Recipes & Articles
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Articles



In Case You Missed March's Meeting

We had to scramble a bit in February when our speaker cancelled at the last minute. The program coordinators put together a family-friendly wine, cheese, and dessert evening. Thank you to Megan Morrone and Christine LeMay for your help in getting things together. The highlight of the evening was our raffle. All the proceeds went to help Isabel Carles and her family. Our biggest prize of the evening, a child’s bike donated by Bici Sport, was won by Michelle Donnelly. Congratulations to all the raffle winners and to all who attended for making it a fun evening.


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Letter from the Editors

Letter from the Editors

There are things that no one tells you when you are expecting your first child. This doesn’t include all of the pregnancy/labor and delivery horror stories that you inevitably get bombarded with along the lines of “I was in labor for three years while trapped in a booth in Denny’s and my water broke on the Queen of England’s ballgown and then my son’s head was so enormous that the waiter had to deliver him using a pair of salad spoons as forceps…” No, we’ve all heard our fair share of those. And of course, everyone will tell you that motherhood is the hardest job in the world, and also the most rewarding. But what no one seems to talk about much is what a tremendous amount of fun it is, and how your children will make you laugh your ass off.

In a completely different vein, we have some great contributions to our “April Fool, April Sage” issue: Christine gives us some excellent food for thought on returning to work; Dr. Woo tells us all about thumb sucking – why it can be bad for your child and how to help them break the habit; Carolynn – and many of you – offer advice on The Nap; Bridget introduces us to the subject of wills and trusts; and Adee shares her thoughts on creating connections and putting down roots. So, a lot of “sage” in the following pages, though there is a peppering of “fool” – just check out some of the great photos sent in by members!

Finally, you may have noticed the note on the front cover stating that there are only three more issues left before we step down as editors. We both have a number of personal commitments that will prevent both of us from carrying on as newsletter editors. And so we really want to encourage you all, if you love the newsletter and want to see it continue beyond June, to please consider stepping forward and taking it on. Like motherhood, it is sometimes hard work, extremely rewarding, lots of fun…and you will laugh your ass off.

Contact us at julesnemo@mac.com or 789-0535 if you would like to know more, or would like to “shadow” a newsletter position.

Vanessa and Jenny


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2007 Human Race by Stacie Sather

Join the PMC at the Human Race on 12 May and run or walk to help raise money for Isabel Carles.

Just imagine the feeling being with other mothers on Mother's Day weekend, as we walk or run to help support one of our own.

Just imagine the sense of peace The Carles Family will have knowing that they will have enough money to pay rent, buy groceries or ice cream for the kids - not having to worry about paying for the medication or other incidental doctor bills that may come up.

Just think what peace $8,000 would be to a family that could really use it right now.

Just think that if 100 people raised $100 what that could accomplish!

Just think about how easy it is to walk 1 mile (3k)...simply an hour or 2 out of your Saturday.

Just think how easy it would be to do...to help another person...just imagine the feeling of coming together to help another family - a family that would help you if you needed it.

It is simple to register...it is free to walk - there is a fee to run ($20 pre-registered or $25 to register the day of), but that fee goes toward your pledges. (Dogs and strollers are welcome - they just ask that those that do so stay at the back of the pack)

It is simple to raise money...talk to your neighbors, co-workers, family and friends. Send a letter - send an email...they can donate online in just minutes.

How to register to walk or run...

***Pledge sheets along with runner registration sheets will be available for pick up at general meetings OR you can contact Stacie Sather at thesathers@comcast.net or Trinity Pokusa at trinitypokusa@yahoo.com to pick one up.

If you can't run, but would like to either donate yourself or ask family and friends to donate you can go to http://humanrace.kintera.org and donate.

On the right hand side of the page there is a list of teams select "more" and find PMC for Isabel and select that. You can donate to a specific person or make a general team donation.

If you have any questions please contact either Stacie Sather or Trinity Pokusa.

Thank you!

For more information regarding the Human Race and race day activities, go to http://www.volunteernow.org/Packet.pdf for a packet.


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In Case You Missed December's Meeting

December's meeting was our annual Cookie Exchange. There was a wide variety of delicious cookies available and we had a sizeable turnout. The meeting also gave members an opportunity to make donations in support of the families adopted by the club for the holidays. We'd like to thank Jenny Christensen and Bici Sport for donating a gift certificate and sport water bottles for the raffle. Bici Sport is located at 139 Kentucky St. Thanks also to member Deanna Byrne who donated several hand-crafted beaded baby bracelets. Deanna wanted members to know that her bracelets are available in any size or color. She plans to donate others throughout the spring so keep an eye out for them at future meetings.


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PMC Message Board Etiquette

I know this topic comes up every year. I just want to remind everyone that the Yahoo Message Board is a great resource. It’s a great way for PMC members to ask for advice, to find and share tips and to get ideas from other members. It is even a great way to sell your baby stuff. I know that I have used it many times for personal advice and to advertise PMC events. If you happen to read something on there that you don’t agree with, remember this, everyone has a right to their own opinions. What might work for one person may not work for another. I don’t want anyone to be discouraged or afraid to post their own opinions. And when you are responding to someone, remember to be careful on what you say and how you word it. If your email can be misinterpreted, it probably will be.

The Message Board is not supervised by anyone. The message board is for open discussions. I do think a lot of the “heated” emails should be kept as personal emails and not to the entire group. I believe “I agree” or “Me too” emails should also be personal emails and not to the entire group. This will help cut down on unnecessary emails. Remember to hit the reply to sender instead of hitting reply to everyone. I also believe we shouldn’t “publicly bash” someone just because you don’t agree with what they are saying or believe in. Remember, everyone has a right to their own opinions. Last but not least, if something is on the there that you don’t like, just delete it.

Some members have talked about dropping out from the Yahoo message board and are now afraid to post anything on there. And some members want to quit the club. I don’t want anyone to quit the message board or the club because of situations like this. We are all adults here so I hope everyone can respect everyone’s emails and opinions. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to contact me. I hope this helps.

Suggested Guidelines for the Yahoo Message Board

A message board is an online discussion group where members can read and write messages to each other.

Communicate clearly

Write clearly when you compose a message. Review your message carefully before clicking Send; typos are confusing. Remember, if your message can be misunderstood, it probably will be.

Refrain from using ALL CAPS

Typing in all capital letters is frowned upon; it's the equivalent of screaming at everyone. It also makes your message more difficult to read.

Don't post meaningless messages

Posting messages that say nothing more than "Me too" is a quick way to irritate other members. If you agree with a posting, either enjoy your consent by yourself or reply with an informative comment about why you agree. Imagine how dull a board would get if it contained nothing but hundreds of "me too'” messages.

Some replies are better sent as e-mail, rather than posted to a board.

Personal messages and especially critical comments are more appropriate when sent directly and privately. There's an E-mail to Author option on every Post Response form; don't forget this option.

There are many, many suggested guidelines everyone should attempt to practice when posting messages on any message board (not just the PMC board). Below are some all of us can and should make an utmost effort to do:

These guidelines are something that we all should consider when using the Yahoo Message Board. If you have any questions or concerns, please feel free to email me at trinitypokusa@yahoo.com.

Thank you.

Trinity Pokusa
PMC President


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PMC's Night of Pampering

Our October general meeting featured representatives from a wide variety of vendors and businesses. We enjoyed refreshments and a fabulous raffle with prizes donated by several of the participants. A special thanks goes to Wendi Baum, Patti Looper, Dena Grunt, Denise Bugbee, Kerri Petersen, Cricket Wade, Emily Eveland, Marisa Sosa-Baca, Kathy Olsen, Jennifer Aguilar, and Sue Hirsch for donating raffle items. Last, but not least, the “Super Women of the Year” award goes to all of the vendors who helped set up and clean up; including those who put some pretty horrendously heavy tables in their place both literally and figuratively. We’ve included the contact information from our vendors so those of you who were unable to make it will know how to reach them:

Jennifer L. Aguilar
BeautiControl Inc.
707.328.3426
Jennifer_aguilar@hotmail.com
www.beautipage.com/spacosmetics

Wendi Baum
Close to My Heart
Scrapbooking and Stamping
707.775.3740
wendibaum@myctmh.com
www.wendibaum.myctmh.com

Denise Bugbee
Baby Boot Camp
707.663.5447
denise.bugbee@babybootcamp.com
www.babybootcamp.com

Emily Eveland
Discovery Toys
707.776.0823
Emilyeveland@comcast.net
www.discoverytoyslink.com/emilyeveland

Sarah Facio-Davis
Pampered Chef Independent Consultant
707.548.2555
Sfdavis918@comcast.net

Claire Gago
Independent USANA Distributor
707.766.2777
www.clairegago.usana.com

Dena Grunt
Monogram Marketplace
Custom embroidery
707.695.6863
www.monogrammarketplace.com

Sue Hirsch
Massage
makodiak@juno.com

Patti Looper
Patti Lou Designs
Custom stationary, greeting cards and art
415.336.7977
www.pattiloudesigns.com

Kathy Olsen
Avon Representative
707.763.9956
Kat.olsen@sbcglobal.net

Kerri Petersen
Melaleuca
kerripetersen@sbcglobal.net

Marisa Sosa-Baca
Tupperware
707.782.0590
marisabaca@my2.tupperware.com
my.tupperware.com/marisabaca

Adee Swanson
Clinical Hypnotherapist
Childbirth preparation and hypnotherapy
707.328.6026
adee.swanson@gmail.com

Cricket Smith Wade
Rock Star Clothing Co.
707.769.0906
Rockstarclothingco.com

Kerlina Vinyard
Mary Kay and
KerlinaKrafts (Knitting)
kerlinakrafts@mac.com or
kerlina@marykay.com
http://web.mac.com/kerlina/iWeb/KerlinaKrafts

Alessia Young
Yoga and Massage
707.778.0690
www.yoginibalance.com

Wendi Olmstead
Petaluma, CA 94954
707.658.0145
wendiolmstead@comcast.net
Creative Memories Consultant
www.mysite.com/wendiolmstead
Tupperware Consultant
www.my.tupperware.com/wendiolmstead
Avon Representative
www.youravon.com/wolmstead


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ACS Relay for Life

As most of you know, in September PMC had formed a team and walked for the ACS Relay for Life. Relay for Life is a 24 hour event where everyone takes shifts and continuously walks around the track. All the money that each team raises goes directly to American Cancer Society. The Petaluma Mothers’ Club raised a total of $3,151.50. For the whole relay $269,443.56 was raised.

Just like most teams we had a fundraiser the day of the event to raise additional funds. The PMC held a bake sale, which is what we do best. LOL!!!! Everyone on the team pitched in and helped each other through the whole twenty-four hours. Those twenty-four hours represented what a cancer patient goes through.

We would like to thank everyone who donated baked goods, who came by to support us and who brought us wonderful treats. We would like to thank everyone who walked in honor and in memory of cancer patients. Also, we want to thank Cat Canto and her playgroup for coming out to walk in honor of their mutual friend, Lisa Cossen. Our thoughts and prayers are with her to battle and conquer her cancer! I would also like to thank Irene Starling for starting the PMC team. If it wasn’t for her, the PMC wouldn’t have participated in the relay this year. Last but not least we would like to send out a special thank you to all of those who donated to the ACS Relay for Life. We couldn’t have done it without you. Also we want to send out a BIG “Woo hoo” to Dale Walsh who walked a total of twenty one miles.

I am so glad that I was a part of this event. Even though I was sore the next day I don’t regret doing it. The whole relay from beginning to end was a very emotional and moving experience. It set off all of these deep feelings that I never knew that I had. The emotions were just overpowering. I felt glad for those who survived and angry and sad for those who have died. I don’t even have the words to describe how it felt. I get chill bumps when I talk about it.

At the beginning of the race it was so beautiful when they released the white doves as the survivors walked the first lap. Then when the sun went down they lit up thousands of luminaries for “in memory” and “in honor” of cancer patients. When I was walking around the track at four in the morning looking at those luminaries that were beautifully decorated out of love by friends and families gave me the strength to continue. Just seeing all of these luminaries that said, “I love you mommy, or I love you daddy, we will miss you” or seeing a little child’s picture on one of the luminaries reminded me why I was doing this.

I always knew that cancer touched a lot of lives but didn’t really realize how much until now. Every year from now on I am hoping that I will be able to walk in the relay. I will walk in memory of my uncle Joe, my husband’s grandfather and for all of those who have been touched by cancer. Like their motto says, “The race isn’t finished until they find a cure.”

Trinity Pokusa
PMC President

Thank you to: Irene Starling and family, Pokusa Family, Sheri Chlebowski and family, Emily Eveland, Lisa Baird, Bridget Mackay, Teri Vilmur, Liane Vella, Dale Walsh, Sue Poggi-West, Stacey Lakritz, Carlin Finke, Anna Fargo, Kaci Sanchez, Kali Sklove


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My First Night Away From My Baby
by Kim Lupsha

As my birthday approached, my husband called me while I was at work, and kindly asked me what I would like to do to celebrate. My first reply was, “Oh, it doesn’t matter – it’s just a Birthday!” Well he wasn’t going to settle for that so I said jokingly, “I want to lie on a raft for hours and just do nothing. I want to sleep in and have no appointments. I want to read a book. I want to just relax!”

“Well, ok,” he said, and we hung up.

The next thing I knew, he sent me an email on my Blackberry telling me we were all booked for Indian Springs in Calistoga for the night and could I arrange for overnight coverage to watch our son! WHAT? He took me seriously! My heart was trembling! I hadn’t been away from my son since he was born! Well, I mean, I work and I’m not with him during the day and from time to time we do have a babysitter at night, but an overnight – was he kidding??? Part of me was really excited – I mean, my wish was coming true! The pool at Indian Springs is Olympic Size and filled with mineral hot springs. I hadn’t been there for years, but remembered being in total Nirvana during my last visit. Relaxation at its finest!

So I did it. I called our wonderful friend and regular nanny Tanya, and she agreed to watch Duke overnight. A part of me wanted her to say she was busy but she immediately said she was thrilled!

The day we were set to go to Indian Springs, Mother Nature cursed me and PMS was setting in. Every little cry from my son that morning made me feel a little guiltier – coupled with the fact he was teething! I was moping around the house. I started to pack as my friend Tanya was on her way and I just couldn’t seem to find anything to wear. Why was I looking so hard in my closet? I was going to be wearing a bathing suit or shorts and t-shirts most of the time, and possibly an outfit to go out to dinner – unless I had it my way and we ordered in (remember, I wanted no appointments). Anyway, it was obvious I was stalling. As Duke went down for his nap I stared longingly into his eyes and told him I loved him and I would see him soon and told him Nanny Tanya was coming over, and bringing her wonderful daughter Anna (who he loves). He looked at me with his big, blue, sleepy eyes. I thought that he was going to sleep and I could just leave – but no: he felt my insecurity and started crying and crying and crying and crying…oh, that put me over the edge. I just about said, “Forget it”, but Tanya assured me everything would be fine. My husband was already in the car with the luggage, packed cooler, engine running, and he was ready to go! I gave Tanya the “what if” list and she was very kind and said, “Call as much as you want – it’s going to be fine!”

As we drove away it was like the old days. The “before Duke” days where we were free to go and do whatever we wanted. We could stop and smell the roses! We could savor every moment of the wine country and stop whenever we wanted without the fear the baby would be getting bored and I’d have to bribe him with cheerios to get us to our destination. I was able to stare at my husband like I used to without singing “the wheels on the bus go round and round”!

So I thought: Okay, this is it. I need to get over my fears and be present with my husband. I need to really let it go and trust it will all be ok. I need to take advantage of relaxing and not listening to a baby monitor, table the “Wheels on the Bus” song for now, turn up the radio and listen to what we want. I need to just enjoy the moment!

Throughout the stay at Indian Springs while lying on the raft for endless hours (and I mean hours) I thought, of course, of Duke. I thought about our life and how Doug and I are so incredibly happy that it’s overwhelming, how I wouldn’t change anything, and how we are the luckiest people in the world. I often dozed off while relaxing, but then – as the Universe does sometimes – a couple got into the pool with their baby boy. He was the same age and same size as Duke and, well, the guilt set in! The couple laughed and played with their little man – I swear I even think I heard the “Wheels on the Bus” song from the mom to the baby. Doug (who was also in total Nirvana) peered over his ESPN Magazine and just smiled at me, and yes, I caught him looking at the baby too.

We were out at the pool for over six hours. I wore my special sun protection clothing so I wouldn’t burn. I read an entire book, although the book was about a woman’s first year with her baby. Hey – at least I read a book! I didn’t call Tanya until 7:30 pm when I knew Duke would (should) be asleep. She said everything was great. He played all day, napped well, ate well and went to sleep with no problem. Hmm…I was like “ok, that is great!” I’m a little (a lot) jealous, but ok, this is good!

Doug and I went to a restaurant for a glass of wine, and then brought dinner back to our cabana. We turned on the TV and laughed and enjoyed each other’s company. We spoke of the baby, of course, but both agreed that it was great to get away and that it is important to take care of ourselves as a couple! It’s challenging to find balance and even when I do have free time I always seem to be doing something for the baby. So this was good. Actually this was great!

I called Tanya in the morning (after another long swim in the pool) and she said Duke was perfect all night. He slept well, in fact, slept until 7:00 am. Wow! He usually gets up at 6:00 am, so this is also a shocker. But – okay, I’m happy!

After an incredible lunch, we drove back in leisurely fashion (though I could hardly wait to see Duke). Once we arrived home there was Duke in his high chair, as happy as can be, enjoying his lunch. He looked at Doug and I, smiled really big, then went right back to his lunch and continued to eat!!!

So where shall Doug and I go next time?


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Mom's Night Out
Help Kids in Our Community

This October and November the Petaluma Mother's Club will join with an organization called Project Night Night to collect special items for kids living in local homeless shelters.

What we're collecting

We'll collect the following new and very gently used items from Mother's Club members and other members of the community:

We will also accept monetary gifts to purchase additional items so that each package contains the same number of items.

When we're collecting

The drive will last from October 24th-November 7th. And then on Tuesday, November 14th, we'll gather to assemble packages for the kids.

Volunteer to help

Thanks to Lori Wagner, Colleen Hunt, Erin Byous, Claire Gago, Sue Hirsch, and Susan Cook for volunteering to help with this project. If anyone else is interested, please send me an e-mail at meg.morrone@gmail.com. I'm especially interested in anyone who has prior experience running fundraising drives in our community. All suggestions are welcome.

Learn more

For more information about Project Night Night, see www.projectnightnight.org

Thanks,
Megan Morrone


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Recommended Reading
Compiled by the PMC Book Club

Are you looking for a great book to read? The PMC’s Book Group has compiled a list of some of our favorites that we thought you all might enjoy. Happy reading!

Atonement by Ian McEwan: A 13 year old witnesses a moment's flirtation between her older sister and the son of a servant. Her incomplete grasp of adult motives brings about a crime that will change all their lives.

A Walk in the Woods by Bill Bryson: Returning to the U.S. after 20 years in England, the author reconnects by hiking the 2100 mile Appalachian Trail. A comical account of a neophyte woodsman learning hard lessons about self-reliance.

Bel Canto by Ann Patchett: During a lavish party, terrorists invade the mansion and set in motion a series of events that irrevocably alters the life of every person involved.

Birds of America by Lorrie Moore: A collection of twelve short stores.

The Cape Ann by Faith Sullivan: Set in a small town during the Depression, the tale features a 6 year old narrator. The Cape Ann is the house that the girl and her mother plan to build some day. Ultimately it symbolizes escape and independence from the husband and father who repeatedly sabotages their dream.

Cold Mountain by Charles Frazier: A Civil War soldier decides he has had enough and walks out, heading across the mountains of North Carolina toward Cold Mountain, where he hopes to reclaim his spiritual homeland and the woman he loves.

The Empress of One by Faith Sullivan: In the late 1930s, a mother disgraces her family by sinking into a depression. The stigma follows her daughter's every move, as she tries to lead a normal life, but the fear that her mother's condition is hereditary haunts her.

The Feast of Love by Charles Baxter: An elegant, yet quirky chronicle of love. By the time Baxter brings his tale of love, loss and redemption to a close, his characters have all found their way to the feast--bittersweet though some of the dishes may be.

Freakonomics: A Rogue Economist Explores the Hidden Side of Everything by Steven Levitt and Stephen Dubner: A fascinating examination of everyday issues such as why crime goes down, how parents can affect their kids, and more. Complex issues are presented in a straight forward, enlightening way.

The Great Gatsby by F. Scott Fitzgerald: A portrait of the Jazz Age in all its decadence and excess. Gatsby's rise to glory and eventual fall from grace becomes a kind of cautionary tale about the American Dream.

Lying Awake by Mark Saltzman: In a Carmelite monastery outside present-day L.A., a Sister experiences visions of such dazzling insight that she is looked upon as a spiritual master. When a doctor reveals that the headaches that accompany the visions may be dangerous, she faces a devastating choice.

Me Talk Pretty One Day by David Sedaris: A hilarious collection of essays.

Midnight in the Garden of Good and Evil by John Berendt: The true story of a murder, yet also a portrait of a Southern city in all its charm and eccentricity.

Music for Torching by A.M. Holmes: A darkly comic novel of a suburban family meltdown.

Operating Instructions by Anne Lamott: A candid diary that captures the comedy and poignancy of the author’s first year as a single mother.

The Tender Bar: A Memoir by J.R. Moehringer: A compelling memoir by Pulitzer Prize winning author.

True Notebooks: A Writer's Year at Juvenile Hall by Mark Salzman: A writer volunteers to teach creative writing at a “high risk” juvenile detention facility.

Waiting by Ha Jin: The story of a man in contemporary China living in two worlds. For more than seventeen years, he has been in love with an educated, modern woman. But back in the traditional world of his home village lives the wife his family chose for him when he was young--a humble and touchingly loyal woman.


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In Case you Missed It: July General Meeting

Our general meeting in July was held just after the intense heat wave subsided a bit. Remember that week? Our guest speaker was financial investment consultant Jim Alexander. Jim gave a PowerPoint presentation that touched on investment planning, tax planning, retirement issues, and paying for children’s education. He stressed the importance of setting goals and finding financial strategies that best fit your family’s needs for the short and long term. We thank Jim for sharing some of the expertise he has acquired during his 20 years of experience in the investment community. The members in attendance that night also enjoyed refreshments and our monthly raffle. Our thanks also go to Diane from L’Bel for donating free bottles of skin toning lotion. We still have some lotion left, so come out to the September meeting on couples communication with guest speaker Mar Ortmann and pick up a free gift.


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Movies in the Park Fundraiser

The PMC had its first fundraiser for this term. In July, we had a wonderful opportunity to set up a bake sale booth at the Movies in the Park. The fundraiser turned out to be a great success and we had so much fun doing it.

We would like to say thank you to all of the volunteers for the overwhelming amount of baked goods that were donated. We had so many baked goods; we didn’t know what to do! It was fantastic to see everyone pitch in and support the PMC. Thank you to Amy Pontius for helping us to coordinate the volunteers.

Also, we would like to thank Sarah Facio-Davis, Heidi Overman, April Citti, Tanya Orsini, Caitlin Lewis and Sheri Chlebowski for working the booth. We couldn’t have done it without you gals. And last but not least, thank you to those who came out to the Movies in the Park to support the PMC. We appreciate it so much. It was a pleasure to see so many familiar faces. I hope everyone is having a great summer, and to see you at our next event.

Trinity Pokusa, PMC President
Rowena Klar, Fundraiser Coordinator

Thank you to the following: Sarah Facio-Davis, Heidi Overman, April Citti, Tanya Orsini, Caitlin Lewis, Sheri Chlebowski, Vanessa Dodge, Dena Grunt, Caitlin Lewis, Amy Pontius, Amanda Mertens, Dana Hyatt Wade, Chrissy Minick, Ariel Rostoni, Krista Mills, Patricia Babischkin, Amy Kemmerer, Christine LeMay, Wendi Baum, Christine Bendik, Renee Nealon, Jamie Smith, Sue Poggi-West, Monica Lynch, Lynne Bender, Kristin Isaacs, Heather Dunmyer, Karna Dawson, Allison Cremona, and Jenny Belforte.


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In Case you Missed It

Our general meeting in June featured holistic nutritionist Dionne Horst, who spoke to us about keeping our diets as healthy as possible. The talk and question and answer period were lively and informative. For those of you who were not able to make it, Dionne recommended that we not give up on all those picky eaters out there and that we continue to introduce new foods while keeping their old standbys on the menu. Dionne also reminded us to buy foods in their most whole form, to buy organic whenever possible, to eat a variety of different colored vegetables and fruits, and to eat produce in season for optimum nutrition. Other simple ways of making foods more nutritious included adding a small amount of molasses to smoothies and dropping a strip of dried sea vegetables into beans or soup as they cook. Most importantly Dionne advised us to do the best we can and not to stress out about it too much!

The following is a recipe for Sesame Seed Milk that was given out at the meeting. It’s great for those looking for alternatives to dairy or for anyone looking for healthy beverage options for their kids:

Use as you would milk and enjoy all the benefits of calcium, protein, essential fatty acids, and live enzymes.


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Volunteer Opportunities at COTS

Hello, my name is Lyn Van Tighem and I'm a former PMC member. I used to write a column for the PMC newsletter called, Serving Our Community, highlighting non-profit service organizations in the Petaluma area. That's how I came to learn about COTS, Committee On The Shelterless, where I'm now working part-time as Volunteer Coordinator.

COTS is currently in need of more volunteers for two programs, both of which would be ideal for rotating among playgroup members, and can be a great way to introduce young children to the concept of volunteering and helping out in the community. If either of the volunteer opportunities described below is of interest to you, please contact me at 765-6530 Ext. 111, or volunteers@cots-homeless.org. Thank you!

Preparing Meals

The COTS Kids First program is a 12-week course offered to COTS families transitioning out of homelessness. It is designed to blend child development information with positive parenting strategies to help parents create a child centered family environment that nurtures their children's resiliency. Each class begins with a shared meal, provided by volunteers, which usually includes a hearty high-protein main dish (lasagna, tuna casserole, etc.), bread, and a side vegetable or salad, enough to feed 30 people (adults and children). We are seeking volunteers to provide the meal one night a week.

Delievering Donated Food Items

The COTS Food For Families program provides weekly emergency food delivery to over 200 very low income seniors and families in Petaluma. The program is in need of more volunteer drivers to deliver the boxes of donated food on Saturday mornings. Drivers arrive at the Petaluma Kitchen on Payran Street between 9:00 and 10:00, load boxes of food into their vehicles, deliver the boxes to the homes on their route, and return to the Kitchen with the empty boxes. All this takes between 45 minutes and an hour and a half, depending on how many families are on the route.


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PMC Fall Carnival 2005

We had a great turnout at our Annual Fall Carnival even though it turned out to be the hottest day of the month. We hope everyone enjoyed themselves. It looks like all of the booths, pony rides, the jumpy houses, Matthew the DJ from Dansations, the caricaturist, and the costume contest were big hits.

Congratulations to all of our winners of the costume contest and thank you to everyone who signed up to be in it. There were some really cute costumes, which made it so hard to choose the winners. Also we would like to give a special thank you to Patti Looper and Christine Bendik for helping us judge the costume contest.

We would like to thank all of our volunteers: PMC members who volunteered to help with the welcome/ticket table and the bake sale, the Girl Scouts, the dads who helped haul hay bales and a special thank you to all of the playgroups who volunteered to do a booth. You have outdone yourselves this year, as the booths were amazing. We also would like to thank Clover for donating the ice-cream; Hunt and Behrens Inc. for donating the hay bales; Safeway; the Boulevard Cinemas in Petaluma; Hobbytown; Charles M. Schultz Museum for all of the wonderful Snoopy prizes; Redwood Empire Gymnastics; The Rotary Club; Cold Stone and Jungle Vibes. And last but not least we would like to thank everyone who came to the Fall Carnival. We couldn't have done it without you.

The Event Coordinators,
Trinity Pokusa
Amy Pontius
Heidi Overman

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Monkey Bucks

Hi everyone! In case you were wondering what would happen if you threw a party, and almost no one came, read on:

Fellow PMC member Jen showed up at my place with her daughter, Eva, for our first Monkey Bucks Tea. They brought zucchini-bread muffins and smiles. My son Cody ran to Eva to greet her in his vivacious way and took her right into the family room to play Legos. What a great playdate it was!

Monkey Bucks is a baby-sitting co-op for PMC parents, and the teas are designed to help each each other find sitters or find out who else, beside yourself, would like to swap kids either regularly or occasionally. The first Tea was quite profitable in that one of the mothers kindly organized a list of local junior and senior high school kids that are interested in babysitting or being mother’s helpers. (I have a couple copies of this list that I can fax or mail to anyone who is interested.)

These teas are pot luck, and I hire babysitters to watch the kids so that the parents can feel free to share ideas on how else Monkey Bucks can benefit parents and enjoy an impromptu, professional magic show when my husband has time to offer one.

I hope to meet more of you at the next Monkey Bucks Tea. Please see the calendar for the next date. Feel free to bring family and/or friends but do RSVP so that I know how many sitters to hire.

Thanks very much for reading.
Sue Hirsch

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Always Be Prepared
by Shawn Thomas

In light of the recent events, we thought it important for people to be prepared in case disaster ever strikes our part of the world. Below you will find suggestions from "Preparing for Disaster," which was developed by the American Red Cross and the Department of Homeland Security, Federal Emergency Management Agency, www.redcross.org.

There are six basics you should stock for your home: water, food, first aid supplies, clothing and bedding, tools and emergency supplies, and special items. Keep the items that you would most likely need during an evacuation in an easy-to carry container; suggested items are marked with an asterisk(*). Possible containers include a large, covered trash container, a camping backpack, or a duffle bag.

Water Store water in plastic containers such as soft drink bottles. Avoid using containers that will decompose or break, such as milk cartons or glass bottles. A normally active person needs to drink at least two quarts of water each day. Hot environments and intense physical activity can double that amount. Children, nursing mothers, and ill people will need more. Store one gallon of water per person per day. Keep at least a three-day supply of water per person (two quarts for drinking, two quarts for each person in your household for food preparation/sanitation).*

Food Store at least a three-day supply of non-perishable food. Select foods that require no refrigeration, preparation or cooking, and little or no water. If you must heat food, pack a can of sterno. Select food items that are compact and lightweight.

Include a selection of the following foods in your Disaster Supplies Kit:
Store your kit in a convenient place known to all family members. Keep a smaller version of the supplies kit in the trunk of your car. Keep items in airtight plastic bags. Change your stored water supply every six months so it stays fresh. Replace your stored food every six months. Re-think your kit and family needs at least once a year. Replace batteries, update clothes, etc. Ask your physician or pharmacist about storing prescription medications.


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In Search of the Perfect Pumpkin

Looking for that perfect pumpkin? Want to get lost in a maze of corn? Or climb a hay bale pyramid? Want to take your family on a hayride? Or have a picnic among the animals? If you said yes to any of these things, you can find what you are looking for at any of the area pumpkin patches! Below is a listing of pumpkin patches that may provide you with what you are looking for…

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Mommy Movies are Back (for a two month trial run)

When: the First Saturday of the Month (trial for Oct. and Nov.)
Where: Petaluma Cinema West
What: movie shown with higher lighting and lower sound.
Time: 10:00AM
Price: Normal Matinee admission ($6.50 children under 3 are free)

October 1st Showing:
Corpse Bride and March of the Penguins

November 5th Showing:
Chicken Little and Shop Girl

If attendance is sufficient, Mommy Movies will continue running the first Saturday of Every Month! So, mark your calendars, buy your tickets and we will see you there.

These special show times will be listed on the Boulevard Cinema's web site www.cinemawest.com Advance tickets will be available to be purchased through the website for all performances.

Please direct any questions to Wendi Olmstead (707) 658-0145 or wendiolmstead@comcast.net, as your Mommy Movie Contact. If she cannot answer...she will find out for you.

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PMC Membership Directory Coming Soon!

Are you searching for Tupperware or Avon? Perhaps you misplaced the phone number of a playgroup pal or you would like to get in touch with that friendly mom you met at the BBQ? At last, an easy way to contact all of your PMC friends! The directory will include member name, email, phone number and home business details of all members who have chosen to participate. Nearly every PMC member has chosen to be listed in the directory, so it will be a comprehensive resource for our members.

The directory will be emailed to all members in mid-October. A revised version will be available each month as new members join.

Please note that the sole purpose of this directory is to provide a convenient resource for our members. This directory is for club use only and is not to be used in any other way.

Please contact our Database Guru, Amy Kemmerer, at amykemmerer@yahoo.com or 776-0958 if you have any questions. We hope you enjoy this new resource!
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A More Resourceful Resource Guide

Many of you may not be aware of a great source of information right at your fingertips - the Resource Guide on the PMC website. The Resource Guide lists a variety of community-based and child- or pregnancy-related resources, from preschools to summaries of past playgroup excursions to entertainment ideas for your child's birthday party. We hope to keep this Guide as current and informative as we possibly can.

We are asking for your help to enhance a section of the Guide: PMC members or people in their household who own a business can choose to be listed in the Resource Guide. This may eliminate some Topica messages about who sells what and whose husband owns a landscaping company. Plus, it provides some free advertising as a benefit of your PMC membership! If you or someone in your household own a business (this includes independent sales representatives for Avon, Tupperware, Creative Memories, etc.) and would like to be listed, please send details to Becky Schuerman Choi at bschuerman@juno.com.

We will try to keep up with all the great suggestions that are discussed on Topica and add them to the Resource Guide. We would also like to unearth more of your favorite, lesser-known excursion destinations. We would love to hear from you! Please send any comments or suggestions to Becky or Krista Mills krista.mills@comcast.net.

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Introducing the PMC's New Online Discussion Group

The PMC Board has unanimously agreed to move the PMC's online group from Topica to Yahoo Groups, due to ongoing technical difficulties with our current discussion list. For the past several months, we have had many problems with our current list, including members being involuntarily unsubscribed, the provider's inability to deliver emails to several different ISPs, members being unable to access the website and archived messages, and even members who have been unable to subscribe to the group despite repeated attempts. Several local mothers' clubs and PMC members have had positive experiences using Yahoo Groups. Yahoo Groups offers all of the features found on Topica, plus many additional features including:

We expect the transition to go very smoothly. On October 15th, all members will receive an email invitation to join the new Yahoo Group. Once you accept your invitation to join the PMC's Yahoo Group, go ahead and start using the Yahoo Group in the same way you would use Topica. No need to worry about unsubscribing from the Topica list. The Topica forum will be closed on November 1st.

For those of you not currently subscribed to Topica, it's an online forum for PMC members to seek and share advice, discuss issues important to families, and learn more about community and club events. No charge, no spam and it's a great resource. You can receive individual emails, one daily digest of the emails posted by members, or select a "no email" option to read posted messages on the website at your convenience. Go ahead and give it a try. It's simple to unsubscribe if you change your mind.

Please contact our Database Guru, Amy Kemmerer, at amykemmerer@yahoo.com or 776-0958 if you have any questions.

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New Orleans Thank You!
by Erin McCallister Byous

As I was headed into work Sunday, September 4th, I had a good idea my assignment for the day would involve covering the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. Of course, news reporters all over the country are focused in on displaced families arriving by the dozens into new cities.

Like other tragedies I've covered (most of them on a much smaller scale), I pulled out my pen and notebook and started listening. This time I was listening to Armand Clark, his wife Shannon, their four kids and two nieces describe what it was like to be in New Orleans after the storm hit. Eight-year-old Kardale said he watched babies drown and others die because they were so hot inside the Superdome … a little boy is telling me he saw babies (many of them) die. Choking back tears, Shannon wanted to know where the rest of her family was (she hadn’t seen her mom since Katrina wiped her city away).

The stories kept coming … and I kept listening.

The family managed to find a ride to Houston where they were turned away at the Astrodome. Armand's cousin in Oakland somehow scraped together enough money to pay the family’s way to the Bay Area on a Greyhound bus. After 5 days of trying to find safe shelter, wading through dirty water and protecting themselves from the chaos and violence Katrina brought with her … the family finally landed at the Red Cross in Oakland. They received hotel vouchers (for 14 days), a warm meal and counseling.

I told their story.
I handed them all the cash I had in my wallet (27 dollars).
Then ... I went home.

As I was driving to my house in Petaluma, I felt terrible. My heart was broken and then guilt started to settle in. What a life I have ... a house, food, clothes, and most importantly, I know were my family is. I brainstormed. What do I have in my house that this family could use right now? Who do I know that may have things in their homes? Then it occurred to me … the Petaluma Mothers’ Club. What group of people could be more helpful? I was certain other moms probably had clothes their kids grew out of and would be willing to donate those clothes to these 6 kids. And, while we’re at it, why not get clothes for Armand, Shannon also? When I got home, I put out an email on Topica. In the subject line I wrote: "In Need of Help." Within minutes, the emails began pouring in. Every time I turned on the computer, I had 15 more messages waiting for me. It appeared moms all over Petaluma had wanted to help Katrina victims, but were waiting for the right opportunity. This was it. I was asked about sizes. I put out another email with more specific information. Three days later, my garage was completely full. I had clothes, toys, backpacks, shoes, bedding, towels and food.

My husband and I delivered it to the hotel in Oakland where the family was staying for the time being. Armand and Shannon were overwhelmed looking through the bags. One by one, they dug into each duffle bag and suitcase. Armand, shaking his head in disbelief said, “I think we have more clothes than we did in New Orleans”.

An effort to get this family some supplies turned into something bigger than I imagined. Soon, I was getting calls from other hurricane victims landing in the Bay Area. They also needed help. I put out more emails on Topica. I got more replies. Again, my garage was full. A woman from the Unitarian Church in Petaluma called saying she heard I was gathering donations and had lots of furniture for families I wrote about who were moving into temporary housing in Richmond. A teenager from Rohnert Park asked her friends at school for donations. My husband made another trip … this time to Richmond. He wasn’t alone. Along with him, several pick-ups and cars filled with donations. Driving them, members of the Unitarian Church and PMC moms. A couple of them brought their husbands along. Together, they all made a massive delivery to New Orleans families who really needed help. And that wouldn’t be the end of it.

More donations came in.
We found out about other families.
We made more deliveries.

We were able to do that because of the Petaluma Mothers' Club. I am glad to be associated with the women reading this newsletter. You are compassionate and caring people who step up to the plate when others need your help. I am so very proud to be a part of this group.

Sincerely,
Erin McCallister Byous

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