Memphis Parent February 2020 by Contemporary Media

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M E M P H I S PA R E N T.C O M

F R E E

MARTHEUS AND JANET WADE: GRAPHIC ARTISTS EXTRAORDINAIRE

P L U S

LIFE LESSONS AT CAMP

DENTAL HEALTH HABITS

KEEPING THE SPARK

POSTPARTUM AWARENESS

F E B R UA RY 2020

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BOOK YOUR PACK AGE TODAY AT SOUNDWAVESGO.COM

F E B R UA R Y

OVERNIGHT SUMMER CAMPS

2020

C O V E R S TO R Y

Janet and Martheus Wade: graphic artists extraordinaire. by Jesse Davis

ON THE COVER: Janet, Anakin, and Martheus Wade

LIFE LESSONS

SLEEP-AWAY CAMP SUCCESS Six tips to ensure a positive experience.

Things kids learn at overnight camp.

by Christa Melnyk Hines

by Janeen Lewis

INTERCEPTING DEPRESSION The emotional stakes of sports can affect young athletes.

KEEPING THE SPARK Ways to rekindle the flames in your relationship.

by Samuel X. Cicci

by Jamie Lober D E PA R TM E N T S

SWIMMING LESSONS

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2020

Year ‘round in our HEATED indoor pool!

We have swim packages for all age groups. SAVE MONEY! We have small class ratios... Do you need SPECIALTY Training? We are definitely the place for you! CALL SWIM SCHOOLS (Ms Deborah) 901.763.3483 Gift Cards make great gifts!

999 South Yates, Memphis, TN 901-763-3483 www.diveshop1.com 4

10 Health Matters 6 901 Fun Black History Month, Prepare for a lifetime of good dental health Valentine’s crafts, and more 20 Outstanding Teacher Celebrating unsung 8 Dear Teacher How much routine do heroes students need?

OUR STAFF

Editor Shara Clark Art Director Bryan Rollins Advertising Art Director Christopher Myers Graphic Designer Rachel Li Account Executive Michelle Musolf Production Operations Director Margie Neal Calendar Editor Meena Viswanathan Social Media Coordinator Kalena Matthews

STATEMENT OF PURPOSE

Memphis Parent strives to provide information of value to all who are invested in our children’s future.

YOU ARE NOT ALONE Mrs. Germantown International on postpartum depression.

by Carrie Schween

22 Dad Libs One dad’s adventures with a mischievous rescue dog 26 Calendar and Events Family-friendly fun all month long

Memphis Parent is published by Contemporary Media, Inc. CEO Anna Traverse Fogle Director of Business Development Jeffrey A. Goldberg Editorial Director Bruce VanWyngarden Special Projects Director Molly Willmott Distribution Manager Carrie O’Guin Controller Ashley Haeger Digital Services Director Kristin Pawlowski Staff Writer Julia Baker P.O. Box 1738, Memphis, TN 38101 p: 901.521.9000 • f: 901.521.0129 Send advertising queries to: margie@memphisparent.com

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E D I TO R ’ S

N OT E

P.S. WE LOVE YOU I L L U S T R AT I O N © O N Y X P R J | D R E A M S T I M E . C O M

Love exists in many forms: the love you have for yourself, your husband or wife, your children, your mother and father, your family and friends. But I think it’s important, too, to have some degree of love for the stranger standing in line behind you at the grocery store or passing on the street. And love for animals, your own and those waiting at the shelter to be adopted. A love for nature, the fallen leaves, the morning mist, and even the gray, rainy days. Living life with love at the forefront has the power to transform your days — the power to place you in the present moment, to feel empathy and compassion, to better be able to lift up and support those around you, to better understand that we humans all suffer at times and that a smile or kind word can turn around a notso-great day. I say this not at all to diminish the importance of giving love to those closest to you. That’s love of a different kind. If you’re married or in a relationship, that’s the bond that carries you through each day. That type of love morphs over time — from stars-in-your-eyes, melty-heart love to love that looks like helping out with dishes, watching the kids for a few hours so your partner can have some “me time,” or just listening to them vent when they’ve had a rough day. If your romantic love doesn’t always feel so romantic, give “Keeping the Spark” (page 24) a read. In that story, local relationship counselors weigh in on ways to fan the flames. If you’re alone this Valentine’s Day, remember that you aren’t actually alone. Remember that love doesn’t always look like a heart-shaped box of chocolates or a red rose. It can be a slobbery kiss from your dog, a laugh shared with a stranger in an elevator, an appreciation of a cloudless, starry night, or an acceptance of yourself just the way you are. There’s a lot of love in this world — you just have to be willing to give and receive it.

Shara Clark

Editor

Laurelwood Shopping Center 389 Perkins Ext 901.685.8417 @cottontailsmemphis @cotton.tails1

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February is the month of love. And while greeting card companies push romantic love this month, I urge you all to look at things a little differently. Sure, it’s nice to receive cards, chocolates, and flowers from a partner, and to give those types of gifts, but perhaps love should not just be reserved for the handful of close people in your life or for one Hallmark-card holiday a year.

#901 F U N

Love. Think. Live.

Black History Month, Valentine’s crafts, and more!

SUNDAY

FAMILY METALSMITHING

The Metal Museum hosts this class on Sunday, February 2nd, from 2 to 4 p.m., where families can cast pewter Valentine keepsakes. Get an introduction to pewter casting techniques and create your own custom, take-home piece. $30/family. Reservations required. Call 774-6380 for details.

TUESDAY

SEE. TOUCH. ASK. EXPLORE.

The Stax Museum of American Soul Music hosts its Tuesdays at S.T.A.X. event with various themes each week. Explore with handson activities, objects from the archive on display, and soulful sounds. Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m. Feb. 4th: Acoustics and Acrostics. Feb. 11th: Fresh on the Zine. Feb. 18th: Integration, Segregation, and Crossover Success. Feb. 25th: (Black) History in the Making. Free admission for Shelby County residents from 1 to 5 p.m. Visit staxmuseum.com for details.

SUNDAY

HARRIET TUBMAN

Accomplished storyteller Janice Curtis Greene — Janice the Griot — will recount the historic and courageous tales of freedom as Harriet Tubman at the Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center. Sunday, February 9th, 2:30-4 p.m. Ages 6 and up. $15/adult. $10/ child. Call 385-5599 for more information.

SUNDAY

YOUTH VILLAGES 31ST ANNUAL SOUP SUNDAY

This annual fundraiser features soups, bread, and desserts from more than 50 Memphis restaurants and caterers. Kids Zone includes a magic show, Oreo-stacking contest, and appearance from team mascots. FedExForum, 11 a.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, February 23rd. $20/adult. $10/child ages 6-12. Free for children ages 5 and under. $50 for Family Pack (for four attendees). Visit youthvillages.org for details.

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2020

Love. Think. Live. These three words are

the heart of our mission at Harding Academy. We teach students to love others as Christ loves them, to think creatively and learn with open minds, and to live courageously to the glory of God. Schedule a tour today to see that mission in action.

Schedule a tour

901-767-4494 | hardinglions.org/visit 18 mos.–Jr. K (East Memphis & Cordova) Sr. K–Grade 12 (East Memphis) 6

SATURDAY

MEMPHIS PARENT CAMP EXPO

Join us at the Pink Palace Museum on Saturday, February 29th, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. We’re gathering together a variety of local and regional camps to help you plan! Camps are geared for children aged preschool to 18 years. Families will have the opportunity to meet face-to-face with camp staff, watch informational videos, and pick up take-home materials for planning spring, summer, and fall kids’ camps. Free to attend. Visit memphisparentcampexpo.com for a current list of participating camps and more information.

See if you qualify for a $7,000 School Choice state-funded scholarship! Tennessee Education Savings Accounts are now available for the 2020–2021 school year What is an Education Savings Account (ESA)? ESAs are state-funded scholarships that put parents in control of their children’s education. ESAs can be used on private school tuition, tutoring, instructional materials, uniforms, transportation, and other approved expenses.

LIMITED SCHOLARSHIPS AVAILABLE! See if you qualify at tnesa.org/eligibility

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Visit www.tnesa.org to learn more about Tennessee’s ESA program or contact jdower@federationforchildren.org

D E A R

T E AC H E R

HOW MUCH ROUTINE DO STUDENTS NEED?

By Marge Eberts & Peggy Gisler

How much routine should we have in our family on school days? I don’t want every minute of the day to be organized for our children. — For Some Routine There are no hard and fast rules about how much routine children should have during the school year. Routines should reflect each child’s personality and needs. For example, a child with ADHD will definitely profit from quite a bit of structure while one who seems to have a built-in organizer can function with far fewer routines. There is a need to have some routines in every home just to make things function smoothly. This should include a morning routine that will have a time for getting up and dressed, eating, and for leaving the home with everything needed for school. Most homes also have homework and bedtime routines to give a sameness to every day. No routine should cover every minute of the day. Free time needs to be part of every routine. Basic routines need to be written out and displayed. Pictures can be used for young children. But there is another thing about routines — they need to be flexible. They will change as activities are added or eliminated. When routines are disrupted by outside events, such as a traffic jam, dinner, or homework projects, they can be adjusted. To help some children follow routines, especially early morning ones, a kitchen timer can be used to show when a particular activity should begin or end. Rewards can also be used if they are an effective tool in encouraging children to follow routines. Finally, if a routine doesn’t seem to be working, change it. And the older your children get, the more input you should get from them.

F F E E B B R R U UA A R RY Y

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Parents should send questions and comments to dearteacher@dearteacher.com or to the Dear Teacher website. ©Compass Syndicate Corporation, 2020

TIME TO EVALUATE CHILDREN’S PROGRESS IN SCHOOL Parents: Your children are slightly more than halfway through the school year. Take the time now to evaluate how they are doing. If they are having problems in any of their classes, there is still plenty of time to turn things around. Begin by talking to their teachers. Find out exactly what help is needed to get them on track and where it will be available — school, tutoring, or a learning center.

Help your child see clearer in 2020!

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The more students can combine what theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re learning, the bigger the picture can be. Thatâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s why at Lausanne our teachers find new, engaging ways to introduce concepts to our students that will leave a lasting impression.

F E AT U R E

ALL SMILES Prepare for a lifetime of good dental health. by Jamie Lober

February is national children’s dental health month, so there is no better time to talk about our precious teeth.

BRUSH AND FLOSS PROPERLY Take the time to learn how to brush the right way. Dr. Timothy Kutas of Kutas Dentistry recommends using a soft to medium toothbrush and to gently move it in a circular motion. You want to be sure it has the ADA Seal of Acceptance, which is the gold standard for toothbrush quality. Watching yourself in the mirror can help to ensure that you do not miss any spots. When your child is very little, it is a good idea to supervise him to see that he removes all of the plaque.

The American Dental Association suggests that families replace their toothbrushes every three to four months so they do the best job possible of cleaning the teeth. Kutas says that periodontal disease usually appears between the teeth where the toothbrush cannot reach, which makes flossing essential. EAT RIGHT Calcium and vitamin D help to build strong teeth. Good sources include milk, yogurt, cheese, salmon, broccoli, and orange juice. Vitamin C, found in potatoes and leafy greens, can strengthen gums and protect you from gum disease. Antioxidants found in fruits and vegetables boost immunity and protect teeth and gums as well. Avoid problem foods and drinks like sugary beverages, especially before bedtime. The American Academy of Pediatrics warns that anything with sticky sugar, like toffee, gum, caramel, and dried fruit can harm the teeth. BE SAFE AT PLAY Many preventable dental issues come from not being properly protected

while playing sports or doing recreational activities. For baseball and softball, a face protector is required. Properly fitted mouth guards should always be worn when playing any sport that poses a risk for injury. SCHEDULE DENTAL CHECKUPS It is a common misconception that you should only see the dentist if you are in pain or suspect something is wrong. A routine dental cleaning and exam should be scheduled at least twice a year. Both the American Academy of Pediatrics and the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommend that all kids see a pediatric dentist and establish a dental home before age 1. You want to be sure the dentist is a member of the American Dental Association and that the office is convenient to your home and has hours that are compatible with you. If you have dental benefits, you may want to first check to see who is in your network. Do not be afraid to schedule a time for a consultation where you can simply meet the dentist and talk about your dental history before committing to an appointment. Some people may need to see the dentist more often if

they are undergoing orthodontic treatment, have gum disease, or are a higher-risk patient. Bellano Dental Health says that you cannot always see or feel problems as they are happening. However, by visiting a dentist twice a year you can identify problems before they grow and become more serious. SAVE YOUR SMILE Remember that your family, dentist, and pediatrician are all partners in achieving optimal dental health. Families should find it comforting to know that the field of dentistry has experienced many advances over the years in terms of diagnostics and treatments, which make care more comfortable than before. The American Dental Association says that your mouth is a window into the health of your body, as it can show signs of nutritional deficiencies or general infection. Often, diseases first become evident because of oral problems. When you have an action plan for how to take care of yourself and align with good team members, you will be prepared for a lifetime of good dental health and oral hygiene. 

Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics. 10

I L L U S T R AT I O N © K S E N I A L O G I N O V S K I K H | D R E A M S T I M E . C O M

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2020

Memphis parents may be surprised to learn that tooth decay is one of the most common health problems in the United States. Tennessee has actually been reported to rank 38th in the nation for dental health, so we have work to do. Forming good habits starting at an early age can have a measurable impact on your long-term dental wellness. Blue Cross Blue Shield found that dental health plays a key role in someone’s self-esteem and quality of life and that decay is linked to chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, dementia, and obesity.

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Learn, and Talk.

E A CHILD THE GIFT OF SOUND A CHILD THE GIFT OF SOUND GIVE A CHILD THE GIFT OF SOUND www.mosdkids.org

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F E AT U R E

LIFE LESSONS

Things kids learn at overnight camp. by Janeen Lewis

Ask anyone who has ever been to overnight camp about his or her experience, and you will hear endless tales of comradery, cabin mates, and campfires.

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2020

Many times campers will say overnight camp was the first time they rode a horse or shot a bow and arrow or ﬂew down a zip line. It’s where they learned to make their beds and keep their belongings tidy in cramped quarters. With the perfect blend of adventure and responsibility, camp teaches kids valuable lessons they can use for the rest of their lives. If you send your child to overnight camp, here are some life lessons they are likely to learn. H OW T O CO M M U N I C AT E FACE-TO-FACE Tom Rosenberg, President and Chief Executive Officer of the American Camp Association, says today’s youth spends so much time on technology, that learning to communicate face-toface with peers is important. He quotes a Pew Research Center study that says “ just 25 percent of teens spend time with friends in person outside of school on a regular basis.” In light of that statistic, overnight camp is a good place to get kids to socialize without technology. “About 90

percent of camps don’t allow kids to have computers or cell phones,” says Rosenberg. “In general, camps are an oasis for human-powered socialization.” HOW TO BE INDEPENDENT For many children, camp is the first time they are away from parents and the familiarity of home. While this may cause some homesickness, it also gives children an opportunity to overcome being homesick. And without parents there, children learn to pick up after themselves and keep up with their things. Overnight camp can also prepare students for independence in their next steps in life, like trips abroad and college. HOW TO BE A PART OF COMMUNITY LIVING Sometimes it’s hard to live with other people, especially if other people drape their clothes over your bed or hog the shower. And it’s not like kids can escape to their own room when they are at summer camp because everyone

bunks together in one cabin. But kids can learn to work out differences they may have about how they share their living spaces, and it’s more fun for campers to do the cabin chores together than alone. As they grow up, kids have to learn to work in groups in their communities. “That cabin group has community building at its core,” says Rosenberg. HOW TO EMBRACE DIVERSITY Children who go to camp meet other campers from all over the country. They meet kids from different socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds. In a study conducted by Philliber Research Associates and the American Camp Association, 94 percent of campers said, “Camp helped me get to know other campers who were different from me.” Rosenberg says this is important for kids in the 21st century. “Making new friends is an essential skill kids are going to need to have.” HOW TO OVERCOME FEARS Going to camp takes kids out of their normal day-to-day setting and gives them a chance to try things they might not try when they are at home. In the Philliber study, 74 percent of the kids

surveyed said, “At camp, I did things I was afraid to do at first.” Children may feel more comfortable taking a risk around new acquaintances than they do under the watchful eye of their parents, siblings, or school peers. If they are trying an activity they have never tried before, they may feel encouraged by staff or counselors who are there to support and guide them. HOW TO BECOME RESILIENT Camp life doesn’t always go as planned, and kids learn to adapt and move with what’s happening around them. Camp-goers also grow more resilient from trying again when they fail, according to Rosenberg. “Part of growing up is learning that you are not always going to be successful. Sometimes campers fail and counselors help them try again,” says Rosenberg. “Camp is a safe place to make mistakes.” Going to overnight camp benefits kids in many ways. It provides a place where kids can get out of their daily setting and have new adventures, meet new people, and learn new skills. And while they are doing all of those things, they will probably learn a few life lessons that will stay with them forever. 

Janeen Lewis is a freelance journalist and mom to Andrew and Gracie. Some of her fondest memories happened at overnight camp. 12

SLEEP-AWAY CAMP SUCCESS Six tips to ensure a positive experience.

by Christa Melnyk Hines

Considering a sleep-away camp for your child this summer? Here are few tips to make the experience an adventure they’ll remember long after the campfire songs are mere echoes in their ears. Determine readiness. Overnight camps vary in size, scope, and age, welcoming campers anywhere between the ages 6 and 19. Most kids are ready for an overnight camp by age 8 or 9. Whether or not a child is ready for overnight camp depends on their personality and physical and emotional maturity. Kristina Marchuk, mom of three, says her oldest daughter Katelyn, 14, went to her first overnight, a week-long Girl Scouts camp, when she was 11, and her younger daughter Alyssa, 6, a Daisy in the Girl Scouts, will go to her first overnight camp this summer. Try day camps to help you introduce your youngster to the camp experience. Marchuk says sleepovers with grandparents and occasional overnights with their Girl Scout troops also helped her daughters prepare for extended sleep-away camps. Consider the length of the camp. Because Alyssa is younger and hasn’t spent many nights away from home without at least big sister present, Marchuk chose a shorter three-day camp to see how she does. “I’m more nervous about Alyssa. She’s going into second grade and will only be 7 by the summer,”

Marchuk says. “I’m glad they offer that option to get the kids acclimated to spending time away from parents.” Trish Barnes, the Executive Women’s Director and K-2 Women’s Director at Camp Kanakuk, and a mom of three children and three step-children ranging in age from 12 to 30, says choosing the right duration of camp definitely depends on the child and your goals. “The first year I sent my oldest son just for a week because I knew two weeks or a month would have been tough on him. A week would have been out of his comfort zone, but not so overwhelming where it would spin him into anxiety,” Barnes says. “My middle son? He was the complete polar opposite. He was ready to go for a month right off the bat.” Set goals. Besides learning new skills, children learn how to collaborate and live in community while at camp, gaining self-confidence and independence through problem-solving and teamwork. “The camping world is an unbelievable place where you can help your kids learn how to face disappoint-

ments, have a voice, make new friends or just get outside their comfort zone and try something new in a very safe environment,” Barnes says, who has worked at Kanakuk for 26 summers. “It’s such a great accomplishment for a kid to get to do that away from home — so they know they accomplished that on their own.” Include your child in deciding on a camp. Maybe they wish to hone a specific interest, like a sport they enjoy, or want to try a variety of new activities, such as canoeing, horseback riding, or zip lining. Research the camp. Do you want a faith-based camp or a more secular type of environment? Where is the camp located? Are you seeking a camp that offers a smattering of activities or one that specializes in one of your child’s interests. like art, music, or a specific sport? Look at the camp website. Talk to other parents for referrals. Visit the camp and talk to the camp director. Ask about counselor to camper ratios, safety policies, and how the camp manages situations like homesickness, anxiety, and medical situations. And listen to your intuition. Does the environment feel safe and well-organized? Is the staff kind, attentive, and nurturing? Manage expectations. Explain to your child that they need to stick with the camp through its duration. By seeing things through to the end, they will grow more independent in their ability to make decisions and more resilient to adversity and discomfort, which will prove invaluable as they grow into adulthood. “Coming home is not an option. Let them know that the expectation is that they are going to finish because once you start something, you want to finish it. The only reason you wouldn’t finish something is because you are in harm’s way or it’s going to be ethically, morally bad for you,” Barnes says. Arrive prepared. Together with your child, spend time gathering everything they’ll need at camp. Through diligent research, careful preparation, and a positive attitude, you’ll lower any anxiety they may have and set them up for a successful sleep-away camp experience. 

Christa Melnyk Hines is a nationally published freelance journalist. She and her husband are the parents of two happy camper sons and a menagerie of pets. Christa is the author of Happy, Healthy & Hyperconnected: Raise a Thoughtful Communicator in the Digital World.

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YOUR KIDS WILL LEARN HOW TO FACE DISAPPOINTMENTS, HAVE A VOICE, MAKE NEW FRIENDS, OR JUST GET OUT OF THEIR COMFORT ZONE.

F E AT U R E

INTERCEPTING DEPRESSION The emotional stakes of sports can affect young athletes.

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By Samuel X. Cicci

There isn’t much of a downside for kids joining organized sports at a young age. It’s a great way for them to get exercise in a fun guise, and also a chance for them to meet and socialize with others their age. And while many recreational leagues are geared toward fun and inclusion, the thrill of victory can sweep up the best of us, which goes a long way to explaining why generally, over 50 percent of kids in the United States participate in team sports.

But as they get older, the atmosphere in the sports world begins to change. The focus in many programs shifts to ‘win at all costs,’ with athlete welfare just a secondary priority. Some young athletes are unable to cope with increased strain and pressure, leading to an increased risk of depression and other mental health disorders. With that in mind, it’s important to be able to recognize when a young athlete is struggling. While there’s more attention than ever on mental health, the sports world still lags behind when it comes to treating its participants. A 2016 study by Drexel and Kean universities revealed that almost 24 percent of college athletes reported depressive symptoms. Meanwhile, a study by the Pew Research Center in 2018 found that 70 percent of teens reported anxiety and depression as a major problem among their peers. Stick those already prevalent issues in the high-intensity world of sports, and it’s easy to see why so many young athletes suffer. For David Ball, a former NFL defensive end and current mental health counselor, there are three major factors for why so many players are susceptible. “One, I think coaches are great in terms of challenging and motivating their charges, in terms of ‘let’s grit our teeth and run through this wall,’” he says. “That way of hyper-drive thinking is helpful if you have a tangible goal to shoot for.” The problem, Ball says, is that athletes begin to internalize that mindset. Many apply that outlook to all facets of their life, but emotions like anger and anxiety aren’t things that young people should grit their teeth and try to push through. Ball’s second point encompasses all the emotions that come from sports, which can include anger, happiness, and sadness. Athletes are allowed to show anger, which may manifest in dominance on the field, or the happiness that accompanies lifting a trophy or high-fiving teammates after a big play. “But we’re taught that sadness is a weakness and that you shouldn’t show fear,” he says. “Just like in real life, that’s not very helpful. If you suppress parts of who you are, that tends to show up later in bigger and unhealthier ways.”

The third key factor is isolation. In team sports, athletes are locked in with their teammates through all the hard practices, games, and struggles. But if an injury comes into play, it quickly separates one from the rest of the group. Rehab is done alone, creating a disconnect between teammates. “People need to feel safe and connected within that team environment,” says Ball, “and as soon as you’re injured, you’re outside the team. People have a hard time dealing with isolation; like other challenges that people face, it’s amplified when it comes to sports.” When athletes begin to suffer from depression, it can materialize in any number of ways, according to Ball. Some might exhibit feelings of hopelessness or emptiness, while others might seem unplugged from what they’re doing or try to pull away from their peers. The easiest thing to spot, however, is erratic behavioral changes. For teammates and administrations who want to combat depression more effectively, there are plenty of ways to improve. Even if a young athlete is trying to pull away, it’s important to make sure they don’t become fully disconnected. “There are signs, but you can’t really tell unless you ask somebody and they tell you how they’re feeling, which can be difficult,” says

Ball. “Sports are slowly moving toward being more progressive and proactive in terms of mental health, but it’s not where it needs to be to help everyone.” Coaches and administrators can help by learning the warning signs for mental health issues. That way, if they recognize a problem with one of their players, they can immediately step in to assist. It also helps if schools are able to bring in qualified individuals who are available for the athletes to speak with, but Ball recognizes many campuses won’t be able to do so. “Really, it goes a long way if coaches know how to spot and help with mental health struggles, just be available for their athletes in a slightly different capacity.” While the rigors of sports can take their toll, it’s important to keep in mind the many benefits that go along with organized athletics. “There are two sides of the coin,” says Ball. “If things are going well, sports can be a tremendous buffer to mental health struggles. You feel con-

SPORTS ARE SLOWLY MOVING TOWARD BEING MORE PROGRESSIVE AND PROACTIVE IN TERMS OF MENTAL HEALTH, BUT IT’S NOT WHERE IT NEEDS TO BE TO HELP EVERYONE.

nected to a group of people, which makes life so much better, so much fuller. It makes your internal resilience so much stronger. Sports do so much to give people a common goal; everyone has a purpose, you wake up and have structure and strategy, and it’s like you’re mastering something. The dichotomy exists because people do struggle with depression and anxiety, and athletes deal with tremendous pressure. But you see more professional athletes, like [NBA star] Kevin Love being frank about it. So I think we’re headed in the right direction.”

Woodland grows the potential of each child through differentiated instruction, small class sizes, and a challenging, yet supportive educational curriculum.

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Call 901-685-0976 to schedule a tour, or email admissions@woodlandschool.org.

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PH OTO G R A PH BY B R A ND O N D IL L

Janet and Martheus Wade are graphic artists extraordinaire.

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by Jesse Davis

Shiny and pink, with a smiling, teenage ninja on the cover, copies of a new hardbound graphic novel adorn shelves of bookstores and comic book shops around Memphis. The book collects issues 1-6 of Shinobi Ninja Princess, an intermediate-level graphic novel published by Action Lab comics about a teenage trainee of the Toshigawa clan. That trainee, Shianndrea Toshigawa, juggles self-esteem, teenage angst over unrequited love, and, well, throwing stars. It’s a story of empowerment, and it represents a growing trend in comics and speculative fiction, a movement toward representation and inclusion. From Brian K. Vaughaun and Cliff Chiang’s Paper Girls to G. Willow Wilson’s run on Ms.

Marvel, more and more often in the genre, women aren’t waiting to be saved. They’re stepping up and doing the saving themselves. What makes Shinobi so special, though, is that it was made — written, illustrated, inked, and colored — in Memphis. And, as much as it tells the story of Shianndrea and her family, it is the story of another family, the family who wrote and drew and colored their dream into a hardbound, 326-page reality. This is the story of the Wade clan.

Long before Shinobi — and before comic book intellectual properties became such a prominent facet of popular culture, the fuel that drives the Hollywood movie machine — Martheus Wade and Janet Stone took a summer class at the University of Memphis. “We met in creative writing class,” Martheus remembers. “I didn’t know at the time that she was an art major, too.” It was a summer course. Martheus wrote comics-related stories in class, and Janet took notice. “We became friends,” Martheus says. The two artists had a long history with arts from the fringes of pop culture, and their friendship was a natural development of those shared interests in fictional worlds that were, in 1995, still far from the mainstream. Janet spent her early years soaking up Japanese anime at a U.S. Air Force base on Okinawa, Japan, where her father served, and Martheus had long been watching anime and reading comics. They were years ahead of their classmates when it came to embracing comics and cartoons as serious storytelling mediums. “The way the times change is astonishing,” Martheus says. The Memphis-born artist says that, despite all the love he had for the medium, he used to feel like he had to hide his appreciation of comic books to avoid a certain social stigma: “People would be like, ‘Oh, you big nerd!’” He remembers making excuses to skip concerts and social events and go home to work on his art. “I had to lie and say, ‘No, I’m really tired,’ when I was really just trying to submit to comic book companies at night.” That burning-the-midnight-oil ethic would serve Martheus well as he worked on his own (in the lingo of

the comic book business) creator-owned titles, but that wouldn’t be until later. “My really earliest influences were anime because I lived in Japan as a kid,” Janet remembers. “My dad was in the Air Force, so my very early childhood was spent overseas in Japan and the Philippines, but we somehow landed here.” As a child, Janet was drawn to the two-hour block of anime programming on television. She didn’t understand what the characters were saying, but she loved the animation. Meanwhile, in Memphis, Martheus was discovering his own passion for comics and animation. “I’ve always liked reading comic books,” Martheus recalls. When he was younger, he had a tutor who encouraged his burgeoning interest in comics. “She told my mom, ‘If he likes to read comic books, just let him read comic books. As long as he’s reading something.’” His mother took the tutor’s advice and took Martheus to the store. “At the time, it wasn’t comic book stores. It was 7-Eleven and corner stores, with the spinner racks. I would just buy what was on the spinner racks. “None of that stuff came in order,” Martheus says. “It was whatever the store picked up. A lot of times, I would start a storyline and not be able to finish it.” Rather than let himself be stymied by cliffhangers, though, Martheus simply began making up his own endings. “I’ve always had a ‘what if’ sense of thought,” he says. “So I started writing, ‘What if Batman did this?’” Before long, he had stopped writing alternate endings to Batman and had begun crafting original stories. “What I didn’t know at the time was that I was building a world in my head that was my own,” he says.

A World of Their Own Martheus and Janet married on June 8, 2002, but by that time, they had been building worlds together for years. “I started self-publishing when I graduated in ’98,” Martheus says. The young artist’s senior project was to promote a comic book company, so he made his own business cards, letterhead, advertising plan, and an action figure. Thus was born MAW Productions and the company’s flagship title, Jetta: Tales of the Toshigawa. And of course, Martheus and Janet collaborated on Jetta, as they would on many stories, both their own and other properties. “One of my first comic book gigs working professionally was with IDW. I had to get the pages done within a week. I didn’t want to tell them no, but it was a heavy job. It was all likenesses of actors, so the penciling process alone was going to take me a week,” Martheus remembers. The solution was simple — enlist the artistic talents of his wife. Martheus stayed up for three days penciling the book, a comic book insert for the DVD case of the 2008 comedy Role Models, and Janet did the inks. Their work ethic, passion for popular art, and trust in each other would all help influence Shinobi. They’ve built a world on a deep foundation of long nights working on projects together and teasing each other about their childhood interests. “Pop culture, comic books, manga, anime, video games — to some people, I know it seems foreign, but to us, it’s not,” Martheus says. “It’s always been ingrained in our relationship. Even with our son. He and I are working on a comic book together.” Their son, 10-year-old Anakin Wade, is a big part of the Shinobi story. In fact, without him, there may never have been a Shinobi at all.

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Origin Story

COV E R

S TO R Y

Shinobi from the Start “We got pregnant,” Janet says, and the young couple knew they wanted to share their passion for stories with their child. Their relationship had grown from the fertile soil of their imaginations, and they wanted to share the fruits of their labor with their growing family. But, it turns out, there was one little problem. “Jetta was a little too grown-up,” Janet says. So Janet and Martheus set about doing what they do best. They started imagining a new world, one that would be accessible to a child. What had happened, they wondered, before Jetta? “At the time we had one car,” Janet recalls. She says Martheus insisted on driving her to and from work. “On his break times he would write little bits of story of [Shianndrea] as a kid or as a teenager, and on the ride home he would give it to me to read.” “I had more fun doing that than I had working on comics in a long time,” Martheus remembers. “Just because it had a purpose. And it gave us something to talk about on the ride home.” Martheus saw Shinobi as not just an opportunity to share a hobby or entertain, but as a way to pass on some wisdom and hard-learned lessons. “You’re not going to be there all the time,” he says. “It’s not preaching to ’em, but it has some relevance.” In that vein, Shinobi’s first issue deals with jealousy, as young Shianndrea is tempted to hide her talents to keep from outpacing her friends. The father who once hid his artistic talents doesn’t want his son to make the same mistake. “Don’t ever downplay yourself,” Martheus says. “Just do you. There are going to be people who don’t approve, but just do you and be the best person you can be.” As a gift for Anakin, Shinobi is a labor of love, and that love is as crisp and clear as the ink on every page. It shows in the care taken in each step of the process. As an example, in the third chapter, Master Jubei’s story of Shianndrea’s ancestor, Yamato Toshigawa, is rendered in soft-edged watercolor. It seems to hint at the passage of time and the haziness of memory, even as the stylistic choice reinforces the character traits of Yamato Toshigawa, a fisherman. And that flashback is but one example among many of the attention lavished on the graphic novel by a family of dedicated workers.

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F E B R UA RY

2020

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To Infinity and Beyond Like many artists, Martheus and Janet have day jobs. Janet works for the Girl Scouts, and Martheus is a graphic designer for the Memphis Redbirds. He does illustrations and animations, product designs, billboards, game day programs, and specialty jerseys. “It’s a lot of work. It’s a lot of fun, too,” he says. “You’d be surprised how many times I get to work in comic book stuff. The second season I was there, at superhero night, I made everybody a superhero.” He interviewed each member of the team, asked them what power they would like to have, and gave them that power in their illustration. Of course, Martheus still finds time to work on his own stories and to work as a freelance illustrator. He has worked on Action Man from Hasbro, Manavore, Bad Girls Club, and Ghostbusters. “You did Star Wars sketch cards,” Janet reminds her husband before teasing him for being shy about his accomplishments. “You did Marvel sketch cards that you sold for, like, $20 each. Those got snapped up.” The cards were for the Marvel Masterworks series, and they were worth well more than $20. “They usually sell ’em for like $100,” Martheus admits sheepishly. “He didn’t know!” exclaims Janet, laughing. As if that’s not enough to keep the couple busy, Martheus has done some illustration work for his friend Ladelle Beamon’s nonprofit. “He’s with the

Class that Really Rocks

Heal the Hood Foundation,” he says. “We’ve done comic books where it’s all minority comic book superhero characters, and he’s been giving them away in inner-city schools.” Martheus hopes the comics will give young students role models who look like them and, fictional or not, appear to truly care. After all, where would he be if he hadn’t had a tutor who encouraged his interest in comics? Of course, there’s more Shinobi in the works, and the Wades recently released a holiday special, Shinobi: Ninja Princess Illuminations, which they distributed both digitally and in floppy single-issue format. It’s set in Japan on Christmas Eve, and it follows Shianndrea as she and a friend meet to stave off loneliness by whiling away the holiday together. “He had to research,” Janet laughs. “My Christmas in Japan was really American because I was on the base.” As for the future? “I would love to have a show on Netflix,” Martheus and Janet say in unison. Shinobi is ripe for adaptation as an all-ages animation program. It wouldn’t be the first time the Wades’ work was eyed for adaptation; Jetta was optioned by the San Francisco-based Lizard Brain Production. They have a pitch packet ready, in case any animation companies are reading. “I still believe that animation has its place,” Martheus says. “It’s one of the first things we fell in love with,” Janet chimes in. Between parenthood, being a one-family production studio, and taking time to read a comic every now and then, too, Martheus and Janet keep themselves

busy — and plan to for the foreseeable future. When they’re not distributing free, inspirational comics to local children or turning the Redbirds into superheroes, the Wades can be found building a world of their own, one panel at a time. This story was originally published in the November 2019 issue of Memphis magazine. Shinobi Ninja Princess is available at 901 Comics and Comics & Collectibles, Novel bookstore, and online at comixology.com. 

JUST DO YOU. THERE ARE GOING TO BE PEOPLE WHO DON’T APPROVE, BUT JUST DO YOU AND BE THE BEST PERSON YOU CAN BE.

Music for Aardvarks, Memphis!

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CLASSES IN MIDTOWN AND EAST MEMPHIS Visit us at www.memphisaardvarks.com or call 871-0227 for more info

O U T S TA N D I N G

T E AC H E R

by Julia Baker

LIZ WEHMEYER

F E B R UA RY

2020

Liz Wehmeyer, an award-winning second grade teacher at Altruria Elementary School, comes from a long line of educators. Growing up, she was surrounded by family members who were in the education field, like her grandfather and aunt, who were superintendents, and her grandmother and cousins, who were teachers.

“It was something I was always around, and I knew at a very young age that’s what I wanted to do,” says Wehmeyer. “My parents joke that I was in second grade when I announced to the world that’s what I was going to do.” Wehmeyer attended high school in Buffalo, New York, and during her senior year, her family moved to Memphis. However, she decided to finish her high school education in New York. Then, when it came time to search for colleges, she looked at schools in Pennsylvania, but her heart took her to the South to be close to her family, and she ended up at Ole Miss to get her elementary education degree. “I officially moved to Memphis when I got my first teaching job, and I never left,” Wehmeyer says. She spent her first four years educating fifth graders at Barret’s Chapel School and at Highland Oaks Elementary School. After that, she found her home at Altruria Elementary School, where she’s taught second grade for 15 years. “It’s just like a big family,” she says. “I’ve been lucky enough to teach so many siblings. And we just kind of know everybody. There are over 800 kids, but it still feels like a small school. You know all the kids, and the kids know you. And we have

a very supportive administration and coworkers. It’s a great place to be.” Wehmeyer, who’s always had passions for art and computers, has incorporated these interests into her teaching. “I really like to do hands-on and creative activities and to incorporate technology,” she says. “School is hard, and the standards have gotten really tough and rigorous. So anything to get them excited to come in. And just letting them share and talk and show what they’ve created at the end of it is always really big, instead of them just staying at their desks all day.” Wehmeyer has won a number of accolades, including The David A. Pickler Distinguished Technology Educator Award, The Bartlett City Schools Innovation in Teaching with Technology Award, and two schoolwide technology awards, for her exemplary coding projects with her students. One project involved students animating their names through Massachusetts Institute of Technology’s coding program (Scratch) and sharing their works with other members on the platform. “They were able to get critiques from other members of Scratch, and they learned about coding and got to interact with kids from around

the world and get feedback from someone other than me,” says Wehmeyer. “It was really neat because then you can really extend the learning when they go back and add to it after some critique, or it sparks another idea.” Wehmeyer says it’s important for students to learn these computer science and technology skills from an early age. “I think it prepares them for their future,” she says. “Technology is everywhere. Every business, every store, and every doctor’s office has computers, technologies, websites, and apps. And coding is its own language. So I think, just like learning a foreign language, the earlier we expose them to it, the more they are able to deal with it and be familiar with it.” Wehmeyer says the most important virtue she’s learned from teaching is to have grace. “It’s so easy when you’re in college or when you’re a brand-new teacher to have high expectations,” she says. “But you also have to understand that they’re kids, and they’re 7 and 8, and they’re going to make mistakes — and I’m going to make mistakes. And that’s how you rebound and recover from them. And as long as you’re putting in the effort and really trying, that’s just as impor-

tant as a perfect score on a paper.” Wehmeyer says she loves teaching because it keeps her on her toes each and every day. “Every day is an adventure,” she says. “You never know what you’re really going to walk into because no day is the same.” Most of all, Wehmeyer is appreciative of the bonds and connections she has made with her students. “I’m able to keep up with them because I live out here, too,” she says. “So I can see what they’re doing all the way through high school, and there are some college kids I check in on. It’s nice. Once they’re my kids, they’re always my kids.” 

We want to shine a light on your child’s teacher, or even a teacher who made a difference in your life. Submit your nomination today by emailing teacher@memphisparent.com. 20

S P E C I A L

A N N O U N C E M E N T

THE AWARDS ARE BACK, BIGGER AND BETTER THAN EVER. Vote for your favorite family-friendly services and businesses in the Mid-South! Check out all the categories below, then vote at memphisparent.com. We’ll share the results in April!

BALLOT OPEN

FEBRUARY 1 - M ARCH 6 Education Best Daycare Center Best Parents Day Out Program Best Parents Night Out Program Best Preschool Best Public School Best Private School Best Music Lessons Best Dance Lessons

Best Mothers’ Day Out Best Theater Program Best Sports Program Best Sports Lessons Best Tutoring Service Get Out There Best Free Family Outing Best Family Day Trip Best Field Trip for Kids Best Hiking Spot for Kids Best Overnight Summer Camp Best Summer Camp Best Recreational Outing for Families Best Family Fun Run

Best Annual Event for Families Best Tourist Attraction

Best Local Store for Baby Gifts Best Local Toy Shop

Tasty Eats Best Kid-Friendly Restaurant Best Date Night Restaurant (w/o kids) Best Local Pizzeria Best BBQ Best Kids’ Menu Best Meal-To-Go

Family Services Best Salon for Kids’ Haircuts Best Spa for Mom (or Dad) Best Family Fitness Center Best Child Care at a Fitness Center Best Group Fitness Program Best Family Photographer

Shopping Best Locally Owned Children’s Store Best Kids’ Consignment Shop

Party Services Best Kids’ Party Destination Best Kids’ Party Entertainment Best Local Bakery

Visit memphisparent.com/awards to get a “VOTE” badge for social media and let your audience know about your business! Be sure to tag @memphisparent. Write-ins welcome. Download yours now.

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Healthcare Best Pediatrician Best Orthodontist Best Pediatric Dentist Best Pediatric Asthma & Allergy Specialists

DA D

L I B S

with Jeff Hulett

FRECKLES AND ME

A complicated dog story. by Jeff Hulett

Freckles, on the other hand, welcomed to the Hulett family in the summer of 2019, can be an absolute nightmare. Okay, nightmare is a little harsh. Truly, though, she does the things you don’t want your pet to do. She scratches, bites, claws, chews, digs, and barks — a lot. Did I mention she jumps? Freckles jumps in the bath with my daughters. She also climbs in the tub after my wife showers to lick the remnants of water. At any given time in our household, you can most likely hear someone shout: “FRECKLES!” Before I go any further, let me rewind a bit. Chalupa is 6 years old and is essentially a piece of furniture. She doesn’t cause problems, and I guess that makes her uninteresting and boring. Well, at least that’s what my daughters Ella and Beatrice would say. We got “Lupa” when Ella was barely 2. We thought she’d be small, but we were wrong. Anyway, when my wife graduated from her rigorous Montessori educa-

tion training a couple of summers ago, we started hearing the persistent refrain, “Can we get a puppy”? Unbeknownst to me, my wife Annie had been feeding my kids some important fuel by saying, “Once I’m done with my training, we can talk about getting a puppy.” In parent speak, “talk about” means we will do said thing. You see, I’m a dog person, so like any master manipulator would do, all three girls started talking about getting a cat. I do not like cats. Sorry to be so blunt, but cats are terrible. They give zero cares about 99 percent of what their owners do for them. Outdoor cats are okay, but I’d rather have a duck or a pig than some cat that does their business in a box sequestered in a closet. That smell, the maintenance … no thanks! Not to mention they might bring you a dead rat for good measure. I knew I was in trouble when I told them there was no way we were getting a cat. So the search for a dog began in

earnest. We researched online and watched for special announcements. There were several candidates that rose to the top of our list, but none panned out. When Freckles came up for adoption, my girls had to have her. They made sure to be the first to line up at Memphis Animal Services the day she became available. There were others who wanted Freckles. Those folks may have dodged a bullet. Freckles is energetic and boisterous. She immediately asserted herself as the puppy in charge. After two days, she was sleeping in our bed, eating Chalupa’s food, chewing up the fence and every other piece of wood in our backyard, and escaping out the front door every chance she could get. Recently, I had a work event I was supposed to attend. Something nice and special I could take Annie to. We got a babysitter, and I took the dogs to the dog park to wear them out before we were set to head out. The second the babysitter arrived, Freckles made a

run for it and managed to dodge us for an hour before we were able to corral her and bring her home. We missed my work event. Annie and I ended up going to dinner, and the whole conversation was centered on how much stress Freckles caused and the disdain I had for this new addition to the family. I’m pretty sure I said things like, “I never wanted a new dog.” “She’s the worst dog ever.” “I can’t live like this.” After recovering from this particular incident, I had to make a decision. I could either be miserable or I could change my tune and show Freckles the ropes. Who knows, maybe I can get the kids to help, too. Six months in, Freckles is still lively and a bit of a wildcard, but she listens better and is learning to come when called. I have a feeling Freckles could be on a lifelong learning curve, but at least she is trying now. That’s all I can ask, really. I’ll keep you posted on her progress. 

Jeff Hulett is a freelance writer, musician, and PR consultant in Memphis. He lives in the Vollintine Evergreen neighborhood with his wife Annie, two girls Ella and Beatrice, and two dogs Chalupa and Princess Freckles. 22

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

F E B R UA RY

2020

We have two dogs: Chalupa and Freckles. Chalupa is a 60-pound linebacker. Her tail is so dangerous that she’ll knock you down and then show you how much she loves you with her merciless dog kisses. She’s the sweetest, most loving creature you could ask for in a pet.

Join us for the 3rd annual

FREE CAMP EXPO ADMISSION

SATURDAY FEBRUARY 29TH

11am-2pm

PINK PALACE

3050 CENTRAL AVENUE

Representatives from day camps, sports camps, overnight camps, enrichment camps, educational camps, and more will be on hand! Check out memphisparentcampexpo.com for more information, and be sure to follow Memphis Parent on your favorite social channel for updates!

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Meet the staff and leadership of area camps and learn all about your child's spring, summer, and fall enrichment options.

F E B R UA RY

2020

F E AT U R E

KEEPING THE SPARK Ways to rekindle the flames in your marriage.

by Jamie Lober

Having a positive marriage means feeling loved and cherished. Time should not dull your special bond but rather make it stronger. There are many things you can do so every day feels like Valentineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day. It all starts with prioritizing your relationship.

STAY HAPPY It really is possible for both people to be happy at once. “Number one is the commitment to what is called win-win negotiation, which means that no solution is acceptable for either party unless both are fully satisfied,” says Dr. Mark Weiss, a local marriage and family therapist. There are strategies to make this easier. “Instead of talking about the problem your partner has, talk about what your needs are and ask for help,” he says. Never lose the element of fun that once brought you together. “Once every two months, sit down and have a discussion on what you can add or subtract that would make the relationship more pleasure-based instead of obligationbased.” Every day provides a new opportunity to keep the spark alive. Find out what your partner loves and do it. Keep in mind that everyone is different. “There is a book called 5 Languages of Love, which is an educational tool for realizing that everybody gives and receives love in different ways, like service, quiet time or together time, sweet words or gifts,” says Weiss. Learning how to communicate your love is essential to a thriving marriage. USE YOUR SENSES Touch is powerful. Over time, the sensual aspect of the relationship may wane and be replaced by simply being sexual. “I think couples have better sex lives, romantic feelings, and connection when there is more

EVERY DAY PROVIDES A NEW OPPORTUNIT Y … WHEN YOU MAKE A CONSCIOUS EFFORT TO UNDERSTAND YOUR PARTNER BETTER, BOTH OF YOUR NEEDS CAN USUALLY BE MET.

touch to invigorate the senses,” Horton says. Keeping lines of communication open is helpful because couples often find that if somebody is upset they withdraw from intimacy. “If you cannot talk about it, you cannot fix it, so you want to be able to ask, both in and out of the sexual act, what is something that does and does not please you,” says Weiss. When you make a conscious effort to understand your partner better, both of your needs can usually be met. TUNE IN Make an effort to pay close attention to what your partner is saying. “Be more of an active listener by engaging your partner with questions, eye contact, responding to what they say, and hearing yourself more instead of being passive,” says Horton. You want to offer positive feedback and support whenever possible. “Men and women become like the boss who only lets you know when you have done something wrong and lose the sense of acceptance, but when you are falling in love, you feel like your partner gets you for who you are,” Horton says. It is important to be understanding and talk about differences as they emerge in order to stay successful. Understanding one another also means knowing what bothers your partner. Sometimes you may unknowingly say or do something that triggers a bad memory from your partner’s past, usually from childhood.

DON’T SLACK Give your marriage your all. “Do not be lazy,” Horton says. Remember that even the best of marriages pose challenges. Expectations have changed and become higher compared to previous generations. “For our greatgrandparents, it was more of an economic union, whereas now we expect there to be more of an emotional, physical, and sexual connection,” he adds. Many married couples have lost their connection or have had failed relationships prior, which goes to show that relationships are not easy. It is all about your mindset. GIVE THE RELATIONSHIP A CHECKUP Sit down and pretend you are giving your marriage a report card. “Family meetings are about the ability to say, ‘Let us rise above the table and look down at the relationship to see if it is serving us,’” says Weiss. Consider that the definition of relationships has changed along with the time and culture. “Do not fall into relationship patterns from your parents, even if they are functional, because they may be obsolete, and the old idea of a top-dog relationship between husband and wife is an authoritarian approach that usually leads to loss of intimacy,” Weiss says. Both partners should feel like equals, as well as valued in the relationship, in order for it to stand the test of time and keep the spark alive. 

Jamie Lober, author of Pink Power (getpinkpower.com), is dedicated to providing information on women’s and pediatric health topics.

M E M PH I SPA R ENT.COM

MAKE TIME While it may sound basic, setting aside uninterrupted quality time is critical to the survival of a marriage. “Schedule activities on a regular basis that do not involve electronics, like playing board games or going to the park, because it will create a better environment for interacting in a romantic way and getting to another level of conversation,” says Dr. Lee Horton, Memphis-based marriage counselor.

F E B R UA RY

C A L E N DA R

with Meena Viswanathan

Memphis Parent Camp Expo Pink Palace Museum SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 29 11 A.M.-2 P.M. Camps are geared for children aged preschool to 18 years. An opportunity for families to meet face-to-face with camp staff, watch informational videos, and pick up take-home materials for planning your spring, summer, and fall kids’ camps.

Free. Visit memphisparentcampexpo.com for details.

1 ∙ SATURDAY

F E B R UA RY

2020

Bluff City Fire and Ice - Polar Bear Plunge & Chili Cook-off. Mud Island River Park. 10 a.m. Dress in your wackiest costume for a chance to win the Golden Plunge Award or be a chili judge ($5). Benefits Special Olympics Greater Memphis. For details, visit specialolympicsmemphis.org.

Crosstown 10K and 5K. Crosstown Concourse. Registration at 7:30 a.m. Benefiting Church Health. Join for race followed by an after-party in the West Atrium. $20-$45. Visit churchhealth.org or call 701-2303 for information. Chucalissa Family Day. C.H. Nash Museum at Chucalissa. Saturdays at 10 a.m. & 1:30 p.m. Programs and activities change weekly. Feb. 1 - Sports & Hunting/Talking Sticks. Feb. 8 - Stone Tools/Pottery. Feb. 15 - Mystery Box/Beading. Feb. 22 Music/Coloring. Feb. 29 - Trash Talks/ Snake Painting. Activities include museum tour, throwing darts with an atlatl, scavenger hunt, the handson-lab tour, an educational program, and creating a keepsake craft to

take home. $6/adult. $4/child (ages 4-11). Free for children 3 and under. 785-3160. Family Studio. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. 10 a.m.-noon. Create works of art, open studio-style. Free. 761-5250. The Miraculous Journey of Edward Tulane. Tennessee Shakespeare Company. Through February 16. Wednesday & Thursday at 10:30 a.m.; Friday at 6:30 p.m.; Saturday at 11 a.m. & 4 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. The heartwarming children’s book by Kate DiCamillo is brought to life. The play shares the voyage of a toy rabbit that gets separated from his owner and travels across the world, including the bustling streets of Memphis, between a diverse group of owners. $15-$29. Visit tnshakespeare.org for details. GenerosiTea Party benefiting Le Bonheur Children’s Hospital. Woodland Hills Event Center. 11 a.m.1 p.m. Tea party features a fashion show, activity stations, silent auction, and tea market with vendors. $30. Call 287-5988 for details.

Spillit Center Stage: What I Bring with Chalkbeat Tennessee. Epicenter. 7-9 p.m. An evening of true stories shared by students coming from poverty and adults working in the schools. Free for all educators. A donation of $10 suggested for noneducators. Visit Eventbrite for details. Memphis the Musical. Playhouse on the Square (POTS). Through February 8. Thursday through Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. For details, visit playhouseonthesquare.org.

3 ∙ MONDAY

Mom and Baby Yoga. Universal Parenting Place (UPP) @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. On select Mondays (Feb. 3, 10, & 17), 1011 a.m. Geared for children ages 1 and under. Free. 227-9558.

4 ∙ TUESDAY

Caterpillar Club. Memphis Botanic Garden (MBG). On select Tuesdays & Wednesdays (Feb. 4 or 5 and 18 or 19), 10-11 a.m. Choose Tuesday

or Wednesday session. Parents with children ages 2-5 share stories, play games, create crafts, and explore the natural world. Six-class semester fee: $75. Call 636-4122 to register. Mini Masters. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Tuesdays, 10:30-11:15 a.m. Ages 2-4. The program introduces little ones to arts and nature and features story time and hands-on activities. $8. Call 761-5250 to register. Tuesdays at S.T.A.X.: See. Touch. Ask. eXplore. The Stax Museum of American Soul Music. Tuesdays, 2-4 p.m. Stax History is Black History. Explore with hands-on activities, objects from the archive on display, and soulful sounds all around. Feb. 4: Acoustics and Acrostics. Feb. 11: Fresh on the Zine. Feb. 18: Integration, Segregation, and Crossover Success. Feb. 25: (Black) History in the Making. Free admission for Shelby County residents from 1-5 p.m. For more information, visit staxmuseum.com.

Toddler Time. UPP @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. Meets Wednesdays from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Parent-toddler play group. Free. 227-9558. The Play That Goes Wrong. The Orpheum. February 5-9. Wednesday through Friday, 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2 & 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 & 6:30 p.m. Broadway and London’s award-winning comedy comes to the Orpheum. $25-$100. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

6 ∙ THURSDAY

Sprouts. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Thursdays, 10:30-11 a.m. Explore all the senses at this interactive program for toddlers and their caregivers. $8. Call 761-5250 for details. Take Your Dog to Trivia. Memphis Made Brewing Company. 7-9 p.m. Bringing a dog to this general knowledge trivia night is optional but encouraged. Staff from Hollywood Feed attends with goody bags and treats to talk all-things-dog with attendees. Hollywood Feed also provides special prizes to the top teams with a dog. Food truck on site. Prizes for 1st, 2nd, and 3rd places and Best Team Name. Go to hollywoodfeed.com for details. #TBT Film Series: “Throwback Thursdays.” Studio on the Square. 7 p.m. Back to the Future 2. $6. Go to malco.com to purchase advance tickets.

7 ∙ FRIDAY

Stroller Strides. UPP @ Baptist Memorial Hospital for Women. On select Fridays (Feb. 7 & 14), from 11 a.m. until noon. Each 45-minute workout is comprised of strength training, cardio, and core restoration, all while entertaining the little ones with songs, activities, and fun. Free. 227-9558.

Firepit Fridays. River Garden. 4:306:30 p.m. Free s’mores from the 4th Cup and more. Weather cancellations posted by 1 p.m. Parking available in the Tennessee Welcome Center. Free. Visit the Facebook event page for more info.

Fab Fridays Laser Music Shows & Giant Screen Movies. Pink Palace Museum. Fridays, 6-9 p.m. Join for laser music shows at the AutoZone Dome Planetarium and classic movies at the CTI Giant Screen Theater every Friday at the Pink Palace Museum. Visit memphismuseums.org for complete details.

9 ∙ SUNDAY

Love and All That Jazz. Church of the River. Special service from 11 a.m. until noon. Live jazz and readings about love on the Sunday before Valentine’s Day. Childcare available. Go to churchoftheriver.org for details. Harriet Tubman. Bartlett Performing Arts & Conference Center. (BPACC). 2:30-4 p.m. Ages 6 and up. Janice the Griot recounts the historic and courageous tales of freedom as Harriet Tubman. $15/adult. $10/child. 385-5599.

13 ∙ THURSDAY

Hope House Music Time. Hope House. 9-10:30 a.m. IRIS Orchestra presents lullabies and music learning time for babies, toddlers, and preschoolers. Free. 751-7669. Peace, Love & Soul. Stax Museum of American Soul Music. 5:30-7:30 p.m. Ages 5 and up. The first-ever youth Valentine’s Night at the Stax features an indoor scavenger hunt, take-home creative projects, and a DJ playing music in Studio A. Children decorate their own Valentine’s cookie for dessert. Free admission. RSVP on Eventbrite. Light refreshments provided. Call 261-6338 for details.

14 ∙ FRIDAY

Ballet Memphis’ Winter Mix. Ballet Memphis Fly Studio. February 14 -23. Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 2 p.m. Three choreographers Uri Sands, Julie Marie Niekrasz, and 2019 Ballet Memphis New American Dance Resident Crystal Michelle Perkins, create original work that takes inspiration from people and ideas that live as outliers of culture and society. $30/adult. $12.50/child. Call 737-7322 for tickets.

15 ∙ SATURDAY The Musical Adventures of Flat

Stanley The Circuit Playhouse. Two performances at 10 a.m. & 2 p.m. Jeff Brown’s children’s book comes to life in this musical sharing the story of Stanley Lambchop. $10/adult. $5/ child. 726-4656.

African-American musicians in honor of Black History Month. Classical Conversations is a home school community group. Free. 751-7669.

26 ∙ WEDNESDAY

Jazzy Family Day. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. 10 a.m. until noon. Families explore the inspired lives of Harlem Renaissance artists and discover the power of perseverance. The event features art activities, music, snacks, and special guests. Free. 761-5250.

17 ∙ MONDAY

Family Snack Attack: Blackberry Cobbler. Church Health Nutrition Hub. 5:30-6 p.m. Hands-on cooking class for families. $3/participant. At least one parent or guardian must accompany children. Space limited and pre-registration required. Go to churchhealth.org for details.

22 ∙ SATURDAY

Collage Dance Winter Show (RISE). Germantown Performing Arts Center (GPAC). 8 p.m. Also on Sunday, February 23, at 2:30 p.m. Winter program RISE showcases the historically inspired performances including Kevin Thomas’ iconic Rise ballet. Also features the company’s professional dancers performing alongside dance stars of tomorrow. $25. Visit collagedance.org for details.

23 ∙ SUNDAY

Youth Villages 31st Annual Soup Sunday. FedExForum. 11 a.m.-2 p.m. This annual fundraiser features soups, bread, and desserts from over 50 Memphis restaurants and caterers. Kids Zone includes a magic show, Oreo-stacking contest, and appearance from team mascots. $20/ adult. $10/child ages 6-12. Free for children ages 5 and under. $50 for Family Pack (include 4 attendees). Visit youthvillages.org for details.

25 ∙ TUESDAY

Classical Conversations Performance. Faith Baptist Church in Bartlett. Performance from noon until 1 p.m. Features music composed by

Disney’s Aladdin. The Orpheum. February 26 through March 8. Wednesday through Friday at 7:30 p.m.; Saturday at 2 & 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 & 6:30 p.m. The producers of The Lion King present the timeless tale of Aladdin. $29-$145. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

28 ∙ FRIDAY

Trout Fishing in America. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary’s. 8 p.m. Arkansas-based Trout Fishing in America with musical partnership of Keith Grimwood and Ezra Idlet have been entertaining family audiences for more than four decades. $20/adult. $15/child. 537-1483.

29 ∙ SATURDAY

Peanut Butter & Jam: Misti Rae and the Swing Set. GPAC. 9:30 & 10:30 a.m. Ages 8 and under. Get jazzy with Misti Rae and explore feelings and friendships through scat singing, rhythms, melodies, and movement. Finish off with some boogie-woogie, be-bopping, and swing dancing. $8/ child. Includes up to two adults. 751-7500. Magic Carpet with Trout Fishing in America. Buckman Arts Center @ St. Mary’s. 10 a.m. Ages 2 and up. Explore the spirited worlds of acoustic, folk, and rhythm with one of the MidSouth’s most celebrated and beloved collectives, Trout Fishing in America. $5/child. Free for adults. 537-1483.

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5 ∙ WEDNESDAY

O N G O I N G

E V E N T S journeys to becoming experts on themselves and what they need to succeed. Call 682-3115 for details.

Classes & Workshops

KIDS IN THE GARDEN

Saturday Childbirth Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Saturday (Feb. 1 & 15), 9 a.m.-4 p.m. Class covers information on labor/delivery, childbirth, and infant and new mom care. $75. Call 226-5764 to register.

Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Saturday, February 8, from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Children ages 7-10 learn the basics about horticulture and the flora around them. Free. Reservations required. 761-5250.

Museums and Exhibits

F E B R UA RY

2020

The Pink Palace Museum. Race to the End of the Earth. February 8 through May 17. Exhibit focuses on the challenges faced by the two leaders, Norwegian Roald Amundsen and British Robert Falcon Scott, as they compete to reach the South Pole. City of Hope: Resurrection City and the 1968 Poor People’s Campaign poster exhibition. Through June 21. Sun, Earth, Universe. In collaboration with NASA, the National Informal STEM Education Network (NISE Net) presents this interactive exhibit about Earth and space. 636-2362.

CTI 3D Giant Theater. Dinosaurs of Antarctica. Opens February 22. The film follows a team of paleo ecologists on a quest to understand the southern continent’s profound transformation, from a warm and biodiverse Mesozoic to the frozen desert known today. Superpower Dogs. Now showing. Apollo 11: First Steps Edition. Now showing. 636-2362. AutoZone Dome at the Sharpe Planetarium. The Sun, Our Living Star. Now showing. Discover the secrets of our star and experience neverbefore-seen images of the sun’s violent surface in immersive full dome format. Seasonal Stargazing. Now showing. One World, One Sky: Big Bird’s Adventure. Until further notice. 636-2362.

-Ology. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Saturdays, 1:30-3:30 p.m. Ages 1013. This weekly program with a new theme every month aims to provide youngsters a chance to discover new interests and build on social, critical thinking, artmaking, and community skills. $10. Reservations required. 761-5250.

Memphis Zoo. Dinosaurs. February 29 through July 5. Walk through a wooded trail and experience life-sized animatronic dinosaurs in this exhibit at the zoo. $5. Group discounts available. 333-6576.

Other Programs

Film Screening: Autism in Love. Bert Ferguson Community Center. Friday, February 7, 6-8 p.m. Features games, refreshments, and speed dating. Ages 18 and up. $5. Call Amanda Stoner at 379-8827 to register. “A Family Affair” Organ and Tissue Donation Awareness Night. Alpha Memphis Education Foundation. Friday, February 7, 7 p.m. Includes testimonials of those impacted by organ and tissue donation, a panel discussion, games, a video presentation, and an opportunity to register as a donor. The event aims to increase organ and tissue donation awareness in the African-American community. Free. Visit midsouthtransplant.org for details. Normal Isn’t Real: Succeeding with Learning Disabilities & ADHD. University Center Theater. Monday, February 24, 6-8 p.m. Concord Academy and University of Memphis Disability Resources for Students jointly present the Tennessee premiere of the film. In this inspiring film, four successful young adults share the ups and downs of their

Family Metalsmithing: Cast Pewter Valentine Keepsakes. Metal Museum. Sunday, February 2, 2-4 p.m. Families are introduced to pewter casting techniques and create custom keepsakes. $30/family. Reservations required. 774-6380. Books on Stage: “Seussical Kids.” Germantown Community Theatre. February 4 through April 7. Class meets twice weekly. Tuesdays & Thursdays, 4:30-6 p.m. Grades 3rd through 8th. An after-school program designed to bring well known books to stage using young actors. Performances on April 3, 4 and 7. $90/student. Call 453-7449 to register. Kaleidoscope Club. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Wednesdays, 4-5 p.m. Ages 5-9. Children enjoy a project that sparks creativity and critical thinking. $8. Reservations required. 761-5250. Breastfeeding Class. Baptist Women’s Hospital. Thursday, February 6, 6:308:30 p.m. Class covers information on getting started with breastfeeding, how to be successful, and resources. $30. Call 226-5764 to register. Junior Artisans: Embossed Copper Valentines. Metal Museum. Saturday, February 8, from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Ages 7-10 years. Junior metalsmiths create copper valentines using embossing techniques. $15. Reservations required. 774-6380.

Kids in the Garden. Dixon Gallery and Gardens. Saturday, February 8, from 10:30 a.m. until noon. Children ages 7-10 learn the basics about horticulture and the flora around them. Free. Reservations required. 761-5250. Young Coppersmiths: Valentine Signet Rings. Metal Museum. Saturday, February 8, 2:30-4 p.m. Ages 11-13 years. Young metalsmiths use polymer clay to create signet rings that can be used as wax seals. $15. Reservations required. 774-6380. Mini Metalsmiths: Forged Foil Creatures. Metal Museum. Wednesday, February 12, 3:454:45 p.m. Ages 3-6 years. Mini metalsmiths use aluminum foil, copper, and brass fasteners to create kinetic creatures. $10. Reservations required. 774-6380. Fantastical Fairy Houses. MBG. Sunday, February 16, 1-4 p.m. Becky Zee teaches the basics of ceramic work (pinch pot and slab construction). When done constructing, students color their house with a rainbow’s worth of clay paints. All skill levels welcome. Children age 10 and up welcome with parent. All creations given a waterproof clear glaze and fired off site. Finished fairy houses are available for pick up at MBG two weeks after class. $65. Class fee includes all materials. Tools provided. Call 636-4128 to register by Feb. 12. School’s Out! Day Camp. POTS. Monday, February 17, from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. (+ aftercare). Children K-5th grade play theater games, create new characters, and recreate stories based on popular children’s books and characters. Bring your favorite storybook. For extended fun, join a Movie Slumber Party afterward. $50. Reservations required. Go to playhouseonthesquare.org to register online or call 937-6475 for details. Parent’s Day Out Wintertime Haven. Memphis Zoo. Monday, February 17, from 10 a.m. until 2 p.m. Drop your children off for zoo encounters, hands-on activities, and animal experiences. $42/child. Visit memphiszoo.org to register online.

ALVIN AILEY AMERICAN DANCE THEATER The Orpheum. February 14-16. Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 p.m. $39-$89. Call 525-3000 for tickets.

Make Your Own: Leap Day Origami Frog. Metal Museum. Saturday. February 29. Two sessions offered from 10 until noon and 2:30-4:30 p.m. Families learn the process of fold forming using origami patterns. $15. Reservations required. 774-6380. Community/Family Style Dance and Music Workshop. TheatreWorks. Saturday, February 29, 11:30 a.m.-1 p.m. This 90-minute family workshop offers narratives/contexts, demos, and interaction on the dance and music practices of Bomba. $15/adult. $10/ child. Visit cazateatro.org for details.

Home School Classes

Home School Days: Prevent, Protect, and Restore. Memphis Zoo. Thursday, February 13, 9:30-11:30 a.m. & 1-3 p.m. Grades 1-8. Students explore

ways to share the landscape with wildlife. $23/student. Register online at memphiszoo.org by February 11. Home School Days: Environmental Playhouse. MBG. Wednesday, February 19, 2-3:30 p.m. Children ages 5 and up join for hands-on learning experience at the garden. $5. Garden admission not included. Call 636-4100 to register and pre-pay.

Funded by the Tennessee Department of Mental Health and Substance Abuse Services

Fundraisers

Valentine’s Day Cards. MBG. The garden staff is planting thousands of bulbs in preparation for the spring flower display. Support the garden’s labor of love with donations in honor of your Valentine. $20 sends one Valentine card, $50 sends three Valentines, and $100 sends eight. Make donations by February 7. Order online at memphisbotanicgarden. com or call 636-4100 to order by phone. “A Red Carpet Affair, 50 Golden Years of Madonna Learning Center.” East Memphis Hilton. Saturday, February 29, 7-11:30 p.m. The 2020 gala features music by the Soul Shockers, dancing, access to bid on over 300 items in the silent and live auctions, food, and beverages. $150. Advance discounts available until a week before the event. Go to mlc.givesmart.com for ticket purchase details.

DO GOOD. BETTER. 901.726.5725 momentumnonproﬁt.org We help Mid-South nonprofits succeed.

MEM PH I SPA R ENT.COM

Dyslexia Success Series: Vocabulary and Comprehension Instruction in the Early Grades. Middle Tennessee State University. Saturday, February 22, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. The focus of this series is on Building Strong Foundations: K–1 Literacy Screening, Instruction, and Intervention. The content is geared toward education professionals. Parents are also welcome to attend. $25. Certificates of attendance given to support professional development credit (three hours per session). For registration details, go to mtsu.edu/dyslexia and click on Calendar of Events.

O N G O I N G

E V E N T S

Theater Performances Dirty Dozen Brass Band. Buckman Arts Center at St. Mary’s. Sunday, February 9, 7 p.m. The band brings its distinct New Orleans musical gumbo of jazz, funk, riffing, and be-bop to the Buckman stage. $38/adult. $33/ child. 537-1483.

at the 2020 Mid-South American Heart Association

HEART & STROCK BALL Saturday, February 22, 2020 The Peabody Hotel Tickets available at MidSouthHeartBall.Heart.org For more information please contact Nichole Epson at 901-248-7968 or Nichole.Epson@Heart.org

Puccini Double Bill: Suor Angelica & Gianni Schicchi. GPAC. February 14 & 15, 7:30 p.m. Opera Memphis brings two Giacomo Puccini masterpieces and Metropolitan Opera Star Kelly Kaduce to GPAC for Valentine’s Day weekend. $35$90. Reservations. 257-3100. Date Night at the Scheidt: Valentine’s Day Concert. Harris Concert Hall @ University of Memphis. Friday, February 14, 7:30 p.m. Free. 678-2541. Alvin Ailey American Dance Theater. The Orpheum. February 14-16. Friday & Saturday at 8 p.m.; Sunday at 1 p.m. $39-$89. Call 525-3000 for tickets. Memphis Symphony Orchestra (MSO): Classic Accents – Vivaldi and Pizzola. Harris Concert Hall @ U of M. February 22 & 23. Saturday at 7:30 p.m. Sunday at 2:30 p.m. Four violin soloists (from both MSO and U of M, as well as two young prodigy violinists) perform “Four Seasons.” Free. 678-2541.

F E B R UA RY

2020

An Evening with George Winston. Buckman Arts Center at St. Mary’s. Tuesday, February 25, at 7 p.m. $40. Call 537-1483 for tickets.

Afro-Latino Night Concert. TheatreWorks. February 28 & 29, 7:30-9 p.m. Special guest for the Afro-Latino Night is “Redobles de Cultura Group,” New York Citybased Afro-Puerto Rican bomba practitioners presenting a bilingual and multicultural performance in honor of Black History Month. $25. Advance discounts available. Visit cazateatro.org for details.

Story Time at Area Bookstores and Museums

Barnes & Noble Booksellers The Avenue Carriage Crossing Mall, 853-3264 Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages 1-6. Barnes & Noble Booksellers 2774 N. Germantown Pkwy., 386-2468 • Tuesdays and Saturdays at 11 a.m. Ages 2-8. Feb. 1 & 4: Happy Birthday Elmo! Feb. 8 & 11: Always More Love. Feb. 15 & 18: The President of the Jungle. Feb. 22 & 25: Saturday. Feb. 29: Story time and activities celebrating Dr. Seuss. • Baby & Me Story Time. Sundays, 11-11:30 a.m. Ages 2 and under. Feb. 2: I Love the World. Feb. 9: I Love You Book. Feb. 16: Peace Book. Feb. 23: I Love the Earth. • Book signing with Jordan Hirsch. Saturday, February 22, 11 a.m.-1 p.m. Join the author for the signing of the picture book, My Day at School: A Bully Awareness Book. Free. • Get a Clue! Young Reader Event. Saturday, February 29. Ages 8-12. Introducing the InvestiGators, a new graphic novel series about super spies who uncover clues and crack cases — perfect for fans of Dog Man and Diary of a Wimpy Kid. Features activities, a mystery game, and giveaways. Free. Novel. 387 Perkins Ext., 922-5526 Story Time with Marjorie Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11 a.m. Ages 3 and under. Morton Museum of Collierville History 196 N. Main St., 457-2650 Preschool Story Time Fridays, 10:30-11:30 a.m. Children under 5 join for theme-based stories, craft, and snack.

Postpartum Depression

YOU ARE NOT ALONE

Mrs. Germantown International raises awareness of postpartum disorders. support in the Memphis area and found the road to recovery. I am very grateful for the love, dedication, and support from my husband. This experience has brought us closer and made us better parents. I am now an active volunteer with PSI’s phone and text support line. I have been in touch with many mothers, fathers, and family members who are in need of guidance on postpartum disorders. I am also working with local hospitals to raise awareness to pregnant mothers and new mothers. Additionally, I’m attending local childbirth classes and telling my story to help ensure that new mothers- and fathers-to-be are educated on postpartum disorders. I am so excited to compete for the Mrs. Tennessee title on April 5th at the Bartlett Performing Arts Center. The judging is based on 50 percent interview, 25 percent evening gown, and 25 percent fitness. The interview is typically on the contestants’ platform. If I win, I will move on to the

by Carrie Schween My husband Mike and I live in Germantown with our family — Austin (15), Kate (10), Cole (8), and Michael (1) — who keep us very busy with musical theater, cheer, tumbling, karate, and baseball (to name a few!). I am also a second-generation FedEx employee, where I have worked for 14 years in the field of digital marketing. I took the title of Mrs. Germantown International in October 2019. I chose the International pageant system because the system is judged more heavily on the contestants’ pageant platform versus beauty. For those who don’t know, a pageant platform is a cause for which a contestant chooses to volunteer her time, or to bring awareness to. My platform is very dear to me — Postpartum Depression Awareness. I experienced severe postpartum depression, anxiety, and rage for eight months after having my son, Michael. With no previous medical history of depression or anxiety, I was unaware of what I was experiencing. I didn’t seek help and attempted to overcome my “baby blues” on my own. The pain I was enduring was a downward spiral, affecting my husband and marriage, the emotional welfare of my older children, and causing a lack of bonding with my infant at the time, Michael. My family was suffering just as much as I was, and I could not see it. My husband searched for support avenues and found the Postpartum Support International (PSI) group. Through, PSI, I was put in touch with local

WITH NO PREVIOUS MEDICAL HISTORY OF DEPRESSION OR ANXIET Y, I WAS UNAWARE OF WHAT I WAS EXPERIENCING.

national competition in July, where I will compete against the other state winners. I am pursuing this opportunity to raise awareness on postpartum disorders and help others who may be suffering in silence as I was. This experience is allowing me to gain confidence in myself, communicate my platform, and make connections across the globe with mothers and fathers who are committed to raising awareness for postpartum. For girls who may be considering entering pageants, my advice is to follow your dreams. Beauty is more about what’s on the inside than what is on the outside. Stand tall, let your voice be heard, and always be true to yourself. Carrie Schween is a Germantown native with an MBA from the University of Memphis, as well as an undergraduate degree in political science, also from U of M.

Postpartum depression is depression that occurs after having a baby. Feelings of postpartum depression are more intense and last longer than those of “baby blues,” a term used to describe the worry, sadness, and tiredness many women experience after having a baby. “Baby blues” symptoms typically resolve on their own within a few days. How Many Women Experience Depression? Depression is a common and serious illness. A Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) study revealed that about 1 out of 10 women in the United States experience symptoms of depression. Using the Pregnancy Risk Assessment Monitoring System (PRAMS), CDC research shows that nationally, about 1 in 9 women experience symptoms of postpartum depression. Estimates of the number of women affected by postpartum depression differ by age and race/ ethnicity. Additionally, postpartum depression estimates vary by state and can be as high as 1 in 5 women. Symptoms of Depression Depression doesn’t feel the same for everyone. How often symptoms occur, how long they last, and how intense they may feel can be different for each person. Symptoms can include: Lasting sad, anxious, or “empty” mood. Feelings of hopelessness or pessimism. Feelings of guilt, worthlessness, or helplessness. Feelings of irritability or restlessness. Loss of interest in hobbies and activities. Loss of energy. Problems concentrating, recalling details, and making decisions. Difficulty falling asleep or sleeping too much. Overeating or loss of appetite. Thoughts of suicide or suicide attempts. Aches or pains that do not get better with treatment. Symptoms of Postpartum Depression How often postpartum depression symptoms occur, how long they last, and how intense they feel can be different for each person. The symptoms of postpartum depression are similar to symptoms for depression, but may also include: Crying more often than usual. Feelings of anger. Withdrawing from loved ones. Feeling numb or disconnected from your baby. Worrying that you will hurt the baby. Feeling guilty about not being a good mom or doubting your ability to care for the baby. SOURCE: Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, cdc.gov

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V I E W P O I N T

As a Top 10 heart hospital, we reach higher. We all want the best for kids. At Le Bonheur, we’re proud to be recognized as one of the nation’s Top 10 pediatric heart programs by U.S. News & World Report. We are the only children’s hospital in the Southeast to earn this distinction.

Where Every Child Matters lebonheur.org