‘Tis the Season, yet again! Not only the Christmas holiday season, but Nutcracker Ballet season as well!  December 9-11, hundreds of children and adults from Studio K Youth Ballet take the stage at Farthing Auditorium on the ASU Campus. Snowflakes twirl, soldier dolls leap, and the Sugar Plum Fairy dazzles the audience.

The great thing about this presentation of the Nutcracker Ballet is that children of all ages are welcome. “Hundreds of children will grace the stage, and we hope that many children will fill the audience as well.” Ballet director Cay Harkins said. “I’ve had parents tell me their toddlers, and even infants, were mesmerized throughout the whole performance. And if the kids are inspired to dance in the aisles, that’s OK too.”

So don’t worry about shushing your kids when they gasp at the magic of the Nutcracker, as he transforms into the Prince.  Just bring the whole family and be prepared to have a lot of fun. Watch this video for a preview of what you’ll see.

Showtimes are as follows:

• Friday, December 9 at 7:00 PM
• Saturday, December 10 at 7:00 PM
• Sunday, December 11 at 3:00 PM

For more information and to order tickets, call Farthing auditorium at 1-800-841-2787 or 828-262-4046 or email boxoffice@appstate.edu

Disclosure: My entire family is in the show this year! Look for a Rat, Angel, Reed Flute, Chinese Tea, and Candyland girl. I can finally say that my husband is a rat.

Reed Orthodontics is an orthodontic practice in Boone, located at 870 State Farm Road. After practicing in Ocala and Crystal River, Florida for 35 years and treating over 10,000 patients, Dr. Reed transitioned his practice to his son and moved to Boone to provide orthodontic care to this community.

Dr. Reed would like to share this information from the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). If you have any questions, leave a comment below, visit their website at www.ReedOrthoBoone.com, or call Reed Orthodontics at 828-286-9797 for a FREE consultation. I took my 8-year-old daughter for a consultation with Dr. Reed.  You can see a video of our visit on the right! ~ Sarah

7 Common Questions Parents Have About Orthodontic Treatment

Today, nearly four million children in the United States and Canada are receiving treatment from members of the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO). And while parents know that orthodontic treatment results in a healthy, beautiful smile, many don’t realize the important long-term health benefits.

 As part of its commitment to education, the AAO provides parents with this list of answers to commonly asked questions about orthodontic care.

1. Why is orthodontic treatment important?

Straight teeth and properly aligned jaws contribute to good dental health, as well as overall physical health. Orthodontic treatment can boost a person’s self-image as teeth, lips and jaws move into position and improve appearance.

2. How can a parent know if his/her child needs orthodontic treatment?

The best way to know whether your child needs treatment is to visit an orthodontist. The AAO recommends that every child get a check-up with an orthodontist no later than age seven.

3. What if my child still has baby teeth at age seven? Should he/she still see an orthodontist?

Yes. By age 7, enough permanent teeth have arrived for an orthodontist to evaluate how the teeth and jaws meet, and to identify current or developing problems. If your orthodontist finds a problem, he/she can discuss with parents any treatment that may be necessary.

4. How does a child’s growth affect orthodontic treatment?

Treatment and growth often complement each other. In some cases, the orthodontist takes advantage of a child’s growth to guide jaws and teeth into their ideal positions.

5. How often should my child visit our orthodontist while in orthodontic treatment?

Typically, a child will see the orthodontist every 6-12 weeks throughout the course of treatment.

6. If I currently don’t have an orthodontist, what is the best way to find someone to treat orthodontic problems?

To find an orthodontist near you, ask for a referral from your family dentist or you can visit www.braces.org and click on the Find an Orthodontist service. It is important to choose an orthodontist who is a member of the AAO. Orthodontists receive an additional two to three years of specialized education beyond dental school to learn the proper way to align and straighten teeth. Only those with this formal education may call themselves “orthodontists,” and only orthodontists may be members of the AAO.

7. What is the average cost of orthodontic treatment?

Fees will vary, depending on the treatment needed and can usually only be determined following a clinical examination. Most orthodontists offer convenient payment plans, making treatment more affordable than ever. Most orthodontists will work with you to find a plan that fits your family budget. In addition, many patients have dental insurance that includes
orthodontic benefits or a Flexible Spending Account which allows a portion of the orthodontic fee to be paid with tax free dollars. Check with your employer’s human resources department to learn about your insurance coverage or Flexible Spending Account.

Win a Kids’ Sonicare Toothbrush ($69.99 Value)

Reed Orthodontics would like to award one Mom Squad reader a Kids’ Sonicare Toothbrush! This is not just another toothbrush, for sure. Here are some of the features of the Sonicare Toothbrush:

For the last several years, we have tried to publish a comprehensive list of all the Fall Festivals within 50 miles of Boone!  Well, this year is no exception.  Our newest contributor, Becky Webb, has compiled all the new information on the aptly named High Country Fall Festivals page.

My favorite festivals each year are Banner Elk’s Wooly Worm Festival, the Valle Crucis Fair, and the Tweeetsie Railroad Halloween Festival & Ghost Train.

So, click here to visit the list of festivals, and leave a comment telling us YOUR favorite festival! Did we miss one? Add it in the comments, with a link to the info.

When: Saturday July 16
What time: 10:00am-2:00pm
Who: Ages 11 and up/Intermediate and Advanced dancers welcome
Cost: $15

Workshop Schedule

10:00-10:30 -WARM UP

10:30-11:45 -ROCKETTE TECHNIQUE
Learn the basic techniques of the world famous Radio City Rockettes and the secrets behind their classic eye-high kick. Create moving formations from routines like The Parade of the Wooden Soldiers and challenge yourself as you focus on choreographic details that allow the Rockettes to appear dancing in perfect precision.

11:45-12:15 – SNACK/Q&A (please bring a lite snack and drink)

12:15-2:00pm- FOSSE TECHNIQUE
Bob Fosse was one of the most famous Broadway directors and choreographers of all time. His work included Chicago, Pal Joey and Sweet Charity to name a few. This workshop will feature some of his signature steps as well as a short combination in the Fosse style.

For more information, call Cay at 828-265-4111.

A dear friend and teacher here in the High Country, Christ Watson writes a blog called “Daddy Wagon.”   I always look forward to what he writes. He has such a casual, humorous style, while touching on deep issues related to life and parenting.

I just had to share this post, with some fun, free summer frolicking right over in Ashe County!

Ah, the teacher’s summer. No working…Just relaxing, sleeping in, and losing track of what day or time it is. Not to mention all that free time for trips to the beach, Disney World, and the Caribbean. Right? …Wrong! As it turns out, a lot of teachers have to go to workshops, meetings, and a few more meetings. In addition, teachers (especially the single parent types) have rather small household incomes…Never the less…I believe (and I’d say my kiddies would agree) this summer has kicked butt so far. Why? Because I’ve discovered the best kept secret in the High Country: Railroad Grade Road in Fleetwood, NC. Here’s my short list of some favorite, FREE family activities.

1. Play in the shallow, pristine New River! Sure the pool is great…but who wants to swim indoors on a 90 degree day? Our only outdoor option is a glorified baby pool with one diving board, a McDonald’s style plastic slide, and some fountains. It’s a nice pool…but way too small. So…..we go for the free, less crowded, absolutely gorgeous New River. The access spot that we use is located just south of the Fleetwood post office where Railroad Grade Road and Liberty Grove Church Road are joined by a low-level bridge.

Click here to read more about Chris’ family adventures, and how to find your own.

A tasty Gingerbread House, a beautiful Guardian Angel, and a Wicked Witch with a green tongue will delight the entire family in the ballet “Hansel & Gretel.” Presented this weekend by Northwestern Dance Studios at ASU’s Valborg Theatre, the ballet has been adapted from the beloved children’s opera. “I loved the opera when I was a child and always wanted to adapt the beautiful music into a ballet,” states director Wendy Fletcher.

Performing the role of the Guardian Angel is Callista Addis, with Carolyn Ward and Kristi Caldwell as Hansel and Gretel. Carrington Haas, Anna Jobe, and Laura Price are the magical Friendship Birds, Rachel Keller is the loving Mother and Courtney Boccardy plays the green-tongued Wicked Witch. The Gingerbread Children, Morning Glories, Evening Stars, Little Angels, Baby Birds and Mischievous Bunnies are being performed by the students of Northwestern Studios.

Also this weekend is Northwestern Studios’ “Jazz, Tap & More.” Showcasing a variety of upbeat dances including hip-hop, ballroom, tap, and lyrical, there will be something for everyone. The award-winning Northwestern Starz Competition Team will be featured.

“Hansel & Gretel” will be performed on Saturday, May 28 at 7:00pm and Sunday, May 29 at 3:00pm. “Jazz, Tap & More” will be performed on Friday, May 27 at 7:00pm. All performances are at the ASU Department of Theatre and Dance’s Valborg Theatre on Howard Street behind the Turchin Visual Arts Center. Tickets are $7 for children, $10 for adults and are available at the door. Go to www.northwesternstudios.com for more information.

Did you know that Earthfare in Boone has a hopping cafe with all kinds of meals?  We have made Earthfare Family Dinner Night (Kids Eat Free on Thursdays) a tradition, since it was also dance class night.  The kids work up an appetite dancing, then we hop over to Earthfare for a healthy, filling dinner.

I, for one, was very surprised when I saw the large cafe with abundant seating, the hot bar, the huge salad bar, and the panini sandwiches and sides! And they have Wifi, which makes it a win-win for this work-at-home mom!

Tuesday only, Earthfare is having a “Good Ole Days” Celebration, and is offering a $3 coupon, good on your meal, and one for a friend!  You have the choice of a hamburger or two hot dogs with sides, plus either Arnold Palmer Tea or Strawberry Shortcake.

So grab a friend, print out this coupon, and go have an inexpensive, healthy, tasty meal at Earthfare!

There are lots of opportunities to get moving this summer!!  Here are two chances to get up and dance!

Studio K Dance Workshop

Come be a part of summer classes at Studio K.  This year Haley will be offering Hip-hop Hustle for kids as well as adults and PiYo too!  I have taken Haley’s Hip Hop Hustle and I can’t even explain how fun it is!  Grab a friend and go sweat it out!

Haley's Hip Hop Hustle Clas

PiYo is a strength fusion type class that incorporates movements from Pilates and Yoga.  It is not like a traditional Yoga or Pilates class, you will be moving and sweating constantly.  This class will be offered on Wedensday mornings from 9:00-10:00 a.m.  You will need to bring a sticky mat.

Hip-hop Hustle is a cardio dance class that incorporates fun dance routines to current popular music.  Be ready to sweat as you learn to dance like you never thought you could.  Hip-hop Hustle is great for your body and brain, but most of all it’s a lot of fun….you won’t even know you are exercising.

Hip-hop Hustle for kids (ages 7-13) will be offered on Tuesdays from 4:15-5:00
Hip-hop Hustle for adults will be offered on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 5:30-6:30
All classes will be $5, there will also be class cards available for purchase. Classes will begin on May 24th.

For more info, contact Haley at 828-265-2134 / mom2pey@gmail.com

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Summer Ballet

The class will meet Tuesdays 6:30-7:30pm, and costs $5 per class per person.  Students ages 11-up are welcome. Lauren’s Ballet class will offer variations for all levels/ages) Classes will be held June 14, 21, 28;  if interest proves strong we will run another series of three classes in July. Any questions can be directed to Lauren Greene at cedarpro@mac.com

Summer Dance Series 2011 at ASU

Classes are open to all dancers and dance enthusiasts on ASU’s campus or in the community. June 8th through June 30th, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 12:00 -1:15. There will be mixed-level open classes with rotating teachers and dance styles each week to include Pilates, Modern, Jazz, Gyrokinesis, Yoga, Belly-Dance, Swing, Ball Room and more.

There’s no obligation to attend all classes, come when you can! Kids are welcome and may attend with an adult. In lieu of a class fee, donations to the ASU dance Visiting Artist Endowment and Dance Scholarships are welcome. Classes will be held in the Varsity Gym dance studio, Room 208. If you want to be on the email list to get the line-up of classes, contact Regina James at Jamesrg@appstate.edu.

Take a look at our comprehensive list of summer camps, too!

I’ll be traveling to Charlotte for a screening of the new Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides before it comes out this Friday (May 20)!  I’m excited to see what they’ve come up with for the fourth incarnation of the Jack Sparrow tales.

Produced by Jerry Bruckheimer and directed by Rob Marshall, “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger

Tides” captures the fun, adventure and humor that ignited the hit franchise—this time in Disney Digital 3D™. Johnny Depp returns to his iconic role of Captain Jack Sparrow in an action-packed tale of truth,

betrayal, youth and demise. When Jack crosses paths with a woman from his past (Penélope Cruz), he’s not sure if it’s love—or if she’s a ruthless con artist who’s using him to find the fabled Fountain of Youth. When she forces him aboard the Queen Anne’s Revenge, the ship of the formidable pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane), Jack finds himself on an unexpected adventure in which he doesn’t know who to fear more: Blackbeard or the woman from his past.

The international cast includes franchise vets Geoffrey Rush as the vengeful Captain Hector Barbossa, and Kevin R. McNally as Captain Jack’s longtime comrade Joshamee Gibbs, plus Sam Claflin as a stalwart missionary and Astrid Bergès-Frisbey as a mysterious mermaid.

The movie will be at Regal Cinemas in Boone starting Friday, but “Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides” FREE Printable Activity Pack. I do advise that parent’s download and view the Activity Pack before giving it to kids, just to make sure it’s appropriate for their age and sensibilities.  It’s definitely very “Pirate-y,” So there are skulls and swords and such.  Hey, I have three girls, I may be oversensitive to this stuff

CLICK HERE to Download and Print the Activity Pack

I will let you know what I thought of the movie after I see it Tuesday!  You can also see lots of other fun activities on the Pirates of the Caribbean Facebook Page!

My husband and I (with some awesome parent helpers), tie-dyed shirts with over 100 Middle School Band members last week. It was… an experience.  We had some left over, and finished the t-shirts with the family. We’ve gotten so many compliments on the brightness of the colors and generally how good they looked. So we just had to show you how we did it!

Here are 10 easy steps to a perfect Tie Dye! You can watch the video, with my cute children and adorable husband!  Or you can skip to the bare-bones tips below!

If you’re reading this in a RSS reader, click here to view the video.

1. Add 1 TBSP Organic Nitrogen (Urea) to one cup of warm water in a squeeze bottle. This makes the colors as bright as possible for a long period of time.

2. Add about 1 oz of fiber reactive dye to the bottle, and fill with water.  Shake well.

3.  Use 100% cotton garments for the fullest color.

4. Soak in a mixture of 1 cup of Soda Ash Fixer to one gallon of water.This helps the dye adhere to the fabric and soak in well.

5. Fold or crumple your garment into the desired pattern. The video above shows you how to make a swirl or starburst.

6. Place rubber bands to hold it together.

7. Add colors! Apply the dye to the garment with squeeze bottles in your desired pattern.

8. Leave in a plastic bag for 24 hours.

9. Rinse garment in cold water.  Un-band, then rinse again until water runs clear.

10. Wash separately in hot water, and dry in the dryer.

And that’s it folks!! There you have it! Have you ever Tie-Dyed? How did you do it?

PS: These links are not affiliate links, nor sponsored. We got our supplies from Dharma Trading Company, and they were awesome!