ChambanaMoms.com

Don’t Miss The 20th Annual Kids’ Building Fair This Weekend

From The Editors — Thu, 17 May 2012 17:00:45 +0000

Buy a raffle ticket to win this amazing playhouse built by local carpenters! Just $5, and all proceeds benefit the

For the past 20 years, the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum Kids’ Building Fair has been one of the major highlight of the year for families in Champaign-Urbana. This year’s event is bigger and better than ever, in honor of this milestone anniversary, and you can get all the details in our Weekend Planner.

We sat down with Sonya Darter from the Orpheum to chat about this great event and why it’s the perfect family activity.

Q: Why is this the Kids’ Building Fair so popular?

Darter: This celebration of the “built” environment is a 20-year old tradition that engages families and children of all ages in hands-on activities that demonstrate the fundamentals of the building trades. You can take a shot at carpentry, plumbing, landscaping, painting, masonry, metal work, and power distribution. At the same time, you learn about our community’s efforts in architecture, preservation, and conservation; and the fundamental arts and sciences that support the construction of communities.

Visitors have the opportunity to spend a beautiful Saturday in May with subject-matter experts to guide them as they get their hands dirty creating! With 20 activity stations, food concessions, a stage show featuring magicians, musicians, aviators, and more, this free event has something for everyone.

Q: Any tips for parents bringing their kids for the first time?

Darter: Plan to spend a messy, fun-filled afternoon with us and leave the dress clothes at home. The event is held in the parking lot in front of the museum and, while there are canopies and plenty of water complements of Illinois American Water, a little bit of sun screen is probably in order. The University of Illinois iPAN steel drum band kicks off the event at 11 a.m. and Captain Rat and the Blind Rivets will be playing your favorite classics mid-afternoon. Derald’s Mobile Catering will be on hand with food and beverages for lunch. We’ve had attendees bring their own hammer, not necessary, but might be a good idea if you have one handy!

Also, the Carpenter’s Local #44, with sponsorship from Kirchner Building Centers, has built a dream playhouse that the museum will raffle off as a fundraiser. Tickets are $5 and the drawing will be held at 4pm. The playhouse can be delivered anywhere in Champaign County, complements of Nash Crane Service and Reynolds towing.

Q: We have kids of all ages. Is there something for everyone?

Darter: Yes! Even a bounce house.

Q: So tell us, is there anything new this year?

Darter: The stage show is a new addition this year, to celebrate the event’s 20th anniversary. The schedule is as follows:

11 a.m. to 12 p.m.: IPAN Steel Drums
12:15 to 12:45 p.m.: Hula Hoop Contest with Emcee Mayor Don Gerard
1 to 1:30 p.m.: Model Airplane Club Air Show
1:45 to 2:15 p.m: JR Thomas Magic Show
2:30 to 3:00 p.m.: Captain Rat and the Blind Rivets
3:15 to 3:45 p.m.: Leaders for Life Martial Arts

Q: This is the 20th year of the event. What does that mean to you?

Darter: For 20 years community support has enabled the fair, demonstrating its dedication to supporting the museum, science and art education and historic preservation. And, each year, the increasing number of visitors and supporters are testaments to its popularity and relevance.

Weekend Planner: Orpheum Building Fair Edition

From The Editors — Thu, 17 May 2012 11:59:34 +0000

Congratulations to the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum on the 20th year of the Kids’ Building Fair. We are proud to be a sponsor of this fantastic event! Head over to this free, annual family favorite between 11 a.m. and 4 p.m. on Saturday, May 19. To mark the milestone of its 20 anniversary, this year’s Fair will include a stage show featuring various artists, contests, scientists, aviators, and even a magician. There will even be a Hula Hoop Contest with special guest Emcee Mayor Don Gerard!

Buy a raffle ticket to win this amazing playhouse built by local carpenters! Tickets are just $5, and all proceeds benefit the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum. Get tickets at Building Fair - admission is free!

Designed to provide children and families with an educational and discovery-based introduction to the skills and tools involved in the preservation of historic buildings like the Orpheum Theatre, the Kid’s Building Fair has activities for the whole family and offers a unique opportunity to explore the community’s “built” environment under the guidance of volunteer subject matter experts from more than 20 disciplines. Attendees will participate in more than 20 different “cities”, all related to building trades, engineering, and preservation.

Here is what else is on our radar this weekend:What: Sprouts at the Market
When: Saturday, May 19, 9 to 11 a.m.
Where: Market at the Square,
How FREE
Appropriate for: ages 3-8
Why you should go: It’s the first Sprouts of the season — which means we will be at the Market! Come say hi and do a project related to seeds and planting.

What: Kids Building Fair at the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum
When: Saturday, May 19, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Where: Parking Lot of the Orpheum Children’s Science Museum, 346 N. Neil St., Champaign
How much: Free (event is outdoors; regular admission charge to the museum)
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: One of the most highly anticipated children’s events of the year gives children an entertaining and educational introduction to the building trades and coincides with Historic Preservation Week. This event celebrates a rich heritage in the arts, building trades, community history, and hands-on understanding of the built environment. To celebrate the 20th year there will be live entertainment as well! Don’t miss it!

What: Illini Baseball vs. Minnesota
When: Thursday, May 17, 6:35 p.m.; Friday, May 18, 6:05 p.m.; Saturday, May 19, 12:05 p.m.
Where: Illinois Field, Champaign
How much: Free
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: It’s the last on-campus Illini sporting event of the spring. Cheer on the Illini as they fight for a spot in the Big Ten tournament.

What: “Yellow Submarine”
When: Saturday, May 19, 10 a.m. and n; Sunday, May 20, 3:30 p.m.
Where: Art Theater, Champaign
How much: $5 ticket
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: On May 19 and 20, the Art Theater will show the G-rated classic “Yellow Submarine” featuring the music of the Beatles. This version was restored and looks amazing on our big screen. Kids of all ages (and adults of all ages, too) will love hearing the great music and the stylish animation.

What: Savoy Recreation Center Summer Carnival Kick-Off
When: Sunday, May 20, 3 to 6 p.m.
Where: Savoy Recreation Center, 402 W. Graham Drive, Savoy
How much: FREE
Appropriate for: All ages
Why you should go: Bounce house and other carnival favorites! Kids of all ages will hurry down to see, touch, and even sit in trucks of all kinds, including fire engines, police vehicles, road works trucks, and more.

As always, for more family-friendly events please check our events calendar. There are plenty!

Read All About It: 2012 Summer Reading Programs

Amy L. Hatch — Thu, 17 May 2012 05:00:15 +0000

Credit: iStockPhoto

Who says summer has to be a brain drain?

The last few days of school are rapidly approaching, but you can keep your kids learning during the hotter months with some great area summer reading programs. We put together a round-up of as many of them as we could find, and please, if we’ve forgotten one, let us know in the comments!

And, don’t forget that some of the biggest book hits of 2011-2012 have fallen under the Young Adult category, so don’t be afraid to follow along. Great novels know no age limits!

Champaign Public Library

403-2030

Participants in the Champaign Public Library’s summer reading programs are divided into three categories: babies through fourth-grade graduates, fifth- through 12^th-grade students, and adults. The 2012 theme for readers who are graduates of fourth-grade and younger is “Treasure Your Reading” and a special kick-off event featuring swashbuckling fun is scheduled for 2 p.m. on Saturday, May 26.

Urbana Free Library

367-4057

The UFL has separate programs for pre-readers, readers and teens, and this year the theme is “Reading is a Picnic” for the younger kids, and Reading Is So Delicious for teens. Each group has to complete a certain number of books before winning a free one. Students who read more than the required amount are eligible for drawings for gift certificates donated from local businesses. (Also the case in many of the other libraries’ programs.) A kick-off event for the teen program is scheduled for 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Thursday, May 31 at the library.

Rantoul Public Library

893-3955

Children from birth through 14 are invited to participate in the kids’ summer reading program, and those aged 15 and older can join the teen and adult program. Participants keep track of reading minutes on a log, and prizes are given when goals are met — small prizes for small goals, bigger rewards when larger goals are met. Yes, adults get prizes, too! The kick-off date has yet to be released and we will update that information when it becomes available.

St. Joseph Township-Swearingen Memorial Library

469-2159

Their reading programs for kids (preschool through fourth grade) and teens (fifth through 12th grade) will begin on June 4 and will end on July 14 Participants color in squares on a game board to indicate number of minutes read. For kids, prizes are available after levels are completed, and all groups get to enter a “grand prize” drawing when their game boards are completed.

Tolono Public Library

485-5558

The Tolono Public Library is kicking off the “Reading Is So Delicious” summer reading program on June 2 at 1 p.m. with a juggler-theme event! Be sure to visit their excellent website for more information about this, and all of the library’s other resources, events, and programs.

Barnes and Noble Summer Reading Program

Any child entering grades 1-6 in the fall can participate in the Barnes & Noble summer reading program, “Imagination’s Destination.” Read eight books , fill out a Reading Journal (available in-store or online at www.bn.com/summerreading), and bring the completed log in for a free book. A kick-off event is scheduled for Wednesday, June 6 at 6 p.m., and will also featureLEGO building fun!

Let’s Help Lily! Champaign Girl in Running for “Special Bike”

Laura Weisskopf Bleill — Wed, 16 May 2012 03:04:36 +0000

By Shelli Stine

From the end of April, when I learned about the Great Bike Giveaway, until last Thursday when all entries were due, I spent a good deal of time dreaming, scheming, and scrapping ideas in an effort to win my daughter the bike she dares not hope for in an amazing contest that provides “Special Bikes for Special Kids.” The Friendship Circle of Michigan is giving families with children who have special needs (any special needs) this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to receive one of 14 adaptive bikes.

What kind of a contest is it, you ask? Certainly not a bike race for the families of these precious kids… my daughter’s chances of winning would be zero. Maybe it’s an essay contest? Well, at least, there would be some hope of placing. But, no; this is a Facebook

Champaign-Urbana - let's get Lily that bike! Photo provided

contest. So, I submitted the most creative photo I could think of (with the help of Photoshop and Istockphoto.com) of my sweet little girl and the required 250 characters that describe why she needs an adaptive bike:

Miss Lily is 8. She was born with a neuromuscular disease. Lil has PDD (pervasive developmental disorder), weak muscles, and is nonverbal—she also has epilepsy. Playing outside is hard work for her. But she squeals and claps every time kids pass by on bikes—she wants to go fast, too!

Then, I really got to work! The 14 lucky winners of the contest will have the most Facebook votes by people who “Like” the Friendship Circle of Michigan page.

I started the “Vote for Lily” campaign Monday morning with a new cover photo featuring the contest on my own page and some carefully crafted posts that everyone can view on my page morning, noon, and night:

[My post] PLEASE help my very special little girl win the special bike I could never give her!! “Like” this contest page and then click to VOTE next to Miss Lily’s entry. It’s this week only! The child with the most votes (and a creative photo submission) wins an adaptive bike. If you have lots of FB friends, will you SHARE this with them, too? The more votes the better… A toy that most children enjoy every day would improve my daughter’s life in ways she can’t imagine!

It will take so many votes for my little girl to win the bike that can change her life. And, honestly, it’s heart-wrenching to read about all of the 150 kiddos entered in the contest who deserve and need a special bike. But no matter what the outcome of this contest brings for my little one, my heart is warmed by the way my friends and colleagues and acquaintances, and even friends of friends, have taken time in their busy days to offer a “click” or two of support, and often a word of encouragement, for this special needs family!

That outpouring of kindness will take us many miles farther than any bike could. Since that’s a big part of the Friendship Circle’s mission, I have to believe that the purpose of this contest was more than giving away bikes—it was about creating networks to gather around and cheer-on those among us who need it most.

Shelli Stine lives in Champaign with her husband and daughter.

At the Editor’s Desk: The Revolving Door

Laura Weisskopf Bleill — Tue, 15 May 2012 11:15:20 +0000

Saying goodbye, why is it sad?
Makes us remember the good times we’ve had
Much more to say, foolish to try
It’s time for saying goodbye
- Muppets Take Manhattan

Last week I was driving to work when I experienced an episode of sudden onset spontaneous tears.

It was a conversation I had read on Twitter between one friend and another, about one friend’s upcoming move away from Champaign-Urbana, that made me cry that ugly cry. The type of cry that means you have to fix your face before you freak out the next person you see.

This is the time of year that brings about change around here. Friends move out, friends move on. And then a new crop — possible new friends – moves back in. Champaign-Urbana is a transient place, and this summer will be no different. When the heart and hearth of a community is a University, saying goodbye to friends is part and parcel of living around here.

Spring and summer bring so many possibilities. They also bring upon us the season of loss.

I am so thrilled for my friend Lisa, who will be leaving her job here for a wonderful career opportunity at another university. She had told me about the job opportunity and kept me abreast of interview process, so it was no surprise when I heard the news that she was chosen. But her leaving will leave another divot in my heart.

Some people meet their mates online – I have met some of my best friends that way. Lisa is one of the kindred spirits I connected with because of my online activity, years ago. We met for the first time in person at Urbana’s Market at the Square, and little did I know then how much she would come to mean to me.

Some people you just click with.

Although months have gone between cherished lunches or chance meetings, I have always treasured the time we’ve had together. Lisa has been there as a sounding board when I’ve needed career advice; we’ve commiserated about children, family, childcare; yes, even husbands. She is just a kindred spirit, a sharp-witted, amazing woman whom I have been blessed to call my friend.

I know it’s not the end of our friendship but rather a new beginning. We’ll find a way to keep in touch in spite of our busy lives, a way that still has meaning.

Because that’s what we’ll do. We always have.

I know people who won’t open their hearts to people they know won’t stick around here very long. For me, life is too short — and true friends too precious — to put up such walls. So, I make myself vulnerable. After all, I was one of those people who came here never planning to stay. And was one of those people who left, never planning to return.

The other morning my Muppets-obsessed children were watching Muppets Take Manhattan. At one point in the movie, the Muppets disperse after they graduate from college, landing jobs all over the country — and they sing the song I have quoted from above and below. My 6-year-old told me how said it made her.

Get used to it, kid.

Saying goodbye is one of the hardest things we have to do in life. And although we have become veterans at it — somehow it never gets any easier.

Somehow I know we’ll meet again
Not sure quite where, and I don’t know just when
You’re in my heart, so until then
Wanna smile, wanna cry
Saying goodbye
La la la la la la la la
It’s time for saying goodbye

Laura Weisskopf Bleill is the co-founder and editor of chambanamoms.com. You can reach her at laura@chambanamoms(dot)com.

Mom to Mom: Taking Stock Means A Season of Change

From The Editors — Tue, 15 May 2012 06:18:00 +0000

By Jennifer Newell

To work or not to work- that is the question. This has been a point of discussion for all mothers for many decades. Of course, I have had the same dilemma. How much do I work? How do I balance being a mother to my kids with my own productive and interesting activities? And more importantly, how do I manage feelings of motherly guilt related to my own career?

The Newell family. Photo provided

Four years ago when I opened Bella Bambini I thought I had found the answer. I thought that I could make my own hours, set my own goals and be my own boss. For the most part, owning your own business does allow many advantages that working for someone else often doesn’t. However, the burden of the business’ success land’s squarely and only on your shoulders. While trying to balance my business, my faith and my family, I have allowed the weight of the store responsibilities to take too much of a toll on my other priorities. Just as in any life change, recognition for the need to change is the first step.

A few months ago I started to think about what I enjoyed about my business and it was easy to consider. I love working with families. I love the relationships that I have made over the past few years and I love helping parents, grandmothers and friends choose just the right outfit for a well-loved child. I enjoy fashion, especially when applied to children. I love children and enjoy interacting with those who love them. Mostly I enjoy the people who come into the store, their stories and relating with them in a way that hopefully adds to their day.

So, I decided to take what I love about my job and change the way I am open for business. Bella Bambini is going to become a Pop-Up Store in Champaign-Urbana instead of a store front that you can visit daily. Most parents shop seasonally for their children. Weather changes, holidays come and go, and clothes change with seasonality. Those changes bring along the best opportunities to meet the need…..four times per year.

Bella Bambini will be open four weekends a year and will allow interested families to plan for each season. During these weekends you can expect to find a Ladies Night out, story time and fun activities for kids — all free and at a new location. We will also continue to be open online and continue to sell all of our customized Sweet Petunia t-shirts and dresses on Facebook.

What this means for me as a mom is that I’m recalibrating and adapting. I was looking inside my life, and I realized that I was missing out too much on my children’s lives. I already know that it’s going to go too fast. I only get one chance at this and I don’t want to mess it up. I’m excited about the new design of Bella Bambini and for the opportunities that lie ahead.

Everyone has to find their own balance, it is different for each one of us and it evolves. I hope now that I have found mine, at least for this phase of my life!

Save the Date! Bella Bambini’s first Pop-Up experience will be July 19 & 20 at CU Studio Share located at 110 S. Race St. in Urbana. Starting Wednesday, May 16 Bella Bambini will have a moving sale with everything 40% off.

A Savoy resident and mom of two, Jennifer Newell is the owner of chambanamoms.com partner Bella Bambini (1422 S. Neil St. in Champaign, just north of Kirby Ave.). Newell also blogs on the Bella Bambini website.

Playing It Safe: Making A Difference For Children In Champaign-Urbana

From The Editors — Tue, 15 May 2012 05:00:34 +0000

Editor’s Note: This post is provided by Carle Foundation Hospital, a chambanamoms.com sponsor.

By Dana Hagerstrom

Summer is a chance for kids to run free – and unfortunately, to get themselves in some potentially dangerous situations. Playing It Safe, the annual family safety fair sponsored by Carle and Safe Kids Champaign County, will take place Saturday, June 9 from 9:30 a.m. – 2 p.m. at the Champaign County Fairgrounds.

Photo provided.

This unique event offers families the perfect setting to learn better ways to be safeand have fun in the process.

“The leading cause of death in children is motor vehicle accidents, and the top two injuries are falls and poisonings,” says Patty Metzler, nurse and pediatric coordinator in Carle’s Emergency Department, and 16-year event committee member. “When children and parents are able to talk to nurses, EMTs, firefighters, police officers and safety experts – and get safety information in a fun, educational way – they respond and change their lives accordingly. We’re grateful this event can help lower that statistic.”

With more than 40 safety exhibits from local law enforcement and safety experts, children can participate in a number of activities, including seatbelt safety, “Spot the Tot” vehicle safety and a Bicycle Rodeo, which teaches bike safety on the road. Other interactive exhibits include a fire safety house and tours of fire trucks, ambulances, police vehicles and the AirLife medical helicopter.

New this year, Live Line Demo and Ameren will give an attention-grabbing presentation on electrical safety, showing children what to do – and not to do – when around potentially harmful electricity. Among other new activities, Champaign Police will present on anti-bullying, and Students Against Distracted Driving will teach of the dangers of driving while distracted.

But the exhibits aren’t just for kids. Parents can get a free child identification kit for each of their children, provided by the Illinois Secretary of State Police. Safe Kids Champaign County will also provide car seat safety checks, completed by certified technicians.

One of the best things about the fair – admission and all activities are free. Hourly prize drawings will happen throughout the day, and between 11 a.m. and 1 p.m., the first 1,500 guests will receive a free hot dog lunch, courtesy of Sonic Drive-In. And for the third year, children can earn time on inflatable games from Action Inflatables just by participating in safety activities.

“Playing It Safe is such an exciting way to get involved with the community,” Metzler says. “The most thrilling part about it all is that you’re helping children have fun, but also teaching the kids and their parents, grandparents, siblings and friends life-long lessons about safety they can take home and put to use immediately.”

Find a list of all participating agencies and safety topics online, and be sure to RSVP for the event on Carle’s Facebook page.

Don’t miss this opportunity to learn how you and your family can play it safe!

Open Forums Explore Champaign-Urbana Public School Education

From The Editors — Mon, 14 May 2012 09:47:26 +0000

By Charles Schultz

On Tuesday, May 15, at 7 p.m. in the Lewis Auditorium at the Urbana Free Library, Chuck Jackson and I will host our second open forum on public school education in Champaign-Urbana. The editors at Chambanamoms.com have been kind enough to give us a space to explain what we are doing and why we are doing it.

Both Chuck, a former Champaign Unit 4 school board candidate, and I see a need for open, public conversations in safe environments where community members (parents, teachers, administrators, students, homeowners, business owners, etc.) can explore alternatives to “the way we have always done it.” We do not claim to have all the answers, but we certainly have ideas of our own (and differing ideas at that) and recognize that many of you also have ideas. We want to mine the richness of our diversity and brainstorm various options.

Charles Schultz is the co-organizer of a community-wide forum to discuss education. The event is scheduled for May 15.

Our main goal is to throw open the doors of communication. Many others are doing this in their own ways. Perhaps what might be different about what we are doing is that we actively seek out different opinions over the course of many scheduled forums, summarize those thoughts in the public sphere (i.e., website), and aim to take action by engaging the school district on the top priorities we find. We will be planning forums for specific groups (i.e., one for just teachers, several for cultural groups, maybe even one for students) over and above the more public open forums (May 15 and Sept. 4 so far). We really want to convey the message that everyone has worth, has value and has a voice. We want to do this by going to where people feel most comfortable; we have scheduled forums at libraries and a church, with some ideas perhaps to go to more churches, the IMC and schools.

There is an existing and obvious communication issue within our community in regards to education. In Unit 4, one has but to read about the Working Cash Bonds or the Kindergarten School Assignment process, or even going further back with previous referenda and the Consent Decree. Dr. Mark Aber’s two Climate Studies both indicated issues of communication and trust not only between the district administration and the community, but also with the building-level staff as well.

We fully acknowledge the efforts of Superintendent Dr. Judy Wiegand and the Board to address those issues; it is not our intent to say that “nothing” is happening or that we can do it better. Dr. Wiegand is holding a book study with building staff and encouraging free discussion about District Leadership; Unit 4 is bringing in a Public Engagement firm; Board Member Jamar Brown has held an open forum; and the school district has partnered with the Champaign Community Coalition to seek out the needs of residents. And I am sure there are more efforts.

So to reiterate our goal, we truly want the doors of communication to be wide open. And that may involve some very nontraditional topics and out-of-the-box ideas. We do not want to settle for “adequate” or “average” schools. We want awesome, world-class schools in Champaign and Urbana.

Why? What motivates and moves us? I am compelled to quote Dr. Edna Olive who stated, “(T)he education and support of children is some of the world’s most important work.” We believe that at the core of a healthy society is a very relational commitment to each other as a community and to education. And that’s pretty much it. People innately have value and worth; we want to make sure that is communicated by investing in relationships.

So please come join us as we journey down this path of community-wide discovery.

Charles Schultz, a former Chambana Dad to Know, writes a citizen’s blog about Champaign Unit 4 schools. Schultz is a database administrator at the University of Illinois who also teaches classes at Parkland College. He and his wife, Heather, live in Savoy with their daughter.

Start Your Engines: Touch a Truck is May 16

Laura Weisskopf Bleill — Sun, 13 May 2012 23:29:44 +0000

The Champaign Park District‘s Touch a Truck event, an annual highlight for toddlers and preschoolers all over Champaign County, is already upon us.

The Raminator has been a staple at the Champaign Park District's Touch a Truck event for children ages 2-5. This year's event is May 16. Photo provided

On Wednesday, May 16, vehicles of all shapes and sizes will occupy the circle drive at Centennial Park by Sholem Aquatic Center. All the old favorites will be there, including a cement truck, a street sweeper, an ambulance, a Harley Davidson motorcycle with a side car, a Champaign Police Department squad car, a Champaign Fire Department truck, a MTD hybrid bus, a Raminator monster truck, a school bus, a NASCAR simulator from Worden Martin, and a flatbed from Reynold’s Towing.

Children ages 2 to 5 are invited to crawl around the vehicles, honk the horns, sit in the driver’s seats, run up and down the flatbed. The people who drive the vehicles on a regular basis will be on hand to answer questions and show the kids around.

In addition to the trucks, there will be free ice cream provided courtesy of Marble Slab Creamery in Savoy; inflatables with a transportation theme; and child-friendly music. Also, kids can get their “driver’s license” photo taken; they will be available for download from the Champaign Park District’s website later in the week.

We asked Tony Oligney-Estill, the Special Events Manager at Champaign Park District, to give us the lowdown on the 12th edition of Touch a Truck.

Chambanamoms.com: Why is this event so popular?

Tony Oligney-Estill: This event is so popular because of a few reasons. First, there are not that many 0-5 programs offered in our community. Second, what kid doesn’t like to play with or on trucks! Finally, it is FREE!!!!

Chambanamoms.com: Any tips for parents bringing their kids for the first time?

Tony Oligney-Estill: It is good to keep in mind that this event is very loud. If your child does not like loud noises, make sure they are prepared for this. Also, there are over 1,000 people at this event during the three hours it goes on. Make sure to keep an eye on your child at all times.

Chambanamoms.com: Is there a most popular vehicle? What is it?

Tony Oligney-Estill: The fire truck always has a long line. Plus kids get a fireman’s hat. Believe it or not, the flatbed tow truck from Reynolds is always busy as kids use it as a slide.

Chambanamoms.com: Is there anything new this year?

Tony Oligney-Estill: We have a stretch limo this year from Star Limousines. That may be more fun for the adults than the kids. We also have a powered parachute and a bucket truck from the Champaign Park District.

What: Touch a Truck
When: 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., Wednesday, May 16
Where: Centennial Park, by the picnic shelter and Sholem Aquatic Center, Champaign
How much: FREE!
Appropriate for: 2- to 5-year-olds. Be advised that there is a lot of noise at this event.

(In case of inclement weather, the event will be canceled, and there is no rain date.)

Chambana Mom To Know: Angie Marker, The Wannabe Mom

Wannabe Mom — Fri, 11 May 2012 05:00:56 +0000

By Amy L. Hatch

For months so many of you followed the story of The Wannabe Mom, a Champaign woman who struggled with infertility while longing for a child. We cheered her on during her IVF, we mourned with her when she lost her first pregnancies.

Angie Marker, formerly known as The Wannabe Mom, and her son, Johnny. Credit: Erin Knowles Photography

This summer, The Wannabe Mom and her husband adopted a little baby boy — and then found themselves suddenly, spontaneously, pregnant.

Today we’d like to introduce you to The Wannabe Mom, Angie Marker.

Q: OK, it’s time to take the mask off. Tell us, who is the real Wannabe Mom?

My name is Angie Marker. I’m a 30-year-old townie. I am still this girl. I just drive a Toyota Sienna minivan now.

Q: Why did you decide to reveal your identity?

It was time. I couldn’t have been so vulnerable and open with my writing had I not done it anonymously. But at this point in our journey, it’s time to put a face with our story.

I have a dear friend who just confided in me about her struggles with infertility. When I told her I’d been there–she looked so relieved. There’s something very comforting in knowing someone who’s been through it all and can empathize. There’s strength in that sisterhood.

I know there are probably plenty of other women struggling with infertility who know me personally. I hope they find a little comfort after reading this–knowing I went through hell and back and knowing I know exactly what they’re going through.

Q: What moved you to write so openly about your issues with infertility? Did it help?

Our issues with infertility and recurrent miscarriages weren’t easy to share. There’s a little bit of shame and embarrassment that comes with the territory. I really wanted women like me—women who wanted so badly to be a mom, but were struggling through infertility—to have their own little corner of chambanamoms.com. Once I started writing, I was amazed at how many women in the community were relating to my story–and sharing their own infertility struggles. That empathy was a beautiful thing—and very therapeutic for me.

Q: Can you tell us what exactly your condition was?

I’ve been diagnosed as having unexplained infertility. I have a normal cycle, a little on the short side—but still normal. My hormone levels have always been normal. I’m treated for hypothyroidism, but even those levels have been normal for quite some time. I also have endometriosis. I was able to get pregnant—once spontaneously and once through IVF–but keeping those pregnancies was impossible for me. I have absolutely no idea how I was able to get–and stay–pregnant this time.

Infertility is a disease. You’re never cured. You’re treated. I’ll always be infertile—unfortunately a successful pregnancy won’t change that.

Q: We know you adopted a baby boy. Is motherhood everything you expected it to be? How has it changed you?

Motherhood—for the most part–is everything I expected. Our adoption was finalized a few months ago, and the adoption process has also been great. We’re lucky to have an open adoption and we have a relationship with both our birthparents.

Our son is a good baby—good eater, good sleeper, easy-going. But it’s still hard. Not harder than I expected, but still hard. Having struggled through infertility, I don’t take a single second of it for granted though. Anytime I want to complain, I stop and remind myself how lucky I am.

Motherhood has allowed me to love more deeply. I’ve never felt more love for my hubby, my family, my girlfriends—and myself. Babies do that, I guess. Motherhood has also made me really appreciate the relationship I have with my own mom.

Q: And now you’re pregnant and due in July. What was it like to find out you were pregnant after so much heartache, including multiple miscarriages? That must have been hard to wrap your mind around.

Yes, it’s been very surreal. I haven’t wrapped my mind around it yet. Anyone who has struggled through infertility can relate to the sheer panic you feel once you finally do achieve that positive pregnancy test. And after suffering several miscarriages, the only way I know to manage the anxiety of a pregnancy is to completely detach. I hate that infertility brings out those unhealthy defense mechanisms. But it does. I think I’ll probably wrap my mind around this pregnancy after it’s over, and our new baby is here and breathing.

Q: Can you tell us the baby’s sex?

It’s another boy. And we don’t have a name yet. Feel free to suggest one. And maybe we’ll use it.

Q: How do you feel about having two kids so close together? Do you feel like an experienced mom? After all, you just exited the sleepless phase!

I’d be full of it if I told you I wasn’t a little scared to have two babies so close together! But we’re really excited. I’ve heard a lot of moms say they worried they wouldn’t love their second child as much as their first. I guess I have a those feelings too. But I am just so damn grateful to be pregnant. We wanted kids for so long, so you’ll never hear us complain about having them so close together.

I’m not nervous about labor and delivery. I’m nervous about breastfeeding. And I’m a little nervous about mothering a one-year-old and a newborn—operating on very little sleep. But we have a huge support system of family and friends to help. I know we’ll be A-OK.

I’m most excited for our son to have a sibling—a little brother. I think it’s going to be really cool for them to grow up so close in age.

And does anyone ever feel like an experienced mom? I think you could have 10 kids and still question your parenting. It definitely helps to have just gone through the infant stage—I think I still remember the basics.

Q: How will you celebrate your first Mother’s Day?

We’re having a moms-only-brunch at Emerald City in Champaign (if you haven’t tried their Sunday brunch, you’re missing out!) for my mom, grandma and aunts. And then I’m planning on spending time with my hubby and our son at my in-law’s house.

I’ll be thinking a lot about our son’s birth mom. She and I have a really special bond and there isn’t a day that goes by that I don’t think of her—especially a day like Mother’s Day.

And I’ll probably be peeing a lot. I’m almost 9 months pregnant, so my bathroom breaks are very frequent these days.

Q: Do you promise to let us know how you are doing when your new baby arrives? You know how much we love you!

I promise. I’m sensitive to those still being treated for infertility. And mine—the story about the lady who adopts a baby and then gets pregnant one month later—is a story I would have rolled my eyes at just a few short months ago. But I promise to share the happy news this summer—if you all promise not to roll your eyes.

Q: Our readers love you and cheered you on during your trials and triumphs while you struggled to have a baby. What would you like to say to them?

Thank you. Thank you. A million times over, thank you. The last few years were rough, but I had so much support–from complete strangers. And that was a beautiful thing.