November 18, 2005

Number 78

............................................................................................................................................................................................................................

Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley

The Back Fence

Upcoming Events

Our Sponsors

...................................................

........................................................................................................

.....................................................

By Karen E. Klein
Boy, I sure am glad to be back chatting with you over my "virtual back fence" this fine November Friday. Hasn't the weather been

gorgeous? Isn't it great that Thanksgiving is coming up next week? Don't you just love life?

You'll have to forgive me if I'm a tad giddy. I've been feeling that way since recovering from surgery on Nov. 2. Yes, I had to have some body parts removed and it wasn't very pretty. Really, it wasn't: I even have the pictures to prove it. Yikes!

I'm not typically one to revel in physical ailments or medical difficulties. My family kept health problems so private that they were practically state secrets, and I'm inclined to do the same. Especially since I married into a family that delights in discussing the gory and the gruesome. Standard dinner table conversation amongst my in-laws always includes the nostalgic recounting of especially difficult hospital stays and the latest news from recent doctor's visits. It still makes me shudder, every time.

But I will give you a few (hopefully non-gory) details because I learned some valuable information on this medical odyssey and I hope maybe some of my insights may one day be useful to you.

First valuable lesson: Get a second opinion. You hear this all the time, and you don't take it that seriously. At least I didn't. But it really, really is true, especially in this world of HMOs, impersonal insurance providers and industrialized medicine. Here's the deal: I had a plum-sized tumor on my left ovary, which was located by ultrasound after I went to my doctor in horrible pain back in August. She picked a gynecologist seemingly at random off my insurance list and I made an appointment, even though I didn't know this doctor and had no personal referral to her.

The doctor immediately suggested a total abdominal hysterectomy. Not to get too graphic, but that involves fully invasive surgery with a "bikini" incision, a couple-day hospital stay and removal of all the reproductive organs, leading to the almost instant onset of surgical menopause. While the ultrasound report suggested that the mass was "probably endometriosis," this doctor also started talking seriously about ovarian cancer, mid-surgical biopsies and mentioned three times in 10 minutes that she had a patient currently hospitalized with ovarian cancer who wasn't doing well. Boy, just what I needed to hear.

I left her office rather shell-shocked. When I tried to ask a follow-up question about a blood test, this doctor snapped, "You already asked me that!" and then spat out the answer to my apparently dumb inquiry. Full-on abdominal surgery was needed to remove the tumor (and presumably the left ovary and fallopian tube) in my case, she said, because a smaller incision wouldn't be a safe way to remove the tumor if it proved to be malignant.

Here comes lesson number two: The Internet can be a wonderful tool and it can also scare you to death, so be careful how you use it. I got home and immediately started on my online research, trained medical professional that I am (not). The upside of my research showed quite quickly that endometriosis is these days routinely removed through what's called laparoscopic, or "minimally invasive" surgery. The doctor makes several very small incisions and operates with micro-instruments and a camera that's inserted into the abdominal cavity. The benefits include less scarring, shorter recovery time and outpatient status for the surgery, meaning that if things go well, you can go home that day, rather than staying in the hospital for several days. The downside of my research, when I Googled "ovarian cancer," was a Website whose first words were these: "A cancer that is nearly always fatal."

Whoops! That wasn't so nice to hear.

Lesson three: Keep on networking, even if you're a full-time mom and not interested in re-entering the job market anytime soon. By networking, I don't necessarily mean going to business meetings and handing out your business card. I mean stay in touch with friends, neighbors and other smart people who can give you good advice when you may least suspect you'll need it (and vice versa). Don't get so isolated raising your family that you lose touch with old friends all together. I wracked my brain for women I knew who'd had endometriosis and oophorectomy, and women I knew with medical training and jobs in local hospitals and doctor's offices, and women who are just smart and savvy generally, and I started calling and emailing them. "Get a second opinion!" they all chorused.

One of them, my ex-neighbor, referred me to a gynecologist she'd heard raves about: Dr. Deborah Yu of Arcadia. "She's supposed to be wonderful, you can talk to her about anything and she's incredibly smart," my old friend said. I wrote the name down, and the next day confirmed that Dr. Yu was one of 10 gynecologists on my HMO approved physicians' list. Long story short, my husband and I went to see her and we fell in love with her instantly. She took one look at my ultrasound report and said, "I'm not worried. This is a big, ugly endometrioma." She also recommended the most conservative approach possible: Removal of the tumor, and the ovary and tube if necessary, but preservation of all my other reproductive organs and the vital hormones they produce, so I would undergo natural menopause sometime down the road, when my body was ready. I liked the sound of that.

Of course, Dr. Yu did inform me of the possibility of cancer, made arrangements for a tissue biopsy to be done and discussed the worst-case scenario with me. But she wasn't a scaremonger and she gave me concrete information about why my tumor didn't "look" like cancer on the ultrasound. Indeed, it was nothing more than endometriosis, as she expected, and she successfully removed it and the ovary on Nov. 2nd at Arcadia Methodist Hospital.

Lesson four: Arcadia Methodist is a wonderful facility. I had my children at Huntington Memorial Hospital, my husband's been a patient there and we've always been very impressed with the professionalism of the institution. So, I wasn't sure how Methodist would measure up. I'm happy to say it is top-notch, the staff is friendly and warm and everyone there seemed to be eminently competent.

What most impressed me was the redundancy built into the system. For instance, I was not asked once whether I had medical allergies, I was asked at least five times - by my doctor, by my anesthesiologist, by the surgical nurse, by the admissions officer and by the outpatient nurse supervisor. Wait - it was six times. Even the volunteer who walked me over to outpatient surgery asked me! Ditto for several other crucial questions and pieces of information that I needed to know, like "don't eat or drink anything after midnight the day of surgery." The outpatient nurse even took a marker and wrote "yes" on the left side of my stomach, to make sure that the correct ovary would be removed! The only way to compensate for inevitable human error is to put rigorous redundancy into the system, and Arcadia Methodist follows that credo to the letter. I was impressed.

So, what about the first doctor, the one who'd scared me and denied that laparoscopic surgery could be done in my case? When I talked to her after getting the second opinion, she backed off that claim. "I'm just not very good with the laser," she admitted, explaining that laparoscopy wasn't covered in her medical school curriculum and she'd never mastered the technique. When I explained that I understood it was possible and preferred it in my case, she immediately backed down and suggested I seek another physician. By that time, I already had one in mind. But if I hadn't been proactive, I might still be recovering from major surgery, not to mention liable for 10% of a hefty hospital bill. (I found out that my insurance covers 100% of outpatient surgeries, but only 90% of inpatient surgeries.) That would have been a major price to pay for not being an informed, assertive patient - so let that be a lesson for you, too.

Okay, enough medical discussion (I can hear a bunch of you saying "Whew!" right now). Brad got a great question recently and I'm going to offer it up here and then throw it back onto all of you, the wise readers of The Orange Cat, for your thoughts. A reader sent in an email last week that went like this, "My friend and I have preschool age children and would love to show them ways to give their time towards others this holiday season (and always) but especially during the season when so many do not have. Would you mind sharing any ideas you may have for this subject?"

Well, first I'd say that your impulse is a great one. But getting a preschooler to devote any length of time to something (even something really fun) is not going to be easy. Kids in this age group typically have notoriously short attention spans and get bored with any one topic or activity quickly (except maybe for videos or computer games that are especially mesmerizing). So, don't get too ambitious about having your preschool child spend a lot of time helping others in a structured program. For instance, I've taken my kids to soup kitchens and community centers to help serve food before going to family Thanksgiving dinners, and that's really had an impact on them when they see how many people don't have the means to purchase their own feast for the holidays. But I would wait until a child is at least second or third grade level before trying that. A preschooler would not be helpful at those kinds of events and might even be a hindrance to the smooth operation of the dinner.

I think, rather than having a child spend a great deal of time doing "philanthropy" in one sitting, it's nice to make thinking about other people a part of everyday life, so they will grow up incorporating an attitude of concern without even realizing it. You can do that all the time, not just during the holidays, by directing your child to consider what other people think, feel, need and care about. This mindset does not come easily to some children, who tend to be very self-focused, but there are others who seem to naturally have tender hearts and do care a great deal about people other than themselves. Either type of child can be encouraged to consider other people if you make a point of that. When a child brings home an art project, for instance, ask if they're like to give it to an elderly neighbor who doesn't have grandchildren.

There are myriad programs at this time of year, certainly, that collect food, toys and other gifts to donate to needy families, or children whose parents are incarcerated. Look for such a program - Toys for Tots, for example, or something sponsored by your child's preschool or your church - and then explain that your family is going to participate. When your child is at the grocery store with you, don't just throw an extra can of creamed corn in your basket. Have your child help select the food that you'll give to the family that's struggling financially. Get your preschooler really interested in picking out her favorite food and donating it. Or when you're shopping for presents, instead of allowing your child to focus on all the things on his Christmas list, direct him instead to help pick out a toy for another child who won't be getting as many presents as he will.

As I said, this doesn't come easy to a lot of children. My kids are not the naturally compassionate sort and I still wish they had more concern for others, despite years of thoughtful effort on my part. As they get older, however, they do start to notice discrepancies in wealth and injustices on their own, and I think becoming aware of it for themselves brings home the idea of helping in the most effective way.

Here's one program you can participate in as a family: The Charles Cherniss Tournament of Toys is a local charitable effort that benefits needy children throughout the San Gabriel Valley. Your child can buy a toy or book and bring it, unwrapped, to Smith Alley near Il Fornaio at the One Colorado shopping plaza in Pasadena. If they bring their item to the Christmas tree lighting at the plaza on Friday, Nov. 25 between 6:30 and 9 p.m., they'll get a free photo with Santa. Anybody else got some thoughts on involving your young children in charitable efforts for the holidays - or any time? If you do, please send me your suggestions and I'll publish them here next time so we can all benefit.

Thanks, and a wonderful Thanksgiving to you and your family next week. I know I'll be having a great time this year. I'm especially thankful for Brad, who valiantly picked up my Orange Cat duties and ran with them beautifully (thanks, partner!), and for my husband and boys, who waited on me hand and foot, pampered me and cheered me up. You guys are the best! Don't forget to send me your ideas for getting kids involved in holiday giving. Email me at Karen@theorangecat.org and I'll list all the suggestions I get here next time. See you then.

Dates and times subject to change; activities free unless noted; phone numbers provided if reservations are requested; please note age ranges on some activities. Also, see our special printable calendar, especially for readers of The Orange Cat.

Friday, Nov. 18, 2005

Movies: Linda Vista Branch Library 3 p.m. Children's movies. 1281 Bryant St., Pasadena.

Saturday, Nov. 19, 2005

Interactive Concert: University of La Verne Kids Music Club 10 a.m. Kids experience the art of storytelling through music. In Founders Auditorium. More info, 909-593-3511 ext. 4921. 1950 Third Street, La Verne.

Book Feast: Monrovia Public Library 11 a.m. and 2 p.m. Pilgrims of all ages are invited to a Thanksgiving-themed hour of holiday stories, songs, film, refreshments, and crafts. 321 S. Myrtle Ave., Monrovia.

Comedy and Pet Theatre: Haugh Performing Arts Center, Citrus College 11:30 a.m. 1:30, 3:30 p.m. Three shows will be presented by Russian juggler Gregory Popovich and his motley collection of stray cats and dogs adopted from animal shelters. The presentation includes animal tricks, juggling, acrobatics and comedy. Tickets: $6; all ages. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

A Trip to Japan: Norton Simon Museum 1 p.m. Visit Japan through the eyes of artists, and then make your own kite in this program for children and families. Free with museum admission of $8 adults; free under 18. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Thanksgiving Centerpiece: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids create a Thanksgiving centerpiece. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Menagerie: Pasadena Central Library 10 a.m. Pacific Animal Productions is back with a monster menagerie; real animals that are monster-ously long and have monster-sized tongues, or some other bit of monster in them. For the whole family. Sponsored by the Friends of the Library. 285 East Walnut Street, Pasadena.

Saturday Storytime: Stone Center for Children's Books 10 a.m. Thanksgiving stories for kids and their parents. Claremont Graduate University, 740 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Being Grateful: Huntley Bookstore 10 a.m. Stories about being thankful are followed by craft-making and goodies on the patio. Information: 909-607-3208. 175 E. Eighth St., Claremont.

Armenian Family Festival: Santa Catalina Library 3 p.m. Storytime in the Armenian language featuring marionettes, then traditional Armenian treats. Children will make their own marionette. 999 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena.

Thanksgiving Centerpiece Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Kids create a Thanksgiving centerpiece. Supplies provided. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Dance Lessons: Kidspace Museum 11 a.m. Award-winning children's entertainer, Joanie Bartels, will dance and offer a dance workshop to help children learn flashy dance steps. Bring dancing shoes. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Mini-Iron Chef: Kidspace Museum 12 p.m. - 2 p.m. Fall festival Mini-Iron Chef Challenge with a guest chef from Wolfgang Puck Catering. Limited space. Sign up early. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Green Gifts: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Gardens 12 to 3 p.m. Learn to make pressed-flower gift cards, leaf-rubbing gift wrap, bird feeders, tree ornaments and other garden gifts. $15 per child, no charge for accompanying adult. Information: 909-625-8767 x224. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

20th Annual Elves’ Faire: Pasadena Waldorf School 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. Holiday gifts, music, hands-on crafts, games for all ages, dancing, bake shoppe, silent auction and more. Information: 626-794-9564. 209 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

Sunday, Nov. 20, 2005

Bird Walk: Eaton Canyon Nature Center 8 a.m. Join us outdoors for a three hour bird walk. Meet at the building; bring binoculars, shade hat and water. Please, no dogs. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Bridging the Communication Gap: The Integrated Mother 4:30 p.m. Dr. Beth Halbert, of Compassionate Parenting, speaks on how parents can listen so teens will talk and how teens can talk so parents will listen. Participants will have a chance to interact with Dr. Beth, a child psychologist, speaker, author and songwriter. For parents of tweens, teens, young adults and even younger children. Kids welcome. Reservations and information: 626-463-1432. Pasadena Enterprise Center, 1015 N. Lake Ave., Pasadena.

Tuesday, Nov. 22, 2005

Turkey Time: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:30 p.m. Some gobble, gobble book fun, a craft, and a snack. For ages 6-12 years old. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasdena.

Gobble!: Villa Parke Community Center Library 4:30 p.m. Children make a lovely but funny Thanksgiving conversation piece. All ages welcome. Craft supplies will be provided. 363 E. Villa Street, Pasadena.

Friday, Nov. 25, 2005

Tree Lighting Ceremony: One Colorado Courtyard 6 p.m. Join Olympic Champion John Naber, Santa Claus and the 88th Rose Queen for holiday sing-a-long, Christmas tree lighting and the kick-off of the Charles Cherniss Tournament of Toys. Free hot chocolate and cookies; immediately following the ceremony is a concert by the Retro Boomer Band. Colorado Boulevard between Union, Fair Oaks and DeLacey, Pasadena.

Saturday, Nov. 26, 2005

Holiday Placemat Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Vibrant holiday placemats that kids design and create. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Sunday, Nov. 27, 2005

Stories in the Afternoon: Norton Simon Museum 2 p.m. Pumpkins, corn, bumblebees and worms make lively neighbors in this story hour for children and families held in the Museum's gallerie. Free with museum admission of $8 adults; free under 18. 411 W. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Friday, Dec. 2, 2005

Linda's Wondrous Violin: Shumei Hall 12:30 p.m. Linda Wang is a violinist who made her solo debut with the New York Philharmonic under Zubin Mehta when she was nine. She will present a celebration of violin music from the 17th century to the present, while talking about the history of the violin and its wondrous capabilities. Information/reservations: 626-584-8841. 2430 E. Colorado Avd., Pasadena.

Tree Lighting: Paseo Colorado 6-9 p.m. Join Mayor Bill Bogard, a singing Santa, the Pasadena Jazz Institute and the Hollywood Master Chorale for the lighting of the city's Christmas tree. Colorado Boulevard and Garfield Avenue, Pasadena.

Oliver!: Pasadena Junior Theatre 7 p.m. Children's theater troupe presents the Dickens classic over this weekend and next at various performance times. For specific and ticket details, call 626-577-5922 or email: tickets@pasadenajuniortheatre.org. First Baptist Church of Pasadena, 75 N. Marengo Ave., Pasadena.

Saturday, Dec. 3, 2005

Build a Snowman Place Card Holder: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Every child can find his or her place at the table with a snowman that doubles as a place card holder. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena.

Holiday Show: Citrus Little Theatre 11 a.m. and 1 p.m. Original Christmas mystery features super-sleuth kids who set out to solve the theft of Santa's Christmas list. Two performances by the Citrus Theatre Arts Department. $5. 1000 W. Foothill Blvd., Glendora.

Family Adventures: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden 2-4 p.m. Family wreath-making class is fun for families and kids of all ages. $20 per family; rain cancels. Information: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Holiday Bazaar Fundraiser: MOMS Club of Pasadena 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Some 30 home-based businesses will offer specialty items for sale, with proceeds going to provide school uniforms for students in need at San Rafael Elementary School in Pasadena. Operation School Bell, an Assistance League of Pasadena program, will outfit the children with money raised. Information: 626-577-9001. Hamilton Elementary School, 2089 Rose Villa, Pasadena.

Hansel & Gretel: Intimate Opera Company 2 p.m. The Intimate Opera Company of Arcadia will present multiple San Gabriel Valley performances of Humperdinck’s version of the classic fairy tale. This holiday production is suitable for the entire family. Tickets: $20, $12, $10; 800-888-7287. Additional performances will be held in Claremont and Monrovia this month. Email TheWENDELL@aol.com for exact dates, times and locations. Packard Hall, Westminster Gardens, 1420 Santo Domingo Ave., Duarte.

Register Early

Craft Day: Cafe Culture Make maracas with papier mache, watch "The Grinch Who Stole Christmas" and enjoy punch and cookies on Sunday, Dec. 4 at 1:30 p.m. $15; bring your own smock or apron. Reservations: 626-398-8654 or email marcielle@dslextreme.com. 1359 Altadena Blvd., Pasadena.

Mystical Music: CalTech Beckman Auditorium Concert features dance and songs from the sacred musical traditions of Judaism, Sufism (Islamic mystical tradition) and the Christian Armenian Church. Composer and world-music record producer Yuval Ron discusses the ancient and deep inter-cultural connection between the three traditions and the musical influences they share. To be held on Friday, Dec. 2 at 10 a.m. $5. Call 626-395-6059 to reserve seats for your school group. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena.

Acorn Festival: Rancho Santa Ana Botanic Garden Fall is a time of harvest and festivities for Southern California Indians. The Tongva still gather, and you are invited to come and join in the celebration on Sunday, Nov. 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Tickets $5 per person, $20 per family. Register: 909-625-8767 x224. 1500 N. College Ave., Claremont.

Festive Origami: Huntington Library Youngsters can explore the art of Japanese paper folding with a holiday twist, as origami expert Peggy Hasagawa shares some colorful ideas for creating unique handmade gifts, ornaments, and decorations. Program will be held on Saturday, Dec. 10 from 9 to 11:30 a.m. Ages 7 and up, with adult. $15. Registration: 626-405-2128. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Polar Express Party: Arcadia Public Library Climb aboard for a holiday party, including games, crafts and storytime featuring "The Polar Express." To be held Saturday, Dec. 10, 2:30 p.m. for ages 5-10. Free tickets will be available beginning Dec. 3, Arcadia residents: 10 a.m. to noon, open registration noon forward. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia.

Continuing Activities

Montrose Harvest Market: Weekly farmer's market includes giant slide, obstacle course bouncer and 25-foot portable rock climbing wall. Sundays, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Information: 818-957-3809. Montrose Shopping Park, Honolulu Ave. and Ocean View Blvd, Montrose.

Sierra Madre Public Library: Two Preschool story hours are held each week in the Children's Room. Mondays at 10 a.m., and Wednesdays at 7 p.m. Cathy Ryne, children's librarian, tells stories, sings songs, and organizes craft projects. 626-355-7186. 440 W. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

MOMS Club of Pasadena-North Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena (north of 210 fwy) and Altadena. For more information please e-mail: membershipnorth@pasadenamomsclub.com .

MOMS Club of LaVerne Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. .

Adventuring Preschool Playgroup: We are moms of preschoolers in the San Gabriel Valley, exploring different free museums, parks and taking field trips together. We meet Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Call Michelle for information: 626-335-3042 or email: butlig@integrity.com .

Huntington Hospital: Perinatal Health Education department offers ongoing classes and support groups for new moms, including breastfeeding Thursdays 10 to 11:30 a.m.; Mommy & Me Tuesdays 9:30 to 11:30 a.m.; Postnatal Fitness Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays, 5:45 to 6 p.m.; Baby & Me; infant care; and infant/child CPR. Some classes involve fees. Information and registration: 626-397-8768. .

Monrovia Family Festival: 5 to 9 p.m. Fridays. Games, food, rides, shopping and farmer's market. Myrtle Ave south of Foothill Blvd, Monrovia.

MOMS Club of Covina & West Covina Support group meets regularly for playdates, walking groups, parties for stay-at-home moms or part-time working moms seeking daytime activities for children of all ages. Serves mothers in Covina, West Covina. New member meetings held at 10:30 a.m. on the last Tuesday of every month. Information: email admin@momsclubcovina.com. Our club has no religious affiliations. Saint Louise de Marllac Catholic Church, at Covina Blvd. and Bonnie Cove, Covina.

Vroman's Book Store: 10 a.m. Wednesdays and Saturdays. Storytime with Mr. Steve features contemporary and classic tales read aloud. Ages 2 to 8. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

Eaton Canyon Nature Center Family nature walk held every Saturday morning, weather permitting, 9 to 11 a.m. Walking shoes, sunscreen, water, hats are recommended for this guided walk geared toward families with small children. Meet in front of the building. 626-398-5420. 1750 N. Altadena Dr., Pasadena.

Pasadena Central Library and its branches offer 15 storytimes each week, for infants through age 8. All programs are free, some require pre-registration. Check website for schedules. .

Pasadena Central Library: Short preschool videos shown every Friday at 10 a.m. in the Donald R. Wright Auditorium. Central Library, 285 E. Walnut St., Pasadena.

The Huntington Library Nature activities are scheduled on Saturdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. Kids of all ages can explore the world of nature at hands-on plant discovery carts located at the Lily Ponds, Desert Garden and Japanese Garden. Older kids can examine plant cross-sections under a microscope, learn how plants and animals use camouflage, compare soil and water samples, or look for local wildlife using a field guide. Younger children can make leaf rubbings, examine seed pods, create origami, or experience “a bug’s life” through insect puppet play. On the first Saturday of each month, nature crafts are also offered near the entrance pavilion. No reservations required; free with museum admission. $15 adults, $12 seniors (65+), $10 students (ages 12-18 or with student I.D.), $6 for youth (ages 5-11), free for children under 5. Information: 626-405-2100. 1151 Oxford Road, San Marino.

Glendora Public Library Story times for kids 3-5 are held Tuesdays and Wednesday, 10:30-11 a.m.; infants and toddlers Thursdays 10:30-10:45 a.m. PJ family story time at 7 p.m. each Wednesday offers a half hour of magical stories, songs and fingerplays. A great alternative to TV! Information: 626-852-4891. Children's Room, 140 S. Glendora Ave., Glendora.

South Pasadena Public Library: Family Storytime is offered Tuesdays, 7:30 p.m.; Pajama and Preschool storytimes for ages 3-5, Wednesdays 7 p.m. and Thursdays 10:30 a.m.; Toddler storytime for ages 1-2, Fridays 10:30 a.m.; ages 2-3, Fridays 11 a.m. 1100 Oxley St., South Pasadena.

San Marino Public Library: Weekly preschool story time for 3- to 5-year-olds offered on Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m.; Tuesdays at 3:30 for 5- to 8-year-olds. Call 626-300-0777 to register. 1890 Huntington Dr., San Marino.

Mrs. Nelson's Storytimes: Pajama Storytime Fridays at 6 p.m. All ages welcome Saturdays at 11 a.m. Register: 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne.

Alhambra Public Library Pajama Story Time, for ages 3 to 10. Stories, finger plays, songs, films and crafts. Wednesdays at 7 p.m. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra.

Terrific Twosomes Mothers of Multiples: San Gabriel Valley-based, non-profit support organization exists as a forum for parents of twins, triplets, quadruplets and higher multipes to come together to exchange everything from advice to outgrown baby clothing! We meet on the second Tuesday evening of each month; see website for details on meeting place and time. .

Fibromyalgia Support Group: A free support-and-information group for fibromyalgia sufferers and their families meets every third Friday of the month, 5-6:30 p.m. Reservations required. The group facilitator, Charles Yarborough, is a licensed acupuncturist specializing in pain syndromes. Information: 626-319-8725. 1028 N. Lake Ave. Suite 108 Pasadena.

Healthy Eating Lifestyle Program: Ongoing, five-session nutritional and exercise workshop is designed to help families with kids who are at risk for being overweight. Classes include smart shopping tips, family meal planning advice, creating simple recipes, games, parties and activities for kids aged 5 to 12 and their entire families. Sessions held on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to noon, and Monday and Tuesday nights from 6 to 8 p.m. Families must register and complete medical screening in order to attend. Contact health educator Kam Miller at 626-397-3660 or via email: healthy.eating@huntingtonhospital.com Huntington Hospital, 100 W. California Blvd., Pasadena.

The Bunny Museum: See the world's largest collection of bunnies and bunny artifacts, with more than 20,000 items on display. Private home is open for tours by appointment every day of the year. No appointment needed on most holidays. Call for schedule: 626-798-8848. 1933 Jefferson Dr., Pasadena.

MOMS Club of San Dimas: Support group meets regularly for play dates, park days, storytimes, coffees and field trips. Various locations; check online calendar for dates, times. .

Gymboree: Play, music and art classes offered on an ongoing basis. Free trial classes for new families. Information on classes: 626-445-1122; parties: 626-445-5161. 518 W. Huntington Dr., Monrovia.

Parents Without Partners Covina Valley chapter of single-parent group holds orientation meeting and dance on the second Friday of each month, 7:30 p.m. to midnight. Call for information and location: 626-294-3211. .

Sierra Madre Moms Club Support group for mothers and their kids meets every fourth Wednesday from noon to 1:30 p.m., all welcome. The group also sponsors play groups and park dates. Serves residents of Sierra Madre, Monrovia, Arcadia, Temple City and Duarte. Information: email Paulimorin@earthlink.net Sierra Madre Community Center, 611 E. Sierra Madre Blvd., Sierra Madre.

Hurst Ranch: Living history ranch is open to the public on the second Saturday of each month from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Information: 626-813-0116. 1227 S. Orange Ave., West Covina.

MOMS Club of Pasadena Support group for stay-at-home moms meets regularly for all-member meetings, speakers, interest groups, playdates and much more. Serving Pasadena, South Pasadena, San Marino and Ahambra. For more information please e-mail: membershipvp@pasadenamomsclub.com .

Kidspace Children's Museum: Where else can kids dig, learn about fossils and the evolution of earthquakes, ride trikes and climb 40 feet into the air? Museum exhibits highlight the arts, sciences and humanities in a manner that promotes exploration, investigation and expression. Open 9:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily, closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year's Day. Admission: $8 for adults and children; under 1 free. 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena.

Mothers and More Pasadena: Support group meets regularly for moms-only coffees and lunches focused on career planning, transitions to paid work and challenges or opportunities with current employment. Chapter meetings occur first and third Thursdays of the month at 7:30 p.m. and are open to visitors. Group also sponsors Moms’ Nights Out, book club and playgroups. Information: mothersandmore@onebox.com, or 866-206-9068, x3921. Polytechnic School, Boswell Library, 1030 E. California Blvd, Pasadena.

Take the Baby and Run: Bring your baby and your stroller for a great one-hour workout. Held Monday through Friday at 9:30 a.m. Information: 818-517-3082. Mention The Orange Cat and get your first class free. Lacy Park, San Marino.

Child Care Information Service: Referrals to licensed child care providers are available to all families, regardless of income. Referrals are random, based on geographic area, ages of the children and availability of child care spaces. Cities served are Altadena, Arcadia, Duarte, La Canada, Monrovia, Sierra Madre, South Pasadena, Pasadena and San Marino. .

Kids Island Parenting classes, infant play area, arts and crafts, music and dance studios, open play times and children's parties are offered at this indoor center for children six months to eight years. Call for information/admission prices: 626-447-8003. 1313 S. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

MOMS Club of Azusa: Meetings held monthly are open to all stay-at-home moms from Azusa. Children welcome at meetings, which are held on the last Wednesday of every month 11 a.m. Information: MOMSCLUB@aol.com or Summerlh@earthlink.net. Azusa City Library, auditorium, 729 N. Dalton Ave., Azusa.

Alhambra Farmer's Market: Certified Farmers' Market is held 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. every Sunday. Monterey Street, Alhambra.

Victory Park Community Center: "Single Mommy and Me" group meets on Mondays from 10 to 11 a.m. for fun and friendship. For information, email founder Dianne Duncan: webeduncans@charter.net. 2575 Paloma St., Pasadena.

Pasadena City College: Registration continues year-round for Parent Education courses, which feature parent-child interaction, playtime, crafts, songs and parenting advice and information from seasoned instructors. Classes available for infants through per-Kindergarten and their parents or caregivers. Some multiple-child classes and special Dad's evening courses available. Information: 626-585-3038. Classes held at various San Gabriel Valley locations.

Los Angeles County Arboretum: Garden Sprouts program invites kids ages 5-8 to plant and tend a garden, play nature games and learn gardening crafts. This is a drop-off program held on the first Saturday of each month from October through June, 9-11 a.m. $30/quarter or $12 per Saturday. Information: email lisa.beach@arboretum.org or telephone 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia.

Amy's Playground Indoor playground features 3,000-square-foot play area with maze, bouncer, infant area and free weekly crafts. Must wear socks to enter. Monday through Friday, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.; call for weekend availability. Adults free; kids two and older $8; siblings and kids under 2, $6. 1115 Mission St., South Pasadena.

Altadena Public Library: Reading club, weekly musical shows, kids' workshops and activities. Check Web site for times, dates. 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena.

GymnastiKids: Gymnastics classes for all ages in a non-competitive, fun-filled environment. Safe and fun classses are taught by energetic instructors. Free trial classes offered. Information: 626-796-KIDS. 2237 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena.

The Little Gym: Features non-competitive motor skill development sessions for fitness and fun. Information: 818-249-4496. 2196 Foothill Blvd., La Canada.

Are you aware of a great event or venue that we're not listing? If so, please let us know so we can include it in the next Orange Cat. Email: karen@theorangecat.org.

...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................

| Visit us online |

© Copyright 2005, KBN Publishing Inc., 332 N. Magnolia Ave., Monrovia, CA 91016

...........................................................................................................................................................................................................................