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February 29, 2008 |
Number 134 |
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Calendar, Advice & Tips for Busy Families in the San Gabriel Valley | |||||||||||||||
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By Robert Johnson My teenage daughter and I had just finished a ten-minute yelling match. Now I'm not talking about a yelling match as my wife would define yelling, which This Space Available is simply talking louder than regular conversational volume. When I talk about yelling I mean shouting at a volume that will give you a hoarse throat if you keep it up. Really loud. The bout left me mentally depressed and physically exhausted, but still furious. As I recall, it had begun earlier in the day in the car when I had requested that my daughter shut her window since I had the air conditioner on. In response I got insults and sneers. I had been getting this attitude more and more lately. Then, later that evening the yelling errupted. I don't remember what triggered it, but I got the same kind of spit-in-your face response. And so I was depressed. It seemed so hopeless. I had tried to speak politely but just got burned for my effort. I asked myself if I had been at fault in starting the tempest, but couldn't find anything I had done wrong. I might have dug deeper to try to find out how it was my fault, but I have enough things I'm really guilty of without inventing more. While I didn't light the bomb, I did realize that I had seriously mishandled the situation after it exploded. It struck me like a revelation that all my yelling was an utter and complete waste of time, and I resolved firmly not to do it again. Now, the futility of yelling is something any junior psychologist could have told me (Hey! I could have told myself), but somehow the fact never entirely sunk in. I guess that in a strange, dysfunctional way, yelling is just easier. PEN So anyway, I approached her again and told her - while disregarding all the rude comments I received in the process - that from then on I was going to stop yelling, and if I thought her behavior needed discipline, "I will simply tell you what the punishment will be, though I may not tell you immediately as I may need to think about what it will be. I may or may not give you any warning that you are in danger of receiving a punishment. In most cases I will not debate my decision with you." And I remember that exactly because I wrote it down, and left a copy in her room for reference. In the letter I listed some of the possible punishments I had in mind:
- No use of the home telephone. And I concluded: "I really do not want to use any of these punishments on you. I want nothing but the best for you. I think overall you are a wonderful girl and I love you very much, and I'm sorry I have to do this." And then I prepared myself for battle. My wife and I are pretty wimpy and sloppy when it comes to discipline, but not this time. That night I was suited up in my emotional armor and ready for battle the next day. But, to my surprise, the battle never came. My daughter greeted me at breakfast. She gave me a kiss goodbye when she headed out to school. She was polite and friendly when she got home, and pretty much that's the way it has been ever since, and it has been about four months so far. Notice that I said that it has "pretty much" been good? There have been a few small incidents, but they really have been small and only once did it even come close to considering locking her out of Facebook for a few days. What happened? Well, I don't know for sure, but it seems my daughter simply realized that I was (and still am) as serious as a paper cut. I'm hoping things continue the way they're going, because they're going very well and I love her very much and really don't want to fight. But by golly, if there's going to be a fight, I'm ready!
Robert Johnson is the pseudonym for a San Gabriel Valley dad who wanted to tell this story without getting into big trouble at home.
A note from Karen: As I'm sure you've noticed, our Orange Cat has been getting a little fat lately, and one of our kind readers (Sebastien, of the American School Of Laughter Yoga) suggested we might want to move the Continuing Events section of the newsletter to our website rather than sending it out each issue. Seemed like a good idea to us, especially as we've just added a bunch more continuing events, so just click on the link at the bottom of the Events column to see a lot more great activities for your children. Karen@theorangecat.org. |
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, Feb. 29, 2008 Fun Flick Friday: Altadena Public Library 3:30 p.m. Join us in the main library community room for a special screening of "Ratatouille." 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena. Music, Mischief, Melodrama: Parson's Nose Professional Theater Company 7 p.m. An old coot and his silly servants are no match for a clever young lady and her beau. Come laugh at the silliness of old obsession and the craziness of young love. Additional performances: Saturday March 1 2 p.m. and 7 p.m.; Sunday, March 2, 2 p.m. $15 adults, $10 children 12 and under. Information and tickets available at the website. Under the Tent, 1507 El Centro, South Pasadena. This Space Available! Saturday, March 1, 2008 Wild Secrets: Caltech Beckman Auditorium 2 p.m. "Galapagos: Evolution at the Speed of Light," a high-definition film, will be presented followed by a live discussion with Caltech scientist Jasper Simon. The effect of El Niño weather patterns on wildlife has been documented worldwide for years, but scientists are now uncovering some startling new facts. $5. 332 S. Michigan Ave., Pasadena. Flumpa and Friends: Kidspace Museum 11 a.m. Join Weny the Sciestis and Flumpa the tree frog to the Stone Hollow Amphitheater. An interactive science adventure that exercises mind and body. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. Dr. Seuss Weekend: Kidspace Museum March 1 and 2. To honor Dr. Seuss' birthday, children are invited to come dressed as their favorite children's book character. Show off your costume at the Stone Hollow Amphitheater at 1:30 p.m. (each day) during a special storytime. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. Dr. Seuss' Birthday: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Storytime every hour, free crafts, face painting, games and activities. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Flowerpot: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children get ready for springtime by making a colorful "flowerpot." 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Sherri Smith: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 2 p.m. Author Sherri Smith presents her newest title, Hot, Sour, Salty, Sweet. Ana's father is Chinese American father and her mother is African American. On her eighth-grade graduation day, both sets of grandparents are in town to celebrate, and they can't agree about anything. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Robin Preiss Glasser presents and signs "Fancy Nancy: Bonjour, Butterfly" immediately after Storytime with Mr. Steve. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Butterfly Party: Vromans Hastings Ranch 7 p.m. Join us for a Butterfly Party as we kick-start our weekly Saturday evening storytime at Vroman's Hastings Ranch. We'll read stories and decorate butterfly wings to wear. 3729 E. Foothill Blvd, Pasadena. Monday, March 3, 2008 Brian Waite Band: Hastings Branch Library 7 p.m. - 7:45 p.m. Dance, learn and laugh with the trio that has rocked its way into the hearts of kids and parents as they lead a musical adventure to Earth's past and future. Also, March 4, 10-10:45 a.m. at the Central Library. 3325 E. Orange Grove Blvd., Pasadena. Wednesday, March 5, 2008 Music of Dolphins: West Covina Library 4 p.m. - 6 p.m. Kids' Book Club, for kids in grades 4 to 6, will discuss Bandit's Moon by Sid Fleischman. Sign up: 626-962-3541. 1601 West Covina Parkway, West Covina. Bandit's Moon: West Covina Library 4 p.m. The Kids' Book Club will talk about Bandit's Moon by Sid Fleischman, and enjoy snacks. 1601 West Covina Parkway, West Covina. Pasadena Area Kitchen and Bath Remodeling Teddy Bear Clinic: Altadena Public Library 11 a.m. Children of all ages are invited to bring their injured teddy bear (or other cuddly toy) to the library where a team of medical professionals from the Huntington Hospital will examine them. Ages 2-6. Main library community room, 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena. Thursday, March 6, 2008 Brian Waite Band: Arcadia Public Library 7 p.m. Come dance, learn and laugh with the trio that has rocked its way into the hearts of both kids and parents as you journey on a musical adventure to Earth's past and future! You’ll enjoy props, hilarious antics, and great tunes from all genres of music. Ages 3 and up. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Open House: Mothers and More Pasadena 7:30 p.m. Celebrating its 20th anniversary, organization hosts event for all mothers in the community to share their personal experiences as mothers and women, and to discuss how we would like mothers’ experiences to change in the future. The evening will allow mothers to reminisce about the past and share dreams about the future. The group will view results of a Mothers & More survey on how mothers’ feel society views their role today, and discuss how they want to see mothers viewed in the future. Ronald McDonald House, 763 S. Pasadena Ave., Pasadena. Author Lauren Myracle: Mrs. Nelson's Bookstore 3:30 p.m. Lauren Myracle will present her newest book, "13," her third book in a series about friendship and growing up in junior high. For more information please contact Christa at 909-599-4558. 1030 Bonita Ave., La Verne. Friday, March 7, 2008 Poetry Recital: Vromans Bookstore 6 p.m. Featuring third-grade students of Willard Magnet School. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Saturday, March 8, 2008 Knicknack Caddy: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children make a decorative box for storing all of their favorite keepsakes. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Happy Birthday Dr. Seuss: Vromans Bookstore 10:30 a.m. Join us to celebrate Dr. Seuss's 104th birthday! You can come dressed as your favorite Seuss character and we'll provide the activities, treats and lots of fun. Immediately following Storytime with Mr. Steve. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Sunday, March 9, 2008 Author Event: Vromans Bookstore 4 p.m. Liz Ruckdeschel discusses and signs "What If....Everyone Was Doing It" for teen readers. 695 E. Colorado Blvd., Pasadena. Tuesday, March 11, 2008 Shamrock Jam: La Pintoresca Branch Library 3:45 p.m. Listen to a shamrock tale, play fun games, make a craft, and enjoy a green treat. For children ages 5-12 years. Reservations required: (626)744-7268. 1355 N. Raymond Ave., Pasdena. Rags to Reels: Altadena Public Library 7 p.m. Irish folk dance group presents popular sing-along Irish music and step–dancing, accompanied by live music on such traditional Irish instruments as the tinwhistle and bodhran. Show also held Wednesday, March 12, 6:30 p.m. at Bob Lucas branch library. Main library community room, 600 E. Mariposa Ave., Altadena. Thursday, March 13, 2008 Caterpillar Adoption: Kidspace Museum This six-week program, starting March 13, invites children to adopt a live caterpillar and take it home to witness its metamorphosis into a beautiful painted butterfly. Adopt a caterpillar for $5, then, on Earth Day, April 19, come to Kidspace for the Grand Butterfly Release. Brookside Park, 480 N. Arroyo Blvd., Pasadena. Friday, March 14, 2008 Vision and Learning: Alhambra Public Library 10:30 a.m. Dr. Karen Chao will speak about identifying and seeking assistance for visual problems in children. 80% of learning is dependent upon vision, and one out of four children may have an undiagnosed vision problem. For more information, call Nancy Hoven at (626) 570-5079, extension 5616, or email: nancyh@alhambralibrary.org. 410 W.Main Street, Alhambra. Saturday, March 15, 2008 Kid’s Craft Day: Tree of Life Center 10 a.m. - noon. Crafts that appeal to children of all faiths and those who are not religious. $4 materials fee. Plus, puppet show and songs by Penelope Torribio for ages 5-12. Healthful snacks and at least three responsible adults present. Parents welcome. Meet other children and adults in the area. Contact Marcielle Brandler: marcielle@verizon.net, 626 355-0745, or 626 355-3802. 26 N. Oak Ave. Pasadena, CA 91107. Celtic Adventures: Arcadia Public Library 3:30 p.m. Come celebrate the wearin’ of the green with professional storyteller Rebecca Martin who will introduce you to giants, fairies, and brave heroes from the Highlands of Scotland and the Hills of Ireland. Ages 5 and up. 20 W. Duarte Rd., Arcadia. Egg-Celebration: West Covina Civic Center 9 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Craft Fair, Egg Hunts, Crafts for kids, Food, Entertainment, Photos with the Easter Bunny, and more. Egg Hunt Schedule: 11 a.m. - 2 to 3 year olds, 11:30 a.m. - 4 to 5 year olds, noon - 6 to 7 year olds, 12:30 p.m. - 8 years and older. Bring your own basket. 1444 W. Garvey Ave., West Covina. Lucky Rainbow Mobile: Lakeshore Learning Store 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. Children create a colorful mobile to brighten up their room. 3848 E. Foothill Blvd., Pasadena. Shin Dance: Pasadena Civic Auditorium 8:30 a.m. This program begins with a musical "petting zoo" of orchestra instruments followed by a performance especially for music lovers ages 2 to 10. This year features host Greggy Dee. Sponsored by the Pasadena Symphony Association. Pasadena Civic Auditorium, 300 E. Green St., Pasadena. St. Paddy Party: Monrovia Public Library 2 p.m. Celebrate the wearin’ o’ the green with librarian Annette Simpson presenting an hour of leprechaun and Irish stories, songs, games, crafts and snacks. K-5th grade. Santa Anita Family YMCA, 501 S. Mountain Ave, Monrovia.. Register Early Saturday, March 1, 2008 Dance and Music Classes: Miss Claire Dance and music classes for children ages 2 to 7 as well as classes for toddlers 1-2. Offered in San Gabriel, San Marino, South Pasadena and Sierra Madre. Register for spring sessions: 626-403-3828. 470 W. Walnut St.. Thursday, March 6, 2008 Music Tree: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden Music, storytelling, poetry, and dramatic play serve as a jumping off point for learning about nature in this parent-child class that meets for 10 Thursdays from March 6 through May 22. Children play simple instruments, dance, and sign songs about birds, turtles, insects, ponds, gardens and habitats. Ages 3-5; $214. Information: Laurel Beck, 626-398-7058 or email lifebloom@earthlink.net. Registration: 626-821-4623. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. Saturday, March 15, 2008 Parents Night Out: GymnastiKids 6-9 p.m. Need a night out?? Drop your child off for three hours of gymnastics fun and fitness. No experience necessary, ages 3 & above. $35 per child; $25 for siblings. Reservations: 626-796-5437. 2237 E. Colorado Blvd. B106, Pasadena. Wednesday, March 19, 2008 Monrovia Idol: Monrovia Public Library 7 p.m. Second annual teen talent competition is open to participants in 5th through 12 grades. Register: Denise Neujahr, 626-256-8274. Talents may include singing, dancing, reciting poetry, playing a musical instrument, performing a stand-up comedy routine, or performing a short skit. Solos, duets and group performances (of no more than four) are all welcome. Prizes will be awarded to the top three finalists. Family and friends are welcome to come and cheer their favorite participant. Monrovia Community Center, 119 W. Palm Ave., Monrovia. Saturday, March 29, 2008 Robot Workshop: Paintbox Kids 10:30 a.m. Create robots with recycled materials and creative thinking in this parent/child workshop open to all ages. $25. Registration: 626-808-0330 1383 E. Washington Blvd., Pasadena. Saturday, April 5, 2008 Garden Sprouts: Los Angeles County Arboretum & Botanic Garden We will be spending our days planting and tending our garden. After planting flowers and vegetables, we will learn about what makes your garden grow, have fun making garden crafts, and finally enjoying the food we grow. Class meets first and third Saturdays beginning in April at the Old Ranch Road entrance to The Arboretum off of Colorado Boulevard. Ages 5-8. $30 per quarter or $12 per session. 301 N. Baldwin Ave., Arcadia. Click on the Continuing Activities headline directly above, or here, to see more fun children's activities. 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. |
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