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A resource for families in Santa Cruz County | |
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Looking for the some snow action
in northern California?
Look here!
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I was thinking of my parents and my childhood perspective on their lives. At first in my memories I saw my mother doing endless housework, shooing us out to play, and my father going to work. But what did they do for relaxation, for themselves? Then I remembered more details. My mother loved baseball. On summer afternoons she would lie down to rest and listen to a game on the radio. On winter afternoons, she took time out and sat in her chair with a book in her hands. Weekends my father would enlist us to help him with wood working projects or take us canoeing or fishing or ice skating.
Moms, Dads, Grandparents, You can do it; you can parent beautifully with love, a plan, help when you need it and being kind to yourself. Choose one "small" act, something you love doing. Do it for enjoyment, to balance stress, to nourish your soul. You're mentoring for your children. Let them see you taking care of yourself.
What do you do for yourself? Parmalee
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Are you a mushroom newbie or an experienced fan?
If you've been no more adventurous than enjoying brown creminis in a sauce over tender pork and rice, you should bone up on mushroom benefits and go to the Santa Cruz Mushroom Fair to learn more. If you're a pro, go for the enjoyment and lnteraction with fellow mycophiles (fascinated by mushrooms) and mycologists (studies mushrooms).
I've read that mushrooms:
- "are low in calories but packed with nutrients such as B vitamins (riboflavin, niacin, pantothenic acid), vitamin D (when exposed to sunlight or UV-treated), and minerals like selenium, copper, and potassium;
- they have antioxidant properties including polyphenols and ergothioneine which help protect the body's cells from damage caused by free radicals, which can contribute to chronic diseases;
- that certain mushroom varieties, including shiitake, reishi, and maitake, have been studied for their potential anti-cancer properties, as they contain compounds that may help inhibit tumor growth, stimulate the immune system, and possess anti-inflammatory effect;
- and that mushrooms are a good source of dietary fiber, which promotes healthy digestion.
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Additionally, certain types of mushrooms contain prebiotics, which nourish beneficial gut bacteria and support a healthy gut microbiome." Quora
Whether you are new or experienced with the world of mushrooms, if the above benefits intrigue you, get your timed entry tickets for the Mushroom Fair. Timed entry tickets are new. Learn why here.
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Is Walking Your Treat to Yourself?
"Above all, do not lose your desire to walk. Everyday, I walk myself into a state of well-being and walk away from every illness.
I have walked myself into my best thoughts, and I know of no thought so burdensome that one cannot walk away from it.
But by sitting still, and the more one sits still, the closer one comes to feeling ill. Thus if one just keeps on walking, everything will be all right."
-Author Søren Kierkegaard ~ Art by Brooklyn Swenson
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January is Positive Parenting Awareness Month!
Start the New Year with 31 Days of Positive Parenting. Each day we’ll be sharing practical and easy tips for parents and caregivers, along with ideas for enjoying quality family time.
January 1: Today's advice: Pause and Reflect
The pace of life can be overwhelming, and sometimes we forget to stop to think about how we feel. Take a moment today to reflect:
How am I, physically, emotionally and mentally?
What do I need to recharge energies and restore balance?
Self-care doesn't have to be complicated. It can be as simple as getting out for a breath of fresh air, dedicating some time to an activity you enjoy, or seeking support from someone close to you.
Small changes can make a big difference.
Find all 31 ideas of parenting tips that you can incorporate into your daily life as a parent or caregiver here .
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Painting Clouds with Toaa Dallo, Sunday, January 5, 2 – 6pm,
Clouds are a timeless source of fascination, with a spectacular variety of shapes and colors, and artists love to explore them. This fun one-day cloud painting session with Toaa Dallo is a deep dive into this popular and rewarding subject for art. This class is for everyone — from beginners who want help getting started to experienced artists looking to refine their skills. Details
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Quilting with Friends, 1st & 3rd Mondays 11am-3pm, through May 5, 2025, Join us at the Boulder Creek Library for Quilting with Friends every 1st and 3rd Monday of the month (subject to holiday closures). All levels of quilting expertise are welcome, from accomplished quilters to those new to the craft. Details
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Arboretum Free Day, First Tuesdays, The first Tuesday of the month is free to non-members.The UC Santa Cruz Arboretum is a conservation garden of rare, endangered and extraordinary plants from around the world. We are open daily, 9am to 5pm. Details
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Tai Chi in the Library, Thursdays, 10-11am, January 2 – April 17,
Are you ready to experience the ancient art of Tai Chi amidst the serene ambiance of your local library? Tai Chi is a gentle, flowing martial art that originated in ancient China. It’s known for its graceful movements, deep breathing techniques, and meditative benefits. Whether you’re a complete beginner or have some experience, this class is perfect for everyone! Expect a warm and welcoming environment filled with laughter and camaraderie. Routines suitable for all fitness levels. Don’t worry; no prior experience is required – just bring an open mind and a smile! Details
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Free Dance Lessons with Santa Cruz Senderos, beginning January 6, For all ages beginning age 5. Call or email: 831-854-7740, info@scsenderos.org | |
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100 Photos of
Fantastic, Beautiful, Nature in the Raw, Laugh-Out-Loud Birds Audubons's 2024 Bird Photography Winners
Too Amazing to Even Choose One Image
Details
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Home Depot Kids Workshops, January 4, 9am – 12pm, Join us the first Saturday of each month between 9 am – 12 pm for free in-person Kids Workshops. Inspiration for young builders! Register to secure space.
2600 41st Avenue, Soquel
and
355 S Green Valley Rd, Watsonville Details
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Mystery Box Monday at MOD, Mondays, 3pm, Calling all curious minds! Get ready for Mystery Box Monday, the fun-filled, brain-bending program that unleashes your child’s inner inventor, artist, and problem-solver! Details
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Crafty Teens, 2nd Wednesdays 4:30-6pm, through July 9, We are crafty at Capitola! Teens are invited to craft, relax, and socialize. Details
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Chanukah Train, January 2, We’ll share in Chanukah traditions and ride the train through the streets of Santa Cruz listening to Chanukah music and enjoying warm latkas and hot apple cider provided by Chabad by the Sea. Play festive games and win prizes! Lighting of the Menorah (15 mins before departure), Chanukah Games, Kosher Refreshments, Dreidel Mascot. Security will be present. Details
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Volunteer with the Fungus Fair Details
Explore the Fascinating World of Fungi, January 10, 11, 12: Friday, 2-5pm; Saturday, 9-6pm; Sunday, 9-6pm, Come to Santa Cruz and explore the fascinating world of Fungi. Learn interesting and fun facts about the hundreds of beautiful and fascinating species of mushrooms found in the Santa Cruz and Monterey Bay Area. Fungi will be beautifully displayed in a re-created woodland habitat. This unique Santa Cruz tradition features three days of fantastic fun, informative speakers, fantastic food, vendors, and demonstrations, with fungal activities for the whole family. Details
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Ice Skate in Union Square! Daily, through January 25, 10am-11pm, Details | |
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Parenting Workshops, These parent workshops offer outstanding skills, tips and support in our parenting path. We are fortunate to have these resources. Even if everything is going well, it's good to know what's available! January
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