Following Atticus — Forty-Eight High Peaks, One Little Dog and an Extraordinary Friendship — By: Tom Ryan

As Reviewed by: Macy Walsh

I can’t say I’m a big fan of dog memoirs.  You know, those cloying Marley and Me’s in which the author thinks his or her dog is the most important in the world; where the quirky canine teaches life lessons even though you know it really just wants some kibble, a stick and a tummy rub.   That being said, when I came across Following Atticus by Tom Ryan the cover made me look twice: a miniature schnauzer standing in the snow with what looks like socks and crampons on its paws.  As I would discover later, these doggie winter booties are called muttlucks.

The subtitle promised “forty-eight high peaks, one little dog and an extraordinary friendship.  The “friendship” part guaranteed some stale bromides but the “high peaks” with this wee pooch made me crack it open.  And right inside the cover is a hand-drawn map of New Hampshire’s White Mountains, highlighting its 4,000 foot crags. I went to college in that beautiful area (Hanover, New Hampshire) so I was immediately hooked.  Turns out that the author, founder and former editor of the Newburyport alternative paper The Undertoad, set out with this tiny dog to climb up and down all 48 of these mountains, twice, in 90 days of winter.  They did so to raise money for the Jimmy Fund after a friend died of cancer, and thus, a grand quest was born complete with challenges, love of nature and scattered tears along the way.

Sounds painfully treacly, yes?  Suprisingly it’s not, and that’s largely thanks to Ryan himself.  If Atticus seems an unlikely mountaineer, so does Ryan as a self-described “middle-aged, overweight newspaper editor” who likes poking the powers-that-be in his North Shore town.  In fact, the first 50 pages or so are a great portrait of Newburyport, what it’s like to know everyone and to often be the one who publishes the things people don’t want to talk about.  And when he writes about hiking these mountains, he does so with a sense of discovery any armchair reader will appreciate – you don’t have to be an Outside subscriber or John Krakauer fan to get this book.

Then there’s the way he writes about Atticus: This schnauzer sounds and looks very cute, and Ryan obviously becomes a sudden softie when he first gets this five-pound puppy, but he never tries to make Atticus more than just a dog – a very good, adventurous dog to be sure.  But though he’s that proverbial best friend, his behavior is not over-analyzed.  This tempered sentimentality is crucial when Atticus starts to go blind but is insistent on hiking the mountains anyway.  Ryan writes plainly about it, not overstating what is clearly an emotional time for him, and the effect is more powerful for such restraint.  When they finally reach the final peak of Mt. Washington, it’s truly a quiet triumph.

At the heart of this remarkable journey is an extraordinary relationship that blurs the line between man and dog, an indelible bond that began when Tom, following the advice of Atticus’s breeder, carried the pup wherever he went for the first month of their life together.  Following Atticus is ultimately a story of transformation: how a five-pound puppy pierced the heart of a tough-as-nails newspaperman, opening his eyes to the world’s beauty and its possibilities.  It was a change that led to a new life among the mountains; an unforgettable saga of adventure, friendship and the unlikeliest of family; and an inspiring tale of finding love and discovering your true self.  A great read for the whole family!

Halloween Trends: Five Easy Steps for Skeletons Scary and Sweet

The skeleton is a very popular Halloween costume, especially the trendy and colorful dead skull candy look. 9037 Salon wants to share with you some easy Halloween make-up tricks that will have you looking scary or sweet in a flash. A few supplies are a must. You’ll need white and black cream base foundation, available at your local Halloween store, a black and gray pencil liner, black and grey eye shadow, cosmetic sponges and makeup brushes.  For a more colorful design, replace the black foundation and liner with the color of your choice.  Add extra features to make your look a little more unique, or if you’re going for the skull candy vibe, draw on flowers and funky designs that are sure to turn heads at any Halloween gathering.

• Step One: Apply the white foundation with a cosmetic sponge and cover your face, lips, and neck until you have an even amount of coverage.
• Step Two: Using a concealer brush, apply black (or color you chose) to your eyes making a circle from under your lid to right below the eyebrow. Fill in completely using your sponge if necessary.
• Step Three: Apply black (or color you chose) to your nose. Use the black liner to draw on a skeletal nose, and fill in with the black makeup using the concealer brush.
• Step Four: Apply black (or color you chose) to your cheeks.  Suck in your cheeks to accentuate your cheek bones, and follow under your cheek bone with the sponge to give cheeks a sunken in affect.
• Step Five: Create lips using the black liner to line the place where your lips separate, extend the line to where the black cheeks begin on each side. Make little vertical lines about a half an inch apart across the lip line you just created.
• Step Six: Keep it basic or customize with colorful face paint, glitter or glue on rhinestones. The possibilities are endless!

9037 Salon is located at 9037 W Sahara Ave, Las Vegas, NV. 89117.  For information on makeup design help, call them at 570-7108.

Sneezes, Wheezes and Watery Eyes: Pets and Allergies

By: Hana Haatainen Caye

“Please!” they beg, day after day. “Please can we get a pet?” What’s a parent to do?

If you are reluctant to get a pet because of the possibility of allergies, you might have good reason. According to the American College of Allergies, Asthma and Immunology, approximately 10% of the country’s population is allergic to animals (or 25% for asthmatics). Every year, millions of pets are left in shelters and euthanized. Allergies are the number one reason provided for their surrender. To avoid this heartbreak and unfortunate circumstance, potential allergies are something to seriously think about when considering the commitment of owning a family pet.

Allergy Illusions

“Just get a hypoallergenic dog or cat,” a well-meaning friend suggests. The problem is, “hypo” simply means “less than,” not “non” as people tend to think. While there are those less likely to trigger an allergic reaction, the truth is all pets can cause problems for someone with allergies to animals. And, contrary to popular belief, it’s not hair that causes the allergic reaction!

Cats have sebaceous glands, such as the glycoprotein Fel d 1 (Felis domesticus), where allergens reside. These glands secrete the allergens through the skin and via the saliva. Whenever a cat bathes itself with its tongue, it spreads this protein, triggering all sorts of allergic symptoms in nearby sufferers. Dog allergens, on the other hand, stem from their dander (dead skin cells), saliva, and urine. In addition, pollen, dust and other allergens picked up by roaming pets is cause for concern.

Birds and smaller cage dwelling animals can cause problems as well. Reactions to feathers and droppings are somewhat common. Research shows that a continuous exposure to birds and their droppings can sometimes cause chronic, slowly progressive symptoms including a shortness of breath, loss of energy, and feeling of fatigue. Some birds, like cockatoos and African grays tend to produce the most dander. Guinea pigs, rabbits, and other rodents can also produce allergic symptoms, with Guinea pigs and rabbits being particularly problematic.

Testing…Testing

Now you know why, but how can you best determine if your household can tolerate the much desired addition of a new pet? One of the best ways to determine if someone in your family is allergic to a particular type of pet is to borrow one or offer to pet sit for a few days. Check with your friends, family members or co-workers and see if anyone would be willing to lend you their pet. If that isn’t possible, at least take the time to make multiple visits to animal shelters and pet stores, spending as much time as you can around the type of pet you are interested in. If you or your child has even the slightest allergic reaction, heed the warning and move on to a different option.

Safest Bets

The search for a pet to satisfy a sniffly family is far from hopeless. Some breeds and species are more agreeable to allergy sufferers than others.

Puppy Power

Due to pesky pollen, non-shedding dogs tend to be good choices when trying to reduce the possibility of allergies. The American Labradoodle or Bichon Frise are both great choices for hypoallergenic family dogs. Enthusiastic and playful, the American Labradoodle needs room to romp, so it is not an ideal apartment dweller. In contrast, Bichon Frise are good dogs for families in apartments or homes with small yards. Both breeds require frequent grooming, however, so keep the cost of monthly visits to the groomer in mind.

If your family includes young children, a Portuguese Water Dog may be the perfect pup. Known to be loyal, affectionate, pleasant-tempered and fun, even the First Family chose this animated breed for the White House due to Malia Obama’s allergies to dogs.

Other popular hypoallergenic dogs include:

• Poodle
• Kerry Blue Terrier
• Schnauzer
• Italian Greyhound
• Bedlington Terrier
• Yorkshire Terrier
• Havanese
• Maltese
• Basenji

Check online for rescue sites and/or register your breed of choice at local shelters to avoid puppy mills.

The Cat’s Meow

The Devon Rex and the moderately longhaired Siberian head up the list for least-allergenic felines, which also include the Cornish Rex, Balinese, and Oriental Shorthair. Despite being super-fluffy, up to 75% of people with cat allergies don’t show allergic reactions to Siberians. These affectionate, dog-like kitties shed less than most cats, have less dander, and have a lower amount of Fel d 1 in their saliva. P.S. Lessen your risk further by adopting a male, light-colored kitty as some research concludes dark-furred cats are four times worse than lighter-furred when it comes to allergens. Female cats may also produce more Fel d 1.

Birds and Other Critters

Parakeets and cockatiels produce much less dander, making them a better choice for allergy sufferers. Rats are a surprising yet especially good choice due to their short fur and affectionate nature. According to author Marty Becker, DVM, “Rats are a good choice if you want hands-on interaction. They have less hair than other rodents and love being handled.” Don’t discount reptiles including snakes, frogs and lizards, as well as fish either. Although they may not be as interactive as a dog or cat, with proper care and maintenance they can make great pets for those allergic to more traditional pets.

Preventative Measures

In order to reduce the chances of allergic reactions to whichever pet you choose, there are a few tips you should note:

• Location- Pets should not share bedrooms with people with allergies. Period. Keep the dog or cat off the beds and the cages/tanks out of the kids’ rooms.

• Cleanliness – Neglecting cleaning up after a pet can cause all sorts of health risks, including asthma attacks and itchy eyes. Droppings in rodent cages should be cleaned daily with a thorough cleaning of the enclosure weekly to cut down on allergens. Vacuuming, dusting and mopping should be performed frequently.

• Bathing – Cats and dogs need weekly baths using special shampoo to remove dander and excess hair. Apple cider vinegar rinses not only soften fur, but will repel fleas as well.

• HEPA air cleaners – Installation of air cleaners can dramatically reduce allergen risks.

• Expose children to pets during their first year of life. Studies have shown this might halt the development of animal allergies altogether.

Unfortunately, no matter how careful you are when choosing a pet, allergies can still crop up down the road. Before adding a pet to your family, have a contingent plan. Check with friends to see if they would be willing to adopt your pet if the time came that you simply had to give him up because of an allergy situation or emergency, or ask the shelter, store or breeder if they take back pets under those conditions. Be sure to obtain a written copy of their policies.

Choosing the right pet and following allergy prevention guidelines can lead to a fulfilling and fun relationship with your furry, or not-so-furry, family addition.

Join the Design Revolution! Creating Custom Fabric, Wall Paper, Decals and Gift Wrap

By: DeeDee Birdsall

Did you catch the Project Runway episode where contestants were given the challenge to design and create their own fabric in less than an hour? “I’d love to create my own fabric,” you might have thought. “But wait — I’m not a designer!” Maybe you’ve been looking for that perfect wallpaper or gift wrap for a special room or occasion and just can’t find the ideal pattern to complete your vision. Well, fret no more.  Whether you’re a fashionista, a seamstress in search of the perfect fabric or an occasional crafter with a hankering to create something truly unique, all you need is a little creativity and the help of technology to create personalized materials with professional results.

The Power of Spoonflower

In the old days we crafters could print our own designs onto fabrics, calendar pages, clear decals, etc. using ink jet printers with specialized sheets of materials. The size constraints were obvious, as was the substandard quality in color and saturation if you had more than one sheet to print. With the power of the Internet, creating your own designer items has become dramatically revolutionized. There are several websites that help you design your own projects, and although they have similar design concepts, services and pricing, Spoonflower.com stands above the rest in terms of ingenuity.   Spoonflower includes a community connection to other designers (currently over one million users), and encourages creativity by hosting giveaways, contests such as “Design of the Week,” a BlogSpot, virtual studio and storefronts, plus ways to earn royalties if you choose to sell your designs. It is the largest network of independent fabric and wall  covering designers in the world and the great thing about those designers is that many of them are just like you and me! Best of all, they offer an array of projects to brighten up your home and gift giving options while letting your inner designer show through.

One-of-a-Kind Textiles

Whether making pillows, curtains, quilts, or other home decorating or wearable items, the fabric sets the tone for the finished project.  With Spoonflower you can design your own unique pattern then print swatches, fat quarters, or entire yards of fabric. The site provides several design layout options, step-by-step instructions and examples, plus it hosts an online gallery of thousands of fabrics for purchase.  Pricing ranges from $17.50 a yard for basic combed cotton to $38.00 for silk crepe de chine.  They also offer a 20% discount on purchases of 20 yards or more.

Wallcoverings and Decals

How many times have you had a vision of the perfect wallpaper and not been able to find it?  What about the labor-intensive removal process once that oh-so -1980’s pattern has lost its luster?  Today’s wallpaper is a different story and Spoonflower’s print-on-demand totally removable wallpaper is an excellent choice.  Perfect for temporary homes that need a facelift (i.e. college dorms, apartments, etc.), each roll comes in the standard 24ft x 12ft size at a cost of $60.00 each.  Considering that awesome design from Anthropologie at a cost of $168.00 per roll? Now you can create your own similar look for a lot less cash!

Looking to snazzy up your room but don’t want to cover an entire wall?  Spoonflower also offers custom-designed peel and stick wall decals or murals. Offered in three different sizes, they can add a whimsical feel to a child’s bedroom or playroom, or create a sophisticated scene that adds drama to the more formal spaces in your home. Pricing ranges from $5.00 to $30.00 each.

Gift Wrapping Options

Want your gift to stand out from the crowd at your next wedding, baby shower or birthday party?  Spoonflower provides a custom gift-wrap option that takes your design and transforms it into a work of art.   It’s a fun way to create something truly unique that you can personalize – no gift tag required!  Gift-wrap rolls cover approximately four average sized gifts for a cost of $15.00 per roll.

From Digital Photos to a Designer Masterpiece  

Getting started on Spoonflower may take a bit of practice and knowledge of sending digital files, but it’s a simple, six step process once you get going. Before getting into full board design mode, it’s recommended that you order a color map, color guide, and a swatch booklet off the site. This is an inexpensive way to verify you’ve chosen the right colors and fabric for your project the first time around!

1. Upload your image.  Any photo or design image you have saved in a standard file format such as a JPG, PNG or GIF can be uploaded to Spoonflower.  Don’t have an image?  Hundreds of images are free, or for sale on sites such as www.Shutterstock.com. Make sure to read the fine print, as many images are not for resale. If selling your finished design is your goal, heed the warnings and don’t violate copyright laws.
2. Edit your design. Using Picmonkey.com, a free online editor linked to Spoonflower, you can edit your image to include color changes, size, special effects, frames, and more. For high-tech editing use Photoshop outside  of Spoonflower and upload your finished design.  Keep in mind, color is your responsibility. Be sure to order swatches prior to full yardage production as to not be disappointed in your finished product.
3. Create a design repeat.  Spoonflower prompts you to determine your design placement.  A basic repeat creates tiles of your design horizontally and vertically, while other options include half-drop or half-brick staggers.
4. Proof your design. Once you’ve ordered your design there’s no turning back!  Take extra time to verify the design is as you intended prior to production or offering it for sale in the virtual shop! Use your resources to assure the color is as you envisioned.  All sites assume once you have placed an order, the product is finalized.
5. Print your design.  Using the step-by-step instructions, order the type of fabric and number of yards.  If you’re unsure of fabric types, make a quick trip to your local fabric store and ask for a quick lesson in fabric types and weights, then match what’s available on Spoonflower, choosing what’s conducive to your project.
6. Sell your designs (optional). With a click of your mouse, you can make your designs available for sale in Spoonflower’s virtual shop.  As the designer, you retain the rights to the design and earn 10% of the sales.  Earnings are paid in the form of “Spoondollars” which can be used to purchase other items from the site, or can be paid to your PayPal account monthly.

Design Project Ideas

You’re limited only by the imagination as to what can be designed on the Spoonflower site.  Consider these ideas to get the creative juices flowing!

• One-of-a-kind lining for totes and purses
• Designer gift-wrap with children’s names, business names, photos, etc.
• Personalized growth charts or cartoon frescos from decals and murals.
• Customized tablecloths and napkins for weddings, family gatherings, gifts.
• Print family recipes to make tea towels or aprons.
• Upload children’s artwork to make teacher and grandparents’ gifts.
• Create matching fabric and contrasting wallpaper for any room in the house.
• Upload company logos to upholster office chairs or use for wallpaper and decals.
• Cover a lampshade; make pillows and other home décor items. 

As Robert Frost once said, “The artist in me cries out for design.” Explore your inner artist and create fabric, home decorating and gift-wrapping options that are uniquely you!

Crowdsourcing Self-Control: Success Through Accountability

By: Michelle Vessel

Anyone who has ever sworn off a bad habit at the stroke of midnight on New Year’s Eve or filled out an annual self-evaluation form at work is probably already familiar with the concept of SMART goals. For decades, the conventional wisdom has held that in order to have the best shot at success, goals should be Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Relevant and Time-bound. Though there are reams of scientific research and word-of-mouth anecdotes to back up this concept, several recent studies have caused a stir by suggesting that there may be one key ingredient missing from the SMART goal recipe: accountability.

What Is Accountability?

Due to its association with the political sphere, the term “accountability” has picked up something of a negative connotation over the years. When a lawmaker or official is believed to have overstepped the bounds of his or her office, disgruntled constituents and teeth-gnashing editorial writers often call for greater accountability, almost as a form of punishment. But in its most basic sense, “accountability” just means being called on to account for one’s actions, usually in a public setting.

When it comes to goal-setting, accountability means sharing your stated intentions with someone else, be it your significant other or your 300 Twitter followers, and checking in with that audience on a regular basis to update your progress and hash out your successes and shortcomings.

Why is accountability important?  Well, people who build an element of accountability into their self-improvement efforts often radically improve their chances of long-term success. In one study conducted by researchers at Dominican University in California, study participants who had an accountability network were 33% more likely to lose weight than were those who kept their goals to themselves. In a similar study carried out at the University of South Carolina’s Arnold School of Public Health, dieters who documented their eating habits on social media platforms were more successful in their efforts than those who were instructed to go it alone.

Devise an Accountability Plan That Works for You

Why do so many well-intentioned people skip accountability when it comes to setting goals? Mainly, making a public proclamation that you need to make a change – whether that means losing weight, improving your on-the-job performance, spending more one-on-one time with the kids, or whatever variable it is that needs tweaking in your life – can be kind of embarrassing.  According to Dr. Tricia Leahy, a researcher with the Miriam Hospital Weight Control and Diabetes Research Center in Rhode Island, the challenge is finding the right amount of accountability for you. The “sweet spot” is an arrangement that takes you slightly out of your comfort zone, but not so much so that you dread checking in with progress reports. Ideally, you should feel challenged in a positive way, but not paralyzed by the fear of humiliation.

Luckily for today’s goal-setters and go-getters, we’re living in a golden age of opportunities and options. Whether you prefer cutting-edge apps or a more personal, human-centered approach, it’s a snap to set up an accountability system that works for you.

High-Tech Accountability Tools

From complex online programs that appeal to spreadsheet fans and data nerds to simple apps that conveniently keep your change efforts on track via your smartphone, the last few years have seen a tidal wave of new technology-enabled methods of gauging and reporting your progress toward goals.

On the Web

There are a wide range of popular websites, many of which cost nothing to join, that can help you stay accountable by sharing your results either with a select group of friends or the public at large. Popular choices include 43Things.com, HabitForge.com, and JoesGoals.com. The website DietBetter.com turns weight loss into a social challenge, while Stickk.com ups the ante by allowing users to bet on their success. If you succeed at your stated goal, you get the money back. If you fall short, your money gets donated to the charity of your choice (or to an “anti-charity” whose cause you disagree with). Many of these sites also have mobile apps for on-the-go accountability updates.

Socially Speaking

Some of the simplest and most popular tech tools for accountability updates are social media platforms like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. Many recent studies have focused specifically on the use of goal-related tweets, status updates, check-ins at the gym and meal photos as accountability tools, and those who consistently report their progress using these methods tend to be more successful in achieving their goals than average people.

In the Palm of Your Hand

For those who find the prospect of manual social media posts too tedious, there are also a slew of platforms and apps (mostly diet- and fitness-related) that can help you stay accountable by posting your progress to social media sites automatically. Platforms, apps and sites like Nike+, MyFitnessPal, iFit, DailyMile and RunKeeper make it a cinch to post your workout stats without you having to lift a finger.

A Little Privacy… Please  

If you like the idea of an online accountability system, but would rather keep your goals away from the prying eyes of the fellow churchgoers and business associates that follow your social media accounts, there are other options available. Many accountability sites allow you to choose an anonymous username rather than using your full name. Similarly, you could register for and start spending time on bulletin boards related to your goal, whether that’s running your first marathon or improving your parenting skills. If you opt for an anonymous form of online accountability, however, experts say it’s important to make sure you’re engaged and emotionally invested enough to care about the approval of the community of users – otherwise, it won’t matter to you if you have to tell them you’ve fallen off track.

High-Touch Accountability Tools

If all this talk of tweets and status updates leaves you cold (or bewildered), you may be a prime candidate for a more personal take on accountability. Though groups like Weight Watchers and 12-Step organizations have been around for decades, a growing number of people are hooking up with partners or a crew of like-minded folks to check in on goals, give progress reports – and even offer up a little tough love when necessary.

Accountability partners or group members don’t have to be focused on the same goal. In fact, it may be more beneficial if you’re tackling different types of targets so that meetings don’t devolve into nitpicking or one-upmanship. Experts suggest scheduling get-togethers or progress reports on a regular basis. These can range from text message or email exchanges to tête-à-têtes over coffee or cocktails, or anything else that works for the group – as long as each member or partner is offering up a report on a regular basis.

For the ultimate in one-on-one accountability, you may want to consider working with a coach. Skilled professionals are available to help clients work toward many types of achievements, ranging from making it as an entrepreneur to competing in a triathlon. Technology has enabled a wide range of options and pricing levels for coaching services. You can select less expensive email coaching or pricier face-to-face sessions, depending on your budget and the extent of  support you’re looking for. Though it’s not for everybody, many of those who have made the investment in coaching describe it as an enormously helpful form of accountability.

No matter which approach you opt for, adding an element of accountability to your next attempt at self-improvement is a smart way to drastically increase your chances of success. If a willpower deficit has caused you to fall short in the past, try relying on the support (and scrutiny) of others as motivation to stick to your plan this time around. And who knows? By bravely proclaiming your goals to the world, you just might inspire others to take on tough challenges, as well.

The New Kind of Comfort Food: Classics That Won’t Tip the Scales

Food Stylist: Aly Wagonseller
Art Director: Kristi Stephenson
Photographer: Dave Smith

Most everyone craves good old-fashioned comfort food from time to time. Especially once the outdoor temperatures start to dip, creamy dishes that are hearty, simple and full of flavor have you wanting more …yet bring your fork to a screeching halt when you consider the exorbitant calorie and fat counts in every tiny bite.  Wouldn’t it be nice to be able to indulge in the flavors of classic comfort food without all the guilt?  Surprisingly, it can be done (and without compromising flavor and satisfaction).

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The key to making a successful change in the dietary value of luscious dishes like chicken fried steak and gravy or mac-n-cheese is to avoid going overboard and trying to cut too many calories and fat grams all at once.  Flavor is derived from fat. If you leave every drop of it out, you may just wind up with a lackluster creation that’s a major disappointment to the taste buds.  Think about balancing ingredients with the goal of obtaining optimal health and cutting back, not total elimination. If you’re using full fat cheese in your macaroni recipe, nix the cream and choose skim or 2% milk instead. Forego the chintzy spritz of cooking spray and instead swirl a dose of canola or olive oil into your pan for sautéing.  These are healthy fats and are necessary to achieve the crispy crust and depth of flavor in most gravies and sauces.  Choose ingredients that don’t deviate much in flavor and texture from their gut busting counterparts.  Low and no fat sour creams and cream cheese taste virtually identical to the original, with nearly identical consistency, an important consideration for a velvety outcome.  Remember – comfort food isn’t something most of us eat at every meal, so making a 450-500 calorie version of a dish that normally weighs in at 1200 calories or more, still does your waistline a huge favor while satisfying your craving for a delicious dish.

We’ve got skinnier versions of the most popular comfort foods on the dinner table.  They’re all surprisingly delish, yet lower in calories and fat – allowing you to eat to your stomach’s content…without tipping the scales. 

Print and Save the Recipes Below!

Skinny Chicken-Fried Steak

Turkey Shepherd’s Pie

Tuna Noodle Casserole 

Peanut Butter Banana Pudding

Adventure Like a Cowboy…Rockin ‘R Ranch

By: Anne Helmstadter

The dark skies rumbled low overhead as Sadie, my sturdy Quarter Horse mount, paused at the crest of a steep incline. Bolts of lightning lit up the mountains all around and cool rain pattered on my cowboy hat. I felt my nerves tingling as I looked down the rugged drop off.  Ahead our cowgirl trail guide, Nikita, turned around and balanced on her saddle as her mare descended into the gully.

“Imagine the cowboys who worked this land 100 years ago,” she shouted back. “Riding out, pushing cows in a storm. Don’t you feel just like them?”

For a few days at the Rockin’ R Ranch in Antimony (pronounced AN-tuh-moh-nee), Utah, I did feel just like them. Unplugged, with no phone or television, horses carried my family back to a simpler time where we adventured like authentic cowboys.

Taming The Wild West

The Rockin’ R Ranch, a scenic four-and-a-half hour drive from Las Vegas, sits on the edge of The Dixie National Forest, in the heart of The Grand Circle, with easy access to five national parks: Bryce Canyon, Zion, Capitol Reef, Arches, and Canyonlands. The Black family tamed this 1500-acre ranch when they started running cattle and planting crops more than 130 years ago.  Burns and Mona Black launched the dude ranch operation in the 1970s, offering a variety of supervised activities, horse and non-horse, designed to give guests a true cowboy experience. Today, Brandon Hanks and his wife, Brandi, manage the ranch. The couple takes great pride in the ranch’s ability to entertain all ages – toddlers to teenagers and middle-aged couples to grandparents – keeping them all busy, cowboy-style.

Mountain lions, coyotes and foxes roam the juniper and pinyon pine-dotted mountains surrounding the ranch, while jackrabbits, chipmunks and squirrels make their home in the sagebrush meadows and hayfields of the valley. Here, in this small ranching community, with the sounds of cows lowing and horses stamping, city slickers from across the globe can wrangle their inner cowboy in a perfectly western weekend getaway.

Cowboys and Horses

When my husband, two girls and I arrived at the ranch a tall young man in the requisite cowboy attire, Colt, greeted us. He showed us the large whiteboard in the main lobby listing our activity schedule based on my family’s interests and previous horse experience.  Every guest’s activity schedule is tailor-made, and all activities are optional.

Our first scheduled adventure, was a trail ride through irrigation ditches and flood channels with water so deep my nine-year-old had to hold her feet up to avoid filling her boots.  A late afternoon arena ride had us racing around barrels and pole bending.  Even my husband, not an equestrian, embraced the cowboy moment and trotted his horse through the poles.  Before dinner my girls launched themselves into the swimming hole with the rope swing and, after a few leaps into the cool water, they convinced me to climb into a canoe with them to paddle around the water under the shade of old cottonwoods.  From our canoe we watched as members of a family reunion tried to ride a bucking calf. After several of them, including a grandfather, were pitched to the arena floor we decided we didn’t need to master a bucking calf on this trip.

On our second day, Cowboy Mike (sporting a handlebar mustache) brought four Black Angus cows into the arena for team penning. He gave us a few directions on how to “center the cows” and we were off, steering our horses around the bucking cattle, and pushing rebellious strays back into place with cowboy-esque whoops and hollers. After numerous attempts (and some assistance from Cowboy Mike) we centered our cows and raised our hands in victory with a newfound respect for the cowboys who accomplish in mere seconds what took us twenty minutes.

More than Horses

Eighty percent of the guests who visit Rockin’ R are not horseback riders and many have never even sat on a horse. While horses and cows are everywhere you turn at the Rockin’ R, the ranch provides plenty of other activities to occupy those who would rather keep their rumps out of the saddle. Kid crafts, ATVing on the Paiute trail, skeet shooting, archery, hiking, swimming, canoeing, fishing, hay wagon rides, rock climbing, and river tubing are just a few options.

Our second night, one of the worst storms of the summer slammed the ranch. This didn’t stop Cody, our cowboy-tube-guide, from leading us down to the river the next afternoon for our scheduled tube run.  I knew I was in for more than I had planned when Cody’s eyes widened at the sight of the rushing river. “Wow, that storm really raised the water level.”

My first attempt to sit in the tube flipped me head over heels into the river and sent my tube shooting downstream, but after several curves, the initial white water calmed into a gentler river. Enjoying the ride, I imagined what the cowboys of yesteryear would say about this modern activity. I like to think they’d admire its adventurous spirit.

Hiking is also a popular activity. Ranch guides will gladly regale guests with stories about Butch Cassidy who, myth has it, used to hole up in a 150-year old ranch cabin that still exists on the Rockin’ R property. Stories say he even hid a stash of gold in a rocky hideaway in the foothills that a local rancher discovered some years ago. Today, guests can walk in Cassidy’s footsteps on The Butch Cassidy Hideout Hike, enjoying spring-green colors, beautiful geological formations, and clean air.

Cowboy themed evening activities complete the ranch experience: campfires and smores, cowboy songs, line dance lessons and Saturday band nights.

Cowboy Beds and Eats

The Rockin’ R is ranch living, not a spa resort.  They offer 41 TV-free rooms in a rustic lodge all outfitted with comfortable beds and clean, private bathrooms with hot water. There is no cell service at the ranch but an old-fashioned landline phone is available for guests. The ranch recently added WiFi, allowing guests to feel unplugged without completely disconnecting from the 21^st century. A buck head above a large fireplace in the lodge’s main public room oversees log tables and sink-into sofas. A game room, dining room, gift shop and lobby ensure the lodge is ready for its guests.

Ranch cookin’ serves up hearty cowboy fare at each meal: pancakes, waffles, eggs, and bacon for breakfast; sandwich fixings and fruit for lunch; steak, chicken, salmon, scalloped potatoes, cooked vegetables, and freshly baked cakes for dinner.  The ranch will accommodate special diets, whipping up something for my husband, a vegetarian, whenever needed. A fresh salad bar at lunch and dinner also offers an alternative to the meat and potatoes. Saturday night the cook serves a classic Dutch oven dinner: ribs, corn bread, mashed potatoes, and cherry cobbler. Not sophisticated eats, but filling and satisfying after a day spent outside.

The Cowboy Code

While your weekend of cowboy adventuring at the Rockin’ R may not transform you into a rodeo-riding cowboy, sitting astride a horse (or an ATV) under the big western sky will leave a yearning for the simpler life where the Cowboy Code of courage, loyalty, honesty and optimism ruled the West.

As we left on our last morning, we stopped for a few minutes to gaze at the horses and cattle grazing on the open range. Our weekend of cowboy adventuring behind left our legs sore, but our souls restored.

If you go: The Rockin’ R Ranch is open year round, but some activities are seasonal. The reasonable rates ($135/night per person for quad occupancy) are offered as full amenity packages: room, three meals, and most activities included. For reservations contact: (801) 733-9538 or visit www.RockinRRanch.com.

Dream, Create, Inspire, Learn – The Children’s Discovery Museum

By Meghan Pescio

As a Las Vegas native, some of my clearest and fondest memories of my childhood are of annual field trips to the Lied Discovery Children’s Museum. The bus would stop, my classmates and I would pour out and get completely lost in a whimsical world of dress up, curiosity and make believe. Entering the new DISCOVERY Children’s Museum located in Symphony Park alongside The Smith Center, that feeling of wonderment and fascination returned. I was welcomingly swept right back into my childhood as I wandered from exhibit to exhibit. The new location harkens back to the good ol’ days of Lied, and so much more.

From the River to “The Summit”

The mission of the museum to create a hands-on and engaging experience for children is immediately evident as you enter and are greeted by a giant apparatus that literally lifts a car, permitting the little lifter to dictate how much pressure he or she will need to do so. Every inch of the three-story, 58,000 square foot building allows for active and practical learning encounters. Exhibits such as “Water World” on the first floor create a different experience for each age – splashing around for the little ones and a deeper understanding of water’s movement and power for school aged kids. Even the adults will learn a thing or two.

A new addition to the museum is known as “The Summit” and it is as powerful as it sounds. Scaling the full three stories of the building, this 70 foot tower of entrancing educational adventures could keep you occupied for hours on its own. From giant ears to a spacecraft and an incredible view upon reaching the top,  “The Summit” is a refreshing challenge of both body and mind.

Other exhibits new to those of us with Lied nostalgia, work not only to create fun environments for children to learn, but also give them practical knowledge for choices they will have when (or if) they decide to “grow up.” The “It’s Your Choice” exhibit is dedicated to health and wellness, and with live classes (taught by employees daily around the museum) about skincare in the sun and interactive games about food choice and exercise, I felt like I should be taking notes.  “Eco City” mixes some old with the new as you will recognize children shopping in a Smith’s grocery store and pondering fiscal responsibility in the nearby Wells Fargo, but be pleasantly surprised by a new focus on environmental sustainability and community. The “Solve It!” exhibit puts a premium on analytical thinking as it leads you through a mystery and asks you to collect evidence, scrutinize it and crack the case.

Creative Flare

While pragmatic decision-making is important for the real world, the museum isn’t only for our left-brained offspring. Exhibits that celebrate imagination and creativity light up each floor – you can almost hear the little minds buzzing! “Fantasy Festival” on the first floor is a dreamlike hodgepodge of ships, castles and, of course, the giant stage that graced the former museum floor, complete with purple curtains and a box of costumes. “Young at Art” is reminiscent of a young Salvador Dali meets Dr. Seuss as colors melt off the walls around pink zebras and other human-like animals. My personal favorite, “Patents Pending,” is a brilliant tribute to the tinkerers, inventors and creators among us. Encouraging our future generation to “Dream,” “Design” and “Invent,” the exhibit offers future engineers the equivalent of a canvas to an artist.

As I followed the trail of tears from children prematurely pried from their fun, having been asked to leave this fantasy land by the parents or teachers who also secretly wanted to stay, I noticed a tribute to facility donator Donald W. Reynolds Foundation.  The last line states the mission of the foundation to support organizations that “demonstrate a sustainable program, entrepreneurial spirit, and assist those served to be healthy, self-sufficient and productive members of their community.” The DISCOVERY Children’s Museum, at whatever location in the big neighborhood we call home, does just that and is a landmark to be proud of and patronize- at any age.

For more information on visiting, becoming a member or participating in programs of the DISCOVERY Children’s Museum visit www.DiscoveryKidsLV.com

A Step Above – Jordan Serrano

Liberty High School
Class of 2014

For all the pressure put on looking towards the future, there is something very special and unique about those who are able to live in the moment. Jordan Serrano, Liberty High School’s current Student Body President, is a special young man with an uncanny ability to do both. From disciplined martial artist to a social and philanthropic leader among his peers, Jordan keeps his eye firmly on the prize while still allowing for changes in direction. Most importantly, Jordan’s ability to sincerely appreciate the people and resources around him puts him in line with all the greats, and makes him – A Step Above.

G.P.A. 4.633

Sports/Scholarships/Awards

• JV Wrestling Co-Captain, 2012
• JV Volleyball, 2012
• Filipino Martial Arts, 2001-2010; Assistant instructor, 2008-2010
• First Place Point Sparring, USA World Championship, 2010
• First Place Continuous Sparring and Weapons Form, Fall National Championship, 2010
• First Place Point Sparring, Disney Martial Arts Festival, 2007-2010

Clubs/Community Service

• Liberty High School Student Council, 2010-2014; Secretary, 2010-2011; Vice President, 2011-2012, Treasurer, 2012-2013; Student Body President, 2013-2014
• Key Club, 2011 & 2013
• Nevada Boys’ State Delegate, 2013
• Southern Nevada Zone, 2013
• Nevada State Conference for Student Council, 2011-2013
• Relay for Life Participant, 2010-2013
• Beatty Elementary School Carnival Volunteer, 2011-2012
• Student Advisory Committee, 2012
   

Jordan’s Proudest Accomplishment: “Becoming Student Body President is my most proud accomplishment. Coming into student council my freshmen year, I didn’t expect to achieve this goal. It was only until my sophomore year that I knew I wanted to make a difference and become the Student Body President. I continued to put in hard work within my council and school and eventually, it all paid off.”

Contributions to Jordan’s Success: “My drive and desire are what make me so successful. When I want something, I will achieve it no matter how much I have to go through.”

Jordan’s Inspiration: “One person I really look up to is my sister, Jasmine Serrano. She is the reason why I joined student council. I even followed in her footsteps and became the student body president just like her! She constantly motivates and helps me become the best person I can be. I wouldn’t be the person I am today without her.”

Words Jordan Lives By: “Do not dwell in the past, do not dream of the future, concentrate the mind on the present moment.” –Buddha

A Step Above – Brooke Garlick

Coronado High School
Class of 2014

It’s not always easy keeping a smile when life gets tough, but for Brooke Garlick of Coronado High School that’s the only way to be. That, and so focused on making dreams come true that you don’t have time to get down in the dumps! A stellar athlete, involved student and natural leader, Brooke truly personifies the results of good, old-fashioned hard work mixed with just the right dash of flexibility for life’s guaranteed twists and turns. Add that to the premium she puts on being a good teammate on and off the court, and it’s a recipe that places her – A Step Above.

G.P.A. 3.69

Sports/Awards

• Varsity Volleyball, 2011-Present; Team Captain, 2013-2014
• CSA Volleyball Club, 2013-2014
• Three-time AAU Junior Olympics Bid, 2013
• 702 Beach Volleyball Team, 2013
• Vegas Encore Volleyball Club, 2011-2013
• Net Believers Volleyball Club, 2009-2011
• First Place 18U LV Beach Bash, 2013
• Selected for Congressional Youth Leadership Council (CYLC), 2013
• USA Volleyball A3 Youth Camp in Las Vegas, 2012-2013
• Most Spirited (Varsity Volleyball), 2012-2013
• Best Offensive Player (Varsity Volleyball), 2011-2012

Activities/Clubs/Community Service

• Coronado Student Council Class President: Freshman, 2010-2011; Sophomore, 2011-2012; Junior, 2012-2013; Senior, 2013-2014
• National Honors Society, 2012-2014
• Best Buddies Member, 2012-2014
• Graduation Ambassador for HERFF Jones, 2013-2014
• Three Square Food Bank, 2012-Present
• Cougars Care, 2010-Present
• Santa Run, 2007-Present

Where can you find Brooke in ten years: “In ten years I see myself either working for ESPN as a sideline sportscaster or helping young athletes in sports medicine.  I also see myself giving back to my community.”

Brooke’s keys to success: “I believe that your success is based off of the ability to take a bad situation and make it better.  As John Wooden once said, ‘Things turn out best for the people who make the best of the way things turn out.’  No matter what I go through, I try to make the best out of it because life is too short to be dwelling on the negative.”

On overcoming adversity: “I was invited to a USA Volleyball camp my sophomore year and on the first day, during the last drill, I stepped on another player’s foot and severely sprained my ankle.  The type of sprain took a long time to heal and it was a very frustrating recovery.  I missed nearly all of my junior season and quickly learned that it takes both patience and hard work to rehab and return from an injury.  I learned through adversity that it is important to stay positive and always keep your head up.”