Wcf November Issue.indd
It's Adoption
Awareness
Month!
+ Your Holiday
Wish List awaits
Photo by Kimberly Mara -Eclipse Photography
November 2007
33
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10/28/07 12:08:26 PM
10/28/07 12:08:26 PM
News & Trends
Don’t Underestimate your Chances
A recent survey for Ovarian Cancer Canada
has revealed that 35 percent of women who
are aware of HPV (the sexually transmitted
human papilloma virus) wrongly believe that the
HPV vaccine helps prevent ovarian cancer.
The deadliest of gynecologic diseases, ovarian
cancer is estimated to kill four times the number
of women as cervical cancer. Although the HPV
vaccine is effective against 70 percent of cervical
cancers, it offers no protection for the ovaries.
In the same study, 24 percent of Canadian
women also wrongly believe that Pap tests screen
for ovarian cancer, however, the Pap detects
cervical abnormalities only.
This year alone it is estimated that 2400
The Sweet Smell of…
women will be diagnosed with ovarian
You got it—sex! Remember it? It’s tough when you’re a mom.
cancer and that 1700 will die from it.
Especially when life seems like an endless round of feeding,
Unfortunately, there is no vaccine or screening
changing, cooking, cleaning and exhaustion. This, coupled
test. Earlier this year, experts in the US issued a consensus
with any post-baby physical insecurities (which tend to last
on the symptoms common to many women. These include:
whether your baby is ten months or ten years), often means
abdominal pain, swelling of the abdomen or bloating, changes in
your libido takes a nosedive and sex feels like a
urinary frequency, weight loss or gain, and nausea.
distant memory.
Ovarian Cancer Canada recommends that women should see their
But it doesn’t have to be this way. All you gotta do is
doctors if they experience symptoms that last longer than three weeks.
breathe in through your nose…quite literally! Scentuelle, a
The risks increase among women who have a family history of ovarian,
new, safe and non-toxic product, is designed to help stimu-
breast or colon cancer.
late the libido by using our sense of smell. Just think of your
For more information, please talk to your doctor and visit
response to that fi rst cup of coffee in the morning—now,
ovariancanada.org.
imagine something a little more sexy in the bedroom!
Scentuelle consists of a blend of scent molecules that are
engineered to mimic the size, shape and electrical charge of
Looking for a little business support?
dopamine, the mood molecule, which causes the brain to
Check out enterprisingmomsnetwork.com, a network of
release the hormones that make us feel good—even aroused.
mom entrepreneurs who are dedicated to helping one
Infused in a small transparent patch that is worn on the
another succeed in business.
inside of the wrist, Scentuelle was developed with a non-
permeable adhesive barrier to ensure the formula is never
absorbed into the skin or bloodstream. The cost is $39.95
for 30 patches.
Vasectomy
Learn more and buy online at scentuelle.ca.
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No Needle
Trying to fi gure out how to do it all?
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Start by sitting back and doing very little!
Barry Rich, M.D.
Grab a latté, connect with local moms
and let MomCafé provide the rest. Rel-
evant speakers, stimulating conversation,
Dr. Barry Rich has performed over
a light breakfast, childcare…what
12,000 No-Scalpel Vasectomies
could be better than a
(NSV) in his more than 12 years of
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morning with like-minded
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moms? Next event:
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vasectomy in a single visit.
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plenty more to come).
technique.
Details online at
Vasectomies performed at both
momcafe.net.
Vancouver & Surrey clinics
www.foremed.com
604-575-0501
34
WestCoastFamilies.com
WCF November Issue.indd 34
WCF November Issue.indd 34
10/28/07 12:08:35 PM
10/28/07 12:08:35 PM
November:
It’s Adoption
Awareness
Month!
Thinking of adopting? If so, you’ve picked a good
province to begin the process. British Columbia is one
of the most progressive provinces in Canada in terms of
who can adopt a child.
Under the Adoption Act of 1996, any BC resident
over the age of 19 is eligible to apply. Meaning, you
no longer need to be a homeowner, married, childless, heterosexual,
under 40 or university educated to adopt. Although traditional
families are still the biggest adopters, many loving homes have been
created by people of all ages and walks of life.
By defi nition, adoption is a legal and social process whereby a person
becomes the parent of a child. Once you adopt, that child is the same
as any birth child in terms of the law and in terms of your responsibility.
Under BC law, whether you intend to adopt locally or internation-
ally, you must apply through BC's Ministry of Children and Family
Development, or through one of BC’s six licensed adoption agencies
(for the complete list, go bcadoption.com). Same goes in the case of
direct placement, whereby the birth mother is known to you. (The
only exception is with a relative or in the case of a step-parent adop-
tion, which can be processed locally through a lawyer.)
The government of BC has proclaimed November as Adoption
Awareness Month as a means of raising awareness about children
who are waiting for an adoptive home, and as a means of recogniz-
ing adoption as a vital way to build a family.
If you’re interested in learning more about adoption, here are a
Spectra Energy
few resources to get you started:
• Adoption Council of Canada: adoption.ca
• Adoptive Families Association of BC: bcadoption.com
• BC's Ministry of Children and Family Development: gov.bc.ca/mcf
KIDS’ KONCERTS
• Canada Adopts: canadaadopts.com
Music for the young and young at heart! The
2007/2008 Kids’ Koncerts series features fun and
• Canada’s Waiting Kids: canadaswaitingkids.ca
educational concert presentations, designed for children
from age four/five to ten/eleven. It’s a great family outing
for kids, parents, and grandparents alike!
Information provided by the Adoptive Families Association of BC.
As an added bonus, the Kid’s Koncerts series features the
VSO Instrument Fair which allows music lovers of all ages
(but especially the kids!) to touch and play real orchestra
instruments in the Orpheum lobby beginning one hour
before each concert.
All concerts Sundays at 2pm at the Orpheum Theatre.
First concert of the series is Sunday, November 4th!
To subscribe or order your FREE 2007/2008 brochure,
CALL VSO CUSTOMER SERVICE
at 604.876.3434
vancouversymphony.ca
5-Concert Series package ONLY $61 for kids, and $98 for adults!
CLASSICAL KIDS
TOLO MOLLEL
VERN GRIFFITHS
PLATYPUS THEATRE
BRAMWELL TOVEY
TCHAIKOVSKY DISCOVERS
DANDI PRODUCTIONS
WALL TO WALL
CHARLOTTE AND
INSPECTOR TOVEY
AMERICA
THE TWINS AND THE MONSTER
PERCUSSION
THE MUSIC MAKER
MAY 18, 2008
NOVEMBER 4, 2007
DECEMBER 2, 2007
FEBRUARY 24, 2008 APRIL 13, 2008
series sponsor
media partner
PREMIER EDUCATION PARTNER
November 2007
35
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10/28/07 12:08:48 PM
10/28/07 12:08:48 PM
A Moment with
our YM cover Mom,
Amanda Slydell
Mom of two, with one from Thailand
(fi ngers crossed) on the way
become a part of our lives forever. Although
On balance: Slydell still puts in one day a
our child will grow up quite Canadian, we
week at her old accounting job to bring in a
also want ‘her’ to be aware of her roots and
little extra income—and for the opportunity
honour them.”
to sneak in some extra adult conversations
into her week!
On motherhood: Slydell is a 31-year-old
On waiting: “Nothing is ever a sure bet
She also tries to fi t in a message every
mom of two boys—two-and-a-half year-old
with adoption, so we don't have our ex-
other week
Brin, and eight-month-old Ashton. “I always
pectations set on anything. We are simply
as a means
knew I wanted to be a mom, and it is the
opening up our karmic hearts and putting
of rejuvenat-
best job in the whole world,” she says.
it in the universe's hands. Ideally, we would
ing herself.
“Challenging, yet ever so rewarding—and this
like to adopt a young girl.”
“I feel that in
from a person who used to love to work and
Slydell’s advice to others considering
order to be
would juggle two or more jobs at a time!”
adopting, particularly overseas: “The adop-
an effective
tion process is not for people who like
and commit-
On adoption: Slydell and her family are
things to happen in a predictable or timely
ted mommy,
leaving for Thailand this month to live for
manner. It takes a long time before a child is
I need to take
about a year. They are hoping to bring home
proposed to you. Depending on the country,
time and care
their third child. “My husband and I have
you are looking at one to three years of
for myself. I
always said we wanted to have a child the
paperwork and waiting before you are able
want my kids
‘old-fashioned way’ and adopt the rest,” she
to bring your child into your lives.”
to grow up with
shares. “The universe had a different plan
love and respect
for us, but the birth of our second has never
On travel: As avid travellers before children
for themselves,
hindered our plan for adoption.”
(to countries including Cambodia, Ethiopia,
and hope I
She is currently studying Thai and trusts
China, Morocco, France, Japan and more),
can be a good
the year abroad will allow for serious
Slydell and her husband always planned to
example to them
practice and, perhaps, the ability to become
live abroad for one of the fi rst fi ve years of
in this.”
fl uent. In the “waiting phase” of the adop-
their kids’ lives.
tion process, she is also hoping it will result
“After much thought and consideration re-
On respect: At the end of the day, Slydell
in baby number three.
garding safety, where our family would feel
hopes her family feels plenty of love. But if
“We wanted to adopt from a country
comfortable visiting, where we would enjoy,
she could teach her kids one thing: “Re-
where we knew we would be comfort-
etc, we decided on the amazing country of
spect...for themselves, for family and others,
able embracing the culture, seeing as it will
Thailand.”
for beliefs, values, etc, and for the earth.” YM
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36
WestCoastFamilies.com
WCF November Issue.indd 36
WCF November Issue.indd 36
10/28/07 12:08:53 PM
10/28/07 12:08:53 PM
Dads
Are Parents, Too
By Leslie Clough | BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre
In my experience as a childbirth educator, I
and baby to grow naturally is one of the
get a lot of questions from expectant dads
BC Women’s Hospital & Health Centre,
most important things you can do.
on the subject of bonding with their babies.
formerly the Grace Hospital, is BC’s
If you have a tendency to micro-manage
Many of them wonder how they can forge
only facility devoted to the health of
every aspect of your baby’s care, try taking a
the strong connections that often exist be-
women, newborns and their families.
step back so dad can step up to the chal-
tween mom and baby, especially when they
Donations ensure thousands of women
lenge. Chances are, he will…if you let him!
are not feeding baby themselves.
and their babies receive the support
Accept that you each will have a different
Some also worry about how their partners
and care they need, when they need it.
way of doing things, and try to avoid inter-
will deal with new motherhood, how their
To learn more, visit bcwomens.ca.
fering with how your partner changes the
own relationship will fare and whether they
diaper or packs the diaper bag.
To make a contribution, visit
are ready (emotionally and fi nancially) to
Also, talk about which parts of your child’s
bcwomensfoundation.org.
deal with this new responsibility.
care you each want to do. Maybe dad will
These dads may be putting on a brave
be in charge of bathing baby or of taking
Consider a dads’ discussion group within the
front but, inside, they’re often anxious about
baby for a walk each evening. By experienc-
community (check with your local commu-
their new role and, perhaps, even a little jeal-
ing care from each parent, your child will
nity or recreation centre) or, if the notion of
ous they aren’t as physically tied to baby as
learn to trust both of you.
baring your soul in front a group of strang-
mom usually is at this stage. What I tell these
ers sounds too daunting, seek the advice of
worried fathers is that they can build close-
Dads: Take the initiative! Step into caring for
friends or relatives who are also fathers, and
ness with their child in many ways other
your baby without being asked. Throw a load
who are non-judgmental, trustworthy and
than feeding in baby’s early days.
of laundry in without having to be told, or just
good role models.
announce that you are taking baby for a walk.
The increasing awareness of the needs of
Your role as parents…
Open up to your partner and discuss how
new fathers has also resulted in a wealth of
Moms: As a mom, you play an important
you want to be involved. The more engaged
research and support online, through such
role in helping your partner bond with your
you are, the more you will get to know baby
forums as brandnewdad.com.
child. Allowing the connection between dad
and the more appreciative your partner
“Just about every scientifi c study done
will be. Every minute you spend with your
on attachment and bonding has focused on
child—be it changing a diaper, bathing him
mothers and their children,” writes father-
Hey, Dads…Wanting more
or rocking him to sleep—is part of forming a
hood expert Armin Brott in a recent column
information on how you can help
lifelong connection.
on brandnewdad.com. “But over the past
play an important role in caring for
At the same time, becoming a father for
ten years, or so, a few researchers have
your new baby? Look for a brochure
the fi rst time can be a scary, overwhelming
begun taking a look at father-child attach-
called My Baby’s Breastfeeding: What
experience. So, if you’re a new dad, don’t be
ment. What they're fi nding isn't really that
Can I Do?
afraid to acknowledge these feelings, talk to
much of a surprise. In fact, it's what just
Written for new fathers, this
others about them and, above all, take some
about any man you know would tell you:
brochure will soon be available
comfort in knowing that you are far from
the father-child bond is just as important as
online at bcwomens.ca. In the
alone in experiencing them.
the mother-child bond.” YM
interim, your doctor, midwife or
As new dads are more involved in rear-
community health nurse can help
ing their children than in previous genera-
Writer Leslie Clough is the manager of patient
you track down a hard copy.
tions, there is a lot more support out there.
and family education for BC Women’s Hospital.
November 2007
37
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10/28/07 12:09:01 PM
10/28/07 12:09:01 PM
Yummy Mummy
Wish List Don’t put yourself last…add these to
your shopping list this holiday.
for the sexy mom
for the working mom
for the mom who does it all
Add décor
Hold down
A healthy start
Pretty up your
the fort
For the safest in
bikini area
Hold down
pre- and post-natal
with a few sexy
important paper-
nutritional support,
symbols. Kittyng
work with the
try one of these
Hearts Bikini Art
Meadowsweet
multi-vitamin/multi-
kit is one way
solid glass paperweight. The velveteen-
mineral programs,
to spice up your
covered bottom protects furniture, and the
developed by leading nutritional experts. For a
life this Christ-
beautiful fl oral design makes it the perfect
complimentary program, go to sweetmomma.com.
mas. Buy online
offi ce accessory. Cost $16US at galison.com.
Prices range from $23.99 to $39.99Cdn.
for $18.95US at
justkittyng.com.
Pretty in pink
Spice things up
Keep your trash
Add ultra-fresh seasoning to your
looking sweet
family’s dishes with ease using
with this six-litre
these user-friendly “grinder-top”
sturdy step can
bottles. You’ll cook like a pro!
with a removable
Recipes and retailers online at
inside bucket. It’ll
thespicedepot.com. Prices vary.
look pretty beside
any desk. Buy
Keep ‘em
for $14.99US at
close
simplehuman.com.
Wear your family close to
Apple blossoms
your heart with the sweet,
Make your entire body glow with Fuji
Mouse-side notes
yet stylish Mesa Necklace.
Apple Body Scrub, a delicious, organic
Jotting down remind-
Cost $245. Other styles
body scrub that’ll leave you feeling
ers for the day or
available from $125 through bopomo.ca.
fresh and vibrant all over. 100% vegan.
week ahead is a
Cost $23.50Cdn at aupurea.com.
breeze with this co-
Worth the while
lourful planner, which After a day of hard work
conveniently doubles
at the offi ce or a day of
as a mouse-pad.
hard play at the park,
Suggested retail $8.50US at galison.com.
remember why it’s all
worth it. Ensure a per-
sonalized photo pillow of
your loved one is waiting
at home. $48.50Cdn.
Cosmetic bags, coin pouches and handbags are
also available at pinkyblue.ca. Holiday promo: buy
two, get the third free.
The morning cup of joe
Why stop for a latté when you can make it at
Got it all?
home? The Cuisinart Stainless Steel Espresso Maker
Surely, another cashmere sweater won’t
Tough as nails
is perfect for professional-
do. Try something a little lighter, like
If you pound the pavement (literally) every
grade cappuccinos and lattés.
Smart Ass thongs. With sassy monikers,
week, make sure your feet don’t pay the
Brews using ground espresso
like “high maintenance,” you know
price. Tomboy Trades Ltd Workboots are
or pods with 15 bars of
you’ll actually wear ‘em! About $22Cdn
made for rugged and dependable wear.
pressure, a 53oz removable
at smartassgals.com.
Exclusively online for $99Cdn at
reservoir and warming tray.
homedepot.ca.
Suggested retail $249.99 at
canadiantire.ca.
38
WestCoastFamilies.com
WCF November Issue.indd 38
WCF November Issue.indd 38
10/28/07 12:09:11 PM
10/28/07 12:09:11 PM
Goings On!
Hip a
Hip and Happ
nd Hap ening
penings in y
in your town
our town
After Work Mix-and-Mingle
Daniel Packard Live Group Sex Therapy
Wishes & Wants Fair
Campoverde, Vancouver
Surrey Arts Centre
Sunnyside Hall, Surrey
Every Friday in November, 7:00pm
November 9, 8pm
(1845 154th Street)
The Friday ‘After Work’ is brought to you by
This show is more about sex politics than
November 16, 7-10pm
the Rendezvous Club at Campoverde where
sex; it pries open the truths and scary secrets
Come and shop with over 25 unique vendors
there’s no dating and no pressure. Stop in for
that men and women don't tell each other.
and home-based businesses all in one stop.
a drink, or stay for the night.
Come and play (or just watch) this hilarious
Lots of door prizes. Free admission. Non-per-
604.729.5990 | rclub.ca
and enlightening comedy experience. Tickets
ishable donations to the local food bank are
campoverde.ca
$26/person.
encouraged.
604.501.5566 | danielpackard.com
604.762.2704
Lunch by the Fireside
Sasamat Outdoor Centre, Port Moody
Holiday Shopper's Trade Show
Singles Intro to Kickboxing
November 7, 11am-2pm
Shannon Hall, Cloverdale Fairgrounds
Precision Athletics, BC Place
A warm retreat on a fall day—enjoy a three-
November 10, 10am-3pm
November 24, 10am-1pm
course meal followed by musical entertain-
From innovative gifts, clothing and toys, to
Join other singles as you punch, kick and
ment at this adult-only event.
spices, cookware and home spa products,
block your way to a stronger, leaner body.
$12.50 per person.
there is something for everyone. Free admis-
This non-contact cardio class uses focus pads
604.939.2268 | sasamat.org
sion and parking.
and kick shields to develop hand-eye coordi-
surreytradeshow.googlepages.com/home
nation, balance, speed and core strength.
Illuminations Fundraising Luncheon
604.317.3055 | precisionathletics.ca
Park Ballroom, Four Seasons Hotel
Canadian Liver Foundation Annual
November 8, 11:30am
Tribute Dinner
BC Women's Hospital & Health Centre Foun-
Plaza 500 Hotel & Conference Centre,
dation invites you to this fundraising event
Vancouver
by HSBC Bank Canada. Join CTVs Pamela
November 15, 6:30pm
Martin and keynote speaker Gloria Steinem.
A celebration in honour of a team of special-
For tickets info, please check online.
ists who work to enhance and save the lives
604.639.0439 | bcwomensfoundation.org
of British Columbians with end-stage liver
disease. Tickets starting at $150.
Spoken Word Open House & Bake Sale
604.707.6430
Royal Oak Community Church, Burnaby
November 8, 7pm
Shop for the holidays! Presented by Toast-
masters, a non-profi t organization dedicated
to helping people improve communication
Marketplace
and leadership skills.
604.521.7240 | thelonepostman@yahoo.ca
Cornucopia Food and Wine Celebration
4010 Whistler Way, Whistler
bi
b rt
r h
t d
h a
d y
a p
y a
p
p r
a t
r ites
e ,s t
o
t
t d
o d
d l
der p
er
e l
p
r pay
a a
y r
a
a e
r a
e ,
a
November 8-12, 10am-3pm
ju
j n
u g
n l
g e g
e
e y
g
g m, r
ym
y , e
r
m, r s
e t
s a
t u
a r
u a
r n
a t
n a
t n
a
a d m
nd
n o
m
d m r
o e
r !
e
Celebrate gourmet food and wine
in one of the most beautiful places
on earth. Take in seminars with
wineries, critics and wine profes-
sionals, or attend
winemaker dinners
All Wrapped Up Party Supplies
where multi-course
10% Off
meals are paired
Birthday Party Supplies & Favours
Drop-in Play
with a variety of
Everything you need to create a memorable
Parent supervised playground for children 1-6 yrs.
wines. Packages
Large selection of Thomas, Dora and Bob toys.
birthday party for your child, conveniently
All inclusive birthday party packages starting at $99.99.
from $189.
delivered right to your door.
whistlercornucopia.com
Near Lougheed Hwy
Over 40 popular licensed themes including: Spiderman,
Tel: 604-468-7529
& Shaughnessy St.
www.playparadise.ca
Strawberry Shortcake, Dora the Explorer and many more.
Port Coquitlam
(604)574-6127 www.allwrappedup.ca
Please present this ad to receive your discount.
November 2007
39
WCF November Issue.indd 39
WCF November Issue.indd 39
10/28/07 12:09:33 PM
10/28/07 12:09:33 PM
Marketplace
A magical comedic fun-filled show, with one of 30 costumed characters.
Performing: Singing, Dancing, Magic, Animaloons, Joking Puppets & Face
Painting. For: Parties, Holiday Celebrations & Promotional Events.
736★0876 / 729★4987
www.castletopcharacters.com
Music Together
Phoenix Song
Classes for infants to kindergarteners...
and the grown-ups who love them
bond with your child • develop musical skills & have fun!
Keyboarding! Rhythm! Singing! Composing! Theory!
locations in UBC and Richmond
Ages 2 & Up! Parents Participate! Small Groups! Fun!
1-800-828-4334 www.myc.com
604-327-5165 | www.mtphoenixsong.com
As Seen On Oprah
Own your own gift basket dealership
• Brand new in Canada
• Make over $30,000 per year
• Member of the BBB in the USA
Call for free DVD 503-730-7802
Fun Magic
Gift Baskets.indd 1
10/4/07 6:31:57 AM
Shows
Children love Peter Rooke’s fun-filled
magic shows! To help make your party
extra special, call Peter at
604-984-6822
Almost As Good As Mum
Nanny Agency Ltd.
Nanny Services: Personal service in finding full/part-time, daily/live-in,
temps and babysitters • Personally interviewed and police background
checked • Payroll Service.
Sleep and Routine Solutions: Advice and help in routines for your child
and family • Practical and helpful solutions and advice • Private home
consultations • Individual routine advice given for every family • Ongoing
support • Wonderful success rate.
I am a small agency run by an ex UK nanny with over 16 yrs experience.
Telephone 604-542-0548 ~ Fax 604-542-0547
www.almostasgoodasmum.com
40 WestCoastFamilies.com
WCF November Issue.indd 40
WCF November Issue.indd 40
10/28/07 12:09:40 PM
10/28/07 12:09:40 PM
