Spring 2026

I N T O SPRING Skincare & W E

Dr. Hodari and Rejuvené invite you to our annual Spring Soiree! Join us outside for a night of food, fun, and education. Raffle prizes and event pricing! 4 P M - 6 P M M a r c h 2 6 , 2 0 2 6 t h

W H A T T O E X P E C T

H a l o ™ L a s e r , B B L ™ P h o t o f a c i a l , a n d C l e a r V

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S k i n T i g h t e n i n g

Learn more about our skin tightening treatments; including SkinTyte by Sciton, and Potenza RF Microneedling

H y d r a F a c i a l

Learn about the HydraFacial process and how this treatment works to cleanse, extract, and hydrate

80 Declaration Drive, Chico, CA 95973 (530) 342-8295

S k i n c a r e P r o d u c t s

Expand your knowledge on all things skincare with experts from ZO Skin Health, Rejuvené, SkinMedica and more

I n j e c t a b l e s

Learn more about Botox® Cosmetic and Dermal Fillers

C o o l S c u l p t i n g ®

Expand your knowledge on CoolSculpting, the non-invasive procedure to selectively and reliably reduce fat in problem areas

Our contributors Welcome

Advertising Deadline:

To advertise in our summer issue, please contact us by April 15th. Our summer issue will be on stands June, July, and August.

Contact Jason Corona for advertising information or to submit a calendar event at: (530) 591-2634 or jason@growingupchico.com

Growing Up Chico Magazine is published quarterly and available, free, at over 200 family-friendly locations throughout Butte County. We are also available online at www.growingupchico.com

For Editorial Inquiries

Contact Michaela Gulbransen

Content Coordinator/Writer michaela@upgradedliving.com

For Advertising Information, Contact Jason Corona Sales Director (530) 591-2634 jason@growingupchico.com

Aveed Khaki Publisher/Owner aveed@growingupchico.com

Copyright © 2026 by Growing Up Chico Magazine. All rights reserved. Reproductions without permission are prohibited. Articles and advertisements found in Growing Up Chico Magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the management or ownership. We reserve the right to edit. Every effort is made to avoid errors, misspellings, and omissions. If an error is found, please accept our sincere apologies and notify us of the mistake.

Shelly Brandon

Shelly is Mom to two daughters, one in college and the other in high school. She is an avid traveler, and a lover of animals and the outdoors. She has been a high school biology teacher, a zookeeper, and lately, a freelance writer.

Jillian Laird

Jillian Laird is a wife and mom of three who homeschools in Paradise. She embraces every season of motherhood—the good, the hard, and the chaotic—finding calm in challenging moments. She believes in choosing joy, embracing the journey, and doing everything with grace.

Carly Boettcher and Ashley Skillin

These two moms are Chico natives who share a passion for building community and exploring with their kids. They're on a mission to help moms feel connected, supported, and inspired to adventure confidently with their families. You can find them on Instagram, sharing local events @momwhatsnextchico.

Delphine Jesperson

Delphine is a Chico business owner and mother who loves her community. She works alongside her husband on business strategy, creates content for clients, and develops social media plans. Delphine and David are excited to welcome their second daughter in March!

Kimberley Humble

Mom to three adult "kiddos", she has learned that momming never ends. As a self-professed birth nerd, doula, and three-time surrogate, she thrives on supporting families professionally. In her personal life, she is rediscovering her love of concerts and enjoys frequent adventures to places near and far.

Tyler Diamond

Proud husband to Kiara and father to Ace, Remi, and Sadie, Tyler was born and raised in Oroville and now calls Paradise home. He owns and operates Diamond Construction and Diamond Landscaping and serves as head coach and mentor for the Paradise Youth Wrestling team.

Rick and Janie Hagin

Rick and Janie Hagin are proud parents of four daughters and 15 grandchildren. Having moved to Chico from Southern California 10 years ago after retiring, they love traveling both abroad and across the U.S., though spending time with family remains their favorite pastime.

Women in Business: This issue is full of industrious and resilient women building businesses throughout Butte County. Discover their stories!

Better Babies Program: Northern Valley Indian Health aims to increase education for mothers in the North State.

Sweet Ninjas: Butte County's newest youth training program takes center stage, teaching kids how to be happier, healthier, and more confident versions of themselves. Explore all it has to offer!

Cool Kid: Meet 11-year-old Macey Layne Nunes, a shining example of work and play. This straight-A academic will jazz dance her way into your heart.

Teacher Feature: Danielle Astengo inspires students through literacy, adventure, and hands-on learning.

Surrogacy Explained: Learn about the emotional journey, challenges, and connections between surrogates and intended parents building families.

Fatherhood: Tyler Diamond reflects on parenting lessons, love, growth, and family priorities.

Delphine Jesperson's fertility journey reveals resilience, loss, healing, and hope for herself and other moms-to-be.

Motherhood Mess Jillian Laird offers moms encouragement in overcoming expectations, selfdoubt, and issues in trusting their instincts.

Pop Culture: Michaela Gulbransen recommends books, podcasts, and more to enjoy this spring.

Grandparenting: Rick and Janie Hagin continue to stay young and young-at-heart through their grandkids.

Mom What's Next: Discover this spring's must-visit events in Butte County!

Spring Calendar: Our spring calendar is full of activities to keep you excited through March, April, and May!

SurrogacY: it's a journey!

What is surrogacy? The basic definition of surrogacy is that it is a process where a woman carries and delivers a child for another individual or couple, referred to as intended parents. There are two types of surrogacy: traditional surrogacy, where the surrogate's egg is used, so there is a genetic relation, and gestational surrogacy, where there is no genetic link. The vast majority of surrogacy journeys these days are gestational, as scientific advances have made this safer, easier, and more straightforward over the years.

Surrogacy is a profound and life-changing experience! For surrogates and intended parents alike, the journey involves a mix of hope. joy, and intense emotions, which sometimes present challenges. Both parties must navigate physical, mental, and emotional hurdles as they work together toward the shared goal of bringing a child into the world.

For intended parents, the road to surrogacy often begins with the painful reality of infertility. Whether due to medical conditions, age, or other factors, many intended parents face years of heartache before they explore surrogacy as an option. The choice to pursue surrogacy is deeply personal, and often comes with a sense of both fear and relief. Intended parents have to trust the surrogate, most often someone they

did not know previously, with their most precious desire—to become parents. The journey can be filled with anxiety, as the intended parents are eager to have a child in their arms, but there is so much uncertainty and no guarantee of the desired outcome. There is also a constant vulnerability in surrendering control of the pregnancy to another person.

Surrogates, on the other hand, step into a role that demands immense strength and compassion. Surrogacy is not simply a physical process; it is also deeply emotional. Surrogates are motivated by a desire to help others above all else, to give the opportunity of parenthood to those who cannot conceive on their own. The physical aspect of surrogacy— undergoing hormone treatments, attending appointments, carrying a pregnancy, and going through labor, all while keeping the intended parents in mind—can be difficult and exhausting. It requires physical endurance, tremendous commitment, and self-care. The emotional side of the journey is equally complex as the surrogate is likely to experience a wide range of emotions, from pride and joy in helping a family to a feeling of loss and sadness when the journey ends.

Oftentimes, surrogates and intended parents end up forming a deep bond. At its best, surrogacy can create a sense

of connection and camaraderie, as both sides come together with the shared goal of creating a family. The intended parents often feel deep gratitude and admiration for the surrogate, recognizing the sacrifices and emotional (and physical!) labor she undertakes. This relationship can lead to lifelong friendships, as both parties celebrate the child's birth together. At other times, one or both parties might feel more private and prefer a more transactional approach. There is no right or wrong here, but being on the same page is important for everyone so they can have a fulfilling and peaceful journey.

When everyone experiences highs and lows together, but not always in the same ways or for the same reasons, the relationship can also face moments of strain and stress, which can lead to conflict and the need to navigate strong feelings about sensitive topics. This is one of the reasons that many surrogates and intended parents choose to work with an agency to help them navigate any touchy situations that may arise. Intended parents may experience frustration or disappointment, especially if the process does not go smoothly. Failed transfer attempts, complications, unexpected events, or delays can derail intended parents' dreams of becoming parents and a surrogate's dream of helping a family. Surrogates share in the joy and anticipation of the pregnancy and upcoming birth, while also maintaining a clear understanding that the baby is going back to its parents after birth. Everyone has to work to establish emotional boundaries that respect each other's feelings and keep themselves comfortable and fulfilled.

At its core, surrogacy showcases the extraordinary strength and vulnerability of all involved. Surrogates offer their bodies and hearts to help others in the most personal way possible, while intended parents open themselves up to the hope and fear of the unknown. Both sides demonstrate incredible resilience in the face of challenges and uncertainties. The journey may be filled with obstacles, but the outcome—a child born into a loving family—makes the emotional and physical struggles worthwhile, highlighting the immense capacity for love, connection, and sacrifice in the human experience.

What's next: Butte County!

Happy spring from MomWhatsNextChico! We are excited to bring you our lineup of can’t-miss events. Can you guess which one is a 100+ year tradition?! We hope this list encourages you to pack some snacks, load up the kids, and go explore our beautiful county.

Spring 2026 Events in Butte County:

May Day Parade (Durham): If you love a truly small town event full of patriotism and family-friendly fun, we highly recommend attending the May Day Parade in Durham! There is so much to see: tractors, horses, big trucks, dancers, and so much more. Plus, the kids go crazy trying to gather all the candy that is thrown! This year, this amazing parade is taking place on Saturday, May 9th at 10:00 am. Get there early to claim a good spot to sit and catch the action! There is also a picnic at Durham Community Park immediately after the parade, featuring familyfriendly activities!

Paradise Gem & Mineral Show: This event, put on by the Paradise Gem & Mineral Club, is a unique family outing you should definitely add to your calendar! Last year, my kids loved the scavenger hunt that took them throughout the show, giving us a chance to look at the many amazing stones and gems on display. They played spin-a-geode and came home with their little pockets full of fun treasures! This year, there will be over eight different games & activities for kids, plus vendors and educational activities for the entire family. Held at the Mechoopda Event Center in Butte Valley (149 Openshaw Rd), the show will take place April 24-26. Fri. & Sat. 9 am-5 pm, and Sun. 9 am-4 pm. Parking is free, and there is a $5 entry fee.

Maker’s Muse Festival: Chico’s love for community, art, and culture is celebrated at this delightful festival. Orange Street, between 6th & 7th Streets, will be filled with live music, art, vendors, Kids Zone, and more that you won’t want to miss. The Kids Zone will include a bounce house, cotton candy, crafts, face painting, and more! We enjoyed the crafts, food, and art gallery last year, and we look forward to attending again this year. You can peek inside Chico Fab Lab, learn about Chico Creative Reuse, appreciate the live music, and enjoy a spring weekend with the family! The festival takes place Friday, March 20th, 5-10 pm, and Saturday, March 21st, 12-10 pm.

Kite Day (Chico): Surprisingly, last year was my family’s first time attending this CARD event, and we were blown away by how magical and fun it was! There is just something about the most perfect sunny spring day and seeing hundreds of different kites flying through the air. CARD supplies kites (while supplies last), but we brought our own just in case they ran out. Come prepared for a full parking lot; this event is very popular. Kite Day will be held at Community Park (1900 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Parkway) on April 12th from 12 pm - 3 pm. This event is FREE.

We hope these spring events sound like so much fun for you and your family, and we can’t wait to see you out there!

Christina Burton Positive-I

Positive-I, founded by Christina Burton, has been a cornerstone of Paradise's culture for 15 years. Built on positivity, movement, and heart-centered connection, Positive-I has grown into a hub for community, healing, and self-expression.

Now part of Paradise Glow Collective, co-created by Christina and Melissa Goble, founder of Soul Sculpt, the vision has expanded. Together, they’ve brought strength, recovery, and connection under one roof alongside Paradise Fitness. Located inside the gym owned by Christina’s longtime friend and business partner, Taline Dockendorf, this collaboration represents an exciting new era of wellness in Paradise. In March, they will continue to expand into Christina’s long-awaited dream building, a space inspired by her vision of empowerment, community, and glow-from-within energy.

Positive-I offers massage therapy, aerial yoga, hip hop dance, and barre classes for both kids and adults, along with summer camps, birthday parties, special events, retail offerings, and transformative wellness experiences. Christina is both a dedicated student and an inspiring leader of destination retreats each year; immersive experiences widely regarded as must-attend opportunities for growth, self-discovery, and rejuvenation. A devoted mom, wife to her favorite DJ, festival lover, traveler, and self-love advocate, Christina creates spaces where people feel empowered to heal, move, connect, and fully shine. She combines expert touch, energy work, breathwork, curated playlists, weekly themes, and intentionality to guide each person to their highest frequency, helping reduce stress, inflammation, and self-doubt while amplifying positivity and confidence.

Renowned artist Morea Martin launched Morea Tea Company, featuring 14 curated organic loose-leaf blends crafted to nourish, soothe, and delight. A Chico State art graduate, former art teacher, and current herbalist student, she creates all original packaging artwork and blends teas with medicinal botanicals in eco-friendly compostable packaging. A Chico Women’s Club board member, Chico Art Center member, and exhibiting artist at Chico Paper Co., Morea also offers matching candles and tumblers. Find her locally at festivals, pop-ups, and the Chico Farmers Market.

New Additions

Each quarter, new parents throughout Butte County have been kind enough to share countless adorable photos of their babies with us. Beside the cuteness overload, we haven't had a chance to do anything with these photos other than "ooh" and "aww" over them. We decided to change that by introducing this section to welcome these tiny new additions to Butte County. We hope their photos bring the same smile to your face and joy to your heart that they bring to ours. Welcome to the world, little ones!

A community for expectant moms

Northern Valley Indian Health is a private, nonprofit Tribal health organization with a network of clinics serving all members of our community. Their Women’s Health Clinic offers prenatal, gynecological, lactation, and family planning services with OB-GYNs and certified nurse midwives. In addition to these programs, NVIH is proud to host the Better Babies Program for new and expectant mothers on Medi-Cal.

Keri Dowell, RN, IBCLC, is the Better Babies coordinator and NVIH’s lead lactation consultant. She explains, “We’re kind of like your big sister or a friend that can help give you all the information that maybe you don’t have time to ask during your OB appointments.”

A typical OB appointment lasts 15 to 30 minutes and focuses primarily on the physical aspects of pregnancy. Better Babies, however, focuses on nutrition, education, and psychosocial support for new and expectant mothers. Keri notes that they prefer to meet with patients four times during pregnancy, once early on and once in each trimester.

Visiting mothers-to-be will have an appointment with a registered dietitian

who will assess their nutritional status and make recommendations for healthy food choices. Their perinatal staff will then ask questions to best meet mothers where they are in their knowledge of pregnancy and lactation. Keri says, “We find that a lot of people don’t live in community anymore, so they just don’t have that network of support.”

Better Babies aims to help fill that gap by connecting and sharing its knowledge. They offer free childbirth classes, as well as prenatal breastfeeding and breastpumping workshops, to all of their moms. The psychosocial aspect of the program involves understanding each mom's needs and working together to connect them with the appropriate services. Whether it’s support in getting them signed up for WIC, helping them complete housing applications, assisting with job applications, or even working with them to navigate issues related to domestic violence, the staff at Better Babies is the community for moms who need it.

This support doesn’t disappear after the baby is born; it continues well into the following year. The Better Babies Program takes advantage of NVIH’s two on-staff certified lactation consultants. Moms are

welcome to meet with them for up to a year after birth to address any issues or concerns with nursing or pumping. During these visits, they also offer postpartum depression screenings and have a therapist on staff who specializes in pregnancy and postpartum anxiety and depression.

In an effort to ensure expectant mothers can access an OB-GYN as early as possible in their pregnancy, Better Babies provides presumptive eligibility, which provides emergency Medi-Cal coverage for pregnancy. This enables them to enroll in and begin prenatal care while they apply for full coverage. Keri says, “We’re that community support that can walk them through pregnancy and postpartum and connect them with the resources they need to reach their goals.”

If you’d like to schedule an appointment at NVIH for Women’s Health, Better Babies, or a lactation consultant, call (530) 433-2500. If you’d like to learn more, visit their website at www.nvih.org or follow them on social media @northernvalleyindianhealth. NVIH is available to all community members, and accepts Medi-Cal, private insurance, and cash pay.

BALANCING PARENTHOOD

Late evenings are one of the only times I get to sit and think about the days ahead, what needs to be done, and how I can make sure my family is taken care of while figuring out how to be a better husband and father. That’s when I reflect on the ride I’m on with fatherhood, and what a ride it’s been.

It’s hard to find the right adjectives to describe it: life-altering, profound, rewarding, and overwhelming. It still feels crazy to think back to late 2020, when my wife and I had our first child during the chaos of COVID. You go to the hospital with a pregnant wife and leave with a baby and a nurse telling you, “Good luck.”

Not long ago, it was just us. Now we have three kids, ages five, three, and six months. Nothing makes time feel faster than raising children. Watching them grow is pure joy, but also quietly heartbreaking, knowing their words, habits, and little tendencies won’t last forever.

When I do get quiet evenings to myself, I reflect on what fatherhood has taught me.

1. You think you have time, but you don’t. I’m a workaholic, and in some ways, I have to be if I want my wife to stay home with our kids. Truthfully, I enjoy working, but I’ve learned the importance of working to live, not living to work. My kids are growing up too fast to miss the moments that matter most.

2. Patience is a virtue.

Another word for parenting? Hard. There are times when you’re tested to your breaking point. It’s wild that a tiny human you created can control your emotions. I’m not perfect, but they’re little miracles still learning how to feel and communicate. The patience parenting has taught me has paid dividends, and for that, I’m grateful.

3. Gentle parenting or tough love?

Parenting isn’t black and white. There are times when toughness is needed, and times when your child simply needs you. Finding that balance matters. I’m overboard with the “I love yous,” the hugs, the cuddles, and the kisses. I don’t care. I’ll do it forever, and my kids will have to deal with their “crazy ol’ dad”.

On the other hand, I’m the one who disciplines or plays the “bad guy” sometimes. I love my kids enough to teach them values and to discipline them (age appropriately) when needed. I want them to be better than me and set up for success, even if that means tough moments.

Those adjectives I mentioned earlier? I’ll add one more: transformative. Having kids changes you in the best way possible. My hope is that it also changes the world for the better. I want my children to carry their last name with honor and be forces for good, and I’m doing everything that I can to give them the tools to do just that!

Tammera Shinar has intentionally woven college into her children’s lives from an early age. Her 14-year-old son, James, is enrolled in college courses through Butte’s dual enrollment program—a step she sees as key to a smoother college transition.

As a first-generation college graduate, Tammera brings a unique perspective to both parenting and education. She sat down with us to share why college matters to her, what she's learned through her dual role as a mom and administrator, and how Butte College helps families plan ahead and plan with purpose.

Q:

A:Why do you believe so strongly in getting a college education?

Oh, it's life changing. I'm a first generation college graduate. Beyond that, I grew up very low, low income. My dad didn't know about financial aid. I thought you always had to pay for school. I wasn't going to put my dad in that situation. So I had a job when I was 16, and when I graduated high school, I continued working.

I didn't start school until I was 27. I was a parent. I was working in the grocery store, barely making it, and thought, if I wanted to have a better life, I had to do something different. I started going to college, got a degree; then went and got my Master's degree, then started my doctorate degree. It's been life changing and it just sets you up for such mobility in your career and financial stability. The possibilities are endless with education.

Q: What is the benefit to starting at a two-year college before going straight to a university?

A:

When my daughter graduated high school, we were in New Mexico. She got into the University of New Mexico and it was overwhelming for her.

Tammera shinar Dean of Student Enrollment

She had a sociology class that was in an auditorium of 500 students, and she broke down. She went from having maybe 25 kids in a class with a teacher, to not even talking to your teacher. So she asked me if she could go to the community college.

She transferred to community college, got her associate's degree, graduated with a 4.0, transferred back to UNM when she was done, finished out with her bachelor's degree with a 3.87 and now is finishing her Master's. If she hadn’t made the shift to attend a community college, she might not have finished college at all.

Q:

A:

What can parents do to help prepare their kids for college now?

Talk to them about college. I think as long as we keep talking about college, and we keep talking about opportunities and how it helps develop you as a person, as a productive member of society, they won’t be afraid of it. Take them to a college, walk them around, go to a game, come to events— normalize it. Get them involved.

Q: What are other things you think parents should know about bringing their kids to Butte College?

A:

Parents should know that Butte College offers high quality programs and services, and with the Butte College Promise Scholarship, students can attend for free

As an institution, we’ve worked hard to create an environment that supports student success; academically, personally, and financially. The cost of college should never be a barrier that prevents a student from reaching their education and career goals, and at Butte College, it doesn’t have to be.

Your kids can attend college for FREE. Learn about the Butte Promise Scholarship by going to www.butte.edu/promise, or scan the QR code.

searching for a miracle

As a 26-year-old woman, I yearned for a greater sense of purpose. In July of 2019, my husband, David, and I decided we were ready to take on the responsibility of becoming parents, and in April of 2020, our first miracle arrived.

Fast-forward to July 2023, the summer I turned 30. After a few tries, we succeeded in becoming a family of four—until we weren’t. I will never forget the moment I knew I was losing my pregnancy. I felt like I had the flu, and that my body was completely rejecting the baby that didn’t have a chance to grow. As my numbers started to decrease, I realized that I was going to be passing this miscarriage naturally.

As we hopped onto a plane to my cousin’s wedding in Florida, diapers and all, I felt a sense of relief that my body was doing what it needed to protect me. Miscarriages happen, right? The

entire wedding weekend (yes, I was a bridesmaid) was spent miscarrying this pregnancy, but celebrating someone I loved felt so right during such a hard time.

Three months went by, and I told David I was ready to try again because… miscarriages happen, and it couldn’t happen twice—or could it?

On Christmas Day, I told everyone in the family that I was pregnant. On January 12th, 2024, I called everyone to tell them I was losing the baby again. But this time, my body didn’t want to let go. With HCG rising and pregnancy symptoms intensifying, we had to induce the miscarriage. This was one of the slowest times of my life, and I won’t get into details, but it hurt—mentally and physically. My soul felt crushed, and so did my body.

If you know me, you know I'm a go-getter.

When I healed, I started eating an antiinflammatory diet, practicing yoga, and focusing on balancing my hormones. But I couldn’t stand to go through the hurt and the pain of losing something we wanted so badly if we could avoid it.

March 2024 was the month and the moment our secondary infertility made sense. After getting tests done at the fertility clinic, we found out I have a balanced translocation, which is when two chromosomes are swapped. In my case, I have a BT of 8:12. The only thing this abnormality affects is fertility. Trust me, the question of “how is Aili here then?” repeats in my mind often. She’s our miracle, and to this day, I couldn’t be more grateful to have had the experience of natural conception. I’m aware that many women do not get that privilege.

We kept trying to conceive naturally until our meeting with an IVF doctor in October of 2024, after our genetic results came back with no luck. In February of 2025, we started the process. We retrieved 19 eggs: 14 mature, nine sent to blast, and seven came back with only one normal and one mosaic. We had one normal embryo, a sweet baby girl. Although I was sad about the results, I also felt a sense of relief and a feeling that this was going to be our second miracle.

I decided to ask my doctor to do a biopsy on my uterus, just to make sure it was clear and ready for transfer. After seeing signs of endometriosis, I scheduled a laparoscopy with Dr. Garrison and had it all removed. I ate healthy, didn’t drink alcohol, did yoga, and had acupuncture. Here we are in January of 2026, with our beautiful girl growing big and strong inside me.

There are so many details I’ve left out, but overall, I'm grateful for the experience, the trials, and the tribulations. Our struggles turn into our strengths, and I am proud of where I am. I’m proud to be able to talk to women of all ages struggling to get pregnant, and help them discover their BT, or help them walk through the trenches of infertility. Most of all, I am proud that I can talk to my daughters about this chromosome abnormality in the future.

The Invisible Pressure of Modern Motherhood

I don’t know if other moms feel this way, but lately I’ve been carrying a quiet heaviness in my spirit: no matter what I do as a mother, I somehow feel I'm doing it wrong. Sometimes the doubt comes from my own mind, a comparison I didn’t mean to make, a small thought that lingers longer than it should. Other times, it comes from something someone else said casually or from a post I didn’t even look for. Either way, it sticks. It settles in and slowly drains the joy from motherhood, leaving me wondering if I’m a good enough mom.

I have a feeling I’m not alone. If I stopped a mom walking through Costco with a toddler in her cart and asked if she’s ever also felt this way, I’m pretty sure she’d agree without hesitation. And the doubts don’t usually come from big, life-altering decisions. Most of the time, they sneak in through the smallest, everyday choices.

Homeschool or public school?

“Should your child use fluoride?” What does safe sleep actually mean? Do we allow picky eating or fight it? What’s the right way to discipline? Screen time… or none at all? Can we share our kids’ faces online?

Organic food? Seed oils?

What else am I supposed to research?

It can feel overwhelming, as if motherhood has quietly become a constant test we’re all afraid to fail.

And yet, I know that for the most part, I’m doing a really freaking good job. I show up. I learn as I go. I love them more than life itself. Still, the questions bombard my mind: Am I doing this right? Am I missing something important? Am I enough? Will I ruin them?

I often say, “When you know better, you do better,” and I believe that’s true.

Growth and wisdom matter. But some days I miss the simplicity of not knowing so much, the freedom of being a little more naive. I miss enjoying my children without every decision feeling weighed down by outside voices, opinions, and expectations.

So, today, I want to pause and offer encouragement to myself and to every other mom who needs to hear it. I want to offer it to out-of-season moms too. If you’ve walked through the trenches and no longer have little ones at home, please seek out a young mom and tell her she’s doing a good job. You’ve never been a mom in this wild era of limitless information. It’s overwhelming. Be gracious. Offer wisdom gently. Your encouragement carries more weight than you realize.

To the moms in it right now: do your best—not someone else’s best or the internet’s best. Do your best. Follow your convictions and the values placed on your heart. When you need wisdom, seek it from someone who truly knows you, your children, your home, and your heart.

Most of all, enjoy it. Enjoy it with the dishes piled high and leftover mac and cheese eaten straight from the pot. Enjoy it from the bathroom floor as you hold your sobbing toddler mid-meltdown. I know it’s sometimes easier said than done, but these days are beautiful, even in their mess and exhaustion. Don’t let the noise and endless comparisons steal the joy of motherhood.

You’re doing better than you think.

Tiny Ninjas, Big Fun

Huge, barrel-shaped cushions, a daunting, rickety bridge, and two giant warp walls tower over you. It’s an epic obstacle course waiting to be conquered and explored with rolls, kicks, vaults, and climbs. That’s what it looks like through the eyes of your little ninja when they first enter Chico’s newest kids’ activity space. Those barrels, well, they’re actually more kid-sized than huge, the warp walls are challenging but not ginormous, and as for that ‘rickety’ swing bridge, it’s a great place for practicing balance skills.

Haley and Brian Clark designed Sweet Ninjas after visiting numerous facilities and attending conferences nationwide focused on child development, in association with their WaterSprites Swim School. Haley says of their new movement gym, “It’s really built around the little guys. I love what they’re doing in this space around the country, and we didn’t really have a lot of those options

here in Chico.” They developed their innovative center specifically for young children, not a gymnastics center with a program for younger kids, but a place focused solely on providing an arena for young children to try, fail, learn, and then succeed.

The name reflects the two programs featured in the space: Sweet Peas, an educational gymnastics curriculum for ages six months to six years and NinjaZone, a combination program featuring gymnastics, martial arts, and obstacle training for ages three to eight.

Garrett Vincent is the program coordinator at Sweet Ninjas and has been fully committed since he and Brian attended NinjaCon to experience the concept firsthand. He notes that it’s about developing a child’s physical skills while also building them as people. “It’s not just learning ninja skills, flips, and

jumps—you’re also learning how to be a good person, how to wait your turn, what it feels like to fail, to not give up, and then to finally achieve that goal.”

Each skill is assigned a point value, and ninjas are given the opportunity to ‘level up’ based on what they’ve learned. They hold ceremonies where they can showcase the skills they have learned to their family, receive recognition for their hard work, and earn a new-colored ninja T-shirt and headband as a reward for reaching their skill goals.

The curriculum changes every two weeks to focus on different skills, but the class structure remains the same. It starts with some sort of trampoline warmups, maybe forward rolls or skipping, then floor work consisting of games for the younger groups or core and dynamic stretching for the school-aged classes. Next, come the favorites—the three obstacle courses.

Each course focuses on two specific skills, followed by fun traversals where the kids are getting used to moving their bodies through the space. Garrett shows off the skills he’s working on in the current course: a cat grab to a turn vault, followed by a safety slide. Haley says, “They have fun just jumping and being crazy, but then you watch them get better and better. They learn how to land, how to take all that weight and momentum, absorb it, and roll it into the next movement.”

Sweet Peas’ curriculum is developed to help little ones reach various milestones as they grow. Garrett says there are fewer ninja obstacles and more songs, brain games, and muscle building. They practice hanging from bars, balancing, playing with shapes and colors, and exploring movement with squeaky ‘lily pads’ and brightly colored foam shapes.

Both programs are highly adaptable, inclusive, and engaging for the kids. They are led by four dedicated coaches: Ninja Garrett, Ninja Matt, Ninja Phoenix, and Ninja Zinnia. Their backgrounds include recreation, dance, snowboarding, and education. Haley explains, “When hiring a coach, we look for someone who is willing to learn things from another perspective, who can slow down and watch for the signs of readiness and coordination before moving on to the next level. All of our coaches are great at meeting kids where they are.”

The classes are capped at six, so coaches can provide one-on-one attention to each participant. Brian says that Sweet Ninjas is “providing someplace where parents feel comfortable letting their kids learn how to jump off things, swing off bars, hang upside down… things that maybe kids today don’t do on their own.”

Garrett smiles and says, “We are trying to make sweet ninjas. They’re ninjas, but we want to make sure they’re also kind.”

If you have a Sweet Ninja in the making, visit www.sweetninjas.com, where you can learn more about the program and register your sweet pea or ninja. You can also find them on Facebook and Instagram @sweet_ninjas_chico.

Century 21 Select in Chico

Effie Khaki’s reputation in Chico real estate is built on trust, experience, and an unwavering commitment to the community she proudly calls home. Effie moved to Chico in 1976, graduated from Chico State with a bachelors degree in finance, married her husband, and had two children before starting her real estate career in 1989. In the nearly 37 years since, she has become one of the most recognizable names in Chico real estate. With over 1,000 transactions totaling over $300 million, she has earned every award imaginable—many earned multiple times—including C21's Centurion, Diamond, top listing, and top producing awards, all while raising an adoring family in Chico.

Known for her immense market knowledge, personalized service, and strong negotiation skills, Effie guides buyers and sellers with confidence through every step of the process. Her reputation for integrity, local expertise, and genuine care makes her a trusted partner for anyone looking to buy or sell in Chico. Clients value her clear communication, attention to detail, and ability to make complex transactions feel seamless, ensuring a positive and rewarding real estate experience from start to finish.

If you're buying or selling a home, call Effie and put her experience to work for you!

(530) 514-3334 effiekhaki@gmail.com www.effiekhaki.com

Cool Kid: Macey Layne

Nunes

At just 11 years old, Macey dances with a confidence and spark that makes you forget her age but remember her name. She brings equal parts talent, heart, and sparkle wherever she goes. Whether she’s leaping across the studio floor or quietly excelling in the classroom, this Chico native is proof that passion, discipline, and joy can move in perfect rhythm.

Born at Enloe Hospital and raised in a loving and lively household where everyone (yes, even the dog) has an “M” name, Macey loves being the oldest sibling to Maddox, 9, and Molly, 7. Family is everything to her, and some of her favorite memories come from traveling, especially a trip to Hawaii for her parents’ 10-year wedding anniversary. Another standout moment? Heading to New York City to train with the Rockettes and see The Nutcracker performed by the New York City Ballet.

Macey began dancing at just two years old, drawn to movement anytime music played. Today, jazz is her favorite style

because it allows her to move fast and show off her personality. Her favorite performance to date was a jazz quartet called Sushi, choreographed by her mentor, Neisa Schuler, and made even sweeter because she performed it alongside her best friends. When dancing at home, her favorite songs include “Lush Life,” “Stateside,” and “Silent Treatment.”

Described by friends as sweet, sassy, and stylish, Macey brings that same energy to school. English is her favorite subject, and she’s proud to have earned straight A’s, made the principal’s honor roll, been elected to Student Council, and received a Quarter Award for Integrity. She balances it all by planning ahead, setting schedules, and honoring rest days, advice she gladly shares with other kids chasing big dreams.

Her dedication to growth has taken her far beyond Chico. Last summer, Macey spent two weeks training with the American Ballet Theatre’s Young Dancer Program in Southern California. This year, she’ll continue her dance journey with training in Boise and Orange County, while also taking extra classes at North State Ballet, where many teachers, including Neisa Schuler, have played a huge role in shaping her as both a dancer and a person.

Macey is inspired by actor and dancer Freya Skye, admiring her maturity and ability to work alongside older performers. When she’s not dancing or doing homework, you’ll find her hanging out with friends at Savor Ice Cream or Raw Bar, creating her own choreography, or watching Dance Moms.

What Macey loves most about Chico is its close-knit feel. “Everyone knows everyone,” she says.

With dreams of becoming a professional dancer and appearing in Disney movies, Macey’s future is as bright as her work ethic. Her advice to others is simple and sincere: try your hardest, keep practicing, have fun, and never give up. And judging by the way she moves through life, she means every word.

Spring Pop‑Culture Picks for Moms & Kids

From tools that make life smoother to stories that uplift and events that celebrate community, this season is about connection and warmth. Grab your calendar, cozy up with a good book, and get ready—spring in Butte County is calling!

Must-Have App for Moms: MamaZen If spring has you juggling schedules, emotions, and kids’ activities all at once, MamaZen is your digital reset button. Designed specifically for moms, this app blends emotional support with practical mindfulness tools; think guided breathwork, short stress-relief sessions, and AI-powered emotional coaching tailored to the ups and downs of parenting. It’s like carrying a mental wellness coach in your pocket to help you shift from reactive to responsive parenting with calm and confidence.

Podcast You'll Love: Wow in the World Blast off on brainy adventures with Wow in the World! Hosted by Guy Raz and Mindy Thomas, this hit family podcast turns seemingly ordinary science stories into laugh-out-loud explorations. Expect fascinating facts about the brain, space, animals, inventors, and more, all delivered in a way that kids get and moms appreciate. It’s brain food and belly laughs in one.

Spring Read for Moms: The Gift of Imperfect Parenting by Brené Brown Spring is all about growth and this beautifully honest book by Brené Brown helps moms grow into themselves while raising little humans. Brown’s signature mix of heart, humor, and research invites you to trade perfection for presence, and

teaches you how to parent with courage, connection, and joy. It’s the kind of book you’ll highlight, revisit, and pass along to friends.

Family Movie Event: The Pout‑Pout Fish Release Date: March 20, 2026 in theaters near you.

This animated adventure brings the beloved book character Mr. Fish, voiced by Nick Offerman, to life, as he embarks on a friendship-filled, undersea quest to save his home. With themes of courage, community, and fun under the waves, it’s a spring theater pick your whole family will enjoy.

The Pout-Pout Fish debuted in 2008 and has grown into 30+ books. Its hype comes from catchy rhymes, bright illustrations, and relatable emotional lessons that help kids understand feelings, kindness, and resilience, making it a long-time favorite for families and something to look forward to.

Wildflower & Nature Festival

Saturday, April 4, 2026. 10 AM to 4 PM. Riverbend Park, (50 Montgomery St, Oroville).

Spring in Butte County means wildflowers, community, and sunshine! The Wildflower & Nature Festival is a beloved annual event featuring live music, kids’ crafts, nature walks, food trucks, and family activities all celebrating the beauty of the season. It’s a perfect way to get outside, meet neighbors, and let your kids explore while you soak in spring vibes.

Jondea Erisman is the owner and attorney of Erisman Law, a boutique estate planning and probate firm serving Oroville, Chico, and nearby communities. Known for strategic, detail-driven guidance, she creates a personalized, empowering client experience in estate planning, trust administration, and probate. As a mom and entrepreneur, Jondea blends legal expertise with real-life perspective. She believes planning is about people, not paperwork, and helps families build clarity, security, and lasting legacies with confidence.

You’re exhausted, anxious, and constantly hearing “your labs look normal” — but you know something feels off. You’re not crazy. Motherhood doesn’t have to feel this hard. Lauren Sanchez, Head Practitioner at Regulated Health, helps busy moms uncover root causes behind burnout, hormone shifts, anxiety, and low energy. Through comprehensive functional lab testing and nervous-system-informed care, she connects dots between mental and physical health to create personalized, data-backed care plans designed for real life.

Whitney Teal, a Chico native and credentialed teacher with over 10 years of experience, offers small-group math support for students in grades 2–9. Her approach builds confidence, critical thinking, and perseverance—skills that extend far beyond math. Summer sessions are ideal for closing learning gaps or getting ahead before the school year begins. Located off White Avenue in a calm, professional setting.

Inspiring Students Through Literacy, Adventure, and Hands ‑ On Learning

Danielle Astengo, now in her fourth year at Inspire High School, is more than just a teacher; she’s a catalyst for curiosity, creativity, and student empowerment. Before joining Inspire, Danielle studenttaught at Chico Country Day Junior High and has also taught academic writing at Chico State, honing a unique approach that blends rigor with realworld application. At Inspire, she teaches English 10, English 11, AP classes, dual enrollment, and senior advisory, engaging students at every level.

One of her most exciting projects?

Inspire’s Lending Library. With no formal library on campus, Danielle and her students saw a problem and solved it. They believe reading is a basic human right, so they spent more than 48 hours and raised $1,000 on DonorsChoose to launch a student-run library. Yes, one of the libraries is a repurposed microwave. Each class contributed, developing funding plans, design ideas, maintenance strategies, and sustainability proposals. Flyers, announcements, and grant writing were all part of the project. Students didn’t just get books; they got ownership, pride, and a real-world lesson in problem-

solving. The results? Excited students, empowered learners, and a school culture that values creativity, initiative, and collaboration.

When she’s not changing the way teens think about English, Danielle is taking full advantage of the outdoors. She serves as Advisor for Inspire’s Outdoor Adventure Club, which she “adopted” in 2024. Supported by parent volunteers, she guides approximately 10 students on monthly full-moon hikes along Humboldt Road, participates in trail cleanups, and supports fundraising events such as the Monkey Face Hike-a-Thon. The club was originally driven by Shawna Evans, a parent, who established it on behalf of her nonprofit, Project Liv. These experiences emphasize environmental stewardship, teamwork, and the joy of discovery. Danielle also attended the Forestry Institute for Teachers (FIT) last summer, deepening her passion for environmental literacy, which she weaves into both classroom and outdoor learning.

Danielle’s personal life, not surprisingly, mirrors her professional values. She enjoys yoga, cycling, camping, and

backpacking trips with her 9-year-old daughter, Nora. She also loves creatively reimagining and elevating recipes in the kitchen and making them clean yet bold and flavorful. Her energy is contagious, whether she’s in the kitchen, on a trail, or mentoring students to chase their own passions. Her philosophy is simple: let students drive the ship while she mentors and supports them.

Danielle Astengo shows that teaching doesn’t have to be stuck behind a desk. She is proving that education is more than assignments; it’s about experiences that stick. Inspire students aren’t just reading books or taking tests; they’re learning how to think, explore, and make an impact. Through literacy projects, outdoor adventures, and mentorship, she is setting the stage for excitement, enthusiasm, and lifelong learning. Danielle shows her students and the wider community that education is most powerful when it is hands-on, student-driven, and fueled by passion. She embodies the importance of always showing up and giving your full effort, even when it’s easier not to.

Bri Downard

Sienna Joy Painting

Bri Downard, founder of Sienna Joy Painting, believes art can be an incredible pathway for making space to slow down, connect, and express yourself without pressure. After 15 years teaching art and Spanish, she now pours herself fulltime into designing soulful, playful experiences that welcome people of all ages and abilities.

Her connection to art is deeply personal. After a gymnastics injury left her with chronic headaches for seven years, painting became a cathartic path to healing and self-expression; a belief in art therapy is woven into everything she offers. Her light-filled studio is calming and welcoming, where laughter flows and creativity takes over.

Bri curates fully customized experiences: paint-and-sip gatherings, sisterhood sessions, date nights, birthdays, workshops, team retreats, pop-ups, and fundraisers, tailoring nearly any medium from acrylics to plaster, with all materials and guidance included. Events can be in-studio or brought to you.

Discover the joy of creating with Bri. Visit Sienna Joy Painting to book or subscribe to her newsletter to stay inspired.

Katie Wittmeier Jamie Morrison

Butte County Cheer

Butte Cheer Company (BCC) is setting the standard for cheer in Chico with heart, excellence, and an incredibly welcoming culture. This women-owned AllStar cheer gym is built on safety, confidence, and clear communication with families. Parents rave about the clean, thoughtfully designed facility and coaches who genuinely care about each athlete’s growth.

As entrepreneurs, Owner Katie Wittmeier and Program Director Jamie Morrison, are powerful role models, showing youth what’s possible through leadership, grit, and chasing big dreams. BCC offers Cheer 101, beginning tumbling, intermediate and advanced classes, strength training, recreational classes, open gym, summer camps, birthday parties, private lessons, and half-year and fullyear competition teams for all ages. With user-friendly scheduling, private lessons, and fundraising opportunities for athletes, BCC makes cheer accessible, fun, and empowering.

More than a gym, BCC is a place where confidence is built, friendships are formed, and kids learn to believe in themselves on the mat and beyond.

Kaliahna Tripp ALL RISK Uniforms

Kaliahna Tripp has built a career rooted in service to others and unwavering belief in people. Best known as a co-founder of Happy at Home, an in-home care company launched 13 years ago, she has spent over 15 years alongside families through life’s most meaningful transitions. From end of life care to now supporting the beginning. Over the last four years, Kaliahna has spent her time as a birth-worker and is currently a studentmidwife.Her passion for birth was shaped early on, growing up with three younger siblings and having the profound opportunity to witness and support their births—experiences that cemented her lifelong confidence in women’s strength and capabilities.

That same heart for service now extends into an unexpected thriving arena. Alongside her husband Josh, who serves with CAL FIRE’s Butte County Fire-Unit, Kaliahna co-founded ALL RISK Uniforms, a firefighter-focused uniform company recently celebrating its oneyear anniversary. In its first year, the Redding-based business produced and sold over 425 Class A suits, expanded to serve sheriff and EMS, secured rights to print the CAL FIRE logo, and opened a second satellite location in Ione. Offering custom Class A fittings, embroidery, tools, boots, leather, online ordering, and Chico pickup, the company supports first responders across the North State and beyond while continuing to grow and expand.

Whether studying midwifery, helping run three successful businesses, or traveling with her husband and three children, Kaliahna leads with empathy, grit, and vision, proving that women entrepreneurs don’t just build businesses—they leave legacies.

991 Lake Blvd suite A1, Redding | 530-215-1522 www.allriskuniforms.com | management@allriskuniforms.com

Erin Lackey

Erin Lackey Photography

Erin Lackey seamlessly transforms family, senior, children, and pet portraits into timeless works of art. As a proud mom of three serving the greater Oroville area, Erin creates memorable and authentic sessions in-studio or outdoors. Clients enjoy a step-by-step curated experience from planning to a professional slideshow viewing and ordering appointment, receiving gallery-quality display art and custom luxury albums. Erin creates heirloom-quality images that transform homes, celebrate your story, and preserve photos for generations. (916) 415-8667 | www.erinlackey.com IG @erinlackeyphoto

Annie Stratton Stratton & Son Fence

Annie Stratton, a third-generation owner at Stratton & Son Fence, is helping Paradise one fence and one gate at a time. When the Camp Fire destroyed the family shop, leaving behind little more than a partially melted work truck, Annie stepped in alongside her father, Ryan, to rebuild their legacy from the ground up. Her path into the family business was unexpected yet deeply meaningful. What began in the wake of unimaginable loss quickly became her calling.

Before fully stepping into the family business, Annie’s path followed a different direction. Working in the trades was never something she initially planned, but as she and her father rebuilt, Annie discovered a passion for hands-on craftsmanship and the deeper purpose of helping restore her hometown. Together, they carry forward the legacy established by her grandfather, “Papa Ron,” who founded Stratton & Son Fence in 1971.

Annie leads hands-on residential, commercial, and community projects from Paradise Unified School District fencing to Meriam Park and developments throughout Butte County. She is also in the process of purchasing her childhood home while building a new house for her father on the same property, a full-circle moment that reflects her family’s deep roots in Paradise. Annie believes small communities are the foundation of everything, and being part of rebuilding and strengthening that foundation matters most. Through every project, Annie is preserving a legacy while helping keep Paradise connected, protected, and thriving for generations to come.

Danielle Harck

REALTOR®

Danielle Harck is a dedicated, relationship-driven Realtor with the Laffins Team, serving buyers and sellers throughout Butte County. With five years of real estate experience, she is known for her strong advocacy, clear communication, and willingness to go the extra mile for her clients. Danielle is passionate about helping individuals and families realize that homeownership is achievable and about creating opportunities for long-term, generational stability through real estate.

As a full-time agent, Danielle customizes every client experience, providing guidance, education, and steady support from the first conversation to her favorite moment—handing over the keys. She treats real estate as a lifestyle, more than a career—it’s about building trust and lasting relationships. Outside of work, Danielle enjoys hiking around Chico, reading, and spending time with her husband, Ian, their vibrant six-year-old son, Leo, and their pets. Her grounded, people-first approach allows clients to feel informed, confident, and truly cared for throughout the process.

Kimberley Humble

Supportive Conceptions Surrogacy Agency

Kimberley is a Chico native and founder/ owner of Supportive Conceptions Surrogacy Agency, where she matches surrogates with families looking to have a baby with the help of a caring woman. Kimberley has been a doula for 20+ years, is a mother of three, and has been a surrogate three times herself. Specializing in Northern California matches, she has dedicated her life to helping and guiding surrogates throughout the process and helping parents on their journey to parenthood for the past 12+ years. She loves every second of it.

(530) 518-0421

supportiveconceptionssurrogacy.com kim@supportiveconceptionssurrogacy.com

Morgan Dietz

Morgan Dietz and her husband, Adam, have literally “grown up Chico.” They met and fell in love while attending PV High School and have enjoyed raising their three children surrounded by family and friends in this same caring community. For more than 20 years, Morgan has served Chico families as a childbirth educator and doula support specialist, combining her expertise in fitness, nutrition, and child development with a deep respect for the perinatal process. She personalizes her care for each mother and family, specializing in risk reduction, redemptive and physiologic birthing, relational and lactation support, and partner and sibling inclusion.

With humble curiosity, unwavering optimism, and a commitment to exceptional care, Morgan approaches each pregnancy and birth as a unique, transformative experience. Honored to be considered one of Chico’s hometown helpers, she is ready to guide your family through this life-changing adventure. Reach out today and discover how personalized doula care can make your birthing experience extraordinary.

Miracles In The Making Childbirth Education & Support www.miraclemaking.org | (530) 433-4111 miraclesinthemakingmorgan@gmail.com

Jessica Hinsz is the owner of Soleil Lash and Beauty, now thriving in its brand-new Paradise location. As a licensed esthetician and lash artist, Jessica specializes in skincare and timeless beauty, with a heartfelt passion for helping women look and feel their absolute best. Through luxurious facials, expert lash services, and indulgent spray tans, she creates a calming, high-end experience designed to restore, refresh, and enhance natural beauty. Soleil Lash and Beauty offers a serene escape where self-care feels intentional.

466 Pearson Rd, Paradise (530) 520-3465 www.SoleilLashandBeauty.com

Sarah

Livingston Chico Montessori

Founded in 1973, Chico Montessori Children’s House has nurtured over 3,000 preschool and TK children in a caring, child-led environment. Their blended classrooms encourage independence, curiosity, hands-on learning and a lifelong love of discovery all rooted in the Montessori philosophy. Led by director and owner, Sarah Livingston since 2013 they believe that learning begins with each child’s interests. Flexible full and part-time schedules are available from 8:00 AM through 5:30 PM starting at two years six months and still in diapers.

Nikki Baker

Nicole “Nikki” Baker, a mother of three, turned her youngest daughter’s Level 3 non-verbal autism into a life-changing mission to help others. After 15 years in healthcare/insurance, she left the corporate world to become an independent facilitator and founded Guided Growth Solutions LLC, supporting families and individuals with developmental and learning disabilities across the North State.

Nikki guides clients through complex systems, helping them access services and create person-centered plans to implement self-determination policies, all at no out-of-pocket cost through Far Northern Regional Center. Her clients connect with her because she’s been there, navigating waitlists, difficult conversations, and unknowns. She now empowers families to achieve growth, progress, and relief through dedicated advocacy. Outside of work, Nikki is an adventure enthusiast who loves hunting, fishing, and exploring mountains and lakes with her family. Married to her husband Frank for 10 years, she blends motherhood and mission-driven work with heart, humor, and authenticity.

Julie, and her husband, Jake, took over as owners of Chico Creek Dance Centre in 2019. They continue to work alongside Artistic Director Debbie Jorritsma and help grow the dance studio for our community and dancers. Julie began working for Debbie 14 years ago, helping with costumes for performances. Eventually, she grew to head up the costume department for the full-length ballets at Chico Community Ballet and took on other administrative roles. Chico Creek Dance Centre’s extraordinary team of instructors provides dance classes for all ages, levels, and styles.

Discovering The fountain of youth

Our journey into grandparenthood began in July of 2004 with the birth of our first grandchild. Over the years, we were blessed with 13 more grandchildren and one great-grandchild. That makes 15 in all; eight boys and seven girls ranging in age from five months to 21 years old.

Our grandchildren were born in Indiana, Colorado, Virginia, and California. While their births span the country, we are fortunate that 11 of the 15 now live here in Chico. The remaining four live in Virginia, where their father proudly serves our country in the United States Navy.

As retired school teachers, one elementary and one high school, we have spent our lives with children of all ages, and that experience carries naturally into grandparenthood. Grandma thrives with the younger grandchildren, baking cookies, doing crafts, and hosting sleepovers, while Grandpa has the teenage years covered. Whether it’s watching sporting events with a house full of cheering grandkids, volunteering as a cross-country and track coach, or understanding what makes teenagers tick, he is right at home.

Though we are in our mid-seventies, our grandchildren keep us young. On any given day, we may attend athletic events, school plays, award ceremonies, 4-H fairs, church events, birthday parties, recitals, or graduations. Occasionally, one grandchild’s team plays another’s, and the

question arises, who do we cheer for? Of course, we cheer for both. When multiple grandchildren are on the same team, our cheering is twice as loud.

Holidays bring the most wonderful joy. The Fourth of July is often spent at Lake Almanor, squeezing far too many people into a cabin meant for fewer and watching fireworks light the sky. Halloween ranges from toddler pumpkins to teenage mystery costumes, and Christmas is filled with togetherness and personalized parent-guided gift-giving. Our home comfortably welcomes large gatherings, and we are grateful to host them.

A sign on our porch reads, “Grandpa and Grandma’s, where cousins become best friends.” We live that out through frequent family gatherings, front-yard softball games, and younger grandchildren playing with the same toys their mothers once loved. We treasure both together time and one-on-one moments, often over lunch at In-N-Out, where listening matters most. As our grandchildren grow and move toward adulthood, we support their college, vocational, or marriage choices and remain their biggest cheerleaders.

We believe our grandchildren are our greatest legacy. Alongside their parents, we strive to model faith, honesty, kindness, gratitude, self-discipline, and hard work, hoping they always know how deeply they are loved.

SPRING COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Check out all of the things we have to look forward to this spring! Please note that dates and times are subject to change and should be verified with the host ahead of time.

ONGOING

From Bun to One @ Chico Library

1108 Sherman Ave., Chico

Every 4th Tues of the month, 3:30-4:30pm A monthly gathering for pregnant moms (Bun) and moms of infants up to one year old (One) to support and connect with each other! Hosted by the Chico Mothers' Club. FREE

Growing Together Family Playgroup

5250 Olive Hwy. Ste J, Oroville Wednesdays, 10-11:30am & 1:30-3pm Children ages 0-5 and their caregivers can enjoy story time, open play, art, music & movement, and more! FREE

Gateway Science Museum

625 Esplanade, Chico Thursdays, Fridays, Saturdays, 11am-4pm Spring exhibit: Motion Mania Have you ever wondered, why some people love roller coasters so much? Is it the speed? Is it the inherent danger? Is it the fascination with the physics? Motion Mania unlocks these answers through the build, design, and test process. Full details at www.csuchico.edu/gateway

Honeybee Discovery Center

727 W. 4th St., Orland

1st consecutive Fri & Sat of each month

Friday: 3-6pm, Saturday: 11am-2pm

Adults: $3, Kids 6-12: $2, 5 and Under: FREE Current exhibit: “Bee-Natomy 101” A look into the anatomy of the amazing honeybee.

Nature ABCs | 1968 E. 8th St., Chico Fridays (Aug-Jun), 9 & 10:30am

Families of children 0-5 can gather to enjoy an hour of fun activities including an animal visit, storytime, singing and dancing, an art project, and a nature walk in Bidwell Park. FREE

Upper Ridge Pop-In Playtime

13917 S. Park Dr., Magalia Fridays 10am-11am

Bring your kids ages 0-5 and enjoy a wide range of toys to play with, including pretend play and building toys. Coffee and tea are provided for the adults. Pre-registration is encouraged. FREE

VOCS Community Resource Rooms

Every 2nd or 4th Saturday of the month

Chico, Gridley & Oroville locations

Pick up basic art supplies, learning materials, activity ideas, and premade resource kits. Open to all with no requirement for registration. See valleyoakchildren.org/home/ calendar. FREE

Babies Love Books

Chico, Fridays 10am-10:30am

Chico Library, 1108 Sherman Ave

Paradise, Tuesdays 10am-10:30am

Paradise Library, 5922 Clark Rd

Oroville, Thursdays 10am-10:30am

Oroville Library, 1820 Mitchell Ave

Durham, Tuesdays 10am-10:30am

Durham Library, 2545 Durham-Dayton Hwy

Sweet intro to reading with songs, fingerplays, and baby-friendly books. FREE

Toddler Storytime – Chico Library

Thursdays 10am-11am

Chico Library, 1108 Sherman Ave., Chico Energetic stories and movement activities for wiggly toddlers and caregivers. (buttecounty. librarycalendar.com) FREE

Preschool Storytime – Chico Library

Tuesdays, 10am-11am

Chico Library, 1108 Sherman Ave., Chico Stories, songs, and simple crafts geared for preschoolers and their grownups. FREE

Family Storytime – Gridley

Fridays 10am-11am

Gridley Library, 299 Spruce St., Gridley Holiday stories for the whole family plus simple winter crafts. FREE

March

Butte County Museum Weekend

Fri, Feb 28th - Sat, Mar 1st

Explore Butte County is your host for Butte County Museum Weekend! Visit museums, galleries, and cultural centers across the county all-month long. During Museum Weekend, all venues open 10am-4pm, with new exhibits and special programming at each location. Visit www.explorebuttecounty.com for more information. Cost: Most free, varies by location.

The Great American Irish Fair Sat-Sun, Mar 14-15 | Starts at 10am

650 Antelope Blvd, Red Bluff

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with two full days of live Irish and Celtic-inspired music, artisan vendors, and food trucks serving everything from traditional corned beef to creative Irishthemed bites. Families will love kid-friendly activities, games, and space to run and play, while adults can soak in the music, sip a festive beverage, or shop handmade goods.

Tickets $10-15

2nd Annual Ridge Homesteading Faire Saturday, March 28, 2026

9:00 a.m.–1:00 p.m.

1100 Elk Lane, Paradise

Get hands-on with practical skills at this family-friendly celebration of sustainable living. Local experts, artisans, and educators showcase gardening, food preservation, and preparedness, giving attendees tips to thrive at home and in the garden. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader or just curious, the fair connects you to community, knowledge, and inspiration.

Wildflower Season: Table Mountain

North Table Mountain Ecological Reserve Oroville, CA | March–early May 2026

Open daily sunrise to sunset

As spring unfolds, Table Mountain becomes a vibrant canvas of lupine, poppies, and delicate native blooms. Peak bloom is typically late March through mid-April, depending on rainfall and temperature. Easy-to-moderate trails lead hikers through colorful displays and seasonal waterfalls. Arrive early on weekends for quieter trails and better parking. Bring water, snacks, sun protection, and comfortable hiking shoes. Binoculars are great for bird watching, and don’t forget your camera to capture the scenery. FREE

Spring Jamboree

Sat, Mar 28 | 10am-1pm

Caper Acres

500 South Park Drive, Chico Hippity-hop on over to Caper Acres for CARD’s 63rd annual Spring Jamboree! Celebrate the start of spring with fun spring crafts, games, bounce houses, a scavenger hunt, and get your annual photo op with the Easter Bunny. This free, family-favorite community event is fun for everyone! FREE

April

Chico Marketplace Spring Festival

Fri, Apr 3 | 11am-2pm

1950 E 20th Street, Chico

Celebrate spring skies with kite flying, family games, and outdoor activities. Kids can build or decorate their own kites before launching them. FREE! Full details can be found at www.ShopChicoMarketplace.com

18th Annual Wildflower & Nature Festival Sat, Apr 4 | 10am-4pm Riverbend Park

50 Montgomery St, Oroville

The Wildflower & Nature Festival shines a spotlight on natural resources and handmade products in Butte County. The event is free admission, offering activities and entertainment for all ages such as children’s crafts, river kayak tours, live music, food trucks, and a beer garden. FREE

Thursday Night Market

Thur, Apr 9 | 6pm-9pm

Downtown Chico

The Downtown Chico Thursday Night Market returns April 9–September 24, 6–9pm, along Broadway between 2nd and 5th Streets.

Families stroll vendor booths, enjoy live entertainment, browse handmade crafts, and sample local food and farm-fresh produce in a lively open-air street festival celebrating Chico’s vibrant community spirit. FREE

Chico Kite Day

Sunday, April 12 | 12pm-3pm

1900 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Pkwy, Chico

Celebrate spring skies with kite flying, family games, and outdoor activities. Kids can build or decorate their own kites before launching them. FREE

An Evening in Paris: Inclusive Prom

Sat, Apr 18 | 5pm-7:30pm

CARD Center | 545 Vallombrosa Ave, Chico Bonjour nos amis! Get ready for a fun and memorable night with CARD! This FREE inclusive prom is specially designed for teens and young adults (ages 13–25) living with disabilities and those who would benefit from a lower-sensory, more inclusive prom experience. FREE

Chico Wildflower Century Weekend

Sat, Apr 25 - Sun, Apr 26

A scenic cycling event featuring family-friendly routes through blooming spring landscapes with rest stops and activities. Visit www.WildFlowerCentury.org to register

May

Spring Concerts in the Park

Fri, May 1 | 5:30pm-8pm

Riverbend Park | 50 Montgomery St, Oroville

Live music performances by talented local artists, create a vibrant and enjoyable atmosphere for all attendees every Friday evening in May! In addition to the incredible music, you can explore a variety of local vendors offering delicious food, refreshing beverages, and unique items. Bring your friends and family to this lively event filled with fun and entertainment. Don't miss out on the perfect opportunity to enjoy great music and support your local community!! FREE. Full details at www.FRRPD.com

Rose Garden Party

Sat, May 2 | 2pm-4pm

Creekside Rose Garden | 545 Vallombrosa, Chico

Bask in a dreamy springtime soirée at CARD's Rose Garden Party. Gather your entire family or a group of friends and join us at the Creekside Rose Garden for a warm day of flower crowns, crafts, yard games, live music, photo opportunities, delicious small bites, and refreshing beverages. It's sure to be an elegant springtime event like never before! Tickets TBD. Full details at www.ChicoRec.gov

2026 Paradise Chocolate Fest

Sat, May 9 | 10am-5pm

Terry Ashe Park, Paradise

The 2026 Paradise Chocolate Fest returns Saturday, May 9, from 10am–5pm at Terry Ashe Park, celebrating 21 years of “Sweetening Kids’ Lives.” Families enjoy chocolate tastings, live music, contests, artisan vendors, and a lively Kidz-Zone with games, crafts, and inflatables—all supporting youth programs across the Paradise Ridge community. Full details at chocolatefest.us

K-9 Classic

Sat, May 16th | 10am-1pm Degarmo Park, 3428 Esplanade in Chico Leash up your pup and join us for CARD’s annual dog celebration! This fun, free community event is guaranteed to have tails wagging. Head to DeGarmo Park for paw-some activities for both dogs and humans, pet-friendly vendors, and the infamous Mutt Strut, where your dog can be best in show! It’s a paw-sitively perfect day dedicated to our loyal companions! FREE! Full details at www.ChicoRec.gov