• Ask a Teacher: What would you like for Christmas?
  • Fitness: Accept the Challenge
  • Beauty: SPF that fights wrinkles!
  • Moms on 88.3 The Wind: Sunday Devotions

Giveaway: 4 Tickets to A Christmas Story – The Musical

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A Christmas Story – The Musical brings the classic 1983 movie to hilarious life on stage!

Based on the perennial holiday movie favorite,  A Christmas Story – The Musical chronicles young and bespectacled Ralphie Parker as he schemes his way toward the holiday gift of his dreams, an official Red Ryder® Carbine-Action 200-Shot Range Model Air Rifle (“You’ll shoot your eye out kid!”).  An infamous leg lamp, outrageous pink bunny pajamas, a maniacal department store Santa, and a triple-dog-dare to lick a freezing flagpole are just a few of the distractions that stand between Ralphie and his Christmas wish.

A Christmas Story – The Musical is a dazzling triple-dog-dare of a good time sure to warm your heart this holiday season!

We are kicking this giveaway off NOW and we triple-dog-dare you to enter. We will announce a winner at the end of the week. The winner of this giveaway will win four tickets to preview night on November 22nd. 

If you want to purchase your tickets now instead of taking your chances on the giveaway, you may place your order by calling the Landers Theatre Box Office at (417)869-1334 or by clicking here to order online.

The show will run November 23rd – December 9th and is rated PG.

HOW TO ENTER TO WIN!

ENTER ONLINE: To put your name in the online drawing for this giveaway, click the word “comment” at the top of this story and tell us–What is your favorite Christmas Movie?

TO ENTER VIA EMAIL: You can also throw your name in the hat by answering the question above via email. Just email us at giveaways(at)SouthwestMissouriMoms.com.

HOW TO INCREASE YOUR ODDS: Increase your odds by simply sending an email to your friends and family about this giveaway and be sure to put giveaways(at)SouthwestMissouriMoms.com on the CC line of your note. We’ll give you an extra chance to win for every person you tell.

MORE BONUS ENTRIES: And here’s another way to get extra chances to win: Post an update on Facebook about this giveaway  and let us know that you told your Facebook friends. If you’re a Twitter fan, feel free to tweet this news as well for extra chances to win. (Tell us in your posted comment or email if you shared it on Facebook or Twitter or both.)

Please note that winners are always chosen at random using a random number generator so anyone can win. Winner will be announced Friday, November 16th.

Sunday Devotion: Happy Brain

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by Jennifer Duncan

I heard about a book recently that I like to think of as “the happy brain” book.  It was written by Shawn Achor, and is entitled, The Happiness Advantage.  The gist of the book is that there are two sides to the brain, the happy side which focuses on optimism and things we perceive as “good,”…and the negative side which focuses on problems, irritations and disadvantages.  The author suggests that since the brain is a muscle, we can strengthen whichever side of the brain we “exercise” the most.  It is our mental focus that “lights up” one side of the brain or the other, and we are in complete control of where we choose to focus.

This idea makes sense to me.  It matches my experience.  When I focus more on the positive things in life, I feel more optimistic and successful.  I feel more hopeful, and more inclined to expect the best in others.  Whereas, when I focus on criticisms and disappointments, I begin to expect to see more of those negatives. 

A good example of this is in the biblical story of the first sin, in Genesis 3.  When Eve believed the lie that she should eat the fruit God had forbidden, her mind was focused on the one thing she couldn’t have, rather than on the thousands of wonderful fruits God had provided.

Preoccupation with what was forbidden, and indeed harmful, led Eve into big trouble.   Her darkened mind moved from curiosity to outright criticism of the Creator God!  If Eve had instead exercised her “happy brain,” the outcome might have been quite different.  How sad that she forgot to be thankful rather than complaining.

As adult examples, we owe it to our children to model and teach this principle: “Life is happier when we focus on the positive and hopeful things in each day.”  We can teach this by doing these things:

  • Make it a habit to scan your world for the good.  Speak positive statements about the blessings you notice.
  • Choose to think and speak about these positive details, rather than the negatives.
  • Banish all complaining.   This could be made a “rule” with children, but your modeling of it will be more effective.
  • Choose to see failures and problems as opportunities for growth.  Teach children to look at negatives this way.
  • Experiment with your family with some “re-focusing”exercises.
    • Talk each day about something for which you are thankful.  Do this for at least thirty days, with no repeats allowed, to re-train your thought processes.
    • Talk together as a family about someone for whom you are thankful.  Work together to write a note to that person, expressing your gratitude and encouragement.

As we make it a point to deliberately concentrate on the good things of life, we will strengthen our “happy brain” and develop hearts that are truly grateful.

“Rejoice always; pray without ceasing; in everything give thanks;  for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.” 

1 Thessalonians 5:16-18

Jennifer is a graduate of Oklahoma Baptist University and Midwestern Baptist Theological Seminary.  She is mom to two grown (twin) sons, two wonderful daughters-in-law and four granddaughters.  Her late husband, John, pastored two churches in Barry County, Missouri, and one in Chiang Mai, Thailand.  Jennifer serves in teaching, music and lay counseling through her church, Arnhart Baptist Church, Purdy, Missouri.  She also enjoys leading retreats and Bible studies for women.

Local Events: First MOPS Meeting in Cassville

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We are excited to announce for the first time, a MOPS group has formed in Cassville! If you are in the Barry County area, we encourage you to check this group out on Monday night!

Moms + Meals: Cheesy Corn Chowder

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I love soup season, my kids, on the other hand, don’t eat it too well. Sure, they will pick at a bowl of chili or eat all the potatoes out of a bowl of stew, but they never seem to get full and are inevitably begging for a snack before I can even get the dinner dishes put away. A sweet lady at my church introduced me to this yummy corn chowder recipe and my kids love it! They scarf it down and are usually asking for more!

We made a big batch this weekend and it was a hit! I am feeding a family of four and this recipe also leaves us with plenty of leftovers to have on hand for lunches for the week.

Cheesy Corn Chowder:corn chowder

  • 1 pound sausage, cooked and drained
  • 1/2 diced onion
  • 2 diced celery ribs
  • 2 cans of cream of potato soup
  • 1 1/2 empty soup cans of milk
  • 1 can creamed corn
  • 1 can whole kernel corn, drained
  • 1 pound Velveeta cheese
  • salt and pepper to taste
  • chicken broth, make it as “soupy” as you like

Stir frequently in large pot or crock pot. Soup is done with the celery is soft.

Things to do in SWMO: November 2018

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Ozark Empire Fair Hosts: 2 Friends and Junk

November 2-4

One of a kind vintage market event in Oklahoma and Missouri since 2012 started by Sabrina Purkey! vintage.handmade.repurposed.eclectic.farmhouse.chic.antiques.oddities.boutiques.industrial salvage For vendor applications email twofriendsandjunk@yahoo.com.

For more info click here.

Wickman’s Christmas open house. 

November 2-4 9:00-5:00pm

Christmas open house with popcorn and drinks and lots of wonderful Christmas displays for the public to enjoy.

For more info click here.

The Expo Center Hosts: Wingapalooza 2018

November 3rd 11:00-2:00

The top places to get chicken wings in the Springfield Missouri area compete for the coveted People’s and Judge’s Choice Awards in multiple categories. Top local bands perform all day long. We offer boneless and traditional wing samples for everyone while supplies last: over 100,000 wings from over 25 booths were handed out to approximately 4500 attendees last year. All wing samples are free with paid admission.

All of the money we make goes to help kids in the Ozarks. This is seriously the most guilt-free fun you’ll have all year!

Bring an appetite, a thirst for adult beverages, and some capacity for debauchery.

For more info click here. 

2018 Bass Pro Outdoor Fitness Festival 

November 1 Wellness Conference
November 2, 3 Bass Pro Marathon Weekend Expo
November 4 The NewsLeader 5K
November 4 Cohick Half-Marathon
November 4 Mercy Sunshine Marathon-Relay
November 4 Conservation Marathon
November 10, 11 Dogwood Canyon Trail Run Weekend

The Bass Pro Fitness Festival is a series of not-for-profit events during the fall sponsored by Bass Pro, dedicated volunteers and sponsors. Proceeds from these events are shared by Big Brothers Big Sisters, the Ozark Greenways and Wonders of Wildlife. Walk, bike, run or kayak your way to better health with the Bass Pro Shops® Outdoor Fitness Festival!

For more info click here.

The Gillioz Theatre Presents: Blues Travler

November 4th 8:00pm

Blues Traveler — John Popper (lead vocals, harmonica), Chan Kinchla (guitar), Tad Kinchla (bass), Brendan Hill(drums), and Ben Wilson (keyboard) — have a proven reputation for their improvisational live shows and tireless touring. With a total of twelve studio albums — four gold, three platinum, and one six-times platinum — they have sold more than 10 million combined units worldwide and played over 2,000 live shows in front of more than 30 million people. Their hit “Run-Around” is the longest-charting radio single in Billboard history and earned them a Grammy® for Best Rock Performance by a Duo or Group with Vocals.

The group’s most recent release, Blow Up The Moon, was its first collaborative album. Keeping an open-minded perspective on making music, the unique and successful process enlisted a range of artists across the musical spectrum, representing country, pop, reggae and hip-hop.

Keyboardist Ben Wilson says, “Time to load up the gear and get the BT party bus rolling! We are pumped to be back on the road and rocking out for all the BT fans out there!”

Throughout their extensive career, Blues Traveler has earned a massive fanbase of dedicated and loyal followers and continues to do so with each performance.

For tickets and more info click here.

James River Church Hosts: Passion Worship Nights

November 8th and 9th 7:00-10:00pm

After a successful run of dates this past spring, music recording artists Passion is heading out again this fall for the latest round of “Passion Worship Nights,” hitting markets coast to coast. The evening will feature music from Passion and teaching from Louie Giglio, with two-time GRAMMY® nominee Travis Greene.

For tickets and more info click here. 

Hickory Hills Country Club Hosts: The Nutcracker Cookies and Cocoa

November 11th 2:00-4:00pm

Guests will enjoy festive finger foods and sweet treats to accompany their hot cocoa, a special abridged performance of The Nutcracker, a holiday boutique to kick off holiday shopping and raffle baskets including an American Girl doll, a family basket and something just for boys!

VIP ADMISSION: $45
VIP TABLE FOR 12: $540
GENERAL ADMISSION: $35
GA TABLE FOR 12: $420

For tickets and more info click here. 

Abou Ben Adhem Shrine Mosque presents: FEZtival of Trees

November 16-18

The FEZtival of Trees is a family event held at the Shrine Mosque in downtown Springfield!! We will have beautiful Christmas Trees with unwrapped presents underneath up for raffle! There will be visits from Santa, a crafters village for your shopping pleasure and live entertainment!! Admission for 12 and up is $5. Raffle tickets for the trees are $1 each, buy as many as you would like!! Winners of the tree raffle will be notified on Monday, Nov 19th! Hope to see you there!!

For more info click here. 

The 23rd Annual Cup O’Cheer

November 16th 10:00-8:00pm

The 23rd Annual Cup O’Cheer, presented by BKD Wealth Advisors, will showcase five of the area’s most beautiful homes adorned with holiday decor. The event will also feature a market and Holiday Tea at Springfield’s Diamond Room including an exclusive shopping experience, silent auction, and “high tea” and desserts from Simply Delicious. The first 1,000 tickets each come with a china teacup and saucer designed especially for the event by the team at BridgeBlue Sourcing Partners and Obelisk Home. Pre-sale tickets go on sale October 3rd for $35 each. Tickets on the day of the event are $40 each, if available.

For  more tickets and more info click here. 

The Gillioz Theatre Presents: Brothers Osborne

November 16th 8:00pm

Two sons from a working-class family, John and TJ Osborne grew up in a small, Maryland water town writing and playing songs for friends and family in their father’s shed. John moved to Nashville first to play in other bands and two years later, TJ joined him. It was then they formed Brothers Osborne as a twang-and-crunch duo that blends equal parts country and rock into one of the freshest, most identifiable sounds to come out of Nashville in recent years. The singer/songwriter siblings recently earned back-to-back ACM Vocal Duo of the Year Awards along with ACM Music Video of the Year for their Top 10, GRAMMY-nominated single, “It Ain’t My Fault.” The award-winning video also stands as the current CMA Music Video of the Year.

Brothers Osborne also currently reigns as the two-time CMA Vocal Duo of the Year. Brothers Osborne’s debut album PAWN SHOP was released January 2016 and was recently certified Gold by the RIAA. PAWN SHOP features three GRAMMY-nominated tracks including “It Ain’t My Fault,” the Platinum Certified No. 1 smash hit “Stay A Little Longer,” as well as Top 25 hit “21 Summer.” They just released their sophomore album, PORT SAINT JOE, in April and currently have a Top 30 single with “Shoot Me Straight”. Brothers Osborne has previously toured with Chris Stapleton, Eric Church, Little Big Town, Miranda Lambert and more. They are direct support for Dierks Bentley on his Mountain High Tour this summer and recently came back from a sold out headlining tour in the UK.

For tickets and more info click here. 

54th Annual Ozark Christmas Parade

November 17th

Celebrate the magic of Christmas with a spectacular evening Christmas Parade. The 54th Annual Ozark Christmas parade will take place on the evening of Saturday, November 17th on the historic Ozark square. The route begins at Ozark Bank on Jackson Street and proceeds down Jackson to 3rd Street, then turns onto the Historic Downtown Square at Church Street to complete a loop and return to 3rd Street. Arrive early to claim your spot, get pictures with Santa and enjoy holiday entertainment for all ages! The festivities begin at 3PM and the parade begins at 5:30 PM.

If you would like to enter a float in the parade, follow the link to register: https://business.ozarkchamber.com/events/details/54th-annual-ozark-christmas-parade-24129

For questions or additional information find the event on Facebook, call the Ozark Chamber of Commerce at 417-581-6139, or email events@ozarkchamber.com.

The Gillioz Theatre Presents: Moscow Ballet

November 20th 7:00pm

Christmas is coming and so is the one and only Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker. Presenting world class Russian artists, hand-painted sets, Russian Snow Maidens, and jubilant Nesting Dolls – Great Russian Nutcracker brings the Christmas spirit to life for all ages. “Kids wide-eyed with delight!” says the New York Times. Experience the Dove of Peace Tour, spreading goodwill in over 100 cities across North America. Get seats now for the whole family and make memories for a lifetime at Moscow Ballet’s Great Russian Nutcracker! www.nutcracker.com

For tickets and more info click here. 

Turkey Scramble – Ozark MO

November 22nd 8:30am

5k or 10k run/walk on Thanksgiving morning at The OC in Ozark MO. Start time is 8:30am.

For more info click here. 

24th Annual Turkey Trot – Springfield MO

November 22nd 8:00am

Turkey Trot is Springfield’s largest timed 5K run/walk of the year and the largest Thanksgiving Day 5K in Missouri, with over 8,000 participants in 2017. The 24th Annual Turkey Trot 5K Walk/Run is held rain, snow or shine on Thursday, Nov. 22, 8 a.m., at the Springfield Expo Center, 635 E. St. Louis St., in downtown Springfield. Pre-registration required. Proceeds benefit the Developmental Center of the Ozarks and the Springfield-Greene County Park Board Youth Recreation Scholarship Fund.

For more info click here. 

Juanita K. Hammons Hall Presents: Lindsey Stirling – The Wanderland tour

November 30th

Lindsey Stirling remains fearless enough to always dream big.  In the over five years since the release of her 2012 self-titled debut, the electronic music impresario, violinist, dancer and artist quietly and humbly became one of the 21st century’s most innovative stars by clinging to her groundbreaking vision of cinematic violin-driven electronic music.

After bowing at #2 on the Billboard Top 200 and #1 on the Dance/Electronic Album Chart, holding #1 on the Classical Album Chart for 21 consecutive weeks, and receiving a Billboard Music Award to “Top Dance/Electronic Album”, her sophomore opus Shatter Me would not only garner an RIAA Gold certification, but it would rank as the #2 Dance/Electronic Album and #1 Classical Album on Billboard’s 2015 Year-End charts.

Attracting over 10 million subscribers and 2 billion-plus views on YouTube, in 2015 Forbes placed Lindsey at #4 on its yearly YouTube artists list, making her the highest-ranked female. Her headline tours would play to a cumulative audience of over 500.000 people worldwide, and her literary debut The Only Pirate at the Party – co-written with her sister Brook S. Passey – became a New York Times Bestseller. Lindsey’s third studio album, Brave Enough, debuted at #5 on Billboard’s Top 200 Album chart, went on to score the #1 spot on Billboard’syear-end Top Dance/Electronic Album list, and earned her a 2017 Billboard Music Award for “Top Dance/Electronic Album”.

Last year, Lindsey released her first ever holiday album titled Warmer in the Winter.  Featuring classic and original songs, the album went on to become the #1 new Christmas album of 2017, ahead of pop music heavyweights such as Gwen Stafani and Sia.  It was also the best-selling new holiday album and the best-performing holiday album on Pandora, with over 40 million spins.  Lindsey is re-releasing her top-selling Christmas album this year with a few new songs as well as some Christmas classics.

Lindsey was also the runner-up on Season 25 of ABC’s hit show Dancing with the Stars with her partner Mark Ballas.  She is currently co-heading a US tour with rock band Evanescence, and it is one of Live Nation’s 10 best-selling amphitheater tours of the summer.

Lindsey Stirling is the model of a modern independent recording artist, wit a symbiotic relationship with her fans.  A motivational speaker in her spare time, she uses her own story to show teenagers that you’ve got to have confidence in the very thing that makes you unique – then wait for the world to catch up.

For tickets and more info click here.