Oregon Family Magazine

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How do manufactured homes stack up against traditionally constructed houses in terms of energy efficiency and overall environmental footprint?

— JEN JACKSON, VIA EMAIL

AsONE MIGHT EXPECT, MANUFACTURED

homes run the gamut with regard to energy efficiency. In an analysis completed by the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE), it was found that modern manufactured homes used 70.4 MM btu/ year, a significant amount less than the 108.5 MM btu/year average seen in traditional, or “site-built” homes.

In addition, the actual manufacture of manufactured homes produces much less waste, as does the on-site setup. According to the Manufactured Housing Association of British Columbia, the construction and set-up of manufactured homes creates 50 to 70 percent less waste than traditional home-building.

Traditional home-building also requires that the materials, tools and workers all be sent to different sites throughout the year. This approach is far less organized and efficient than the streamlined factory process associated with manufactured homes. As a result, all kinds of

emissions are produced. In an in-depth report commissioned by the Sturgeon Foundation of Alberta, Canada, carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions of both modular and on-site building projects were compared. It was

with far less regard for energy efficiency. By June of that year, the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD) devised and implemented the HUD Code, setting a higher standard in quality, safety and

Manufactured homes can be greener than traditional houses if they are designed and built that way — but this may be the exception.

determined that the on-site construction process produced a whopping 43 percent more CO2 emissions!

According to ACEEE, those who lived in a manufactured home before 1976 “spent more money on their energy bills than on home loans” and spent double on energy per square foot than those who occupied a traditional home. How is this possible? Before 1976, manufactured homes were built more quickly, for less money and

efficiency of product.

Today, manufactured homes must have sufficient levels of insulation (this includes around ductwork, electrical outlets, lighting, etc.), modern water heaters and energy-efficient appliances. If the manufactured home does not meet the minimum standards set out by HUD, then it is illegal for it to be sold, leased or rented to anybody.

That being said, if you happen to own a manufactured home

that was purchased before 1976, there are still many ways that you can upgrade your pad-fromthe-past to meet the energy demands of the modern age. Passive solar design is one such avenue, whereby manufactured home-owners orient and design their home space to maximize the amount of sun exposure. This will not only power any solar panels that may have been installed more efficiently, it will also provide both natural light and heat.

Using a solar water heater is another great way to reduce one’s energy expenditures. Though roof-mounted options may be limited (as manufactured homes are less sturdy), the ground-based options are definitely a good choice for anyone with a manufactured home that isn’t moved often.

CONTACTS: Comparison of Carbon Emissions of Modular and Site Built Houses, researchgate.net/publication/360173050_ Comparison_of_Carbon_Emissions_of_ Modular_and_Site_Built_Houses; Mobilizing Energy Efficiency in the Manufactured Housing Sector, aceee.org/sites/default/ files/publications/researchreports/a124.pdf

EarthTalk® is produced by Roddy Scheer & Doug Moss for the 501(c)3 nonprofit EarthTalk. See more at https://emagazine. com. To donate, visit https//earthtalk.org. Send questions to: question@earthtalk.org

PHOTO: WES

DICKINSON, FLICKRCC.

Our Contributors

1. KIMBERLY BLAKER

Kimberly Blaker is a freelance writer. She also owns an online bookshop, Sage Rare & Collectible Books, specializing in out-of-print, scarce, signed, and first editions; fine bindings; ephemera and more at sagerarebooks.com

2. RICK EPSTEIN

A Dad’s Eye View contributor, also awardwinning columnist, and journalist. Author of Rookie Dad (Hyperion) and The Right Number of Kids (McKenna Publishing Group). His wife and three daughters run a living laboratory in which he is constantly tested, analyzed, and experimented upon. It’s as if a guinea pig could write.

3. BONNIE HARRIS

Bonnie is Oregon Family Magazine’s resident Movie Review Master Extraordinaire. She enjoys watching movies of all kinds, and has been doing movie reviews for over 9 years and counting. She lives in Eugene with her family, enjoys gardening and cooking.

Daniel Hiestand is Waste Wise Lane County’s Outreach Coordinator, promoting waste reduction and sustainability throughout the county. He recently graduated from Arizona State University with a Master’s in Sustainability Leadership.

5. SARAH LYONS

Sarah Lyons is a writer and proud mom of six, including six year old triplets. In her limited free time, she enjoys reading, writing, cooking, and spending time outside.

6. RODDY SCHEER

Journalist and photographer specializing in environmental issues, the outdoors and travel. When he is not out in the field taking pictures, Roddy runs EarthTalk, the non-profit Publisher of the syndicated EarthTalk Q&A column and the EarthTalk.org and Emagazine.

Oregon Family Magazine is distributed monthly in the greater Lane County area at over 150 high-traffic commercial locations.

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4. DANIEL HIESTAND

Sweet Dreams

AFTER GROWING

UP WITH the original 1971 Willy Wonka and the Chocolate Factory movie, starring the unforgettable Gene Wilder, I’ve been very skeptical of revisions or sequels. But the prequel called Wonka, directed by Paul King, is a pleasant, toetapping surprise that tips its hat to the beloved film and shares

BY BONNIE L. HARRIS WONKA

Warner Bros Pictures

Rated: PG

Streaming on Amazon & Hulu

how the magical Mr. Wonka got his start. Visually creative and wildly colorful, the set design and costumes build a fantastical world where chocolate is as valuable as gold, and the upstart Willy Wonka must outsmart a greedy chocolate cartel. And I was very happy to hear the musical score, while innovative and original, also pays homage to its predecessor by keeping renditions of the most memorable songs. And there are new characters to love such as Noodle, an orphan who becomes Willy Wonka’s loyal ally, and Abacus Crunch, who helps

Wonka unravel the chocolate cartel’s deepest secret. Not to mention an Oompa-Loompa named Lofty, who regularly steals Willy Wonka’s delicious creations. But there are also characters to dislike such as the formidable Mrs. Scrubitt, who tricks the unwary into servitude in her washhouse, and the corrupt Chief of Police, who gets paid by the pound in chocolate. Together, they help and hinder Wonka’s dream of opening his own chocolate shop featuring his unconventional confections. There are moments of mayhem

FOR the PARENTS

Burning Betrayal

DAMSEL

Productions, Rated: PG-13

Streaming on Netflix

DESCRIBED AS A dark fantasy, the new Netflix movie, Damsel, isn’t for the faint of heart nor is it a happy fairy tale movie. Instead, it’s the twisted story of a beautiful young princess with a tender heart who battles a vengeful dragon and manages to escape with her life. Forced to defend herself after being betrayed, Elodie, our heroine, finds herself lost and injured in a dragon’s labyrinth and soon discovers that she’s one of generations of women sacrificed to atone for an age-old wrongdoing. How she stays one step ahead of the dragon, unravels the mystery, then finally turns the tables, is a thrilling, edge of your seat odyssey that keeps you guessing. Even when her younger sister is later victimized, Elodie never loses her moral compass or her compassion. And for those reasons, the third act is wonderfully satisfying as Elodie returns as if from the dead to exact justice. The only real flaw in the film is the

Loving sisters say good-bye.

outrunning the police, poisoned betrayals, and thrilling threats of drowning in gallons of chocolate, but Wonka’s optimism and faith eventually conquer the cartel and the public. Then when a chocolate shop isn’t quite enough, Wonka’s new dream is to open a grand chocolate factory where I’m sure the next film will begin. I’m looking forward to knowing if Slugworth & Fickelgruber get out of jail, how the Oompa-Loompas come to work for Wonka, and if Noodle uses her inheritance wisely. ✦

long lead time getting to the action, which makes the first half seem a bit slow and overly concerned with costumes, weddings, and royal protocol. But once the fire-breathing starts, it’s no holds barred to survive and escape.

The master chocolatier.

How to Paint the Exterior of Your House

FROM PREP TO FINISH

BY KIMBERLY BLAKER

DOES YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR need a facelift? If so, it doesn’t have to cost an arm and a leg. A bit of time and effort in prep work and a fresh coat of paint can restore your home’s curb appeal and make it look new once again. With the right tools and resources, you can paint your home yourself and save a bundle on the cost of labor. The following guide will help get you started.

HOW TO CHOOSE COLORS

There are several considerations to choosing the right colors for your home. Your street or neighborhood will be affected by the color you choose. So take into account the colors of other homes on your street and immediately surrounding yours.

The architectural style of your house and its era also play a role in color selection. Is your house contemporary? Or is it a mid-century or turn-of-the-twentieth century craftsman home? To determine the best colors for the era and style of your house, browse through books or online to see what’s appropriate and appealing.

Are there any exterior elements that’ll be difficult, costly, or unnecessary to change, such as the roof or driveway? If so, choose paint colors complementary to those existing elements.

Another consideration is visual effects. Determine whether your house would look better in a lighter or darker shade based on its distance from the road, the landscape, and other factors.

Use color and visual tools to choose colors that are complementary to each other for the primary color of your home; window trim, shutters, and doors; and the trim casing, roof casing, and railings. Many paint brands offer online color visualizers where you can upload a photo of your house to try out different paint colors and combinations virtually. One option is www.sherwin-williams.com/ visualizer#/active

Once you’ve decided on colors, buy a sample of each, and try it out on a small area of your house to avoid a costly mistake. Paint color sample cards and even online visualizers don’t tell the full story. You need to see the actual paint color on your real-life home to know how it will really look.

PAINT TYPES

The best all-around paints are those that say “100 percent acrylic latex” on the label, says Thomas Baker of This Old House in “All About Exterior Paint.” He explains that one hundred percent acrylic resin “remains flexible, breathable, and colorfast far longer than paints made with vinyl resins or acrylic blends.” Still, even among 100 percent acrylics, quality varies. So it’s worth comparing coverage rates, dryfilm thicknesses, and proportion of ingredients.

For certain surfaces, however, oil-based paints are better because of their smoothness, hardness, gloss, and resistance to dirt. Doors, trim, railings, wrought iron, and elements that get touched hold up better with oil based.

PREP WORK

Before you begin painting, you’ll need to inspect the exterior of your house, make repairs, and prep the surface. Look for and resolve the following issues:

• flaking paint (remove by scraping, sanding, or with a wire brush)

• rust on iron details (scrub with a wire brush then apply a rustinhibitive primer)

• chalky residue (efflorescence) on aluminum siding, trim, and soffit (lightly power wash siding, scrub it with a cleaning agent and brushes or pads, then rinse thoroughly)

• mold and mildew (clean light mold with bleach; replace extensively damaged elements)

• deteriorated or missing caulk in window sills and doors (remove deteriorated caulk and apply fresh high quality, paintable exterior caulk)

• rotted wood (remove or cut it out and replace)

After you’ve completed your inspection, and have cleaned or repaired any problems, wash the exterior to remove dust and debris. You can use a hose, bucket, and rags, or rent a power washer, available through most home improvement stores.

Next, fill any cracks and crevices between siding and trim panels with an exterior, paintable caulk. This will give your house a professional, cohesive appearance after you’ve painted.

Choose a primer with a vinyl sealer, so both the sealer and paint adhere better. If you’re adding a fresh coat of the same color paint, a sealer isn’t necessary.

Also, gather your paint and the tools you’ll need, including sturdy ladders, sprayers, brushes, rollers, drop cloths, plastic sheeting, and painter’s tape.

Finally, just before priming or painting, tape off edges including trim, windows, doors, and hardware to protect them from paint. Even with tape, paint does tend to bleed through. So run a putty knife along the edge of the tape, to ensure it is flush and adheres. If you’re using a paint sprayer, also tape up plastic sheeting to cover doors, windows, fixtures, and anything you want to protect.

HOW TO PAINT

Paint sprayers offer the most coverage in the shortest amount of time. Brushes and rollers are better for precision and control. Begin by applying the primer, which can be sprayed, rolled, or brushed on. Make sure it covers rusty nails, sap, or other similar problems to prevent bleed-through.

After waiting for the recommended time for the primer to dry, you’re ready to apply color. You can spray the siding then roll or brush the trim and doors. Another option is to spray large areas that require minimal taping off and use brushes and rollers on the front of the house and in other areas where there’s a lot of detail. Alternatively, you may decide not to deal with spraying at all.

Just carefully follow the instructions on the paint cans to ensure the paint properly adheres and provides lasting coverage.

WHERE TO LEARN ABOUT HOUSE PAINTING

Before you begin painting, learn as much as you can to avoid mistakes and discover time-saving tips. The following resources may be helpful:

• Check home improvement stores to see if they offer any workshops. These are often provided in larger stores.

• Visit your library, bookstore, or hardware store for a book on exterior painting.

• Look for articles online, particularly those that address the specific type of siding on your home.

• Watch YouTube videos to see house painting in action, so you understand how to properly tape off, use a paint sprayer, and other steps. ✦

PERMANENT YEAR-ROUND LIGHTING

QWhat Exactly Is Permanent YearRound Lighting?

AWith unlimited color and animation options, our programmable system gives customers control and versatility to set their lights for every holiday, sporting event, or special occasion throughout the year. Trimlight provides bright, beautiful holiday and year round lighting at night, and hardly noticeable during the day, so the system can be left up all year!

Sierra Trimlight

971-600-7482

sierratrimlight.com

See ad on page 13.

RESIDENTIAL & COMMERCIAL GARAGE DOORS

QIs there a way to see what a new garage door would look like on my home?

A

Yes!! Our mobile Doorview Garage Door Designer App is available for i-Pad and Android Tablets, on Apple App Store & Google Play. The visualizer tool is built for the most common garage door sizes, and can show you many different styles and colors on your home!

https://www.overheaddoor.com/garage-door-designer

Overhead Door Co. of Eugene-Springfield™

Years in Business: 99

541-686-8144

• www.overheaddoor-eugene.com

See ad on page 15.

Hiring a professional saves you time and ensures quality results. Experts bring the knowledge, experience, and specialization to transform your project visions into reality.

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING

QI’ve heard a lot about heat pumps lately. Are there any rebates, tax credits, and financing options to get a new heat pump?

AYES! There are tax credits, cashincentives and rebates now for qualifying heat pumps (ducted and ductless), heat pump water heaters, and home insulation. A heat pump efficiently heats and cools your home and proper insulation helps minimize heat loss or gain for energy efficiency. It’s a great time to replace, upgrade or add any of these options.

Marshalls, Inc.

541-747-7445

• https://marshallsinc.com/

See ad on page 15.

Paul Burrell

Sal Najar

Gone Viral

‘Miniclover’ is a top trending grass alternative for yards across America

BY JOAN CASANOVA

IfYOU’RE LOOKING TO RENOVATE your yard, there’s a sustainable, droughttolerant alternative to high-maintenance, water-guzzling grass that also reduces your environmental footprint.

“Clover lawns” went viral on social media last fall and became the most searched home improvement trend on Google in 2023. If you search #cloverlawns on Tik Tok, viewed more

than 150 million times, you’ll be bombarded with photos and videos of fluffy, lush, green, gorgeous lawns grown with Miniclover seeds.

“‘Miniclover’ (Trifolium repens) is about 1/3-1/2 the size of white Dutch clover, only grows 4-6 inches and produces a thick, carpet-like look that blends well with turf,” said Troy Hake, president and owner of Outsidepride.com, offering drought-tolerant grasses, clovers, wildflower seeds and more. “It’s less expensive than grass seed and a natural solution for self-sustaining, low-maintenance lawns that look beautiful and help eliminate the need for fertilizers, herbicides, pesticides and weekly mowing. We sold out of it for the past two years, even with a two-fold increase in production. You can’t go wrong with it.”

Wondering why grass gets a bad rap? The truth is climate change is looming and has further altered the natural pattern of droughts, making them more frequent, longer and more severe. Grass lawns, however, are not sustainable; they’re the most maintenanceintense part of yards, requiring regular

fertilization, mowing and heavy irrigation to look good. Nationwide, landscape irrigation is estimated at almost 1/3 of all residential water use, totaling nearly 9 billion gallons per day. Plus, gas-powered lawn and gardening equipment release more than 30 million tons of carbon emissions, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s National Emissions Inventory.

In some regions, there’s continuous, strict regulations on watering lawns or bans on the use of drinking water for irrigating grass. As concerns about climate change and water scarcity intensify, some homeowners are looking for landscaping solutions that minimize water usage and reduce environmental impact. A standout in this regard, Miniclover requires significantly less water than traditional grass to thrive. It’s drought-tolerant and has longer, deeper roots than grass, reaching into the soil for needed moisture, requiring minimal watering, staying greener longer and showing more resiliency during periods of drought or water restrictions.

It takes nitrogen from the air, “fixing” it in the soil and eliminating the need for fertilizer or nitrogen plant food because it does the work for you, keeping grass green and growing while adding natural nitrogen to surrounding soil.

Some homeowners are already tearing up grass and completely replacing it with Miniclover; others are overseeding existing grass, reaping the many benefits of clover while maintaining a lawn-like look without committing to a complete lawn replacement. Both options are more sustainable and environmentally friendly than grass lawns.

With hectic lifestyles the norm, many homeowners want landscaping solutions that require minimal upkeep. While grass lawns require constant mowing, watering and fertilizing, perhaps it’s time to grow something other than traditional turf. Miniclover’s slow growth habits mean less time behind the mower while its dense growth pattern, evenly dispersed via stolons (stems that grow horizontally along the ground), crowds out weeds and controls erosion.

No need for herbicides; they’ll kill it. Grubs won’t eat it and bugs won’t lay eggs in it. It stands up to compacted soil, plus it’s immune to “dog patches.” It fills in bare spots fast and tolerates wet conditions. Mow as little as you like – the more it’s cut, the smaller the leaf size – or simply let it grow close to the ground, like grass. It blooms only once in summer with small, delicate flowers, which provide bees with nectar or, if preferred, mowing prevents blooming. It withstands foot traffic, making it ideal for pathways and play areas and its tolerance for shade makes it suitable for areas with limited sunlight.

For homeowners looking to reclaim weekends and minimize time and effort spent on lawn care, Miniclover seems like a dream. It lives up to its hype, offering the winning combination of environmental sustainability, very low maintenance, drought tolerance, aesthetic appeal and cost efficiency that benefits not only homeowners’ properties, but planet Earth as well. ✦

For more drought-tolerant options, visit Outsidepride.com

Caring for a Feathered Flock

3 TIPS FOR RAISING CHICKENS AS PETS

AnANTIDOTE TO THE

STRESSES of work and the fast pace of modern life may be closer than you realize. Whether on family farms or in urban backyards, chickens have the power to make your corner of the planet better.

Not only does raising chickens provide you with access to eggs for a tasty, nutritious and versatile food source, it also allows your family to be more self-sufficient, reduce your food miles and establish a family hobby that allows you to connect with one another.

“Chickens make wonderful companions and are often an overlooked option when a family is seeking the countless social, cognitive, physical and emotional benefits of pet ownership,” said Dr. Tanya K. Bailey, a pet therapist and creator of Pet Away Worry & Stress, a program that celebrates the healing connection between humans, animals and nature. “The fact is, many backyard chicken owners view their chickens as lovable household pets that contribute to their family’s sense of well-being.”

Before you bring your own flock home, consider these tips for raising chickens successfully:

FOOD

You may think of chickens as grain-eating vegetarians, but they’re actually omnivores with a diverse diet. Most chickens eat insects, as well as herbs, fruits, vegetables and grains. Experts recommend having enough food available for chickens to graze throughout the day, but a single daily feeding is usually adequate.

A specially designed chicken waterer can help ensure your hens always have a supply of clean water, but some prefer a trough-style waterer instead.

HOUSING

Chickens require room to roam, but they also need protection from predators and the weather. The most common setup for chicken housing involves an enclosed coop and a secure area where they can wander freely. Plan to secure several square feet of space per

chicken to avoid crowding.

The coop you need will depend on many factors, but a versatile option like the Eglu Pro chicken coop is suitable for flocks of varying sizes. It provides housing for up to 10 large hens or 15 bantams with a low-maintenance design and hygienic, comfortable habitat. The coop offers a controllable climate with adjustable vents and double-walled insulation and numerous features to protect chickens from predators, including raccoon-proof locks.

“Over many hours, we watched, learned, asked and then invented an enhanced coop that does justice to the brilliance of the humble chicken, a pet that can bring so much joy to family members of all ages,” said Johannes Paul, co-founder of Omlet. “The ingenuity of the Eglu Pro is that it turns the dream of keeping chickens into a reality for everyone. Created not just for the chicken but because of the chicken, this coop helps those who are looking to slow down, destress and take control of their busy lives or crave the need to build a community around them.”

HEALTH

It’s important to keep a close eye on your chickens’ health and safety. Proper housing and routine cleaning are keys to deter predators and prioritize hygiene to help minimize illnesses. Just like other pets, chickens require sufficient exercise and stimulation to maintain good health, which you can provide with foraging activities.

If you’re considering a new pet, chickens make for a lovable, economical option. Find more advice for raising a feathered flock at omlet.us. ✦

sustainability BRING TO YOUR GARDEN THIS SPRING

BY DANIEL HIESTAND LANE COUNTY WASTE REDUCTION OUTREACH COORDINATOR

WHAT DOES IT MEAN to be a sustainable gardener?

According to Erica Chernoh, assistant professor of Practice in Community and Commercial Horticulture with Oregon State University Extension Service, there is no hard-and-fast definition.

“To me, it means using gardening practices that conserve natural resources, minimize fertilizer and pesticide inputs, or use the least toxic options available, and reduce waste,” said Chernoh, who helps oversee the Lane County Master Gardeners Program.

Sustainability is at the heart of the program, which offers free and low-cost educational resources to help novice and experienced gardeners thrive. Additionally, public workshops are offered throughout the year on topics ranging from soil testing to edible gardening to composting.

“(The workshops are open to) anyone that wants to learn more about gardening,” Chernoh said. “Gardening is a great way to grow some of your own food, get some exercise, and connect with the earth. Master Gardener volunteers are here to help.”

Furthermore, Master Gardener volunteers are available via phone, online, or in-person to answer gardening questions for any community members regarding gardenrelated challenges, including weeds, plant disease, and insect challenges. ✦

About Lane County Master Gardeners: The Oregon State University Extension Master Gardener™ program educates Oregonians about the art and science of growing and caring for plants. The program is in 27 counties across the state, and trains thousands of Master Gardener volunteers. OSU Extension Master Gardeners are volunteer educators, neighbors, and on-the-ground researchers who serve their community with solid training in science-based, sustainable gardening and a love of lifelong learning. Learn more at extension.oregonstate.edu/mg/lane

THE TOP 3 SUSTAINABLE GARDENING TIPS

from Erica Chernoh

1. Build healthy soil by adding organic matter through the use of compost and cover crops.

2. Select the right plant for the right place. Choose plants well-suited to your garden’s climate, soil, and light exposure so the plant can grow well and stay healthy. Select diseaseresistant varieties, when possible, to help reduce the need for fungicides or other pest management methods.

3. Use drip irrigation, soaker hoses, or other irrigation methods that reduce and conserve water use in the garden.

The dangers of lithium batteries

Batteries containing lithium are dangerous and do not go in the garbage!

They can self-ignite and cause fires when the outer casing is damaged or compromised. Lithium batteries in this condition are accepted through our hazardous waste program by appointment.

Trash it or recycle it?

Households can schedule appointments online lanecountyor.gov/hazwaste or call (541) 682-4120.

A Dad’s Eye View A Houseful of Crooked Teeth

BY RICK EPSTEIN

“IS THAT A HUMAN skull?” I asked. The orthodontist was showing me an X-ray.

“Yes,” he said. “In fact, it’s your daughter’s skull. Now look how those front teeth angle slightly forward. When the canines squeeze in, the angle will become increasingly pronounced until her face is stretched out of shape and her bite is out of alignment.”

My 13-year-old daughter Marie frowned at the X-ray.

“Here’s what I want to do,” said Dr. Lewis. “First, I’ll install spacers between those baby canines and the pre-molars. Then I’ll put braces on the front teeth to pull them forward to make room here,” he pointed. “Then we pull out the two remaining baby-teeth, and bingo! the permanent eye-teeth will drop right into place. The whole process ought to take about 18 months and cost $7,000.”

Ooof! I suddenly “got” all those jokes about orthodontal expense I’d been hearing all my life. And they weren’t funny. Especially frustrating is the fact that Marie and I are the only ones in the family whose teeth look straight.

Sally, age 10, has a crammed mouthful that looks like a springtime ice-jam in the Yukon. There is crowding and jostling going on in her mouth that makes a British soccer

riot look like synchronized swimming. We’ve been bringing Sally to see Dr. Lewis for years, but he always looks her over and says, “Not yet.” His eyes sparkle when he says it, and who can blame him? He’s looking forward to the challenge of his career, followed by a cruise to Hawaii.

Wendy, age 6, is missing half her teeth, and for the past year has been constantly nursing one loose tooth after another. She loves the attention she can get and is constantly showing her loosest tooth to anyone who’ll look.

My wife, Betsy, is famous in our neighborhood for her jolly eagerness to yank a loose tooth out of the head of any child who’s at least half-willing. (It’s weird, I know. And probably illegal.) So when showing a loose tooth to her mom, Wendy knows she is flirting with danger. She

horrified by the idea.

“Look at this!” she’ll say to Betsy, opening wide and moving a tiny tooth with her finger.

“Ooh! Let me wiggle it!” says Betsy, her sporting instincts aroused.

“No! You’ll pull it out!” accuses Wendy.

“No I won’t,” says Betsy, who might.

“You can wiggle it, but only with one finger,” says Wendy. (One time, her trust at low ebb, she duct-taped Betsy’s hand into a fist, leaving only the index finger free.)

“Ooh, let me yank it!” Betsy will say, as she prods the tooth.

Wendy pulls her head back and her jaws snap shut like a mouse trap. “No!” she says and runs away. One night, after a long day of toothplay, Betsy sneaked up on Wendy, who was peacefully drooling on her pillow, and harvested a tooth. But Betsy knew she’d done an unsportsmanlike thing, so after that the contest has been reserved for Wendy’s waking hours. Neither one of them can leave a loose tooth alone, so this strange little game goes on and

Meanwhile, Wendy’s mouth is in chaos. There are empty spaces, isolated pointy babyteeth, and huge ivory slabs rising out of her gums like crooked monoliths.

When she bites a sandwich, it looks like it’s been savaged by sharks. It’s impossible to

guess how her teeth will end up, but I’m expecting the worst.

Nowadays I see a kid’s head as one of those dice cups you use in Parcheesi. It gets a good shake, the teeth come down into place, and the random result makes you a winner or a loser.

To Dr. Lewis, the engineer, a kid’s head is like a log-jam, full of creaking, groaning tensions that only he and lumberjacks understand. He sees things in a time-lapse way as he drags teeth here and there with wires. The teeth shift, strain and finally come around. Someday an incisor will snap into place too soon and pin his hand inside a mouth until help arrives.

You may wonder how a straight-toothed guy like myself got into this fix? My heart led me astray. When I first met my wife, I noticed that her front teeth were a little crooked. It was a cute effect. Blinded by that cuteness and her other charms, I just never thought things through. I’m not saying I should’ve done things differently and that the past 20 years haven’t been one long, sweet song, but it DOES seem ironic that the smile that set my heart to beating, would someday give me a series of financial beatings.

Back in the car, Marie said soberly, “Gee Dad, that’s an awful lot of money.”

“Don’t worry about it,” I said, “Dr. Lewis just talked himself out of a job. Now that we know his plan, all we have to do is tell it to Mom and buy some wire!”✦

Rick can be reached at rickepstein@yahoo.com.

Taking Control

OF CAR MAINTENANCE

BY FAMILY FEATURES

ECONOMIC FACTORS

MADE 2023 a record year for motorists, but not in ways that helped most families’ household budgets.

The average price of a new car peaked at nearly $50,000 while the average age of cars on the road surpassed 12 years, a record, according to S&P.

Rising costs for new cars and an aging fleet of vehicles on the road go hand-in-hand and, for most drivers, this means staying on top of vehicle maintenance is crucial. Yet even maintenance has become more difficult as the cost of parts and labor increase, leaving drivers with a sometimes daunting list of automotive DIY projects or parts to source when their mechanic is out of stock.

COMMON FEARS ABOUT AUTOMOTIVE DIY

For people new to car maintenance and repair, getting started can feel overwhelming. Because many families count on their cars to get where they need to go, it seems like a lot could go wrong with an average of 30,000 parts under the hood of a gasoline-powered vehicle.

Consider these common situations that could make someone hesitant to take on a DIY project:

• Finding the best place to get parts to fit your needs

• Being unsure if a part is high enough quality to last and keep your car on the road

• Not knowing if the part you ordered will fit your car

For most, these fears boil down to being unsure if a part is right for the job, or if they’re skilled enough to install it.

TIPS TO GET THE REPAIR DONE RIGHT

Now, more automotive parts and accessories retailers offer tools to help guide DIYers toward the right inventory for their needs. From brick-and-mortar shops to online marketplaces like eBay Motors, they can enjoy access to more resources to help find the exact part and good value.

Consider shopping online. While physical retailers may have parts that work in a pinch, they may not be the best part for a project or offer the best value. Searching online retailers

can provide access to millions of parts and accessories – including hard-to-find and discontinued items – from trusted car manufacturers and reliable aftermarket part brands.

Look for fitment guarantees. There are few things more frustrating than being halfway through a repair only to learn a part doesn’t fit. To help ensure you’re buying with confidence, the eBay Guaranteed Fit program allows users to add a vehicle to “My Garage” then quickly and easily search for parts. If there’s a green “Fits” check, you can rest assured it’s guaranteed to fit or your money back.

Take advantage of services and educational tools. Some online parts destinations offer features on-site or via app that connect you with licensed mechanics live if you’re unsure of how to approach a repair or maintenance, from something simple like a filter change to help with more advanced jobs, like replacing spark plugs. When it comes to sourcing and installing parts like tires, look for marketplaces that offer a wide selection of top brands and services that ship your order straight to your local shop for convenient installation.

With the right resources, car projects can feel more manageable. To get started, visit eBayMotors.com to find how-to resources, parts and accessories to tackle some DIY projects, including filters, wiper blades, spark plugs, batteries, light bulbs and more. ✦

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Life Lessons Learned at Camp

BY SARAH LYONS

SUMMER IS JUST AROUND the corner

and it’s time to start registering kids for camp. Whether you choose to send your child to day camp or an overnight camp, you can be sure it will be a fun and memorable experience for your child. Camp can help your child step out of their comfort zone, experience something new, learn or develop new skills, and spend time outside (and off of screens) this summer. Many parents and kids will tell you they learned valuable life lessons while at summer camp.

INDEPENDENCE

“I love summer camp because it teaches them independence.” said Jayne Holmes, mom of four. Away from parents, whether it’s for hours or days, kids are expected to be responsible for themselves which includes everything from keeping track of

their belongings to remembering to shower. With counselors and peers alongside to guide and encourage them, they learn to be independent in a way that is different from any other setting.

DIVERSITY

When kids attend camp they are exposed to a variety of people with different backgrounds, abilities, gifts and challenges. Camp forces kids to step out of their inner circle and meet kids they would not have come in contact with otherwise. This helps kids understand the world outside of their neighborhood and prepares them for high school and college where the school population is larger. Kids begin to understand that despite differences, people with all different backgrounds can have similar interests and values. It also helps build empathy, understanding, and teaches them how to be a good friend to others.

CONFIDENCE

Camp doesn’t just expose kids to diversity when it comes to people but it also gives kids the opportunity to try something new. Being introduced to new activities and interests at camp can give kids the confidence they need to step out of their comfort zone and try new things in the future. Amy Cameron, mom of three says, “They have come home with a new sense of grit and responsibility as well as new interests such as astronomy, horseback riding, and canoeing. They’ve also developed a love for the outdoors and found that technology isn’t always necessary for entertainment.”

RELATIONSHIPS

Relationships are the most important thing in life. At camp, kids develop deep relationships quickly because of the teamwork, camaraderie, and quality time that camp provides. These relationships are often valuable and long lasting. As kids grow and natural distance grows between their camp friends, the memories are always there and the value and ability to build strong friendships remains a lifelong skill.

“My kids, my husband, his father, and many other family members have all attended the same camp when they were kids and it had a lasting impact on them.” said Cameron. “So much so that we took my father-in-law’s ashes there over the summer. It is where he would want to be.” Kids carry the great memories, valuable life lessons, and the relationships built at camp with them through their lives. ✦

Meet 3-year-old Alaskan Husky mix, VIOLET ! She is an extremely sweet, friendly and affectionate gal who would be a loyal pet to her new family. She loves the best of both worlds – being outside and playing but then heading inside for her couch cuddle time. She would make an excellent walking or jogging pal and then enjoy some snuggles for naps. She is very smart and knows her basic commands. She would love to continue positive reinforcement training and showing off her obedience. We adore her dashing white and black coat and striking features on her face.

Violet should meet any dogs in the home prior to adoption. She is a large girl and may be too much energy for little kiddos but based on her sweet demeanor, we suspect she would quickly become best friends with any children. She weighs 39 lbs., is spayed, microchipped, up to date on vaccines and ready to go home!

Greenhill Humane Society is open seven days a week, 11 am – 6 pm at 88530 Green Hill Rd in Eugene. For more information call (541) 689.1503 or visit www.green-hill.org.

The Cat Rescue & Adoption Network presents CASHEW (bottom) and LIL BIT (top) are a pair of cuddle-buddy male kitties about 6 years old. Lil Bit is a fluffy dark gray and white tuxedo, and Cashew is a fluffy orange and white tuxedo. They are smart, affectionate and playful, and enjoy being brushed. This pair came to our cat rescue group when their owner went into assisted living. They’re both shy and take a few weeks to get comfortable, but once acclimated they are confident and friendly lap kitties who will do best as the only pets. They have been neutered, vaccinated, microchipped, and is negative for FIV & FeLV. To meet them, please call 541-225-4955 option 1, or visit our website at CatRescues.org for more info.

Peanut Butter Perfection

FROM CULINARY.NET

IF YOU’VE EVER TAKEN a bite of something and the only word that came to mind was “yum,” you know what it’s like to experience this dessert.

FLUFFY PEANUT BUTTER PIE

SERVINGS: 6-8

INGREDIENTS

• 20 chocolate cream-filled cookies

• 1/4 cup butter, melted

• 1 package (8 ounces) cream cheese, softened

• 1 cup smooth peanut butter

• 1 can (14 ounces) sweetened condensed milk

• 3 tablespoons lemon juice

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 cup whipping cream

• chocolate syrup

PREPARATION

1. Remove cream filling from chocolate cookies; set aside. With rolling pin, finely crush chocolate cookies.

2. In medium bowl, combine finely crushed cookies with melted butter.

3. Press crumb mixture firmly into bottom and sides of 9-inch pie plate; chill while preparing filling.

4. In large bowl, beat cream cheese until fluffy. Add reserved cookie cream filling, peanut butter and sweetened condensed milk; beat until smooth. Stir in lemon juice and vanilla extract.

5. In medium bowl, beat whipping cream until stiff peaks form. Fold whipped cream into peanut butter mixture. Mix until combined.

6. Pour into crust. Chill 4 hours, or until set. Drizzle chocolate syrup over pie before serving.

7. Store in refrigerator. More recipes at Culinary.net