April 2012 - South Jersey MOM Magazine

April

2012

KIDS CAN’T COMMUNICATE? Don’t Blame it on Technology

ECO-FRIENDLY SOLUTIONS for your family

organizing the DISORGANIZED child

Table of Contents

Dear Readers,

pg. 12 EcoFriendly Solutions for Your Family

letter from the editor

April 2012

mom 2 mom 6 8 Shopping Tips for Dining at Home in a Dine-Out World 8 Organizing a Disorganized Student 10 Celebrate Earth Day’s 42nd Anniversary

moms R women 2 16 8 Ways Stressed Out Moms Can Revive 18 Tackling Multiple Sclerosis with a “Can Do” Attitude

features 20 Capturing a Moment In Time for Your Children 32 Summer Camp Guide

know 2 grow 24 The High-Tech Tongue-Tied Tween 25 Fighting the Fight of a Lifetime 27 Cloth Diapers You Say?

also in this issue 3 14 23 28 30 37 38

editor’s note business spotlight: english septic recipe corner just born making a difference things 2 do resource guide

www.southjerseymom.com

S

pring is upon us and I’m so excited for this next season. Not just for the nicer weather, but for the new “season” in my life. So much has changed in the last 15 months! And more changes are a’ comin’! But change can be hard…often because we are afraid of the unknown. We get comfortable and want things to stay that way.

But this season for sure will bring positive change for my family. My kids are now home; I am home schooling them both. Funny thing is, we are learning just as much about being a family, as we are academia. Sometimes, the life lessons you learn about working through conflict, forgiveness and putting others first is more valuable than any lesson in a textbook.

I have a stronger bond with my children than I did when they were gone all day at school. We do everything together and are growing closer. I’m actually getting to know my children. I’m learning how much I DIDN’T know about them too! I had no idea home schooling would have such a positive impact

on our entire family. And, since my husband is still home recovering from his surgeries, we all get to do this together – building our relationships and learning some very important lessons.

As I said, more changes are coming… and I don’t know my future yet, but I do know that whatever happens, my family will be doing it together! If you are a home schooling mom, or are even considering it, visit my new blog, fromseeds2sprouts.blogspot.com, where I will be chronicling my adventure!

Even if you don’t home school, I urge you to use this new “season” to get in the routine of spending extra time with your family, growing and learning about each other, and strengthening your bond!.✲ Your Friend and Fellow MOM,

“ Like” South Jersey MOM magazine on Facebook and find out about local events, win prizes and connect with other moms in the area! www.facebook.com/SouthJerseyMOM

April 2012 | 3

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South Jersey April

MOM 2012

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April 2012 | 5

mom 2 mom

8 Shopping Tips

for Dining at Home in a Dine-Out World

R

emember all those tips saying you should cook rather than eat out? Well the USDA says we might just be wrong about that in the near future. A recent study by the government agency estimated the price gap between eating at home and dining out will narrow even further in 2012. Grocery prices are expected to rise 3 to 4 percent, while menu prices will likely go up 2 to 3 percent.

That does not mean you have to resort to the McDonald’s Dollar Menu, however. It’s still cheaper to eat at home, but amateur chefs will have to cut even more corners this year. Here are a few tips on dining at home frugally in a dine-out world.

1

2 3 4 5 6

By Andrea Woroch

Shop on Tuesdays Wednesdays are the heaviest shopping day for supermarkets as that’s when they publish their weekly newspaper ads.

(Manufacturer ads are usually distributed with the Sunday paper.) That means grocery stores are interested in ditching last week’s produce and meats on Tuesday night. Talk to the butcher and produce clerks about slapping a better price on those products they’re about to toss.

Use Mobile Coupons Shopping on Tuesday means you can’t take advantage of Wednesday coupons. Happily, you can access mobile coupons right there in the store from the Coupon Sherpa app. This fab app allows you to search for your favorite local store, access desirable coupons, then download them to your store loyalty card.

Plan Your Meals Around Ads If you plan on shopping after newspaper inserts are printed, plan your menu around featured items and build a list before you hit the store. You can use apps like Grocery Gadget (Apple) and Grocery IQ (Android) to create lists based on your supermarket’s layout.

Shop Stores That Double Coupons Not all supermarkets are willing to double-up on coupons, and not all maintain such a policy continuously. The acceptance rate has gone down since the advent of “Extreme Couponers,” so check before you start clipping. This practice is usually limited to specific days and allows you to double the face value of a coupon, up to a certain amount.

Don’t Overbuy Bulk It may be tempting to buy the super-sized box of Cheerios, but you have to consider whether you’ll actually eat all those little oat donuts before they turn into rocks. Buy just enough to last until the next sale.

Limit Produce Purchases Americans throw away roughly one quarter of the food we buy. For a family of four, that figures out to $2,200 a year in food, according to “American Wasteland“ author Jonathan Bloom. Rather than grab fruits and vegetables that look appealing, stick to your list and avoid spoilage. You’re also more likely to use produce if you don’t hide it away in your refrigerator’s bins. Keep it in plain site or make a list of contents that you stick on the fridge drawer as a reminder.

6 | April 2012

7 8

Avoid Temptation Walk in the door and you’re immediately assaulted by the smell of stunning flower arrangements, fresh deli items, and beautifully arranged produce. It’s tempting to fill your cart in this section, so be on your guard. Also beware of the non-food items for sale, including everything from furniture to high-end jewelry.

Don’t Use a Cart Ditch the carry-all cart and carry a basket for quick trips. The less room you have to fill, the less likely you are to make impulse purchases.✲ Andrea Woroch is a consumer and money-saving expert for Kinoli Inc., and has been featured among top news outlets such as Good Morning America, NBC’s Today, MSNBC, New York Times, Kiplinger Personal Finance, CNNMoney and many more.

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1

Understand Their Procrastination. According to Organizing the Disorganized Child, kids often adopt an “I’ll get to it later” habit and put off school projects or studying for several reasons.

Sometimes they simply have a poor concept of time. Sometimes they have poor memory for how procrastinating has failed them in the past.

And sometimes they are simply sidetracked and unable to resist temptation to do something more appealing.

Kutscher and Moran remind parents that most often such issues are “the fault of the undeveloped brain, not the child” and urge parents not to yell or punish. Instead, stay positive, offer support, and help them break larger tasks into chunks. They offer these tips to get organized:

ORganizing 2 a Disorganized student 3 savvy strategies to set up your student for

success

By Michele Ranard, M.ed.

“Hey mom…just so you know, I’ve got a test on Friday I’m gonna fail.” My sixth-grader has barely stepped through the front door when he utters this. He is an excellent student so my head is spinning.

“What do you mean FAIL? You’ve got three more days to study?”

But he is already grinding his perfectly straight teeth, scowling as he announces, “I can’t do it.”

Still calm, I unsuccessfully try to appeal to his reason. Within seconds, I am shouting, “THEN I GUESS YOU’LL BE GROUNDED FOR A MONTH!” Sound familiar?

Disorganization Woes What my son was actually communicating after school that day was “I feel distressed, mom. I have no idea how to get organized for this test.”

Unfortunately, like so many parents, I let myself grow overly emotional and failed to truly hear his fear and concern.

Organizing the Disorganized Child by Martin Kutscher and Marcella Moran provides a helpful guide for explaining in plain English how disorganized habits may interfere with school success and create chaos within the home. The following issues addressed in the book are particularly relevant to helping your child develop healthier habits to achieve more.

8 | April 2012

1. Write down assignments in a planner.

2. Ask the teacher or a buddy to double-check their planner to be sure it’s correct.

3. Place all materials touched that day into a take-home section of a folder.

4. Mark a calendar with completion dates for steps in preparing for a project.

5. Put completed work in a Take to School section of a folder.

6. Weekly purge the backpack and folders of papers no longer needed.

Teach Them to Question Everything. The authors of this guide believe in addition to good note-taking and study skills, the key to your child’s education is questioning everything. Teaching your child to ask the following questions will enhance your child’s learning: 1. What did the teacher just say?

2. What did I just read?

3. Why is that so? Is it true?

4. Where have I seen information like this before?

5. How is this different from material I’ve previously learned?

6. How can I summarize this in as few words as possible?

7. How can I visualize this in pictures or flowcharts?

8. What else do I need to learn about this?

9. What questions about this are likely to be on the test?

10. Why is this important to me and the rest of the world?

11. So what?

3

Test Taking Smarts. All students can use a refresher for how to best manage time on a test, and the following strategies are recommended by Kutscher and Moran: 1. Turn over the sheet and jot down keywords, dates, formulas, and phrases you memorized.

2. Look over the entire test quickly to anticipate what’s coming up.

3. Read directions carefully. Underline keywords of the directions.

4. Answer easy questions first.

5. Place a question mark next to answers you guess on.

6. Sometimes the answer to one question is contained somewhere on the test.

7. Sometimes you may be able to get help or clues from the teacher i.e. “Can you rephrase the question?”

8. If you have leftover time, check your answers and scan for careless mistakes. Only change an answer when you’re certain the new response is correct.

9. If unsure, guess.

The authors remind parents “We can’t completely fix everything overnight. We can, though, expect continued progress over a mountainous terrain toward an ultimately successful future.”✲ Michele Ranard has a husband, two children, and a master’s in counseling. Find her at hellolovelyinc.blogspot.com.

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April 2012 | 9

Celebrate Earth Day’s 42nd Anniversary

By M.B. Sanok

A

pril 22 marks the 42nd anniversary of Earth Day! We still have a lot of work to do though to keep this planet in fighting shape. Celebrate by keeping conservation alive and well with these fun and easy ideas for you and your family. Any little bit helps our planet, so grab a paper towel tube and strike up the band in honor of saving and enjoying our beautiful planet Earth.

FASHION TIPS FROM THE RED…ER, GREEN CARPET

Wear green or brown to celebrate. Take up sewing and repurpose old clothing by turning t-shirts into tote bags or toddler dresses. Patch a pair of ripped jeans with old fabric or chop off the legs for shorts. Use the seat of the pants to make a pretty apron trimmed in lace and ribbons. Or stitch a change purse from a backside jeans pocket. Use mismatched buttons, seashells and puzzle pieces to create funky jewelry, together or separately.

RECYCLE/REUSE/RECREATE?

Recycle trash and empty junk drawers. Instead of throwing away the “junk,” try to make something out of it.

For fun, make instruments for the kids from paper towel rolls, boxes, tape, rubber bands and paperclips. Practice the art of origami using scrap paper. Darn it all and make sock puppets out of old ones. Use old make-up brushes as child-sized paintbrushes – just wash off the residue first!

Make framed collages from used magazines and books.

Use puzzle pieces, seashells or pressed flowers in frames.

10 | April 2012

Decorate a room with record album covers and game boards or dress up a wall with an old map. Save pretty tea canisters for holding jewelry, make-up or other small items. Ask your local coffee chain if they have any empty ones they could spare. Save empty wine bottles to create a sculpture in your backyard with a stand purchased from a gardening catalog.

Need wrapping paper? Use comic strips or an old Mylar balloon. Take pictures and affix them to plain recycled note cards for unique birthday cards. Don’t leave a drink unattended – place a wood floor sample from the hardware store underneath your drink.

DO YOU KNOW WHERE YOUR PRODUCE HAS BEEN?

When purchasing produce, check the numbers on the fruit labels. From the label, you can tell what type of fruit it is and where it grew. Four numbers denote conventionally grown fruit; organic fruit uses five, starting with the number nine; and genetically engineered fruit also uses five, starting with the number eight. (J-Tech Systems.com) Plant your own garden. Use egg cartons to grow herbs.

Entice the kids by cultivating a “pizza garden,” planting most of the ingredients in pizza.

Show kids how to make dirt and where earthworms dwell!

Start composting your fruit and vegetable peels, leaves and scraps, coffee grounds, and even eggshells, to make fertilizer.

Sell your freshly grown produce or donate your wares to a local shelter.

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PARTY LIKE IT’S EARTH DAY

Throw an eco-friendly party, using recycled products and distributing seed packets as party favors. Send invitations online. Host a pizza-making or planting party. For a costume party, wear thrift store finds or dress up like your favorite fruit/vegetable or animal. Reward the most exotic with a silly used knickknack prize.

ONE PERSON’S TRASH IS ANOTHER’S TREASURE

Look for old books, costumes, dress-up clothing, jewelry, toys and more at thrift stores, consignment shops, library book sales, flea markets and yard sales. Initiate a clothing/book/toy swap between friends and neighbors. Go through old toys and donate them to a school or day care center. Host your own yard sale and make “trash” into cash.

CELEBRATE THE GREAT OUTDOORS

Schedule visits to playgrounds and beaches where you can help clean up litter. Patronize zoos, aquariums and nature centers. Organize a scavenger hunt, either snapping pictures of flora and fauna or collecting natural objects.

Build a bird feeder out of milk cartons and learn about bird watching. Plant butterfly bushes to attract them or raise your own and release them into the fresh air. Consider adopting a pet from a shelter or raising poultry, abiding by zoning laws.

COOK UP SOMETHING GOOD!

Start canning your own fruits and vegetables.

Introduce your kids to cooking and baking from scratch. You can make your own seasoning mixes, snack and trail mixes, ice cream, tea and lemonade, even dog treats. Make your own household items like make-up and nontoxic cleansers – kids can help concoct them from edible, safe ingredients. Cook an Earth Day-themed meal, focusing on locally grown

and organic food. Serve a cup of “dirt and earthworms” for dessert.

GAMES PEOPLE PLAY…OUTSIDE!

Host a bike rodeo where friends and neighbors bring their bikes over for games and a safety inspection. Build a maze or obstacle course in your backyard, using boxes and old toys. Set up a mini-golf course or croquet game and invite friends and neighbors. Engage in star gazing or watching thunderstorms for exciting “reality” entertainment.

WASTE NOT; WANT NOT!

Challenge yourself! Only purchase items that can be reused or recycled. Instead of throwing something out, see how it can be reused. For one day, fight the urge to use any electronic devices unless absolutely necessary. Devise a contest between family and friends to see who lasts longest.✲

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12 | April 2012

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Why pay the difference, when you can’t tell the difference? Call (856) 589-7171 or visit www.kidstuffonline.net.

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April 2012 | 13

m

business spotlight

English Septic’s Green Savings

By Makema Douglas

hat is environmentally friendly, green, and passes through most of our hands… but is never enough or received too often? It’s the almighty dollar. In a time when each dollar has to stretch its fibers and last twice as long, the aphorism, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of the cure,” becomes a constant thought. Economists, environmentalists and most families are asking the questions, “How can we save money and what can we do to make what we have last longer?”

Everyday preventive care, management and maintenance are part of the solution.

English Septic Disposal Inc, has taken an aggressive stand in the matter of long term savings and invested their resources in a project called the “Green Initiative.” The wellestablished sewage company has provided superior products and service to the South Jersey region for almost four decades.

In addition to introducing several new eco-friendly products, the green initiative includes a purchase of 285 solar modules.

With solar panels in place, the company can enjoy clean, natural and inexhaustible energy while supporting its new “green philosophy.”

Installation of the solar modules is an estimated equivalent of planting about 250 acres of

W

trees. Marketing Director, Jamie Pepper, believes the company must “practice what they preach” about the health of the community and protecting the environment.

At English Septic, an honest and upfront approach has kept consumers knowledgeable about environmental hazards and prepared to make decisions that will secure their homes and the world. General Manager Joe Garner, says, “Green philosophy assists in helping customers make intelligent decisions about septic systems and home care,” and, Garner adds, “Going green is about longevity, it’s a look into the future.”

A look into the global future has caused them to endorse two major products, the EcoHancer and Groundfos Systems. Both systems are active care tools necessary for home maintenance, pollution reduction and waste management.

The EcoHancer is a product made from peat. Peat has many natural uses. In this case, it works to increase the activity and strength of normal bacteria, allowing the septic system to function more efficiently and inevitably much longer.

Garner explains, “It’s simply a multivitamin for the septic system that assists in bacteria breakage and drain field performance.”

Along with regular pumping, the septic system would require a monthly dose of the product to ensure maximum performance. In the long run, a properly kept septic system protects everyone. On the other hand, a malfunctioning one creates conditions harmful to the environment, humans and pets. Consequently, replacing a septic system can be costly. An investment in products such as the EcoHancer will prove to be worth its value over time.

According to the U.S Geological Survey, the average person utilizes about 80 to 100 gallons of water per day. The most water usage comes from flushing the toilet, followed by baths then showers. A dishwasher

cycle can average about 20 gallons a run while a clothes washer can use about 25 gallons, depending on the efficiency of the machine.

Overall, the average family wastes about 31 gallons of water a day.

The Groundfos Comfort System remedies part of that problem. Imagine having hot water instantaneously. The system pumps hot water through existing piping within the home, minimizing wait times and decreasing wasteful usage of water. Basically, unused hot water is sent back to the hot water heater by way of the cold water lines. Unused water is then forced back into the cold water supply lines. Groundfos is intended to save time and money on the water bill.

Eco-friendly choices do not have to include large budget plans or drastic life changes. A quick online search to find “10 easy ways to go green” will render a large scale of choices. There is something to meet all levels of commitment. Think long term and join Septic English in “green” savings.

English Septic appreciates its customers and works tirelessly to guarantee long term solutions while earning confidence, respect and trust. For further information about their supreme services or green products contact them 24/7 at 1-888-SJ- PUMP1.✲

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April 2012 | 15

moms R womem 2

Eight Ways Stressed Out Women Can Revive and Renew– Mind, Body, and Soul

ou’re a modern woman… which means you are barely surviving. You work yourself to the bone for ever-diminishing returns, thanks to the rising cost of everything from gas to food to health insurance. Meanwhile, you serve as cook, maid, shrink and tutor at home. When life’s little “emergencies” crop up—a broken water heater, a toothache, a parent-teacher conference to discuss your son’s recent homework boycott—well, those land on your plate, too. No wonder you feel you are one permission slip away from a complete breakdown!

Women should not accept this state of stressed-out existence and call it living, insists Vickie Milazzo. “Today’s woman has taken on an extreme life crammed to overflowing with commitments and responsibility,” observes Milazzo, author of the new book Wicked Success Is Inside Every Woman. “It’s not possible to stretch yourself to the breaking point every day and not break.

Read on for eight of Milazzo’s tried-andtrue suggestions to help you renew yourself in the midst of your manic life:

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Plan for renewal. With days, weeks, and months that are packed full of responsibility, you cannot exactly head to the spa, to the nearest mountain for a hike, or to wherever you go to relax and reflect on a moment’s notice. (Heck, you can’t even paint your own toenails in the bathroom without being interrupted!) So if you want to renew your energy, you are going to have to schedule time for relaxation just as systematically as you would plan to complete a long-term project at work.

If you keep waiting for the right moment to kick back and smell the roses, it will never happen because life will get in the way.

bank account, the price of gas…the list goes on. It’s easy to spend all of your energy fretting and contingency planning. Sooner or later, though, you will hit emotional rock bottom (if you have not already), and you will go through life bitter, put-upon and exhausted. Plus, if you do not renew emotionally, you are likely to overreact or underreact to various situations, which will only multiply the number of things you have to fret about! To avoid this fate, you need to allow your emotions to recover and be uplifted on a regular basis.

Renew spiritually. All other types of renewal will be temporary fixes unless you have a deep-seated sense of serenity within you to draw upon. Spiritual discipline is definitely a journey, not a destination, but its benefits are peace, calm and enlightenment. Figure out what works for you, whether it’s meditation, prayer, study, service, or something else, and incorporate it into your routine. Just a few “time-out” moments at the beginning and end of each day can make a significant impact.

Renew physically. While many of us would like to think that frequent trips through the drive-through do not have that much of an ill effect, the truth is that these empty calories have a negative impact on our short- and longterm health. The same goes for poor sleep and insufficient exercise. Look honestly at your eating, fitness and resting habits. Are they helping or hurting? If it’s the latter, you need to know that it’s not only your body that is affected; your productivity, energy, creativity and motivation will also take a hit.

Renew mentally. Most of us never stop to consider how often we feed our minds lessthan-healthy fuel. Whether it’s reality TV, bad romance novels, talk radio, or Farmville, the activities we pursue in our downtime often do not renew our energy (and may even deplete it). No, you do not have to read scholarly articles and watch educational documentaries every day, but it’s important to throw some thought-provoking activities into the mix.

Consider visiting a museum, gallery or arboretum that you normally pass by, or try your hand at something creative like painting or writing.

Renew emotionally. These days there is certainly more than enough to worry about: healthcare, cutbacks at work, your dwindling

Celebrate to intensify renewal. Think about it: life without celebration would be one long stream of to-do lists, thankless tasks and

16 | April 2012

mindless drudgery. When you accomplish a goal or pass a milestone—big or small—it’s smart to take a little time to celebrate your success. Even thirty seconds of allowing joy to bubble up inside you can act as a great pickme-up and keep burnout at bay.

Renew with the people you love. Have you ever noticed that we often work ourselves to the bone to benefit the people we love…and end up rarely spending time with them as a result? No, you cannot blow off all work and responsibilities, but make sure that close relationships stay at the top of your priority list. The fact is, since life and love do not happen in a vacuum, surrounding yourself with people you love guarantees you more positive experiences.

Renew by giving back. The phrase “giving back” often conjures up the mental image of a wealthy philanthropist writing sizeable checks to various charities and organizations. No wonder many of us do not consider ourselves to be givers—we are more focused on making sure that our own accounts are not overdrawn! However, giving does not have to mean cracking open your wallet—time, mentoring others, or giving spiritual or emotional support are all just as valuable.

“Ultimately, taking the time to renew yourself will give you the energy and capacity to enjoy the life you were blessed with—even in the midst of tough times,” Milazzo concludes.

“Remember that it’s okay, and even encouraged, to take care of yourself. While periodic and strategic renewal will not get rid of all your problems, it will lighten your load and help you to remain solid in the midst of the chaos.”✲

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April 2012 | 17

Tackling Multiple Sclerosis with a

“Can Do” attitude

By Angela De Groot

D

anielle Witsch’s 4-year-old son knows his mommy is different. She cannot walk as fast as he can and he can only give her gentle high fives. Danielle Witsch has Multiple Sclerosis (MS).

While on a family vacation last year, Witsch experienced a metallic taste in her mouth and numbness in her tongue. When the numbness spread to the left side of her body, she thought she was having a stroke.

After testing, including a MRI and spinal tap, MS was confirmed.

Multiple Sclerosis is a disease that attacks the central nervous system. Symptoms can include fatigue, vertigo, chronic pain, loss of vision and mobility, weakness, tremors and cognitive difficulties.

When she was first diagnosed, Witsch shut down, “I was scared; in denial.” After spending time talking it through with her younger sister who has CIDP (Chronic Inflammatory Demyelinating Polyneuropathy), Witsch decided she could not feel sorry for herself anymore. “MS isn’t a disease that’s going to kill me.”

A year later, Witsch and her family are still adjusting to the life changes dictated by MS. They moved in with her mother-in-law and Witsch had to go out on disability. Leaving her job behind was tough – Witsch had been employed with her company for ten years; she loved what she did and the people she worked for. “I want that part of my life back,” Witsch says. “I’m not ready to let go of it.”

Witsch’s son is becoming increasingly aware of her condition and the limitations it imposes on her. He knows her legs bother her and she needs to lie down and rest. “He’s very compassionate,” Witsch says.

Danielle and her husband answer all their son’s questions about her condition with complete honesty. She is no longer able to do certain activities with her son that other moms take for granted. “Like the beach, I can’t sit with him in the sand or take him into the water. The heat causes major flare ups.”

When Witsch was diagnosed in February 2011, she weighed 268 pounds. Now, she is 100 pounds lighter. “I needed to lose the weight. I couldn’t function. I looked at myself in the mirror and thought, how are you going to survive this, looking like that?” Witsch completely changed her eating habits, cut out fried foods and soda and took part in Weight Watchers meetings during her lunch hour at work. Whenever she was able to, she went on walks with her mother-in-law. “My diagnosis was a shock. I was depressed, stressed out and I still lost weight.” The more weight she lost, the better she felt. “I’m in a better place now to take on MS.” Witsch gets her positive attitude from her father who died from stomach cancer four years ago. “My dad was an awesome guy. His attitude kept him alive much longer than he should have lived. Even his doctors said so.”

Along with the support from her family and friends, Witsch is also grateful to the National MS Society who is funding her physical therapy.

When she talks about her physical therapist, John Marmarou of Total Rehab and Fitness in Cherry Hill, her face lights up. “He’s crazy enthusiastic about keeping people active. I couldn’t be more blessed.” Last year, when her symptoms were so severe she had to use a cane, Marmarou helped her work through it. Along with PT sessions, Marmarou gave her exercises to do at home.With hard work, dedication and constant moti-

18 | April 2012

vation from Marmarou, Witsch got to the point where she no longer needed the cane. “He’s amazing and Total Rehab and Fitness is my family away Danielle with her son. from family. It’s like that TV show, Cheers. When I walk in, everybody goes, ‘Hi, Danielle.’”

Witsch urges those newly diagnosed with MS to remember they are not alone. “Don’t keep it in, talk about it. Interact with other MS patients – they know what you’re going through.” The most important thing, Witsch says, is to “stay active, keep moving. Physical therapy is so important.”

Danielle Witsch has always been strong and determined for other people. MS has shown her that she can be strong and determined for herself.✲

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April 2012 | 19

Capturing a Moment in Time for Your Children

By Samantha Gill

July 30, 1979: “Please God take me before Joe and the kids. I just couldn’t bear it to lose them.” his is an excerpt from my mom’s personal journal.

Little did she know how this one statement – actually everything she wrote – would sting as much as it did, as I read it for the first time. Her prayer to God eventually came true in November 1987… my mom passed away at the age of 45.When I read this part of the journal, I immediately felt this squeeze in my chest... and then tears. Lots of tears.

My poor mom. How I miss Samantha, Audrey and Adalynne her so.

Recently, my dad came to visit me and my two daughters, and before he left he handed me an envelope. Inside were three journals. Journals my mom had written, and I never knew they existed. I couldn’t believe it. I am sure most would scramble to open them, read them… see them.

But for me…I put them in my bedside table and waited until I knew I would be alone and would have time to spend with them. It was so precious to me. I haven’t had my mom in over 20 years. I was so young when she died that I have very few memories of her.

So when I finally had time, I sat in the quiet of the house and opened her journals. Just to see her handwriting caused a huge wave of emotion.

I have never seen her penmanship before! Amazing!

She starts by saying it’s not a private journal – it’s a journal to be read by her children someday. She wanted to chronicle time, her life and events. She didn’t write consistently – she wrote, she says in the journal, “as the feeling moves me.” Here are some of the things she wrote:

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April 5, 1968: “Last night Martin Luther King was asassinated in Memphis, Tenn. It is indeed a tragedy for he represented hope in that he preached non-violence. Now is the time I wonder about our world, our values and our destiny. We’ve lost something. I fear that Man will ultimately destroy himself if he can’t learn to live together peacefully.”

June 5, 1968: “Senator Robert Kennedy shot in California during victory ceremony in primary. At this point he is extremely critical… Once again I begin to wonder… what is happening in the U.S.?”

als My Mom’s Journ

June 6, 1968: “ RFK is dead.”

July 16, 1969: “Believe or not, we are on our way to a landing on the moon. Today astronauts Armstrong, Aldrin, and Collins were launched by the Saturn 5 Rocket on the Apollo 11 Mission to the Moon!!!!”

July 30, 1979: “On July 23, 1979 at 10:59pm, I lost my Daddy. What can I say? How do you write about losing someone you love? He suffered so. He was a good father….helped me all the time. I pray God will keep him safe for me when we meet.”

When I was done, I sat and cried. How I miss her so! But then I was suddenly motivated. I need to do the same! I need to start a journal. Where to begin? I selected a special notebook and started to write. I used my mom’s journals as a guide.

MY GUIDE TO WRITING ✲ Always start with the date and year. ✲ Share things that may seem silly. Really, when I read my mom’s journals, I loved everything she included! For example, the price of stamps, gas, what her mortgage was, what a car costs, etc. (I couldn’t believe when my mom wrote, that she made a little more than $300 a month working as a teacher!) ✲ Talk from the heart. My mom spoke what was her truth. What she felt when she lost her dad and what she felt about herself and our country. ✲ You do not have to write every day. That may make it seem more like a job or something to add to your “to do” list. When you feel it’s important…write! ✲ Write about the birth of your children. It was so heartwarming to read about my birth and what my mom felt about me. ✲ Most importantly, even though my mom wrote about tough things like assassinations, the death of her Dad, Vietnam, etc. My mom still kept it positive. I felt VERY loved after reading it. She never complained about her children and her husband. She repeated over and over in the journal how much she loved my dad, my brother and me. ✲ Just start. Don’t worry if your children are already 10 or 12. Start now.

It’s never too late. ✲ And finally, along with writing a journal, my mom wrote both me and my brother one letter each, sealed it, mailed it back to herself and kept it safe. It was a letter to talk to us “privately” about how she felt about us individually. It’s the most precious gift I have ever received.

I hope that starting these journals for my two daughters (3 and 16 months) will help them know who I am, what I believe in and just how much I adore them.

My mom started writing her journals when she was 24 and wrote my special letter when I was just a baby, without knowing the significance of them. She did not know at the time, that she would succumb to cancer at such a young age. What a wonderful woman. I feel like I will always have a little bit of her with me now. And that is priceless.✲ Samantha Gill is mom to Audrey (3) and Adalynne (16 months) and wife to Craig. She lives in Northfield and works full time as a social worker. She loves being a mom and enjoys writing about it, too. She earned her bachelor’s of social work from Richard Stockton College and hopes to complete her master’s degree, which she started at St. Joseph’s University some time ago, when she finds the time!

July 20, 1969, 10:51p.m. Sunday: “Neil Armstrong steps on Moon and says, ‘One small step for man… One giant leap for mankind.’

20 | April 2012

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April 2012 | 21

22 | April 2012

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By Lisa Ann Panzino DiNunzio

Fun this Spring!

pril is a great month to bake up something fun with the children in your life, be it your child, grandchild, niece, nephew, etc. Springtime parties are usually going on at school, church or home, and it’s so rewarding and exciting to serve up something homemade versus store bought, if time allows.

Every April my niece Christina (now 12) and I make our annual “Spring Lamb” cake, made in a mold that was handed down to my mom by her grandmom. I love that we are continuing a family culinary tradition, and I encourage you to share your special family recipes and traditions with the children in your life, and let them help with age appropriate tasks in the kitchen. They will be so proud of their accomplishments, and will also enjoy eating the foods a little more knowing they helped prepare them!

A

SPRING LAMB CAKE 1 box yellow cake mix or organic cake mix 2 large (16.2 oz.) containers whipped vanilla frosting or homemade buttercream frosting 1 (14 oz.) bag shredded sweetened coconut Green food coloring, for decoration purposes Chocolate chips, for eyes and nose • Preheat oven to 350°. In a bowl; prepare cake mix per directions on package.

• Grease lamb molds with nonstick cooking spray.

• Pour batter into molds until 3/4 full.

• Bake per directions on cake mix package, or until a toothpick inserted into the center of the cakes comes out clean.

• Allow cakes to cool in mold for 3 - 5 minutes, turn cakes out onto serving dishes. Allow cakes to completely cool, then frost.

• Using the shredded coconut, sprinkle all over one of the lamb cakes until fully covered. Add two chocolate chips for the eyes, and one chocolate chip for the nose.

• For the second lamb cake just frost, but omit coconut, add eyes and nose using chocolate chips. In a bowl, add some shredded coconut, and a few drops of green food coloring, stir, add more food coloring until your coconut reaches the color of green grass.

recipe corner

Bake Something

Christina (at 10 years old) with her Spring Lamb cake, a family tradition she makes every year with Aunt Lisa

• Add the green coconut around the bottom of the lamb cakes to make it look like their standing on grass.

• Sprinkle jellybeans throughout the coconut grass if desired.

Note: The lamb cake mold my niece and I use is very old, but they have similar molds at baking supply stores and online. I personally do not make the lamb cake as one cake, but fill both sides of the mold with batter and bake them as two separate cakes. That way it serves more people, and they are much easier to make and decorate, and I can serve one without coconut for those who do not like it.✲

Lisa is the author of the cookbooks “Seasoned With Love, Treasured Recipes” & “Lisa Ann’s Seasoned With Love II”, and author of the children’s book “Snicker Learns an Important Lesson.”

For more recipes, visit her “Let’s Get Cookin’!” Blog at lisaanndinunzio.blogspot.com or follow her Facebook Food & Recipe page at www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=100001935347501.

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know 2 grow

The High-Tech Tongue-Tied Tween: Why So Many Kids Struggle to Connect with Others

By Maribeth Kuzmeski

weens and technology. These days they are as inseparable as toddlers and their teddy bears. And here is the irony: Today’s young people are more “connected” than any other generation in history, but they have a general inability to, well, connect. In fact, many can barely carry on the most basic conversations and have trouble articulating what they want or need.

I’m not saying the digital world is the reason why young people struggle to function in the real one. At least it’s not the only one. It’s more like a crutch. Because technology is so pervasive, tweens use it as a substitute for real conversations. And so they do not hone those critical skills.

Learning to engage and connect, of course, begins long before the tween years. Kids learn by doing. And just as we must push kids to clean their rooms and do their homework, it’s up to us as parents to force them to interact with others in persuasive, polite and engaging ways.

Technology is only part of the problem.The other part is that we tend to do things for our kids that we need to be teaching them to do for themselves. We set up their dental appointments, for example. We place their orders in restaurants. We talk to their teachers. We call in sick for them when they need to miss a day of school. We do these things because we have always done them—and in the process we squander what could be rich learning opportunities.

Read on to learn strategies you can incorporate into your family’s life, as well as the skills they will help your kids develop naturally and organically:

T

Have them place a restaurant order.

The next time you are dining out, use it as an opportunity for your child to interact with the server in a way that gets results.

Instruct him to order his own meal, complete with requests to hold the pickles or bring extra ketchup or ranch for the fries.

Help them return an item to a store, especially at a busy time. At some point, your child is going to receive a birthday gift she already owns, a sweater from Aunt Grace that might have fit her two years ago, or a toy that is damaged or missing a part. When you make the trip to the customer service desk, be sure to bring your daughter along. Ask her to explain why she is returning the item and to specify

24 | April 2012

whether she would like an exchange, cash, or store credit. And (as always) remind her to use “please” and “thank you.”

Ask them to set up an appointment. Whenever he needs to visit the doctor, dentist, or hairstylist (or even when your dog needs to go to the vet!), ask him to call and book the appointment. Instruct him to be as detailed as possible when requesting a visit time, and help him to look at the calendar before confirming to make sure there is not a conflict.

Help them to decline invitations. Between friends’ birthday parties, cousins’ graduation celebrations, classmates’ bar mitzvahs, and more, your child is going to be invited to events that she is unable to attend.

Once she has looked at the calendar and seen that she is already busy, go over polite refusals with her so she knows what to say.Then ask her to call the event’s host and explain why she can not attend.

Make them do their own fundraising. At some point between kindergarten and high school graduation, most children will be asked to participate in fundraising. Whether she is selling cookies for her Girl Scout troop, magazine subscriptions to raise money for a band trip, or coupon books for her school, require that your child do all of the selling herself. Instead of taking her catalog and order forms to work, let her come to the office—if only for thirty minutes during lunch—and make her pitch in person. You can also prompt her to approach people she knows at church and in your neighborhood, and to phone friends and relatives.

Regardless of your child’s age, making these connections might not be easy at first. Depending on your kids’ ages and personalities, they may balk at being asked to get into the proverbial driver’s seat. But be insistent and consistent.Your children’s comfort levels will increase, and especially as they begin to experience positive connecting outcomes, they will become more and more proactive.✲ To learn more about how you can help your child connect and communicate effectively, check out The Engaging Child: Raising Children to Speak, Write, and Have Relationship Skills Beyond Technology by Maribeth Kuzmeski, MBA, CSP. For more information, visit www.theengagingchild.com.

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Fighting the Fight of a Lifetime

By Mary Oves

A

s mothers, our first response to the discomfort of our children is to want to protect them, to take away the hurt. When they are well, we are thankful, and wonder how we would handle it if they were not.

I would crumble, you think. If something happened to any of my children, I would fall apart.

But 33-year-old Marilyn Roser, of Wenonah, realizes that falling apart in times of trouble and misfortune is no way to run a family. As a mother of four to Michael, 9, and 4-year old triplets Scott, Spencer and Sterling, she Sterling Roser knows the importance of sticking together.

Michael was diagnosed with PDD-NOS (Pervasive Developmental Disorder-Not Otherwise Specified) when he was 3, she was initially devastated.

“I always knew something was wrong, but to actually hear it, was like someone reached inside me and ripped my soul out. I had no clue what to think, my first thought was, ‘Oh my God, my son is never going to live a normal life.’ I had a very hard time coping,” says Marilyn.

PDD-NOS is one of the autism spectrum disorders, and describes individuals who do not fully meet the criteria for autistic disorder or Asperger Syndrome. When someone has mild symptoms, or have symptoms in one area but not another, they may be given the PDD-NOS diagnosis.

Marilyn says when Michael was young, it was tough. “His younger years were awful. He didn’t speak, had constant meltdowns, wasn’t a good sleeper, it really was sad. But with constant therapy, and all the different programs he’s been in, he has come a long way. If it wasn’t for the support and strength from my husband, I don’t know where I would be right now,” says Marilyn.

Michael is doing very well in school and Marilyn is proud of his social skills and improvement. “He is in regular school, and up until this year, he had a one-on-one aid. He loves school and is very popular with his peers. Michael is doing so well it really doesn’t affect our everyday lives.”

Marilyn was shocked when she discovered she was having triplets.

“I almost passed out. I did not take any fertility drugs, it happened naturally.” www.southjerseymom.com

Michael, Scott, Spencer & Sterling

Marilyn’s grandmother has raised her since age 10. “My grandmother Elizabeth, is my biggest inspiration. She is the sole reason I am the mother, wife and strong woman I am today. I love and admire her more than she’ll ever know. I thank God for her every day, and could NEVER imagine life without her. She is my best friend!”

On February 12, 2011, Marilyn was handed another challenge, this one seemingly tougher than the first. Three weeks after his 3rd birthday, Sterling, one of the triplets, was diagnosed with Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia.

Marilyn credits her husband and her children for the strength and motivation to get up and face each new day.

“I myself have no clue how I have made it through this last year. I’m not the inspiration in this story, my children are. They are stronger than I will ever be. They are so resilient, such beautiful little human beings. I look up to them. They amaze me everyday with their love and kindness for one another and life. I am the luckiest mommy in the world.”

Normalcy is important to Marilyn, especially since her children’s happiness is important to her. Sitting around the house brooding does not benefit anyone.

“If you were to come to my house or see my family out in public, you would NEVER know anything was wrong.We are always laughing and smiling. The kids make me strong; I really have no choice in the matter. I thank God I have so many children who need me, because if Sterling was my only child, I would probably want to curl up in a ball next to him and give up on life.”

Marilyn admits to getting so angry at the cancer that she barely feels she can go on some days.

“I have felt defeated when Sterling is so ill and I can’t make him better. I remember sitting in his cancer clinic in August, when he was at his worst, with his bald little listless body in my arms, no longer able to walk or talk or eat, and asking the doctors, ‘Is my son going to die?’ I am crying right now even sharing this. I get through it because I get really angry at the cancer and my mommy mentality takes over and I will not let this cancer break me, I need to be there for my children.”

The advice Marilyn would like to offer other mothers is to remember that there is always someone worse off than they are.

“I thought autism was the worst thing that would ever happen to one of my children, until cancer struck. But my son has a good prognosis – other parents know their child will not survive.”

Sterling continues to fight his fight at CHOP in Philadelphia, and makes his family proud.✲

April 2012 | 25

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Are You Allergic to Spring?

Come see the doctors at Allergy and Asthma Care!

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Cloth Diapers You Say?

By Melanie Hones

Y

es, you heard that correctly! Hundreds of families in South Jersey use cloth diapers. Why, you may ask? Some use them for the savings, some for the environment and then there is the cute factor.

But before you start using cloth diaMelanie Hones and daughters Savannah, 5 and pers, you have to do Sophia, 15 months. some research. And there is an initial investment. Choosing what cloth diapers to use can be very overwhelming, so here are some do’s and don’ts for success. m DO your research.There are many different types of cloth diapers out there to choose from. These are not your grandma’s cloth diapers.

There are prefolds, flats, fitteds, covers, pocket diapers, All-inOne(AIOs), All-in-2(AI2s), hybrid diapers and WAHM made (work-athome mom) to name a few. m DO find a cloth diaper-safe detergent. Many mainstream laundry detergents have enzymes and optical brighteners in them that will damage your diapers and could cause repelling issues resulting in leaks. m DO try different brands and types. Not all babies are created the same shape and size. Trying different brands and types allows you to find the best fit for your baby or toddler. There are some web sites that allow you to do a cloth diaper trial or rental programs. Make sure you read the return policies when purchasing diapers. m DO plan on washing every other day. That is the recommended time between washing diapers. m DO use your diapers for your next child, donate or sell them to recoup more savings. m DO NOT get discouraged. When in doubt ask for help. There are groups of moms throughout South Jersey that meet and discuss cloth diapering. Also, call the retailer or manufacturer of your cloth diapers; they have knowledgeable customer service representatives. m DO NOT use zinc-based or petroleum-based diaper creams. These creams leave a residue on cloth diapers and either stain them permanently or cause them to repel fluids. There are a number of cloth diaper-safe creams on the market. If you must use these creams, use a liner or something between your baby and the diaper and wash it separate from your cloth diapers. m DO NOT dry your waterproof materials in the dryer. Hang dry covers to prolong the life of the waterproof layer and elastic. High temperatures, such as those in a dryer can cause your diapers to delaminate and cause leaking.

www.southjerseymom.com

m DO NOT use bleach on your diapers unless absolutely necessary.

Check with the diaper manufacturer first, as this may void warranties. For stains and to disinfect diapers, hang them in the sun to dry. The sun is a natural bleaching agent and sanitizer for diapers. m DO NOT be scared of “poop” in your washer.There are several ways to dispose of solids before putting them in your washing machine. Do some research to find the best solution for you. I use a diaper sprayer, which attaches to the toilet and allows me to spray solids into the toilet so there is nothing visible on the diaper when it goes into the washer. Plus, the diaper sprayer is useful for many other household chores as well.

If you are looking to see cloth diapers in action, come to the Great Cloth Diaper Change event in Pittsgrove on April 21, 2012. Join me and many other cloth diapering moms as we try to break a Guinness Book record. For more information, visit greatclothdiaperchange.com or www.facebook.com/pages/The-Great-Cloth-Diaper-Change-2012Southern-NJ/150292788425825.✲

Cloth Diaper Resources: Rental Programs: www.jilliansdrawers.com Trial Programs: www.nickisdiapers.com Social Networking: www.facebook.com/groups/281090941956302 and www.facebook.com/pages/Try-Cloth-Dipes/ 120771694614606 Resources for learning about cloth diapers: www.pinstripesandpolkadots.com

April 2012 | 27

just born

Looking for the latest gadgets, toys, books or family related products? Look no further! Each month, we highlight the latest and greatest just for you. Take a look at these “just born” products and add them to your list of must haves!

1

Pura Stainless Steel Pura Stainless Steel’s Kiki line features electro-polished stainless steel bottles made from the highest quality, food service grade stainless steel, making them resistant to corrosion and staining. The brand new textured silicone bottle sleeves prevent condensation and keep little hands from getting hot/cold. $6.99 and up, www.purastainless.com

2

Slick Sugar – Keep the Music Alive Tee SlickSugar lets little kids do good while they look good. A percentage of proceeds from “Keep the Music Alive” tees go to the non-profit organization Little Kids Rock, a leading provider of free music lessons and musical instruments to underprivileged children in public schools. Sizes 6 months through 5/6. $26, www.slicksugar.com

3

4

Miniclasix Children’s Clothing With spring styles for the swankiest sandbox soirees to durable cotton tees capable of withstanding the roughest tumble, Miniclasix children’s clothing makes dressing a cinch. Fabrics that are soft to the touch, adorable trompe l'oeil, and extensive detailing mark the undeniable style and quality of Miniclasix’ Spring 2012 collection. $40-75, www.nordstrom.com and www.saksfifthavenue.com Company Kids La Crosse® Jr. Tcs® Down Comforters This exclusive down comforter is packed with TCS® Down fill, plump and cozy in a 232-thread count cotton cover. 12” stitched squares not only carve out a classic baffled design, they also prevent the fill from shifting for comfort that lasts all night long. $89 and up, www.thecompanystore.com

5

Lakeshore Learning Downloads Lakeshore Learning Materials are designed specifically for children ages 3–11, their new titles provide parents and teachers with an exciting— and affordable—way to help kids build important skills in language, math and science…while having fun! Over 100 titles to choose from. $14.95, www.LakeshoreLearning.com

6

Wuggle Pets Wuggle Pets are a new activity kit of adorable baby animals that are easy to make and fun to collect! These snuggly friends come to life as children create their own pet right at home. Children simply add stuffing using the Fun Fill Factory (winding stuffing machine), sprinkle a little magical dust, put in a personality charm, and watch as it grows. $19.99, www.wugglepets.com

7

Every Which Way to Pray by Joyce Meyer Hayley and Harley Hippo want to pray, but believe that in order to be close to God, they must pray quietly in a church – with heads bowed, hands folded and dressed in their Sunday best. With the help of a quirky pelican, the zoo‘s sheepish librarian, and a bear police officer, the readers discover that prayer is simply talking to God as a friend. $15.99, available in book stores

28 | April 2012

8

Sidekick Child Carrier Diaper Bag Sidekick is the first and only full-size diaper bag with a built in child carrier. Adjustable strap allows you to carry baby at either hip. Includes spacious compartments and pockets for all of baby‘s and mom‘s things.

Multiple colors to choose from. Designed for infants and toddlers up to 35 pounds and between 6 months and 3 years old. $129, www.gogobabyz.com

9

fohawx Fohawx are an embellishment kids can add to any safety helmet, allowing them to be safe and look great at the same time. With fohawx, safety never looked so cool. From long flowing strips fashioned like dreadlocks, to wacky and colorful punk shapes and high-top Mohawks, kids can wear, collect, and swap these unique accessories. $19.99, www.fohawx.com

10

Plum Organics Baby Food Yummy baby food that’s always made with care, always certified organic, always nutrient rich, no icky stuff, BPS-free packaging and earth friendly.

Prices Vary, Target and Babies R Us

11

Snapparel Snapparel premium denim jeans and capris allow girls to attach a variety of decorative hemline cuffs to suit her mood. The cuffs are available in three different lengths, so as girls grow they can attach longer cuffs to extend the life of their favorite pair of Snapparel jeans. Jeans and capris are available in 2T up to size 10. $7.99 and up, www.snapparel.com

12

Little Angels DVDs Preschool twins Alex and Zoe are blessed to have eight Little Angels watching over them – literally! These Little Angels “live” on the ceiling of their bedroom, painted there so they are the first things the kids see when they wake up in the morning and the last thing they see before they fall asleep at night. The angels come to life when the children need them most, helping guide them through the challenges of their young lives. $12.99, www.christianbook.com

13

Live Clean (baby) Products Baby‘s bath time is essential, and choosing the right wash that is not only safe for you and the baby, but safe for mother earth is a challenge. Made with all natural ingredients and purified water enriched with organic lavendar, chamomile & aloe, this tear-free product will keep baby‘s skin nourished, clean and smelling good. $7.99, Walgreens

14

iNTAKT Boys Clothing Stylish, sensible and fun surf, skate and street pop inspired tees, shirts, hoodies, shorts and pants for boys 12 mos. to 7 years. Cool designs for boys that parents will love! $22-55, www.intaktclothing.com

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April 2012 | 29

making a difference

Local Organization Makes an “Impact” on Humanity

By Adrienne Richardson

I

n Spring 2007, Harry Behrens, of Buena, went to Waveland, Mississippi on a short term missions trip to help rebuild after Hurricane Katrina.

Over and over again he spoke with people that lost all of their personal belongings – from photos to houses.

On his way home from Mississippi, Harry had an overwhelming urge to get rid of all his debt and material attachments. He told his wife Valerie he wanted to sell their house and rent, to free themselves from the bondage of owning so they could freely follow God. This was not received well at first, but eventually Valerie agreed.

A year and a half later, after a lot of patience and waiting, they finally sold their house. Harry, his wife, and his two sons, Anthony and Tyler, moved into their grandparent’s old house, situated on seven acres of land.

Shortly after moving in, Harry noticed an elderly woman walking past his house carrying grocery bags. After catching up with her and giving her a ride home, he learned this was a normal routine for the woman.

Harry and his wife arranged to take the woman to the store once a week. They learned she was on food stamps and never bought produce because it was too expensive and goes bad quickly.

After almost a year of taking the woman to the store, Harry planted a garden in his back yard to help the elderly woman get fresh produce and to also help others in need.

“I just looked at this empty field in the backyard and figured I should start doing something while I wait for God to tell me what to do with my life,” Harry says. He had every intention of buying plants and seed for the field. But Tom, a man from his church, offered to give him a few leftover plants he had. Tom showed up with 800 heads of lettuce!

Throughout the summer, with the plants Tom donated, and $0 additional out-of-pocket expenses, Harry planted 800 heads of lettuce, 200 tomato plants, 300 pepper plants, 100 watermelon and cantaloupe plants and a bunch of corn. Of course, he did all of this with the help of his family.

30 | April 2012

“In the beginning, my wife and kids were the only helpers,” says Harry. “They came along side me and we did this together, as a family. We felt so led by God to do this, there was no way I would have done it without them; my family was so supportive and helpful.” Harry continued tending the garden in addition to working his full time job at Comcast.

Later that year, Harry’s friend Rich started a garden at his house also. Harry and Rich realized this thing was bigger than they were. After a lot of prayer and discussion, Impact Harvest was born. Impact Harvest became an organization that gives free produce to anyone in need.

In 2011, Impact Harvest gave away approximately $30,000 worth of produce to thousands of people. They had six distribution sites in Cumberland and Atlantic County and 150 volunteers throughout the season.

Their goal for 2012, is to give away $100,000 worth of produce. To reach this goal, Impact Harvest is in need of volunteers and financial donations. “This is a great volunteer opportunity for families to do together.

Children as young as 4 years old can participate,” says Harry. “It’s a joy to watch the children learn how a farm works, how they are helping their community and how to work together.”

“Last year,” Harry shares, “we heard stories about volunteers bringing produce to their neighbors. Neighbors they never spoke to. This kind gesture opened doors for them to connect with others in a way that didn’t exist before. People were touched by their care for humanity, and were amazed by the generosity of Impact Harvest.”

If you can volunteer at the farm in Buena one day a week, or one day a month consistently, contact Impact Harvest. May 19 is their first planting day of the season. To learn how you can make an impact, visit www.ImpactHarvest.org.✲

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April 2012 | 31

summer camp guide

The Lazy, Hazy…Anxious? Days of Summer: What Every Parent Should Know Before Sending Kids to Summer Camp

oon school will be out, temperatures will rise…and that means kids and their parents are gearing up for day camps and sleep-away camps. The problem is, not all soonto-be campers are excited about their summer schedules. Some children are unsure about spending so much time away from their homes and parents…and some are downright terrified by the prospect. Yes, most children experience some degree of separation anxiety, and many eventually learn to deal with the absence of their parents without experiencing undue stress. However, assuming that your homesick child will “get over it” might be a false—and even dangerous—assumption to make.

“There are many different degrees of homesickness, and it’s important to deal with them in appropriate ways,” says Todd Patkin, author of the new book Finding Happiness: One Man’s Quest to Beat Depression and Anxiety and— Finally—Let the Sunshine In. “It’s especially crucial to note that about1 in 25 children suffers from Separation Anxiety Disorder.

Before sending your children away from home this summer, read on to learn how to spot separation anxiety and how you may be able to alleviate it if it appears, provided it isn’t severe:

your own apprehensions to the pile. (And certainly do not bring up worrisome what-ifs yourself—for example, “I just don’t know how I’m going to make it a whole week without you here, Junior!”)

S

HOW TO ALLEVIATE NON-SEVERE SEPARATION ANXIETY Talk it over with your child. Before signing up for any camp or an away-from-home activity, talk to your child about it. Ask him how he’s feeling and what he thinks about these plans.

Above all, be sure to acknowledge your child’s feelings as legitimate. Even if you do not believe there is any real reason for him to be upset, remember that his feelings and fears are very real in his own mind.

Realize that some amount of separation anxiety is normal. Yes, listen to your child and give her wishes some weight. Also realize,

Feed your child’s interests. Sometimes homesickness can be sparked by boredom and unhappiness—so do not assume that just because you enjoyed science camp in your youth, for example, your child will too. It’s always a good idea to make sure that any camp you are considering for your child is a good fit for him. After all, if he is happy and engaged, his attention is more likely to be focused on what is right in front of him, and not on what he is missing.

though, that at some point you are likely to hear some variation on the “Mom, Dad, don’t leave me—I’ll miss you!” theme from any youngster. The timing and duration vary, but every child experiences some level of stress when facing a separation from his or her loved ones—so there might be no need to panic. The fact is, no matter how independent or self-possessed your child is, chances are she will probably be reluctant to leave you. That is normal.

Look for causes. While almost every child does experience some degree of separation anxiety, these feelings do not always originate within the child. They can also be caused or exacerbated by outside circumstances. If your child is feeling distressed for another reason, he will be in need of extra comfort and security…which can easily lead to a stronger-thanusual desire to be with his parents in familiar surroundings.

Stay calm and positive. You have probably noticed that negativity, pessimism, and worry tend to breed more of the same—and it should come as no surprise that this trend holds true when it comes to your children. If your prospective camper voices worries, acknowledge them, but do not feed into them by adding

Let your child take “home” with him.

Your child may be traveling miles away, but there is no reason why she needs to leave home behind altogether. Send familiar objects with her, such as a favorite stuffed animal, a small picture of you and phone numbers. She will feel less cut off from everything that is familiar, and will therefore be less likely to experience severe homesickness. It’s even better if she can go to camp with a friend from home.

Don’t be too quick to provide an out.

When dealing with separation anxiety, this is often the hardest line of all for parents to walk.

If your child is upset and emotional and begs to be with you, you would need to have a heart of stone not to be affected. Many parents soon give in to their child’s pleading rather than endure their own resulting anguish!

“I believe there are very few children who won’t at least feel a twinge of homesickness when overnight camp—or any significant separation—rolls around,” concludes Patkin. “But if you approach the situation positively and rationally and encourage your child to do the same, you’ll both be better prepared for the separation—and you will be better equipped to determine if your child’s anxiety levels aren’t normal or healthy.”✲

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32 | April 2012

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Registration for the 2012 Wow! Science Camp® has begun Register early to join the trip to the White House, make your own chocolate at the Hershey Factory, meet NBC10’s Glenn “Hurricane” Schwartz at camp, and much more!

2012 camp runs from June 25 to August 17. For ages 5 to 14.

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Visit www.wowsciencecamp.org to register.

Be sure to check out our virtual open house.

Register today as space is limited.

For inquiries call (877) 541-CAMP (2267) or email advisor@wowsciencecamp.org

Wow! Science Camp® is a nonprofit summer science camp committed to promoting children’s interest in science.

We offer fun, hands-on science experiments and projects, math games and simulations, etiquette and money management lessons, review of STEM careers, and eight thrilling field trips.

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34 | April 2012

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36 | April 2012

Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

For a complete list of events, log onto www.southjerseymom.com

To submit your event, send an email to calendar@southjerseymom.com.

Entries are due six weeks prior to the event and are filled on a first come first serve basis. Space is limited.

ATLANTIC COUNTY 2nd Annual Atlantic City Boardwalk Rodeo March 30 – April 1 Thrilling bareback, tie down and team roping events, to the electrifying saddle bronc, steer wrestling, barrel racing and bull riding events, the action takes place from one end of the arena to the other!

Tickets are $16 and up. Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk. www.acboardwalkrodeo.com, (609) 348-7000 Ringling Bros. And Barnum & Bailey Presents Barnum Bash April 19 – 22 Ringling Bros. Presents Barnum Bash has assembled the most amazing international acts including The Mighty Dmytrio, Motorcycle Mania, Epic Asian Elephants, Wheel of Steel, and Hand Balancers. All are tricked-out for the circus party and ready to perform wild feats of wonders and strength, to contemporary pop music and in 21st century Barnum style. Tickets $20 and up. Atlantic City Boardwalk Hall, 2301 Boardwalk. (609) 348-7000

BURLINGTON COUNTY Earth Day Celebration April 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Celebrate Earth Day in the Burlington County Park System!

Families can participate in free conservation-minded activities ranging from recycling and composting workshops to kids' games and crafts. See website for more specific information and itinerary for each park. (609) 265-5858, www.co.burlington.nj.us/parks VIVA Goodwill: A Sure Bet Fundraiser April 26 at 6 p.m.

This fundraising event will raise money to support Goodwill’s high caliber job training programs and career services that help prepare local residents with disabilities and disadvantages for competitive employment in the community.

Festivities include a buffet dinner, open bar, and casino games ranging from Blackjack and Craps to www.southjerseymom.com

Texas Hold’em Poker and Roulette. $125/person. Aloft Hotel, Mt. Laurel. (856) 439-0200, ext. 224.

CAMDEN COUNTY Hansel & Gretel April 3, 4, 5, 7,10, 11, 12, 14 at 2 p.m.

Follow the trail for a sweet tale of a brother and sister who lose their way in the woods and find a tasty house with an unsavory occupant.

The Discovery Museum, 2040 Springdale Rd, Cherry Hill. $10.95 for adults and children; under 12 months are free. (856) 424-1233, www.discoverymuseum.com Dino Day & Bug Bonanza Family Festival April 14 and 15 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Celebrate dinosaurs and insects while digging for fossils in Dino Garden! This festival includes educational activities, a fun planting activity, and themed crafts. Camden Children’s Garden, Camden. (856) 365-8733, www.camdenchildrensgarden.org Earth and Arbor Day Family Festival April 28 and 29 from 1 to 4 p.m.

Celebrate Earth Day amid the beauty of 4.5-acres of children’s themed gardens and the Philadelphia Eagles Four Seasons Butterfly House. This festival includes planting activities, a ladybug release, crafts and educational activities to learn about and to help celebrate Mother Earth!

Camden Children’s Garden, Camden. (856) 365-8733, www.camdenchildrensgarden.org

CAPE MAY COUNTY Easter Egg Hunt April 8 Morey’s Piers Easter Celebration is sure to delight the kid in all of us with rides, food, entertainment and even an Easter Egg Hunt for the little kids. Morey’s Piers, Wildwood. (609) 522-3900, www.moreyspiers.com

CUMBERLAND COUNTY "PAWS FOR ART" DOGS INVITED! April 1 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Pet owners are invited to bring

their dogs onsite to engage in various animal-themed activities including a dog parade, a dog caricaturist, a face painter, book readings, a children’s animal art exhibition, working dog demonstrations and exhibits, pet supplies, animal-themed glass making demonstrations, kids activities, and animal awareness organizations. (856) 825-6800 www.wheatonarts.org, Tea & Teaching for Home School Families Workshop #2 April 7 from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m.

Constellation Academy will provide lots of hands on activities in this fast paced, interactive workshop – plus make & take and things to do and use right away to enhance your home schooling goals! For both novice and veteran Christian home school families. $15/person (spouse is free); Tea refreshments served. Includes binder and other supplies.

Vineland Public Library, 1058 E. Landis Ave, Vineland. PreRegistration Required. E-mail: ConstellationAcademy@ gmail.com or call (856) 205-9334.

ConstellationAcademyHSRN.blogs pot.com The Cumberland County College 5K Fun Run/1 Mile Walk April 28 Step out with the CCC Alumni Association to help provide an affordable education for all Cumberland County students!

(856) 691-8600 x 390

GLOUCESTER COUNTY Combination Yard Sale/ Clothing Drive April 28 from 8 a.m. to 12 p.m.

RESERVE YOUR SPACE NOW! 18 X 20 space for $10 (bring your own table). Set up starts at 7 am.

Blackwood Elementary School, 260 Blenheim-Erial Rd., Blackwood.

Contact Angela Barr at (609) 9234931 or angela614@comcast.net.

All Aboard for Tea & The Titanic April 15 at 2 p.m.

You are cordially invited to attend a tea party to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the Titanic.

things 2 do

April Calendar

Hosted by Amelia's Teas & Holly and Jennifer Myerson & Lori Yeager of Literary Ladies.

Enjoy music, tea, desserts, trivia, displays & more! Meet "Real" survivors of the Titanic including Mrs. Margaret "Molly" Brown and more.

Period dress encouraged, but not required. (856) 223-0404 or www.ameliasteasandholly.com, 26 South Main St, Mullica Hill.

The Princess and The Pirate April 20 and 21 An original story by Mr. Malcolm! A princess from a far away kingdom meets the son of a pirate king and the two fall madly in love. But there is a problem: both kings are enemies of one another. Will the prince and the princess ever be able to be together? Will the two kings ever settle their disputes?

Broadway Theatre of Pitman, 43 S. Broadway, Pitman. (856) 384-8381, www.thebroadwaytheatre.org

SALEM COUNTY Springtime Surprise March 31 – April 1 Come out for a day of fun at the farm! Activities include: hayride, visit with the Barnyard Bunch, egg hunt, craft, games and so much more! $14/child and $3/adult. 4 events to choose from. Reservation required to coombsbarnyard@hotmail.com or (856) 358-5169.

Coombs Barnyard, 20 Rte 77, Elmer. www.coombsbarnyard.com Jim West in North, South, East, and Jim West April 14 from 2 to 3 p.m.

Travel the globe with Jim West’s multicultural extravaganza of puppeteering including puppetry, classical music, storytelling and geography – this thrilling show has something for everyone! Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, Elmer. $8/person. www.appelfarm.org Taste of Throwing Workshop April 19 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Here's your chance to get a taste of creating pottery in just one class.

Ages 6 and up (1 adult/1 child) (856) 358-2472. Appel Farm Arts & Music Center, Elmer. www.appelfarm.org/node/1123 April 2012 | 37

resource guide

FOR MOM HEY MOMS: TAKE A BREAK! Take time for yourself and enjoy a yummy latte or smoothie.

Meet a friend or bring a good book! Text LARRYS to 91944 and receive a coupon for a FREE beverage in the café.

Larry’s II, 907 N. Main Rd, Vineland. www.larrys2.com

GIFT IDEAS

At BASKET CASES, “There’s a BASKET for every case!”

We design personalized Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Birthday, Anniversary, Get Well gift baskets and more. Also offering party favors for weddings, birthdays, church functions and any other kind you can think of! Kourtney Ippolito @ (609) 8058089, basket.cases@ymail.com. On Facebook @ BASKET CASES GREAT PERSONALIZED GIFTS FOR ALL AGES At JUST FOR LITTLE PEOPLE (and others, too!) we specialize in new baby gifts both hand-painted or embroidered. Beautifully wrapped and available for pick-up at our new Gibbsboro location, or we can ship it for you. Visit www.justforlittlepeople.com or call (856) 627-8901.

JEANNETTE’S BLOOMERS Offering beautiful LOCALLY grown flowers from May through September. Our flowers are grown specifically for use in floral arrangements and live longer. Before your next event, call us for top notch quality and competitive pricing! Local delivery available.

(609) 501-2572

HOME SCHOOL RESOURCES TOUCH THE STARS: NEW HOME SCHOOL RESOURCES NETWORK! CONSTELLATION ACADEMY provides Christ-centered home school course instruction, Principle Approach parent/teacher mentoring, group field trip coordination, and other services to home schooling families in 2012-2013 school year. (856) 205-9334, www.ConstellationAcademyHSRN.blogspot.com.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES EARN EXTRA INCOME ON YOUR SCHEDULE Are you a DRIVEN, MOTIVATED FEMALE who wants to earn extra income on your schedule? No stocking or delivering products.

National Health & Wellness Company with 26 yrs of proven success.

Call Brenda Regalbuto at (609) 685-5684 for more info.

PARTIES CELEBRATE CREATIVELY! Abrakadoodle’s CUSTOMIZED CELEBRATIONS are perfect for BIRTHDAY, PLAY DATES and SCOUTING events. Every child takes home a FRAMED masterpiece! Hosted at your location we provide an ARTFULLY FUN teacher, materials & frames. Call 856-914-0521 or visit www.abrakadoodle.com/nj01.

FUNKY FUN FACEPAINTING Kids, teens, and adult theme parties. Contact: Michele Peraino & Christie Chandler at (609) 247-4275 or sharky8mup@comcast.net.

PAINT ME Paint Me offers amazing, affordable face painting using quality paints, glitter tattoos, balloon animals and workshops. How fun would it be to have your kids do the face painting? www.paintmebodyart.com or (856) 905-4066 GET NEW BLING FOR SPRING Invite your friends over for a Girl’s Night Out with Premier Designs Jewelry and receive FREE jewelry! Choose from over 700 beautiful, affordable pieces. Makes the perfect gift for Mother’s Day. Made in the USA. Call (609) 209-5327 today!

38 | April 2012

NOW HIRING! BECOME AN ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE WITH South Jersey MOM • Flexible hours - 20 hours per week minimum • Work from home - must have home office setup Interested applicants should send cover letter and resume to chris@superiorgx.com *Experience preferred, but not required. Full training provided.

Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

www.southjerseymom.com

April 2012 | 39

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