February 2010 - South Jersey Mom Magazine

February

10 special ways to say I LOVE YOU on Valentine’s Day Start SHOPPING for the

PERFECT PRESCHOOL PROS AND CONS FOR

PARENTS OF TWINS (...and triplets)

2010

CELEBRATE

BLACK HISTORY MONTH local MOMs share their lives

thinking ahead to summer

SPECIAL SUMMER CAMPS SECTION

• Free hot lunch & snacks • All trained, state licensed teachers on staff • Daily swim lessons in our 2 inground pools • 25 acre lake for boating & fishing • Horsemanship included • Basketball, Baseball, Street Hockey, Tennis, Soccer, Volleyball, Kickball, Newcomb, Archery & More • Treehouse with nature instruction • Ropes course with zip line & climbing wall • Arts and crafts, nature, music, talent shows and cooking • Weekly trips included: baseball games, bowling, roller skating, blueberry farm • Door-to-door transportation

Campground Location Waterford-Blue Anchor Road (App. 4 miles from Berlin Circle) Waterford • www.greattimesdaycamp.com

609.567.2166

Sunday, March 14, 2010—1:00PM to 3:30PM Sunday, April 18, 2010—1:00PM to 3:30PM Sunday, May 16, 2010—1:00PM to 3:30PM

The American Academy of ily Pediatric Dentists recommends m a F r establishing a “Dental Home” u o n i for your child by their o J e 1st Birthday om

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• Commitment to children’s dental care for over 30 years • Treating infants thru adolescents • Focus on prevention education • Orthodontist on staff* • Flexible hours at two locations CHECK OUT MOMMY MORNINGS!

Wed., Feb. 24th: 10am-11am FREE Monthly seminar on infant oral health for pregnant moms, new moms, and moms trying to conceive. For more info visit our website.

W. Deptford Office

Your Child’s Very Own Dentist

Watching your child grow is an amazing process. However, some children are challenged by injuries, illnesses or birth defects. SJH Kids RehabCare helps families in our region by treating and managing pediatric disorders like brachial plexus injuries, cerebral palsy, autism, speech/swallowing disorders and developmental delays.

Our team of experts provides a variety of therapies including occupational, physical and speech therapy services. For more information call 856-507-8585.

GREGORY D. McGANN, D.M.D. PAUL A. SIMONS, D.D.S. STACEY A. YANDOLI, D.M.D. GEORGE T. LYNCH IV, D.M.D. *JANINE R. TRINDADE, D.M.D. JUDITH SAMSELSKI, D.M.D. PEDIATRIC DENTISTRY - A PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION

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2 February 2010

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publisher’s note

February 2010

Table of Contents pg. 18 Choosing the Perfect Preschool

mom 2 mom 8 Pros and Cons for Parents of Twins 10 10 Special Ways to say I Love You

moms R women 2 13 Understanding Uterine Fibroids 14 Date Night Special 16 Fitness and Health Tips to Become the Biggest Loser at Home 17 Moody Mamas: The Answer to Boring Maternity Wear

know 2 grow 21 Make an Impression with Thoughtful Thank You Notes

features 28 Summer Camp Guide

also in this issue 3 5 6 11 15 23 24 25 26 27 33 34 35

publisher’s note nana’s 2 sense life sentences just born chick lit business spotlight business spotlight her story green mama her story book review resource guide things 2 do

www.southjerseymom.com

Dear Readers, e live in a performance based world. There are pressures put on moms to be everything to everyone and “perform” at all times. This type of pressure causes anxiety in us that you may or may not be aware of. We constantly feel like we should be spending more time with our children, keeping our house cleaner, giving our spouses more attention or working longer hours.

This anxiety usually gets taken out on those we care about most—our family— the ones we are supposed to treat with kindness and love. Since February is the month best known for love, I say, let’s make a vow to change that.

It’s time to be truthful and to stop trying to be more than you are. While most moms feel like they give, give, give and don’t get anything in return, that’s actually how it should be. Truly loving and giving of yourself means doing something without expecting anything in return.

(Perhaps this is a lesson better suited for men? ha, ha, ha)

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Seriously though, we are all guilty of this; giving, and expecting a return. I’m not saying moms are selfish at all. They put everyone else’s needs before their own. But...are we really giving them what they need? Or just what we want to give them? Our families want our hearts, our time, a listening ear. They don’t need toys, fancy cars or empty promises; they need our love.

Free yourself from the anxiety of performing by accepting that you are only one person. You cannot be all things to all people, but what you can be is present in the lives of your children and spouse. This doesn’t cost any money, and means way more than any good deed you could do.

Don’t be condemned by what you can’t do, embrace what you are in control of and make a difference.

Your Friend and Fellow MOM,

February 2010 | 3

Don’t Miss the 2010

South Jersey MOM Conference for Parents

Q.

Why should YOU attend the South Jersey MOM Conference for Parents?

A.

Because being the best parent you can be is important to you...and you face many challenges.

You have a lot of questions about parenting.

Get the answers at the South Jersey MOM Conference for Parents YOU’LL LEARN HOW TO: • make great meals in minutes • overcome power struggles with your children • balance family, work and personal time • look fabulous, fashionable AND functional • get fit in a flash • promote positive self esteem in your children • balance family finances • parent special needs children • parent during and after divorce ...and much more!

For more information and to register online visit

www.sjmomparentconference.com For exhibit/sponsor info contact Adrienne Richardson at 856.692.MOMS or adrienne@southjerseymom.com

More expert speakers announced next month!

REGISTER NOW TO ACCESS: • 10+ sessions • 15+ expert speakers • 50+ local vendors that serve parents • Amazing prizes and FREE massage!

REGISTER EARLY AND SAVE! Register by March 5th for a Full Conference Pass for only $99!

Seats are limited!

SPECIAL MORNING SPEAKER: HOW BEING A BAD MOM BECAME A BOOK DEAL WITH LOCAL AUTHOR VICKI GLEMBOCKI Vicki Glembocki, who appeared on Oprah as one of “the boldest moms in the country,” is the author of the memoir The Second Nine Months: One Woman Tells the Real Truth About Becoming a Mom. Finally. She’s an awardwinning magazine writer and essayist, a writer-at-large for Philadelphia Magazine, a columnist for Reader’s Digest, and a blogger (a.k.a. “Blunt Force Mama” at vickiglembocki.blogspot.com). Her articles have appeared in many publications including Playboy, Ladies Home Journal, Parents, Women’s Health, More, and Fit Pregnancy. She lives in Westmont, NJ, with her very patient husband, Thad, and her daughters, Blair, 4, and Drew, 2.

INTERESTED IN SPONSORING THIS EVENT OR BEING A VENDOR? Visit www.sjmomparentconference.com for more details or contact Adrienne Richardson at 856.692.MOMS or adrienne@southjerseymom.com.

February

MOM 2010

Publisher/Editor: Adrienne Richardson adrienne@southjerseymom.com Editorial Associate: Jeanette Giza jgiza@southjerseymom.com Advertising Inquiries: Orin Jespersen • 856.690.5565 orin@southjerseymom.com Dianne Holland • 856.278.6119 dianne@southjerseymom.com Elaine Petrosino-Roehm • 856.404.3127 elaine@southjerseymom.com General Advertising Info: ads@southjerseymom.com Copy Editor: Gaily Von Schlichting Production Manager: Lisa Celfo lisa@southjerseymom.com Communications Manager: Esther Donnelly esther@southjerseymom.com Photographer: Lisa Ward Photography www.lisawardphotography.com Contributing Writers: Rebekah Bailey, Eileen Bishop, Katie DeVito, Blythe Lipman, Fran LoBiondo, Dr. Azieb Lofton, Keri Mikulski, Renee Taylor Negin, Gwen Recinto, Kathryn Ross, Sheila Taney, Andrew Yankowitz

Revival

he realization that I am a fiftyplus grandma, and single for over 10 years, recently dropped me into a bit of a rut… the “I’ll probably be alone forever” rut. Not too long ago, I still had tons of energy, interests and goals, but never enough time for my pursuits. Now that I finally decided to “make” time, I seem to run short of energy and long on minor physical afflictions just irritating enough to squelch my motivation.

And then, my granddaughter came to stay with me; my 19 year old granddaughter. During one of our shopping outings, we gathered armloads of clothes, guessing each other’s styles, and crammed them and us into a single fitting room. As we donned and doffed the selections and the expressions on our faces, she suggested, “break out of your lane, Grandma. You can wear cuter clothes.” What a boost to my ego that simple comment was!

In addition to fashion advice, we talk about relationships: dos and don’ts, questions and answers about why guys act the way they do, etc. Sounds odd; I should be the wiser about such things. But she has learned a lot more in her 19 years than I knew at 19. So I listen, and then talk.

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We talk about how technology plays a huge role in relationships today; how “myspace” led to “facebook,” then “twitter” and “skype.” We agree that “friends with benefits” and other dating fads are surely created by men, for men. I was relieved to hear that most young folks she knows do not follow the latest fads. We also decided that guys and gals and love’s basic rules have really not changed much. This, and the fact that I am conversing on such a topic with my granddaughter, makes me feel revived, young again.

I am surrounded by loving family, friends and certainly have plenty to keep me busy. But I do miss having someone in my life, for me. I miss selecting a special gift for “my” Valentine. There are times I look in the mirror and don’t feel pretty anymore. Then I take a step back to see myself, as the important people in my life see me, and I see the real me; beautiful for who I am and certainly not alone.

Rock the rut,

Nana Jean Nana Jean is a South Jersey grandmother with two daughters and six grandchildren. Enjoy her stories about her 38+ years as a mom and 19 years as a grandmother as she shares her experiences and lessons learned with lots of laughs and tears along the way.

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On the COVER

“Cutest Kid in Town” winner: Kaiyana, age 6, is in kindergarten and lives in Newtonville. She likes to play with her family, enjoys going to Chuck E. Cheese, coloring, playing various gaming systems and loves running and play sports.Photo by Lisa Ward Photography.

February 2010 | 5

life sentences

A Gut-Wrenching Trip to the Doctor

was on my way to the gastroenterologist, an appointment I was dreading, when I realized I must have whizzed right past his office.

Why not just keep driving? I asked myself. Tear off the rear-view mirror. You are going to hit the west coast eventually, and California has lots of alternative medicine that does not invade your restricted areas. Why do you think they call them “privates?”

That was just my inner brat talking. I was going to have that unpleasant test because my HMO advised me to, having reached the age where I guess everyone starts growing warts somewhere. I was trying to turn around when I had an unfortunate incident involving my car and a flatbed truck trailer.

No one was injured; it was just what is commonly called a “fender bender,” only it was more of a fender scratcher, and a sort of shaving down of my wheel cover.

After we stood out in a raw and rainy evening while the trooper checked our information, she told me it likely would be filed under “incident,” and let me go.

As luck would have it, the doctor was still in, and told me to come on down. I arrived wet and shaking, only to be told that indeed I did need to have this test because I had a history of unwanted growths, although I like to think that those were just that – history. The doctor went over all of the risks of the procedure, including several life-changing possibilities and… although it’s rare… death.

And as worrisome as those rare calamities are, the preparation for the test is just as gruesome as I feared – fasting, washing, rinsing and wringing out body parts I would like to forget that I own.

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6 | February 2010

I wanted badly to follow the example of my mother, age 85, who always refused the test on the grounds that “I’m old enough to choose how I want to die, and it’s not from a punctured bowel.” But alas, even Mom has had the test, which she casually referred to as a colostomy, and said it was no big deal.

I was still wound up about the “incident” when I arrived home, but my husband was calm. “Don’t sweat it,” he said.

“You have a lot to deal with, and sometimes accidents happen.”

Did I mention it was our anniversary?

What a gift it was to hear just what I needed to hear from my husband, reminding me of what brought us together all those years ago: unwavering support when, in another unforeseen incident, I totaled my car.

On my way to work one icy winter morning, a dog trotted into the road and I

struck him, a telephone pole and a tree on the other side of the road. With the help of my girlfriend’s brother, who’d just gotten out

By Fran LoBiondo of law school, I fought the tickets in court and won. The next day was Valentine’s Day and when I called to thank him, he asked me out on a date.

Isn’t it romantic? Twenty-four years, and he’s still the one who helps me when things go wrong.

A diamond may be forever, but a man who will have your fender botoxed is the gem a woman really wants.

Fran LoBiondo of Vineland has children in grade school, high school and college. A Purdue University graduate with a degree in Journalism, she has written about parenting, food and fun for 25 yrs.

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Heart of the Home Specialist Matteo Family Kitchens & Flooring, Inc. When it comes to flooring, we’ve got you covered!

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February 2010 | 7

mom 2 mom

does his thing. Another option: the occasional day out of school. One mom pulls each twin out one day a month so they can have a full day of one-on-one attention.

Says one mom, “It’s good for both of us to have that. Parents need to be able to connect with each of their children, and kids have time in their parents’ spotlight.”

Identity. With twins, particularly samegendered twins, people tend to group them together as one. While the kids will eventually find ways to assert their individuality on their own, it’s important that parents help twins establish this at a young age.

Dressing them the same might be cute, but letting them choose their own style of dress will help them to show the world who they are as individuals. Referring to them by name, rather than as “the twins,” is another way to remember that they are, indeed, two different people.

Some BENEFITS of raising twins: Sharing. Twins learn how to share at a very early age. From fetuses sharing a womb to infants sharing their mother’s arms to toddlers sharing building blocks, twins almost have a built-in ability to share.

Playmates. What could be better than having someone to play with every day?

Separation. Though separation anxiety is a natural stage for all kids, having someone by your side to encounter a new experience makes it a lot less frightening. With younger twins, being left home with a new babysitter or entering a preschool class or activity is easier because they have familiarity with them in the form of their twin.

aising two kids can be tough, any parent will agree. Parents raising twins face both challenges and benefits that those raising single-birth children do not.

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Some CHALLENGES of raising twins: Planning. Taking twins anywhere requires a bit of extra work. Parents need to make sure they have enough of everything they need for two—diapers, clothing, snacks and toys. They need to keep track of both children, even when they run in opposite directions.

Routine. Having a routine in place makes life with twins much easier. One important piece of advice from Phil Green of 8 | February 2010

Vineland, dad of teenage boy/girl twins: “What you do for one, do for both. Feed them, dress them, bathe them and put them to bed, all at the same time.

Otherwise you’ll find that when one is done, the other is just beginning and the daily tasks never end.”

One-on-one time. With single children, a parent can often find time for an older child when a younger sibling is in bed, or with a younger one when the older one is at school. With twins, there isn’t always an easy way to make it work. One solution might be to have them in separate activities so the non-participating child can hang out with mom or dad while the other

One-for-two. Though many parents of single kids think that having twins is way more work than doing for, say three kids of different ages, in reality the workload is lessened. Parents of twins face one bath time, one bed time, one terrible twos (or terrifying threes), one potty training, one first day of kindergarten, one adolescence and one (long) period of teenage angst.

As long as kids are kids, parents will face difficulties and dilemmas raising them.

For parents who find themselves wishing they had twins, refer to the list of challenges and smile at your single fortune.

For those with twins who wonder at the ease of raising “just one” kid, read the second list and count your blessings!

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February 2010 | 9

ten special ways to say i love you

By Eileen Bishop

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asked a lot of parents for help on this one. Advice ran the gamut, from not putting them up for adoption to celebrating the anniversary of their birthday every month (yes, you read it right, every month!). I think they deserve mention, but are probably too far off the spectrum in either direction to be included in a Top Ten List.

When I asked my four-year-old daughter Cat what I could do to show her I love her, her reply was “Let me wear lipstick when I ask nicely.” I think more often than not, it really is that easy!

ten nine eight seven six

Take them out for ice cream and let them stay up really late.

Give them enough ice cream late enough in the evening and a latenight bedtime will be a given!

Make time for some one-on-one…go to lunch or to the park and just spend time together. With no one else there to interrupt, your child gets your undivided attention.

Make and frame a Top Ten List of why they are the greatest kids ever. What a boost in self-esteem!

Volunteer at their school, coach their sports team, or participate in a scouting program together. None of these take up too much time but it will give your kids a chance to feel special, to show you off to their friends and, even better, to show off their abilities to you.

Pull out old pictures or videos of your kids from years gone by and narrate as you go through them. You will love the looks on their faces when you know they are thinking, “Gee, I was so darn cute!”

10 | February 2010

Tell them as often (and as loudly) when they do something right as when they do something wrong. Something as simple as putting on a shirt with the tag in the back should be met with praise for little ones. Nothing compares to a look of pride on a kid’s face!

five four

Show your kids how much you love your spouse; do not be afraid to hold hands, give hello and good-bye kisses or say “I love you” in front of your kids. Not only will it make them feel more secure, but will help mold them into adults who are not afraid to show emotion.

Set limits and be consistent. It’s definitely easier in theory, but it makes kids feel safe to know that someone is in charge. This can be hard to believe when they are fighting against it, for sure.

It’s hard work and it’s not going to win you the Favorite Parent award, but it’s worth the angst…think of it as a long-term CD; pay now and get the return later!

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Add a note to your child’s lunchbox to make him or her smile. Nothing embarrassing, just a little something to let them know they are in your thoughts and heart. “Hope your day is going great!” or “You make me proud to be your mom” is all it takes to reassure children they are loved (especially if it was a hard morning getting out the door to the bus stop!)

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Ask for your child’s best and when it’s put forth, even if she or he fails, be there to pick them up so they can try again.

So happy Valentine’s Day, South Jersey moms! May it be filled with hugs, kisses and chocolate.

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Mitten Keepers Tired of lost mittens? Mitten Keepers are the answer. A flashback to grandma’s old mitten strings, only better and more stylish. Easy to use and adjustable to grow with child.

Clip one mitten on one end and pass the strap through the jacket sleeves then clip the other mitten on the other end.

Get 10% off, use coupon code SOJERSEY. $10.99, www.babymajors.com

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DigNI-tee This cozy, lightweight and 100% cotton designer hospital gown is lined with plastic snaps down the sides and arms for easy access while providing all the necessary coverage. The DigNi-tee comes in standard sizes and various colors. Machine washable, infinitely reusable. $30, www.ivwear.com

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Clean Well Say goodbye to germs, naturally. A patented blend of essential plant oils lab-proven to kill 99.99% of germs. This alcohol free sanitizer and antibacterial hand soap combats germs naturally, imitating nature’s own germ fighting technique. All natural.

Prices vary, various retailers or www.cleanwelltoday.com

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Relastin The first and only clinically proven product to increase the production of elastin, a natural protein that gives skin elasticity.

Relastin penetrates the skin to work with the cells to promote the formation of elastin, which the body ceases producing at puberty. $69.99 and up, www.relastin.com

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Fat Chance by Julie Hadden A stay-at-home moms’ journey from Biggest Loser to Biggest winner. With her charm, likeability and contagious sense of humor, Julie offers readers of all shapes and sizes an intimate portrayal of a once-fat woman who sweated and slogged her way toward thin. Combined with workout plans, some of her favorite healthy recipes and behind-the-scenes details from the show. $22, available where books are sold

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Konami Video Games Frogger returns for Nintendo Wiiware and Playstation. The timeless arcade game with the latest iteration delivers the dodge-and-run gameplay. Ant Nation, the beloved childhood pastime of lazy Sundays spent with a magnifying glass and an ant farm finally arrives on the Nintendo DS and Wii in this challenging and addictive strategy simulation that trains your ant minions! DRiiFT Mania is the ultimate top-down multiplayer racing experience! Challenge your friends in fast and exciting races or play in the totally crazy game modes! $4.99, available for download on Nintendo WiiWare

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Bed Buddy Hand/Feet Warmers Moist heat thermotherapy for soothing comfort. Containing 100% natural materials, not only do they provide relief from aches and pains, but are lightly fragrances with aromatherapy including eucalyptus to revitalize, clove to comfort and cinnamon to calm. $24.99, available at Rite Aid or www.carex.com

www.southjerseymom.com

just born

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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!

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February 2010 | 11

Adam D. Hauser, M.D. Board Certified Child & Adolescent Psychiatrist Private Practice Offering Families Personalized and Individualized Care To Promote Lasting Growth and Change Brown University Medical School and Harvard University Medical School Graduate

By Appointment

1930 Marlton Pike East • Suite D-25 Cherry Hill, New Jersey 08003 Office: 856.983.0800 12 | February 2010

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U

terine fibroids, often called fibromyomas, leiomyomas or myomas, are noncancerous, muscular tumors that develop within the uterine walls. Fibroids usually occur during a woman’s childbearing years and can often go unnoticed. Though three out of five women may develop fibroids in their lifetime, most fibroids rarely develop into cancer and can be effectively treated through hormone therapy or surgery.

Doctors do not know the cause of uterine fibroids, but research and clinical experience point to several factors: Genetic Alterations. Many fibroids contain alterations in genes that code for uterine muscle cells.

Hormones. Estrogen and progesterone, two hormones that stimulate development of the uterine lining in preparation for pregnancy, appear to promote the growth of fibroids.

Other Chemicals. Substances that help the body maintain tissues, such as insulin-like growth-factor, may affect fibroid growth.

Researchers believe that additional factors may lead to the development of fibroids as well: Obesity. Some studies suggest that obese women are at higher risk for fibroids, but other studies show no link.

Still, it’s always a good idea to maintain a healthy weight.

Oral Contraceptives. So far, strong

data exists showing women who take oral contraceptives are at lower risk for fibroids. This is generally true for all women, except for those who began using oral contraceptives between ages 13 and 16.

Pregnancy and Childbirth. Current research suggests pregnancy and childbirth seem to have a protective effect against the growth of fibroids.

Ethnicity. Some studies show AfricanAmerican women at a higher risk for fibroids than Caucasian women – but fibroids do not spare any ethnic group!

How can I tell if I have uterine fibroids?

Although most fibroids are nonthreatening, symptoms can include: pelvic pressure or abdominal fullness (gas) bleeding between periods and/or heavy menstrual bleeding (bleeding to anemia) frequent urination difficulty with bowel movements pain during intercourse pressure in the lower abdomen or pain in the lower back.

How can I be tested for fibroids?

Your doctor can often detect any unusual masses in the uterus through your annual gynecological exam. Diagnosis of fibroids is often made through a transvaginal ultrasound or a pelvic ultrasound.

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Uterine Fibroids

Understanding

By Dr. Azieb Lofton What are my treatment options?

Treatments vary, depending on a patient’s age, overall health, severity of the symptoms and the type of fibroid. Some procedures involve medications. Others involve removing the fibroid tumors completely with specific instruments, or cutting off the blood supply to the fibroid, also known as Uterine Artery Embolization or UAE. A myomectomy, unlike a hysterectomy, can remove the fibroid without disturbing a woman’s fertility. However, the chance of more fibroids developing is likely with this procedure and can lead to additional scarring of the uterine walls.

Some women with severe fibroids opt to have a hysterectomy.

If you think you may have fibroids, talk to your OB/GYN and get a definitive diagnosis. If you do have fibroids, your doctor can guide you on the right path for effective treatment.

Azieb G. Lofton, D.O., is a member of the Kennedy University Hospital Medical Staff and is in practice with Kennedy OB/GYN Associates in Mullica Hill.

A Fellow of the American College of Osteopathic Obstetricians and Gynecologists, Lofton resides in Mullica Hill with her husband and two children.

She can be reached at (856) 223-1133.

Have Your Child Climb to New Heights!

• Dance • Karate • Gymnastics • Birthday Parties

Semester star ts February 1st

ages 4 mos. - 12yrs. www.southjerseymom.com

The Little Gym of Millville tlgmillvillenj@thelittlegym.com www.tlgmillvillenj.com • 856.765.5634 February 2010 | 13

D

o you miss the days of dating of your spouse? Days when you could spontaneously decide to catch a movie without planning it weeks in advance? When was the last time you spent some alone time with your partner?

What is stopping you?

You may be thinking, “children.”

There is just not enough time to go out with your spouse. Besides, by the time you hire a sitter, buy tickets to a show and have dinner, date night becomes a financial burden. As a result, many parents forfeit date nights, as well as alone time.

Date night, however, is important for the health of your relationship. In the business of life, it’s often hard to find time to even talk with your spouse, let alone time to have fun together. Including fun in your relationship is just as important as being able to discuss things that are happening with your children.

Micayla Weber, a West Deptford mom of a 1-year-old, says, “I believe date nights are important because they help keep the marriage strong. Most parents fall into a rut of just talking about the kids, so it’s nice to have a chance to have a real conversation about other important things.

It also just gives parents a much-needed break. Being a parent is a 24/7 job, and it’s very tiring, so it’s nice to get a break every once in a while.”

Do not let life get in the way of dating your spouse. Here are some tips for making date night a success: If you do not have family in the area to watch your children, try to swap date nights and babysitting with friends.

Take turns watching each other’s children so both couples can benefit from date nights.

Dates do not have to be extravagant outings. Take a walk in the park, have an at-home candlelight dinner for two, play a board game or watch a movie while snuggling on your couch.

Find a hobby that you can do together on date night or take a class together and discuss what you learned.

Go to a quiet restaurant where you will have time to talk and focus on each other.

Try to make date nights frequent. Once a week would be ideal, but if that does not work at first, start with every other week.

Make it a rule to be on your best behavior… no arguing or put-downs.

14 | February 2010

Date Night Special

By Rebekah Bailey This is a time to have fun and enjoy each other’s company. Without this time, couples grow apart. You may spend 20-30 years of your life raising your children, but spend 60-70 years married to your spouse. Once your children leave, you

will be left alone with your spouse, thinking, “now what?” Working on your relationship cannot be put on hold for two or three decades; start dating your spouse again this weekend!

Celebrating 15 Award-Winning Years!

Now Enrolling for Preschool Winter Sessions

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chick lit

Spend Valentine’s Day with some New Jersey Romances

By Keri Mikulski Lady of Scandal,

By Tina Gabrielle Sizzle Stick: Set in Regency-period London, ambitious and feisty Victoria Ashton is living as an anonymous stock market trader until a family enemy forces her to live as his mistress for a year; but a plan rooted in revenge soon blossoms into a scandalous passion.

In Over Her Head, By Judi Fennell Sizzle Stick: After marina owner and hydrophobic, Erica Peek, is forced into the ocean, Reel Tritrone, a rebellious second son of the ruler of the undersea kingdom, saves her and the two opposites set off together on an undersea adventure.

Retribution: Champion Chronicles: Book One,

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By M. Flagg Sizzle Stick: Take off with mystically enhanced vampire, Michael Malone, as he vows to protect his son, yearns to be in his lover’s arms and declares retribution, all while jeopardizing his own immortality in the process.

Dead Air, By Mary Kennedy Sizzle Stick: When psychologist Maggie Walsh moves to Florida to host a radio show, she finds murder, mayhem and a sexy detective.

More of the e-book type? Do not miss Penelope Marzec’s latest, The Company You Keep, available now at www.crescentmoonpress.com.

Keri Mikulski is the author of the upcoming Pretty Tough Series (Penguin/Razorbill), Screwball and its sequel, Change Up. Her first book in the Pretty Tough Series, FULL COURT PRESS, will be available in Winter 2011.

Keri lives at the Jersey shore with her husband and daughter.

Disclaimer: Occasionally, the columnist receives books from authors and publishers for the purpose of a review and/or recommendation. However, recommendations are based solely on South Jersey MOM’s audience and books that are sent directly to the columnist do not guarantee a recommendation.

February 2010 | 15

fitness and health tips to become the

BIGGEST LOSER

at home

By John Rowley

FITNESS TIPS:

MOVE MORE EVERY DAY – Make it a daily challenge to find more ways to move your body. Take the stairs over the elevator, walk your dog, take brief walks during lunch breaks, ride your bike to work – any small step goes a long way to improving your overall fitness.

MELT AWAY FAT WITH MUSCLE – Your metabolism is a direct reflection of your muscle mass to fat mass ratio. A good resistance training routine will supercharge your metabolism in just 90 minutes a week. Simply do three 30-minute sessions a week. Cardio is great for overall health and burns fat, but resistance training builds muscle and muscle burns calories, even at rest, hence supercharging your metabolism.

BE SMART, WORK YOUR HEART – There are many conflicting opinions on cardio vascular exercise and a study to back up each of them. Some say do very short, very intense interval training and others endorse going slower, but for a longer time period.

People get great results doing both.

The best form of cardio is the form you will do on a consistent basis. Getting your heart rate into the fat burning zone is important, and the best way to judge this is to exercise hard enough so that you can barely carry on a conversation. In other words, you can speak but just barely, but without breathing so hard that you are gasping for air in order to finish a sentence.

illions of people watch NBC’s The Biggest Loser, wondering how they, too, can take steps in the right direction to change their lives forever. Whether your goal is to lose 100 pounds or the last stubborn five, you do not have to be on TV to find solid trainers and fitness advice to start losing weight for good.

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consume. Your caloric intake must not exceed the amount you normally burn, since any excess would then be converted to stored energy and into fats.

PUT SOMETHING GREEN ON YOUR PLATE – If you do not like counting calories, you will like this. Eat proteins and green vegetables and avoid all starchy carbohydrates, such as bread, cake, potatoes, rice, etc. Your body will learn to burn fat for energy instead of carbohydrates and you will become a lean, mean fat burning machine without counting calories. Once a week, have a victory meal or victory day when you eat whatever you want.

DRINK WATER – Drinking water does several things; it keeps you hydrated, it helps flush your body of fat and toxins and it helps curb your appetite. You should be drinking at least half your body weight in ounces of water each day.

SET A REALISTIC GOAL – Weight loss and fitness goals should be three things: realistic, believable and exciting. Despite what is seen on TV, losing more than two pounds a week can make permanent weight loss difficult. Set a steady but realistic goal and reward yourself for reaching milestones along the way. Challenge yourself and take everything one day at a time toward an overall goal of a healthier life. The key is to change your lifestyle to enhance your life.

CONSISTENCY IS KEY – Success is an endeavor of consistency. Consistency requires discipline to do the things today that you do not necessarily want to do, so you can do the things you dream of doing tomorrow!

John Rowley is a fitness expert and best-selling author of the sensational hit “Climb Your Ladder of Success Without Running Out of Gas”, which offers health and fitness tips to help you lead a healthier life. Rowley is also the Director of Fitness and Wellness of The American Institute of Healthcare & Fitness.

HEALTH AND DIET TIPS:

CALORIC INTAKE IS IMPORTANT – This is simple math. Burn more than you

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illions of moms-to-be across America will be able to follow in the footsteps of trend-setting celebrity moms Heidi Klum, Jessica Alba, Ashlee Simpson, Tori Spelling & Laila Ali who are all fans of the ultra-popular, high-fashion maternity line.

Moody Mamas is the brainchild of two fashion-savvy young women in their 20’s, Marta Abrams and Elise Rosemarin. Marta and Elise are single and have never had children – admittedly an unlikely pair to design a maternity line – which is precisely why they have been so successful in throwing out the rulebook by creating a bold, daring “antimaternity line� that has injected style and flair back into the lives of expectant moms.

The BRAVO channel’s Project Runway winner and designer Christian Siriano designs a high-end collection of the line called Fierce Mamas.

Moody Mamas is available at hundreds of boutiques and other major retailers, including Nordstrom.com and Target.com. For more information, visit www.MoodyMamas.com.

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February 2010 | 17

It’s Time To Start Shopping for the Perfect Preschool

By Blythe Lipman hoosing the perfect preschool for your toddler is one of the scariest things any new parent has to face.

Not only does the care have to be the best, but all aspects of the school have to make you feel comfortable.

When you drop off your child each morning, you want to leave feeling comfortable that he or she will be receiving the love, nurturing and care they need.

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The following checklist should help make your decision easier.

PRE-SCHOOL INTERVIEW CHECKLIST Does the director speak to you when you call for an appointment?

Yes____ No____ Are you kept waiting more than a few minutes when you arrive?

Yes____ No____ Does the director answer all your questions?

Yes____ No____ Is the Mission Statement posted?

Yes____ No____ Does he/she give you a booklet with school information?

Yes____ No____ Is the director willing to supply you with parent references?

Yes____ No____ Does the preschool look and smell clean? Yes____ No____ Is the preschool licensed, and is the license posted?

Yes____ No____ Do they hire experienced teachers and do background checks?

Yes____ No____ THE ROOMS Are they clean?

Yes____ Are the electric outlets covered and are there childproof locks on the cabinets?

Yes____ Are the cleaning products locked up?

Yes____ Is there anything dangerousin plain view?

Yes___ Are the counters and diaper changing areas clean and uncluttered?

Yes____ Are there latex gloves available?

Yes____ Is there a crib or mat available for each child?

Yes____ Is everything in good condition?

Yes____

No____ No_____ No____ No___ No____ No____ No____ No____

(Look for loose screws or wobbly furniture)

Is there enough equipment available for each child? (high chairs, bouncys, etc.) and is it in good condition?

Yes____ No____ 18 | February 2010

Are the toys and equipment age appropriate?

Is there a dirty toy and clothes bin?

Are the toys cleaned with bleach water each day?

Is there happy music playing in the room or lullabies if it is nap-time?

Is there a sign posted fire door?

Does the room look like a place that your child could have fun, explore and blossom?

Yes____ No____ Yes____ No____ Yes____ No____ Yes____ No____ Yes____ No____

Yes____ No____

STAFF Is the teacher/child ratio appropriate?

Yes____ No____ Do the same caregivers take care of the children each day?

Yes____ No____ Do they have CPR, First Aid Certification and know the Heimlich maneuver?

Yes____ No____ Are the caregivers friendly and eager to tell you about themselves and the program and want to know about your child?

Yes____ No____ Are the caregivers warm and responsive to your child during the visit?

Yes____ No____ Do they tell you about the daily activities?

Yes____ No____ Do specialists come in for music, movement, etc.?

Yes____ No____ Do they send home daily reports?

Yes____ No____ Do they use the same substitutes all the time?

Yes____ No____ What is the illness policy?

How can you communicate with the teacher or director?

What are their visiting rules?

What is the policy for drop-off and pick-up by you or someone else?

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BLYTHE’S FINAL THOUGHTS: 1. If you like the preschool, drop in unannounced and ask any unanswered questions.

2. If you get the cold shoulder or you feel as if they are too busy and you are unimportant……FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL. 3. If the staff seems unhappy……FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL. 4. Once your child is enrolled, if you are told you can’t visit at any time…….FIND ANOTHER PRESCHOOL. 5. Would you feel good leaving your child at this preschool each day?

If you feel great about the preschool, sign the papers. But if something feels amiss, even if you can’t figure out what it is, go with your gut feeling, as it is usually right! Above all, you want to be able to enjoy watching your child blossom in his/her new environment and feel good that you made the right decision.

Blythe Lipman is the president of Baby Instructions. She is passionate about babies, toddlers and their parents. After working in the field for over twenty-five years, she wrote her second award-winning book, MORE…HELP! MY BABY CAME WITHOUT INSTRUCTIONS which is available at www.babyinstructions.com. You can hear Blythe’s weekly radio show on Mondays, 11am EST @ www.toginet.com Blythe is available for in-home, video and telephone consultations.

www.southjerseymom.com

Steps to Follow When Choosing a Private School

By Rebecca B. Stiegel, Ed.D., The King's Christian School

Step 1: Determine what type of school is the best fit for your child. Consider their special gifts and talents.

Step 2: Research the school carefully that you are considering. Check out their website, talk with friends, parents and educators about the school.

Step 3: Visit the school with your children when school is in session. What is the climate or culture of the school?

Step 4: Match your child's interest with the school that best fits your child. Don't be hesitant to ask about scholarships and financial aid.

February 2010 | 19

The King’s Christian School Established 1946

Others Before Self, Christ Above All — Educating & Equipping servant leaders to impact the world • 13 acre campus in Cherry Hill • Parent-sponsored, non-denominational, college prepatory academics • Test scores well above national norms • Accredited by the ACSI and MSACS • Honors and advanced placement programs • Flexible partnership with home school parents • I-20 approved • ESL support programs for international students • Timothy Program for students with learning differences

Voted Best of Philly Top 50 s Private School 09 20 & 05 20

Your Child’s Future Is Worth Enrolling NOW!

OPEN HOUSE Wednesday, February 17th 11:00 am

5 Carnegie Plaza • Cherry Hill, NJ • 856.489.6724 • www.tkcs.org

The Early Years Matter Private Early Childhood Education For 6 Weeks To 8 Years

Come let your child explore the wonder of learning, where they will create, discover and make new friends, nurtured by teachers degreed in early childhood education and a curriculum designed for their age and their imagination.

Enroll Today!

Moorestown Friends School

Our college preparatory program runs seamlessly from Preschool (age 3) – Grade 12.

Learn more about a transformational education for your child at an upcoming Open House: Sunday, January 24, 2 p.m.

Love Of Learning ... Begins Here

®

Thursday, February 18, 7 p.m. (Middle/Upper School only) Saturday, February 20, 10 a.m. (Lower School only) For more information, call (856) 235-2900, e-mail admiss@mfriends.org or visit mfriends.org.

3 year olds through 12th grade

20 | February 2010

110 E. Main St. Moorestown, NJ 08057

Locations IN PA & NJ

1-877-MALVERN

Visit malvernschool.com for NAEYC accredited schools Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

know 2 grow

Make an impression with thoughtful

thank you notes H

andwritten thank you notes are thoughtful and appreciated. To some, these notes are considered a lost art; to others, a dreaded chore. No matter how you feel about them, they are, at some point, a must.

Get Your Note-Taking Skills Up To Par: Send thank you notes — not emails.

To really make your message stand out, take the time to write a hand-written note instead of an email. For example, send a thank you note if you receive a gift after you have been a houseguest in someone’s home and after someone has done a particular favor for you. In the workplace, write a thank you note after a job interview, after a promotion or pay raise, after a business lunch, dinner or party. Remember to write a note after someone has offered you his or her time and advice or after someone has written you a reference letter.

Write from the heart. First, make sure you spell the recipient’s name correctly in the salutation. Then, thank them for the gift, hospitality or kindness and include something about how you have used or

enjoyed the gift. You may want to incorporate additional information, but be sure to include a strong closing sentence or paragraph. For example, reference when you will talk to him/her: “Looking forward to seeing you this summer. Thanks again for your generosity!� Depending on the recipient, finish your note with something fun and information such as “Love,� “Love from,� or “Best Wishes.�

In a more formal thank you letter or note, start by saying thank you and reference the interview, pay raise, promotion, event or other occasion that you are writing about. Include something specific about how they have helped you, and be sincere.

Depending on the recipient, end your note with something such as “Sincerely.�

Be prompt. Send your thank you note as soon as possible. Generally, notes should be sent within a week of receipt of the gift or gesture. However, there are exceptions.

For example, notes for hospital gifts should be sent as soon as the patient is well enough to send them. Wedding thank you notes should be sent within three months of

We illuminate the Hearts and Minds of Children Classroom time includes a mix of teacher-directed as well as independent learning center activities.

Call for a tour today and see if our center is the right place for your child.

We offer Summer Camp and Camp Explorer for school age children through 6th grade!

Shining Lights Preschool and Daycare Center 1720 Springdale Road • Cherry Hill, NJ 08003 Open 5 days a week from 7am-6pm www.shininglightsonline.org

www.southjerseymom.com

Small class sizes Full and half day programs for children ages 2 1/2 through 5 years Low student/teacher ratios Great academic program with Biblical values Developmentally appropriate activities Field trips State licensed ACSI Accredited

By Gwen Recinto

receiving the gift. Since this can be a lot for a newly married couple, it makes sense to send notes out as soon as gifts are received; often, wedding gifts are sent prior to the wedding.

Be prepared. You never know when you will need to say thank you. And, since they should be sent promptly, be sure you have a package of blank cards handy for when you need them. Keep a pack at the office and at home so you will always be ready.

And, you may want to consider having monogrammed cards made with your initials or full name.

Set a good example. Get your children in the habit of writing thank you notes at a young age. The easiest way to do this, is to help them write thank you cards to people who give them birthday gifts.

Gwen Recinto is a writer and fitness instructor from Marlton. Her blog, AllThingsGwen.com encourages people to “live the life� and includes articles about inspiration, family, life, health and fitness.

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February 2010 | 21

The Center for Autism Research at The Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia is looking for participants for a research study focusing on early brain development.

22 | February 2010

Who are we looking for?

• Infant siblings of typically developing children • Infant siblings of children with autism

Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

By Katie DeVito

amily-oriented and child-friendly Armstrong Pediatric Dental in Moorestown wants you to feel right at home from the moment you enter their Victorian-style office, as if you are walking into your living room. The patient rooms are adorned with child-friendly themed wallpaper.

Pediatric dentistry requires extensive training beyond the basics of general dentistry. And, while the practice is geared mainly towards pediatric dentistry, Dr. Susan Armstrong also treats individuals with special needs or developmental disabilities, another area not all general dental practices are equipped to treat.

The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends that babies have their first oral exam within six months to one year from the eruption of their first tooth (no later than the baby’s first birth-

F

day). This first visit gives parents and the dentist the opportunity to talk about diet concerns, dental hygiene, family history, etc., in order to prepare for the future oral care of their children. Armstrong Pediatric Dental wants to provide a dental home to children early on in order to promote good oral care.

The staff at Armstrong Pediatric Dental receives a tremendous amount of joy from helping children, individuals with special needs or disabilities, parents and caregivers. Armstrong’s goal is to equip parents with information needed to set their child up for dental success—healthy teeth and a happy smile.

February is Oral Health Month and Dr. Armstrong is participating in “Give Kids a Smile,” a national program set forth by the American Dental Association. This program allows dentists to volunteer their time

business spotlight

Give Kids a SMILE for Oral Health Month

to help children who may not receive the basic oral care they need, due to lack of insurance, access to care or other reasons.

There is a strong connection between the medical and dental community, as many early disease processes can start with poor dental health.

The “Give Kids a Smile” program is held all over the country during the month of February to bring awareness to children’s oral health. Armstrong participated in Burlington County Community College’s program last year.

Contact your new “Home Away From Home” today.

Armstrong Pediatric Dental, Dr. Susan Armstrong, DDS, 9 East Main Street, Moorestown. (856) 2350415, www.armstrongpediatricdental.com. To learn more about Give Kids a Smile, visit www.givekidsasmile.ada.org. For more information on the American Dental Association, visit www.ada.org.

watching your child’s

every week...

Dancing with Mommy Creative Dance 18 months to 3yrs old 3yrs to 5yrs old Hippity Hop Ages 4 to 6

All classes boys & girls!

Also available 6 yrs & older: Hip Hop Ballet Tap Jazz Musical Theatre

5360 Route 42 • Whitman Plaza Turnersville

856.227.9414 www.DANCEbyDiNote.com www.southjerseymom.com

February 2010 | 23

business spotlight

Sylvan Learning Center of Marlton Provides Personalized Instruction

ylvan Learning Center strives to create confident, independent students by discovering and targeting the causes of academic frustrations. Sylvan Learning Center has grown to become the leading provider of incenter and live, online tutoring at home to students of all ages and skill levels.

Only Sylvan Learning is able to offer a proven approach to learning, focused around Mastery Learning. Sylvan’s personal instructors ensure your child truly understands and masters a skill before moving on to the next level.

The Sylvan Learning Center experience begins with a personalized Sylvan Skills Assessment® to accurately pinpoint an individual student’s academic strengths and weaknesses. The results are then used to develop a personalized learning program

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that will fulfill that child’s specific academic needs.

Sylvan’s learning programs are individually customized to address your child’s specific skill gaps, so your child receives exactly the right help. Sylvan students receive individualized assistance in the areas of reading, writing, math, study skills, homework help and state test prep.

Sylvan also offers courses to help students prepare for the ACT and SAT college entrance exams.

“This past summer we enrolled our two sons, one in the SAT program and one in Academic Reading at Sylvan. We also enrolled our young daughter in Beginning Reading,” says Mrs. O from Cherry Hill.

“Our daughter would say, “Daddy, I can’t read.” Mentally, she had stopped and convinced herself of that. But by November

she was reading and actually enjoys it! She looks forward to going to Sylvan and is now reading signs and other things!”

Sylvan Learning Center of Marlton is privately owned and managed and is staffed with Directors of Education and teachers to meet the needs of students who attend to either catch up, keep up or get ahead.

For more information concerning how Sylvan Learning Center of Marlton can help inspire a love of academic discovery in your child, please contact the staff at 856.596.8455 or info@sylvanmarlton.com. Sylvan Learning Center is located at 11014 Lincoln Dr West, The Atriums at Greentree, Marlton. Visit them on the web at http://tutoring.sylvanlearning.com/centers/08053/ index.cfm

Compassionate, Quality OB/GYN Care Here in your community The Physicians of Southern New Jersey Obstetrics and Gynecology practice offers compassionate, quality obstetric services and gynecological care to women of all ages, right here in your community. And now we have a second location at 300 Lexington Road, Building B, Suite 200 in Woolwich Township. Appointments can be made at either location by calling 856-363-1210.

Hema Jonnalagadda, M.D.

Now Open in Woolwich Township!

Michael Geria, D.O., FACOOG

Physicians of Southern New Jersey

Obstetrics and Gynecology SJH Elmer Hospital Patient Care Center • 525 S. State Street, Suite 6, Elmer, NJ 08318 300 Lexington Road, Building B, Suite 200, Woolwich Township, NJ 08085

856-363-1210

24 | February 2010

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By Renee Taylor Negin anda Tswago was the picture of health. She was thirty-one years old, 113 pounds. As an infant, she developed a heart murmur, but she outgrew it by the time she was ten and was involved in all types of physical activities. She was a gymnast, a cheerleader and a dancer. As an adult, she worked as a lab technician in the medical field and educated herself about breast cancer and ovarian cancer. She never considered herself at risk for heart disease. After all, she was not overweight, did not have high blood pressure or diabetes. She did not smoke and she was physically active.

On February 20, 1999, just two weeks after giving birth to her second child, Tswago had a heart attack. She knew something was wrong, but she attributed her aching back to the after-effect of her epidural. As the evening progressed, she started feeling uneasy. She had not eaten, and her husband suggested food might help her feel better. But she continued feeling badly. She felt weak, sweaty, short of breath and disoriented. She felt strong pressure in her neck, which then moved to her chest.

Tswago says, ”It felt like an elephant was sitting on my chest.”

Her arms became heavy and fell to her sides. She knew something was seriously wrong and her mother-in-law, a nurse, got dressed and drove her to the hospital.

At the emergency room, Tswago spent a good deal of time waiting to be seen.

Because she did not fit the “typical” profile of a heart attack candidate, her symptoms were not taken seriously. She was finally admitted, given an IV and a heart monitor.

It was not until later that night that doctors told her she’d had a heart attack. She was transferred to another hospital to undergo emergency catheterization, and only became aware of the severity of her condition when she awoke to find her family crying as they surrounded her. The doctors told her family she might not make it through the night.

After more than two weeks in the hospital, Tswago was stable enough to go home. Two days later, she was back in the hospital again, suffering a second heart attack and a mini-stroke. This time, she was hospitalized for eight weeks.

Tswago now knows women often experience symptoms not normally attributed to heart attacks. She advises women to

mother and her sister had both suffered from heart disease; her sister died at age 45 from a massive heart attack. Had she known how important family history is in determining her risk for heart disease, she would have advocated for herself with her doctors; she would have insisted on seeing a cardiologist well before her heart attacks to make sure she was heart-healthy.

Today Tswago is an advocate for women’s heart health. She works with a number of organizations to bring awareness to the issues surrounding women’s heart health and to educate women on both the risk factors and the symptoms of heart disease and heart attack. She encourages her daughter, Alexxis, now ten, to be active and eat well, in order to minimize those risk factors that can be controlled. Tswago hopes her work will help others take care of themselves to prevent the same thing that happened to her from happening to them.

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www.southjerseymom.com

her story

Loving Her Heart, A Mom’s Story of Survival

listen to their bodies. “Your body will tell you when something isn’t right.” She says women are often so busy taking care of others—their families, their homes, their many obligations—they do not stop and You can contact Wamda Tswago at take time to take care of themselves. luvherheart@yahoo.com.

She also realizes now that if she had recognized her symptoms were those of a heart attack, she would have insisted on better and quicker treatment at the hospital. She knows every second counts in receiving treatment. She would have called 911 for an ambulance in order to begin treatment on the way to the hospital. Today, ten years after her heart attacks,Tswago’s heart is permanently damaged, fuOUR HRISTIAN USIC nctioning at only 40 percent. She has a AND EACHINGS defibrillator implanted in her chest to WWW WPOVFM ORG kick-start her heart if it fails. She will never be able work If you would like to spread the word about again.

The one risk your business, join our family of sponsors! factor that Tswago Call 856.696.9409 for more information failed to take into consideration was a family history of heart disease. Her

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.

February 2010 | 25

green mama

BEING idle

MICHAEL I. INZELBUCH Attorney-at-Law

By Sheila Taney, RN, MSN hen I was growing up, I remember sitting in my mom’s car while it was running. My most distinct memory was sitting in traffic on the AC Expressway to get to the shore. Now, realizing that I was ingesting all of that leaded fuel makes me cringe.

Fuels may have gotten “cleaner” but the idling continues. I am always amazed at the people who sit in their cars in the bank line while waiting for the drive-up teller. Why do they need to keep their car running for ten minutes? Do they think they will get to the front of the line faster?

I recently read that for every two minutes a car sits idling, it uses about the same amount of fuel it takes to go approximately one mile. So ten minutes of idling equals driving five miles, except that you are going nowhere. Same thing goes for turning your car on and letting it “warm-up” in the driveway on a cold winter morning. The only thing you are doing is increasing pollution and carbon emissions.

Currently, New Jersey has a regulation that limits idling to three minutes. But if you know you are going to be parked for more than 30 seconds, then turn off the engine. The next time you find yourself sitting in your car in the car rider line at school, or waiting for your child’s bus to arrive, turn your car off. By doing so, you will be keeping the air (and your lungs!) a little cleaner.

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• IEP Development • Due Process Hearings • Service Procurement Phone: (732) 905-0325 Fax: (732) 886-0806 E-Mail: Michaelinz@aol.com Lakewoodlaw555@aol.com Member J & Y Bars

Sheila Taney has two children and resides in Cherry Hill. She is passionate about teaching her children and others how they can participate in saving the environment.

Is your child the CUTEST KID IN TOWN? Every month, South Jersey MOM will feature a local child on the cover!

If you think you have the cutest kid in town, send a 4x6 photo and a $15 entry fee to P.O. Box 2413, Vineland, NJ 08362-2413.

If your child(ren) is/are selected, we will arrange a FREE professional photo shoot and they could be on our next cover for all your friends and family to see! Sorry, photos cannot be returned.

Parent Name: ____________________________________________________________ City:________________________________Phone: ______________________________ Child(ren) Name(s) & Birthdates: ____________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________

26 | February 2010

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her story

Local Woman is COMMITTED to Making a DIFFERENCE for Minority Moms

icky Blaine Miles of Cherry Hill is a mom of two, and knows all about overcoming negativity through diligence and commitment to community. Miles is a Rutgers graduate and was a member of the United States Army for four years on active duty. She has since been in the National Guard for more than 13 years.

Being African-American in America is, unfortunately, still attached to many stereotypes. Miles works hard to eradicate labels and change wrong thinking.

“Robert Frost’s poem, The Road Less Traveled describes my life: Two roads diverged in a wood, and I, I took the one less traveled by, And that has made all the difference... It explains why I work to rise above negative views and attitudes,” explains Miles.

The road less traveled is the road of involvement. It’s easy to stand by and wait for things to change.

“Impacting and improving the quality of the community improves the quality of life for my children,” says Miles.

Miles volunteers at St. Bartholomew’s Church, Kids & Co., Cherry Hill Diversity Committee, Mocha Moms and the Parent and Teacher Association (PTA).

Mocha Moms, Inc. is a national support group for mothers of color who have chosen not to work full-time outside of the home, in order to devote more time to their families.

Mocha Moms serves as an advocate group for those mothers and encourages the spirit of community activism within its membership. “Mochas” are a diverse group and provide sisterhood, support and encouragement to other minority moms. This type of support is desperately needed in the minority community.

“It was painful to discover one stereotype society has regarding minority, stay-at-home-moms; often, it’s assumed that they are uneducated, unemployable or underachievers,” Miles says. “Making a difference in the lives of our families isn’t as simple as one would presume.”

Miles faces daily challenges as a stay-at-home mom. She works each day to make the best decisions for her household, while providing support and encouragement for her children.

“It’s not always about how much you make or where you work.

It’s much more complex. The path to overall success can entail working at home and dedicating time towards improving overall

N

www.southjerseymom.com

conditions for ourselves, our children’s lives and our communities,” explains Miles.

The Parent Teacher Association (PTA) is one of the strongest and oldest child advocacy associations in America. As a member, Miles’ focus is Community Outreach, Legislation and increasing parental involvement.

The Emerging Minority Leaders (EML) program was initiated by the National PTA to help prepare minority parents and caregivers to assume leadership roles in their local communities and schools.

As a recent EML graduate, Miles gained insight from speakers like Reverend Jesse Jackson and PTA’s CEO, Byron Garrett. The NJPTA and EML chair helped Miles take the most beneficial step for her children and community.

“I went from being a leader to being a leader who advocates for more leaders! I encourage as many people as possible to use their talents to ‘be the change they want to see,’” says Miles.

Miles embraces her community and works to increase parental participation in the PTA, support minority moms and advocate for community participation.

“I want to help ensure diversity exists comfortably in our communities. I start as many conversations as possible about my belief that becoming involved and engaging our community members is the key to success.”

For more information about the South Jersey Chapter of Mocha Moms, visit www.njmochamoms.org or email njmochamoms@yahoo.com.

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February 2010 | 27

summer camp guide

Summers are Magical at Tall Pines Day Camp

By Andrew Yankowitz

I

n those lazy days of summer that make us long to be kids again, who can forget bounding out of bed on the first day of vacation, anxious to play?

Problem was, most of us ran through the sprinkler, sold some lemonade and then resorted to whining long before lunchtime.

Familiar strains of “there’s nothing to do� could be heard all day.

Today’s moms have it better than ours did. Now, there is Tall Pines Day Camp to

keep the kids occupied. Your kids are guaranteed to be so busy making friends and trying new activities that they will forget to complain.

Tall Pines opened in 1996 and has been filled to capacity each season since.

Campers have such a good time that spots historically fill up fast. Those lucky enough to snag a spot will be picked up and

Camp Director, Andrew Yankowitz, was recently honored by the American Camping Association with the Howard Patton Award. This award recognizes individuals who have contributed to the leadership and spirit of the camping world. dropped off, at their door, in air-conditioned vehicles. Campers love that there are twelve different choices for lunch, as well as a snack. Our facility is peanut aware. Children ages 3-14 can attend for periods of three to eight weeks. There is also a half-day program for 3-4 year olds.

Campers are grouped by age and gender and are closely supervised. Junior Campers, ages 3–6, are placed in small groups and guided through planned activi-

ties. Middle Campers, 7-9, and Senior Campers, 10-12, participate in an elective program in addition to their regular schedule. Our Counselor-In-Training (CIT) Program, ages 13-14, have the best of both worlds, since they get to be campers half the day and train for staff positions the other half. They also go on weekly trips to places like Great Adventure and Dorney Park. As an option, the CITs can travel with our Teens on Wheels Program to places like Baltimore and Washington DC. Upon graduation from the CIT Program, and finishing the ninth grade, CITs can become staffers.

There is something for everyone at Tall Pines. Activities run the gamut from sports and crafts to performing arts. Over 600 campers participate in horseback riding, swimming lessons, nature, computers and our favorite‌ Gaga! The camp sits on 66 acres and has 35,000 sq. ft. of air-conditioned buildings. Tall Pines is accredited by the American Camp Association and is state certified.

Please call (856) 262-3900 or visit www.tallpinesdaycamp.com. Open houses dates: 2/20, 3/20, 4/17 and 5/22 from 12 to 3 PM. The camp is located at 1349 Sykesville Road, Williamstown.

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

Delaware Va Valley’s ’s Premier Day Camp p For F or b boys oyyss & girls girls a ges 3 to to 1 4 ages 14

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for the money! • swim wim lessons lessons • horseback orsseback riding ridin • ceramics eramicss • aarchery Transportation, Lunch & Snack • ropes ro course • sports portss provided • eextended care • nature ature (peanut aware) • gymnastics • tennis ennis • teen program with travel • crafts rafts • half or full day, 3 & 4 year olds • dance ance • a/c buildings • drama rama • a/c vehicles • golf olf • woodshop woodshop • free camp shirt

Call today 856-262-3900 1349 Sykesville Road, Williamstown, NJ 08094 Phone: 856-262-3900 • Fax: 856-262-0195 email: fun@tallpinesdaycamp.com 28 | February 2010

Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

Come Join in the FUN!

www.sjsummercamps.com

Offering a variety of sports and activities: • Soccer • Dodgeball • Movie Day • Air Hockey • Kickball • Slip ‘N Slide • Roller Skating

• • • • • • •

Basketball Volleyball Floor Hockey Wiffleball Flag Football Ultimate Frisbee Arts & Crafts

• Gaga • Board Games • Game Cube • Field Trips and Weekly Swimming Trips

$35 registration fee for all 3 locations-camps run from June 22-Sept. 4 MOUNT LAUREL: Open Houses: 1/27, 2/10, 2/25, 3/10, 3/24, 4/14 Boys & Girls 3 1/2 yrs-8th grade 7a-6p. Lunch, snack & extended care included.

CHERRY HILL: Open Houses: 1/25, 2/16, 3/3, 3/22, 4/7, 4/27 Boys & Girls PK-7th grade 7a-6p. Lunch, snack & extended care included.

$10 Off Registration Expires 5/1/10

DEPTFORD: Open Houses: 2/18, 3/3, 3/23, 4/8, 4/27, 5/11, 5/25 Boys & Girls 4-12. 7a-6p.

Lunch, snack & extended care included.

$45/day, $39/day sibling rate

$45/day, $39/day sibling rate

$39/day, $35/day sibling rate

1 Hovtech Blvd. • Mt. Laurel 856.273.2828 • lynne@intsports.com

600 Kresson Road • Cherry Hill 856.428.8588 • CHcampISC@gmail.com

510 Deptford Avenue • Westville 856.845.7353 • michellep@dscsummercamp.com

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

www.southjerseymom.com

February 2010 | 29

Register R egister Your Your o Child for for the

BEST CA CAMP AMP AROUND! AROUN ND! The T he Kids Rule Rule Summer Summer Day Day Camp Camp at Rowan Rowan n University University provides a variety variety of of recreational recreational experiences experriences provides for children child dren entering entering gr ades 17.. for grades 1-7.

Camp Features: Features: Camp - Sports Sports & Game Gamess Eightt OneEigh One-Week Week k Sessions Sessions - Trips Trips Are Offered Offered June 22-August 22-August 14 Are Crafts - Arts Arts & Cr afts - Fitness/Movement Fitness/Movement The camp runs from 8:00am-4:30pm, - Swimming Swimming with extended carre options.

- Weekly Weekly T hemes Themes - Funtastic Funtastic F ridays Fridays -T -Shirt, c amp b ag, and d daily snack provided provided T-Shirt, camp bag, - Exposure Exposure to to a variety variety of of safe safe & fun, age appr opriate activit es. appropriate activites.

- PrePre- and PostPost- camp camp ssupervision offered offered - Mature, Mature, w ell tr ained, cr c eative and energetic energetic sstaff taff well trained, creative

Celebrating C elebrating a 12 years years in operation! operatio on!

For F or more more in information formation c call all 256-4908 256-4908 or visit us at www.rowan.edu/rec www.rowan.edu/rec

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live. learn. PLAY! c ente r

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

30 | February 2010

Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE • SUMMER CAMP GUIDE

PARENTS

What are your kids doing this summer?

Send them to college!

Monday through Friday June 28 through August 27 9 AM-noon and 1 PM-4 PM • Programs for children ages 5-16 • Before and After Care available • Professional instructors • Many enrollment options available

THE GYMNASTICS ACADEMY

New This Year Programs for teens 14-16!

For information please contact Cindi Gant at 856-691-8600 ext. 345

New experiences. New skills.

New friendships.

Summer Academy for Kids at Cumberland County College 3322 College Drive Vineland, NJ 08362-1500

• Swimming • Miniature Golf • Arts & Crafts • 12,000 Sq. Ft. Gym “Theâ€? Gymnastics Academy 5 Larwin Road • Cherry Hill

• Picnic Area • Cheerleading • 30 Ft. Slip-n-Slide • Flexible Weeks

856.795.4599 www.thegcacademy.com

www.cccnj.edu/safk www.southjerseymom.com

February 2010 | 31

UNIVERSAL SOCCER ACADEMY One of the best Soccer Academies in the United States, known for their work with Olympic Level students. Let our professional staff provide your child with a unique soccer experience. Taking Summer Camp applications now. Visit www.UniversalSoccerAcademy.com.

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• The Bug Lady Insect Museum • The Blue Rocks Game • The Gloucester County 4H Fair • Water Slide Fun • The Franklin Institute Serving • Mr. Softee Gloucester

• Bowling • Swimming • Indoor Soccer • Kids Planet • Children's Theater

County for 29 years!

GREAT TIMES DAY CAMP Great Times Two in-ground pools, a 25 acre lake, Day Camp tennis and swim lessons, arts & crafts, full sports program. Over 10,000 sq. ft. of air-conditioned space. All State Certified teachers as counselors. Hot lunch, transportation and weekly trips are included - no extra charge.www.greattimesdaycamp.com.

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270 Landing Road • Clarksboro, NJ Conveniently located o of Cohawkin Rd. and Rt. 295

DON’T MISS OUT ON THE ISC Summer FUN!! ISC SUMMER DAY CAMP Day Camp has exciting field trips, swimming trips, special guests, games & activities this summer. June 21-Sept 3; Ages 3 1/2-8th Grade; 7a-6p. Lunch included. $45/day (Siblings $39/day). Mt. Laurel, Cherry Hill and Deptford. www.sjsummercamps.com or (856) 273-2828.

Pat Zeck, Director www.toddlersntotspreschool.com

)"" & "% &( + ( '(& ( $# Expires 6/1/10

SEND YOUR CHILD TO COLLEGE THIS SUMMER! Cumberland County College offers a 9-week summer camp for kids ages 5-16 yrs. Featuring: Theatre, Cooking, Robotics and much more! June 28 to August 27. Call (856) 691-8600 ext. 345 or visit www.cccnj.edu/safk.

Raise your family while raising your income!

$" # # $- ( )"" & ( $ ! &' . $(' LIBERTY LAKE DAY CAMP Conveniently located off Routes 295, 206, and 130, Liberty Lake Camp is a high quality, electivebased program for ages 4-14. Tuition includes transportation, lunch, and the most dynamic program in camping! (609) 499-7820,www.libertylakedaycamp.com

Don’t miss those SPECIAL MOMENTS! • No product inventories • No big investments • No billings or collections • Earn supplemental or career level income from the comfort of your home • No deliveries • NO RISK!

PERKINS CENTER FOR THE ARTS! Day Camp for children ages 5-11. Visual & Performance Arts Classes based on the theme of Heroes, Myths, and Legends! Voted Best Summer Camp in SJ Magazine’s Reader Poll, 2009! Extended camp day available through partnership with the YMCA. Call (856) 235-6488 or visit www.perkinscenter.org.

Send Your Kids to Notre Dame Regional School Summer Camp #1 in Catholic Education

• Weekly Theme Activities • 7:30 a.m. thru 5:30 p.m. • Loving and safe environment • Open to children 2 yrs- 8th grade

At the Landisville Campus

Contact Melissa Knapp at (856) 697-3456 ext.112 for more information

DOES YOUR CHILD STRUGGLE WITH SPEECH? u Therapy by an experienced professional that is

designed specifically for your child u Quicker results with parent involvement u I make learning fun so kids love to come Call me for an appointment

PEARL SPEECH ASSOCIATES Sharon K. Pearl, M.A., C.C.C.-S.L.P. Licensed Speech Language Pathologist 18 Barclay Pavilion East, Cherry Hill, NJ (Located in the Barclay Farms Center on Route 70)

856.429.1505 32 | February 2010

Visit our website and sign up for our e-newsletter

book review

Tale Spin Stories Read-to-Me Book Reviews

By Kathryn Ross, a.k.a. “Miss Kathy” eople think I look like Mary Poppins.

That is probably because I wear whimsical hats and dress as though I am from another era when I perform. It also probably has something to do with my audience being predominantly children and the fact that I teach literacy and character development through the power of storytelling and the dramatic arts.

Mary Poppins was like that. She was everybody’s favorite English nanny, employing a teaching style that mixed a pinch of magic with a dash of discipline to keep all her little ducks in a row.

In other words, a spoonful of sugar helps the medicine go down.

And the nursery would never be quite the same! Perhaps Amy Krouse Rosenthal is another chip off the Poppins block. She knows how to sweeten the learning of difficult character development lessons.

I guess it all started in 2006 with the publication of her first “cookies” book, Cookies: Bite-Size Life Lessons. It was the cover illustration by Brooke Dyer that first tempted me to open the book and read more – sort of like a whiff of baking cookies that tempt one to take a bite. Inside was a clever text defining various virtuous character qualities with more sumptuous watercolor illustrations, built around the theme of baking cookies. She did it again in 2008 with Christmas Cookies: Bite-Size Holiday Lessons.

Deliciously brilliant, featuring Jane Dyer’s illustrations!

Now, in her recent 2009 release, Sugar Cookies: Sweet Little Lessons on Love, mother/daughter illustrators Jane and Brooke Dyer collaborate with yet another tasty text centering on the true qualities of love – and baking more cookies. For instance, we learn that when we let a friend have the last cookie we are “selfless” and it is “considerate” when we wait to lick the bowl together.

As Valentine’s Day is once again upon us, let us take the time to teach our children the tangible behaviors that become true acts of love when cultivated as virtuous character qualities in our hearts. I can think of no greater gift to give those we love than to share the ingredients found on each of the forty pages of Sugar Cookies – washed down with a glass of milk, a hug and a kiss.

P

Follow-up Activity: Find a favorite sugar cookie recipe. Divide the ingredients so each member of your family can take part in creating something sweet. I always made heart cookies with a www.southjerseymom.com

THEME: Learning to Love BOOK: Sugar Cookies: Sweet Little Lessons on Love AUTHOR: Amy Krouse Rosenthal ILLUSTRATOR: Jane Dyer & Brooke Dyer EAN: 9780061740725

press and pink icing. The kids loved the sprinkles part. Assign each cookie a “little lesson” from the book, then, eat them up so they become a part of you!

Kathryn Ross is a professional storyteller celebrating the love of learning and literacy with children of all ages. She hosts Tale Spin Stories every Tuesday for preschoolers at the Cumberland Mall in Vineland. To learn more about Miss Kathy programs from Pageant Wagon Productions, visit www.pwpstorytellers.com.

MRI/MRA SCAN WARNING A dye used with some MRI and MRA scans is linked to a serious disorder called Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis or NSF, also known as NFD. Symptoms of NSF include:

•Swelling And Thickening Of The Skin (Especially On The Arms Or Legs)

•Joints Contract And Become Inflexible (Especially The Hands, Wrists, And Elbows Or The Feet, Legs, And Knees)

Symptoms usually begin within a few days to several months after being injected with contrast dye. In some cases, NSF can be fatal. If you or a loved one suffered symptoms of NSF following a MRI or MRA scan, call James Rolshouse & Associates at 1-877-593-3102.

Lawyers at James Rolshouse & Associates are licensed in MN with principal offices in Burnsville MN and associate with experienced lawyers throughout the U.S.

James Rolshouse & Associates Personal Injury Attorneys

CALL TOLL FREE: 1-877-593-3102 February 2010 | 33

resource guide

CLASSES SAVE MONEY BY LEARNING TO SEW! Sewing is always a valuable skill, especially in the current economy.

Hand sewing (age 5+), and machine sewing (age 8-adult and mother-daughter), small day and evening classes; machines available.

Contact Lori at (856) 358-8553 or Lorizstudio@aol.com for further details. Trained sewing educator.

CONSIGNMENT SERVICES BRING DOWN THE COST OF GROWING UP AT KIDSTUFF! KIDSTUFF consignment shop specializes in superior pre-owned clothes for kids. Vast selection of high quality & designer brands, all in excellent condition at fraction of original cost. Recycle your child’s “still like-new” clothing back into cash! (856) 589-7171, www.kidstuff.vpweb.com.

HEATING AND AIR CONDITIONING LOOKING FOR A RELIABLE, HONEST, AFFORDABLE HEATING CONTRACTOR? Then you’ve found them! For new construction, including custom homes, upgrades, change outs or renovations call RJ Mechanical for all your HVAC needs. (856) 690-9692.

HOME DECOR BRIGHTEN UP YOUR HOME FOR SPRING! Let Lori’s Stitching Studio help you prepare

F E B R U A RY

Giveaways!

Ringling Bros and

Barnum & Bailey Circus Tickets Philadelphia 76ers

Tickets Massage for Two

from Mobile Massage Veggie Tales DVD Visit www.southjerseymom.com and click on online exclusives to enter to win these prizes.

34 | February 2010

your home for spring after a dull winter, with new window treatments, bedding, slipcovers and light upholstery. For in-home consultation and fabric selection, contact Lori at (856) 358-8553 or Lorizstudio@aol.com, www.LorisStitchingStudio.com. WCAA, CHF Professional Program.

GIFT IDEAS GREAT PERSONALIZED GIFTS FOR ALL AGES At JUST FOR LITTLE PEOPLE (and others, too!) we specialize in new baby gifts both handpainted or embroidered. Beautifully wrapped and available for pick-up at our new Gibbsboro location, or we can ship it for you. Call (856) 627-8901 or check out www.justforlittlepeople.com.

JOB OPPORTUNITIES RAISE YOUR INCOME WHILE RAISING YOUR FAMILY You can make extra money without putting the kids in daycare. You set your own hours. No billing, no collections, no carrying inventory, no large investment. Great local support.

Call us today at (856) 305-7680.

PARTIES – ADULT NOOKIE PARTIES Host a Nookie Party & earn FREE romance products! Cash-n-carry available! Free 2-night vacation for party hostesses! Book your party today! (856) 397-2234 or www.Nookie Parties.com. Check out our New Boutique on Wheels. We bring the store to you!

Earn $$$ While the Kids are at School!

BECOME AN ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE WITH

South Jersey MOM

• Flexible hours - see the kids off to school and be there to pick them up at the end of the day.

COME H.O.M.E. TO TUPPERWARE! Let us help you be healthier, organized, make ‘n’ save money & better our environment!

Ways to bring Tupperware home: In-home parties, book sales, fundraisers or by joining our awesome team! Ed Maher @ (856) 6161515, http://my.tupperware.com/ed or tupperwareboy@aol.com.

PARTIES – CHILDREN CELEBRATE YOUR SPECIAL DAY WITH CARVEL Order your party cakes today. Custom flavors and designs. Gluten & egg free available. Made fresh daily. Open year round. Mention this ad and receive a 15% discount for Feb. Have your next Party at Carvel! (856) 478-4599.

PEDIATRIC OCCUPATIONAL THERAPY NEED HELP GUIDING YOUR CHILD’S DEVELOPMENTAL JOURNEY? At The Schlinic, happy childhoods are our specialty. Kids come for awesome motor equipment, fun sensory experiences and developmental play. Parents come for answers, professionals who listen, assessments and research-supported intervention.

Learn more at www.schlinic.com or call Dr. Jodi at (856) 692-9292.

TRAVEL TRAVEL AGENCY SPECIALIZING IN DISNEY DESTINATIONS Meet ‘N Mickey Travel offers vacation packages at Walt Disney World, Disneyland, Adventures by Disney and Disney Cruise Line.

Also offering complimentary planning services including dining reservations & recommended itineraries. Visit www.meetnmickeytravel.com or call Tara, (856) 547-3565, for no obligation quote today!

WILLS/ESTATE PLANNING WHO WILL TAKE CARE OF YOUR CHILDREN? Appointing Guardians for your minor children is one of the most important aspects of Estate Planning. Complimentary initial consultation. Mention this ad and receive 15% discount for Feb. Contact James F Fahy, Esq., LLC to learn more. Call (856) 287-3107 or email JFahylaw@verizon.net.

• Unlimited Income - how much you earn depends on how much you sell!

Interested applicants should send cover letter and resume to adrienne@southjerseymom.com *Experience preferred, but not required.

Full training provided.

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 Adult Book Club February 2 at 9:30 a.m.

Discuss a great work of fiction or non fiction with the adult book club!

FREE for all. Registration required.

Library Annex, 1501 West Ave, Ocean City. (609) 399-2434 ext. 226 or oceancitylibrary.org.

I Love NY February 13 at 7:30 p.m.

A Cabaret of Broadway Love Songs.

Feel the love for one night only.

All proceeds benefit the Ocean City Theatre Company. Ocean City Music Pier, Moorlyn Terrace and the Boardwalk, Ocean City. $10/person in advance, $15 at the door.

Reservations strongly recommended.

(609) 525-9300 or www.ocnj.us.

Mom's Tournament February 20 The Mays Landing Street Hockey Booster club will host a “Mom’s Tournament.” Portions of the funds raised on this day of fun benefit the South Jersey Field of Dreams - a specially constructed baseball facility designed to meet the needs of physically or cognitively impaired children.

Mays Landing Street Hockey Courts, Leipzig Ave, Mays Landing. $15 registration fee includes commemorative t-shirt. No experience necessary.

Contact Alison Hay at (609) 442-6833.

BURLINGTON COUNTY Black History through Music Feb. 13 at 2 p.m., 5 p.m. & 7 p.m.

A celebration featuring the acclaimed Expressions Chorale; they will focus on music, which has played a dominant role in black history. Old St. Mary’s Episcopal Church, corner of Broad and Wood Streets, Burlington.

Free. (609) 265-5068.

Cinderella & Princess Sing Along Feb. 17 to 21 at 3 p.m. & 7 p.m.

The classic family musical performed by children ages 6 to 18.

Moorestown Theater Company, Hope Community Church of Moorestown, 235 W. Main St, Moorestown. $10.

(856) 778-8357 or www.moorestowntheatercompany.org.

www.southjerseymom.com

CAMDEN COUNTY Share Love February 5 from 6 to 10 p.m.

Celebrate with one another as Positive with Purpose presents I Simply Love Her, Loving Yourself Forevermore. Listen to others share about making dreams happen this year, network and fellowship. Keynote speaker: Dr. Thomazina Jones. The Mansion, 3000 Main St, Voorhees. $20. (856) 392-5152 or www.pwpsocial2010.eventbrite.com.

Congenital Heart Defects Benefit Feb. 27 from 8 p.m. to 12 a.m.

This Beef n Beer benefits local non-profit organization for those affected by Congenital Heart Defects.

Richeez’s Restaurant and Tavern, Warwick Rd, Hi-Nella. $25/person or $40/couple. Contact Krissy (856) 504-6084.

Universal African Dance and Drum February 20 at 1 p.m.

Experience the dazzling group of dancers, musicians and stilt-walkers in this spirited performance. The Discovery Museum, 2040 Springdale Rd, Cherry Hill. $8.95 and $9.95.

(856) 424-1233 or www.discovery museum.com.

Junior Women’s Club February 16 at 7:30 p.m.

Make new friends and help volunteer around town. Events such as the bike parade, fall festival, spelling bee and many social activities! Come see what we are all about. Collingswood Library/Peter Childs Room, Haddon and Collings Ave, Collingswood. Contact Karen at (856) 858-0980 or www.sarchix@yahoo.com.

South Jersey MOM’s Winter Flea Market Feb. 20 from 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.

Loads of gently used and new items at great prices. A great way to get rid of unwanted stuff.

Cherry Hill Health and Racquet Club, 1820 Old Cuthbert Rd, Cherry Hill.

Entry fee $1 for shoppers, includes supervised activities for children while you shop. Space still available for $25/table. (856) 692-MOMS or adrienne@southjerseymom.com.

CAPE MAY COUNTY Polar Bear Run/Walk for Autism February 14 at 1 p.m.

5K run/1.5 mile walk in conjunction with the Polar Plunge weekend.

1 in 150 individuals are diagnosed with autism. Take a plunge to raise money for this great cause.

LaCosta Lounge Sea Isle City.

Pre-registration February 13, 10a–3p. (609) 861-0674 or www.runawayac@comcast.net.

Kennel Club Dog Show Feb. 3 to 7 from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Enjoy this all breed dog show featuring Best of Breed competition and more. Wildwoods Convention Center, Wildwood. $2- $7. (856) 456-2548 or www.boardwalkkennelclub.com.

CUMBERLAND COUNTY Cumberland County Winter Eagle Festival February 6 from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Featuring live eagles, hawks and owls.

Participants can enjoy excursions/ walks, speakers, exhibits, vendors, great food. Mauricetown Fire Hall, Noble St, Mauricetown.

(856) 453-2177 or 1-866-MORE. BirthNetwork Childbirth Preparation Classes February 2 at 6:30 p.m.

Meetings promote mother-friendly pregnancy and childbirth practices and provide physical and emotional support without unnecessary interventions. Magnolia Hill Studios, 1425 Magnolia Rd, Vineland. Call (856) 498-5620 or email sjbirthnetwork@ hotmail.com for more info. Meetings are free!

GLOUCESTER COUNTY FREE Infant Oral Health Seminar Feb. 24 from 10-11 a.m.

FREE Monthly seminar on infant oral health for pregnant moms, new moms and moms trying to conceive. Located at Your Child's Very Own Dentist, 776 Grove Rd, West Deptford. For info visit www.kidsowndentist.com or call (856) 848-2211.

National Pancake Day Feb. 23 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

IHOP, has set a goal to raise $1.75 million for Children’s Miracle Network and other local charities. IHOP offer

things 2 do

February Calendar

guests a free short stack of pancakes and in return, ask guests to donate what they would have paid for the pancakes to their local children’s hospital or another designated local charity. IHOP, 285 Rte 73, W. Berlin.

(856) 753-8404.

Powerful You! Women’s Network February 18 from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

Powerful You! Women’s Network is open to all women who have an interest in networking/connecting with other women on a business/ professional level, light dinner, discussions, relationships. Adelphia Restaurant, 1750 Clements Bridge Rd., Deptford. $25/members and new attendees; $35 non-members.

Contact Shaun Stephenson at (609) 560-8370 or shaun6@comcast.net or www.powerfulyou.com for more info.

SALEM COUNTY Simon & Garfunkel Songbook February 27 from 8 to 10 p.m.

Revel in the timeless songs and harmonies of Simon & Garfunkel, interpreted by the legendary Aztec Two-Step. Appel Farm Arts and Music Center, 457 Shirley Rd, Elmer. (800) 394-1211 or visit www.appelfarm.org.

Wine and Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend II Feb. 13 & 14 from 12 to 5 p.m.

Celebrate Valentine’s Day at the Wine & Chocolate Wine Trail Weekend sponsored by the Garden State Wine Growers Association. Road Vineyards and Winery, 117 Sharptown-Auburn Rd, Pilesgrove. www.auburnroadvineyards.com.

An Evening with the Fabulous Greaseband February 19 from 7 to 11 p.m.

The Fabulous Greaseband, a seven member "Best of the 50's, 60's, 70's, 80's and 90's Rock 'n' Roll” Party Band is highly entertaining and energetic so put on your dance shoes for an evening of fun. Centerton Country Club, 1022 Almond Rd, Pittsgrove. $60/person incl. buffet dinner & cash bar. No tickets sold at door.

Reserve space by Feb 12. (856) 691-6551 or www.sjhfdn.org or www.greaseband.com.

February 2010 | 35

Winter Flea Market February 20, 2010 from 9a-1230p Located at Cherry Hill Health and Racquet Club 1820 Old Cuthbert Road • Cherry Hill

Loads of GENTLY USED and NEW items on sale at great prices!

• Toys • Books • Beauty products • Maternity clothes • Women’s Clothing and shoes • Baby and children’s clothing & shoes

• Highchairs, cribs, pack ‘n’ plays, strollers & car seats • Homemade baked goods and desserts • Vendors with crafts, jewelry, candles and more

Entry Fee for Shoppers: Just $1 Supervised activities for your kids while you shop!

Clear out the house and get rid of your stuff! $25 per table, you keep all the money you make!

Name ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Phone #______________________________________________________________________________________________ Email_______________________________________ City______________________________________________________ Items you will be bringing ______________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________

Mail application with $25 payment to: South Jersey MOM, P.O. Box 2413, Vineland, NJ 08362-2413 Call 856.692.MOMS or email adrienne@southjerseymom.com for more details.