Contents January 2016
14 16 17 18 20 22 26
26
12
features
12
20
Ready, Set, Goals! Kids Eat FREE Directory (st. Johns County) No Name Calling Week Books for No Name Calling Week New Year’s Resolutions and the Failure Revelation Time Out For Mom Dairy Council of Florida/ Gridiron Cooking Challenge Olive Oil: A New Rush for Gold
education 10
28
Parenting Resolutions for the New Year
business spotlight 7
Parent Magazine Foundation
fashion 30
New Year, New You!
health 28
12 Ways to Work Your Workout
every issue 24
January Calendar of Events
Coming Up... February 2016 Romantic Getaways • Children’s Dental Health Month Montessori Education • Education: Private Schools & Pre-School Directory 4 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
www.StJohnsParent.com (386) 437-0300
Reader Services Calendar Submissions: We publish information about family events within and surrounding our county. We would love to hear from you! If you have a family event, fundraiser or childrens activity/program please send your information to editor@bradymediainc.com Deadline for submitting information is approximately one month prior to the month in which the event will occur.
Subscriptions We now have subscription service direct to your home. We are offering these services for only $10 per year for 11 issues of Flagler Parent Magazine. You can also subscribe for FREE to our digital edition for your iPad, iPhone, NOOK, Kindle Fire, or Android Device. Visit our website www.bradymediainc.com and click SUBSCRIBE.
Feedback: We Welcome Your Feedback & Thoughts. In our continuous effort to improve our publications, we look forward to your thoughts, questions and feedback on how we can better tailor information to your families needs. Please feel free to send me an email at Charlie@bradymediainc.com
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 5
with
What’s New in Print & Online
St. Johns Parent
Camp Directors...
It’s not too early to start promoting your Spring & Summer Camps!
New In Schools, On Newsstands & Online
The Camp Fair & Summer Vacation Expo showcases places that build life-long memories for children! Volusia & Flagler County parents will find it much easier and faster to choose a summer camp for their children at the only expo of its kind in the area. The 2016 Camp Fair & Summer Vacation Expo provides busy parents with a one-stop resource for information regarding available daily activities, cost, and much more, with a variety of summer conveniences assembled under one roof. The expo features demonstrations all day long by karate classes, the police department, the fire department, and much more. This year’s Camp Fair and Summer Vacation Expo will be held at The Pavilion at Port Orange on March 12th from 10am - 2pm. Check our website for further details.
Special Child A quarterly magazine dedicated to special needs families and care-givers. Parents and caregivers of children with special needs often face a whole different situation and set of challenges and joys. They require more resources, education and support. Special Child Magazine is a resource dedicated to providing just that. Filled with educational articles, local resources, easy-to-use directories, product reviews, shopping guides and much more. Special Child Magazine does the research and provides the resources available in our area for special families. Special Child Magazine will give you all the tools you need to be informed and proactively parent and care for your special child, Our expert advices helps you make the best decisions that are right for your family. Inside you’ll find: product reviews; local resources; ask an expert; recopies’ DIY decor ideas and much, much more!
Attrention Business Owners: We need your support to make this publication possible! If you are interested in participating in the launch of this exciting new project, call us today to reserve your ad space. Introductory offers available.
facebook.com/ volusiaparent
6 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparent.com
twitter.com/ volusiaparent
pinterest.com/ volusiaparent
instagram.com/ volusiaparent
Business Spotlight
Brady Media, Inc., publishers of Volusia, Flagler, & St. Johns Parent Magazine has announced the formation of its foundation, ‘The Parent Magazine Foundation. Inc.’ “As a parent with an elementary school age child, I understand the many unique needs that we parents face today in the education of our children. It’s not our intention to take anything from the all of the amazing local resources that we currently have available to us in our communities, but it is our hope and intention to offer some very unique resources for parents when it comes to making decisions regarding their children’s education”, says Charlene Michaux, the owner and founder of the Parent Magazine Foundation. The Parent Magazine Foundation describes their mission statement thusly: “Through education and advocacy, The Parent Magazine Foundation, Inc. will bring parents the best information and resources available to assist them in tackling the most important job in the world – PARENTING”. It will be the hope and intention of the foundation to host local events to educate parents on the needs they face in the education of their children. In addition, the foundation will sponsor other events in our communities to advocate their support in the areas of academics, arts and athletics. The foundation plans to fund innovative programs that offer unique depth and breadth to our children’s educational experience. As we work to build a sustainable endowment, we pledge to award grants annually out of our available funds to students and their parents so that parents can be educated in all areas of their children’s academic future. The Foundation was established as a notfor-profit corporation under the laws of the State of Florida and received its IRS classification as a 501 (c)3 charitable organization. Board representation will include individuals from the public and private sector whose interest is specific to its mission statement. Founder Charlene Michaux
“Through education and advocacy, The Parent Magazine Foundation, Inc. will bring parents the best information and resources available to assist them in tackling the most important job in the world – PARENTING”
serves as the current Founder and President. Deb Wind is on the board of trustees as secretary. The Parent Magazine Foundation is currently seeking active local business professionals who have an interest in advocating its mission to complete its board of trustees. The Foundation plans to have a gala kick off membership drive to educate our community on the important issues affecting
the decisions that parents. Your membership is tax deductible.
INFO
For information on the levels of membership or to make a donation please call our office at (386) 437-0300 or visit our website at www.parentmagazinefoundation.org. www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 7
Parent to Parent Publisher / Editor Charlene Michaux charlie@bradymediainc.com 386-547-0161 Advertising/Sales Melissa Chipps melissa@bradymediainc.com 386-569-5188 Mom, and Brady Charlene Michaux Publisher/Editor charlie@bradymediainc.com Happy New Year!! I hope your holidays were as great as ours, filled with fun, family and cheer! This Christmas we invited our family, extended family and friends over for Christmas Eve dinner. It was a huge success and we had a great time catching up with everyone! We’re already planning for next year! The phrase “New Year, New You!” comes up a lot during the month of January, as many people look at this time as a fresh start. That applies health, education, personal commitments and even businesses. We have some great articles this month that may give you the inspiration you need to get moving, start something new or just hit the reset button on a current project. We have done just that! This month marks the anniversary of our 7th year of publishing Flagler Parent Magazine. Yay, lucky “7”we are so blessed to have the community support and readership to make it to year seven in this digital age. And, with the notion of resetting… we have decided to start our own non-profit foundation, The Parent Magazine Foundation. Find out more about our endeavors on page 7 and how you can be a part of our organization. We’re in the process of finalizing our board and advisory committees and welcome your input. Also, we have made some changes in our staff! I would like to welcome Melissa Chipps, our new business development manager and Robert Ludwig, our new advertising sales manager. They both come to us with a great deal of experience. Melissa was formerly with the Flagler Chamber and has a great social network in Flagler County. Robert came to us from St Louis where he owned his own family magazine. We have a beautiful new office in the Roma Court Plaza in Palm Coast, stop by and introduce yourself when you’re in the neighborhood. We will be announcing exciting new programs, events and even a new magazine in next month’s edition. Until then, thank you for your continued readership and support and remember when you visit one of our advertisers, say “I saw your ad in St Johns Parent Magazine”.
Charlie Happy New Year,
8 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparent.com
Robert Ludwig robert@bradymediainc.com 386-222-2848 Social Media Management Marketing 2 Go www.marketing2go.biz Contributing Writers Christina Katz Stacey Loscalzo Renee G. Wyden Ashley Talmadge Marriah C. Soldevilla
Flagler Parent, Volusia Parent, and St. Johns Parent Magazines are published by Brady Media, Inc. and are copyrighted 2008. Brady Media, Inc. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission from Brady Media, Inc. is prohibited. Flagler Parent and Volusia Parent reserve the right to reject advertisements or listings that are not in keeping with the publication’s satndard. Submissions are welcome, but the publisher assumes no responsibility for the return of unsolicited materials. Flagler Parent and Volusia Parent do not endorse or assume responsibility for information, products, services or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. The Flagler County or Volusia County School Boards are not affiliated with these publications in any manner, nor do they endorse ro assume any responsibility for any of the information or advertisements contained in therein.
Brady Media, Inc. 515 Palm Coast Pkwy., SW, Ste. 5 Palm Coast, FL 32137 (386) 437-0300 Office (386) 246-2950 Fax www.BradyMediaInc.com Proud Member of
6-437-0300 8 3 ! e u s Is r ie m e In Our Pre is rt e v d A o T s U Call
education
Parenting Resolutions for the New Year (for children, birth to 5)
As a parent, you know that time passes really quickly. It is so easy to get caught up in the day-to-day business or life, but as 2016 begins, take time to think about your parenting goals for the New Year. Check out some of these parenting resolutions to see if one or more of them will be something you will like to implement with your children this 2016:
1.
4.
Interact with your child daily. We are pulled in many directions and can get easily distracted by the to-dos of the day. Put down the dirty dishes or stop folding laundry and sit for at least 15 minutes a day intentionally interacting with your child. These moments can easily slip through our fingers and we cannot get the time back.
Communicate with your child. Sometimes we get in daily routines and fail to communicate with our children. When you are home, try and look your child in the eye and talk to them about their day, their ups and downs, and all about their life (even if they do not talk yet). This will show your child that you care and are interested in their lives.
2.
5.
Plan a random “fun day” for your child. Pick a random day of the calendar year other than your child’s birthday to spend that is fun for your child. If you have more than one child, make sure to do this for each child.
3. Help your child embrace a new hobby that he/she finds interesting. As parents, it’s easy to want your child to do the hobbies
that you loved when you were younger, but it’s important to help your child develop his or her own hobbies and interests whether that’s painting, playing a musical instrument, playing with trains, etc.
Show affection to your child every day. Despite how your child may act when you show him or her affection, kids need emotional love from their parents. Make a point to hug, snuggle, kiss or give a little massage to your child daily.
Take the time this year to enjoy, invest, and love your children better by being intentional! Soon the day will come where they will be grown, and you’ll look back and be thankful for all the time you spent with them and invested in their lives.
10 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 11
feature
Ready, Set, Goals!
7 Ways to Teach Your Kids to Stay Focused and Meet New Challenges
by Christina Katz
We are living in an age of constant interruption. So in the future, when it comes to setting and accomplishing goals, kids who learn how to concentrate and focus will have a distinct advantage over those who cannot. We need to help our children learn how and when to put their blinders on so they can apply focused goal setting to challenges of their own choosing. Achieving personal goals helps kids channel their energy productively and inspires them become more confident action-takers in the future. Kids are not lazy or unmotivated these days; it's simply easier than ever for them to be distracted and disengaged. As a parent, you can encourage your children to practice healthy goal setting. Follow these suggestions and you will notice your kids stepping up to set and meet new challenges that bring smiles to their faces. As for your role, get ready to cheer them on and give them credit for their contributions as any good coach would. 1. Let them steer. Choose an age-appropriate, just out-of-reach goal. Be careful you don't interject your own desires into this process. For a child who is unsure about what goal to set, be patient and offer many choices until something appeals. You play a supporting role helping your child accomplish whatever goal is chosen, but it must be your child's goal, not yours. 2. Emphasize fun. If your child is overweight, focusing overly on weight loss as their goal is not going to help, but it just might scar them. Forget the problems you think your child needs to solve and emphasize the fun of setting and reaching goals
instead. Let children who have become too sedentary in the past come up with goals on their own, like joining a team or training for a race for the fun of it, not just to get mom and dad off their backs. Share stories of goals you've set and met to inspire them. 3. Embrace strengths. Every person has strengths and weaknesses. There are no exceptions to this rule. If you only mirror your child's negative qualities and mention them too often, perhaps you have not spent enough time considering their best qualities. There are not merely five or ten positive qualities that describe people; there are hundreds. Pick up a little book called
12 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
Strengths Finder 2.0 by Tom Rath. Then go through the book and circle the words you think describe your child. Mention these qualities often and watch your child's confidence blossom. 4. Assist with challenges. Offer yourself as a sounding board when kids run into challenges reaching their goals, but don't solve their problems for them. Instead listen to their concerns and ask them questions. Get them thinking about various approaches that might help. Instead of telling them what to do, ask if they think any of your ideas might be good ways to offset challenges. Don't feel internal pressure to
Double Dog Dares For Younger Kids You can help prepare your kids to meet life's challenges later by turning everyday tasks into fun double-dog dares.
• Complete a chore in a specific amount of time • Find the groceries on the shopping list • Create a to-do list for something they already learned how to do • Teach something they learned to another family member • Complete a puzzle all by themselves • Build something they have never built before • Make up an invention that solves a problem around the house • Cook something using a new recipe
Goals For Older Kids
unstick a stuck child. Brainstorm with them and then let them do it. 5. Praise progress. If your child is continually focused outward, measuring where he or she stands in comparison to others can rob them of personal power. Instead of encouraging your child to be the generic best, encourage your child to achieve his or her personal best. Celebrate the fruition of this expression no matter how it measures up with others. In this way, a ribbon for Most Improved can be viewed as just as valuable as First Place or MVP. 6. Respect weaknesses. Just as strengths can be discovered and flexed for increasing success, weaknesses should be acknowledged and honored, too. The idea of respecting weaknesses rather than denying or trying to correct them may seem strange. But consider whether or not the investment of time and energy to turn weaknesses around is worthwhile. Sometimes flaws teach kids valuable things they need to learn. For example, a forward
who can't score, might make a better midfielder on the soccer field. A dancer who can't do acrobatic tricks might have a strong sense of showmanship on stage. A scattered student in the the classroom might be a talented artist in the studio. Teach your child to forgive weaknesses and pursue undervalued abilities they may be pointing towards, instead. 7. Play the long game. As your child focuses on setting and reaching personal goals, things may not always go quite the way anyone expected. Life has a way of bringing twists and turns to the table. This means short-term victories don't always pan out as expected, even after much time and energy has been invested. When disappointments happen, and they will, help your child focus on the big picture. Getting the most personal satisfaction out of the process and achieving personal growth while making valuable contributions to the whole should always be the plan. Stay the course and things will usually work themselves out.
By helping tweens and teens choose goals that suit their aptitudes, you can increase their willingness to take safe risks in the future. As your children get older, encourage them to set goals that are just beyond what they think they can accomplish like: • Running a 5K • Installing an exhibit of their art • Creating a healthy eating plan • Submitting writing to a contest • Raising money for a cause they support • Trying out for something they are not already good at • Sticking to a new plan for one month • Saving money to make a dream come true
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 13
feature Crispers Free Kid's Meal from Kids Menu with purchase of Adult Meal. 2 kids per parent. Saturday 200 CBL Drive, St. Augustine, FL (904) 825-9901 Denny's Kids eat FREE! Up to two kids per adult entree. Tuesday, Saturday - 4pm -10pm Area: St. Augustine, Ponte Vedra, Flagler, Palatka (386) 586-6078
Kids Eat FREE Directory Applebee’s Bar & Grill Family Day where all Kids Meals are $1.99 Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q 1 FREE kids meal per paying adult! Tuesday 2420 Us Highway 1 S, St Augustine, FL (904) 794-9424 Bono’s Pit Bar-B-Q 1 FREE kids meal per paying adult! Tuesday 100 Bartram Oaks Walk, St. Johns County, FL (904) 287.7710 Brucci's Pizza Two free kids menu items with the purchase of any large pizza. Monday 5:30pm - 7:30pm Age: Kids 12 and under 540 State Road 13, St. John's, FL (904) 287-8317 Carrabba's Italian Grill Everyday all kids items are priced at $6 with the Bambini Sundae priced at $3. Everyday 155 SR 312 West, St. Augustine, FL (904) 819-9093 Chick-Fil-A Free ice cream with the purchase of a kids meal. Activities vary and include storytelling, clowns, crafts, pictures with the Chick-Fil-A Cow mascot and much more! Tuesday - 6pm - 8pm Age: Kids 12 and under Cici's Pizza Everyday the Buffet with 16 kinds of pizza, pasta, salads, and desserts. Kids ages 3 - 10 eat for $2.99 while under 3 yrs old are $.99 Everyday Age: 10 Years and younger 115 Jenkins St, St. Augustine, FL (904) 429-7787 14 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
Moe's Southwest Grill Kids eat Free with purchase of adult meal of greater value. Dine-in or Carry-out. Child must be present. Free Kids Meal Offer Cannot Be Combined with any other offer. Tuesday Age: under 12 years of age 445 State Road 13 North, Suite 1, Fruit Cove, FL 904-287-2799 Pizza Palace Kids eat Free with a paying adult. Monday Age: Kids 12 and under 116 Bartram Oaks Walk, St. John's, FL 904-230-2171 Pusser's Caribbean Grill Kids eat FREE with adult entree purchase! Wednesday Steak 'n Shake 1 FREE Kids Plate for every $8 spent. Kids plate excludes drinks and shakes. Dine-In only. Sunday, Saturday Age: 12 & Under • FREE Kids Plate 1760U.S. 1, St Augustine, FL (904) 824-7229 Tropical Smoothie Cafe Kids get a free kid's combo with the purchase of an Adult Paradise Combo. Sunday Age: Kids 12 and under 2245 County Rd. 210, W, St. John's, FL 904-829-9292 Tropical Smoothie Cafe Kids get a free kid's combo with the purchase of an Adult Paradise Combo. Sunday Age: Kids 12 and under 104 Bartram Oaks Walk, St. John's, FL 904-230-6360 Woody's Bar-B-Q At most of our locations, eat free* *limit one child per adult entree. Day: Monday, 3 pm to Close Age: age 10 and under Zaxby's Get up to two Kids Meals for only $0.99 with purchase of one adult meal Saturday ~ All Day Age: 12 and under $0.99 1107 N Ponce De Leon Blvd, St. Augustine, FL (904) 825-1545
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 15
feature
No Name Calling Week: Jan 18th - 22nd Books for No Name Calling Week
When I heard the word bully, I used to picture a middle school boy, looming on the playground, ready to throw a punch. As the mother of two elementary aged girls, I now know that this was naïve thinking. My oldest daughter met a ‘mean girl’ in first grade and was deep into the world of cliques and name-calling by the time she was in third grade. Unfortunately, my daughter’s experience is not usual. According to the New York Times, in an article originally published in 2010, a survey
of 273 third graders in Massachusetts found that 47 percent of children had been bullied at least once and that 52 percent had reported being called mean names. Given what I now know about bullying, I take every opportunity I can to model and talk about kindness with my girls. Keeping an open line of communication with children is crucial to understanding the role that your child may play in social situations. While some children will open up easily
16 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
by Stacey Loscalzo
with parents, some do better when talking about others. I find that the best way to communicate with my children about difficult issues is to read with them. Below is a collection of recent books that focus on bullying, kindness and caring for elementary aged children. These titles would be perfect to read anytime but especially during “No Name Calling Week” scheduled for January 18th to January 22nd.
Books for No Name Calling Week Kindergarten & First Grade A Sick Day for Amos McGee Philip Stead Chrysanthemum - Kevin Henkes Molly Lou Melon - Patty Lovell The Name Jar - Yangsook Choi The Recess Queen - Alexis O’Neill
Second & Third Grade Bully - Patricia Polacco Each Kindness - Jacqueline Woodson Goal!- Mina Javaherbin Oliver- Birgitta Sif The Quiet Place- Sarah Stewart
Fourth & Fifth Grade: Inside Out and Back Again Thanha Lai Liar and Spy - Rebecca Stead Out of My Mind - Sharon Draper There’s a Girl in the Boy’s Bathroom Louis Sacher Wonder- R.J. Palacio
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 17
feature
New Year’s Resolutions and the Failure Revelation
by Renee G. Wyden, EdD, LCSW
Once again we are at the start of a New have to look back at why old resolutions Year and with that often come the procla- failed. Not to make you feel bad, but rather to mation of our resolutions. There are the learn and create a strategy of how to do it usual themes of losing weight, spending better this time. In my years of counseling clients I have heard many more time with family, getting proclamations from people more organized, or finding a who have had good intennew job. Yet, the research tions with their New Year’s shows that less than 10% of resolutions. However, when the people who set these goals I’ve asked the question “How actually achieve them! do you plan on accomplishing Basically, stating our New those goals?” too often there Year’s goals are easy…it is the is no concrete answer; no “doing” that seems to be a litplan of action. This is the set tle problematic. So what is the up for failure! revelation for accomplishing If you really want to be your goals this year? Acknowledge your previous Renee G. Wyden, EdD, LCSW successful in accomplishing errors and begin the thought process of fail- your goals you must create a strategy of how you are going to do it. The first quesure recovery! I know what you’re thinking and let me tion you need to ask yourself after making just address it now so we can move on. I your proclamation is “How will I go about know we don’t like to openly admit to or talk accomplishing that goal?” Creating this strategy for success does about “failure” because it often brings up feelings of guilt or shame. However, the take some time and considering there are most successful business entrepreneurs and 12 months in a year, taking a couple of greatest athletes tend to have one thing in months to work on your plan of action is common. They learn from failure! They study more realistic. Why? Because in addition to it and STRATEGIZE how they can do it differ- that “Plan A” you need to also have “Plan ently the next time to increase their probabil- B” and possibly a “Plan C.” Why? Because ity of success. Those who avoid looking at often things don’t go according to our origwhy they failed, or dwell on the feelings of inal plan, and having a backup is setting you failure (which does a number on our self- up for failure recovery. As you work on your strategic action esteem and motivation) ultimately miss the plans don’t forget the details. If you want to boat on the ability to recover from failure. So what does this mean? It means that you lose weight don’t just say “I’ll start going to 18 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
the gym,” but rather say “I will go to the gym on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays between the hours of 5:30 and 6:30pm. I will set up recurring gym appointments on my phone as a reminder of what I have scheduled. I will pack my gym bag with 3 sets of exercise clothes on Sunday evenings and place it in my car. If I am unable to attend one of my scheduled gym nights I will make the time to get in some additional physical activity the following day (i.e. take the stairs at work, take a brisk walk at lunch). The idea is to look at the different variables (or obstacles) that caused you to stumble in your past and create a plan to overcome those same variables if and (more realistically) when they present themselves again. This is the learning process. Looking back long enough to learn and taking it forward to put new skills, approaches, understanding into practice increases your probability for success. You will stumble and you may even fall on the road towards accomplishing your goals. When this happens don’t wait until the next New Year to try again. In the words of Mary Pickford, “You may have a fresh start any moment you choose, for this thing we call ‘failure’ is not the falling down, but the staying down.” So just get back up, learn, and start again. Remember, there are many more new moments and new days than are a new year!
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 19
feature
Time Out For Mom
New Year-Appreciate You Challenge by Christina Katz
The New Year often brings a frenzy of moms not feeling good enough. Mom, are you sure you are not too fat? Don't you have a bit too much debt? Couldn't you feed your family homemade food every night as a five-course sit down dinner accommodating everyone's dietary needs? Are your children doing their best in every aspect of existence or should we just go ahead and blame you now? Seriously, the New Year is often not a whole lot of fun for moms. That's why I'm turning the table on resolutions this year, ladies. I'd like you to celebrate all the ways you are good enough already for a change. To that end, I've gathered up ten ways you can treat your imperfect self to a daily toast in your own honor. The year is new, but don't change a thing. Just relish in being the spectacular person you already are and I bet you'll have your very best year yet. Put The Freeze On Criticism. Put a dusting of snow or ice color on your nails. Then pull out your best ice princess look whenever anyone suggests it might be time to get busy on those resolutions. If only you could zap them with your fingertips like Elsa in Frozen. (Until that kicks in, use your icy stare with imaginary freezing action.)
the classic film Mary Poppins will put everything in perspective. Then rally the family to install the largest bird feeder you can afford and keep it overflowing with bulk birdseed from your local big box store or farm supply. You'll feel absolutely abundant every time you fill it. And birds will follow you around the yard as though you were a Disney character!
This Calls For Chocolate. Most things call for afternoon chocolate, so don't save this strategy for a sleety day. See how many variations of hot chocolate you can try this winter (peppermint, caramel, or marshmallow?), then share the best with the rest of the family when the next snow day rolls around.
Color All Over The Lines. Did you get one of those adult coloring books for a holiday gift? Great. Now try coloring all over the lines. Seriously, go ahead and break the coloring book rules. See how many ways your bursts of color can spill beyond all those very serious lines. It feels liberating, doesn't it?
Tuppence A Bag. Worried about money? A family viewing of
Twist And Shout. Hula hooping is a fun activity for a dreary
20 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
afternoon when you don't feel like dragging yourself to the gym. Crank up some music and hula away the blues as you burn calories and whittle your waist. No hoop? Try twisting and shouting until the hoop you order arrives in the mail. You'll stretch your back and loosen up your shoulders. Take Stock. You have a whole bunch of strengths. You also have an assortment of skills. Most importantly you have a plethora of passions. Make three columns on a single page and list them all (strengths, skills, passions). See how much you rock? Make sure others catch you being awesome. Tough Crowd. You got a flat tire, the kids have the flu, and all the people you've been trying to avoid
are calling you? Girlfriend, you need to call on your superpower. Go take a long winter's nap. Practice until you are good at it. Pep Talk. Everyone else is crushing their New Year's resolutions, but will they stick? While you are waiting to find out, why not write a letter to your inner little girl. You can pick a specifically challenging age or just address all your flubs and fears. Tell her what you know now that you wish you had known then. You'll become her favorite heroine of all time. Did Someone Say, Comfort Food? Oh yeah. You definitely did not try enough soup, casserole, and bread recipes over the holidays. You were too busy juggling the hustle and the bustle. So now's your chance. But hurry! Spring is coming and bringing bunny food back into style with it. You Did Great Today. And as a reward, you deserve a generous slathering of thick, scented lotion on your hands, feet, and elbows before bed. Make this your new nightly ritual and go to sleep floating on a cloud of your own essential worthiness. Ahhhh. www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 21
feature
Dairy Council of Florida Announces Third Annual Gridiron Cooking Challenge Fuel Up to Play 60 Initiative Calls for Recipe Submissions from Elementary and Middle School Students The Dairy Council of Florida is hosting its third annual Gridiron Cooking Challenge, a fun-filled food competition for elementary and middle school students throughout Florida. The initiative is created and supported by the Florida Dairy Farmers and is part of Fuel Up to Play 60, an in-school nutrition and physical activity program launched by the National Dairy Council and NFL to help encourage today’s youth to lead healthier lives. Starting January 4, elementary and middle school students in groups of four are encouraged to create and submit an original recipe that features dairy products, such as milk, cheese and yogurt. The deadline for submissions is February 29. The top four student teams in each Florida NFL market – represented by the Miami Dolphins, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Jacksonville Jaguars – will compete for the grand prize at the Gridiron Cooking Challenge as they create their recipe on-site in under 60 minutes. The students’ creations will be judged by a select group of distinguished professionals including NFL players, local celebrity chefs, Florida Dairy Farmers and Fuel Up to Play 60 student ambassadors. The winning team in each NFL market will receive a prize pack for their school val-
ued at up to $2,500. Each student on the team will receive an iPad mini 2, among other prizes. “The Gridiron Cooking Challenge was developed to highlight the health benefits of dairy products and to emphasize the importance of an active lifestyle,” said Vanessa Hodak, VP School Health & Wellness for the Dairy Council of Florida. “Each year, we look forward to reviewing the recipes submitted and interacting with the students during the competitions in Miami, Tampa and Jacksonville.” Recipe entry forms can be found on the Florida Dairy Farmers website, and can be submitted via mail or email. For more information, visit www.floridamilk.com.
22 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
About Dairy Council of Florida The Dairy Council of Florida works with schools, health professionals, social service agencies and others to educate Floridians on the health benefits of milk and other nutrient-rich dairy foods. Dairy Council of Florida programs are funded by Florida Dairy Farmers, which represents more than 130 dairy farming families throughout the state. For more information, call 800-516-4443 or visit www.floridamilk.com. About Florida Dairy Farmers Florida Dairy Farmers is Florida’s milk promotion group, working to raise awareness of the dairy farming industry and the nutrientrich foods it provides. FDF represents more than 130 dairy farming families throughout the state. For more information, call 407-6478899 or visit www.floridamilk.com. About Fuel Up to Play 60 Fuel Up to Play 60 is an in-school nutrition and physical activity program launched by National Dairy Council and NFL, in collaboration with the U. S Department of Agriculture, to help encourage today’s youth to lead healthier lives. In Florida, 2.5 million students in 3,100 schools participate in Fuel Up to Play 60.
Pictured: Bunnell Elementary (large); Equestrian Trail Elementary (Inset left); Lecanto Primary.
St. Johns County School News
education
The 2015-2016 Teachers of the Year and Rookie Teachers of the Year have been selected from each of the district’s 38 schools and were recognized at the monthly School Board meeting last night. These nominees represent the very best among St. Johns County School District teachers. Their colleagues have selected them for this prestigious honor, and they will advance to compete for the countywide title. Nominations for the 2015-2016 Rookie Teacher of the Year have been submitted by 36 of the district’s schools. Eligible teachers must have taught less than three years. This is the ninth year that the Rookie Teacher of the Year competition has been held. These nominees represent the top of their profession among new teachers, and will go on to compete for the coun-
tywide title. The overall winner will be announced at the annual Teacher of the Year and Rookie Teacher of the Year Celebration on Tuesday, January 26 at the Renaissance Resort at the World Golf Village. The St. Johns County Teacher of the Year will then be included for consideration as the Florida Department of Education Macy’s Teacher of the Year 2016. The awards banquet is produced by Investing in Kids (INK) to recognize excellence in the teaching profession and is sponsored, in part, by THE PLAYERS, Beaver Toyota/Scion and Leonard’s Studios. Attached are the lists of nominees. For additional information and tickets to the event, contact Donna Lueders at INK, (904) 547-7120.
2015-2016 Teachers of the Year Elementary Schools John A. Crookshank Elementary Ms. Courtney Fenner Cunningham Creek Elementary Ms. Cristin Rudi Durbin Creek Elementary Ms. Jennifer Sparks W. D. Hartley Elementary Ms. Allison Pryor Hickory Creek Elementary Ms. Gigi Lewis R. B. Hunt Elementary Ms. Karen Howle Julington Creek Elementary Ms. Rebecca England Ketterlinus Elementary Mr. Brian Elmore Otis A. Mason Elementary Ms. Mary Ziegenfuss Mill Creek Elementary Ms. Susan Green Ocean Palms Elementary Ms. Mary DeSanto
South Woods Elementary Ms. Linda Fuce
Pacetti Bay Middle Ms. Katie Ludwig
Timberlin Creek Elementary Ms. Christy Jacobs
Ponte Vedra High Ms. Jennifer Lee
Wards Creek Elementary Ms. Amy Tarmey
Gamble Rogers Middle Ms. Sally Johnson
The Webster School Ms. Adriana Orta-Vidales
Sebastian Middle Mr. Thomas Pearrow
K-8 Liberty Pines Academy Ms. Michelle Whittington
St. Augustine High Mr. Scott Benyacko
Patriot Oaks Academy Ms. Catie Grimes
St. Johns Technical High Ms. Melissa Kurdyla
Valley Ridge Academy Ms. Jamie Yarberry-Beyah
Switzerland Point Middle Ms. Laurie Zentz
Secondary Schools
Alternative Schools Gaines Alternative and Transition Mr. William Wood
Bartram Trail High Ms. Ofelia Hampton-Thomas Creekside High Mr. Troy Keefe Fruit Cove Middle Ms. Lisa Hampton Alice B. Landrum Middle Ms. Ashley Wilson
Osceola Elementary Ms. Sarah Blevins
Pedro Menendez High Mr. Rick Ryan
Palencia Elementary Ms. Jamie Wardley
R. J. Murray Middle Ms. Ashley Woolston
PVPV/Rawlings Elementary Ms. Barbara Stroer
Allen D. Nease High Mr. Durwin Hanson
Virtual Schools St. Johns Virtual School Ms. Mary Maddox Charter Schools First Coast Technical College Mr. Bill Clark
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 23
events Cultural Educational and Museums
January 2016 We need to hear from you. Our magazines list local events for families. To submit an event, send your information by the 10th of the preceding month to:
charlie@bradymediainc.com or mail to: 515 Palm Coast Pwy., SW Ste. 5 Palm Coast, FL 32137 Cultural Educational and Museums
JAN 3 Living History at Fort Matanzas 10:30AM - 3:30PM Fort Matanzas presents cannon or musket firings; with period re-enactors demonstrating how Spanish soldiers in the colonial days defended Fort Matanzas from attackers. Fort Matanzas defended the southern approach to St. Augustine. This fortress was integral to the safety of the fledgling port town, St. Augustine. Admission is free. For more info call (904) 471-0116. JAN 5 Lyonia Environmental Center Earth Flight 1PM Watch a series of films that depict awe-inspiring journeys across three continents from a bird’s perspective. New films will begin on the hour. This program is free. Meet in Lyonia Environmental Center's classroom, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Reservations are requested and may be made by calling 386789-7207, ext. 21028. JAN 6 Lightner Museum Curator Tours "Made for Children’’ This month's tour "Made for Children," will focus on a selection of everyday objects used by children throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries. All objects were designed to educate and instruct children as they grew up to be young ladies and gentlemen. The tour, which is included in admission, takes place at 10 a.m. on the second floor of Lightner Museum. Regular admission is $10 adults; $6 for active duty military; $5 college student and youth ages 12-18; 12 and under are free. 75 King St., St. Augustine. 904-824-2874 www.lightnermuseum.org
JAN 7 Explore Volusia: Indian River Lagoon Park 9AM – 11AM Explore the waterfront park while learning about the importance of estuaries, natural uplands and wetlands. Participants can test water quality and learn about environmental issues facing the lagoon. Meet at 700 Sandpiper St., New Smyrna Beach. Volusia County’s Environmental Management Division sponsors Explore Volusia to acquaint residents with the county’s conservation lands and land management practices. Reservations are required; call 386-736-5927. JAN 16 Ponce de Leon Inlet Lighthouse & Museum Guided Night Tour 6:3-PM – 8PM Climb the lighthouse at night and enjoy an evening of Lighthouse and maritime history. Meet our own Captain Murphy and learn about his adventures on the high seas. Also on that evening, visit with the most famous female Lighthouse keeper and American heroine, Miss Ida Lewis from Lime Rock Lighthouse in Rhode Island. All active teachers will be admitted free of charge with proof of employment. All activities are included with regular admission, no advance reservations required. Please contact Mary Wentzel at mwentzel@ponceinlet.org, or (386) 761-1821 ext. 18, for more information. www.ponceinlet.org. JAN 24 Lyonia Environmental Center Family Game Day Families can play environmentally themed board games, examine specimens under a microscope, and meet the center’s animal ambassadors. Meet in Lyonia Environmental Center's classroom, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Reservations are requested and may be made by calling 386-789-7207, ext. 21028. Farmers Markets JAN 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 Flagler Beach Farmers Market 8AM – 12PM Downtown Flagler Beach, by the Ocean- Every Friday & Saturday, Year Round Rain or Shine. Sunrise to early afternoon. JAN 10, 17, 24, 31 Ormond Beach Farmers Market 8AM – 1PM Fresh Produce • Baked Goods • Honey • Flowers • Thai Cuisine • Meat • Jewelry • Art • Plants • Prepared Food and more from a select group of farmers and vendors. 22 S. Beach St. (City Hall Plaza), Ormond Beach. For more info visit www.ormondbeachmainstreet.com/farmers-market/. JAN 7, 14, 21, 28 Salt Air Farmers Market 10AM – 2PM Marineland Marina hosts the Salt Air Farmers Market every Sunday. Find an array of fresh, organically-grown produce and other yummy things.101 Tolstoy Lane, St. Augustine. (904) 814-9886 or www.saltairfarmersmarket.com.
24 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
JAN 3, 10, 17, 24 Moose Market 10AM – 2PM From organic produce to local seafood and everything in between. Bruce Rossmeyer's Destination Daytona, 1637 North US Highway 1, Ormond Beach. (386) 316-2959 Just For Fun - Out & About
JAN 1 Parents Night Out St. Augustine Alligator Farm Zoological Park, 999 Anastasia Boulevard, St. Augustine. For more info visit http://www.alligatorfarm.com/parents-night-out/ JAN 2 Kids Craft Club - Michael's Craft Store 10AM – 12PM Let your kids explore their creativity while you shop! 30 minutes of crafting fun. All supplies are included. Register for a session every half hour. See an associate to reserve a spot today. 5250 Hwy 100 E, Palm Coast. JAN 3 DeBary Kids Corner Children are invited to DeBary Hall Historic Site’s stable to hear a story, play an old-fashioned game, and make a craft. DeBary Hall is at 198 Sunrise Blvd. The program, which meets every Thursday, is free. For more information, please contact Kayce Looper at 386-668-3840 or klooper@volusia.org.
JAN 8 First Friday Art Walk Browse the wide variety of creative artwork exhibited at St. Augustine's fine art galleries and enjoy an evening of refreshments and live entertainment at this festive monthly event. The new exhibit for January is "Black, White and Shades of Gray," which will be premiered in an opening reception from 5 - 9 p.m. 22 Marine St. Gallery hours are from noon to 4 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays and from 2 to 4 p.m. Sundays. http://augustine.com/event/first-friday-art-walk
events
JAN 8 – 10 Volusia County Home & Garden Show The Volusia County Home & Garden Show will be held in the Ocean Center's Arena and Ballroom. This event will be open to the public. For additional details, please visit their website at http://showtechnology.com/event/annual-volusia-county-home-garden-show/ JAN 4 First Friday Flagler Beach 6PM – 9PM Bring your lawn chairs or blankets and come for the live entertainment, local food vendors and flair. Family fun with Kids Zone sponsored by Flagler Parent. Veterans Park, Flagler Beach.
JAN 30 Tiny Trekkers 10AM Children ages 2 to 5 can listen to "Winter Lullaby,” take a short hike through Lyonia Preserve, and make a take-home craft. This program is free. Meet at Lyonia Environmental Center's, 2150 Eustace Ave., Deltona. Reservations are requested and may be made by calling 386-789-7207, ext. 21028. ext. 21028. Special Causes
JAN 17 – 17 The State Cheer & Dance Championship The State Cheer & Dance Championships will be held in the Exhibit Hall, Arena & Ballroom of the Ocean Center. This event is open to the public. For additional details, please visit their website at http://ac.varsity.com/scdc-general.aspx
JAN 4 First Friday Art Walk 5PM – 9PM Art Galleries of St. Augustine feature new exhibits, refreshments and live music at more than 20 galleries. Historic Area, St. Augustine. (904) 779-2781.
JAN 7 The State Ballet Theatre of Russia presents Romeo & Juliet 7:30PM and 8:30PM Founded by legendary dancer and former principal dancer of The Bolshoi Theatre Ballet, Maya Plisetskaya, The State Ballet Theatre of Russia - now under the direction of award-winning dancer and Moiseyev Dance Company soloist Nikolay Anokhin - presents the most passionate romantic tragedy every told. This full-scale production is choreographed by Bolshoi Theatre Ballet Choreographer Michael Lavrovsky, and based on William Shakespeare's timeless tale of tragic love. The State Ballet Theatre of Russia presents 55 of Russia's brightest ballet stars to bring this celebration of true love onto our stage and into our hearts. Flagler Auditorium 5500 East Hwy. 100, Palm Coast, FL (386)437-7547 • Toll Free: 1-866-FLAGLER www.flaglerauditorium.org
JAN 15 Cirque Italia ~ Water Circus 9:30AM and 7:30PM Come experience the magical world of Cirque Italia – a show like no other. We are proud to be the first traveling WATER circus in the US! Our extraordinary stage holds 35,000 gallons of water and features a dynamic lid which lifts 35 feet into the air, allowing water to fall like rain from above as fountains dazzle below! This incredible show takes place under our majestic white and blue big top tent which came all the way from Italy……..Inside we have such a theatrical and intimate setup, you just might forget you are under a circus tent! Town Center – across from Epic Theatres of Palm Coast 470 Bulldog Drive, Palm Coast. Event Website: http://cirqueitalia.com/ JAN 30 The Color Vibe 5k 9AM – 11AM Get ready Palm Coast for the most colorful funfilled day of your life! You’ll have more color on you than your happy levels can handle! So get your friends and family stretched out for this amazing color blast event where you'll get blasted with color while you run the Color Vibe 5K. Color Vibe is here, and you’re about to get tagged! Kids 12 and under run FREE! http://www.thecolorvibe.com/palmcoast.php
JAN 9 City of Palm Coast 9th annual Christmas Tree Recycling Event 8AM – 1PM Recycle your Christmas tree and receive a free three-gallon evergreen tree. To be held at the Palm Coast Fuel Depot, 22 Utility Drive, Palm Coast. Also accepting: DVD and CD players, keyboards, old wires, cell phones, Syrofoam, used gift wrap, Christmas tree lights (but no TVs, monitors). All trees donated for recycling will be ground and used as mulch to beautify the parks and trails across Palm Coast. More info: 386-986-3722
JAN 12 Mobile Food Pantry 10AM – 1PM Precious Hearts Foundation's mobile food pantry serving not only domestic abuse survivors, the elderly & the homeless, but the community. Call (877) 731-2210 or visit http://www.preciousheartsfoundation.org/
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 25
feature
Olive Oil: A New Rush For Gold
Olives were among the first cultivated crops, and olive oil production dates back thousands of years to the eastern Mediterranean region. Ancient people valued it not only as a culinary accouterment, but also as medicine and lamp fuel. The Greek poet, Homer, famously referred to olive oil as “liquid gold.” North America’s relationship with olives began in the late 1700’s, with cuttings brought by Spanish missionaries. However, it wasn’t until well after the Gold Rush that farmers developed an interest in the olive as a cash crop. by Ashley Talmadge
Traditional Farming Yields New Gold Darro Grieco and his wife, Olivia, own the 100-year-old Berkeley Olive Grove in California. At 400 acres, it’s the largest grove of mission olives (the only olive considered indigenous to the Americas) in the world. Yet, the Griecos have eschewed artificial irrigation and other industrial farm practices in favor of traditional organic, sustainable methods. This allows the olive trees to flourish through their natural 600+ year lifespan, and ensures the preservation of the historic property. Grieco says that although his yield is smaller than that of a large hedgerow operation, “the use of dry farming and hand-intensive practices has produced exceptional olive oils.” Year after year, his award-winning extra virgin olive oils prove his point.
Why extra virgin? Extra virgin olive oil (EVOO) is made simply by crushing olives and extracting the juice. Neither heat nor chemicals, which degrade the oil, are used during the process. Experts agree that only an EVOO confers the health benefits associated with olive oil. How healthy is it? EVOO contains the “good” (monosaturated) fatty acids, as well as naturally occurring polyphenols. Naturopath Dr. Christina Caselli, ND says consumption of olive oil “lowers insulin levels, lowers blood pressure, and reduces overall cholesterol levels.” In addition to the well documented cardiovascular benefits, new studies suggest specific phenols may prevent Alzheimer’s disease and destroy cancer cells. Applying olive oil to
26 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
the skin can be beneficial as well. Caselli says it “can be used as a carrier for essential oils to be used topically,” and that it’s an effective treatment “for cradle cap in infants due to its gentle antimicrobial properties.” Finding your gold. Though good EVOO has proven health benefits, the consumer must be careful. Lab tests have revealed that more than two-thirds of store-bought oils imported by the U.S. and labeled as EVOO fail to meet International Olive Council standards. Unlike wine, olive oil does not improve with age. It’s more like a juice, best just after it’s squeezed. Former olive grower Susie Lawing says, “When buying an oil there are all kinds of variations, but the main thing is freshness.”
Amazing Mayonnaise
In a blender, mix together: 2 farm-fresh egg yolks ¼ tsp. salt 2 tsp. lemon juice pinch of garlic or a bit of garlic oil
With the blender on low, add 1½ cups extra virgin olive oil, drop-bydrop. In just 5 minutes you’ll have a delicious dip for artichokes, dressing for slaw, or spread for a sandwich. ~from Chef Brett LaMott (Raw eggs are made safe by acidifying them with lemon juice or vinegar. Make a fresh batch each time and do not store leftovers.)
Look for: Dark glass bottle or tin container. Exposure to heat and light degrades the oil. Harvest date. Olive oil becomes rancid over time, so buy the most recently bottled oil. Quality seal certification. EVOOs bearing a sticker from one of several programs—e.g. North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA), Extra Virgin Alliance (EVA), or California Olive Oil Council (COOC)—meet specific taste and chemical standards. Price point. “If it sounds too good to be true…” You know the rest of the story. Most experts agree that you cannot buy good EVOO for less than $10/liter. A cook’s companion, hot or cold. Contrary to a widespread myth, good EVOO is quite stable under high heat conditions. It can be used for frying, sautéing, and baking at 410 degrees F or more with tasty, nutritious results. Chef Brett LaMott says, “We cook with extra virgin olive oil at our restau-
rant, because the flavors come out…It’s good to cook with and very healthy for you.” Grieco agrees, adding that an oil with a high phenol content “preserves the nutritional content of the foods you’re cooking with it.” Choosing an oil? Keep in mind: Go bitter for better health. Grieco and other experts say that, due to the high phenol content, the healthiest EVOOs often have a bitter or peppery quality. One olive is not like another. LaMott says each oil has a “terroir”—it “tastes like the soil where it grows.” Olives of the same variety may have very distinct flavors, depending on where they’re grown. Different dishes, different oils. Pair a robust oil with a strong spicy dish, a delicate oil with a light dish. Another healthy and delicious tip? LaMott suggests replacing other fats with olive oil. “It’s far better than putting butter on your bread. Just dip your bread in olive oil.”
Increase Your Olive Oil IQ Olive Oil Times Magazine (www.oliveoiltimes.com) Articles on all things olive oil:history, new research, industry awards. Truth in Olive Oil (www.truthinoliveoil.com) Lists of excellent EVOOs, both “gourmet quality” and store bought. Virgin Territory: Exploring the World of Olive Oil by Nancy Harmon Jenkins (2015), includes 100+ recipes. North American Olive Oil Association (NAOOA) www.aboutoliveoil.org
www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 27
health
12 Ways to Work Your Workout
by Ashley Talmadge
The benefits of exercising regularly are no secret. From controlling weight, to staving off chronic disease, to improving memory and sleep—physical activity seems to be a cure-all for whatever ails you. And yet… How many times have you renewed your commitment to exercise more, only to have life get in the way? Studies show you’re not alone. It’s a fact that most gym memberships go unused within a month or two of purchase. Take heart! There are ways to beat the odds and ensure your personal success. Take a long-term view of your health, start slowly, and don’t expect a miracle in three weeks. You can break the old cycle, and make active habits a part of daily life. Follow these twelve surefire tips to start and maintain your workout routine. Baby steps first. Promise yourself a brisk 15-minute walk on your lunch hour each day, or a 20-minute yoga DVD while the baby’s napping. Start with something you know you can manage, and grow from there.
you. Not a rooster? Don’t schedule your workouts at 5am. Enjoy camaraderie? Join a fitness class. Inspired by screams of, “Make it burn!” as you writhe in pain after your hundredth crunch? Hire the burly retired marine as your personal trainer.
Beware the Shortcut Charlatan. No, you can’t use “vibration technology” to jiggle flab into a beach-ready bikini body. The quicker you’re able to ignore to such outlandish claims, the quicker you can get to the real business of getting fit. Exercising can be fun, but it’s not effortless. View your health and fitness as a creative lifelong endeavor, rather than a phase.
Precision counts. It’s easier to work toward a goal that’s detailed and specific. So “I’ll exercise more,” becomes “I’ll bike five miles, three times a week.” Amy Carroll, full-time insurance agent and mother of two, has been going to the gym regularly for almost four months. She says, “My long-term goal is to be the weight that is on my driver’s license. I have mini goals to shoot for along the way, and currently have hit my first goal of losing 15 pounds!”
Know yourself, be yourself. Nothing causes burnout quicker than hating every minute of your workout. Use the equipment and techniques that motivate
Personalize it. One-on-one time with a personal trainer can
28 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com
help demystify the vast array of techniques and equipment. Personal trainer Brandon Senn claims that many people choose a “cookie cutter” routine, and then can’t stick with their fitness program. He says, “Often people don’t understand what they’re doing and why.” A personal trainer can help you create a flexible and diversified program. Most can also provide advice regarding nutrition and weight management. Scale back. Resist the urge to weigh yourself every day. Sure, you want a concrete way to track the pounds being siphoned away in your sweat. But for most people, losing more than a pound-and-a-half per week is unrealistic. Senn says progress is more accurately tracked by getting a regular body fat measurement (easily obtained at most gyms). In addition, he recommends keeping an accu-
rate log of your workouts as “a great way to see where you’re making progress, and where you might need to modify what you’re doing.” Hop on the scale only weekly, or even less often, to avoid discouragement and get a better sense of how your weight is trending. Buddy up. A workout partner with similar goals can foster some healthy competition. You don’t need to coordinate every workout, but check in with your buddy regularly to compare notes. Choose a person who won’t let you off the hook too easily if you miss your workout. Use bribery and blackmail. Reward yourself in some small way for completing your workout. Sometimes all it takes is the thought of a postworkout shower at the gym, uninterrupted by small children pounding on the door. If you’re more motivated by penalty than reward, agree to buy your workout buddy lunch if you miss more than two sessions in a row. Use social media to post your intentions. Remember your physics. A body at rest tends to stay at rest, while a body in motion tends to keep moving. This goes for your body too. Adopt a “something is better than nothing” attitude. When unforeseen schedule challenges arise, do a brisk 20minute walk or jog rather than ditch your workout completely. Missed workouts pile up quickly, while your feet get more comfortable on the ottoman. Avoid the blame game. So you ate a huge piece of cake after your daughter’s party, and now you feel like your workout was for naught. Allow yourself a mini guilt party (no more than 15 minutes!) and move on. Emphasis on move. And don’t try to compensate for those cake calories by doubling your workout time. Forget the “sugar debt” and keep moving. Mix it up. Try something new when you feel stuck in your routine. Carroll says she loves her Zumba class, but also uses the elliptical, some weight machines, and some free weights. She adds, “I just started doing some basic kick boxing stuff at home and I have enjoyed that too.” Get inspired. Look for someone who makes you think, “If she can do it, so can I.” Whether it’s the restaurant blogger who shed 90 pounds, or the 90-yearold who still walks three miles a day, let your “hero” spur you on.
Ready To Get Moving? Visit One Of These Local Gyms. Aerial Athlete 1701 Lakeside Ave Unit 1 (904) 494-8359 Anytime Fitness 4268 Oldfield Crossing Dr Suite 201 (904) 268-0411
LA Fitness 985 Atlantic Blvd (904) 853-2210 Mind Body Yoga LLC Integrative Yoga Therapy 1181 Neck Rd
540 State Rd 13 (904) 770-7941 Anastasia Fitness 1045 Anastasia Blvd (904) 471-4300 Bikram Yoga North St. Augustine 10440 US-1 #105 (904) 342-2056
(904) 514-3172 Now & Zen Yoga & Pilates Studio 224 San Marco Ave (904) 430-3753 Pilates Haus 1820 State Rd 13 (904) 655-1822
CrossFit Atlantic 1605 Old Moultrie Road (904) 342-5512 CrossFit Hardnox 110 Cumberland Park Dr #201 (904) 477-4436 DRiV FiTNESS / CrossFit DF 235 State Road 207, Suite 4B (904) 586-8700
Planet Fitness 2477 US-1 (904) 794-0559 1514 County Rd 220 #400 (904) 639-5667 Powerhouse Gym 1352 Beach Blvd (904) 241-5227
Every Body Fitness
11740 San Jose Blvd # 2
107 Nature Walk Pkwy
(904) 880-1067
(904) 287-2101 753 Atlantic Blvd Flagler Nutrition
(904) 242-4967
172 FL-312 (407) 443-1904
Thrive Chiropractic, Nutrition & Yoga 193 San Marco Ave
Florida Get Fit
(888) 475-4004
2780 FL-16 (904) 669-7069
World Gym 1650 US-1
Go HQ 1741 Dobbs Rd #13 (904) 540-6076
1947 Florida A1A
Ketterlinus Gym
(904) 471-8887
(904) 829-3443
60 Orange St (904) 209-0377 www.stjohnsparent.com / January 2016 • 29
fashion
1. Jumpsuit - http://www.hm.com/us/product/37889?article=37889-C#article=37889-A 2. Blazer - http://www.hm.com/us/product/32858?article=32858-A 3. Shoes - http://www.hm.com/us/product/84151?article=84151-A#article=84151-C 4. Clutch - http://www.hm.com/us/product/37528?article=37528-A 5. Necklace - http://www.hm.com/us/product/20867?article=20867-A Fashion page art provided by: Marriah C. Soldevilla /msoldevillaphotography@hotmail.com 30 • January 2016 / www.stjohnsparentparent.com