FEBRUARY 2016 | FREE suburbanparent.com
PARK CITIES | PRESTON HOLLOW | LAKEWOOD | AND MORE
BURN CALORIES... YES, EVEN ON VALENTINE’S DAY!
BEST CAMPS DIRECTORY
SMILE RX
ORTHODONTICS NOT JUST FOR KIDS!
OUR BABY ISSUE
A PLAN FOR PREGNANCY
2/29/2016.
PUBLISHER/EDITOR Mary Ellen Caldwell, RD, LD, CLT editor@suburbanparent.com
MARY SHARES
CREATIVE DIRECTOR
OUR FEBRUARY ISSUES ARE ON FLEEK!
Renée Higgins renee@suburbanparent.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Christa Melnyk Hines Ken Swarner Ashley Talmadge
CALENDAR EDITOR Lara Haynes
COVER PHOTOGRAPHER Misty Stagnone Photography mistystagnonephotography.com
AD DESIGNERS Victor Perry Luis Robles So Hee Lee Won
ADVERTISING EXECUTIVES Nubia de la Garza Denise Miller
AD COORDINATOR/ DISTRIBUTION Francie Morin francie@suburbanparent.com
ACCOUNTING Carrie Vincent carrie@suburbanparent.com
CONTACT US FACEBOOK facebook.com/suburbanparentmagazines facebook.com/dallasparentmagazine facebook.com/momsolvers facebook.com/dfwfamilia
ADVERTISING advertising@suburbanparent.com
I
thoroughly enjoyed putting together this month’s publications; the editorial focus is on 3 of my favorite topics. Babies, Dental Health, and Camps. I know you may be thinking, “Really, Mary Ellen?” But, yes, it’s true. Our February Baby & Maternity Book not only has gorgeous babies on each of our 6 covers, it’s an opportunity to remember my own “back in the day” moments of preparing for pregnancy. Searching, and asking for recommendations for the best doctor, eating the right foods, and of course the nursery! Dental Health is very important too; as a health professional, I knew I needed to make sure my mouth was healthy. Sometimes pregnancy can contribute to gum disease, and gum disease “AND SO WE KNOW can contribute to complications with pregnancy. So stay on top of your AND RELY ON THE oral health! And of course, Camps! I didn’t have opportunities to attend LOVE GOD HAS FOR summer camps when I was growing up, so when my husband and I were US. GOD IS LOVE. considering sending our 3rd grader to a camp with a friend, there were WHOEVER LIVES IN many conversations. She did attend the away camp (we stayed nearby), LOVE LIVES IN GOD, and she had so much fun and made many, many friends. When we picked AND GOD IN THEM.” her up a week later, she talked and sang songs she learned the entire — 1 JOHN 4:16 drive home! She has been attending the same camp now for 6 years, and she intends to be a camp counselor after high school. February is also important to me because it’s the beginning of Lent. The season of examination, abstinence, confession and penance. Most people know about the small sacrifices Christians make during the Lenten Season; like meatless Fridays and fasting. This is also a time when we reflect (pray) and prepare our hearts for celebrating Easter. The sacrifices we offer up are supposed to make us a bit uncomfortable. So as to help us consider the path of Our Lord’s Passion, a lot uncomfortable! So enjoy “Fat Tuesday” with Mardi Gras or also known as Carnival. It’s interesting that the word “carnival” comes from the Latin “carne vale” which means “farewell to meat!” Oh, the words “on fleek” evidently mean “the quality of being perfect; on point.” Okay, our February issues may not be perfect, but do you know who is really “on fleek?” Jesus!
EDITORIAL editor@suburbanparent.com
PHONE/MAIL 972.887.7779 8344 Sterling Street Irving, Texas 75063
suburbanparent.com
facebook.com/suburbanparentmagazines facebook.com/dallasparentmagazine
COVER MODEL Anderson, 4 months Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.
4
dallas parent
Little Anderson loves to smile, make noise and snuggle with his momma. He’s also fond of lying on his activity mat to look at the lights and reach for the toys above him. But, what he most enjoys is watching his older brothers play. He cannot wait to be a part of the fun!
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
YOU SHOULD KNOW PARENTS’ PERSPECTIVE
WHY WE SEND OUR KIDS TO CAMP According to an American Camp Association (ACA) report, parents said they send their kids to camp each summer because the camp experience helps their child • Feel good about themselves • Gain more self-confidence or self-esteem • Increase in independence and show more leadership skills • Increase their friendship skills and feel more socially comfortable • Gain in adventurousness and willingness to try new things (Source: http://www.acacamps.org/press-room/aca-facts-trends)
Kissing
How often you need to go to the dentist depends on you,
Burns Calories
your teeth and your habits.
Here’s more good news for you love-birds this Valentine’s Day. Kissing burns calories! Now we’re not talking about a gentle brush on the lips. No, we’re talking about a really good kiss. A heated, heart-racing kiss can burn up to two calories a minute. Of course, that’s not enough to skip your workout, but it’s better than not kissing. And don’t forget, kissing releases endorphins and lowers cortisol levels too. As if being in love wasn’t nice enough already. Happy Valentine’s Day!
away with going only once
Twice a year is a good rule of thumb. Some can get a year while others need to go more often. You and your dentist can make that call. The important thing is
NO SHAKING THE BABY! Need to wake a sleeping baby? Tickle his feet or gently blow on his cheek. Never shake a newborn. That includes jiggling on your knee and tossing in the air. Vigorous shaking can really injure a baby. So, no rough play for a while. There’ll be plenty of time for that later.
6
GO TO THE DENTIST
dallas parent
BABY KICKS
to go – regularly. Regular
On average, babies in the womb kick 15-20 times per day. And by kick we mean any movement (roll, stretch, hiccup, etc.). There’s no need to actually count the number of kicks you feel during the day, but keeping tabs on your baby’s movement is important. If you think the movements have reduced, sit down, have a snack or cold drink and see if you can feel at least ten movements in the next two hours. Most likely, you’ve just been busy and haven’t noticed the movements. If in the next two hours, you notice reduced movements, contact your care provider.
find early signs of problems
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
visits allow your dentist to making treatments simpler and more affordable. By the time you see something or feel pain, the problem may be in a more advanced stage. Besides, clean teeth are pretty.
ABA Center for Autism
Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
7
QUESTIONS { + PROFESSIONAL ANSWERS }
JAMIE, MOM OF 1 Q. When to go to Sleep-away Camp?
A. The right time to send your kid to sleepaway camp is not necessarily a number. Nine works, but some kids do well as young as six. Others need to be even older than nine. It really depends on you, your parenting style and your child’s temperament. If both you and your child are anxious, don’t do it; neither of you are ready. If your child is anxious, but you’re ready, talk it over and encourage him to go. If you’re anxious, but your child is ready, get over it and let him go. Camp is great and easier experienced for the first time at a younger age because there’ll be more kids in the same situation. However, there’ll most likely be other first timers the same age no matter when your child goes. SUNSHINE Camp Director and Mom of 5
CINDI, CARING FRIEND Q. My friend is having her 2nd child. She thinks it’s not fair to have another Baby Shower. I really want her to celebrate with a Shower. Your thoughts?
A. Everyone deserves a baby shower for a first baby. How else can you get all the cool new baby gear? But, what about second and subsequent babies? They’re going to need some new stuff too - especially if the new baby’s a different gender or there’s been a significant gap between babies. That’s when a “baby sprinkle” is in order. A sprinkle is, as the name suggests, a light shower. You usually have fewer guests, and include the older sibling. It’s the perfect way to celebrate the new arrival and pick up a few necessities. Can you say diapers? Hope this helps! FRANCIS, Mom of 3
BARB ASKS... Q. How safe are dental X-rays?
A. Good News! Advances in dentistry over the years have led to the low radiation levels emitted by dental X-rays. These improvements in the machines limit the radiation beam to the small area being X-rayed, and higher speed X-ray films require shorter exposure time compared with older film speeds, and the use of film holders (that keep the film in place in the mouth) prevents the film from slipping which reduces the need for repeat X-rays, hence, additional radiation exposure. Also, the use of those comfy, lead-lined, full-body aprons protects the body from stray radiation (although with the modern dental X-ray machines, this is just an added protection.) In addition, federal law requires that X-ray machines be checked for accuracy and safety every two years, with some states requiring more frequent checks. MARY ELLEN, Your Favorite Editor
WE ASKED THE SPECIALIST
Q. Is it good for children to sleep ten hours each day? What happens to the brains of children when they don’t get enough sleep?”
DR. M. CLIFTON St. Luke’s
children. Lack of sleep may limit the ability to learn, listen, concentrate and solve problems. Lack of sleep
A. Most children ages 5-9 require 9.5 hours of sleep however each child has their own requirements therefore depending upon the age of your child, 10 hours may be appropriate. The average teenager requires between 9-10 hours of sleep per night. Irregular bedtimes may disrupt healthy brain development in young can also impact cognitive ability. Inadequate sleep will result in problems with attention, memory, decision making, reaction time, and creativity, all of which are important in school. The suggested proper sleep times for Newborns 0-3 months is 10.5-18 hours per day in various shifts, 4-12 months is 9-12 hours, Ages 1-2 is 11-14 hours, Ages 3-5 11-13 hours, Ages 6-13, 9-11 hours.
EMAIL QUESTIONS: editor@suburbanparent.com 8
dallas parent
SUBMIT QUESTIONS : facebook.com/momsolvers
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
Serving the needs of learning different students for 28 years.
Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
9
WE LOVE THIS { YOU WILL TOO }
SUPER COOL SIPPY CUP
1 Silikids’ stylish sippy cup (non-plastic) offers a new take on sippy cups! It has a shock absorbent design. Safety and beautiful design have come together at last. The glass is dishwasher safe and the Siliskin® and Sippy Top can be boiled to sterilize. Recommended for ages 24 months and up. We found it at www.silikids.com, $12.95
SAY NO TO GERMS
2 Protect your toothbrush from germs! These Super Cute UV Sanitizers are not only cute and fun they provide a 99.9% germ-free toothbrush. The Zapi Luxe has a wobble that can’t topple! Get one or more today, at www.violife.com, $29.95
n i w a gift set v
MEALS TO NOURISH
3 NurturMe, the first and only family of certifiedorganic, dried fruit and veggie meals and snacks created to nourish healthy growth in little ones! www.nurturme.com, $3.49 and up.
5 alued at $5
PROTECT YOUR CAMPER
4 Don’t pack without it! Perfect for your Campers! A strong and dependable repellency against mosquitoes and more! We found it at shopwithmaryellen.avonrepresentative.com, Read reviews! Starting at $14.
COLIC NO MORE
5 Ideal for newborns, the innovative MAM AntiColic Bottle helps reduce the stress associated with newborn feedings. Patented ventilation holes regulate the pressure balance of baby’s milk, allowing it to flow evenly without bubbles or air pockets for reduced gas and colic symptoms. Recommended for newborns and up. We found it at www.mambaby.com. Starting at $6.99 each.
GO ONLINE FOR CHANCE TO WIN AND SEE MORE BABY ITEMS @: www.suburbanparent.com 10
dallas parent
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
www.letstalkdallas.com
214-361-KIDS (5437)
8305 Walnut Hill Lane, Suite 225, Dallas, Texas 75231
www.starKIDSdentist.com
Barrie Barber Choate DDS, MSD, PA
www.facebook.com/starKIDSdentist Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
11
Healthy Babies Start with Proper Pregnancy Planning A healthy pregnancy begins long before conception. By planning ahead you can lower the risk of complications and give your baby the best support from the very beginning. Find a physician. First, choose a family care or OB/GYN who you’re comfortable with and trust. Check with friends and family for referrals. Does your physician listen to your concerns and answer your questions? Is she in a convenient location? Does she have privileges at the hospital where you’d like to deliver?
Schedule a pre-pregnancy check-up. During a preconception appointment, you and your physician will discuss your pregnancy timeline. Share any past pregnancy problems, prescription drugs you’re on, your emotional and physical health and your lifestyle habits. “With your physician, consider doing fasting blood work to check glucose for diabetes, a lipid panel for cholesterol and triglycerides, a complete blood count to check for anemia and a TSH to check for thyroid abnormalities,” advises Dr. Peter Caruso, OB/GYN.
Power up. At least three months before you hope to get pregnant, begin taking prenatal vitamins (available over the counter) that contain at least 400 mcg folic acid, which can help prevent brain and spinal cord birth defects. As blood in the body nearly doubles toward the end of pregnancy, you’ll want to ensure your vitamin also contains an ample supply of iron. “Iron is the building block for hemoglobin which carries oxygen to the baby,” says Susan Thrasher, APRN, antepartum nurse practitioner.
BY C H R I S TA M E L N Y K H I N E S
Get in shape. Achieve a healthy weight through diet and exercise and *kick bad habits. “Your body ovulates more efficiently when you’re at a healthy weight so if you’re trying to become pregnant, it’s a great time to focus on your well-being to ensure your body is best prepared to support a healthy pregnancy,” says Dr. Reagan Wittek, OB/GYN. During pregnancy, overweight women risk high blood pressure, pre-ec-
12
dallas parent
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
lampsia, pre-term labor and delivery, gestational diabetes, c-section and birth injury at delivery. “By the same token, being underweight can also pose dangers, resulting in a low birth weight baby and an increased risk for preterm birth,” Thrasher says. *Smoking, drinking alcohol and substance abuse can seriously harm a developing baby especially in the first trimester. Talk to your doctor if you need help.
Congratulations, you’re pregnant! Continue your pre-pregnancy healthy choices. Prioritize your doctor appointments and follow his or her recommendations.
Feeling green? For many women, nausea and vomiting often accompanies early pregnancy. Caruso recommends eating six small meals a day and taking a daily 50 mg vitamin B6 to relieve morning sickness. If you’re not gaining weight and experiencing trouble keeping food and fluids down, alert your provider.
Feed your baby right. Your body only requires a few hundred more calories a day to support your growing baby. Avoid foods with low-nutritional value. Instead consume high-quality calories found in fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
Manage stress and anxiety. A healthy support network, regular exercise and communicating with your physician can help you manage stressful, anxious emotions common in pregnancy. “Don’t ever be afraid to talk to your doctor if you’re worried about your anxiety,” Wittek says. “No question is stupid and we’re here to support both your physical and mental health before, during and after pregnancy.”
Listen to your body. Never an exact science, pregnancy can be unpredictable no matter how well you take care of yourself. First time mom-to-be Kim Kern carefully planned for her pregnancy. But at 24 weeks along, she says something didn’t feel right. “I’ve never been pregnant before. And my doctor told me from the beginning that ‘if you feel something is going on, call us,’” Kern says. “There’s a good chance that her encouragement saved my baby.” Diagnosed with cervical incompetence, which often results in miscarriage, Kern is on bed rest in her hospital’s Antepartum Unit, a specialized unit which provides round-the-clock care to women experiencing high-risk pregnancies. “It’s looking like I’ll be here until I meet the little guy,” she says. Although her otherwise active life is on hold at the moment, Kern tries to remain optimistic. “You can do all of the planning. We wanted this pregnancy and now.... I’m trying to realize that it’s just out of my control,” Kern says. “But, I’m in the best place I can be.” SP
2.5
Proud member of the Human Milk Banking Association of North America
Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
13
BY AS H L E Y TA L M A D G E
fix?
Orthodontists Aren’t Just for Kids!
a
s a child, Tina McDermott received dental advice that was commonly given in the ‘80s. “My teeth weren’t horribly crooked,” she says, “so my dentist told my mom that I didn’t need braces, and that I could keep my wisdom teeth.” Once considered to be primarily cosmetic, orthodontic treatment is now seen as a way to preserve dental health. A couple of years ago, McDermott’s dentist suggested that in addition to getting her wisdom teeth pulled, she should consider braces to avoid future dental problems. “I had wished my teeth were straighter and that I didn’t have an overbite,” she says, “but I didn’t seriously consider treatment until I learned that it would increase the likelihood that I would need dentures if I didn’t.” According to a 2013 patient survey by the American Association of Orthodontists (AAO), the number of adults undergoing orthodontic treatment is on the rise. Nationally, adults now comprise more than 20 percent of orthodontic patients. Orthodontist Dr. Charles Cooley says adults make up about 40 percent of his practice. Half these adults are self-referrals. “They’ve already gotten treatment for their kids, and have decided it’s their turn,” says Cooley. The other half are referred by dentists who see a breakdown of dentition resulting from a poor bite. “When I correct the bite,” says Cooley, “the longevity of dental restorations, such as crowns and caps, will be greater.” Dental health and cosmetic appearance are not separate issues. Orthodontist Dr. Scott Hood says, “The understanding of what orthodontic treatment can do, both aesthetically and functionally, has increased among the general public as well as the dental community. Today there is much collaboration among dentists, orthodontists, periodontists, and oral surgeons to ensure a healthy and cosmetically appealing outcome for the patient.” While conceding that patients are often motivated by appearance, Cooley adds, “There’s rarely a treatment I will do purely for cosmetic reasons. I want to treat the patient for function. The better your teeth function, the better position they’re in, and the better it’s going to look.” Adults who seek orthodontic treatment may come with specific concerns, or even fears. Number one, Cooley says, is pain. “Adults still remember when their friends went in to have their wires tied, and all the headgear,” he says. “But the new technology and new metals have changed all that.” Innovations such as temperature-sensitive wires, gradual computer-generated adjustments, and temporary anchoring devices (TADs), have made severe mouth pain and bloody gums things of the past. And often such high-tech wizardry means less time in the chair, and more time between visits. The AAO survey suggests that 70 percent of adults are concerned about the appearance of braces and other dental appliances. But such apprehensions tend to dissipate quickly once the patient begins treatment. Orthodontia has become much less conspicuous over the last few decades, and a plethora of “invisible” options has
14
dallas parent
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
brought more adults to the office. In addition to traditional metal braces, orthodontists offer: 1) Ceramic/clear brackets designed to blend better with tooth color, 2) Lingual braces positioned on the back (tongue side) of teeth, and 3) Clear aligners, which are custom made removable “trays.” Orthodontic treatment can often remain a “secret” between patient and provider—until friends notice the new and improved smile! There are financial concerns as well. The average cost of orthodontic treatment is $4500-$6500. Even with dental insurance, the patient’s out-of-pocket expense can be significant. Hood says, “A few patients pay up front, but most make monthly payments based on treatment time as well as treatment costs. Most orthodontists offer in-house financing, as well as ‘CareCredit’ type financing options.” McDermott stresses the importance of interviewing several What potential problems orthodontists before choosing one. have you identified? Most provide a free consultation, What is the likely outcome during which the prospective patient if I choose not to have receives a comprehensive exam, treatment? diagnosis, options for treatment, What treatment options do and answers to any questions. Hood I have? says online sources can provide Please describe the good preparation. “The higher the treatment plan(s), step patient’s dental IQ the better they by step. understand the process and what to How long will treatment expect during treatment as well as take? the final outcome,” he says. As for McDermott’s outcome? What outcome can I reasonably expect? “ I couldn’t be happier,” she says. “My treatment is coming to a close, What is the total cost of and my teeth look so much better. treatment? How much will my insurance cover? Do They’re straight, and even more you offer a payment plan important, healthy. It’s no small thing for the remainder? to keep your teeth for life!” SP
Modern Braces
CERAMIC/CLEAR: Contour, InVu, Reflections SELF-LIGATING: Damon System, SmartClip, SPEED LINGUAL: Incognito, In-Ovation L, Harmony INVISIBLE ALIGNER: Invisalign, Clear Correct, Simpli5 See images @ www.animated-teeth.com/dental-braces
Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
15
KNOW IT ALL { YOUR COMMUNITY CALENDAR }
FEBRUARY 2016 MON 1 PENGUIN DAYS AT THE DALLAS ZOO: $5 ADMISSION Through Feb. 29. Winter is here and so are Penguin Days! $5 admission to the zoo! Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thornton Freeway, Dallas, www.dallaszoo.com.
ON STAGE: I LOVE YOU, YOU’RE PERFECT, NOW CHANGE Runs through Feb 14. Now celebrating its sixteenth year as a Theatre Three tradition, the mega-hit production I Love You, You’re Perfect, Now Change returns for a limited engagement in Theatre Too, Theatre Three’s intimate downstairs venue. This celebration and exploration of the mating game will feature two married couples, Kim and Max Swarner and Amy Mills and Doug Jackson. This hilarious revue pays tribute to those who have loved and lost and lived to try again. Smartly conceived with catchy tunes and witty lyrics (Book by Joe DiPietro, Music by Jimmy Roberts), this affectionate look at love and marriage is as amusingly appropriate today as when it first opened in New York in 1996. Audiences fill the theatre with laughter as the cast explores the joys of dating, romance, marriage, lovers, husbands, wives, and in-laws. Directed by Kat Edwards, it’s a hilarious look at love and relationships that is as touching and insightful as it is humorous. Valentine’s Weekend (Feb. 12, 13 & 14) includes flowers, chocolate and champagne $50 per ticket. Visit website for show times and ticket further ticket information. Theatre Three, 2800 Routh Street, Dallas, 214-871-3300, theatre3dallas.com.
MUSIC AND STORIES WITH KIDWORKS 11:00am. Grab the kiddos for a storytelling session in the park! Klyde Warren Park, The Dallas Morning News Reading & Games Room, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, 214-716-4500.
dallas parent
Through Feb. 21. This exhibition features work by 60 artists including Andy Warhol, Robert Rauschenberg, Jackson Pollack, Roy Lichtenstein, Willem de Kooning, and Robert Motherwell. Modern art has brought a fresh and unconventional approach to the creative community, expressing the loves, hates, ideas, beliefs, interests, passions, strengths, and weaknesses of a generation emerging in the mid-Twentieth Century. This exhibit will explore traditional mediums of art, outside the box, and how the art world embraced the work that represents a movement that changed the face of fine art in America. Hours of Operation: Tues-Sat: 10:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 5:00 p.m. Closed Mondays and major holidays. Admission is $8 for adults, $5 for students and seniors. Children 12 and under are FREE. Donations are also welcome. Arlington Museum of Art, 201 W. Main Street, Arlington, 817-275-4600.
WED 3 EXHIBIT: CREATURES OF LIGHT: NATURE’S BIOLUMINESCENCE Through Feb. 21. From the flickering fireflies you once captured in jar in our own backyard, to the iridescent deep-sea creatures in our oceans’ darkest depths, the magical world of bioluminescence comes to life in Creatures of Light. Come immerse yourself in the natural phenomenon of living light. Visit website for museum hours and ticket information. Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, 214-428-5555, perotmuseum.org.
A YEAR WITH FROG AND TOAD
TUE 2
16
MODERN MASTERS: WARHOL, POLLACK, LICHTENSTEIN, RAUSCHENBERG, DE KONNING, MOTHERWELL
Through Feb. 28. The three-time TONYnominated Broadway hit with its jazzy score hops to DCT just in time for spring. This whimsical musical follows two unlikely best friends and their quirky egos from hibernation to planting, to swimming, to sledding with plenty of fun and lots to learn along the way. This adorably charming story captivates audiences of all ages -
= ADVERTISER
even those who think they’re too old for make-believe. Join Frog and Toad as they weather the seasons and celebrate the differences that make them special. You and your best friends will be tapping your webbed toes all the way home! Please see website for show times and ticket information. Recommended for ages 4 and up Dallas Children’s Theater, 5938 Skillman, Dallas, 214-740-0051, dct.org.
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. HEAT 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.
THU 4 LORD OF THE FLIES Through February 14. When a group of schoolboys survives a catastrophic plane crash, what starts as a desert island adventure quickly descends into a struggle for survival in a darkly sinister world of superstition and immorality. As the boys slowly explore their new-found freedom, their fun and games turn into vicious battles for power. When the group splits into two opposing tribes: one that strives for civility and another that delights in savage violence; the competition escalates into a dangerous, frightening climax. Based on the groundbreaking 1954 novel, this gripping classic looks into the darker sides of human nature where it’s civilization vs. savagery and the mob vs. morality. Addison Water Tower Theatre, 15650 Addison Road, Addison, 972450-6230, watertowertheatre.org.
EXHIBITION: GUSTAVE CAILLEBOTTE: THE PAINTER’S EYE Through Feb. 14. During the height of Impressionism in the 1870s and 1880s, Gustave Caillebotte (1848–1894) produced some of the movement’s most daring and bold paintings. Experimenting with radical points of view and audacious perspective, he created images of Paris streets, of domestic life and of country pursuits that are unforgettable. Some 50 paintings from 1875 to 1882—the time in which Caillebotte was most committed to the Impressionist movement—will reveal his genius. Such
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
masterworks as Paris Street; Rainy Day (Art Institute of Chicago), Floor Scrapers (Musée d’Orsay) and two versions of the Pont de l’Europe (Musée du Petit Palais, Geneva, and Kimbell Art Museum) are among the familiar images that will be joined by paintings from museums and private collections throughout the world. Together, they will present to American audiences for the first time in a generation the full range of Caillebotte’s extraordinary vision. Kimbell Art Museum - Renzo Piano Pavilion, 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd., Fort Worth, 817-3328451, kimbellart.org.
JACKSON POLLOCK: BLIND SPOTS Through Mar. 20. This once-in-a-lifetime exhibition offers a new perspective on the work of one of the most famous artists of the 20th century. See it only at the DMA. For tickets, visit dma.org. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood, Dallas, dma.org.
FIRST THURSDAY LATE NIGHTS 7-9pm. February - Feel the power of discovery through electrifying experiments and activities exploring light, electricity, currents and circuits. All you need to get in on the fun is the cost of general admission, so purchase your tickets online early. Your exhibit hall ticket on the date of First Thursday Late Night gives you FREE access to our special programming that evening. The Perot Museum will stay open from 10am-9pm first Thursdays. Come early and stay late! Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas, 214-4285555, www.perotmuseum.org.
FRI 5 NATURE CONNECTS, A LEGO® BRICK ART EXHIBIT Through April 10. The excitement is building! We’re thrilled to announce our newest exhibit, Nature Connects, a remarkable sculpture show created by artist Sean Kenney using LEGO bricks, at the Dallas Zoo. The installation features 16 displays created from 24 sculptures depicting scenes from the natural world, each
carefully built with thousands of LEGO pieces by Kenney.See how one small LEGO® brick, when thoughtfully placed with thousands of others, becomes a larger-than-life hummingbird frozen in flight, a peacock displaying his colorful feathers or a Galapagos tortoise with a Darwin finch perched on its back. These sculptures connect guests to nature and have a big impact in awe-inspiring ways. Dallas Zoo, 650 S. R.L. Thorton Freeway, Dallas, 469554-7500, www.dallaszoo.com.
THE HOCKADAY SCHOOL PRESENTS “CURTAINS” Feb. 5-7. The Hockaday upper school musical, “Curtains”. Contact the Eisemann Center box office for tickets and show times. Tickets $12. Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson, 972-744-4650.
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. SPURS 8:30pm - 11:00 pm American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.
SAT 6 NORTH DALLAS TOY SHOW 9am. 1st Saturday of every month at the Valley View Center Mall (inside Dallas Party Rentals Store, 1st Floor). Hot Wheels, Action Figures, Comic Books, Collectible Toys, Transformers, Matchbox cars, Star Wars, Batman, Marvel Legends, DC Comics, Star Trek, Pop Vinyl, Sci-Fi, Horror toys, Diecast cars, Vintage toys and much more! MORE THAN 50 TABLES OF FUN FOR THE ENTIRE FAMILY! Admission is $2.00 (kids under 12 are free). Valley View Center, 13331 Preston Road, Dallas, northdallastoyshow.wix.com/toys.
CLONE TROOPERS INVADE NEW LEGO STAR WARS MINILAND MODEL DISPLAY 10am. LEGOLAND Discovery Center offers a full year of galactic fun with a new LEGO Star Wars MINILAND Model Display, debuting to the public on February 6, 2016. The exhibit depicts the First Battle of Geonosis in Star Wars Episode II: Attack of the Clones. Fans will marvel at the replicas of a Gladiator-style battle between Jedi and Geonosians on Geonosis, Jango Fett Clones lining up on Kamino, Jango Fett battling Anakin Skywalker featuring Slave Ship 1 and Boba Fett, plus many more. Included in the price of admission. LEGOLAND Discovery Center, 3000 Grapevine Mills Pkwy, Grapevine, 877-818-1677, www. legolanddiscoverycenter.com/dfw.
“OH THIS LEARNING, WHAT A THING IT IS!” - A CHILDREN’S SHAKESPEARE PERFORMANCE 11am. Guess which words we still use today that Shakespeare actually invented.
The results may surprise you! Join us for an educational and hilarious production featuring scenes from As You Like It, A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and Romeo and Juliet in Shakespearean costumes. Dallas Central Library, 1515 Young Street, Dallas, 214-670-1400.
FAMILY EXPERIMENTS WITH THE PEROT MUSEUM 11am-2pm, Perot Museum of Nature and Science hosts fun family activities in the Children’s Park. Klyde Warren Park, Children’s Park, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, 214-716-4500.
FAMILY DAY AT SPARK 1-4pm. Join us for at Family Day at SPARK! Creative fun for the whole family! Open to families with children in 2nd grade through high school. No drop-offs. Admission is $10 at the door – cash, check, or credit card payments accepted. Spark Dallas, 1409 S. Lamar St. #004, Dallas, 214-421-7727, www.sparkdallas.org.
BULLYING PREVENTION WITH PRO MARTIAL ARTS LAKEWOOD 2pm. Join instructors from Pro Martial Arts Lakewood for a free event that teaches children how to stay safe in an increasingly dangerous world. Learn about how to protect yourself from bullies and predators along with some basic martial arts moves. Lakewood Library, 6121 Worth Street, Dallas, 214-670-1376.
DALLAS STARS VS. BLACKHAWKS 7pm.American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Lane, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.
SUN 7 SUNDAY ADVENTURES AT THE LIBRARY! 3:30pm. Campfire Stories-Bring your family and adventure with us through stories, crafts, movies, and games! We will be doing different activities every week with an all-ages approach in mind so that the entire family can have fun. Preston Royal Library, 5626 Royal Lane, Dallas, 214-670-7128.
“THE MAN WITH BOGART’S FACE” BY GARLAND CIVIC THEATRE Through February 13. Call box office for specific show times/dates and ticket information. Garland Civic Theatre presents the hard-boiled mystery, “The Man With Bogart’s Face” by Andrew J. Fenady. There’s a plot full of twists and turns, intrigue, greed and deadly danger. This play has its heart rooted in the heritage of good old movies. Granville Arts Center - Small Theatre, 300 N. Fifth Street, Garland, 972-205-2790.
Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
17
STORY TIMES
KNOW IT ALL TUE 9
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. JAZZ
1-4pm. Bring the whole family for a Valentine’s Day celebration at NorthPark Center. Enjoy a chamber concert of love songs from the Dallas Symphony Orchestra, engaging crafts for the kids, cookie decorating with Green House Market, children’s entertainment from Bookmarks and more. NorthPark Center, 8687 N. Central Expressway, Dallas, 214363-7441.
7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.
SECOND SATURDAYS
MUSIC AND STORIES WITH KIDWORKS
HIGHLAND PARK LIBRARY
4700 Drexel Dr., 214-559-9400 Wed - Lapsit Story Time 10am (ages 0-24 mos) Thur - Toddler Story Time 10am (2 year olds) Fri - Preschool Story Time 10am (3 & 4 year olds)
UNIVERSITY PARK LIBRARY 3800 University Blvd, 214-363-9095
Wed - Story Time 3:45pm (ages 4 &-5) Thur - Toddler Story Time, 10:45am
RENNER FRANKFORD BRANCH 6400 Frankford Road, 214-670-6100 Tue - Tales for Tots 10:30am (ages 3-5), Tue - Baby Bounce 11:15am (infants & toddlers)
BOOKMARKS (at North Park Mall)
8687 N. Central Expressway, Suite 1514, 214-671-1381 Mon - NorthCourt - Baby Bounce Basics 10:30am (up to 24 mos.) Mon - Inside Bookmarks - Baby Bounce Basics 12:30pm (up to 24 mos.) Wed - Inside Bookmarks - Wiggly, Waggly Words 3:30pm (preschoolers) Thur - NorthCourt - Tickles for Toddlers 10:30am & 3:30pm (2 & 3 year olds) Thur - Inside Bookmarks – Baby Bounce Basics , 12:30pm (up to 24 mos.) Fri - Inside Bookmarks - Baby Bounce Basics 12:30pm (up to 24 mos.) Fri - Inside Bookmarks – Preschool Palooza - 3:30pm (ages 2-4)
LAKEWOOD BRANCH LIBRARY 6121 Worth Street, 214-670-1376
Wed - Boogie Woogie Books 10:30am (ages 6 & under)
AUDELIA ROAD BRANCH LIBRARY 10045 Audelia Road, 214-670-1350 Fri - Boogie Woogie Books 10:30am (ages 6 & under)
MESQUITE Main Branch
300 W. Grubb Dr., 972-216-6220
Tues - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5; Evening Story Time 7pm, all ages Wed - Infant Lapsit Story Time 9:30am, ages 6-12mo; Young & Restless Story Time 10:30am, 13mo -2yrs Thu - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 18mo-3yrs Sat - Story Time 11am, ages 6-18mo
MESQUITE North Branch
2600 Oates Dr., 972-681-0465
Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5 Thu - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages 18mo-3yrs All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes. Call to confirm as schedules are subject to change.
18
dallas parent
CELEBRATE VALENTINE’S DAY AT NORTHPARK CENTER
11:00am. Grab the kiddos for a storytelling session in the park! Klyde Warren Park, The Dallas Morning News Reading & Games Room, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, 214-716-4500.
FRI 12 ROCK & WORSHIP ROADSHOW 7:30pm. Christian music favorites Newsboys, Jeremy Camp and Mandisa will be performing, along with Phil Wickham, Family Force 5 and Audio Adrenaline. A Pre-show Party will take place before each show with artists Danny Gokey (host) and Citizen Way, and Shaun Groves returns to the Rock & Worship Roadshow as the event’s guest speaker. Tickets $20. Visit website for more information and to purchase tickets. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.americanairlinescenter. com/events/detail/the-rock-worshiproadshow.
SAT 13 YU-GI-OH COMES HOME 10:30am-5pm. What better way to jump start the spring than with a monster duel?! Join us as another all day tournament of mayhem and monsters ensues. There will be snacks, drinks and Yu-Gi-Oh cards, what could be better? Park Forest Library, 3421 Forest Lane, Dallas, 214-670-6333.
CHINESE NEW YEAR STREET FESTIVAL 11am-7:30pm. A spectacular Dragon and Lion Dance, cultural performances, martial arts demos, live music, food trucks, fireworks, arts and crafts, wellness activities and Museum tours are on tap as the Crow Collection of Asian Art host its biggest-ever street festival celebrating Chinese New Year - Year of the Monkey. Free and open to the public, the 17th annual festival takes place in the Dallas Arts District Saturday (Feb. 13). Highlights include traditional Chinese New Year art-making activities such as decorating red envelopes and making sheep headbands and glowing paper lanterns, plus calligraphy demonstrations, face painting, fortune telling, photo booth and family yoga. The day also includes nonstop entertainment on the Main Stage. Crow Collection of Asian Art, 2010 Flora Street, Dallas, www.crowcollection.org.
7-10pm. The community and beyond enjoy an evening of art, music, food and spirits every second Saturday in Downtown McKinney. Guests can explore local art galleries, listen to great local and regional talent and taste specialties in some of the area’s best eateries. Many establishments in Downtown McKinney will keep their doors open from 7 to 10 p.m. Historic Downtown McKinney, 111 N. Tennessee, McKinney, 972-547-2660.
DALLAS STARS VS. CAPITALS 7pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.
WED 17 PREVIEW LUNCH & TOUR AT GRACE ACADEMY OF DALLAS 12pm. Please call for reservations. Grace Academy of Dallas, 11306 Inwood Road, Dallas, 214-696-5648, graceacademy.com. See ad in this issue.
FRI 19 LATE NIGHTS AT THE DMA 6pm. Join us on the third Friday of each month, when the Museum is open until midnight. Each Late Night offers hundreds of experiences for visitors of all ages with performances, concerts, readings, film screenings, tours, talks, family programs, and more! Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 North Harwood Street, Dallas, dma.org.
‘TIL MIDNIGHT AT THE NASHER 6pm. The Nasher Sculpture Garden is a rare gem any old time of the year, but on the third Friday of every month it transforms into the city’s most bucolic outdoor concert and film screening venue. Each event is a little different, with scavenger hunts, progressive museum tours, and special exhibitions. Admission is free, but reservations for picnic dining must be made in advance. Beat the deadline by requesting your space online. Nasher Sculpture Garden, 2001 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-242-5100, www. nashersculpturecenter.org.
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
SAT 20 DALLAS PETS ALIVE! DOG ADOPTIONS 10am-3pm. Join Dallas Pets Alive! for an adoption event at Klyde Warren Park Klyde Warren Park, Ginsburg Family Great Lawn, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, 214-716-4500,
DALLAS STARS VS. BRUINS 7pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Lane, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.
SUN 21 RICHARDSON COMMUNITY BAND PRESENTS “HOORAY FOR HOLLYWOOD” 3pm. This performance is free and open to the public. The Eisemann Center, 2351 Performance Drive, Richardson, www. richardsoncommunityband.org.
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. 76ERS 6pm/ American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.
MON 22 ENGINEERS WEEK AT THE PEROT Runs Feb. 22-27, 10am-2pm. Build, break, create! Students, educators and families alike are invited to explore the field of engineering firsthand through interactive demonstrations, experiments and gallery experiences with professional engineers and educators. There is no additional cost for Engineers Week programs at the Perot Museum. To participate in Engineers Week, simply buy a general admission ticket or book your school field trip at the Perot Museum during this time period. Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas, 214-428-5555, www. perotmuseum.org.
WED 24 MADE IN AMERICA, LONE STAR YOUTH ORCHESTRA 7pm. The Lone Star Youth Orchestra invites you to join them for a celebration of American composers. Program will feature works of Copland, Whitacre and Bernstein with very special guest, the 2nd place winner of the LSYO’s Concerto Competition. Tickets $6.50 - $13.50 Irving Arts Center, 3333 N. MacArthur Blvd., Irving, 972-2527558, irvingartscenter.com.
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. THUNDER 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.
the best
THU 25 DALLAS STARS VS. JETS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.
FRI 26 STORY TIME AT THE INTERURBAN RAILWAY MUSEUM IN PLANO 10:30am. Every Friday morning at 10:30 in the lobby of the historic Interurban Railway Museum in downtown Plano, spellbound children take a magical train ride through the tales of professional storyteller Genie Hammel and her sidekick Eugene the Motor Mouse. The 30-minute fun-filled, interactive experience is aimed at toddlers and preschool children. However, kids of all ages are welcome and often attend. Interurban Railway Museum, 901 E. 15th Street, Plano, 972-241-2117, www. planoconservancy.org.
DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. NUGGETS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.
SAT 27 DALLAS BLOOMS: THE ARTISTRY IN NATURE Feb. 27 - Apr. 10. The largest floral festival in the Southwest, Dallas Blooms returns with the theme ”The Artistry in Nature” featuring renowned sculptor Gary Lee Price’s Great Contributors exhibit on display throughout the garden. The garden explodes with 100 kinds of spring bulbs totaling 500,000 blooms and dazzling layers of landscape at every turn. The Great Contributors exhibit is a part of Gary Lee Price’s renowned art collection. A fellow of the National Sculpture Society, Price has been recognized worldwide for his bold work lifting and celebrating the human spirit. The life-size bronze sculptures that will be placed throughout the spring garden include Abraham Lincoln, Benjamin Franklin, George Washington, Claude Monet, Albert Einstein, William Shakespeare, Mark Twain and the Wright Brothers, many of which are on benches or in garden settings. Dallas Blooms features tulips, daffodils, Dutch Iris and hyacinths, pansies, violas, poppies and thousands of other springblooming annuals and perennials. The finale of this spring celebration is the mass flowering of the garden’s collection of 3,000 azaleas that bloom during the end
of April. Dallas Arboretum, 8525 Garland Road, Dallas, www.dallasarboretum.org.
INSTRUMENT PETTING ZOO WITH SCHOOL OF ROCK 3pm. School of Rock gets the park rocking with a variety of instruments for you to try! Klyde Warren Park, Ginsburg Family Great Lawn, 2012 Woodall Rodgers Freeway, Dallas, 214-716-4500.
DALLAS STARS VS. RANGERS
summer
2016
camps online directory @ suburbanparent.com
3pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Lane, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.
SUN 28 DALLAS MAVERICKS VS. TIMBERWOLVES 6pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, www.mavs.com.
MON 29 2016 DART STUDENT ART CONTEST ENTRY DEADLINE Enter your art to win a spot on DART buses and trains, plus $1000 or other prizes. This year’s theme is DART to discovery. For complete rules, visit DART. org/artcontest. See ad in this issue.
DALLAS STARS VS. RED WINGS 7:30pm. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Lane, Dallas, stars.nhl.com.
SAVE THE DATE… MAR 19 10TH ANNUAL KIDSFEST 2016 11am-2pm. This year’s theme is “Healthy Minds, Healthy Bodies” and will focus on teaching children the benefits of healthy living. The event will be filled with entertainment and high-energy activities for children including a huge egg hunt, face painting, video game trucks, bounce houses and more. Benefitting Galaxy Counseling Center. Firewheel Town Center, Garland. See ad in this issue.
JUN 13-17 2016 SUMMER CHESS CAMP AT UT DALLAS Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-14. Morning (9am-noon) and afternoon (1-4pm) plus extended playing classes available. Other camps Jun 20-24, Jul 18-22 & Jul 25-29. Register at www.utdallas.edu/chess. See ad in this issue.
Please note: Although we strive to bring you the most current information available regarding event dates and times, confirming with the event venue before going is always a good idea.
Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
19
FUN STUFF { LIFE IS BETTER WHEN YOU’RE LAUGHING }
I’M TWO MONTHS PREGNANT NOW. WHEN WILL MY BABY MOVE?
AT WHAT TIME DO MOST PEOPLE GO TO THE DENTIST? AT TOOTH-HURTY (2:30)
THAT’S RIGHT. THESE MOSQUITOES COME FROM THE CAMP DOWN THE ROAD. Source: jokes4us.com; peek-a-boo-pregnancy.com; kidsjokes.co.uk
WITH ANY LUCK, RIGHT AFTER HE FINISHES HIGH SCHOOL.
“FOR THIS CHILD I PRAYED, AND THE LORD HAS GRANTED ME MY PETITION, WHICH I ASKED OF HIM.”
I THOUGHT YOU SAID THIS CAMP HAS NO MOSQUITOES?
recycle TIP
Be good to your baby, your bag and the environment Stop using plastic baggies and start recycling your baby food containers. They work great as snack holders. They’re the perfect size plus they protect snacks from getting smashed in the bottom of your bag. Hooray for whole cheerios! See more amazing baby food jar hacks at www.pinterest.com/suburbanparent/baby-food-jars-repurposed
TRY THIS ONE...
Pucker Up Valentine! Fill a baby food jar (or a mason jar) with lemon drops. Create a cute tag, using yellow card stock, and with small alphabet stamps (or your own penmanship) add the words “Pucker Up Valentine!” on the tag. Cut two leaves from green card stock and attach with adhesive. Punch a small hole on top and use twine to tie to jar. You can write a lil’ love note on the back of the tag too?
– 1 SAMUEL 1:27
LOL WITH JAMES ESTES!
Excerpted from shakentogetherlife.com
GOTTA LOVE ‘EM My 4 year old nephew, Paul, was delighted to find a bird’s nest in a small tree in his back yard. When his mother lifted him up to take a peek, he discovered 4 tiny speckled eggs inside. Each day, he checked on his newly found treasure, anticipating the arrival of the baby birds. Finally, the waiting was over, hearing chirping sounds coming from the nest, Paul ran inside to tell his mother the good news. “Mom” he yelled, “the baby birds bloomed?”
SUBMIT YOUR FUNNY STORY: editor@suburbanparent.com, subject “Funny”
20
dallas parent
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
the best
summer
2016
camps CAMP SUMMIT ........................................... 17 972-484-8900 www.campsummittx.org COLOR ME EMPOWERED........................ 17 214-729-2499 www.colormeempowered.org
BARRIE BARBER CHOATE
214-361-5437 • www.starkidsdentist.com • See ad on p. 11
CUB CREEK SCIENCE CAMP..................11 www.mosciencecamp.com
JOEL B. SHIELDS DDS
TEXAS PREMIER YOUTH SPORTS.........9 469-834-8450
MOTHERS’ MILK BANK OF NORTH TEXAS
UTD CHESS CAMP.....................................15 972-883-4899 www.utdallas.edu/chess
972-270-7535 • See ad on p. 9
817-810-0071 • www.texasmilkbank.org • See ad on p. 13
See complete 2016 Camp Directory online at suburbanparent.com
Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
FEBRUARY 2016 dallas parent
21
BACKTALK { BY KEN SWARNER }
>
RULES TO HELP on Valentine’s D
M
ay
4
y wife and I have been together since our junior year in high school. In dog years, that is 161 Valentine’s Days. While some men (men with a death wish) may not
gift, as are flowers, chocolates, and
silky pajamas. Not appropriate are snow
already be thinking about Valentine’s Day, now is the
tires, high-waist granny panties, clearance
time to start planning your attack—unless, of course, your plan this year
Christmas decorations, or anything NASCAR.
5
hinges on a table for two at McDonald’s and candies from her Christmas stocking. In that case, I hope you can out-run your wife.
It’s important to be able to interpret your honey’s thoughts and feelings before the big
I’m somewhat of an expert when it comes to how husbands and
day. When she says: “For Valentine’s Day, dinner
boyfriends should behave on Valentine’s Day. And, in the interest of
at home is fine with me—we don’t need to go out
science and personal safety, I would like to present my...
to a romantic restaurant.” What she really means is: ”I hope you enjoy sleeping on the couch.”
Top 10 Rules for Men Who Want to Stay Out of The Dog House
1
When she says: “You don’t have to do anything fancy for me like flowers or chocolates.” What she really means is: ”I hope you enjoy
The three questions every man should ask himself about the
sleeping on the couch.” When she says: “I don’t
Valentine’s gift he is about to give: a. Is it romantic?
need to do or receive anything for Valentine’s Day this year. Let’s skip it.”
b. Will it be an accurate measure of the love in our relationship?
What she really means is: ”I hope you enjoy sleeping on the couch.”
c. If the answers to both the first two questions are no, if thrown at me, will the gift cause a concussion?
2
The single satin rose in cellophane at the gas station is not appropriate. Sure, I understand that guys like to be efficient with
their time and could pick up a quart of oil and a pack of sunflower seeds at the same time, but the only guy who should consider the lame satin rose would be four and a half feet and calling his special girl “mommy.”
3
The three questions every guy should ask himself before buying the slinky baby-doll nightie for his special girl:
a. Do I really want to see her in a teddy? b. Does she really want me to see her in a teddy? c. What will we say when we find our children with the teddy…
outside…playing dress up with the neighbor kids?
22
Jewelry is always an appropriate
dallas parent
6 7 8
Diamonds in lieu of flowers is fine. Olde English 800 in lieu of flowers, not so fine. Valentine flowers are meant to be red roses, not orange . . . carnations. Don’t ask her where she wants to go for Valentine’s Day. Women already feel they do everything in the relationship (as well as
around the house, for the children and with your mother) — don’t add fuel to the fire.
9 10
Don’t think that you always need to out-do the previous year, unless of course, last year you were in jail. Six words she doesn’t want to hear come out of your mouth on Valentine’s Day: “My mom made it for you.” Three words she
does want to hear: “I love you.” Good Luck! SP
FEBRUARY 2016 Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Dallas Parent!
Want to be on This List for 2016? Call Us Today
Engel & Völkers Dallas Flower Mound +1 972 388-5008 Located in The Shops at Lakeside 2451 Lakeside Parkway, Suite 180
Engel & Völkers Dallas Southlake +1 817 416-2700 Across from Town Square and the Police Dept. 640 North Carroll Avenue, Suite 100
roxann.taylor@evusa.com | +1 817 312-7100
dallas.evusa.com
©2015 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.