Fun Advice to Introduce Kids to Gardening

manageable for little helpers.

• Let the kids choose what to plant. Whether flowers or food plants, allow children to make their own decisions (within reason) about what they would like to grow. This can help them engage in the magic of watching items they selected emerge from the ground and grow into their finished forms.

• Encourage exposure to unfamiliar plants that entice the senses with appealing smells and flavors. Herbs such as chives, mint and basil are good choices, or consider edible flowers such as pansies or violets.

• Set an example for your child to imitate by giving regular and proper care to your own garden.

Remember to bring the lesson full circle by enjoying the bounty of your garden together, whether it’s a small hand-cut bouquet or a meal featuring your child’s fresh-grown produce. Find more tips for gardening with your kids at eLivingtoday.com. (Family Features)

What to plant in South Florida?

South Florida has a unique climate - it is best to choose herbs, plants and veggies that can tolerate the heat!

Here are suggestions on what to plant in the next upcoming months from Environmental Horticulture Department, UF/IFAS Extension

May: Plant heat-loving herbs like basil, Mexican tarragon, ginger, cumin, rosemary. Vegetables - sweet potatoes, boniato, hot peppers and tropical "spinach" such as Sisso, Malabar and New Zealand.

June: Flowering plants that can take full sun during the increasingly hot summer months include celosia, portulaca, vinca, pentas, and some coleus. Plant heat-loving herbs, including basil, ginger, summer savory, cumin, Mexican tarragon, and rosemary. Summer's warm, rainy months are the perfect time to plant palms. Make sure not to cover the trunk with soil.

July: While summer is too hot to start herbs from seeds, many, such as oregano and mint, do well if started from small plants. Bulbs: Butterfly lily and gladiolus are bulbs that can be planted during the middle of summer. Plant tropical vegetables, such as boniato, calabaza, and chayote this month. Continue planting palms while the rainy season is in full swing. Support large palms with braces for 6–8 months after planting. Do not drive nails directly into a palm trunk.

August: Start planting eggplant, okra, peppers, pumpkin, squashes, and tomatoes for the fall garden. Herbs that can be planted from plants (not seeds) include bay laurel, ginger, Mexican tarragon, and rosemary.

Complete South Florida Gardening Calendar https://edis.ifas.ufl.edu/publication/EP452

According to AAA booking data, international travel is up more than 200% compared to 2022. Hotel bookings are seeing the biggest jump, up more than 300% over last year. The spike in demand is driving up airfares. Ticket prices for international trips are up more than 30%. “Travelers are making up for lost time and willing to spend more to see the world,” said Paula Twidale, Senior Vice President of Travel at AAA.

“If you do your homework and rely on travel experts, like AAA travel advisors, there are deals to be had. But the key is giving yourself plenty of time to plan ahead.” Europe and Canada are the most popular international destinations, per AAA’s data. London tops the list, with a nearly 350% increase over last year. Rome, Paris, Dublin, and Barcelona are other European hot spots. Vancouver, Toronto, and Calgary are the most popular Canadian destinations.

From Globetrotters to First Timers, Travelers are Seeing the World in 2023

AAA shares booking data, top destinations, and travel advice

International trips are on the rise

“There’s nothing like going abroad. Personally, I just renewed my passport for a long overdue trip to see family in the United Kingdom,” Twidale added. “There’s excitement this year for international travel but also a lot of questions about everything from passports to travel insurance.”

10 Ways to Prepare for International Travel

Prioritize Your Passport

You can’t travel internationally without a passport. If you don’t have one, apply ASAP! The U.S. Department of State issues passports, and routine service normally takes 8 to 11 weeks. But pandemic-related application backlogs coupled with a surge in travel demand are leading to longer wait times, anywhere from 10 to 13 weeks. Even some expedited services are seeing delays of about 7 to 9 weeks. If you already have a passport, check the expiration date. Some countries require passports be valid for six months beyond your departure date from the United States. Your destination might also require a travel visa.

Follow The Leader

First-time travelers – or people who haven’t been abroad in years – greatly benefit from guided tours, where an expert is the one leading the way. Guided tours are a great way to explore the world without the stress of planning daily itineraries. According to AAA Member Choice Vacations, the most popular tours for new travelers are London & Paris, British Landscapes, and Ireland.

Been There, Done That? Try This

Specializing

Michael J. Roseff, DMD, LLC

For travelers who’ve already checked Europe off their list and are craving something different, trips focused on adventure and local culture are rising in popularity. Club Adventures by AAA, says Antarctica, Costa Rica, Iceland, Peru, Morocco, and Vietnam are destinations in high demand. They say more travelers are seeking authenticity and connection on their international trips. “Today’s travelers are reshaping what it means to connect with a destination. They are seeking authenticity and understanding, they long to see the world through a local lens,” said Allison Villasenor, Club Adventures Managing Director.

Unpack Once, See The World

Travelers wanting to experience multiple destinations without staying at multiple hotels are booking cruises. This year, cruising is in high demand. AAA booking data shows cruises departing from international destinations are up 30% compared to 2022. Cruises sailing in Nothern Europe, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean are among the most popular.

Renting A Car? You’ll Need This

Many countries require an International Driving Permit (IDP) to drive legally. An IDP is a valid form of identification that includes your name, photo, and driver information. Even if a country doesn’t require an IDP, your rental car company might. An IDP must be issued in the same country as the driver’s license of the traveler and may not be issued more than six months before the desired effective date. AAA is one of only two private entities in the U.S. authorized by the U.S. Department of State to issue an IDP.

Protect Your Investment

Travel insurance is always a good idea but even more so if you’re traveling internationally.

Protecting your trip is highly recommended in case of trip delay, expenses incurred from missed flights, lost luggage, or medical expenses due to illness or injury. The best way to determine what type of coverage you need is by reaching out to a trusted travel advisor, like a AAA Travel Agent. That person will help you choose the right plan to gain a clear understanding as to which policy (your personal health coverage or your travel insurance company’s coverage) is primary or secondary. It’s important to know how much coverage the policy offers and what is and is not covered.

Ways to save

One of the best ways to save money on international travel is to be flexible with your dates. Traveling during the off-season can mean better deals and fewer crowds. For example, going to Europe in October or February can save you money on airfare and lodging. Another way to spend less is flying on Tuesdays and Wednesdays. Mid-week flights tend to be cheaper, as many airlines add weekend surcharges. When booking a hotel, try to avoid properties in the city center, which tend to be pricier. Also, find out how much the hotel charges in resort fees, parking, and internet — all of that adds up!

Enroll In Step

Download the State Department’s Smart Traveler app for detailed information regarding countries around the world and up-to-date travel advisories. While you’re on the app or on the State Department website, enroll in STEP (Smart Traveler Enrollment Program) to notify the State Department of your trip, so they can alert you of any unrest or advisories at your destination.

Take It From The Pros

AAA Diamonds Inspectors know a thing or two about travel. They log thousands of miles every year, inspecting hotels and restaurants, verifying the 4Cs of AAA Diamonds: Cleanliness, Comfort, Cuisine, and Consistency. Here are some pro tips from AAA Inspectors on international travel.

“Notify your credit card company of your trip and check foreign transaction fees. Use ATMs instead of exchange houses and always choose local currency if given the choice with credit card transactions.”

“Take a photo or make a copy of your passport and keep that with you. Secure your physical passport in the hotel safe while you’re sightseeing.”

“If traveling with a significant other or close friend, split your clothes into two bags, so if one suitcase is delayed or lost, you both have clothing. If traveling alone, put a few clothing items in your carry-on.”

”If you’re checking a suitcase and carrying on a roller bag, put the heaviest items in your carry- on. That way, you avoid paying an overweight fee on your suitcase, and if the airline forces you to check your carry-on anyway because there’s no overhead bin space, you won’t have to pay a checked bag fee either.”

“Compression socks for the flight!”

“Divide your cash into separate purses or pockets. In the unlikely event you are robbed, all your money won’t be taken.”

“To help with jet lag: Avoid caffeine and alcohol on the flight. If it’s daylight when you arrive, stay outside as much as possible to get natural light exposure. Avoid naps and try to stay awake until a normal sleeping hour at your destination.”

AAA provides roadside assistance, travel, discounts, and financial and insurance services to enhance the life journey of more than 63 million members across North America, including more than 56 million in the United States. To learn more about all AAA has to offer or to become a member, visit AAA.com.

BY AMY BERGMAN

The month of May ushers in a whole lot of “occasions”—Mother’s Day, graduations, Father’s Day, weddings, etc. Now is the perfect time to make sure your gift giving supplies are organized and easily accessible.

Below are 5 easy ways to get your supplies organized now and save you lots of time and energy all season long.

1. One of my favorite ways to organize and store gift bags and boxes is vertically in a large basket. You can easily see how many you have and quickly find and grab the one you want without having to sort through piles.

2. For small to medium bags and boxes, magazine holders are a fast and easy solution.

3. If you don’t keep a lot of gift-wrapping supplies on hand and prefer an all-in-one option, a gift wrap bag from Ikea is a great and affordable option. It keeps all your supplies in one convenient, easy-tocarry storage bag which can fit under a bed. If you have space in a closet, perhaps a hanging organizer would be better for you.

4. Laundry hampers aren't just for laundry anymore. If you live in a small space and don't have a whole closet to devote to wrapping supplies, a laundry basket tucked somewhere discrete will still do the trick. Choose one that doesn’t taper towards the bottom to maximize capacity. A large umbrella stand can also be a gift wrap holder.

5. Are you a maximalist when it comes to gift giving and have LOTS of gift wrapping supplies? Then maybe it’s time to splurge and invest in a gift wrap station from The Container Store.

Here’s a bonus organization hack to stop gift wrap rolls from unravelling. Gift wrap rolls are long, awkward and tend to unwind and tear. Use an inexpensive slap bracelet (found at a Dollar Store or online) around the roll. For a free option, cut a slit in a toilet paper roll and use it as a cuff.

Happy gift giving, Amy

Amyzing Spaces provides professional organization for your home & office! Amy Bergman, a native Floridan, has always had a passion for organizing & simplifying things in life. She would love to help you make your space Amyzing!!! Check out her website at www.amyzingspaces.com, and you will see how she works with her clients to organize spaces in their homes & offices, creating systems that work for them so they can achieve more calm in their space and be even more productive & efficient with their time. You can also follow her on Facebook & Instagram. She posts excellent organizational tips and resources there as well.

Vero Beach

Every Saturday in May - McKee Botanical Garden Pirate & Fairy Celebration Saturdays

10 am – 3 pm. McKee Members – free / Nonmembers free with paid Garden admission. Make-and-take crafts (while supplies last), Temporary Tattoos, Games, Fairy House Building, Live Entertainment, Balloon Twisting, Fairy Hair Applications, Live Pirate and Maritime Music, Magician Michael Van Ness, Captain Jack Sparrow. www.mckeegarden.org

May 13 & 14 - Vero Beach Seafood Festival - Enjoy some of the freshest Seafood in South Florida and enjoy a diverse variety of delectable dishes and tasty libations. Fear not ye landlubbers, thar will also be plenty of non-seafood menu selections to choose from. The Vero Beach Seafood Festival will also play host to some great live entertainment, interesting exhibits & displays, an assortment of Arts & Craft Vendors, an Interactive Pirate Encampment, Live Mermaids, a Kids’ Fun Zone & a whole lot more. Riverside Park Drive, Vero Beach, FL FREE Admission & FREE Parking Saturday 11 am to 6 pm & Sunday 11 am to 5pm

Ft. Pierce

May 5 - Friday Fest by Main Street Ft. Pierce. The longest-running street party on the Treasure Coast filled with live music, food vendors, arts and crafts, and activities for all ages will be on hand. 5:30 pm8:30 pm.

May 7 - 3rd Annual F.A.B Moms Brunch - Come join like-minded women for an event of inspiration, massive action, and connection. The F.A.B Moms Brunch celebrates Moms in business who took a leap of faith recently and start their own business in 2021, or 2022. This award is for the Boss Mom who is making a difference in our community, she makes a stand against community issues and pushes the needle to improve the Treasure Coast. 11:30amtickets $30 - Tickets available on EventBrite.

Port. St. Lucie

May 5 & May 19 - Chow Down Food Trucks - Join us in Tradition Square every first and third Friday of the month from 5:00-9:00 PM as Tradition kicks off the weekend with a variety of tasty food trucks. Be sure to bring down your chairs to grab a bite and then listen to live music performances. 5 pm - 9 pm.

May 12 - Parents Night Out- YMCA BayshoreEach Parent’s Night Out is themed, and children will have the opportunity to play sports & games, create arts & crafts, enjoy a movie, and more. The program even includes a fresh fruit and pizza dinner. Parent’s Night Out is only $24 per child for members, $32 for non-members; siblings each save $5. Advanced registration is required.

May 26 - Game Night Glow Bubble Party -Join us at Tradition for a fun-filled kids’ game night with the bubble glow truck, Treasure Coast Bubbles! The truck will light up the night with its colorful bubbles and provide endless entertainment for kids of all ages. pm - 9 pm.

May 27 - Join your friends at Clover Park and enjoy a game by the St. Lucie Mets as we kick off our summer reading program. FREE tickets for all K-12 students and one guest. Free children's books while supplies last plus meet community partners to learn about the resources they offer and bid on custom, booked-themed jerseys. To top it all off, stick around for the post-game fireworks! This event is made possible by the Children's Services Council of St. Lucie County, the St. Lucie Chamber of Commerce, and the St. Lucie Mets.

Jensen Beach

May 5 - It will be a fiesta at The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast! On Cinco de Mayo, join us for a fun night of music, food, and piñatas. This party is for the kids! You must register ahead. Children age 6 to 12 only. 5 pm - 8 pm. $25 per child, including a Mexican meal.

May 27 - Creation Stations at The Children’s Museum of the Treasure Coast. It’s time to get creative! Visitors will have an opportunity to explore their imagination through these hands-on projects. And you’ll be able to take home your art project! 11:30 am - 1:30 pm.

Hobe Sound

May 12 - Chow Down Hobe Sound Food Trucks is every Second Friday of the month. Join us at J.V Reed Park in the heart of Hobe Sound. Sit back and relax, and have dinner & dessert from Florida gourmet food trucks. Enjoy your choice of different cuisines each food truck has a different setup, and they will present their signature dishes and offer a wide variety of menus. All meals are freshly prepared and cooked to order!!! Start serving from 5 PM-9 PM. Want the latest events?

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