Moments Magazine by Forsyth County News

March-April 2012

Leading By Example Fostering Hope

Spring Colors In Style Drawing On Decades Past

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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We have one specialty. Your kids.

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Neighborhood Location Near You Children’s Healthcare of Forsyth 410 Peachtree Pkwy, Ste 300 Cumming

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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Carla Marsh all Signin 11:00 am - 3 g Event pm

Shoot from the Hip “It’s Raining Fashionistas! Umbrella Promotion! Mar 2-17

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John Hall Publisher Kevin Atwill Editor Adlen Robinson Director of Content Ryan Garmon Advertising Director Autumn Vetter Photographer Jeff Bucchino Graphic Design Contributing Writers Stephen Garton Alyssa LaRenzie Crystal Ledford Jennifer Sami

Contents 8 Moments Mom

Meet Ashley Anderson, whose experience as a foster mother has helped shape her career.

10 Dinner Matters

Every mother knows the stress of having no idea what’s for dinner. Stir fry to the rescue!

12 Fashion

The styles for Easter 2012 draw on decades past. Here’s a sampling of spring’s trendiest looks.

18 Book Clubs

Many neighborhoods in Forsyth County boast book clubs. For the Blue Stockings, organization is key.

ForsythMom - Page 8

Moments Magazine

is published bimonthly by the Forsyth County News Co., 302 Veterans Memorial Boulevard, Cumming, GA 30040. Advertising rates and deadlines available upon request. Contact Ryan Garmon at (770) 205-8960 or rgarmon@forsythnews.com. Follow us online at forsythnews.com, as well as:

Moms at Work �� 15 Home Matters �� 20 School Spotlight �� 22 Smart Snacking �� 25

Facebook.com/ForsythMoments

For the Health of It �� 26

Twitter.com/ForsythMoments

Community Notes �� 28

and

The Amateur Wine Enthusiast �� 9

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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is now a multi-artist gallery that features Thomas Kinkade, Mark Keathley, Andy Thomas and several others.

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Welcome to

reetings and welcome to our first issue of Moments: A Magazine For and About Moms and women. We are excited about this new project, which promises to be an adventure for all involved! Our goal is twofold. First, we hope to offer the moms and all of the women of Forsyth County a variety of interesting and useful information on a wide range of topics. Each issue will include features ranging from easy ways to get dinner on the table and organizational tips to make life easier to useful womenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health information and time-saving strategies for work and home life. There will also be pieces on gardening, items pertaining to children and teenagers, and much more. Second, and perhaps most importantly, we want to spotlight moms in our community who are making a difference. Whether working in our community, volunteering, or both, these â&#x20AC;&#x153;Moments Moms of the Monthâ&#x20AC;? are worth getting to know. Our first Moments Mom is Ashley Anderson, executive director of the nonprofit Supporting Adoption and Foster Families Together, or SAFFT. Ashley is a lovely person and I hope everybody will take note of her contributions to our community. We hope you enjoy Moments and please know that we welcome your feedback and suggestions! Best, Adlen W. Robinson

Adlen W. Robinson is a longtime resident of Forsyth County and mother of four. A contributor to the Forsyth County News for more than 10 years, Adlen is author of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Home Matters: The Guide to Organizing Your Life and Home.â&#x20AC;? E-mail her at contact@adlenrobinson.com.

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Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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Moments Mom

Foster the children

Own experience helped shape SAFFT director

By Adlen W. Robinson hen Ashley Anderson goes to work every day, she sees lives transformed and often bleak situations filled with hope. As the founder and executive director of the nonprofit Supporting Adoption and Foster Families Together, or SAFFT, Anderson is quick to divert attention from herself and praise others for helping her dream become a reality. “Honestly, all of the people who had a hand in helping with SAFFT’s creation would tell you it was a miracle,” she said.

Ashley Anderson, executive director for SAFFT, holds son Braxton as she talks about her experiences being a foster mom to Bridgett, who she and husband Brian have since adopted. Photos: Autumn Vetter

Wanted to ‘get involved’ The story of SAFFT in many ways reflects Anderson’s own journey with foster parenting, one that began when she was in her early 20s. “I worked for a counseling agency and I was in charge of supervising visits with foster children and their parents,” explained Anderson. “I saw so many foster parents that should not have been fostering and it really made me want to get involved.” When Anderson first approached her husband,

Brian, about the idea, he was less than enthusiastic. “We got into an argument,” Anderson remembered. “We had only been married a little while and being a foster parent was not something he was thinking about.” After persuading her husband to attend an introductory type meeting, he decided he was in. “At the time, [the Department of Family and Children Services] really tried to talk us out of it, thinking we were too young and inexperienced as far as what we were getting ourselves into,” she said. “And it really made me mad at the time, but now I understand and appreciate what they were trying to do.” As it turned out, Anderson really

didn’t realize what she had signed up for. “Our first placement was a 5-month -old little girl and she came one night when Brian happened to be away on a guys’ weekend retreat,” laughed Anderson. “She was underweight and sickly and cried constantly. It was the worst weekend of my life.” Not one to give up, Anderson and her husband continued fostering — a total of 10 children, ages 5 months to 15 years. Watching her husband serve as an amazing father figure to all of these children has also been particularly meaningful, Anderson said. “I have fallen in love with him over and over again watching him over the years.”

‘We were living it’ Fostering children can be hard work. See Foster pg. 16

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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From the Cellar

The frugal amateur wine enthusiast

et me begin by saying I have absolutely no wine certifications or titles to qualify me as a wine expert. I’ve been to my share of wine tastings and have had numerous conversations with wine experts. Well, usually it was just me listening to them talk while I offered an occasional “Oh,” or “I see.” That said, as an avid cook who pretty much lives to prepare our next meal, I have learned a few things about wine, especially when it comes to pairing it with food.

When the weather warms, I tend to lean toward lighter reds and crisp white wines. The world of wine is fascinating. As with so many things, you could spend a lifetime studying and tasting wines and still learn something new. I’m all about finding wines that taste great, complement the food I serve them with and, above all, are affordable. Primarius, a 2009 Pinot Noir from Oregon, is amazing. I love that Primarius is the Latin name for “distinguished.” Oregon is, of course, known for

producing wonderful pinots due to its soil and climate. At less than $15 a bottle, this is a great wine for a special dinner on a crisp spring night. We enjoyed it with some lamb chops and fingerling potatoes, but pinot noirs are notorious for pairing well with nearly any food. When the weather warms, I tend to lean toward lighter reds and crisp white wines. I think I have a new favorite with this Pine Ridge 2010 Chenin Blanc + Viognier.

This wine combines the fruity Chenin Blanc (79 percent) with the citrus and honeysuckle flavors of Viognier (21 percent). I tasted melon and citrus. It’s a refreshing wine that works well with seafood or on its own for sipping.  -- Adlen W. Robinson Feedback If you have a favorite (affordable) wine, please let me know at contact@adlenrobinson.com.

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Dinner Matters

Stir Fry to the Rescue!

Quick dish can save the night E

very mother knows the stress of walking through the door around dinner time and having no idea what to make. Within minutes of said arrival, the whines and complaints inevitably begin as mom scrambles to find something quick. Often, that means a phone call to the closest pizza delivery place. One solution to this quandary is a quick, delicious and healthy stir fry. Of course, if you are using all fresh vegetables, the chopping alone can take time. Enter frozen vegetables specifically for stir frying. I like to microwave them for a few minutes, so

they are not quite frozen before I fry them. While they are in the microwave, mix together this quick sauce, throw some rice in a pot (a rice cooker is even better), chop up a few fresh ingredients to elevate the stir fry, and in 15 to 20 minutes, dinner is ready! For an even extra special dinner, toss some frozen egg rolls into the oven. No need to fry these. They are delicious when baked and are low in fat and calories. For a garnish, just sprinkle on some roasted sesame seeds and you are now the dinnertime heroine! This stir fry is one of our favorites. You can vary it according to everybodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s spice level or desire for a sweeter sauce. Just add more chili paste or sugar. Always taste your sauce for seasoning before you add it to a dish. Notice that you add the sauce before the cornstarch slurry. That enables the sauce to permeate the stir fry before you add the thickener.

You can stir fry some thinly sliced beef or chicken, or use peeled and deveined shrimp. For a vegetarian dish, add some cubed tofu, or just leave out the protein altogether. This also makes wonderful leftovers, so make enough for lunch the next day!

Szechwan chili stir fry

Sauce: 3 tablespoons soy sauce 2 teaspoons sesame oil 1/4 cup dry sherry 1 tablespoon chili paste or sauce 1 tablespoon rice vinegar 1 teaspoon sugar 1/4 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes 2 teaspoons cornstarch plus 2 teaspoons cold water for slurry Stir fry: 2 tablespoons canola oil 2 cups thinly sliced beef, chicken breast, peeled and deveined raw shrimp, or tofu cubes 2 packages frozen stir fry vegetables 1/3 cup onion, chopped 1 tablespoon garlic, minced 1 1/2 tablespoons fresh ginger, minced Put frozen vegetables in a glass bowl and add one tablespoon of water. Cover and microwave until thawed, but not completely cooked, about 5 minutes. Drain and dry on a dish towel. For sauce, combine soy, sesame oil, dry sherry, chili paste, rice vinegar, sugar, and crushed red pepper flakes. Taste for seasoning. In small bowl combine the cornstarch and water and set aside. Heat a wok or large skillet over medium high heat. Add 1 tablespoon

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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of the oil and swirl around. Cook beef to desired doneness. Cook chicken until cooked through. Cook shrimp just until pink. Cook tofu until lightly browned. With slotted spoon, remove protein and set aside. Add remaining oil to wok or skillet and heat over medium high heat. Add onion and cook a few minutes until softened. Add ginger and cook a few more minutes. Add garlic and cook 30 seconds. Pour in vegetables and cook until vegetables are cooked and heated through, about 2 minutes. Pour in sauce and bring to a boil. Stir in the cornstarch slurry and cook until sauce has thickened. Serve with rice. -- Adlen W. Robinson 

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Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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Fashion

2012 styles for Easter draw on decades past Here are some of spring’s trendiest looks: By Crystal Ledford he days of demure colors and styles for Easter fashion seem to be out this year. Pastels and simple prints have been replaced with bold, bright colors and patterns, said Leslie Andert, a store team manager at Belk in Lakeland Plaza.

Orange sheath dress with peek-a-boo neck accents by ND, at Belk

“There are a lot of

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checks, geometrics

and big florals, but

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everything is still very feminine.”

“Bright colors carry through to everything,” Andert said. “There are a lot of prints and stripes, checks, geometrics and big florals, but everything is still very feminine.” Andert said this season’s looks have a lot of 1970s and ’80s influences, with almost-neon colors and strong patterns such as paisleys and thick stripes. Peggy Curry, assistant manager at Kohl’s in Cumming, said bold and bright is in, but there’s also an emphasis on femininity. Some of the trends this spring, she

Pink off-the-shoulder ruffle dress by Candy’s, at Kohl’s

Horizontal stripe dress by Tiana B., at Belk

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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said, include off-the-shoulder dresses with a lot of ruffles and floral patterns. In accessories, Curry said, the floral patterns carry over into handbags, while bright colors can also be seen in hats, scarves, cardigans and jewelry. Feathers are also big. 

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Moms at Work

Candle creator: Find time for yourself W

hen she’s not caring for her husband, two daughters and horses, Julie “Jules” Green is busy pouring candles and tending to customers at Jules Candle Shop. Located inside a refurbished old farmhouse, the shop is charming inside and out. Green first began pouring candles and creating unique scents in her basement back in 2002. At the time, she held parties, explaining how she made her candles and their unique properties. It didn’t take long for word to spread. Soon, Green moved her business to the shop on James Burgess Road in south Forsyth. All of Jules’ candles are made with essential oils and all-natural waxes. Among other qualities, they’re known for their long burn time. She has created hundreds of scents. One of the most popular, Cucumber Fresh, combines cucumber, cilantro and melon. It took a year to perfect.

“My first goal was always to produce a quality product,”

Juls Green juggles motherhood while raising two daughters and running her candle shop. Photos: Autumn Vetter

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“My first goal was always to produce a quality product,” Green said. In addition, she seeks out unusual and interesting containers in which to pour her candles. Customers can also bring in their own containers and choose a scent to go inside. Green’s candle shop is as unique as she is, overflowing with candles, handmade jewelry, art and plenty of decorative items. When asked about balancing family with work, Green said it’s all about setting boundaries. “If you are not happy, then nobody in the family really is,” Green said. “You can never please everybody. I think you really have to make sure you find time for yourself.”

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Jules Candle Shop is at 1577 James Burgess Road, Suwanee. Contact (678) 947-5272 or www.julescandles.com. Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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Moments Mom Continued from Page 8

Foster: ‘We want parents to know they are not alone’ But without resources and support, it can be 20 times more difficult to provide quality care. “Because we were living it, we could see what the needs were and we envisioned a network of support for all foster parents,” Anderson said. In January 2009, the first meeting of what would become SAFFT was held at a local library branch. After that, things began happening quickly. Since its formation, Anderson said SAFFT has provided a support network for hundreds of foster parents and adoptive families and their children.

“I saw so many foster parents that should not have been fostering and it really made me want to get involved.”

“We want parents to know that they are not alone,” she said. “If we can provide that supportive network for the parents, they can ultimately support the children.” Anderson said that at any one time, Forsyth County has about 80 children in the foster care system. “We hope that people will consider becoming foster parents. We have such a great need right now.” For those who don’t want to be a foster parent, there are still many ways to help impact the lives of these children. “My hope is that everybody will do something because these children are our future,” she said. While Ashley and Brian cared about all of the children they fostered, one little girl was particularly special, touching their lives in a way they were not expecting. In November 2008, then 8-year-old Bridgett came to stay with the couple. Ashley said she and her husband just knew Bridgett was meant to be a part of their family. “She was such a beautiful, smart and witty, talented child,” she said. “We believed in her potential for the future and felt that God had placed her in our care for a reason and we would honor the request to care for her permanently.” After about a year, they began the adoption process to make Bridgett a permanent member of their little family, and the adoption was finalized in August 2010.

Visitation center becomes reality

Ashley Anderson is mother to Bridgett, whom she and husband Brian adopted, and Braxton. Anderson is also director of SAFFT. Photos: Autumn Vetter 16

Anderson shared that Bridgett and her siblings are the main reason the SAFFT visitation center on Veterans Memorial Boulevard in Cumming came about. “It was while we were fostering her

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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Moments Mom

and her sister that Brian and I saw the incredible need for a visitation center and for some type of support system for foster parents,” she recalled. Anderson explained that when there is no specific visitation center, foster children often visit with their parents in odd locations, such as fast-food restaurants or other public places. “In August of 2009, I had a five-year goal to open a visitation

center,” she said. “By that December, we had a building.” According to Anderson, more people have supported the project than there is room or time to list. But Forsyth County Juvenile Court Judge Russell Jackson, and the 2010 class of Leadership Forsyth were instrumental early on. “We are so fortunate in our county that the agencies work well together and are so supportive of what we are trying to do,” she said. “The Juvenile Court, [Court Appointed Special Advocates], DFACS, volunteers — so many people are working together to help these foster kids, but we want everybody to get involved. “This problem is not going to go away. There are always going to be children in foster care due to no fault of their own. We desperately need people to come forward and foster these children. “It is such a tragedy when we see siblings separated from each other, taken out of their schools, and moved out of our county.” Even those who aren’t certain they want to become foster parents should at least attend a meeting, Anderson said. “It is truly a life-changing experience

and I highly recommend it.” A little more than a year ago, Ashley gave birth to Braxton, adding another child to their growing family. Bridgett loves her little brother and the feeling is obviously mutual. Bridgett is also excited that another baby is due in September. Asked about her mother, Bridgett beamed and said, “She is awesome!” No doubt, countless others in the community would echo those sentiments. 

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Book Clubs

The Blue Stockings favor historical fiction W hile many book clubs are loosely organized groups of women who get together periodically to discuss their latest selections, other clubs are a little more on the organized side. The Blue Stockings, made up of women from Three Chimney’s subdivision and two other neighborhoods, is one such group. The club first formed in 2002 when a group of friends

realized they were all voracious readers and often had the same taste in literature. Tina Nissen, one of the founding members, said they took their name from The Blue Stockings Society, which was an informal women’s movement in England in the mid-18th century. The society was a social group that emphasized education and cooperation rather than promoting individualism. Nissen said their tightly knit group certainly supports each other besides just getting Photos: together to discuss their Metro Creative latest read. “We meet monthly and whoever hosts the meeting leads the discussion,” she explained. 18

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When it comes to choosing the book of the month, Nissen said they have tried numerous “systems” over the years. Currently, the monthly hostess chooses two or three titles and then the group votes on the upcoming book. Interestingly, the Blue Stockings strives to draw from a variety of genres, including historical fiction, non-fiction and memoirs, as well as horror, science fiction and politics. Often their selections spark lively conversation and debate, Nissen said. More often, they charge the group with doing research to explore the subject further. A case in point is the book the group is currently reading, “The Dovekeepers” by Alice Hoffman. Set in 70 C.E. in ancient Judea, the book tells of a tragic conflict between 900 Jews and Roman armies in the Judean desert. Only two women and five children survived. Nissen said she feels it will be a favorite with the group. “We love historical fiction,” Nissen said. “When the Olympics were in China we read “Red Azalea” by Anchee Min and it was fascinating to see the contrast of what the public sees with all of the ceremonies, with what Min showed about her life in the last years of Mao’s China.” The long list of books The Blue Stockings have read is as impressive as it is diverse. The group has read classics such as Steinbeck’s “The Grapes of Wrath” and Emily Bronte’s “Wuthering Heights,” to autobiographies of Paula Deen and Jane Fonda. Nissen said that another fun element of the club is that they try to have a themed meal when they get together. “When we read “The Help,” we had pimento cheese sandwiches and other Southern fare.” It should be interesting to see what food is served at the next meeting, when the group discusses Hoffman’s book based in ancient Judea.

-- Adlen W. Robinson 

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Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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Home Matters

Eco-friendly cleaning has come a long way W Spring cleaning tips hen I was pregnant with our first child a little over 20 years ago, the market had not caught up to those of us who were trying to do the right thing when it came to the environment. My mother thought I was crazy when I said I was going to use cloth diapers. She reminded me that when she raised my three older brothers and me, cloth diapers were the norm. And they were terrible.

way baby.” Fortunately for those of us who want to be as “green” as possible without feeling like we live in the beginning of the 20th century, quality eco-friendly products are everywhere. And they won’t break the bank account. I am a big fan of the Meyers line. The products smell fantastic and do a great job. My favorite scent is the lavender, but they’re all wonderful. Some of them seem a little pricey, but

pring is almost here and that means we can all look forward to budding trees, emerging green grass and the promise of beautiful, colorful flowers. Spring also reminds us that it’s time to clean the baseboards and windows. Here are some tips to help you get organized.

If you are feeling dread, just think about how good you’re going to feel once the house is sparkling!

Photos: Autumn Vetter I tried to explain about the at that time relatively new (and difficult to obtain) information about disposable diapers being bad for the environment. But she was too busy telling me about what it was like back in the day. Another thing I tried to do right was to use eco-friendly cleaning products. That meant I bought a lot of baking soda, white vinegar and empty spray bottles. Unfortunately, I rarely thought those natural, homemade products cleaned as well as I wanted. To borrow an old phrase when it comes to the world of eco-friendly cleaners currently, “you’ve come a long 20

many are diluted with water, so you have to factor that in. I love the air fresheners too. I also like the Method cleaning products, which when they go on sale are a good buy. Seventh Generation is also in my top three. All of these lines have a variety of products that you can feel certain are safe to use around family and pets. There are also an increasing number of cleaning sponges and cloths made from recycled products, so check those out as well.

-- Adlen W. Robinson

Before you begin this project or approach your family, take a few minutes to come up with a plan. My husband calls it my plan of attack. Begin by making a list of what needs to be done in each room of the home, as well as any outdoor tasks. You might want to use a spiral notebook, that way all the projects are in one place. Use a different page for each room. Try to be realistic here. For example, this is all about cleaning, not redecorating. Even if you want to paint a room or buy a new sofa, this is not the list for those concerns. On your spring cleaning list, stick to cleaning and organizing tasks. Once you’ve compiled the list, and it’s probably rather lengthy, think about who would be best for each task. Not everybody is gifted with the ability to do certain jobs well. My husband can “thoroughly clean” a bathroom in less than 15 minutes. While I might welcome such a “thorough” job when I’m busy, a bathroom spring cleaning job can take

Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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longer. While he may not be the best choice to clean the bathrooms for spring, my husband is good at cleaning and reorganizing the garage, storage room and his workshop. I have a friend who says her husband is much better at vacuuming than she is, thus she delegates that task. Unless they’re babies, children don’t get off the hook for spring cleaning day either. If your children are very young, give them a list or a brief set of instructions (sorting toys, etc), and then perhaps arrange a play date for them at a friend’s house — offering to trade off, of course. The fewer distractions you have, the more you can accomplish. Now that the assignments are set, it’s time to call a family meeting. Decide when the big day or days will be and let everybody know what’s expected. It’s also helpful to have a reward for jobs well done. What reward is up to you and best decided upon beforehand. Perhaps a movie and dinner out. Or take-out food and a movie in. If you have a few teenagers like we do, you know that money is a supreme motivator. Before the big day, make sure you have all the necessary cleaning and organizing supplies. If possible, provide a bucket of supplies for each bathroom, and a checklist of what’s expected in each room. Also, plan ahead for snacks and meals. Consider purchasing sandwiches or something else ready-made so you do not have to stop what you’re doing to make lunch. On cleaning day, get up early and eat a healthy breakfast. Try some fiber-loaded cereal with fresh fruit. Wear comfortable clothes and keep a positive attitude. If you are feeling dread, just think about how good you’re going to feel once the house is sparkling! Tell everybody to choose their favorite CDs and crank up the music on cleaning day. Encourage everybody to drink plenty of water to stay well-hydrated. Perhaps most importantly, keep your attitude upbeat. Children take their cues from you, so remember to keep smiling throughout the day. Happy dusting!  Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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School Spotlight

Get to know your schools

Sharon Springs Elementary Principal: Amy Bartlett Address: 3595 Old Atlanta Road Suwanee, GA 30024 States Wing, left, landscaper, and Amy Bartlett describe how the idea for “The Sharon DIGS” learning courtyard came about at Sharon Elementary

 Mascot: Knights

Brody Bartlett, left, mom Amy, and Brock Bowling break ground for “The Sharon DIGS” learning courtyard at Sharon Elementary

 Built: 2003

 Enrollment: 946

 Size: 147,649 sq. ft.  Awards: Georgia

School of Excellence

Old At lan ta R

Jam es B

Photos: FCN file

sR ges r u

Pkwy. ngs Laure l S pri

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* Fun facts: The school holds an annual International Festival with Riverwatch Middle School. It features food, dances and presentations from around the world. The school’s newsletter is called the Knightly News. * Special programs: Sharon DIGS — short for Discover, Inspire, Grow and Succeed — is an outdoor classroom that will be constructed before the end of the year. The DIGS will provide learning opportunities for up to three classes at a time and teaches kids curriculum standards while offering hands-on learning. Other offerings include family bingo night, which is a fun way for families to get together with others in the community. The school also holds a mother/son bowling night and father/daughter dance. -- Jennifer Sami

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Outdoors

Spring is the ideal time to get out in the garden Here are some things to consider before planting

 Know the mature size of plants before planting          

them Make sure the plant has adequate space in which to grow Find out if the plant is suited to the climate and soils of the area Know if the plant grows well in sun or shade Find out if the plant will invade other spaces or areas; if so, how will you control it? Understand the maintenance requirements of the plant Dig the planting hole wider but not deeper than the root ball Do not add anything to the hole but native soil Remember to apply a 2-4 inch layer of mulch over the root ball after planting Be prepared to water the plant in periods of drought (A bonus consideration to prevent stress or guilt) — Don’t worry if some plants don’t make it through the first year. 

Photos: Metro Creative • Compiled by Stephen Garton, Forsyth County extension coordinator and agriculture and natural resources agent. 24

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Smart Snacking

Start with fruit Presentation is also a factor

et’s face it, when it comes to children, snacks are a way of life. Whether it’s when they get home from school, or after their homework is finished and they are watching their favorite TV show, most kids have several snacks a day. If you worry about your children snacking too often or eating too much junk food, try being a little more creative. Remember, we eat with our eyes first, so always think about the presentation. These fruit skewers are simple to make and are healthy and delicious. Try using unusual fruit, like star fruit and kiwi, to broaden your child’s palate and also keep it interesting. Offer sugar-free or light chocolate syrup, or yogurt for dipping. And as always, remember to eat healthy snacks yourself so your children see you eating what you want them to eat.

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Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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For the Health of It

Choosing a pediatric dentist Many factors to consider when making a decision By Alyssa LaRenzie eeping little smiles healthy requires regular visits to a dentist. A pediatric dentist provides a special level of care for children, due to an additional two to three years of education, said Jonathan Jackson, executive director of the Georgia Academy of Pediatric Dentistry. “We know more about children’s teeth and growth and development, more so than a general family dentist because they spend more time treating adults,” Jackson said.

Spending so much time working with kids also gives the pediatric dentist more experience with both dental care and children’s behavior, he said. Children can key into the comfort level of the doctor, Jackson said, so a pediatric specialist may make a child more relaxed during an appointment. A pediatric dentist may be a better option for families, but picking one can be confusing. With many specialists to choose from in the local area, parents should consider several factors when

For a great experience, appropriate rates

and quality care, a

recommendation is

a sure way to find a pediatric dentist

Photos: FCN file/Metro Creative 26

selecting a dentist for their children. Feeling at ease can be the most important determination for families, said Michael Hansen, pediatric dentist at Dental Town in Forsyth County and Johns Creek. “[Families should be] comfortable not only with the surroundings, but the doctor and the office and that their kids feel comfortable,” Hansen said. “It’s exciting when you get kids that come to the dentist that have had bad experiences in the past, and now they’re excited to be at the dentist.” He said typically if the older kids like the office, then the younger ones will follow step. Also in terms of comfort level, location and timeliness are other important factors for a family to consider, Hansen said. “It is helpful if the office is easy to get to and doesn’t take a ton of their time,” he said. Hansen said that most offices in the area offer similar rates, but families should ask how insurance plans are accepted at a practice. The cost of a child’s cleaning should be comparable to what an adult pays at a general practitioner, said TJ Eberhardt of Classic Children’s Dentistry in Cumming. For children who also need orthodontic work, Eberhardt said a dual specialty in a dentist or an office can be beneficial for families. Eberhardt said some offices allow parents to come back with their children, while others do not. He recommended that children 3 and older go back alone in order to build a comfort level with the dentist on their own. For a great experience, appropriate rates and quality care, a recommendation is a sure way to find

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a pediatric dentist, both Hansen and Eberhardt agreed. “It goes back to who can you trust,” Eberhardt said. “The best way to find one is to either ask your dentist or ask your friend, another parent or ask a pediatrician.” 

Other factors to consider  Some pediatric dentists are board certified by the American Board of Pediatric Dentistry, which requires additional education. Is that qualification important to you?  What ages does the office treat? The American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry recommends children take a first dental visit at age 1, or when the first tooth appears.  Does the office offer preventative services, such as sealant or fluoride treatment?  What types of sedation are used and for what procedures?

On the Net

Check for certified pediatric dentists and learn more about children’s dental care on the American Academy of Pediatric Dentistry Web site at www.aapd.org. Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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Community Notes

Calendar

Happenings about town

orsyth County Schools will hold its Fifth Annual Transition Fair for students with developmental disabilities and their families at 5 p.m. March 1 at North Lanier Baptist Church. There will be information about job training, health care, financial planning and assistance, adapted sports and more. The event is free. For more information, contact Susan Darlington at (770) 887-2461, ext. 202327, or sdarlington@forsyth.k12.ga.us.

eart Screens for Teens will be held from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. March 17 at Pinecrest Academy. Heart screens are recommended for all student athletes ages 11 and older. Cost is $65 per screen and appointments should be made in advance by e-mailing cherylfarkas@aol.com or calling (770) 826-9478.

enturing Crew 39 has constructed an aluminum can collection trailer that’s open to community recycling. It is behind the Cumming Kiwanis Club building at 417 Pilgrim Mill Road in Cumming.

elping Hands Partners, an organization assisting Forsyth County families, is in need for its empty food pantry. Food and household items are needed. Residents may drop off donations at 523 Veterans Memorial Blvd. or call for pick up. For more information, call (404) 545-5721 or (678) 341-8075.

C T

umming Elementary will have a recycle rally from 9 a.m. to noon the second Saturday of each month at the school, 540 Dahlonega Hwy. Bring aluminum cans, plastic bottles and other recyclables.

he Forsyth County Extension Office will hold a series of classes from 9 a.m. to noon on the following dates at the Central Park Recreation Building: • March 10 — Planting and caring for cool season vegetables; $5 • April 14 — Planting and caring for warm season vegetables; $5 • May 12 — Organic gardening; $5 To register, call (770) 887-2418.

ashburn Elementary School will have a yard sale fundraiser from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. March 27 in the school parking lot at 3777 Samples Road. For more information, e-mail vicepresident@mashburnpto.org or call Jennifer Sibbitt at (404) 285-3796.

Photos: FCN file/Metro Creative

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he Forsyth County Newcomers and Women’s Club meets monthly, and membership is open to all women, not just newcomers. For more information, contact Charlotte Phillips at (770) 205-5944 or go online at www. newcomersclubofforsyth.org.

he Chestatee River Chapter of the Daughters of the American Revolution meets at 3 p.m. the second Sunday of each month in the conference room of the Forsyth County Public Safety Complex, 3520 Settingdown Road. For more information, call Susan Youdell at (678) 513-6127.

orld Heritage Student Exchange Program is seeking local host families for international students for the 2012-13 school year. For more information, contact Roxanne Lawson at (770) 833-5717 or go online at www.whhosts.com.

oster homes for cats and dogs are needed urgently through the Humane Society of Forsyth County No-kill Shelter. Both regular and short-term foster homes needed. For more information, call (770) 887-6480 or go online at www.forsythpets.com and click “volunteer.”

G T S F

Market Artisan Boutique & Folk Art Gallery Shopping Destination!

arden of Empowerment, a nonprofit organization with the purpose of empowering separated, divorced and widowed women to move forward with their lives, is celebrating its 10th anniversary. For more information, call Sue at (770) 815-2628 or e-mail her at sue@gardenofempowerment.org.

he Holistic Moms Network meets the second Tuesday of each month at 6:30 p.m. at Land of a Thousand Hills Coffeehouse, 5095 Post Road, hosting informational speakers, yoga groups, and play groups for mothers interested in holistic health and green living. For more information, e-mail Ann Linke at holisticmomforsyth@yahoo.com, or visit www.holisticmoms.org. titches from the Heart needs volunteers to knit, crochet or quilt blankets, little sweaters and hats for babies in need. These items are donated to hospitals all over the country. Patterns available. Donated yarn for seniors also appreciated. Call (877) 985-9212 or go online at www.stitchesfromtheheart.org. irst Baptist Church of Cumming, 1597 Sawnee Drive, is offering a new class for engaged or young married couples (five years or less), at 11 a.m. Sundays in room 324-A. The material is “Marriage Builders” by Larry Crabb. For more information, call (770) 887-2428.

Meet Me @

ood Shepherd Catholic announces its preschool registration for the 2012-13 year. For more information or to register, call (770) 887-9861, Ext. 14, e-mail goodshepherdpreschool@yahoo.com or go online at www.sgpreschool.org.

Featuring handcrafted unique items by over 50 local artisans ~ jewelry, ladies’ accessories, boutique and vintage clothing, home & garden decor, pottery, soaps, candles, gourmet foods, folk art and so much more!

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Annual Spring Festival! Saturday, March 24 10am-5pm

Open: Monday - Saturday 10am-5pm

334 Dahlonega Hwy, Cumming, GA 30040

678.367.1615

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Community Notes

Calendar

Happenings about town

aints RNI Greek Orthodox Church Women’s Ministry is offering Greek pastries for Easter. Portion of proceeds to benefit Jesse’s House. For more information, call (770) 781-5250 or e-mail officeadmin@stsrni.org.

t. Columba’s Episcopal Church, 939 James Burgess Road, will have Daughters of the King discernment classes at 12:30 p.m. Sundays through April 22. For more information, contact Wendy Lambert at wendyclambert@bellsouth.net or (404) 422-2963.

estore Motherhood is a nonprofit group that helps chronically ill mothers during their tough times. The group assists with household chores so that “Mommy” can spend time with her children. Duties include laundry, light cooking, dishes, sitting with mom while in the hospital and providing a ride to the doctor. If someone you know could use some help or you want to volunteer, call (770) 205-1147 or (770) 899-5641 or e-mail moore680202@bellsouth.net. The group’s Web site is restoremotherhood.webs.com. There is no charge for these services; however, it is always accepting donations and seeking volunteers. ompassionate Care Hospice is looking for volunteers to help those facing terminal illness. The program takes an hour a week and has needs in the Cumming area. For more information, contact Lin at (770) 220-2723 or e-mail tatum.lin46@gmail.com.

umming First United Methodist Church preschool and kindergarten is registering for the 2012-13 school year. Classes begin Sept. 4. For more information, call (770) 889-4580.

hrist the King Lutheran Church preschool is registering for the 2012-13 school year for walking toddlers to 4-year -olds, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. five days a week. For more information, call (678) 513-4338 or go online at www.preschoolctk.com.

orth Lanier Baptist Church weekday program is taking registrations for its summer session and for the 2012-13 school year. It serves children ages 6 months through 5 years. Hours are 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Mondays through Fridays. Call Karen at (770) 205-8422 or go online at www.northlanier.org/weekday.

appy Tails Pet Therapy is recruiting new volunteers. It needs volunteers and their pet dogs, cats or rabbits to help brighten days at more than 140 metro Atlanta health care facilities, social agencies and special needs programs.. Volunteers must be 18 or older. Monthly orientation lasts one hour and no reservations are required. Sorry, pets are not permitted at orientation. Visit HappyTailsPets.org or call (770) 740-8211 for more information.

single moms ministry at Bethelview United Methodist Church, 4525 Bethelview Road, meets twice a month at 6:30 p.m. Wednesday nights. Babysitting is available for $2 per group. Detailed information and registration is available online at www.bethelview.net or by calling (770) 887-4888.

others of Preschoolers, a Creekside UMC Ministry, is designed for mothers with children ages birth to 6. Meetings include breakfast, door prizes, an outside speaker, peer discussion and craft time. Our MOPPETS program includes stories, play, music and crafts for little ones. Meetings are the first and third Friday of each month at Creekside Methodist Church. Fees are $6 per meeting, $10 for you and your children to attend. A one-time fee of $30 covers MOPS to MOM Connections. For more information or to register, call (888) 889-8449, Ext. 116.

Photo: FCN file

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Moments Magazine | March-April 2012

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