Giggle Magazine February/March 2013

ALACHUA

COUNTY’S

PREMIER

FAMILY

MAGAZINE

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY PARTY ISSUE

happy family • happy communityTM FEB/MARCH 2013 • Volume 5 • Issue 1

10Ways

Pinterest can help you

AWW!  SAYTRUE LOVE STORIES THAT BEAT ALL ODDS

Pg. 11

+HOW TO AVOID

THE BIRTHDAY PARTY ENVY TRAP!

Birth Stories Real Moms. Real Life.

+TWEENS AND DATING

www.gigglemag.com

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giggle magazine

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giggle

magazine • aug/sept 2010

1

Giggle Magazine

READER SURVEY ALACHUA

COUNTY’S

PREMIER

FAMILY

MAGAZINE

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY PARTY ISSUE

PUBLISHER Nicole Irving ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Alison Walker ART DIRECTOR Leslie Vega DIRECTOR OF PR & MARKETING Allen Haynes GRAPHIC DESIGNER Leslie Vega COPY EDITOR Dana Kamp

happy family • happy communityTM 2012 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

FEB/MARCH 2013 • Volume 5 • Issue 1

AWW!  SAYTRUE LOVE

10Ways

STORIES THAT BEAT ALL ODDS

Pinterest can help you

Pg. 11

+HOW TO AVOID

THE BIRTHDAY PARTY ENVY TRAP!

FEB/MARCH 2013 • Volume 5 • Issue 1

Birth Stories

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Gia Arvin, Selena Garrison, Tara Griffin, Allen Haynes, Dana Kamp, Helen Kornblum, Brooke Newell, Jackie Smith, Alison Walker CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Shandon Smith with Lifeprints Photography, Patricia Bishop Photography, Verve Studio INTERNS Jenny Wilkinson, Samantha Simon, Kelsey Meany, Molly Seebol

Real Moms. Real Life.

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Rob Lentz, Brian Pitts

+TWEENS AND DATING

www.gigglemag.com

s please! comment

The sole purpose of Giggle Magazine is to give you a magazine that you love to read.

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Mission Statement Giggle Magazine is a modern and refreshing magazine for the families and communities of Alachua County, Florida. With our sole purpose of keeping families and communities connected, Giggle Magazine will keep readers intrigued, informed and inspired, with up to date information and heartwarming stories.

Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Irving Publications, LLC is not responsible for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers.

Nothing that appears in Giggle Magazine may be reproduced in any way, without written permission. Opinions expressed by Giggle Magazine writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. Giggle Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions. Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/ or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

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gigglemag.com advertise@irvingpublications.com Giggle Magazine is a registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2013

Feb * March 2013 happy family • happy community

FEATURES 11 A Story To Tell

Love stories that beat the odds

22 Ellie's Grace

The West Family's Story

27 Birthday Parties

28 A Fairy Party for the girls 32 A Knight Party for the boys

37 Birthday Party Envy 82 Summer Camps

27

A Fairytale

birthday

Photo by Patricia Bishop

party!

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Thoughts on Sandy Hook...

It wasn’t until I was alone in my office on that Friday, that the tears started flowing. I found myself mourning for children and adults I had never met. For their families, their friends and their small town. I was not alone. The whole country mourned for these innocent lives that were taken too soon.

The incident happened only miles from my family in Connecticut. Minutes from where I celebrate every Christmas with my family and where I would be celebrating again this year with my children.

As I drove into Connecticut and passed the Sandy Hook exit, my heart hurt. There hung a simple wreath hanging from the I-84 sign. Ten miles later, as we started up the mountain to my parents’ house, we noticed all the flags at half-staff and a lawn sign that read, “Pray for Newtown.” It was evident; this area was in mourning, like the rest of the country.

I held my kids closer that night and thought about how lucky I was to be with my family and my children, safe in my parents’ home. I was overcome with sadness and grief for those parents and families.

We were not alone in our presence. There were couples, a motorcycle group and families. People came with their arms full of flowers, candles, teddy bears, cupcakes and balloons. I will never forget the overwhelming stillness, prayer, mourning and tears that were flowing around me. It was terrifyingly peaceful.

We held each other and cried. Cried for those that were taken too soon. Cried for their families and cried because that could have been any one of our children and family members.

Cried for their bravery, their pain and their memory.

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giggle magazine

The tragedy that occurred that December day in Sandy Hook will live forever in our memories. The tragic death of the young and those that loved to take care of them, their amazing teachers, will weigh heavy in our hearts for quite some time. It is in their memories that I hope you will hug your children a little tighter, laugh with them a little longer and make sweet memories as a family.

-Nicole

Publisher of Giggle Magazine

Photos by Giggle Magazine

The next morning, Shane, my father and I went to Sandy Hook.

We went with prayers in tow. As you enter this small, quaint town, you can only ask yourself one question, and that is why?

Why here? I will leave that for others to explain and answer, but what a beautiful little town indeed.

We took a quiet walk in the chilly air toward the school (which was blocked off) and was overcome by the scene we saw. Twenty-seven Christmas trees, fully decorated and adorned with presents and ornaments, each one with a name hanging from a sign. It was both heartbreaking and breathtaking at the same time.

columns 52 ORGANIZED SOLUTIONS

Professional organizer Helen Kornblum helps us find easy ways to keep our busy family lives organized

38

Feb * March 2013 happy family • happy community

in every issue 18 BEAUTY

All Things Red

21 GIGGLE STAMP

Heart Products

a story

to tell

41 IN THE KITCHEN

Easy Birthday Treats

44 GIGGLE GLIMPSE:

LIVING IN GAINESVILLE

The Ellard Family

11

48 HEALTH & WELLNESS

6 Snacks for the On-The-Go Parent 50 LIFESAVERS

10 Ways Pinterest Can Help You

65 CONCEPTION TO COLLEGE

66 Expecting |Giggle Mommies Share Their Birth Stories 72 Infants & Toddlers | Perfect Playtime 74 The Early Years | Bedwetting

78 Tweens | Tweens and Dating

80 Teens | Advice For Our Teens 85 HOMESCHOOL CORNER High-Tech Homeschool

ALACHUA

41

MAGAZINE

FEB/MARCH 2013 • Volume 5 • Issue 1

10Ways

Pinterest can help you

37

+HOW TO AVOID

66

Birth Stories

AWW!  SAYTRUE LOVE STORIES THAT BEAT ALL ODDS

Pg. 11

THE BIRTHDAY PARTY ENVY TRAP!

FEB/MARCH 2013 • Volume 5 • Issue 1

Treats

FAMILY

happy family • happy communityTM 2012 BUSINESS OF THE YEAR

Birthday

PREMIER

SPECIAL BIRTHDAY PARTY ISSUE

50

Easy

COUNTY’S

78

Real Moms. Real Life.

+TWEENS AND DATING

www.gigglemag.com

Photo by Lifeprints Photography Cover couple: Jonathan and LaVonne Rembert

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2013

5

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p letter from the publisher S T A Y

C O N N E C T E D

2012

came and went in the blink of an eye...

and now 2013 is in full swing.

Seems life these days is always in super charge mode and sometimes we, as parents, never know if we are coming or going. This issue is all about what really matters… family, love, celebration and little miracles.

I am so inspired by the amazing stories within this issue.

From Rebecca and Jason West’s story about their tiny miracles to all our couples who share their love stories, our pages are full of wonderful accounts of love, laughter and memories.

How adorable are these little ones as they play in our “Fairy Tale and Knight's Tale” parties? Each party is a wonderful combination of easy DIY elements and classic birthday party treats, perfect for the busy parents we all are!

In honor of this being our annual Birthday Party issue, the Giggle Magazine ladies share their very personal birth stories, stories of our amazing birth days. (SPOILER ALERT: they are the real stories, no sugar coating here.)

I have to admit it, I have gotten lost in the world of Pinterest. But, can you blame me? For a shopping enthusiast, it is like the ultimate window shopping mall trip. On page 50 we help you navigate through the Pinterest arena of fun!

You have to check out our very own Giggle Magazine Pinterest Page-its full of amazing ideas and lots of giggles!

I hope you LOVE this issue as much as I do and get lost in the spirit of the new year! It’s all about celebrating the memories.

Nicole Publisher

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giggle magazine

Gigglers' Tweets!

Supporting Taryn (my wife) for the Big Weight Loss Challenge #BWLC3 @GiggleMagazine @sweatlifefit – w/ some lovely Gainesville moms!

Like Us on

facebook

Follow hashtag #BWLC3 for all of our Big Weight Loss updates.

Go to facebook.com/ gigglemagazine and like our page to talk to us and other parents, see behind the scenes of photo shoots and become eligible for giveaways!

CONNECT WITH US ON PINTEREST Visit pinterest.com/ gigglemagazine and follow our pins. Get to know our staff and get DIY activity ideas for your family. Our boards include: Cool Crafts, Gifting Ideas, Products We Love and many more.

 Head to the Giggle Talk Blog at www.gigglemag.com to find weekly inspiration for the home including kids activities, recipes and tips that just make life easier. You can also find important news you need to know before the magazine hits stands, in addition to funny stories and musings of the Giggle Magazine team.

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giggle

magazine • dec/jan 2013

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a story to tell...

Every married couple has a story. These three couples each have their own unique beginning to their story, but one common feature...a deep, true love that keeps their story going.

LOVE STORIES

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

brian + jodi

married 1 year | first baby on the way

LOVE STORIES

Our love story could only be written in the 21st century. Past generations of couples met each other through family connections in their cities, knew each other from the time they were small children or went to school together, or found each other as they began their post-college adulthood. We met online in our 30s while we lived in different cities and initially communicated more by text, cell phone and computer than we did in person.

We both grew up in different parts of the country – Jodi in Ohio and Florida, Brian in Minnesota.

During college and post-college years, we both had relationships with not-quite-the-right-one and knew that our true love was still out there. Though we didn’t know it at the time, our work and personal interests were pulling us together; Brian moved to Florida in 2009.

We decided to use online dating to see if our match was out there. The eHarmony heuristics paired us based on our interests and responses to a litany

12 giggle magazine

of questions about our beliefs, opinions and goals.

After reading each other’s profiles and browsing through pictures, we traded emails, progressed to talking on the phone, and then agreed to meet for a first date. While living in different cities we spent time together “virtually” talking on Skype.

When you find true love - whatever the obstacles are - you find a way to make it work. Nine months after we were matched online and countless hours on the phone and computer, we decided to continue our lives the “old-fashioned” way – living in the same city and seeing each other every day! We married in March 2012 and are expecting our first child next July.

We hope our story inspires those still looking for the right one or wondering if it will ever happen.

Everything happens according to its own timetable; being patient and not settling for anything less than the best has made all the difference in our lives!

-Brian & Jodi Hunt

jonathan + lavonne married 12 years | two children

It was the summer of 1989 (June 18, 1989, to be exact) when Jonathan and I were first introduced to each other. I was getting ready to start my senior year of high school and he had already graduated two years earlier. It was love at first sight. We were inseparable. We spent the entire summer together, going to the beach, the springs, camping, water skiing, concerts, anything and everything we could fit in.

Six years later we decided it was time to tie the knot so on March 3, 1995, we had a gorgeous wedding with 500 guests at First United Methodist Church downtown. We bought our first condo and our first dog. It was a big year.

and over the next three years we talked to each other about what it was we wanted in a relationship, what we wanted to do in life, and what we wanted in a family. Someone once told me, “If you love someone, set them free, if they come back, they are yours to keep.” So that is just what I did.

On September 1, 2000, we reunited our marriage with a small wedding and only 30 guests. We just celebrated our 12th wedding anniversary. It has been a long road, but we have two beautiful children and are very thankful for all the support from our friends and family. Marriage is full of ups and downs but it is those ups and downs that give us our “story.” I hope you enjoy ours, we sure have.

Unfortunately, two years later, we both felt as if we needed a - Jonathan & LaVonne Rembert little space. We needed to grow up, and needed to decide what it was we wanted to do in life. Sadly, this wasn’t something we decided to do together. In 1997, after only two years of marriage, we were divorced. We stayed close, as friends do,

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2013

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kevin + monica

SPACE AVAILABLE

married 10 years | two daughters

Not lost in translation…in Kevin’s words.

It was 14 years ago and I was playing a game of racquetball with a coworker. He asked if I wanted to go to a Christmas party at his other job. His girlfriend, Sonia, already worked with him at this other job so he could bring me as his "plus one" guest. So off to the party we went.

As we entered the ballroom, there was a girl who I just couldn't take my eyes off of. I asked my co-worker who she was and he didn't know, he had never seen her before.

We headed for the bar and buffet where we ran into his girlfriend. She said she had a table for us and to follow her.

We meandered through the maze of tables, all the while getting closer to that stunning girl I had seen earlier. She was sitting at a table all by herself.

As fate would have it, we were heading to her table. It turned out this beautiful girl was Sonia's niece. I was introduced to Monica, who only spoke Spanish, and I only spoke English.

As the night continued, Monica and I sat at the table while Alfonso and Sonia danced the night away. Frequently I would gaze over at Monica and then turn away when she looked my way. After a while a guy came over and gave her a big hug and sat down and started speaking Spanish with her. I was devastated. I had lost her. It turned out that this was her

14 giggle magazine

cousin, George, Sonia's son. All of a sudden I was back. I had not lost her. I was still in the running, although I had not said anything to her other than "hola.” I still had a chance.

I finally got the nerve to ask her to dance, she said yes and we got up and had a blast. After the party ended we went out dancing until 4 a.m.

Monica was on vacation at her aunt's and we spent every minute that we could over the next two weeks speaking to each other through a pocket translator, typing in every word, or using sign/body language to communicate. When her vacation ended at the end of December that year, Monica returned to her home in Colombia, and we continued to talk every day. I would write a letter and have a friend translate it into Spanish.

Each night I would call and read the Spanish to her and she would do the same with an English translation. Over time we both got better with our new languages.

In May, I went to Colombia to ask Monica, her father, her mother, her grandparents, and her brother and sisters for her hand in marriage. We were married in July in a small ceremony in South Florida. That was two kids, three houses, a dog and two languages ago. We have been happily married for 13.5 years, and she speaks way better English than I do Spanish.

Gainesville, be our

valentine!

YOUR AD HERE.

giggle@irvingpublications.com

16 giggle magazine

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The Vienna Boys Choir’s repertoire includes everything from medieval to contemporary and experimental music. With roots dating back to the 15th century, the Choir is comprised of roughly 100 members between the ages of 10 and 14, and is broken into four choirs which perform around 300 concerts per year worldwide — splitting time between performances and school.

The Otago Daily Times said, “their voices thrill on the high pure notes; their sense of rhythm is impeccable.”

(352) 392-2787 | www.performingarts.ufl.edu | Find us on Facebook!

20 giggle magazine

REBECCA HEART NECKLACE

Lang Jewelers, Tioga Town Center

All Things heart For Her HEART TAG BRACELET tiffany.com

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Photo by Verve Studio

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PANDORA CHARM BRACELET

charms and bracelet can be bought separately Lang Jewelers, Tioga Town Center

MARCH OF DIMES FAMILY FEATURE

22 giggle magazine

Ellie’s Grace: Finding Hope in Heartbreak

On January 21, 2011, Rebecca West, 35, sits in a quiet hospital room holding her 7-day-old daughter, Ellie Grace. Ellie’s lifeless body is no bigger than a mason jar.

Her skin is so thin that if Rebecca made any sudden movement, Ellie’s skin could tear just as easily as the paper on which this story is printed.

BY ALLEN HAYNES Photos by Verve Studio

“I

didn’t know I had that many tears,” Rebecca says through water-filled eyes as she relives this moment during our interview. Her husband, Jason, 37, squeezes her hand as if doing so gives Rebecca extra strength to finish the story.

“I was just talking to God and to her,” she said. “I told her I loved her, and she was beautiful. I couldn’t say it enough.”

In those seven days since Ellie was born on January 14, 2011, weighing less than a full pound at 15.2 ounces, Jason and Rebecca experienced every emotion to its fullest. And even as they looked upon Ellie’s body, pouring out sadness, anger and confusion, they still had a glimmer of hope in their hearts, because Ellie had a sister.

Emmie Claire, Ellie’s twin, was still fighting for her own life just a few rooms down from where her parents sat.

“My girls knew I was having twins before I did,” Rebecca says, referring to the students she teaches at The Rock School, a private Christian school associated with The Rock Church.

When Rebecca told her students she was pregnant, they immediately told her that her oldest child, Callie, 5, would be becoming a big sister to a set of babies. One ultrasound later, her students were right and Jason and Rebecca were thrilled to be planning for two babies instead of one.

During a routine examination, Rebecca’s doctor determined that Emmie and Ellie were monoamniotic twins, meaning both girls shared one amniotic sac in their mother’s uterus.

After this discovery, Jason and Rebecca were told the girls would likely be born prematurely of full-term, which is 37

weeks. This news did not cause a massive increase in their anxiety or concern levels, because Callie had also been a preemie baby, being born 35 weeks into the pregnancy.

Due to the increased risks of a monoamniotic pregnancy for both Rebecca and the babies, Rebecca’s doctor planned a cesarean section delivery at 32 weeks with Emmie and Ellie having to have their lungs developed via steroid shots.

Rebecca was also told she would be admitted to the hospital when she was 24 weeks pregnant to monitor the twins’ heartbeats, ensuring a healthy delivery of the two girls.

The day Jason and Rebecca went to the hospital in week 24, everything changed. After running some tests, the doctor informed Rebecca that her blood pressure had spiked to a dangerous level and she had to be admitted immediately instead of later in the week as planned. Before she had time to collect her thoughts, she was being poked and prodded by so many needles that she felt like a truck was driving through her arm.

After five days of lying in the hospital bed with a day-to-day blood pressure chart that resembled a roller coaster, Emmie and Ellie came into the world and were immediately placed in incubators. Their breathing patterns were like if you or I tried to breathe through a coffee stirrer.

The week after the girls were born, Ellie started having more problems breathing and eventually stopped accepting air into her lungs. The doctor tried to resuscitate Ellie for 45 minutes before informing giggle

magazine • feb/march 2013

23

Rebecca and Jason that their daughter had died.

“You know people die every day, but my baby had only been alive for seven days,” she said. “We grew up in the church and I know she’s in heaven with our Lord, but it just isn’t fair.”

Losing Ellie was the most difficult experience of Jason and Rebecca’s lives. It’s an experience they would not wish on their worst enemy, they said, but they added that Ellie has already inspired several people to be more aware of the importance of premature birth research and care.

Jason and Rebecca recommend that anyone who has a risk of a premature birth get involved with the March of Dimes immediately.

“We’re still friends with the people and families we met through the March of Dimes,” Rebecca said. “They provide so much support from meals to information. They know everything there is to know about preemies, and we’ll be involved with them forever.”

SPACE AVAILABLE 

Ellie



Emmie

A total of 133 days passed before Jason and Rebecca were able to take Emmie home, and while she is still tiny, she is as healthy as can be, having recently celebrated her first birthday.

“We talk to Emmie and tell her about Ellie, and she will someday know about her sister,” Rebecca said. “But Emmie has her own story, and we pray over her daily.”

When Jason and Rebecca pray over Emmie, they pray a verse from Psalms 118:17 from the Bible. The verse is printed on their family team’s March of Dimes T-shirts and reads, “I will not die, but live and declare the works of the Lord.” 

To be a part of the March of Dimes, visit marchforbabies.org Jason's wedding ring!

24 giggle magazine

“We talk to Emmie and tell her about Ellie, and she will someday know about her sister,” Rebecca said. “But Emmie has her own story, and we pray over her daily.”

Bringing

fairytales to life

IT'S OUR BIRTHDAY PARTY ISSUE! And we brought a little pretty with a little rustic to this year's exclusive party inspiration!

for the GIRLS A FAIRY'S TALE

for the BOYS A KNIGHT'S TALE

PHOTOS BY PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHY ï‚© STYLING BY DEBRA WALTERS DESIGNS & CREVASSE'S REGENCY FLORIST

Each fairy was adorned with floral headpieces and fairy wings upon arrival.

Adding costume elements for the attendees helps bring the theme to life and of course, little girls love to dress up.

Every fairy loves her own little quaint space.

We love this reading nook, complete with fairy wands to spark a little imagination and wonder.

DIY: To create the perfect reading nook, use light tulle and tie to a small hula hoop. Attach to tree with fishing line.

Fairy dust favors!

Easy to make with a jar and pink and white glitter!

A sweet mix of nature and soft colors brings together this Fairytale party.

To recreate, here is the Fairytale party essential check list: Burlap Moss elements Wood elements Fairy wands Reading nook Wings (easily found at dollar store) Tulle Flowers Magic wands Sweet treats in coordinating colors (ribbon and dowel) Bird nests (easily found at craft store)

 Tutus by Titi's Tutus  Flower arrangements and mason jar favors by Crevasse's Regency Florist  Fairy dust favors and decor props by Debra Walters Designs  Headpieces by Crevasse's Regency Florist (previous page)

Keeping the tablescape simple and sweet for the festivities is easily done. We added simple floral elements, mini cupcake stands and small bird nests to tie in the look.

Cupcakes by Dream Day Cakes

Burlap is so easy to use and comes in big spools.

Very versatile and brings in that natural element that completes the setting.

The most fun of adorning any birthday party scene is bringing in all the special touches.

Sometimes, simple items you have around the house will blend well with your theme. Here, we take simple silver candle holders and utilize them as cupcake stands. They match perfect with our knight theme.

Sometimes simple is best. When creating the tablescape for our party, we took simple finger foods and treats all kids love and laid them out on our knights' table.

little knight It is always fun to play dress-up and really get into character. For our knights we created felt smocks with black duct tape and the shield was made out of foam board. Again, using some pieces like the horse head and silver vase from your décor will add simple yet effective touches!

 Decor and propping by Debra Walters Designs  Cupcakes by Dream Day Cakes

When setting up our treats table, we brought it down to the child’s level.

Instead of using a high table we used tree stumps and a simple plywood board as the table.

No chairs and simple dĂŠcor allow for a free flowing feel.

34 giggle magazine

BY NICOLE IRVING

The

Birthday Party

I

t’s happened to all moms. You take your little one, gift in tow, to his bestie’s birthday party and there it is. The most amazing thing you have ever seen! You swear you have just walked onto the set of a TV show for amazing birthday parties.

Envy Trap

The party child is dressed in complete perfection. A live band plays in the corner under a canopy. Balloons, favors, treats, food, flowers, cake and place settings all coordinate perfectly. Each “play station” is flawlessly orchestrated with a helper and the lines of children are orderly and neat.

There are live monkeys hanging overhead, a giraffe stands waiting for petting and you could swear you see an elephant looming! Did National Geographic come? Each child is given a head-to-toe themed costume to wear as he steps into a pint-sized photo booth. Your thoughts...how can I top this next month for Junior’s party?

Stop! Rewind…

You just fell into the “birthday party envy trap.” We have all been there, and it is normal, but instead of thinking, “how am I going to top this?” it is always best to think, “how can I make sure my little one has the best time ever with what I can give her?”

Keeping up with the Joneses becomes more and more difficult and when we are parents, it is even harder. Your little one will undoubtedly come back from a party asking for that ride to the moon…and you know you can’t give it to her. Time to panic? What should you do? Give her what you can…and be proud of it.

Your child’s birthday party is a celebration of her life and her friendships. It is not meant for you to go broke (or bananas). Remember, it is more important to have fun, and to worry less about what others may think and more about living in the moment of your child’s happiness.

Here are some helpful tips: Stay on budget. Remember, not all budgets are the same. Don’t compare yours to anyone else’s.





Keep the birthday child at the center.

From theme to guests, it is about her and her friends and family.

Capture the moment. If you don’t have access to a photographer, put someone else, other than you or Dad, in charge of photos. Give them a punch list of photos you want to be captured and remember to smile. It is all about the moment!

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved



 Have a backup plan. It may rain, it may even hail. Have a backup plan for the location if it is going to be an outside event. If your little one gets sick, reschedule and be okay with that. It’s not worth getting everyone sick, and she will not enjoy the party while fighting the sniffles. 

the LATEST

Birthday Party

TRENDS

BY NICOLE IRVING

Today it seemsBIRTHDAY that the sky is PARTY the limit with birthday TRENDS party themes. From Dora to Dozers and Super Heroes to Strawberry Shortcake, any of your child’s favorite dolls and toys can set the theme for his birthday celebration.

Birthday party trends, treats, favors and decorations take note from popular video games, dolls, TV characters, craft ideas…the list goes on and on. With the everpopular Pinterest.com, the ideas are endless and the DIY trend has only gained momentum.

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Here are some of our favorite party themes and trends we are sure you will be seeing a lot of this year.

Treats, Favors and Decorations: • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Banners Candy bars Chalk favors DIY craft stations Polka dot or striped paper straws Mason jars Finger food style Cupcake toppers Initials or monogram elements Paper lanterns Water bottle wrappers Photo booth station Whoopie pies

Themes: • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Legos Polka dots Gum balls Tea parties Balloons Plains, trains and automobiles Bounce houses Sock monkey Ice cream social Race cars Bumble bees ABCs Fairies Mustaches and bowties

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Amanda's Parties To Go etsy.com/shop/amandaspartiestogo and Ellen Bessette Designs.

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Little Free Radical http://littlefreeradical.etsy.com.

The straws are made in America and do not get soggy in your drinks!

Available in 18 colors. The flags are designed and cut to fit this brand of straws!

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Luvalexa luvalexa.etsy.com. Stylish and fun party printables.

Party planning by FreshMommyBlog.com.

Photo by Relish Studios Photography & Design.

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Birthday Party FAQS Giggle Magazine Staff Writer

 I want to create a “birthday registry” for my child so I don’t get a thousand phone calls about what he wants, is this okay?

Yes. It goes without saying that the norm is to give the birthday boy a gift to celebrate. Making it simple on the giver is a great thing. Just be mindful of the kinds of gifts and the prices. Have a variety of items on the list suitable for all budgets.  My daughter is 5 and wants to have a boy/girl sleepover for her birthday. What should I do?

Use your personal discretion. Although she is young and it may seem harmless to you or your daughter, you may want to talk to the other parents prior to the invite to see what their thoughts are on it. This way, you can move forward accordingly with your daughter and not break her heart if it won’t work, and plan something else just as amazing. Communication is key.  I am not up for a party this year, but my son insists on having one. Our budget is tight and I really don’t want to do it. Should I just do it or put an end to his asking and tell him it isn’t going to happen this year?

Birthday parties can be stressful on time, money and nerves. Although it may seem like small potatoes to you if he didn’t have one, it may be BIG potatoes to him.

Feelings can get hurt and grudges can be held, especially if his sister gets one the next month. The best solution may be to talk to him, set boundaries for the party in regards to how many children he can invite, make the food instead of ordering it and decorate with low-cost balloons and printables from your home computer.

Popcorn and a video game station with your own Nintendo Wii can add hours of fun and enjoyment. It may take some creativity, but it will be worth his smile in the end. 

Valuable websites:

• tinyprints.com: invites • orientaltrading.com: inexpensive favors and decorations • pinterest.com: creative DIY ideas

For more FAQs, visit the Giggle Magazine Blog at gigglemag.com

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2013

39

Easy Birthday Treats GIGGLE EXCLUSIVE

Mini Cupcake Fondue Bar

This is a perfect treat for small groups!

Ingredients: Cupcake box mix: follow directions and ingredients from box.

Mini cupcake pan/mini muffin top pan Icing Food coloring Mini M&M’s Mini chocolate chips Sprinkles Mini dowels Shredded coconut Chopped nuts

in the kitchen p Classic Kettle Corn Ingredients: ¾ cup popcorn kernels ¼ cup vegetable oil ¼ cup granulated sugar 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions: In a large sauce pot, heat oil over medium heat.

Make sure you have a TIGHT fitting lid. Once oil begins to sizzle, add the popcorn. Once popping starts, lightly shake pot to keep the kernels from sticking. Continue until popping slows down (approx. 2 ½ min.). Remove from heat. In separate bowl, add salt. Add popcorn.

Toss lightly. Ready to serve.

Directions:

Pre-make mini cupcakes or muffin tops. Put icing in bowls and use food coloring to coordinate icing colors with party. Add toppings to mini bowls for easy access. Have children use mini dowels for dipping.

Hello Dollie Triangles Ingredients: 5 tablespoons melted butter 1 cup graham cracker crumbs 1 cup chopped walnuts 1 ½ cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 ½ cups flaked coconut 1 can sweetened condensed milk

Photo by Verve Studio

Directions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Melt butter over low heat on stove. Once melted, spread butter on the bottom of a 9x13 pan. Add graham cracker crumbs evenly to bottom of pan. Press lightly with back of spoon. Add walnuts, chocolate chips and coconut flakes. Make sure all is spread evenly over crumbs.

Cover entire pan evenly with condensed milk. Bake for 30 minutes. Cool completely and cut into mini triangles.

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2013

41

p giggle glimpse

living in

gainesville Photos by Lifeprints Photography

A QUICK Q&A WITH THE ELLARD FAMILY • Occupations: Marc is the dean of students at Buchholz High School and a collegiate basketball official and Susan is the training coordinator for RedVision System, Inc. • Favorite meal: Susan's mom makes this authentic Vietnamese meal that we all enjoy. Nothing like a home cooked meal.

• Favorite date spot: Dragonfly.

It’s where we went on our first date and we just love the food.

• Movie in our DVD player right now: Brady is totally in love with Mickey Mouse! We have gone out and bought every DVD that has been made of it.

• Our family is most like: A comedy show…if you meet us you will totally understand.

• Our child's favorite books: “If I Were a Dinosaur” (Anne Wilkinson for Jellycat), “Brown Bear, Brown Bear, What Do You See” (Eric Carle) and “TRUCKS” (Priddy Books).

• Mommy and Daddy’s favorite TV shows: “Modern Family,” “Nashville,” “Strike Back” and “Duck Dynasty” (this show makes us laugh every time).

• Websites we love: Amazon.com and Pinterest.com.

• Favorite sports to play: Soccer…mainly because Brady loves running around the park kicking balls around.

life the gainesville way

the Ellard family Marc, Susan and Brady (17 months)

• Favorite sports to watch: Football and college basketball (especially when Daddy is officiating).

• Pets: 1 dog, Max (5-year-old Weimaraner).

• Favorite vacation: Big Sky, Montana. This year will be the first time we bring Brady and we cannot wait to see how he does with the snow.

• What makes our child laugh: Since Brady is still pretty young, he loves it when we make goofy sounds and kiss his belly.

• Something that we would want our children to have that we didn’t have growing up: We were both blessed with wonderful upbringings; we want to continue that for our kids.

• Favorite day trip: Any place that has water!

We have a boat and Brady just loves being on it with us.

"We were both blessed with wonderful upbringings; we want to continue that for our kids."

44 giggle magazine

Continued on page 47

Continued from page 44

"Gainesville just has this knack for pulling you back in."

• First word you think of when we say “family”: Love.

• Favorite picnic spot: At the park across the street from where we live.

• Must-have item: Our iPhones! Mainly because it allows us to communicate with each other at all times and lets us capture moments with Brady in an instant.

• Favorite family activity: Bath/bedtime. Everything in our house stops for this time. It’s the one time when all of us (including our dog, Max) join in on the routine. No matter what happens in the day, we all come together to watch how Brady is changing and growing in front of our eyes. Time slips away but these moments will be something that we can always reflect on as he gets older. Max is such a trooper, Brady loves laying with him on the floor and crawling all over him.

• Three words that describe our family: Fun, loving and close.

• Why we love living in Gainesville: It’s just that town where you want to raise a family. We both grew up here, and the funny thing is that we both couldn’t wait to leave it when we graduated high school. Gainesville just has this knack for pulling you back in. As you become older you realize what matters most in life: family, close friendships and the atmosphere of knowing that you live in such an amazing town. 

p health & wellness

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Fruit

Fruit is the perfect snack. It’s easily portable and is chock-full of vitamins. Great on-the-go fruits include bananas and apple slices.

Add a spoonful of natural peanut butter for an extra protein kick.

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Greek yogurt and granola

Pretzels

“It’s quick, filling and super healthy,” says Katie Horton, mother of one. Yogurt is full of minerals and proteins, but make sure to avoid varieties with too much artificial coloring and flavor.

SNACKS ON-THE-GO FOR THE

PARENT

3

Pretzels are baked in most cases, not fried, and easy to portion out. They’re also made with nutrient-rich flour. Count out the equivalent of a portion and put it in a travel-ready snack container.

Healthy snacks are so important for keeping Mommy and Daddy going.

Good snacks provide vitamins and nutrients vital to keeping you ready to go at a moment’s notice when your little ones have recitals and soccer games. Here are six great snacks to keep your motor running.

BY ALLEN HAYNES

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String cheese and almonds

6

Dry cereal

5

Most cereals are fortified with extra vitamins and minerals. Make sure whichever cereal you choose has at least three to five grams of fiber per serving.

48 giggle magazine

Carrot sticks

Having a to-go container full of baby carrots is a great snack. Melanie Ostovic, mother of two, likes them as a pre-dinner snack because it doesn’t ruin her appetite and allows her to sneak some extra veggies into her system.

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Who doesn’t love string cheese? These two together provide protein and a serving of dairy in one sitting and create a nice palate balance.

p lifesavers We love the hilarious quotes and entertaining photos that abound on Pinterest.com. But the site is more than just for tickling our funny bones. It can be beneficial to so many areas of our lives!

10 Ways Can Help You!

BY DANA KAMP

1

Organization and Cleaning: Who knew you could use window planters for bathroom wall storage? What about turning a tall shelf on its side to become a window seat with storage? Or the fact that baking soda can clean almost anything in your home? Creative organization and easy cleaning solutions are so valuable in our busy households!

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Fitness and Nutrition: Looking for a great 15-minute abs workout or a new healthy smoothie variation just got easier. The Health and Fitness category covers everything from yoga postures and Crossfit techniques to quinoa recipes and the best workout playlists. Let Pinterest help make 2013 your healthiest year yet!

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Gifts: Whether it’s a framed inspirational quote for your sister or personalized gifts for your groomsmen, there are unique gifts for every person and occasion! The Gifts tab even allows you to choose gifts in your price range.

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Décor and Renovation: Decorating for the holidays, choosing a color scheme for your teenage son’s bedroom, or building your dream home frame by frame are all now simpler tasks because of Pinterest. The beautiful photos of home décor and architecture will have you filling your board with fantastic pins in no time.

Crafts and Activities: Chalkboard vases, tie-dyed Easter eggs, and bookcases made from ladders are just a sample of what is waiting for those DIY lovers out there! You can include your kiddos in the fun as well with hundreds of hands-on activities for family craft time.

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Beauty and Fashion: Complete wardrobe ideas for any event, from the earrings down to the footwear, are easily found by clicking on the Women’s Fashion or Men’s Fashion categories. The Hair and Beauty category provides tips such as creating modern braids, making homemade facial cleansers, and step-by-step instructions for getting that perfect smoky eye.

50 giggle magazine

Recipes and Event Planning: Planning a garden baby shower? Searching for an easy, delicious breakfast casserole for your weekend guests? Whatever your recipe needs, Pinterest will not let you down. Whether you’re trying to feed two or 200, the photos and explanations will make your preparation a cinch and your concoction a success!

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Travel: If you want to see amazing photos of the Madikwe Game Reserve in South Africa or need to know what to pack for your hiking trip through the Appalachian Mountains, the Travel category has you covered. Travel preparation tips and incredible destinations are abundant!

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Photo Ideas: The Photography category is not just for professional photographers. In fact, it’s full of suggestions for us amateurs trying to capture that perfect sunset shot or family reunion group photo. Don’t limit yourself to just the Photography category; great photo ideas are in every category on the site.

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Educational Tools: From lesson plans about the birth of our country to creative ways to instill a love of reading, the educational tips and ideas are endless. Teachers, tutors, nannies, mommies, and grandmommies can all benefit from the imaginative and fun ways to explain any concept to your little ones.

Follow Giggle Magazine on Pinterest.com to see what's tickling our staff members' funny bones!

Photos by Jenny Wilkinson

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7

organized

solutions

Professional organizer Helen Kornblum helps us find easy ways to keep our busy family lives organized.

Mind Games For Spring Cleaning I

s it too early to mention spring cleaning? Getting started begins with your frame of mind, and the more playful you are, the better.

Here’s an approach that could restore your resolve to get better organized.

Instead of tackling a closet or rooms as a whole, try de-cluttering based on the game of “I Spy,” using a special set of categories: broken, outdated, outgrown and unloved.  Broken Ask the family to offer up anything in the house

that no longer works or has lost critical parts. You may be able to salvage some items or repurpose them. If not, head for the recycling or trash bins.

 Outgrown

Clothing is an obvious target when you look for what the family has outgrown. This category applies to interests, too. If no one is making candles or soaps anymore, reclaim the space these supplies have occupied. Be honest about the developmental stages you and the children have gone through. It’s okay to evolve!  Outdated

Outdated also includes what’s on your bulletin board or in your hoard of school memos that date back to your child’s earlier grades. This category screams from your filing cabinet, too.

From now on, every time you take out a folder or envelope,

52 giggle magazine

 Unloved

Did you save every piece of artwork your child made in school? Bring a critical eye to the yellowing or torn samples.

With your child, pick out the best of the best or anything that shows a developmental leap in skill. Tell yourself that Picasso’s mother didn’t save everything either. Bring that same critical eye everywhere. You have costly clothing that you never wear, shoes that look great but are impossible to walk in, and kitchen machines that were silly investments. Sell or pass along these items to people who will value them.

A playful approach to spring cleaning doesn’t conjure up hours of drudgery with buckets of sloshing hot water. Or maybe that will come later. To get started, focus on organizing so you can drive up your score! 

Helen Kornblum is a professional coach and organizer in Gainesville, FL. She owns naturalorderorganizing.com. Her specialty is coaching teens and young adults who have ADHD or ADD.

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

The medicine cabinet and make-up drawer are fertile territory for items that have past their expiration dates. Old first aid creams, vitamins you never took, and moldy mascaras should be tossed. Only devotees of retro fashions will want to hang onto styles that may not be coming back. Take some photos if that will ease the separation, but empty your closet of things you don’t wear because they are not in style now, or you won’t wear later, because they may not fit you.

purge the papers in that category that are no longer relevant.

Don’t forget about the magazines on your coffee table still in plastic wrappers that you were going to read two years ago.

p giggle dollars

Oh, the joys of a new year!

Resolutions, fresh beginnings, and… taxes. Ok, so taxes are not that joyous, especially if you are a busy parent onthe-go, with little time to dig through old receipts and bank statements, trying to figure out what documents you need.

Luckily, Giggle Magazine is here to help you with some tips on making tax time easier and getting the most money back (or paying the smallest amount out-of-pocket).

Tax Tips: Put More Money in Your Pocket

BY SELENA GARRISON

What documents do you need?

These quick checklists can help you identify what you need to put your hands on. Some will apply to you and some won’t, so just mark the ones that are relevant to your situation.

INCOME DOCUMENTATION:

• W-2 forms from your employer.

• 1099-MISC forms if you are self-employed.

• 1099-INT forms for interest earned or 1099-DIV for dividends received.

• Other documents for income not reported on any of these forms.

moderate income working individuals and families. To qualify for EITC, you must meet certain requirements and file a tax return, even if you do not owe any taxes or are not required to file.

If your income is on the higher end, you may not qualify for some of these deductions and credits. Dr. Michael Gutter, associate professor of family financial management at the University of Florida, suggests taking advantage of plans that your employer might offer, like flexible spending plans to pay for child care expenses or medical expenses with pre-tax dollars and reduce your taxable income. 

EXPENSE DOCUMENTATION:

According to Dr. Martie Gillen, assistant professor of family and consumer economics for older adults at the University of Florida, you also want to take advantage of all credits for which you qualify such as the Earned Income Tax Credit. EITC is for low-income to

54 giggle magazine

Once you have all your documents, how do you file your taxes?

You have a few options.

• You can hire a tax preparer to do your taxes. This will generally cost anywhere from $100 to $300 or more, depending on the complexity of your taxes. You should avoid rapid refunds, as the loans are costly.

• You can also do your taxes yourself by hand, which won’t cost you anything, but you may not be aware of eligible credits and deductions.

• You can use an online service like TurboTax to help you file your taxes electronically, which will cost you anywhere from nothing up to about $50 or more, depending on the complexity of your taxes. This is a great option if you are comfortable working online, as the software walks you through the process stepby-step.

• You can use a free, in-person service like VITA (volunteer income tax assistance provided by the IRS) to have a trained volunteer file your taxes for you.

Usually, these services are limited to people with an income of $50,000 or less. You can find locations throughout Alachua County by dialing 2-1-1 and telling the operator you are looking for a VITA tax preparation site.

Selena Garrison is a wife, mommy of one, small business owner, personal finance blogger, and coordinator of the Florida Master Money Mentor program through UF/IFAS Extension. She loves taking the money skills she has learned through her career and using them to help other families become financially successful!

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Many people take the standard deduction, but if your expenses are more than the standard deduction, you may benefit from itemizing your deductions such as: • Real estate taxes and mortgage interest (If you own a home, you will get statements from your lender and your property tax assessment.)

• Student loan interest (If you make student loan payments, you will receive a statement from your lender showing how much interest you have paid.)

• Moving expenses (If you moved more than 50 miles for a job and meet other requirements, you may be able to deduct certain expenses.)

• Medical expenses (If your medical expenses exceed a certain amount of your income, you may be able to deduct them. You may likely qualify if you had a baby this year – labor and delivery take a toll on your wallet!)

• College expenses (If you have children in college or are in college yourself, you may be able to deduct some of your expenses – keep the 1098-T form from the college.)

• Gifts to charities and churches (Charitable contributions may be tax deductible – keep all associated receipts and bank statements.)

• Daycare or childcare costs (Keep all of your receipts!)

Top Tips to Navigate through a Short Sale

BY GIA ARVIN

Is it a Diamond in the Rough? Not in all cases, but often a short sale home is in need of repairs and maintenance. The seller either does not have the means to maintain it, or they have moved elsewhere and know that they will not be recouping any money, so they choose to no longer maintain it. If you're considering purchasing a short sale, check out the property thoroughly and hire a certified inspector you trust to inspect it from top to bottom. Many short sales are sold "as-is," so asking the seller or bank to repair any damage is usually not feasible. When making an offer, take into consideration the necessary repairs that may be needed to get a loan and budget accordingly.

Is the Price Too Good to be True?

M

any homebuyers have anxiety, especially when it comes to short sales. Below are a few tips and tricks that I usually share up front with any buyer considering purchasing a short sale. If you are prepared, it can result in a great investment for your future!

Patience is Key. Is it worth the wait? A short sale can be a great

deal for you as a homebuyer, but be prepared to wait it out and be flexible about when you can close on the house. The majority of short sales take, on average, three to four months. Less than a quarter of short sales nationwide close with the original buyer, because he gets annoyed with the process. Banks are working on ways to make the process faster and more user-friendly, but in the interim you should have a clear picture of what to expect when you put in an offer on a short sale.

Short Sale vs. Foreclosure. The terms “short sale” and

56 giggle magazine

Navigating Through the Red Tape. The listing Realtor and seller talk and

set expectations about how a short sale will be handled when the Realtor lists a property.

Will only one offer or multiple offers be accepted and passed on to the bank? Will they be continuing to market the property once an offer is in place? Is there a third party negotiator or attorney that is communicating with the bank? Will they take back-up offers? In order to win the short sale game, you have to know the players and the plays. Although Realtors are required by the Realtor Code of Ethics to treat everybody fairly, not every agent is a REALTOR. So make sure you are working with a Realtor that can guide you through the process! Happy home buying! 

Gia Arvin, Broker-Associate at Matchmaker Realty.

Gia is a past president of the Gainesville/Alachua County Association of Realtors, currently serving as district vice president for Florida Realtors, a native of Gainesville, and has been a Realtor for nine years.

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

“foreclosure” are often used interchangeably, but the fact is they are VERY different. In a short sale, the seller is usually very proactive and trying to avoid foreclosure by working out a deal with the bank. The seller is involved from start to finish and still owns the property. A short sale also has a more mild result on a seller’s credit. When you purchase a foreclosed home, the bank has already foreclosed on the previous owner and now it is owned by the bank. Therefore, the overall time from contract to closing is usually much faster than a short sale. With a short sale, you can take out another home loan in as little as two years, compared to a foreclosure which stays on your credit report for up to 10 years.

Price is an important factor to consider when you are planning to make an offer on a property.

Banks want to sell houses, but they do not want to be robbed in the process. A short sale listed price is discussed and set between the seller and the listing Realtor. Depending on the listing Realtor and seller’s philosophy, the price is either set close to market value, attempting to get the best price for the home, or set drastically too low. So low that the bank will never consider actually accepting the offer. This is sometimes done in order to get an offer so that the ball is rolling with the bank. The bank will usually counter offer, which then gives us an idea of what the bank will actually take for the house. This means if your Realtor tells you it is a crazy low listing price, be prepared to pay closer to market value or pass!

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B

y popular demand, the Giggle Magazine and Sweat Life Fitness BIG Weight Loss Challenge is back for its third year!

I am excited and privileged to lead a brand new group of six lucky and motivated finalists on a journey that will change their lives forever.

Last year’s group of five women set a high standard for success. As a group, they shed 150.2 pounds of body fat and lost 90.75 inches from their waists, hips and thighs over the 14-week Challenge. Our goal this year is to do even better. We are going to challenge our new group of ladies to surpass the standards set last year. In order to do so, they must show up every day ready to work hard.

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

1. Jennifer Kozakoff, one of our BWLC ladies, has a great time at our welcome meeting.

2. Allen with Giggle Magazine gives the ladies and husbands the scoop on an amazing year to come.

Throughout the Challenge, each participant will be given the tools to transform her body, mind and spirit. They will all encounter a complete lifestyle makeover. It will not be easy.

We will push and motivate them to achieve more than they ever thought possible. We will challenge them physically and mentally. But, in the end each one will have a new body, a new attitude, and best yet, a new healthy lifestyle.

Follow their stories on the BWLC Blog!

Visit gigglemag.com

Through a series of proper fitness, behavioral and nutritional assessments, we will identify the strengths and weaknesses of our finalists. Then we will start building the foundation. They will learn proper nutrition and exercise techniques. They will learn proper planning and time management. They will learn how to overcome their weaknesses. They will become stronger.

You, our friends, fans and readers, will be able to follow their transformations. You can read their weekly blogs, watch videos and see progress pictures. You can learn what they learn and implement it into your own life. You too can make a positive change!

~Dan

2

3

The BWLC ladies and Dan Griffin of Sweat Life

The 3rd annual Big Weight Loss Challenge is underway!

I couldn’t be more excited for these wonderful ladies.

This will be a life-altering experience.

They will be challenged, inspired, pushed and motivated into a new and healthy lifestyle. We invite you to follow their journey.

~Nicole

4

3. April Tisher, a former member of BWLC #2, shares her experience with the group.

60 giggle magazine

4. This year we welcomed the husbands in to hear all about the program!

Over 30 Years of K-5 Preparatory Programs

Learn. Grow.

Find Success.

• A minimum of two degreed, full-time educators per class.

• Average class size of twenty four students.

• Specialty teachers in science, spanish, technology, art appreciation, logic, poetry, music and physical education.

Gainesville Country Day School is an independent, coeducational, integrated, nonsectarian school providing a unique blend of educational programs for children of preschool age through fifth grade.

We are dedicated to helping children learn, grow, and find success in coming to school.

Gainesville

Country Day School

6801 SW 24TH AVENUE • GAINESVILLE • 352-332-7783 Visit us online at: www.GainesvilleCountryDaySchool.org

CHALLENGE

BiG WEIGHT LOSS

2013

THANK YOU TO THIS YEAR'S SPONSORS

If you would like to join us as a sponsor, please contact Allen Haynes at allen@irvingpublications.com.

p heading

64 giggle magazine

Conception

toCollege

Photo by Christy Prowant Photography

expecting • babies • toddlers • tweens • teens

expecting

infant/toddler

early years

tweens

teens

Real Birth Stories

Planning a Perfect Playtime

Bedwetting

Tweens And Dating

Dear Me...

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p.80

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RT! E L A R E SPOIL

C2C

WHAT BIRTH

WAS LIKE FOR ME: GIGGLE MOMMIES SHARE THEIR BIRTH STORIES

W

e all scour the pregnancy websites and childbirth books to prepare ourselves for the birth of our little ones. But nothing can fully prepare you for what your personal experience will actually turn out to be. And, as we’ve learned, just because one delivery happens one way, that doesn’t mean your next baby’s birth will be anything like the first. Here, a few of the women of Giggle Magazine share their birth stories to give our readers an inside peek into what labor and delivery was like for them.

"3rd time's the charm!"

Baby #1…

40 weeks came and went and still no baby. The days clicked away.

Swollen and tired, I sat patiently waiting for that bundle of joy to arrive. At 41 weeks there was still no baby. At that point I was done. We checked into the hospital on May 27, 2004, around 11 a.m., and began Pitocin soon after. I realized my birth plan was thrown out the window. Since I was hooked up to Pitocin, I couldn’t labor in the tub. Bummer.

Nicole

By late afternoon there was no progress and the doctor needed to break my water. My memory of this was that it was the worse experience EVER. Evening came and I had been huffing and puffing for hours, finding a focal point and telling myself I could do this. Shane stepped in my focal point 4 hours into it and I realized I had to get the epidural. The epidural was a God-send!

By early a.m. I had reached 10 centimeters and was finally ready to push. I felt sick but pushed as hard as I could for several hours. Exhausted and told that the baby was not doing well, I pushed one last time, like my life and baby’s depended on it. He was stuck and there was no way to get him out except for an emergency C-section (not ideal, but a safe end to the long night). Twenty-six hours of labor, four hours of pushing and one C-section later: Tyler Matthew was born.

Baby #2

…Our due date was October 28, but on October 22, 2005, due to Hurricane Wilma looming in the Gulf, the barometric pressure dropped and sent me into the beginning stages of labor. I went to triage and

66 giggle magazine

was not dilated enough. The nurses said they’d send me home once the baby calmed down from being disturbed.

I was able to enjoy an orange Gatorade. Triage update: Umm...baby was not settling down. Actually, I was clawing at the walls. I was in full blown labor and the monitor had disconnected from the nurses’ station. I was stuck in a triage bed with no handles, clawing at the walls for what seemed like an eternity, as Shane was outside with Tyler (who was 17 months old at the time).

Finally, the nurse came in, then the doctor came back in, and they took away my Gatorade. I was not going home.

I was in true labor. So much for my planned C-section the next week. Shane rushed Tyler home and they rushed me to change and down to the OR. (Ever see those movies of the panting lady in the hallway? That was me!)

After a very rushed 1-2-3, we were ready to cut…Nicholas Shane was born!

Baby #3…Joshua Alexander was born on his

scheduled C-section date of February 9, 2008. No labor, no breaking of the water, no stress and no hurricanes looming out in the water. Guess the third time was the charm!

"Been there, done that!"

Baby #1

…I went in for an ultrasound three days before my due date. She estimated him to be a whopping 10 pounds, 6 ounces, so my doctor recommended I schedule a C-section because of his size and the fact that he was only going to get bigger and increase my chances for complications with labor. I didn’t question it and went in two days later on July 29, 2007, for the C-section, and Evan Scott was born. I don't think I really knew what I was doing.

In retrospect, I wish I would have tried a natural birth as a C-section would always be an option. When I arrived at the hospital at my scheduled time, it felt surreal. I remember feeling nervous and excited, but most of all I was naive as to what would happen next. The recovery was much harder than I even imagined, breastfeeding didn't come easy, and the sleep deprivation almost killed me (or so I thought at the time). Welcome to Mommyhood!

Alison

Baby #2

…My second baby was due five days before Christmas. I didn't want to chance my baby being born on Christmas Day, so I elected to schedule a C-section five days before his due date. I was very distracted with general business of our 1-year-old and the holiday season. I threw a holiday party at my house and two days later went in for my scheduled C-section. Erik Thomas was born on December 15, 2008. No sweat...been there, done that!

Continued on page 69

Continued from page 66

Baby #3 and Baby #4...As soon as I found

out I was pregnant with twins, my doctor told me that another C-section was in my future. All I cared about was the safe delivery of the twins, so I didn't complain. We scheduled their delivery at 37 weeks and 4 days...May 21, 2010. Morgan Brooke and Jacob Bryce came out at exactly 6 pounds, 13 ounces each! Yep, that is almost 14 pounds of baby!

"Ah yes...the way to go for me!"

Baby #1…We

were anxious first time parents when our little girl came into the world. While I daydreamed about my birth story and how I would master labor and she would pop out easily... the real story was far from that! As week 38 approached, we were waiting patiently to go into labor naturally when our doctor noticed that my amniotic fluid was low and my placenta had calcified and was no longer providing nourishment to the baby, causing her to lose weight inside the womb. The doctor felt it was safest to induce me at this point. And thus began a very long 24 hours of nonproductive labor. I only dilated 2 centimeters from noon on June 26 to 1 p.m. on June 27! A long 24 hours, but I can't say that I felt a great deal of pain since I had an epidural the majority of that time. I experienced the early stages of labor, but to my ladies who have gone all the way into the deep levels of labor pain, I commend you! When the progress was obviously at a halt, they rolled me into the surgery room and out popped little 4-pound, 12-ounce Nadia Sonali at 1:04 p.m. She was tiny, but perfect. Recovery was very slow, so the pain for me came afterward, but the joy of our little bundle helped distract me from it all.

Leslie

Baby #2

...four years later...a scheduled C-section.

I was determined to have him naturally, but the doctors feared my body would not progress as I was still very pregnant at week 41 with no signs of labor. I'm sure if I waited, nature would have taken its course, but I'm guilty, I was ready. This time, such a smooth easy process! I was a little down that I never gave birth naturally, but I can clearly remember that moment on the surgery table, thinking back to the moans and groans that resonated from the other room just a few minutes earlier and I thought,"Ah yes, this is the way to go for me. Small little pain-intolerant me. Just pop him out for me doctor!" And there he was, my little chubby boy. 7-pound, 8-ounce Xavier Alejandro.

Screaming like a boy! Will never forget it!

"An amazing, crazy experience!"

Baby #1

…While we envisioned what going into labor would be like and prepared ourselves for every scenario, we didn’t have that experience the first go-round. My amniotic fluid was low so we had to check into the hospital on the evening of June 1, 2004, two weeks prior to my due date, for an induction the next morning. The overnight

Cervadil didn’t start dilation at all, so we began Pitocin at 8 a.m. Having nothing to compare it to, I thought the labor progressed painfully but normally. The nurses gave me Nubain for the pain (note: not good to take on an empty stomach-my mind felt loopy and foggy-not at all how I wanted to be in this situation) and late that afternoon, after hours of being stuck at 5 centimeters, the doctor broke my water (ouch!) and jumpstarted real labor. After progressing quickly to 6 centimeters, I received an epidural, which for some reason only worked on one side of my body. I progressed to 10 centimeters within two hours and felt the intense urge to push. After just 10 minutes of pushing, our little Miles Rayguen was born on June 2, 2004!

Baby #2

…There was no medical need for an induction this time, so our second baby came when he was ready. I felt the twinges of contractions on the morning of July 14, 2006, two days past our due date, but went about our day as usual. I took Miles to his Summer Time Fun class at our church (stopping in the parking lot for a few powerful contractions) and went to my shop to open up. By the time I walked into the shop, I was having regular, extremely strong contractions. I called my husband to pick me up, my employee to come in to work, my aunt to pick up Miles from his class and my parents and sisters to get on the road to Gainesville! I labored throughout the day at the hospital, slowly progressing, and received an epidural right before the doctor broke my water. I asked for the epidural to be turned off at one point because I was feeling so numb, but kicked it back up after enduring a few hours of incredible contractions. Again, the pushing phase only took minutes and Carson Taylor arrived at 6:17 p.m.!

Baby #3…He had his own plan for his birth day, so

we were caught off guard and still talk about it as the most surreal moment of our lives. Three weeks before his due date, I woke up at 2 a.m. with a small amount of fluid leaking and a slight backache. Within minutes, I was hit with the most powerful contractions I’ve ever experienced. Because it was the middle of the night, I tried to calm everything down by lying on my left side, drinking some water and having my husband massage my back. Nothing worked. I called my mom and thankfully she answered. The contractions were so severe that I couldn’t even talk to her; I could only kneel on the floor beside my bed and moan. My husband spoke with her and they were both convinced we needed to go to the hospital immediately. He put our two sleeping boys into the car (still in their pj’s) and called my aunt and one of our babysitters to meet us at the hospital. I was having intense contractions every two minutes on the way to the hospital and could barely walk from the car to the elevator. I didn’t even have time to put on a labor and delivery gown. I climbed into the bed, a nurse checked me, announced I was 10 centimeters dilated (and would not be getting an epidural) and called the doctor to come to the room. Our babysitter arrived and whisked the boys out of the room (whew!) and Sawyer Nolan was born on October 20, 2010, at 4:12 a.m., only seven minutes after arriving at the hospital! What an amazing, beautiful, crazy experience! 

Dana

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magazine • feb/march 2013

69

C2C p infant/toddler | Ages 0-3

PICTURE PERFECT PLAYTIME

BY BROOKE NEWELL

M

oms, dads, grandparents and even babysitters spend countless hours wondering if they are making the right choices for the children in their care. How does one know if the activities in the child’s daily schedule are the best ones for the child? When you’re not sure, relying on some experts’ advice can prove beneficial. Gainesville is lucky to have experts like Dr. Grooms and Dr. Black caring for the future of our generation. Mary Grooms, MD, FAAP, is a local pediatrician with Gainesville Pediatric Associates. Nicole Paradise Black, MD, Med, is an assistant professor of pediatrics at Shands.

 PLANNING PLAY TIME

Dr. Black--Encourage direct interaction with your infant and toddler. The American Academy of Pediatrics discourages the use of media (TV, videos and computers, including “educational” products, until children are older than 2 years of age). While it is often easier to have your child watch

72 giggle magazine

 MAKE TIME FOR REST Children will disagree, but naps are just as important as play time. Dr. Grooms explained that children who refuse their nap tend to struggle more in the afternoon and evening, and often have a harder time falling asleep at night because they are overtired or exhausted.

“As far as naps are concerned, most toddlers require two naps a day until 15-18 months, then one nap a day until age 5-6. The mid-day nap is an important opportunity for toddlers and young children to rest and recharge for the second half of the day,” Grooms said.

Moms and dads are much happier as well when children are well rested!

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Dr. Grooms--It is important to allow plenty of time for active play outdoors each day. Activities like running, jumping and climbing employ the large muscle groups and assist with gross motor development and coordination, as well as help set the tone for lifelong activity and fitness. Regular trips to the local park are always a hit with this age group and will allow your child to interact with other children at different ages and stages. Children learn just as much from unstructured play as they do from structured play, so try to strike a balance between both. It is ok to demonstrate for your child the intended use for a toy, but then give him plenty of opportunity to explore the toy on his own. Exploring toys independently fosters natural curiosity and creativity. After your child is finished with one toy, teach him to put that toy away before choosing another. This will not only teach him an organized approach to tasks (which will help with school performance later), but will also help keep your play areas tidy! Another key activity is reading with your child every day.

This will foster a love of books and reading throughout his life.

a television show or play with your iPad, remember that children learn more from live presentations. I urge parents to talk to infants and toddlers as much as possible because this will help with their language development. As a parent of two and a pediatrician, I know that attention spans can be shorter the younger the child is, so it is important to recognize when it is time to move to a new game or activity. Also, I encourage both parents to participate in play time, and remember to HAVE FUN!

 FAMILY MEMORIES As a parent you can worry your life way, but remember to do what you feel is right and just enjoy spending time with your child. The above are suggestions from local pediatricians and the American Academy of Pediatrics that I have followed with my son, with wonderful results. The most important thing is to have a well-rested family and make the time to create memories that will last a lifetime. In order to do this, you may need to block out specific times in your calendar to play together, go to parks, etc. With our busy schedules, it is easy to not have the whole family together, but it is essential to spend time together whenever possible. 

 RECOMMENDED BOOKS “Healthy Sleep Habits, Happy Child”

by Marc Weissbluth, MD “Happiest Baby on the Block”

by Harvey Karp “On Becoming Baby Wise”

by Gary Ezzo and Robert Buckman “Happiest Toddler on the Block”

by Harvey Karp

 FAVORITE TODDLER ACTIVITIES/TOYS -musical instruments -building blocks -board books -outdoor toys such as a wagon and tricycle -puzzles -Tupperware®

C2C

early years | Ages 3-7

BEDWETTING Bedwetting is an issue that

millions of families face every night. It is extremely common among young kids but can last into the teen years.

Bedwetting often runs in families: many kids who wet the bed have a relative who did, too. If both parents wet the bed when they were young, it's very likely that their child will.

Coping With Bedwetting

Bedwetting usually goes away on its own. But until it does, it can be embarrassing and uncomfortable for your child. So it's important to provide support and positive reinforcement during this process.

Reassure your child that bedwetting is a normal part of growing up and that it's not going to last forever. It may comfort your child to hear about other family members who also struggled with it when they were young.

Remind your child to go to the bathroom one final time before bedtime. Try to have your child drink more fluids during the daytime hours and less at night. Avoid caffeine-containing drinks.

Many parents find that using a motivational system, such as stickers for dry nights with a small reward (such as a book) after a certain number of stickers, can work well. Bedwetting alarms also can be helpful.

When your child wakes with wet sheets, don't yell or punish him or her. Have your child help you change the sheets. Explain that this isn't punishment, but it is a part of the process. It may even help your child feel better knowing that he or she helped out.

Offer praise when your child has a dry night.

When to Call the Doctor

Bedwetting that begins abruptly or is accompanied by other symptoms can be a sign of another medical condition, so talk with your doctor.

The doctor may check for signs of a urinary tract infection, constipation, bladder problems, diabetes or severe stress.

D

octors don't know for sure what causes bedwetting or why it stops. But it is often a natural part of development and kids usually grow out of it. Most of the time bedwetting is not a sign of any deeper medical or emotional issues.

Bedwetting may last for a while, but providing emotional support and reassurance can help your child feel better until it stops.

How Common Is Bedwetting?

Nocturnal enuresis, the medical name for bedwetting, is a common problem in kids, especially children under 6 years old. About 13 percent of 6-year-olds wet the bed, while about 5 percent of 10-year-olds do.

74 giggle magazine

Also let the doctor know if your child is experiencing a lot of stress, if you're feeling frustrated with the situation, or could use some help. In the meantime, your support and patience can go a long way in helping your child feel better about the bedwetting.

Remember, the long-term outlook is excellent and in almost all cases dry days are just ahead.  Reviewed by: Mary L. Gavin, MD Date reviewed: January 2012 © 1995-2012. The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission.

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

All the same, bedwetting can be very stressful for families.

Kids can feel embarrassed and guilty about wetting the bed and anxious about spending the night at a friend's house or at camp. Parents often feel helpless to stop it.

Call the doctor if your child: • suddenly starts wetting the bed after being consistently dry for at least 6 months, • begins to wet his or her pants during the day, • snores at night, • complains of a burning sensation or pain when urinating, • has to urinate frequently, • is drinking or eating much more than usual, • has swelling of the feet or ankles, • your child is still wetting the bed at the age of 7.

tweens | Ages 8-12

C2C

TWEENS

AND

Valentine’s Day is an exciting time of year for tweens to interact with peers by delivering kind messages in cards, celebrating at parties and sharing their favorite sweets. But unlike the comfortably predictable annual arrival of Valentine’s Day festivities, anticipating when your child is ready to start dating can be hard to pin down.

DATING

BY JACKIE SMITH

W

hile there isn’t a set schedule or age when every tween is ready for dating, beginning the conversation about relationships as early as possible is important, advised Candice Noble, a guidance counselor at Fort Clarke Middle School.

Even years before tweens plunge into the dating pool, opening clear lines of communication is a vital step to being involved in your child’s developmental journey, according to Noble. Creating an open, supportive environment ensures your child will feel more comfortable talking about their relationships as the years progress.

“During the tween years, kids are mostly still trying to figure out what dating means,” Noble said. “Dating at their age can be as simple as seeing each other in the hallway or holding hands.”

Framing relationships in the context of something tweens are already familiar with, like best friends, can also help. If you’re watching a movie or TV show together and relationship issues arise, ask them what they think using questions like, “Would you let your best friend treat you that way?” or “If that happened to your best friend, how would you handle it?”

Along with conversation, parents need to begin early

78

giggle magazine

“There is strong evidence that healthy dating that leads to healthy future relationships is largely shaped by choices in adolescence and early adulthood,” Harris said.

A healthy, stable relationship is built in part upon a foundation that includes friendship, safety, commitment, respect and trust. Through parents' modeling of healthy relationships and exposing tweens to positive examples, they will internalize characteristics of good relationships. It also helps in filtering out influences, such as the media, that can misrepresent healthy relationships.

According to Harris, by the time they’re tweens, kids have been exposed to thousands of sexually explicit images that objectify both genders. These images shape feelings about body image, identity and other related areas

that condition how they see themselves, others and their world. How well tweens identify with the media greatly influences their perceptions of what healthy or unhealthy relationships look like.

“Wise parents are careful to point out inaccuracies in the media...by clarifying that real love is kind, giving, sharing, unselfish, and wanting what is best for another person,” Harris advised.

Above all else, both Harris and Noble agree that consistent, open communication is key.

“I remember wanting my mom to stop talking to me [about dating] and she never did,” Noble recalled. “That was probably one of the best things she ever did for me. I’m so glad she kept asking questions.”

Of course, Noble warned, parents should allow tweens to have space when they need it.

“Just don’t let them disappear entirely,” she said. 

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

And it’s never too late to start talking, Noble urged.

Incorporating casual dating conversation in nonthreatening settings, such as during car rides or while walking to get the mail, can help alleviate any pressure or apprehension about opening up.

as a model to help kids learn about what healthy relationships look like, recommended Dr. Victor Harris, assistant professor and extension specialist in the Family, Youth and Community Sciences Department at the University of Florida.

C2Cteens | Ages 13-18

. . . e m Dear

BY ALISON WALKER

A

s a parent, one of your main jobs is guiding and advising your children as they go through the ups and downs of life. Theoretically, parents have gained so much wisdom and have had life experiences that have taught them many valuable lessons along the way. Giving the advice is the easy part! Getting your child to listen and learn from that advice (especially your teenager) may be a tricky task.

Sometimes it is difficult to know exactly what advice you can give your children that would make the most impact. What guidance or suggestions would have helped us at their age?

We asked several Giggle parents what advice they would give themselves at the beginning of their teen years (age 13) as well as the end (age 18).

Age 13

Don't be so shy. Speak your mind. Don't worry so much about your looks or what others think, and don't let others take advantage of you!

-Lisa Meyer Always appreciate your family. I know they may not seem cool at 13, but they will be the ones that you can count on for the rest of your life.

- Linda Chervenak Maze Be nicer to your parents because they won't be here forever.

- Craig Carpenter

80 giggle magazine

hing put everyt

college."

and into

ick -Tina Worn

Age 18

Focus, focus, focus on what difference you would like to make in this world and do what makes you happy!

-Lisa Meyer Forget about guys and put everything into college.

- Tina Wornick Listen to your intuition. If something doesn’t feel right, it probably isn’t the best thing for you and you just know it deep inside.

- Linda Chervenak Maze Invest in Microsoft and Apple.

- Craig Carpenter 

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Enjoy your parents to the fullest extent because you never know when they will be taken to be with the Lord.

- Tina Wornick

"Forget about guys

p heading trip fees and food/drink expenses. It can all add up, especially when you have more than one little one enrolled. Next, once you have a good group to choose from, ask your kiddo which one he would like. Really listen to the reasons behind his choices. Are his friends going to be there? Is it at his school where he is in a familiar setting? Will he be playing his favorite sport?

After narrowing it down to the top choices, confirm registration dates, hours, final costs, safety procedures, etc. Once you have the best of the best chosen for your little guy, register away!

Summer is a time of exploration and growth, a time when your little one can relax and be himself.

Finding the right summer camp program can make all the difference between an “A” summer and an “F!”

If your

SUMMER

CAMPS

BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE STAFF WRITER

S

There are so many different genres of camps. There are sleep-over camps, space camps, horseback riding camps, science camps, sports camps, swim camps, whale camps… the list goes on and on. It can get overwhelming. The best place to start when choosing the right summer camp for your child is to eliminate those that do not fit within your budget. Make sure when budgeting that you account for any extended time fees, registration fees, travel fees, field

82 giggle magazine

Science

Register them for:

Science Camp Invention Camp Space Camp Computer and Tech Camp Engineering Camp Robotics Camp Video Game Design Camp

Nature Museum Camp Science Camp Zoo Camp Hiking and Bugs & Wildlife Camp Survival Training Camp Girl Scouts/Boy Scouts Camp

Art Museum Camp Craft Camp Art Camp Film and Video Camp Fashion Camp Drama and Acting Camp Dance Camp Music Camp Debate and Leadership Camp

Sports Soccer Camp Baseball Camp Rock Climbing Camp Lacrosse Camp Golf Camp

Swimming Camp Gymnastics Camp Horse Riding Camp Tennis Camp Cheerleading Camp

© 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

ometimes choosing a summer camp program for your child can be as hard as choosing the right name when he is born. So many choices, and they all sound okay, but which one is perfect? Just as you settled on little Henry’s name, you will find him the perfect summer camp that fits his love of lizards and science, or is it his love of art and soccer?

child likes...

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2013

83

MONDAY–THURSDAY: 7:45am - 5:00pm FRIDAY: 7:45am - 12:45pm SKILLS: Skills

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High-Tech Homeschool

HOME

BY TARA GRIFFIN

THERE ARE SO MANY COOL WAYS TO INTEGRATE TECHNOLOGY INTO A HOMESCHOOL CURRICULUM. WHILE I TREASURE MOMENTS OF COZY BOOK Photo by mikifoto READING, HISTORY MUSEUM VISITS AND HANDS-ON ART, THE AVAILABILITY OF NEW AND EXCITING FORMS OF TECHNOLOGICAL MEDIA IS TOO INTERESTING TO IGNORE. AND IN THIS EVER-CHANGING WORLD, I WANT MY CHILDREN TO BE CONFIDENT AND FLUENT IN THE TECHNOLOGICAL RESOURCES AVAILABLE TO THEM. THE SPECIFIC DEVICES AND METHODS WILL NO DOUBT CHANGE SEVERAL TIMES BEFORE THEY HIT THE JOB MARKET, BUT EARLY FAMILIARITY WILL LEAD TO BETTER UNDERSTANDING IN THE FUTURE.

Learning the US presidents by playing Presidents vs. Aliens on the iPad outside on a beautiful morning.

Here are nine ways our homeschool is high-tech (or at least medium-tech):

Photos submitted by Tara Griffin

• Email and Facebook: Digital communication is essential for homeschoolers. This is how we schedule field trips, classes, playdates and special events, research curriculum, read current events and enjoy camaraderie. Typically the first posts I read in the morning over coffee are from Gifted Homeschoolers Forum and Visual Latin on Facebook.

Their posts are current, helpful, and usually apply to my daily needs as a homeschool mom. For local moms, Gainesville Area Homeschoolers Facebook group is also useful for meet-ups and events.

• Websites: Stuck on a math concept? There’s a YouTube video for that. I reference YouTube and Wikipedia almost daily. There’s always a good graphic visual or unknown fact to be discovered. Specifically, we love: Vi Hart (if you have not seen her math videos, you MUST), Rubik’s Cube Solutions, learning foreign languages, modern battle reenactments (there are tons, for just about every era – medieval, colonial, Celtic…) and movie clips. Today we even looked up “how to find the elusive penny” in our Find It game...and yep, there was a solution.

Other websites the kids currently enjoy: ixl.com (excellent math site), freerice.com (language, math, art, free and fun), pbskids.org (an old standby, but the kids still enjoy and learn), translate.google.com (it’s just fun), and khanacademy.org (one of the coolest things to happen to the internet). I also like: deepspacesparkle.com (cool art lessons), enchantedlearning.com (good printables), wordywormreading. com (for emerging readers), singaporemath.com (good practice tests), teacherexpress.scholastic.com (downloadable resources), and handwritingworksheets.com (free and easy handwriting skill builders).

• TV/DVD: PBS has truly excellent shows and documentaries (everything from “Wild Kratts” to “NOVA”), and we check DVDs out from the library with a variety of topics from the Science of Disney Imagineering to Egyptian Mysteries to Learning Chinese.

• Music: An ancient form of enjoyment made modern with our use of the iPhone and streaming Pandora - it's amazing what a little background Mozart will do for a boring old math lesson. And we love to

Taking digital pictures for a nature-based art and science project.

read the backstory of the musicians that comes along with each song.

• iPhone apps: Of course there are flashcards for sight words and times tables and just about anything, but our favorite apps are: Endomondo (free) to track distance when we go for a run or bike ride, Teach Me Kindergarten, an interactive app for math and reading, Mad Libs, State Capitals, and Amazon.com for virtual reviews of anything we’re considering, ever.

• iPad apps: Dragon Dictation is amazing. Tanner (my 8-year-old) tells it a whole story (which would take him two days to type), then emails it to himself, proofreads it on the laptop, prints, illustrates, and puts it away, all in about an Continued on page 87

FOR EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW TO BEGIN HOMESCHOOLING IN ALACHUA COUNTY, VISIT: www.sbac.edu/~research/HomeSchool.html

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magazine • feb/march 2013

85

Continued from page 85

hour. Other favorites include: Stack the States, Presidents vs. Aliens, and Martha Stewart Craft Studio (a favorite of my 5-year-old).

• Digital camera: We use a digital camera for documenting schoolwork, creating stop-motion animation, making digital photography art, and recording/analyzing finds from nature hikes, art walks and science experiments.

I’m also teaching the kids to use Adobe Photoshop and Illustrator, because editing the pictures is even more fun than taking them.

• Blog: Both my kids keep a blog. It’s good practice for typing, writing, editing and communicating their work with their friends and relatives. I filter all comments and spam, and they really enjoy reading the feedback from their audience.

• Nintendo Wii: It’s amazing what an hour of Just Dance will do for necessary exercise on rainy days.

Am I missing anything? Yes. I’d love some foreign language software. It’s up next on my list… 

Tara Griffin is a graphic designer, freelance writer and mother of two.

She can be reached through her blog at www.vintagewinnie.com.

space available

BY BROOKE NEWELL

FEELING SAFE

P

arents, teachers, administrators and children have all been affected by the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary School.

Alachua County’s school superintendent, W. Daniel Boyd Jr., Ed.D., wanted to assure all parents and guardians that students attending our schools are safe. Parents and guardians received a letter from Dr. Boyd on December 17, 2012, that discussed the safety procedures in every Alachua County public school.

in Our Schools SCHOOL SAFETY

SOME OF THE MAIN POINTS OF THE LETTER WERE:

SOME OF THE MAIN POINTS OF THE LETTER WERE: Each school has a crisis plan that takes into account such factors as grade level, geography and the layout of the campus. Those plans are developed in conjunction with law enforcement and are reviewed and updated every year.

Schools conduct lockdown drills and evacuation drills so that students and staff will be prepared when and if there is a real emergency.

The school board has an excellent working relationship with local law enforcement agencies and is continuing to learn whatever they can from the tragedy in Connecticut.

The district is reviewing our current safety and security procedures with all staff in all schools and district facilities to ensure that everyone understands his or her role in keeping children and schools safe.

SCHOOL SAFETY WORK GROUP A meeting between the sheriff, police chiefs from around Alachua County, the school superintendent and other school district personnel occurred after the Sandy Hook tragedy.

After this meeting, a work group was established to address school safety.

88 giggle magazine

Lt. David Lee of the Sheriff's Office, who supervises the ACSO school resource officer program, is in charge of that group, which also includes representatives from all local law enforcement agencies and the school district, including principals. The group is addressing a variety of issues, including facilities and procedures, but one of their primary goals will be law enforcement officers in every elementary school.

Unfortunately, in the wake of all the budget cuts that school districts and law enforcement have suffered over the past four or five years, there's just no local funding available to do this. That's why the group is going to be petitioning the state to provide new money for officers. The group is also asking them to restore at least some school facilities money (we're getting no money this year) so the district can make any facilities improvements that are needed.

This is an important and necessary initiative that will need parent and community support!

HOW DO TEACHERS FEEL ABOUT SCHOOL SAFETY? A local elementary school teacher shared some of the changes put into place in her school to provide a safer school environment. The school now locks doors that used to be unlocked, and all exterior classroom doors are to be closed at all times. She also discussed how she is proud of the relationship with the police department and how her school now has an officer present each day. However she wishes it would be the same officer each day so he or she could become familiar Continued on page 91

Š 2012 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

A copy of this letter is found on the main page of the school district website. (sbac.edu)

According to Jackie Johnson, the public information officer for Alachua County schools:

The 4th Annual Thank you to all of our Sponsors, Guests, and Volunteers!

Sponsored By:

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Thursday, November 8 Gainesville Gone Austin

www.GainesvilleGoneAustin.org Thursday, November 8 6-10 p.m.

Supportedatin Santa part by the Hitchcock Farms Fe River Ranch Alachua County Board of County Commissioners Alachua, Florida www.GainesvilleGoneAustin.org

Tickets $75

Village Journal Patti Shively Supported in part by Ted the & Brandy Wilson Lem & Dana Purcell Alachua County Board of County Commissioners Lady Bug Flowers & Plants Sweet & Savory Creations Good Life Community Paul J McKnight Magazine Gainesville Lunch Out Blog Susan Emerson

Continued from page 88

with the school layout, teachers and students and build relationships with them. Unfortunately, due to funding, she doesn’t know if this is something that will continue next year.

Katie Endelicato, a local fifth-grade teacher, helped calm her students’ nerves by explaining the reasons why they are doing certain procedures, such as using the interior door only, walking from place to place silently and the lockdown procedures. She also informed them that their safety is her number one goal and she will do whatever it takes to keep them safe. She feels that her students’ knowledge of this helps them feel safe.

A PARENT’S FEELINGS ABOUT HER CHILDREN’S SAFETY AT SCHOOL: One parent, whose child is a student at Lawton Chiles Elementary School, feels her child’s school is safe. She is very happy about the fencing that was put in this summer around the perimeter of the school, the gates now in place which filter everyone to the front entrance after school has started, and the police officer who is currently at the school all day. She also appreciates that the principal is out front daily during student drop-off and dismissal is manned by teachers all over school, with everyone wearing their identification badges.

This same mom also has a son in middle school, which has many more access points onto campus. She feels less comfortable with the security at his school, but she doesn’t know how the school could balance all the security that is needed with the mobility the students must have.

She states, “I don't know how you can possibly plan and prevent every possible scenario when you have to operate as a school and all the comings and goings that naturally must occur there. Sandy Hook is a terrible tragedy at the hands of a very disturbed person. It raises our awareness hopefully not only on school access, but gun control and the very large problem we have in this country about our population of people with mental illness.”

AN ADMINISTRATOR’S THOUGHTS ON HER SCHOOL’S SAFETY MEASURES: Holly Burton, the assistant principal at Hidden Oak Elementary School, thinks that all of her teachers feel safe.

The school practiced one lockdown soon after the incident in Connecticut and completed another in January.

“At the end of each lockdown, the staff debriefs about what went well and what areas they need to improve upon. All staff must wear nametags and all visitors must come through the office (like all SBAC schools),” Burton explained.

Overall, parents, staff, administrators and students do seem to feel safe in our public schools. Alachua County School Board and all the Alachua County schools are doing their best to ensure that our children are safe while at school.

“The security and well-being of our students is the primary concern of everyone with Alachua County Public Schools. We have many policies, procedures and plans in place to address a variety of emergency situations, from armed intruders to bomb threats to natural disasters. We will continue to work hard to keep our schools safe.”

--Dr. Boyd THE CRIME AND SAFETY SURVEYS PROGRAM

SOME OF THE MAIN POINTS OF THE LETTER WERE: The Crime and Safety Surveys Program collects and reports data on crime, violence and safety in U.S. elementary and secondary schools. The following statistics are from the Indicators of School Crime and Safety: 2011 report.

Student Perceptions of Personal Safety at School and Away From School • In 2009, a higher percentage of students ages 12–18 reported that they were afraid of attack or harm at school (4 percent) than away from school (3 percent) during the school year.

• Between 1995 and 2009, the percentage of students who reported being afraid of attack or harm at school decreased from 12 to 4 percent.

• A downward trend was also observed away from school. Between 1999 and 2009, the percentage of students who feared attack or harm declined from 6 to 3 percent.

• Between 2007 and 2009, the percentage of students who feared attack or harm at school was lower in 2009 (4 percent) than in 2007 (5 percent). However, no measurable differences were found between 2007 and 2009 in the percentages of students who feared attack or harm away from school.

In conclusion, as a teacher in Alachua County, I strongly support our school board and feel that teachers, staff, students and parents feel safe and know that teachers will do whatever is needed to protect the children in our school. I know that no matter what happens, when I park my car in my school’s parking lot, my job for the next eight hours is to protect and teach my students to the best of my ability. I am sure that every teacher in this county takes this job seriously and would go above and beyond for the children in his or her classroom. 

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2013

91

CALENDAR OF EVENTS FEBRUARY February 1-3

Hoggetowne Medieval Fair Alachua County Fairgrounds

February 20 -23

Will Muschamp Scramble for Kids Mark Bostick Golf Course at the University of Florida Info: designyour.org/muschampscramble-for-kids/

FEBRUARY

8TH

suncountrysports.com February 13

Vienna Boys Choir 7:30-9:30 p.m.

Phillips Center for the Performing Arts Ticket information: performingarts.ufl.edu February 14

Valentine's Day February 15-17

6th Annual Winter Fine Art Fair Tioga Town Center Free Info: 352-692-4466 Info: tiogawinterartfair.org

March 8

Giggle Magazine's 4th Annual Casting Call for Cuties!

Sun Country Sports Center 3-6 p.m./$5 donation per child Benefiting March of Dimes Info: gigglemag.com

March 23-24

Spring Garden Festival Kanapaha Botanical Gardens Info: kanapaha.org March 25

March 9

Passover begins this evening through April 2.

The Wiz

March 25-29

1:30 p.m. and 7 p.m.

Danscompany of Gainesville Phillips Center for the Performing Arts danscompanyofgainesville.org March 16-17

Spring Break

Alachua County Public Schools March 31

Easter

Where the Sidewalk Ends Festival

Rosa Parks Recreational Center, Downtown Gainesville March 17

Puttin’ on the Ritz 6-10:30 p.m.

Fine Arts Hall at Santa Fe College Info: chsfl.org/Ritz

February 16

5 Points of Life Kids Marathon 9 a.m.

Free for children from kindergarten to 8th grade.

Info: fivepointsoflife.com February 17

5 Points of Life Marathon fivepointsoflife.com

February 20-March 17

King O’ the Moon

Fun for the whole family!

Info: thehipp.org

MARCH

23RD

MARCH FOR

March for Babies

Westwood Middle School Park Registration: 7 a.m./ Walk time: 8 a.m.

Info: 352-378-9522

FOR MORE FUN EVENTS FOR YOUR FAMILY, VISIT OUR EVENTS CALENDAR AT GIGGLEMAG.COM

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Sun Country Sports Center Parents Night Out

MARCH

SIMPLY LEAD Friday, May 10th, 2013 Hosted by:

Oaks Mall & Archer Road

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Benefitting Charity

www.chickfilaleadercastgainesville.com

Tickets Available Now

We also offer group and student discounts.

Please contact us for more information.

Location Trinity United Methodist Church

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