Giggle Magazine June/July 2010

al achua

count y’s

PREMIER

F A M I LY

MAGAZINE

®

ha p p y f am ily • h ap p y c ommunit y

TM

JUNE/JULY 2010 • Volume 2 • Issue 3

aa dream

baby shower! go on a

babymoon

gainesville’s

hottie dads!

S pecial

baby issue

expe find lo cting? ts of inside tips !

www.gigglemag.com

Presenting... giggle Magazine’s

Nicole Irving Publisher

g

Shane Irving Vice President Chris Wilson Managing Editor Leslie Vega Art Director Contributing Writers Wendy Joysen, Alison Walker, Helen Kornblum, Dana Kamp, Janet Groene, Sondra Randon, Brooke Kelly, Kelsey McNiel, Jeannine Dupler Editorial assistant: Christina Vila Contributing Photographers Laurel Housden Photography, Kelsey Lynn Photography, Verve Studio, Lifeprints Photography Web Master Julie Rezendes

If you have a child between the ages of 1-12 register them to receive a personalized

birthday card

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 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 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.

from giggle magazine complete with a

special gift inside! irvingpublications

Just go to

www.gigglemag.com and register them now.

Please allow 4-6 weeks for arrival.

5745 SW 75th Street #286 Gainesville, FL 32608 p. 352.505.5821 f. 352.240.6499 www.gigglemag.com advertise@irvingpublications.com giggle magazine is registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. giggle magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2010

happy family • happy community

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every month 8 Charity of the Month

United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation

26 In The Kitchen

Ice cream, you scream, we love ice cream

32 Local Lifesavers

Tips on how to conquer morning sickness

34 Family Spotlight

Carly Rubin bringing bright smiles to Haiti

38 Ladies’ Night Out

Rock Climbing adventures at Sun Country

39 Health & Wellness Summer burn safety

41 Giggle Dollars

The Cost of Having A Baby

45 For Dads. By Dads.

Tips for newbie dads

46 Why I Love Raising My Family in Gainesville

48 Take a Babymoon!

Giggle Trips takes you on a Babymoon for a little pampering before the baby is here!

TM

features

columns

12 A Dream

30 Legal Side of Things

16 Push Gifts

18 All Kidding Aside

Baby Shower

Informing families of the important legal issues that affect them

Tough questions answered about kids, family, school, parenting, and everything in between

Celebrating the new mommy and her hard work to bring baby to the world.

19 Gainesville’s Hottie Dads Celebrating local dads for all that they do and looking good too!

28 Hope In A Tiny Package Giving Families Hope With Cord Blood Donations

36 Organized Solutions

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

25 Read. Learn. Explore.

Giggle’s Reading Corner

33 Stylish Diaper Bags for Moms and Dads

on the cover Dream Baby Shower Gainesville’s Hottie Dads Take A Babymoon

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al achua

count y’s

PREMIER

FaMIly

MaGaZInE

®

h appy f am ily • h appy co m m u n ity

TM

JUNE/JULY 2010 • Volume 2 • Issue 3

aa dream

baby shower! go on a

babymoon gainesville’s

48

hottie dads!

S pecia

baby l issue

expecti find lots ng? of inside! tips

www.gigglemag.com

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Cover model, Ella of Gainesville Photo courtesy Laurel Housden Photography

ISS

UE • PLEA S

If you live in Alachua County and are interested in receiving giggle magazine for free, visit our web site at gigglemag.com to subscribe now! giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

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Letter from the Publisher

W

hat isn’t there to love about babies? Their tiny toes, nose, and the way they smell of baby powder and sweetness. They coo and smile. Or is it gas? They love unconditionally as long as you feed them, cuddle them, and meet their every need.

As much as I am loving the toddler, preschool, and kindergarten ages my boys are currently nestled in, I reminisce everyday about their first few weeks of life and those special moments that I hold so dear in my heart. Those days, for me, are gone, but will never be forgotten. I cherished every night feeding as if it was my last. I consider my three sets of Csection scars my “battle wounds” and I count the 26 hours of labor with my first born as a marathon I won. Now my days are full of gymnastics, homework and choo-choo trains, but I have those first memories locked in my heart forever.

And with my love of all things “baby,” I am so excited to have dedicated our June/July 2010 issue to those little bundles of joy with our Special Baby Issue.

From our intimate giggle Baby Shower, designer diaper bags for Mom and Dad and morning sickness remedies, we celebrate babies and the Mom and Dad’s who love them from start to finish. Enjoy a Babymoon or pick out a push gift. Learn about conquering the financial strains that come with the first year of parenthood. Help others with an easy and painless donation of cord blood. We have all the details to help get new parents started on an odyssey that will never

end. Plus, we have a ton of cute photos of adorable babies littered throughout this magazine!

And in honor of Father’s Day, we recognize Gainesville Dads who are the complete package. He does dishes and laundry, plans family vacations, attends every soccer game and treats his wife like a princess -- and let’s not forget, he isn’t bad looking either. And for the new dads out there, we have some great advice from seasoned veteran fathers!

Organized Solutions columnist Helen Kornblum also has words of wisdom for dads who want to be more organized and those who want to pass this neatness down to the kids.

All of this, and a little ice cream too! What a better way to celebrate the summer than with a big bowl of yummy cold goodness! We breakdown some of our favorite treats in this month’s In the Kitchen feature. Not to mention that a lot of soon-to-be mamas have pregnant cravings for the cold, creamy treats.

Check out our calendar of summer events, too! We have plenty of happenings to keep the family busy throughout those hot summer months.

our cover cutie!

Meet Ella Our cover baby is Ella of

Gainesville, Florida. This photo of her was taken at 7 days old.

She is now almost a year old.

She is simply adorable Photo by Laurel Housden Photography

aNicole Publisher

Photo above, Publisher with oldest son,Tyler

in other giggle

news

We are so excited to share that two members of the giggle magazine family are expecting their own

bund le of s

joy

Alison Walker and her husband Scott are expecting twins, a little girl and boy, this June!

Dana Kamp and her husband Jeff are expecting a new baby in November.

Congratulations

and much love from everyone at giggle magazine! (stay tuned for their adorable photos)

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giggle

When you visit Tioga Town Center, you’ll get a great workout, a friendly smile,

…and Ryan.

Sure, the picturesque storefronts, coffee shop, boutiques, restaurants, postal center, wine bar, world-class fitness center and bakery, make Tioga Town Center a prime shopping destination.

But it’s more than that here— It’s the people who make Tioga Town Center an experience like no other in Gainesville.

People like Ryan Beacher and the staff at Gainesville Health & Fitness Center, who work hard to help you stay in your best shape, that will make Tioga Town Center your favorite place to visit.

So come on out! Take a stroll around and talk to the people who will make Tioga Town Center your favorite destination in town.

Enroll today and receive

FREE Registration Stronger, healthier babies.

Kiddie Academy of Gainesville Every day, we SW 128th Street & W. Newberry Rd. 6476 SW 75thTioga, StreetFlorida Gainesville, FL 32608 32669 (In Brytan Community off of Archer Road) 352.331.4000

do all we can

www.TiogaTownCenter.com

352-264-7724

www.kiddieacademy.com/gainesville

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When you visit Tioga Town Center, you’ll get a custom dental plan, a massage chair to relax in

…and Cynthia.

Sure, the picturesque storefronts, coffee shop, boutiques, restaurants, postal center, wine bar, world-class fitness center and bakery, make Tioga Town Center a primeshopping destination.

But it’s more than that here – It’s the people who make Tioga Town Center an experience like no other in Gainesville. People like Dr. Cynthia Brush and their staff at Tioga Dental, who take the extra time to listen to what your dental needs are, that will make Tioga Town Center your favorite place to visit.

So come on out! Take a stroll around and talk to the people who will make Tioga Town Center your favorite destination in town.

Enroll today and receive

FREE Registration Stronger, healthier babies.

Kiddie Academy of Gainesville

6476 SW 75th Street Gainesville, FL 32608 (In Brytan Community off of Archer Road)

Every day, we do all we can

352-264-7724

SW 128th Street & W. Newberry Rd. Tioga, Florida 32669

www.kiddieacademy.com/gainesville 352.331.4000

www.TiogaTownCenter.com

United

Mitochondrial

Disease

Foundation charity of the month

UMDF. “None of this has been proven and, hopefully, in the next few years we can get research behind it and start to see if this is actually helping patients or not.”

by Kelsey McNiel Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

A

bby Ferrell, a Kindergartener at Talbot Elementary School, will likely be using complex words long before any of her classmates. Words like pulmonologist, riboflavin and gastroparesis could be tossed off her tongue any day now, though she may not know what they mean. That’s because Abby’s 2-year-old brother, Nathan, was born with mitochondrial disease and these words are now a part of his everyday survival.

Mitochondrial disease is a tongue-twister for most adults, and even more have never heard of it. With varying symptoms, levels of severity and treatments, the disease is a lot like autism, which can be a symptom of mitochondrial disease.

“Mitochondrial disease can be anything from incredibly severe to so minor that people don’t know they have it, and anywhere in between. With this disease, it’s highly, highly variable,” said Nathan’s dad, Jay. “So many people are undiagnosed or misdiagnosed. Your neighbor could have it, and you just don’t know, because it was never severe enough to warrant a biopsy.”

Mito, as the Ferrell’s and others who talk about the disease daily call it, affects the five complexes electrons travel through in each cell’s mitochondria. Mitochondria are present in every cell except red blood cells and are responsible for creating more than 90 percent of the energy needed by the body, according to the United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation.

When Nathan had breathing trouble at two weeks, Amber and Jay decided to take him to the hospital. His breathing trouble has yet to let up.

“He would be sitting and watching a movie and you would see him breathing with his whole body,” said Jay, an associate agronomy professor at the University of Florida.

Supplementary oxygen has helped restore some of Nathan’s energy loss. Most days he scoots around the house with a 50-foot long oxygen tube hanging out of his nose, snaking it between end tables and couches, and shouting for help when he gets stuck. Nathan’s gastric problems, fatigue and low muscle tone are common among mitochondrial disease patients. He takes a daily ‘mitochondrial cocktail,’ which consists of various vitamins and supplements that can assist with energy absorption and helping his body run more smoothly.

“We hope [they] help slow down the progression,” said Amber, a stay-at-home mom and the Gainesville ambassador for the

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While it is possible for adults to be diagnosed with mito, it is most common among children. According to the UMDF, between 1,000 and 4,000 children in the U.S. are born with the disease each year.

The numbers are so broad because mitochondrial disease can be incredibly difficult to diagnose, affecting the brain, nerves, muscles, kidneys, heart, liver, and the pancreas, as well as entire systems in the body. The rate of progression is also highly variable.

“You don’t expect to have children and to not be able to think about how their future will be. We don’t know what next month holds, much less 10 or 15 years from now,” said Amber, who also has a 4-yearold daughter, Emma. “It has really caused us to sit back and tickle them more, and be thankful for the lives we’ve been blessed with.”

With very few specifics known, funds for research are at the forefront of the UMDF’s mission.

“It is the one substantive advocate for mitochondrial disease patients and their families,” said Peter Stacpoole, a mitochondrial specialist and professor of medicine, biochemistry and molecular biology at UF. “It has done a wonderful job: it has provided information about counseling and therapies and places to go to seek expert opinions, it brings families and scientists together -- a very unusual forum that is seldom replicated by organizations for any other disease -- and it provides funding for research.”

The UMDF also aims to educate doctors about the disease by funding specialists’ visits to hospitals around the country, like Bruce Cohen, a doctor from Cleveland Clinic, who met with physicians and families at Shands in late April.

“We live with hope every day that [Nathan] will become a healthy adult,” said Amber. “We live with reality. But we exceedingly hope that we may find treatments or a cure for this disease.”

For more information about the UMDF or to find out ways to donate, visit www.umdf.org.

The United Mitochondrial Disease Foundation www.umdf.org.

1-888-317-UMDF (8633).

Amber Ferrell, Central Florida Ambassador amberferrell@gmail.com.

a

When you visit Tioga Town Center, you’ll get the hottest new style, the perfect outfit,

…and Jason.

Sure, the picturesque storefronts, coffee shop, boutiques, restaurants, postal center, wine bar, world-class fitness center and bakery, make Tioga Town Center a prime shopping destination.

But it’s more than that here— It’s the people who make Tioga Town Center an experience like no other in Gainesville. People like Jason Moses and his staff at Vela Clothing Co., who will gladly hold that perfect dress for Friday night, that will make Tioga Town Center your favorite place to visit.

So come on out! Take a stroll around and talk to the people who will make Tioga Town Center your favorite destination in town.

SW 128th Street & W. Newberry Rd. Tioga, Florida 32669

352.331.4000 www.TiogaTownCenter.com

The right time to take the next step.

Prepare your child for school and for life.

Now is the perfect time to take a step that will help better prepare them for school and for life.

Our Life EssentialsÂŽphilosophy provides the perfect combination of nurturing, school preparation and fun. Call now to schedule your personalized tour and discover more about our learning community.

Summer Camps Available

ENROLL

TODAY! Kiddie Academy of Gainesville 6476 SW 75th Street Gainesville, FL 32608 (In Brytan Community off of Archer Road)

352-264-7724

We offer: * Monday - Friday 6:30 am - 6:30 pm * Secure Entrances and Webcams * Clean, Sanitary Conditions * Developmentally Appropriate Curriculum * Balanced Daily Programs * Nutritious, Well-balanced Meals and Snacks * Trained Staff * Appropriate Staff/child Ratios

www.kiddieacademy.com/gainesville

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giggle

magazine • july 2009

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Create the

Baby Shower of your dreams!

A joyful affair Giggle magazine presents a very special baby shower in honor of all the lovely ladies expecting their own bundles of joy.

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1.When planning a baby shower, don’t forget the cake. Nothing will make the mom-to-be more happy than a sweet treat.

(Cake and cookies by Ms. Debbie Sugar Art )

Location: Sweetwater Branch Inn, Set design by ADORE Events, Photos by Verve Studio

it’s all in the little...

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2. As with any party, it is important to send each guest home with a token of thanks and appreciation. Here, we added just a touch of lemon drops to our personalized tulip crates.

4. The details are in the simplicity of the place setting. Simple yellow tulips, teal plates, and antique table cloths tie in perfectly with the summery feel of the party. Use each personalized favor as the place card setting and top each plate with a yummy treat. Simple, yet elegant.

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(Table styling by ADORE Events)

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Preparing a menu for everyone to look at helps them take the guess out of what they might be eating.

(Menu designed by the LV studio)

5. Maternity dress can be found at Miracles Maternity

giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

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Relax...

6

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enjoy

giggle’s number one tip: relax and enjoy yourself. It will be over before you know it!

6. Yummy onesie cookies by Ms. Debbie’s Cake Art

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7. Florals by Crevasse Regency Florist 8. Since it is also in celebration of the little bundle to come, decorating with sweet baby essentials are an added touch of cuteness.

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(Diaper cake and select baby layette items found at Miracles Maternity)

9. Keep food yummy and simple.

Try a mixture of simple appetizers, tapas, and salads and always have a variety of beverages to satisfy everyone’s tastes.

tip!

Keep it intimate, fresh, and fun.

Use simple but elegant details to keep it personal and special.

Work-Out Mommy

Push Gifts!

A gym bag filled with lots of goodies. A fully loaded iPod with her favorite music, new sneakers, workout outfit, a gym membership with day care, socks, and an eco-friendly water bottle.

(Good for those who worked out before and during pregnancy)

Book-Lover Mommy

A new tote bag filled with a new Kindle, a gift certificate for e-books, a cozy blanket, slippers, and her favorite tea.

Organized Mommy

A decorated cleaning bucket, full of eco-friendly and kid-friendly cleaning products and a gift certificate for a cleaning service to come to the house for the first few months to help organize, do laundry, and keep things neat.

Perfect for C-section recovering Mommies.

Photo-Op Mommy

So what do you get the woman who has just given birth to your newborn bundle of joy?

Travel Enthusiast Mommy

How do you thank her for carrying him for nine months, eating for two, suffering through sleepless nights, swelling, heartburn, nausea and stretch marks? How do you show her that you are forever grateful for the sacrifice she made and the gift she gave you and your family?

A “push present,” silly! Typically a gift a husband gives his wife for delivering their child, a push present can be anything from jewelry to a vacation. The trend of “push presents” have been around forever. In England, a traditional push present is a beautiful ring while new mothers in India are adorned with gold jewelry. Here are some creative push present ideas exclusive

Faraway from Family Mommy

from giggle magazine…

A gift certificate, made by you, for a trip away when she is ready, to her favorite spot. Fill a beautiful new carry-on with all the things that she may need while she is there. For example, sun block, hat, and towels. When she is comfortable to go, with or without the baby, start planning away!

For new Mommies who have far away relatives or friends, surprise her with the person she misses the most. Fly in a member of her family or her best friend. Make sure that she would be happy with the surprise. Set up hotel, rental car, and a special brunch for them!

other great ideas...

•Personalized jewelry • Engraved watch • Designer baby bag • Gift Certificates to all her favorite restaurants for take-out • Baby sitting services for older children

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Fill a camera bag with a gift certificate for a professional photographer to capture newborn and family shots, and the newest digital camera to capture all those memories at home. Don’t forget photo paper and a photo album!

Caught the bouquet

Experience at:

LOCATED AT TIOGA TOWN CENTER 133 SW 130 TH WAY, SUITE B JONESVILLE, FL 352.672.6299 WWW.LANGJEWELERS.COM

U.S. Pat. No. 7,007,507 • © • All rights reserved • PANDORA-JEWELRY.COM • PANDORA.NET

p all kidding aside Retired elementary school counselor, Wendy Joysen, answers tough questions about kids, schools, parenting, & everything in between. ear Wendy, My husband and I are planning

Don having another child and are concerned

One of the biggest concerns many parents have when adding a child to their family is the reaction they will receive from their child or children. Often, older siblings will become upset with the idea of having another baby in the house and can react by acting out physically or emotionally. These responses are normal, but that does not mean that they are easy to deal with as parents. Here are a few ideas that can help prepare your daughter for a new addition to your family.

Always prepare your child ahead of time. When expecting, make sure you share the exciting news with your daughter when you decide to share the news with friends and family.

You do not want your daughter finding out she is going to have a baby at home from someone else! You know your daughter better than anyone else, so how you decide to share the news should vary. You can have a talk, read a book or make a special dinner. But, when you share the news, keep your daughter the center of attention. Tell her what a great sibling she is going to be, how she will be able to teach the new baby how to be as smart as she is. Never talk about how great the family is going to be now that the new baby is coming or that the baby is going to be the center of attention. Word your conversation so your daughter feels that she is still the most important thing to you in the world.

Allow your child to help prepare for baby’s arrival. If your daughter is interested in helping get ready for the new baby at home, include her in all of your preparations. Allow your daughter to help set up the nursery. This may also be a great time to have her upgrade her bedroom to a “big girl” room. Let her decorate her own room and feel proud of the design she chooses.

Encourage your child to learn about the new baby. Most hospitals now incorporate new sibling classes into their labor and delivery programs. Sign your daughter up for a sibling class. These classes will teach your daughter about babies, how to hold them and what to expect when the baby first arrives. They also have great projects for her to do that will help her get excited about the baby’s arrival. Some good ideas include making a card to welcome baby and to take a picture of themselves and put it in baby’s crib, so that they always see their big sister! If you are comfortable with bringing your daughter to a doctor appointment, allow her to come in for an ultrasound or to hear the heartbeat. Seeing or hearing this won-

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derful event can make the process even more exciting and real for your daughter. It is also a fun idea to have your daughter and the new baby exchange gifts when they meet. Plan ahead and have a gift waiting for your daughter when she comes to visit the baby for the first time. Make sure she also has a gift to give baby.

Once the baby arrives, don’t let others forget about the big brother or sister. Have a drawer full of little gifts set aside at home, so when people come visit, and bring gifts for the baby, your daughter is not feeling left out and forgotten. You should also continue your daughter’s schedule as much as possible.

Continue visiting with friends and having play dates with them. Allow friends to come over to play if you are having a hard time getting out of the house.

Allow for some alone time with you and your older child.

Having a newborn in the house is all encompassing. Finding time to go to the bathroom and take a shower is nearly impossible! However, it is important that you find time to spend alone with your daughter. You will be surprised how even 10 minutes alone gives her the one-on-one attention she desires.

Take a walk, read a book, color and try to find someone to help you go to your daughter’s programs or classes, without the baby.

Realize that your daughter’s developmental stage in life will affect how she handles the changes in the family and the attention that she desires. Give her important jobs to do with the baby and let her help take care of the baby if she wants. Do not overdo it! If your daughter is not interested in helping, do not force her. Never discount any feelings that she shares with you or another family member. Talk to her about her feelings and let her know you understand and that you care about her.

As long as you show your daughter that you have not forgotten about her and that you continue to love her just as much, if not more, than you did before the new baby arrived, you and your daughter will get through this major life event together.

Good books to read when expecting a baby: “From One Child to Two: What to Expect, How to Cope, and How to Enjoy Your Growing Family” - by Judy Dunn “Will There be a Lap for Me?” - by Dorothy Corey “I’m a Big Brother / Big Sister” - by Joanna Cole “My New Baby and Me: A First Year Record Book for Big Brothers and Sisters” - by Dian Smith

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

with how our daughter will react to the news.

Do you have any tips to help us tell our daughter about a new baby at home?

gainesville’s

hottiedads In case you didn’t know...

Gainesville is full of amazing daddies who not only set the standard for what a father should be, but are quite the handsome guys too! These amazing dads were nominated by their wives to show everyone how lucky they really are!

Hidden Talents:

His cooking skills are stellar, and the man does housework - without being asked!

Steve photographed by Laurel Housden, Eric photographed by Lifeprints Photography

Steve Bradley

Wife Jenni, daughter Campbell (born in March) In Jenni’s words…

Steve will tell you that he never knew his heart was capable of loving something so much as he does our daughter .What I simply adore: his laugh is infectious, his wit is remarkable, his eyes are kind, his cooking skills are stellar, and the man does housework - without being asked!

Steve is a natural when it comes to sports and athleticism. He is an exceptional motivator and communicator and constantly encourages everyone he knows to be their finest. We are just so fortunate to have him as our husband and father.

“And he cooks too!”

-Jenni

strong.

loving.

and hot!

Eric Walters

Wife Debra, son Joa and daughter Zia In Debra’s words...

When I had my first son, he was two weeks old before I changed a diaper. My husband took care of everything from diapers to dishes.

I was instantly convinced that being a daddy was part of his DNA. He is the one that wakes up in the middle of the night with the kids, even though he has to be up at 6 a.m. to go to work.

There is no sacrifice he wouldn’t make for us. One garage sale at a time, he has given up all his “man-toys” from his nice car to his fancy cell phone.

Eric always puts us before himself. As a husband, he supports me in everything I do. He spoils me like a princess and respects me like a queen. He makes sure that I have “me” time every day. He values my role as a work-at-home mom.

Once, I overheard him pray asking God to help him serve us the way Jesus came to serve and not to be served. His heart is to give all that he has without expecting anything in return. He never complains, never raises his voice, never loses his cool.

Hidden talents:

He is a hands-on Daddy dying Easter eggs, decorating cookies, Christmas caroling, carving pumpkins, lighting fireworks…

He is a hands-on daddy dying Easter eggs, decorating cookies, Christmas caroling, carving pumpkins, lighting fireworks…He loves it all! There is no hobby that he enjoys more than spending time with us.

My children and I know that every time we speak to Daddy we will hear the words “I love you.” Eric is the most gentle, loving, giving, and gracious person I have ever met. I am blessed and humbled to share the journey of parenthood with this amazing…and HOT man. giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

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more

hottiedads “Hot daddy-to-be!”

Craig Sussman

Wife: Cherie Baby girl on the way!

“I know he’s going to be the best dad in the world!”

- Cherie

Dan Griffin

Wife: Tara Son Tanner, daughter Tory In Tara’s words...

Dan, is an awesome dad. Loving and kind, cuddly and thoughtful (but tough when necessary), he sets an excellent example, teaching our son how to be a good man, and teaching our daughter how a good man should treat others.

He reads to them. He plays with them. He prays with them. He calls them on the phone when he knows he has to work late. He has high moral standards. I am proud to be the mother of his children. (Plus, he’s HOT!)

Christopher Tisher

Wife: April Sons Nicholas and Andrew, daughter Olivia and one on the way!

Works from home so that he can be involved in all of his children’s school events and makes the most of every detail he plans for the family vacations. He sweeps, mops, cooks, cleans and even does laundry!

“It doesn’t get any better than that and it is all wrapped up in a really good looking package too!” -April

Jim Capen

Wife: Theresa Step-Sons Parker and Dylan

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In Theresa’s words...

Jim is step-father to Dylan and Parker. When their father passed away, Jim became an instant full time father and never looked back. Whether it is telling funny stories about their dad or taking them to visit his property to sending off balloons in the sky for Ross’ birthday, Jim has been there. He has allowed our family to grieve in our own way, giving us support and unconditional love! Ross is the father of Dylan and Parker’s past and Jim is the father of their future.

strong.

loving.

and hot!

Our Giggle Dads!

Jeff Kamp

Wife: Dana, giggle Columnist Sons Miles and Carson and baby on the way!

In Dana’s words...

A “hands-on” daddy since the very beginning--changed the first diaper in the hospital, became the best swaddler, makes breakfast every morning and coaches them in baseball, soccer and golf.

Despite long work hours, he makes time for play and school events.

Jose Vega

Wife: Leslie, giggle Designer Daughter Nadia In Leslie’s words...

He’s not only a cutie, but quite the domestic helper, doting husband and father. He cherishes Nadia catering to her every need, as soon as he arrives home, he’s two steps ahead with all the housework before he’s even asked, he’s an amazing cook and my number one cheerleader in all of my endeavors.

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

An enthusiastic daddy-to-be, he reads bedtime stories to the belly and has plans for many daddy-daughter dates!

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must haves for the baby 1. Keeping babies safe and helping to prevent against SIDS, the GROEGG, a digital room thermometer, is a must-have in every nursery. (www.keendistribution.com) ) 2. Never worry about your stroller being stolen or rolling away again with the innovative Buggyguard (www.buggyguard.com) 3. These Candela Tooli nightlights by OXO will make all children feel safe and secure during bedtime (www.oxo.com) 4. Keep your diaper changing necessities close by and organized with the Toolbox Diaper Caddy from The Land of Nod (www.landofnod.com). 5. Keep baby neat and tidy at meal time with the BABYBJÖRN Soft Bib (www.babybjorn.com)

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If you have something you think deserves the giggle stamp, send us an email at giggle@irvingpublications.com

Photos by Verve Studio

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p read. learn. explore.

g

summer

iggle reading

corner

Hosting a Book Exchange

and other ways to find books for summer reading

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

By Jeannine Dupler

Your kids will look even better lounging by the pool when they have books in their hands. For road trips, they will be much quieter with books on their laps. When school starts, they will be so much more in the groove. If you take a little time to plan for summer reading, it will eliminate a lot of grief in future weeks.

#1 The Book Exchange A book exchange allows the people involved to share recommendations for reading, to clear some bookshelf space, to gain some new titles at no cost and, of course, to enjoy the company of friends. A book exchange should be coordinated for a group of children who share the same reading level and interests. The benefit of these used titles (as opposed to new books or those borrowed from the library) is that a book lost when traveling is not such a big deal, and there are no due dates. Here’s how it works: • Invite up to 10 friends who share common reading interests.

• Ask them to bring up to 10 well-loved books they are willing to exchange.

• Have your guests put their names on slips of paper for as many books as they have donated and put the “tickets” in a box or hat.

• Ask your guests to display the books on a large table.

While you are sipping punch and eating snacks, invite guests to peruse and discuss the books.

• After the books have been examined, begin to randomly draw names. As names are called, each guest can select a book. If you get a large load of books and you want to move things along, you can call a few names at a time.

• Donate any books that went unclaimed.

#2 Award-Winning Books Great book titles for summer reading can be accessed from award winners and nominees. There are many book awards, but these are my favorites: • The Sunshine State Young Reader’s Award is one chosen by

Florida students. The list usually comes out in May and can be found at myssyra.org. There is a list for grades 3-5 and one for grades 6-8. The choice among 15 titles includes a variety of genres (science fiction, fantasy, mystery, etc.).

• The Newbery Medal is an award given annually to a book on the middle school and upper elementary level.

The award has been given since 1922, so there are many titles from which to choose. Annual medal and honor titles can be accessed at the American Library Association’s Web site at www.ala.org.

• The Caldecott Medal is an award given annually for picture books. The award was first given in 1937 and the list of winners includes some of everyone’s favorites.

Caldecott titles can also be accessed at www.ala.org.

#3 Summer Reading Program Sign up for the summer reading program at the Alachua County Library branch near your home. The program begins Saturday, June 12, and is geared toward elementary and middle school students. Incentives are given for reading and recording summer reading, and there are oodles of activities at each branch, such as story time, games, magicians, jugglers, and even a “Giving Tree Drum Circle” held July 11-13 at various locations. Call the Headquarters library at 334-3900 (or your local branch) or visit www.aclib.us for the calendar of events and more information.

giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

25

we

scream for

ice cream!

July is National

Ice Cream Month

And what better way to celebrate than with a quick introduction at some of the more popular types of tasty treats we just love to enjoy during the summer….

ice cream

A classic summer time treat, ice cream has found its way into the hearts of Americans. The US is the number one ice cream consuming country in the world. Ice cream comes in endless flavors, but the classic vanilla is still the #1 seller. Would you believe that the main ingredient in ice cream is AIR? No matter how you eat it, ice cream is a tasty treat that is enjoyed all year round! in 1984, July is National Ice Cream Month and this year, July 18, 2010 is National Ice Cream Day.

frozen yogurt

Frozen Yogurt started off in the 1970s as a way for ice cream lovers to have their cake and eat it too. With fewer calories and fat than the traditional ice cream, frozen yogurt did not win over the hearts of the people until the recipe was perfected in the 1980s. Today, frozen yogurt is as popular as ever with about 100 million gallons of frozen yogurt sold each year.

Fact:

26 giggle The original name of frozen yogurt was “frogurt”

Sprinkles Dispensers!

What better way to decorate those banana splits and ice cream sundaes than with adorable “Sprinkle Shakers” from Boston Warehouse. A take on the classic “salt and pepper,” these sprinkle dispenser have holes large enough for the most yummy sprinkles to pass through! (www.amazon.com)

Top photo by Laurel Housden Photography, product photos by Verve Studio

Fact: Appointed by President Ronald Regan

in the kitchen p

fun + bright S

yummy gelato Cold and creamy, smooth and flavorful, gelato is definitely not your ordinary “cold” treat. Gelato is an Italian frozen dessert made from milk and sugar and combined with ingredients, such as nuts, fruits, and liquors.

What makes gelato different from the typical ice cream treat found in the USA, is that it does not contain any cream. Gelato needs to be stored in a freezer that is set to a lower temperature than regular ice cream, generally 12 degrees lower.

Since gelato is denser than normal ice cream, the flavor is more powerful and generally served in smaller portions.

herbet

What is sherbert? Is it an icy? Is it ice cream made with fruit? Sherbet is actually, by definition, a frozen dessert made primarily of fruit juice, sugar, and water, and also containing milk, egg white, or gelatin. (www.dictionary.com).

Easy & clean

Eating ice cream has never been so much fun for both Mom and kids! With the Dripstick, hands and clothes will be kept clean and kids will love the bright colors and fun ice cream accessory. And if that isn’t enough, it holds either an ice cream cone or a Popsicle stick. Just flip it over… and viola!

Perfect for parties, road trips or just lazy days of summer. ( www.dripstik.com)

our favorite

Bright and Colorful

ways to eat ice cream

These Wave Ice Cream Bowls and spoons by ZAK are the perfect serving bowls for ice cream sundaes. BPA, PVC, phthalate, and lead safe, these ice cream bowls nestle together for perfect serving pieces. Bowls and spoons sold separately. ( www.zak.com)

Ice cream sundae Milk shakes In a crunchy cone Topped with hard shell chocolate sauce Banana split Deep fried Topped with rainbow sprinkles giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

27

hope

in a tiny package

cord blood banking

ceive cord blood that was donated to a public cord blood bank, such as LifeCord.

Unold said many patients have made the decision to donate long before delivery, but the nurses are happy to explain the opportunity upon hospital admission. The donation requires a mother to fill out some paperwork, be in good health and supply blood samples.

“It’s not even an extra needle stick, they simply draw a couple of extra tubes,” Unold said.

At times, Unold said, there is confusion, because there are private cord banks that charge for collection and storage.

But, a public cord bank charges no fees and the donation then can help anyone in need.

“The majority of people are happy to do it, they’re excited about it and want to help,” Unold said.

L

ittle Samuel White doesn’t know it yet, but he may be the hope somebody is seeking. He may save a life here in Gainesville or halfway around the world, because of a simple step his parents took on the day he was born.

“Parents in Gainesville have a unique opportunity to offer hope by donating their baby’s umbilical cord blood,” said Kristy Unold, medical office director with LifeSouth Community Blood Centers.

LifeSouth, in cooperation with the University of Florida and Shands Hospital at UF, operates LifeCord, the only non-profit public cord blood bank in the state of Florida. Parents of babies born at Shands at UF and North Florida Regional Medical Center have the opportunity to donate cord blood at no charge.

Shannon and Bill White of Alachua made that decision before Samuel was born.

“It doesn’t hurt or anything,” Shannon said. “I certainly hope it would help someone. My husband and I are both regular blood donors.”

Years ago, the placenta was considered medical waste. But research discovered that the blood inside the placenta’s umbilical cord is rich in the same kind of blood-producing cells found in the bone marrow and it can be used by patients needing a marrow transplant for treatment of diseases such as leukemia, lymphoma or multiple myeloma. After the baby is born, cord blood is painlessly collected, tested, processed and stored frozen in liquid nitrogen.

Patients needing a bone marrow transplant begin the search for a matched donor in their own families, but seven out of every 10 won’t find one. Instead, they have to look to the national registry to either find a matched volunteer to donate bone marrow or peripheral blood stem cells or to request a stored cord blood unit from the cord blood registry.

In 2009, the National Marrow Donor Program helped with more than 4,800 marrow and cord blood transplants. Today the program reports 20 percent of patients needing a transplant re-

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When LifeCord was founded in 1998, it was the first nonprofit public cord blood bank in the Southeast. Unold explained that adding hospitals has increased the number of cord blood units collected, and these particular communities are racially diverse, which is important for patients searching for a match.

The White Family

“Because a match is based on tissue type, a person is more likely to match someone of a similar racial and ethnic background,” Unold explained. “The more people who donate and the more racially diverse our pool of donors, the better the odds are a patient can find a match.”

The idea of saving a life with such a simple procedure that’s of no risk for the mother or child appealed to the Whites, and Shannon said she’s shared the message with her friends who are expecting.

“It’s so simple, it’s easy for people to donate,” she said.

The impact of donation isn’t hypothetical to University of Florida sophomore Devon Vickers, 20, who received a cord blood transplant in 2006 when she was battling leukemia. She’ll never meet the baby who was her donor or the parents who made the decision to donate cord blood.

But she knows what she’d like to tell them.

“You don’t realize the impact you can have on someone’s life. That one act of kindness saved my life. I wouldn’t be here today without it,” Vickers said.

Visit www.lifesouth.org and click on “LifeCord” for more information.

Top photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com, family photo provided by LifeSouth

By Gary P. Kirkland

giggle

magazine • oct/nov 2009

29

p the

legal side of things

Government 101

By attorney sondra randon, esq with the law firm of Folds & Walker, LLC

N

ow that my colleague, Alison Walker, is out for an issue or two, having twins (a boy and a girl), it is my turn to discuss some of my favorite giggle-worthy legal topics. In an effort to not bore readers to sleep or make them cranky, Alison and I work hard to turn to the brighter side of the law for topics. As one would guess, finding the brighter side of the law is like finding a great babysitter who is planning on staying in the area for more than four years (I was once one of those sitters and according to my ‘mommy’ friends, this seems like a neverending challenge). So here it goes: Since childhood, I have been passionate about politics and the government process. Whether it was running for president of my third grade class or seeking an override to my parents’ veto to a request for a curfew extension, I always found peace in a system with a consistent process. I am pleased to see the possibility that more school children will be exposed to one of the most, in my opinion, interesting areas of the law: the government.

On March 18, 2010, the Florida House passed the Justice Sandra Day O’Conner Civics Education Act (HB 105), which will require all middle school students to take a civics course and pass a state-wide, standardized, end-of-course assessment prior to entering high school. HB 105 must go before the Florida Senate for approval prior to becoming law. As serendipity always does, I had planned to discuss the process of a bill becoming law (a main topic in any civics class) in this column when I found out about HB 105.

Like the U.S. Constitution, the Florida Constitution incorporates the “Doctrine of Separation of Powers.” The powers of the Florida Government are divided into three equal and independent branches of power: the Judicial branch (the court system), the Executive branch (the governor and agencies), and the Legislative branch (the House of Representatives and the Senate). Here, let’s focus on the Legislative Branch and follow our new friend HB 105 through the roadblocks and detours that is our legislative process.

The Legislature is made up of two Houses. The House of Representatives is comprised of one member from each of the 120 representative districts. Due to the different and sometimes competing economic and cultural development needs within many counties in Florida, our representative districts are not

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drawn along county lines. In fact, Alachua County is divided into four different representative districts. This is commonly referred to as gerrymandering. In even-numbered years, representatives are elected for terms of two years. Representatives have a four term limit. (www.myfloridahouse.gov) The Senate is composed of one member elected from each senatorial district. There are 40 senators and each represent a number of districts, which also have gerrymandered lines. For example, Senator Steve Oelrich represents Alachua, Bradford, Gilchrist, Union, parts of Columbia, Levy, Marion and Putnam Counties. State Senators have a term limit of eight consecutive years.

A bill (a proposed law) can originate in either house of the Legislature. In order for the bill to pass, it must pass the house of origination with a majority vote. It then needs to pass the other house by a majority of the vote in order to become an “Act.” After passage in the first house, the bill may be amended by the second house as long as it does not add anything unrelated to the original bill.

For example, HB 105 originated in the House of Representatives and was created by the PreK-12 Policy Committee. The “short title,” which would not be considered “short” to most, explains exactly what existing laws the bill seeks to amend, rights and policies it will enact, and any other requirements related to the legislation. You can see an outline of the bill by clicking on “Search Bill Text” at the Florida House of Representatives web site (www.myfloridahouse.gov). Once a bill is passed by a majority vote in the second house, (also known as “passed by the Legislature”) the language cannot be changed.

Every bill passed by the Legislature must be presented (the act of “presentment”) to the governor for approval. The bill becomes law if the governor approves and signs it or the governor does not veto it within seven days of presentment.

If the governor chooses to veto a bill, he or she is required to send a signed list of objections to the house in which the bill originated. The governor can veto any part of a “general bill” and it extends to the entire bill; the governor also might choose to veto a specific portion of an appropriations bill, which is known as a line-item veto (a power not given to the President of the United States). However, the governor’s veto power does not go unchecked; the Legislature can override a veto by a two-thirds vote in each house.

I hope this article has sparked an interest in your state government or at least provided you with the basis to show-off to your (future) middle school child how knowledgeable you are in Florida civics.

This information should not be used as a substitute for seeking needed advice from an attorney or other qualified advisor regarding your individual needs.

Morning

Sickness Life Savers

BY DANA KAMP

It really should be renamed. Yes, morning sickness does tend to hit most pregnant women as they sit up in bed each morning. But, it doesn’t end as soon as the clock strikes noon and it is no longer considered “morning.” I’d like to vote for it to be called “Prenatal Nausea” or “Mama Queasiness Syndrome.” Either one describes it better and doesn’t make you feel abnormal if it’s 3 p.m. and you are on your 18th “break” at work.

Hopefully, some of these personal tips will help calm your prenatal nausea: Eat something (whatever sounds appealing) before drinking anything. Even if you have to close your eyes and do deep breathing to help get the English muffin down, it will be much better for your tummy if there is some kind of substance in there before you chug orange juice!

Graze all day. My doctor calls it this and I smile every time I think about myself “grazing.” I keep something to nibble on in my bag, at my desk, and in the pantry. Every two hours, my stomach acts like it hasn’t had nourishment in three days and is an empty pit. Granola bars, trail mix, apples, almonds, cheese, peanut butter crackers and pretzels are all easy-to-grab favorites.

Look for ginger, peppermint or lemon flavors. Ginger is an eccentric taste, so the ginger root and ginger candies are hard for some people to eat. Ginger ale, ginger snaps and gingerbread are easier choices. Peppermint candies or peppermint patty chocolates can help calm a somersaulting tummy and feel like a treat as well. Lemon slices in

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your ice water or Italian lemon ice cups can be extremely soothing for a nauseous stomach.

Take your prenatal vitamin at night. This was a huge help for me. My stomach just could not handle the vitamin in the morning, even if I took it after a nice breakfast. Taking it before bed will allow it to be absorbed overnight.

This way, your baby still gets those added nutrients and you get to rest while it’s doing its job.

Avoid spicy, greasy or fried foods. Eating or smelling (and for me, just thinking about) these types of foods can make nausea worse. While you sometimes have to follow your food cravings and aversions to get in a meal, looking for a cold food (less odors!) is usually a safer bet.

Try a morning sickness product. There are several safe and effective products out there that can help ease nausea, at least temporarily. This way you can feel well enough to eat something and stop the vicious cycle of having nausea, then being afraid to eat, then having your stomach feel worse because it’s empty. Preggie Pop Drops are a favorite of mine. I can also personally recommend Earth Mama Angel Baby’s Morning Wellness Tea and Happy Mama Spray. These products feature organic, natural ingredients, so you can feel good about the safety of the products. The Happy Mama Spray is an aromatherapy spray of pure essential oils, so simply spraying some on your wrist and inhaling can calm the icky feelings. This may be more appealing to some since you don’t have to eat or drink it.

It is hard to think positively when you’re in the middle of it, but know that the sickness will pass and you will feel better soon! The greatest reward for battling through it is that sweet baby you will meet in a few months.

Welcome to the world of pregnancy!

Smile, be thankful you are carrying that miracle, and eat another handful of almonds.

ale tip

giggers beforeloywouisr

k il crac he p Two leaves t t head old bu

vice. d a e wis Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

our community’s life-saving answers for every age!

*diaper

bags

even daddy can wear! the new cosmopolitan carryall k

by Petunia Pickle is the gorgeous combination of urban sophis-

tication, perfect functionality, and a hint of vintage flare. With its oversized chic-ness, soft supple velvet exterior and rich array of colors that can satisfy any tastes, this diaper bag is just too good to be true. With a separate coin purse, changing pad, plenty of space, and compartments galore, this carryall will be used way past the diaper stage! www.petuniapicklebottom.com

k the perfect daddy bag

Nothing is cooler and more hip that the Diaper Dude diaper bag! With its no frills urban “messenger bag” feel, any Dad will be proud to strap this on and head to the park. This bag can hang neatly from the stroller while still maintaining its “cool factor.” The Diaper Dude is a winner in our book. www.diaperdude.com

Photos by of Verve Studio

amy michelle k has taken the everyday

diaper bag and turned it into an organized and stylish tote with its Sweet Pea collection.

With storage both for mom and baby nestled in this beautiful bag, it is perfect to take from playground duty to date night. www.amymichelle.com

*diva

for the

mom

fleurvill’s stylish bag Fleurville has outdone k themselves with the sleek and comfy MS3 diaper bag. It is super

comfy to wear with its padded shoulder strap, even when it is filled to the brim, plus it comes complete with The Slip-Not™ Stroller Attachment system to be hands free. Roomy enough for everything you can imagine, but sleek enough to carry all day, this diaper bag comes with Green-LAM® water-resistant exterior, a Fleurville wipes case and pockets galore. Eco-friendly and made from PVC-free materials, the MS3 is a both eco-friendly and Mom approved. www.fleurville.com

giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

33

p family spotlight After discovering that the teddy bears would be turned down, it was Carly who suggested collecting dental accessories.

“My mom thought that it wasn’t a good idea,” Carly scoffs. “And look what we’ve gotten so far!” Even her teacher agrees that Carly should be proud.

“She is extremely self-confident and very caring,” said Jane Marquez, Carly’s third-grade teacher.

Marquez, who has been teaching for more than 30 years, was not surprised to see the bubbly tween take on such a leadership role, which included explaining her project to the class and helping answer questions about the disaster. “Her leadership is obvious.

She’s got a lot of friends in there,” Marquez said. During recess one day, Marquez asked two students why they had gone to Carly for conflict resolution they matter-of-factly replied, ‘Because she’s the leader.’

a little person doing BIG things!

Carly Rubin

Helping Haiti One Toothpaste Tube at A Time

By Kelsey McNiel Photo by Lifeprints Photography

American Girl dolls and Furbies line her room, Lindsay Lohan stars in her two favorite movies and words like “contraband” tangle her tongue. Carly Rubin isn’t the most predictable person to run a charity, but she is probably one of the youngest.

“Just the little things that people can do make a difference in the world,” said Carly, age 9.

What started as a desire to help Haitian earthquake victims snuggle up to a stuffed animal has turned into 2,500 toothbrushes and toothpastes patiently waiting on the Rubin’s brown dining room table.

After having her idea mom-approved, Carly approached her school about a drive. The principal green-lighted a grade-wide drive (students in other grades were already collecting items) and team Rubin got to work. Trinity United Methodist Church, agreed to provide paper copies for the drive and Missy picked up fruit boxes from Publix to collect donations in each classroom.

“She would get home from school and we would try to fit it in between extracurricular activities” Missy said, adding that Carly plays volleyball, takes voice lessons and attends a church program, once a week. “It would have been easier for me to do it when she was at school but the point is, this is her drive.”

The project’s popularity grew quickly: the family dentist, the director of the Alachua County Dental Association, the University of Florida endodontics department and even the daughter of Missy’s childhood dentist, became involved.

“Some particular relief agencies will not deliver stuffed animals because of contraband,” said Missy, Carly’s mom. “She was irritated when I told her and I think it just motivated her.

“It will give somebody the creature comfort of home when they’ve lost everything, and show that somebody cares about them,” said Sheryl Ely, the Rubin family dentist, who dropped 96 boxes of toothpaste and 72 toothbrushes when Carly came to visit.

One day after the disaster, when it was unlikely to hear ‘Haiti’ without ‘earthquake,’ Missy and her husband Chad tried to help Carly understand the devastation. But, it’s hard to imagine something this mother hasn’t shared with her daughter -- from her infectious laugh to her constant volunteering, Carly is a mini-Missy.

“She would go in and the dentists would come out to meet her,” Missy said. “Several of them said, ‘I’m very proud of you.’”

The family has been assured by the United Methodists Committee on Relief, the organization receiving the donations, that these toothbrushes and toothpastes will get to Haitian children.

“I knew she needed to know what was happening and she said, ‘Well, what can we do?’” said Missy. “I was so devastated by how large of a problem it was and I thought, ‘Wow, here’s this little 9-year-old asking what we can do.’

Carly said the boxes will be shipped soon, just after a church collection is complete. And, since her original goal of 1,000 items for Haitian kids has nearly tripled, “the adults can have some, too.”

“I hope that she’s learning that it’s very important to give back to your community,” Missy said. “ That having enough is really all you need.” b

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organized

solutions

dawdith

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

The Organized

Dad

Keeping the family organized isn’t just a mother’s job, especially now when traditional gender roles have changed. We honor dads in many ways on Father’s Day, so here’s a tribute to the men whose good organizational habits add to family happiness.

• Dads in the kitchen or outside with the barbeque make sure they have all their ingredients beforehand so there’s no last-minute dash for a forgotten item. By including the children in their preparations, Dads create an inclusive family activity. They might even guarantee a cheerful clean-up crew, too.

• Dads wielding the vacuum, laundry basket or pot scrubber set a terrific example for cooperation. Some dads are especially gifted at making a game out of family chores.

Playfulness minimizes boring tasks that need to get done and shifts the emphasis from work to fun.

• Dads who keep their tools and hobby stuff contained and organized inspire similar habits in their children. Part of the learning experience in the workshop or train room is caring for your things, so they will be accessible when you need them and last a long time.

• Dads who make time to play with their children despite demanding jobs and other commitments are managing their schedules according to their priorities. They start and end activities on time or as promised, respecting the family’s schedule.

• Dads who help with homework and process their own paperwork on time show their children that it’s important to focus on responsibilities. Dads help the family respect due dates for bills and homework.

Modeling the behaviors you want to encourage may be hard for you at first, but everyone will benefit from the routines that keep your household organized.

Celebrate all the dads in your life for the big and little things they do. Give them an extra hug for supporting the family’s efforts to stay organized!

Helen Kornblum is a professional organizer in Gainesville, FL. She owns NaturalOrderOrganizing.com.

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ÂŽ

giggle

magazine • july 2009

37

night out ladies’ gainesville moms take a break.

Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

This month, our LNO was an adventure in climbing, belaying, and teamwork, as we took to the ropes at Sun Country Sports Center

in Jonesville for a night of Rock Climbing.

After arriving at the Rock Wall, we were welcomed by our wonderful instructors who gave us the ins-and -outs of rock climbing and certified us in Belay. We learned how to tie knots, connect to the ropes, and support our partner. The Rock Walls at Sun Country are perfect for both novice and experienced climbers. With many different routes to choose, there is something for everyone. The rock climbing staff is experienced and supportive, and is there to answer any questions you may have.

Once we were all ready, up we went. And let me tell you, that is one of the best ALL BODY workouts I personally have done in a while.

Sun Country even has Rock Walls that will challenge your physical and mental strength; can you say, UPSIDE –DOWN? One of our lovely ladies actually conquered that wall! You go Tracy!

When the night was over, we had ladies conquer gravity, the fear of heights, and the fear of the unknown. Each of us went up the wall at least once and some went up a least a dozen times.

Thank you to Sun Country Sports Center for a wonderful night on the ROCKS!

a little thrill

seeking

Try the rock

climbing shoes!

Sun Country has Rock Climbing Shoes for you to wear as you go up the wall, at NO CHARGE!

Tuesday night at Sun Country is

Ladies’ Night on the Rock Wall $5.00 for Ladies 5 p.m.-10 p.m.

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gigg le

tips! ready for the

climb!

Summer Burn Safety

*

by Karen Perrin, MSN, ARNP Shands Burn Center at the University of Florida

According to the American Burn Association, approximately 600,000 burn injuries occur annually across the U.S. and 4,000 of these result in death. A number of summer activities can result in burn injuries. Prevention is the key to avoiding such disasters.

Sun Safety

The sun’s ultraviolet rays can penetrate through clouds, fog and haze. Children, infants, elderly persons and people on certain medications are most at risk for injury from the sun. Infants younger than 6 months should avoid the sun and sunscreen. Older children and adults should use a sunscreen that is PABA free, protects against UVA/ UVB rays and use hats, sunglasses or umbrellas. Sunscreen products should be replaced annually.

The products should be applied 30 minutes before sun exposure and reapplied often. If sunburn occurs, apply cool compresses, use over the counter pain relievers, drink extra fluids and apply water based lotion (no perfumes or alcohol) at least three times a day.

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Fireworks Safety Fireworks are amazing and fun to watch. However, burn centers are amazed at the injuries that occur during home fireworks displays. Many parents assume sparklers are safe for children. However, they reach temperatures as high as 1,800 degrees and they have resulted in devastating hand injuries. Approximately half of all firework related injuries happen to children who are just bystanders. It is essential never to approach a “dud” firework. Pour water over non-exploding fireworks and never leave children unattended.

Outdoor Cooking

Most outdoor cooking involves special occasions and gatherings. When grilling, establish a “Kid Free Zone” by marking off a 10 foot circle where no children are allowed. Keep lighters away from children. Never add starter fluid to hot/warm coals.

Never add gasoline to start, enhance or restart a flame.

Keep water or a fire extinguisher nearby. Put out hot coals with large amounts of water. Check all propane fuel connections and follow grill instructions.

Lightning Safety

The state of Florida has a large number of lightning strikes. Lightning kills about 100 people and injures 1,200 people per year, according to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration.

When lightning is in the area you should avoid open spaces, power lines, tall trees, metal fences, close contact with others (keep 10-15 feet away) and water. If caught outside get in your vehicle and close all the windows. If you are unable to get to your vehicle, seek low ground but avoid ditches or trenches. Seek a group of low trees or shrubs all the same height and squat or kneel (do not lie flat). Lightning is not limited to outdoors. Stay away from windows, doors and appliances during a storm. It is also important to avoid telephones and any piping, such as in showers, sinks and bathtubs.

*

Emergency Care

If someone in your group suffers a burn injury, follow these emergency burn care guidelines: Stop the burning process by running cool water (not ice water) over the burn. Remove all clothing from the burned area, cover with a clean, dry cloth and call 911.

Summer is an excellent time to join friends and family for outdoor fun and celebration. Use these tips to avoid injuries and keep everyone safe.

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magazine • june/july 2010

39

May 8, 2010 – Jan. 17, 2011 At the Florida Museum of Natural History

Explore the fascinating world of forensic entomology!

Admission is $6.50 adults, $6 Florida residents, $5.50 seniors and students, $4 ages 3-12, and FREE for Museum members, children 2 and under and UF students with valid Gator1 ID. UF Cultural Plaza n SW 34th Street & Hull Road.

(352) 846-2000 n www.flmnh.ufl.edu/csi Mon.- Sat. 10 am - 5 pm n Sun. 1- 5 pm

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the cost

$

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of having a

baby

By brooke kelly & chris wilson

Financing a Child Through The First Year

A

lthough the memories your baby gives you are priceless, allowing them to happen comes with a price tag.

And, while finances are not the only factor to having a child, it’s a subject that should always be discussed.

According to Brenda Williams, a family and consumer sciences agent with the Alachua County Extension Service, a baby can cost anywhere between $9,000-$11,000 in the first year alone.

So where exactly does the majority of this money go? According to a study by the University of Arkansas, 3,500 diapers will be changed during your baby’s first year and you can expect to pay an average of $72

per month for disposables. Buying disposable diapers in bulk from stores like Cosco and Sam’s Club is key, says Babycenter.com. Several diaper companies also offer free benefits, such as coupons or free samples, when parents sign up on the company Web sites. These days, more couples are choosing to use cloth diapers, because they see the benefits in both their wallets and the environmental benefits.

The other costly item to support baby is formula.

Mothers who opt to not breastfeed or cannot breastfeed will spend on average $105 a month for formula, according to Babycenter.com. But, if a baby is lactose intolerant, parents could end up spending $500 a month. Although formula is a safe and sterile option for baby, breastfeeding can save you a lot of money. According to the National Network of Child Care, feeding your baby, using formula can cost 1/3 to 1/2 more than breastfeeding.

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Money aside, what baby costs mom and dad the most is time. Late nights, early morning and sometimes

leaving from work can all add up. For some couples, staying at home 24/7 is not an option so they rely upon child care, which according to Babycenter.com can range from the low $300s to more than $3,000 per year, depending upon the type of care chosen. But, whether choosing athome day care centers, day care schools or nannies, the cost can be expensive.

Estimates on the actual delivery and medical care

in those early moments of a child’s life also vary greatly.

Depending upon your medical insurance situation, costs range up to more than $20,000. A good health plan can take care of almost 80 percent. Other variables include the health of your baby upon delivery and during its first year of life and whether the deliver is vaginal or by C-section, which can cost up to $2,000 more.

According to figures at www.whattoexpect.com, the cost of baby supplies can really add up. A crib, mattress, changing table and glider chair, according to the Web site, can cost up to $150 each. Car seats, which will be examined before you leave the hospital, can cost from $50 to upwards of $300. Strollers start at $20 for basic umbrella styles. However, most parents like to have at least one durable stroller, which generally costs more than $100.

All of this can mean that sacrifices must be made on the part of parents. The Chinese take-out that you craved as a pregnant mom-to-be, early morning lattés during working times and premium cable TV stations might take a back seat to the “baby fund.”

According to www.webtaxcenter.com, parents also enjoy a number of tax benefits that should not be forgotten come each April. Parents can claim children as dependents as long as they are age 19 or younger (age 24 or younger if a full-time student), make less than $3,200 per year in gross income and still receive at least half of his or her support from a parent. Make sure you get your baby a social security number before you file your tax return, because the IRS will not allow filing for dependency credit without one. In addition, don’t forget about deducting child care expenses.

Adjust your W-2 through your employer. Adding a dependent can increase your take-home pay. Parents also can contribute to tax free education savings accounts, such as the Coverdell Education Savings Account. Parents of adopted children can claim up to $12,500 on taxes. Be sure to check with a tax professional about deductions specific to your situation. Even if your child was born at 11:59 p.m. on December 31, you can claim the child as a dependent for that whole tax year. Parents also can donate used baby items to a tax deductible charity organization.

For more information, visit the following Web sites:

www.nncc.org/Nutrition/feed.baby.html www.babycenter.com www.arfamilies.org/news/money_and_marriage/issue10_children.htm www.webtaxcenter.com www.ehow.com

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magazine • june/july 2010

41

42 giggle

44 giggle

for dads. by dads. p

dads}

first time{

tips from dads for the newbies

“Learn to change diapers

and make sure you can do it quickly.”

-Anthony, father of three girls

“Support your wife as

much as possible because she has just gone through a lot.”

-David, father of two

-Steven, father of four

top

re

e

Ch

ris

well.

bo

ys

Patience is key! h her, f er of t ath

“Take up marathon running... you are going to be up early anyway. “ -Phil, father of three

love your wife

“Make sure you The best gift you can give your child is to model for him/her how to treat their mom and their future spouse.”

“Sleep as much as you can.

You won’t see much of it for a long time!”-Manuel, father of one

“When it’s your own kid’s poop, its just stinky dirt . . . “

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

-Matt, father of two

Babies aren’t made like porcelain dolls. You may be intimidated to hold them, etc. for fear of breaking them, but relax...they’re pretty resilient. Always have a towel, bandana, or something that will serve as a mask close by during those not-so- pleasant diaper changes. Tiny babies produce big smells!

-Jeff, father of three giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

45

why I love raising my family in

gainesville

a

The question, “What do you like about Gainesville” has changed and evolved for my husband and I. Our story starts in 1995 during the Summer B Session at the University of Florida.

As undergraduates, “What we liked about living in Gainesville” would have been answered with typical college student answers.

Friday afternoons on The Swamp lawn, 80s night at the Florida Theater, Five Star Pizza at 2 a.m., and cheering on Coach Steve Spurrier and the Gator football team from the student section of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium.

We enjoyed reading the Independent Florida Alligator with friends in Turlington Plaza, watching free concerts on Flavet Field and eating at Joe’s Deli and Burrito Brothers. We loved our apartment in the “student ghetto” and riding our bikes to class. Life was compartmentalized into semesters and we daydreamed about the future.

Jump ahead 15 years and the future is everything we dreamed it would be. Now married and busy with our first baby, we like living in Gainesville for reasons much different than those of our undergraduate days. Friday afternoons on The Swamp lawn have been replaced with dinners at Dragonfly with friends and co-workers. And a brick house with the proverbial white picket fence has replaced all of the student apartments. But, what we like the most about living in Gainesville is the vibrant cultural scene with the manners of a small, southern town. We like how walkable our neighborhood is and the beauty of the area’s mossy oaks.

As parents, we like Gainesville for everything that it has to offer families -- The downtown farmers market, the Butterfly Rainforest and the Bat House. And while our reasons for loving Gainesville have evolved as we have grown, one thing stays the same. We love living in Gainesville and cheering on Coach Urban Meyer and the Gator football team. Only now, we cheer from the comfort and shade of the alumni section.

Go Gators!

Terra, Steffan and Carter Photo by Laurel Housden Photography

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giggle

magazine • june 2009

46

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2010

47

p giggle

trips

Take a

Babymoon!

BY Janet Groene

When the word “Babymoon” was coined in the 1990s, it was a reference to a bonding time between parents and a new baby.

But that has changed. Most Babymoon packages now are aimed at soon-to-be parents, who want one last fling before the blessed arrival of a newborn.

Babymoon Packages

First, consider the location and getting to and from. If you run into complications while deep in the Amazon or on a rafting trip in Africa, what specialists are available? If the locale involves strenuous travel or a remote place, requires shots or other prophylaxis (such as malaria pills), is in the grip of a flu epidemic or is at high altitudes you aren’t accustomed to, your obstetrician could nix it.

Are accommodations and restaurants smoke-free? Some hotels have rooms for non-smokers but that doesn’t always mean the entire property is tobacco-free. How is local air quality in general? According to RevolutionHealth.com, American cities with the worst smog are Los Angeles, Bakersfield, Fresno, Sacramento and Visalia, California; Houston and Dallas, Texas; New York City; the WashingtonBaltimore area and Baton Rouge, Louisiana. Some foreign cities are even worse.

Second, your travel host may have rules about pregnant women. Many cruise lines, for example, now want the pregnancy to

be less than 24 weeks along by

the end of the cruise, rather than the former industry standard of 27 weeks. Check the calendar before booking a cruise.

Airline policies for pregnant women vary widely. Ask each separately.

48

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After you have several destinations in mind, confer with your doctor about which activities to enjoy and which ones to avoid. The hot tub? The steam room? Deep muscle massage? Spa treatments involving heat, herbal wraps, acupuncture? Because training and licensing for spa workers varies state-to-state and nation-to-nation, this may not be the time to experiment with exotic treatments.

Other features should be considered too. If this isn’t your first baby you might want a resort that has a funfilled kiddy camp for your other child(ren). With sibling rivalry blooming right now, you may decide it’s better to make them part of the Babymoon, rather than leaving them with Grandma and Grandpa.

Where to Go

ere wh

to?

An entire blog (www.babymoonguide.com) is devoted to the when, where and how of Babymoon travel. According to the blog, “For most pregnant women, the second trimester is the most pleasant time to travel. By this time, the nausea of the first trimester is hopefully a distant memory and the discomfort of the third trimester is yet to come. According to the American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology, the safest time for a pregnant woman to travel is between 18-24 weeks.”

One Mom’s Babymoon Alexander Wensley is a Miami mother and director of communications at the Mandarin Oriental. She says, “I had a great Babymoon vacation in 2006. When I was pregnant with my first son Parker, my husband and I did our ‘last hurrah’ to Chile. It was fantastic. We stayed in the city of Santiago for a few days, then went south to Patagonia. Hiking, luxury camping, horseback riding – all amazing. The scenery in Patagonia was incredible. We had so much fun together.”

Photos courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Resorts and hotels offer so many tempting Babymoon packages, it’s difficult to choose. Start with your budget, then look for a trip that nurtures both parents, while protecting the well-being of the mother-to-be. You may have loved the go-go-go beach resort where you zip-lined on your honeymoon, but it may not offer the serenity you need just now.

Many of the most tempting Babymoon packages are offered by bed-and-breakfast inns. They sound romantic, but know exactly what you’re getting into. Many old mansions have stairs galore, claw-foot bathtubs that are difficult for a mother-to-be to get into, and antique furniture with sticky drawers and creaky beds.

Does the inn offer any meals except breakfast? If not, how far must you go to get lunch and dinner? A pint of Chunky Monkey at midnight? Is an innkeeper on the premises or will you be on your own for the night? What are cancellation policies in case health or other issues get in the way?

Many couples put together their own trip. But, with a designated Babymoon package, you’ll get a list of things including, in most cases, a baby gift, a prenatal massage for mother-to-be, some meals, discounts and non-alcoholic bubbly. Some packages are for two nights, some for three, some flexible. Rates vary seasonally and there may be some blackout dates. Some places offer cheaper rates during the week; some are cheaper on weekends. b

gigg le

Don’t Forget to Pack tips !

• Favorite munchies • Morning sickness aids • Comfy clothing • Appropriate shoes for walking • If able, personal pillows and all the things that make you comfortable at home to sleep.

• Ask your doctor for a copy of your up-to-date medical records to have on hand.

• Emergency contact list • Recommendations for doctors and hospitals located in your destination city. (Consult your doctor for suggestions). *Always consult your doctor before travel.

WAITING ON APPROVAL

Calendar of Events June 1-June 30

Guns n’ Hoses: Battle of the Badges LifeSouth Community Blood Centers, Gainesville www.lifesouth.org June 5 8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Gator Football Women’s Clinic Stephen C. O’Connell Center Info: www. gatorzone.com June 5-6 Yulee Railroad Days City of Archer 9 a.m.-10 p.m.

Info: www.yuleerailroaddays.com June 11 Family Movie Night Tioga Town Center Town Square Family-friendly movies start at dark.

Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs.

June 13 Taste of HOME 5 p.m.-9 .p.m University of Florida Hilton Charity event benefiting the Children’s Home Society, Info: www.tasteofhomeevent.com June 18 Toy Story 3 comes to the movies!!!

June 18 Grand opening of The Wizarding World of Harry Potter Universal Orlando Resort

July 25th Music on the Square 3 p.m.-7 p.m.

Tioga Town Center Town Square

June 27 Music on the Square 3 p.m.-7 p.m.

Tioga Town Center Town Square

Free Family Film Festival Gainesville Cinema 14 www.regmovies.com

July 1 Scallop season opens in Steinhatchee

June

July 4 The City of Alachua annual Fourth of July celebration Hal Brady Recreation Complex July 4 7th Annual Clamerica Celebration 10 a.m.- 6 p.m.

City Park, Cedar Key, Florida Games, contests, clams and other food for the whole family.

Clam bag races, clam hunts, cultured clam cook-off and live music in our waterfront park. Fireworks at dusk.

Bring the whole family!

July

July 9 Family Movie Night Tioga Town Center Town Square Family-friendly movies start at dark.

Bring a picnic blanket or lawn chairs.

in our next issue!

For The Love of the Arts

Coupon Saving to the Extreme Seven Wonders of the World giggle Prepares You for Hurricane Season

Plus Football!

Be sure to get your hands on our

Aug a Sept Issue! giggle

magazine • june/july 2010

51

Give your child a head start

on a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.

The American Association of Orthodontists recommends you bring your child in for an orthodontic exam early-usually around age 7, while facial growth and tooth eruption are still occurring. Our doctors will check for several conditions that, if left untreated, can be difficult and costly to correct at a later age or even cause damage to the permanent teeth.

Drs. A. Page Jacobson and Dawn L. Martin have over 45 years of combined experience and offer comprehensive orthodontic care for children, teens and adults. Plus, be assured that our doctors always look at the most conservative treatment methods available.

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457 S.W. Perimeter Glen • Lake City, FL 32025

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has a right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for payment for any other service, examination, or treatment that is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for the free, discounted fee, or reduced-fee service, examination, or treatment.

Interest-free in-office financing & flexible payment options • Most insurance accepted & filed • www.jmortho.com