Giggle Magazine October/November 2014

PUBLISHER

ART DIRECTOR MANAGING EDITOR GRAPHIC DESIGNER VICE PRESIDENT Of SALES

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES

EXECUTIVE ASSISTANT

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS

Nicole Irving

Allison Raber

Dana Kamp

Claire Stortz

Shane Irving

Jen Bass Snider, April Tisher, Mark Chestnut

Sayeh farah

Annaleigh Bonds, Dr. Edmond J. Dixon, Wendy Eckhardt, Nicole Germany, Kelly Goede, Tara Griffin, Allen Haynes, Nicole Irving, Dana Kamp, Lisa Katz, Sarah Kelley, Alexis King, Helen Kornblum, Alicia Chapman Mauldin, Olivia Pitkethly, Ale Russian, Debbie Sorgi, April Tisher, Cindy Vance-Starnieri, Rebecca Vitkus, Dan Waldschmidt

CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS

INTERNS

Patricia Bishop Photography, Shandon Smith with Lifeprints Photography, Terri Smith Photo

Annaleigh Bonds, Sydney Brodie, Nicole Germany, Alexis King, Haley Ponnock, Ale Russian, Rebecca Vitkus

Mission Statement

Giggle Magazine is a modern and refreshing parenting publication that brings together families and their community. We make it our mission to find the joy and humor in parenting, focus on key topics and issues that relate to today’s parents and give parents the resources to be engaged, connected and present with their children during these important years.

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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Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2014

from the publisher

Goingback and reading my publisher’s letters from the last few October/November issues, I realized there was a constant theme. There is something about autumn that brings back those sweet memories of my childhood in New York.

In honor of our “DIY Creative Halloween Costumes” on page 32, I went back to see what I adorned on “All Hallows’ Eve” when I was younger. I found most Halloweens I was dressed head-to-toe in a creation personally made for me by my grandmother.

A talented seamstress, my gram’s skills were unmatched, and not even Halloween would throw her off. I only wish I had the time and talent to sew like her. But I, like most of you, have a career and a crazy family schedule…so we have come up with the most adorable, super affordable and EASY costumes fit for trick-or-treating! Have fun!

One of our favorite aspects of working here at Giggle Magazine is having the opportunity to share all your amazing stories and welcome you into our little family. We had so much fun meeting the Dyal Quintuplets and sharing their amazing story in our feature “Party of Five!”

We also reveal our 2nd Annual Kids Room Makeover winner! Check out the unique new room for an awesome young boy on page 24!

In the season of thanks, I want to thank you for welcoming us into your home and your family. We adore and treasure each and every one of you!

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

Me, circa 1981, in one of my gram's creations.

Photo by Patricia Bishop Photography

Our Countdown of The 8 Most Annoying Parenting Comments

By KELLy GOEDE

From the moment I first set foot in public sporting the teeniest baby bump, I felt like I had a sign affixed to my forehead that said, “Please comment.” Now as I venture out with my four not-so-little “bumps” who are all in elementary school, someone inevitably offers unsolicited, uber-helpful parenting criticism (er, advice).

“Are they all yours?” (Eye roll), “No, I rounded up the neighbors to go shopping.”

I usually just err on the side of kindness and eye rolls in the moment. However, if I detect even the teeniest hint of judginess in their tone, then I attempt to “educate” them and call them out on their rudeness. My most jaw-dropping moments have been when other women have been critical. Let’s all promise not to do this to each other!

In the spirit of arming you with a phrase or two to combat the rampant unsolicited analysis spouting from strangers, I present a Lifesavers list of some of my favorite scenarios and their antidotes.

#8

Walking into Publix with four kiddos, attempting to navigate the parking lot, and an elderly gentleman called out, “You’re going to lose one of them!” If I had my wits about me, I would have told him that there used to be five…and just let that hang ambiguously in the air.

#7

My friend Stacy attempted to shop while her children were climbing, hitting and pushing each other and a woman told her to “Enjoy these days,” since she just sent her own daughter off to college. Really? Enjoy this moment right here? Since this woman was more well-meaning

than judgmental, a nice “Thanks for your input” would suffice. This reeks of the woman’s sadness over her daughter being gone—she gets a pass.

aren’t even pregnant. Or, tell them it’s sextuplets and you’ve got your own show lined up on TLC.

#6

Is your toddler wreaking havoc on Aisle 5? Got an audience? Just smile and announce that this is the LAST time you give him Redbull!

#2

Sometimes the offending individual comes right over and speaks to your child about your parenting infraction: “You should tell your mommy that your little piggies are cold and you need socks.” Your move? Smile sweetly, copy her saccharine tone and tell your child, “Aren’t you glad she’s not your grandma?” Passive aggressive? Perhaps. Effective? Absolutely!

#5

Everyone’s idea of how many kids or what combination of genders make up the perfect family is really a personal decision based on many factors, most of which are out of your control. When questioned about your unique collection of kids, whether all boys, adopted, a singleton, etc., the commenter needs a reality check. Asking her, “You don’t really expect me to answer that, do you?” might make her pause. You can also repeat back the comment for effect. “Did I REALLY just hear you say…” and see how she answers.

#4

Is your 3-year-old still sporting a pacifier? Inform the “concerned citizen” asking you about it that Junior wants the paci all the time now that he’s kicked cigarettes…

#3

Ah, the open invitation to the world to touch your belly and ask when you’re due (even if you delivered months, or even years, ago) and refute your doctor’s diagnosis of only one baby. These people need a reminder about personal space, both physically and emotionally. Rub their belly back! Tell them you

#1

Some comments are beyond personal and might throw you off a bit. Be ready. My friend Deb's daughter has a limb difference and a man behind them in the grocery store was checking out her hands. He asked Deb, “Did you do drugs?” and without missing a beat she told him, “Yes, and it was worth it,” and walked away.

Regardless of how prepared you may be to combat offsetting comments, some may slip past the goalie and attempt to wound you. My best advice is to arm yourself with humor. Chances are, you will never again see the guilty parties and instead of sinking to their level, you can have a good laugh at their expense when you swap stories with your mama friends later. ✽

My most jaw-dropping moments have been when other women have been critical.

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What would you do

if...

your child wanted to trick or treat without you?

“I would let my 11-year-old son trick or treat without a parent as long as he stayed in our neighborhood. My 7-year-old daughter will need supervision until she is 16! They have totally different personalities!”

-Sarrah Hein, Mommy of two

“My boys are in elementary school so I would say something like, ‘I am sorry but I don't think it is the best idea for you to go trick-or-treating without me right now. I need you to keep Mommy safe from all the crazy clowns out there, because remember I am petrified of clowns. So can you walk with me and keep me safe?’ A fun response, but it says they’re sticking with me for another year.”

-Carrie Simmons, Mommy of two

iPhone image courtesy

Scripps Networks Interactive.

Losing Baby Blueberry

By SARAH KELLEy

We found out we were expecting our second baby last July. It was a surprise, but a pleasant surprise! When we shared the news with family, our little one was the size of a blueberry, according to the app we had installed to track the pregnancy. The name stuck and Baby Blueberry became a source of positive conversation in the midst of some trying times. Blueberry represented hope, the future, good times to come.

I felt great as I hit the 12-week mark. The nausea had subsided and I finally had some energy. But I woke one morning feeling “off.” My stomach hurt and I was bleeding. I called my doctor’s office and the nurse practitioner assured me that it could be completely normal but they would see me the next morning. My heart was unsettled. I didn’t sleep that night because of the anxiety that was innately there, and because of the cramping that eventually became contractions.

By morning, I knew something was wrong with Blueberry. I got in the shower and told God I simply couldn’t do this. I couldn’t handle losing a baby.

I was startlingly composed in the waiting room. I had imagined all night that I’d be that crazy, hysterical lady. The one people would stare at and later talk about. Then, in the ultrasound room, the tech had problems finding the baby. For a split second I thought maybe I was never pregnant. And if I was never pregnant, I wouldn’t have to lose my baby. The mind plays tricks on you in times like these.

And then there Blueberry was. I knew what my son had looked like at this stage—full of life, waving his little arms and legs. Blueberry was lifeless. Floating. Still. The tech searched for a heartbeat. There was a thick, flat line across the big screen. She didn’t have to tell me for me to know, but she did.

“There’s no heartbeat. I’m so sorry.”

I didn’t scream like I thought I would. I didn’t ask for a sedative and for the psych unit to come take me away. I just existed. Surgery was scheduled for the next day.

I had a wonderful surgeon who sat and talked to me before the surgery began. In our discussion, she explained the statistics of miscarriage to me. The logical part of my brain appreciated this. What I never wanted to understand before (What woman trying to have a baby wants to hear miscarriage statistics?) was almost soothing to me now. Miscarriage is so much more common than I had ever imagined. Common, yet painful and isolating. Even with loving family and friends, it is so deeply personal and in that moment, you are going through it all by yourself.

Don’t Compare

The day we found out that Blueberry was gone, I texted a

friend. She also had experienced a loss—only her loss was much later in her pregnancy. I cringed when I texted her because, to me, her loss seemed agonizing and impossible. Mine was tiny in comparison. What would she say? What would I say if I were in her position? She texted back kind and comforting words. And still I felt stupid. I was grieving the loss of a tiny blueberry baby. She had to go through labor and give birth to her little girl, knowing she was gone. I thanked her and said something to the effect that my pain was no match for the pain she experienced.

“No,” she said. “Don't compare. Grief is grief.”

But I still felt guilty. I have a healthy boy already. Isn't he enough? I never knew what Blueberry looked like, sounded like, felt like. I never actually gave birth to Blueberry. I have a friend who gave birth to a son who lived only hours and another friend whose son lived only weeks. Those babies were

Photos courtesy of Sarah Kelley.

One mother's journey of loss, grief and understanding

Baby Blueberry was small and had a very short life. But Blueberry was. And Blueberry was mine.

held and seen and named. Who did I think I was?

Don't compare. Don't compare. I think much of our lives are all about comparing. Jobs, money, kids, houses, Instagram photos. And so here I was comparing my loss to others. Measuring up the loss of my baby. And it hurt me. Baby Blueberry was small and had a very short life. But Blueberry was. And Blueberry was mine.

A Mother's Heart

This past Christmas my sister (in-law), Emily, gave me the most meaningful gift—a necklace that she had made with a "B" charm, an angel's wing and a blue bead about the size of a blueberry. It was even more meaningful because it came from her...another mom who experienced what I experienced. She knew how it felt physically and emotionally. I was glad I had (and still have) someone who understands it.

When I first shared about our loss, the response was overwhelming. I received messages from ladies I didn't even know and from ladies I do know who have experienced the loss of a baby, and I never knew

it. There is some kind of peace in knowing they know how your heart feels.

Because although time heals, it is becoming more apparent to me that a mother's heart doesn't forget. I think about Blueberry every single day. I don't ever want to forget Blueberry—I won't. But I have wanted to forget the pain of losing my baby.

I was the kid in class who wanted to present my final project first so I could sit back and relax for the rest of the week. I feel like I tried this method in dealing with the loss of Blueberry. Grieve, I told myself immediately. Deal with it now so it doesn't grow into an unmanageable beast. And then it will be easier later. You can put it behind you and focus on the things to come. Right.

I've learned that this isn't the kind of heartache that you confront and "get it over with." It's the kind of grief that actually confronts you and does so when you least expect it. Like the month when Baby Blueberry was supposed to be born. And as I was driving to Alabama and felt that little blue bead around my neck and rolled it between my fingers and traced it along my lips. Blueberry. My baby. Gone. Ouch.

I miss Blueberry. I'm not done facing it. I'm not drowning in it, but it's not going anywhere anytime soon. I’ll keep talking about it. About this grief with a mind of its own. About how we who experience this kind of grief all need a sister like Emily who understands it. About how a girl’s spirit can and will survive. And about the grace and peace that is so beautifully and unexpectedly present in the midst of it all. ✽

‹ From Emily – the sweetest gift.

Merging Your Family Traditions While Creating New Ones!

By OLIVIA K. PITKETHLy, MA, LMHC

The holiday season is just around the corner! Like many of you, while planning and decorating, the holidays always bring back memories of my own childhood. Our whole family would gather at my Cuban grandmother’s house on Christmas Eve for a Noche Buena feast, complete with roast pork, rice and black beans, yucca and sweet plantains. Now that my grandparents are gone, my mother has taken over to continue the traditional Cuban dinner, and I know someday I will do the same.

Before my husband and I were married, we talked about traditions: which to keep, which to let go and which ones to start on our own. We managed to compromise, but this can be a difficult conversation to have. Here are some tips to help your family have a happy holiday filled with old and new traditions.

Make a list, check it twice

Each of you should write down any and all traditions you had as a child. Include all the holidays throughout the year that your family celebrated. (Added benefit: Sharing your childhood memories will bring you closer together.) Who carves the turkey? Who lights the menorah? How old should the kids be to ring in the New Year? Should you trick or treat in the neighborhood or at a local shopping plaza? Then pick the top two that are most important to you. Have an open discussion, noting the value in each other’s choices. Next, peruse the list and decide which to keep and which to leave in the past.

Location, location

Deciding where to spend the holiday can be tricky, especially if your family does not live locally. You don’t want to offend anyone and you don’t want to play favorites either. You could dedicate one holiday to spend with your family, and

the other to spend with your in-laws. To go a step further, swap the holidays the following year. And there’s always the choice to have everyone celebrate at your house!

Talk about it

Avoid hurt feelings and misunderstandings by talking openly with each other’s families about your decisions. Let them know you made these choices together and would appreciate their support. Most likely they encountered the same issue when they were newly married and may even have some advice or ideas to share.

Start something new

Bringing traditions together is important to many families, but implementing new ones is equally important. Both my husband and I had fake Christmas trees growing up, but now we enjoy taking the kids to cut down our tree at a local farm. If they are old enough, include your children in coming up with creative ways to celebrate, such as decorating placemats or baking cookies.

Go beyond the holidays

The more you and your spouse explore your childhoods, the more memories will come up. What other rituals did your families have? Speaking with several local families, I learned about annual Easter egg hunts, wrapping birthday gifts in the Sunday comics and making matching T-shirts for the 4th of July. ✽

What are your family traditions for the holidays?

"We host Thanksgiving and wanted to plan something everyone could do, regardless of age, that was fun and active. Kickball seemed like the perfect solution. We are so glad it has turned into a tradition that everyone looks forward to. As all of our kids get older, it will be more and more fun."

Marcia Ise, Mommy of two

"The Easter egg hunt began with friends I've had since elementary school. The annual event brings our families together during a busy but special time of year. We knew it would help us stay connected and allow our children to feel that community. Today the egg hunt has grown as we have welcomed more families into our circle of friends."

Christie Davis, Mommy of four

Overcoming Excuses: Tips to Gain the Edge and Meet Your Goals

■ Refuse to let yourself wallow in self-doubt. You’re alive to succeed. Stop comparing your current problems to your last 18 failures. They are not the same. You are not the same. Here’s something to remember: Your entire life has been a training ground for you to capture your destiny right now. Why would you doubt that? Stop whining. Go conquer.

■ Ask yourself, “What can I do better next time?” And then do it next time. If you spend a decade or two earnestly trying to be better, that’s exactly what will happen. The next best thing to doing something amazing is not doing something stupid. So learn from your mistakes and use the lessons to dominate.

By DAN WALDSCHMIDT

Great people throughout history often fail, quite miserably, before finally reaching their goals, says international business strategist Dan Waldschmidt.

“Van Gogh sold only one painting during his lifetime; Winston Churchill lost every public election until becoming prime minister at age 62; Henry Ford went bankrupt five times; Albert Einstein was a terrible student and was expelled from school; Sigmund Freud was booed from a stage,” says Waldschmidt, author of “Edgy Conversations: How Ordinary People Achieve Outrageous Success.”

“Ideas, brilliance, genius –they all mean nothing without the guts, passion and tenacity necessary to make your dream a reality. But often, people fall back on excuses and give up on trying to reach their goals.”

Most of us have dreams, and many of us have big ones, but few of us actually see them through, he says.

He offers six tricks for jumping off the excuse train and forging the path to your goals.

■ Avoid the need to blame others for anything.

Mean, small-minded people know they are terrible. That’s why they are so cranky and eager to point out others’

mistakes. They hope that by causing others to feel inadequate, everyone will forget about how woefully off the mark their own performance is. Don’t blame anyone, for any reason, ever. It’s a bad habit.

■ Stop working on things that just don’t matter. Not everything needs to be done in place of sleep. If you work for a boss, then you owe him or her solid time. You can’t cut that out. You can, however, cut out television time, meetings and anything else that gets in the way of achieving your goals. Replace entertainment with activity toward your goal.

■ Proactively take time to do things that fuel your passion.

Exercise is a great example. Living in the moment requires you to live at peak performance. A huge part of mental fitness is physical fitness. A sparring or running partner is a great way to refresh physical competition. Physical activity accelerates mental motivation.

■ Apologize to yourself and those around you for having a bad attitude. Do this once or twice and you’ll snap out of your funk pretty fast. When you start genuinely apologizing for being a bad influence on those around you, you learn to stop whining and start winning. ✽

Dan Waldschmidt is an international business strategist, speaker, author and extreme athlete. Visit his website EdgyConversations.com for more information. Reprinted with permission.

The Oyenarte Family

Occupation(s): Bobby is an engineer with The Crom Corporation and Kelley is a hand therapist part-time at The Ortho Institute.

Favorite family meal: Stir-fry teriyaki chicken with rice and broccoli.

Favorite date spot: Dragonfly.

Movie in our DVD player right now: “Rio 2.”

The kids’ favorite books: Natalie loves all books, but her favorite is “Birdwing.” Chase’s favorite is “Percy Jackson” and Avery loves the “Rainbow Fairies” books.

Mommy and Daddy’s favorite TV shows: “Modern Family” and “America Ninja Warrior.”

Websites we love: Netflix, Friv and ABC Mouse.

Favorite sports to play/activities to do: Bobby loves to do triathlons and is currently training for the Chattanooga Ironman. Kelley likes tennis (when she finds any free time). Natalie loves horseback riding and dance, Chase loves soccer, flag football and basketball and Avery loves gymnastics, dance, soccer, jump roping and hula hooping.

Favorite sports to watch: the sports we play, it is hard to find time to watch them, but we love all Gator sports.

Pets: Lucy (our Goldendoodle dog), Cinnamon and Sugar (gerbils) and Squishy Marshmallow (fish).

Favorite vacation: Mediterranean cruise to Spain, France and Italy.

What makes my kids laugh: Tickle fights!

Why we love living in Gainesville: We like that it has a small town feel and the University of Florida provides so many cultural and sports opportunities.

Something that we want our children to have that we didn’t have growing up: We want our kids to travel the world and learn about lots of different cultures.

Favorite day trip: Disney World.

Favorite picnic spot: Our backyard.

Favorite family activity: Roasting marshmallows and watching a movie projected on our backyard fence.

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

Must-have item: Our son has type 1 diabetes so we don’t go anywhere without insulin and a blood sugar meter.

Three words that describe our family: Fun. Happy. Together.

Bobby, Kelley, Natalie (13), Chase (10) & Avery (5)

PHOTOS BY PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHY

Anything else you want us to know about your family? We had the opportunity to live in Doha, Qatar, in the Middle East for a year. The kids attended an international school and we all had the chance to make friends from all over the world. It was a fantastic experience for all of us and we grew tremendously as a family! ✽

Keeping the Generations Connected

By ALLEN HAyNES

Have you ever heard a grandparent or great-grandparent say something like, “I think the computer deleted the Internet”?

Odds are you have, and since technology continues to advance each and every day, computers, tablets and smartphones will only become more prevalent in communicating with grandparents.

So, how do you streamline this journey without getting frustrated when Grandma accidently resets the iPad to factory settings? While this can happen to anyone who hasn’t stayed up-to-date with modern technology, we’re focusing on grandparents so they aren’t left in the dark when the grandkids only want to communicate digitally. Try our Giggle-approved tips for setting up the grandparents for tech success.

Communication — as with everything — is key

First and most importantly, practice patience when questions arise and confusion sets in. It’s likely Grandpa just wants to know how to post his selfie with the kiddos and is less worried about Cloud storage and pixels.

Our advice is to stick to the basics and use familiar language when explaining the technical aspects.

iPads, tablets and smartphones

Tablets and smartphones can be a great learning device for grandparents. With the touch of one button, they can instantly connect and hear about Jimmy’s touchdown or Claire’s straight A’s. Here are a few things Grandma and Grandpa need to know their iPad can do.

✽ Open and close apps from the home screen

Make sure they can open every app and get back to the home screen by pressing the button. Also, make sure they know there can be a few different screens and how to access them.

Great Apps For Grandparents 4

A Story Before Bed – Grandma and Grandpa can record audio and video of themselves reading and send it to the grandkids.

Pill Reminder by Drugs.com – Set daily/weekly reminders for taking medicine.

Silver Surf – Web browsing is made easier with large navigation buttons.

Voice Reading – Hear text, web pages and files read out loud for those needing visual assistance.

✽ Put the apps they use most on the dock Clear out the preloaded apps from the tablet’s dock and replace them with the ones they’ll use the most, e.g. Facebook, Skype/FaceTime, email, etc. This simple switch will make a huge difference. Also, help them become comfortable with opening the Internet, finding the address bar and using the touch keyboard. Investing in a plug-in keyboard may be worth it if Grandpa keeps typing “I lobe yoy” instead of “I love you.”

Computers

The computer will likely be a more challenging teaching experience. Here’s our advice:

✽ Clear out the desktop

Whether PC or Mac, most computers come with lots of preloaded programs on the desktop or start screen. Much like we suggest above, clear these out and replace them with popular programs like an Internet browser and email.

✽ Set the browser up with bookmarks Google Chrome is an amazing web browser that showcases most used and favorite websites. We recommend setting this one up for the grandparents. It’s easy to use and their favorite websites can be showcased as big, easy-to-see icons on the start page. ✽

At age 13, Thaddeus Beavers knows a thing or two (or 20) about reptiles. Friends and neighbors seek his expansive knowledge when trying to identify a snake in their yard or when they can no longer keep a reptile as a pet.

“He either takes it in or finds it a new home,” said his mom, Sarah. “He feels very strongly about preserving the environment and will do his best to keep reptiles from entering the wild.”

To date, Thaddeus is the proud owner of more than 40 different reptiles, including geckos, snakes and chameleons. He has given several presentations at school about reptiles and why they make great pets. He has even begun breeding bearded dragons for local pet stores and hopes to earn enough money to purchase his first car at age 16.

Thaddeus’ unique story helped him win the Giggle Magazine/Campus USA Credit Union Kids Room Makeover contest for a brand new room. In order to accommodate Thaddeus and his growing passion and business, Brandi Catalanotte and the LaNotte Design team redesigned his room with six pull-out shelves in his closet to house several large

tanks and light fixtures, keeping the reptiles warm and cozy. Catalanotte also added an AC unit to the room because the light fixtures produce so much heat. Thaddeus’ other passion is baseball, so his collection of baseball hats was hung on a rack to match the gray and blue hues of his new room.

Friends, neighbors, family and the makeover team were there for the big room reveal. Thaddeus let out a big “Whoaa!” when he opened the door to his new room. And while he loved everything about it, his favorite item was the bright blue and orange logo above his bed for his newly redesigned business website, Minimonsterreptiles.com.

Congrats Thaddeus!

Jerry Benton of Campus USA Credit Union and Nicole Irving of Giggle Magazine pose with winner Thaddeus Beavers and his family and designer Brandi Catalanotte. This is the second year that Campus USA and Giggle Magazine have come together to give a child in Alachua County a room makeover.

great boxes to make them giggle!

Attempting to shop with children in tow conjures up images in my mind (either from experience or watching others) of crankiness, forgotten items, spills and tantrums. Where is the fun? The relaxation? Behold, the subscription box! This service is quickly becoming the answer to many parents’ dreams. Here’s the skinny on some of the many subscription services created with you and your little ones in mind.

By KELLy GOEDE

Sproutkin

Sproutkin offers two subscriptions, one for ages 0 – 35 months and one for ages 3 – 6. The first includes one monthly Sproutkit, and all materials can be kept. The second includes 9 – 10 books with a central theme. Purchase books for 10 percent off retail price and return the rest. Just $24.99/month affords your little reader unlimited Sproutkits, and shipping is free! Sproutkin.com.

Darby Smart

Looking for outside-the-box crafts for tweens, teens and adults? With projects like the “gilded tic-tac-toe” set and “urban oasis terrarium,” this box arrives with all you need. Choose from a monthly “TO DIy fOR box” for $19, three months for $47 and one year for $199.

*Exclusive Giggle discount: Receive your first box free on a one-year TO DIY FOR subscription. Darbysmart.com.

Doodle Crate

Little Passports

Can’t afford to travel the world? This box is a “ticket to an exciting global adventure… as your child learns about a new country every month.”

Pay $11.95 per month plus $3 shipping, or consider a one-time payment for 6-month or 12-month plans. Adventure kits include souvenirs, photos, stickers and more. Check out the USA Edition to learn about two states each month. Littlepassports.com.

Marketed for girls ages 9 – 16+, each monthly Doodle Crate delivers fun materials and interesting techniques to creative hands. Detailed instructions (including video) help girls learn a new crafting technique each month, and the ample materials and inspiration included allow for self-expression. Kits start at $16.95 each month (plus $2.95 shipping) for a 12-month subscription. Doodlecrate.com.

Appleseed Lane

Perfect for children ages 4 – 8, these kits are created by teachers and parents to spark interest in science and engineering. Subscribe monthly or order a single box for $23.95, and allow your little ones to explore the ocean, light and color, music and other fun topics. They also offer a “sibling add-on” option, providing extra materials for $9.95. Appleseedlane.com.

Photos provided by individual companies. Appleseed Lane

photo by Giggle Magazine.

Koala Crate

Created in partnership with Highlights™, Koala Crate delivers all the materials and inspiration for two to three enriching projects to explore with your preschooler. At $16.95 per month (plus $2.95 shipping) each crate will also include a 16-page Imagine! magazine for kids, plus a parent guide full of ideas for extending the play and learning with other at-home activities. Koalacrate.com.

Little Pnuts

Looking for mentally stimulating fun for your babe? Little Pnuts delivers eco-friendly and engaging toys for little ones ages 0 – 6, hand curated based on your child’s birthdate. They send three to five toys every three months for a $240 one-time annual payment or $25 monthly payment spread over 12 months. Shipping is free with the annual subscription. Littlepnuts.com.

SparkBox Toys

Tinker Crate

Designed for kiddos ages 9 – 14+, Tinker Crates help kids explore a new STEM (science, technology, engineering, math)-based topic each month. In addition to all necessary materials to construct a project, kids will receive a 16-page Tinker ‘Zine, chock-full of at-home experiments and science stories to extend learning opportunities. Tinker Crates start at $16.95 per month, plus $2.95 shipping. Tinkercrate.com.

As “the Netflix of toys,” Spark Box sends four educational toys that aren’t found in big box stores. Choose your frequency (every four weeks at $35.95/month or every eight weeks at $23.95/month).

Shipping is free both ways. Edit your “treasure chest” to ensure the toys are age-appropriate. If your child loves a toy, you can purchase it at a discounted price. Sparkboxtoys.com.

BONUS BOX! NATUREBOX

“Every month, you’ll receive five full-sized snack packages, delivered right to your door. you can choose your snacks or get a surprise box…” free shipping means you can have a variety of healthy, nutritionist-approved snacks to please your novelty-seeking snackers, without having to hunt around town. from pear praline crunch to toasted cheddar stix, these yummy snacks and many more arrive in your mailbox for $19.95 a month for five snack packs, 10 packs for $29.95 and 20 packs for $49.95. Naturebox.com.

Get ready for Fall Fun!

As the weather cools and the Gator spirit intensifies, remember—there's more to fall than football season! With spiced cider in hand, enjoy these costume designs, fall festivals and more autumn features to prepare you for months of fun.

STYLED BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE | PHOTOS BY PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHY

Trick or Treat and Something Sweet!

This Halloween, we tapped into our creative juices for some cute costumes that are more sweet than spooky! Easy as 1-2-3 and sure to be a hit, these costumes are a parent's dream (Can you say simple and cheap?), and the kiddos will be the envy of the neighborhood! come and hang out for a spell and have a look!

Materials on page 110!

Silly S'more

PHOTOS BY PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHY STYLED BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE CREATIVE BY KELLY GOEDE

Pretty Peacock

Slip on the graham cracker goodness, add the felt flame crown and "blazing" marshmallow stick, and our campfire-favorite s'more is complete!

a leotard, tights and a homemade tutu and mask in pretty blues and greens are all our peacock needs to be the most beautiful bird on the block.

Gnarly Gnome Sweet Snail Super Scuba Diver

our funny gnome is planning Halloween shenanigans in his plaid shirt, felt hat and beard, rain boots and a mischievous twinkle in his eye!

our darling snail is the most precious mollusk you'll ever see in a sweet cream dress, headband and kraft paper "shell."

With solid black clothing, felt "flippers" over his shoes and a 2-liter "oxygen tank," our scuba diver is ready for a deep water discovery!

"Easy as Pie" Pie Plate Threshold Stoneware, $12.99. Target.

American Flag Pie Plate

Uncommongoods.com, $38. Uncommongoods.com.

Serrated Pie Server Rada Mfg. Co., $8. Available locally from Independent Resellers, on the website RadaKitchenStore.com or by calling 888-771-7798.

Fire Blue Pie Plate

The Pot Spot, $35. Available made to order on Etsy.com/ThePotSpot.

Don't forget the vanilla ice cream or whipped cream to serve with your favorite pies!

by

Photo

Giggle Magazine.

dos & don'ts

halloweenpet safety

By REBECCA VITKUS

There are few sights more adorable than a cat dressed like a pumpkin or a princess puppy. However, with great cuteness comes great responsibility, so remember to keep your pet’s safety as the primary focus when joining in the Halloween festivities.

• DON'T store the treats where pets can reach them.

Halloween candy¬chocolate, in particular¬is extremely hazardous for both dogs and cats. Any sweet treat containing xylitol, an artificial sweetener, can also be dangerous to your pet’s health. Lesser known toxins include grapes and raisins, and even glow sticks and candy wrappers should be kept out of reach. If your pet does consume a toxic treat, call your veterinarian or the ASPCA Animal Poison Control Center at 888-426-4435.

• DO remember to keep a protective eye on your black cats, especially if they wander outdoors. Untruthful myths that associate black cats with dark forces have become familiar in our culture, making these kitties a target for mischievous Halloween tricksters. If possible, keep your cats indoors, providing them with all the love and care they need rather than unwanted attention from insensitive pranksters.

• DON'T let pets near any open flames. Although jack-o’-lanterns don’t always display grimaces and scowls, they can be a scary sight if your curious kitten gets too close to the candle. If you choose to illuminate your pumpkin decor, exercise caution to prevent your pet from being burned by the festive flames. Also keep wires, electrical cords and other fire hazards out of the way.

• DO keep animals away from the door. Unfamiliar noises can cause excessive stimulation for your pets, so remember to help them stay calm and collected. With every ring of the doorbell or “trick or treat” cry, your dogs and cats are susceptible to being startled and acting out. If you are spending the night at home, consider putting up a baby gate to keep Fido out of the trick or treat action and alleviate his anxiety.

costumes for your furry friends

Although playing dress-up with Cleo and Ace can provide hours of laughter for you and your family, it is important to ensure that your pets are comfortable in their costumes. These outfits should never restrict movement or obstruct the ability to breathe. Only place your pet in Halloween attire if they seem to enjoy it, as wearing a costume may cause stress to pets who would rather strut around the neighborhood in their “birthday suits.”

Whether your pet dons a tiara and a tutu or chooses to dress down for the occasion with a simple bandana, always remember to make sure your dog or cat is properly identified with an ID tag, greatly increasing your chances of reuniting with your fluffy friend if you become separated. If you do take your pets for a festive stroll, remember that even well-behaved pets can become spooked around large numbers of children who may also feel uneasy around animals. ✽

By REBECCA VITKUS

Alachua Pumpkin Patch

September 25 – October 31

Route 441 in Alachua Hours vary

With proceeds going to the Native Americans and first United Methodist Church’s youth group, this patch offers pumpkins, gourds and squash for sale for as low as 50 cents. Enjoy photo opportunities with bales of hay and Peanuts character cutouts. Facebook.com –

Alachua’s Pumpkin Patch

Newberry Cornfield Maze

September 26 – October 25

West Newberry Road friday - Sunday; hours vary

Adults: $10; Ages 10 and under: $8

With a tagline like “Laugh by day, scream by night,” this annual cornfield maze is fun for people of all ages. Additional activities, such as hayrides, mechanical bull rides and zombie paintball, are extra; group pricing is available. Newberrycornfieldmaze.com

Pumpkin Patch

October 1 – 31

Trinity United Methodist Church Hours Vary

Join us on the weekends for additional harvest fun, including hayrides and more! Trinitygnv.org

and family fun!

Coon Hollo Corn Maze

October 3 – November 2

On Highway 441 in Micanopy friday - Sunday; hours vary

Adults: $10 (discount for military, law enforcement and firefighters); Ages 4-12: $9; Ages 3 and under: fREE

Visit

with a farm train, cow feeding, pasture putt-putt and a hay bale fort, among other exciting activities. Coonhollocornmaze.com

ButterflyFest

October 4

florida Museum of Natural History

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Adults: $10.50 (florida residents: $9); Ages 3-17: $6

This festival is dedicated to raising awareness about florida’s butterflies as “fun, fascinating ambassadors to the natural world.” Come enjoy refreshments, educational groups, film screenings and more! Flmnh.ufl.edu/butterflyfest

Octoberfest: Rogers Farm Fall Festival

October 4 – November 5 fridays: 5 p.m. – Midnight

Saturdays: 10 a.m. – Midnight

Sundays: 1 – 7 p.m. $12 for all activities

Enjoy a corn maze, pony rides, a petting zoo, duck races and more at the annual festival down at Rogers farm. New activities include dunk tanks and cow milking.

Rogersfarm.webplus.net

Alachua Harvest Festival

October 19

11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

fREE

Join the people of Alachua on Main Street for the 24th annual Harvest festival in Downtown Historic Alachua. Relax on this afternoon of food, family and shopping with local vendors. Alachuabusiness. com/festivals/harvestfestival-2014

Haile Oktoberfest

October 10

Haile Village Center 5 – 10 p.m.

Join in the fun of Haile Plantation's annual fall celebration at the Haile Village Center. Hvcoa.com

Pink Pumpkin Fest

October 12

Uf Health

Pink Pumpkin Pedal: 8 a.m. Pumpkin Painting Party: 10 a.m.

Support breast cancer research right here at the University of florida with the Third Annual Pink Pumpkin fest! Get ready for a full line-up of exciting activities for all ages. Cancer.ufl.edu/ administration/events/pinkpumpkins-rule/

Friends of McIntosh

1890s Festival

October 25

8 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Enjoy the historic town of McIntosh during this annual festival raising money for community projects and scholarship for the town’s youth. It will host over 250 displays by vendors and artisans. Friendsofmcintosh.org

10th Annual Florida Bat Festival

October 25

Lubee Bat Conservancy 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. fREE

Come view giant fruit bats with wingspans up to six feet across! This rare display is part of a festival including crafts, educational exhibits and bounce houses, among other fun activities. Lubee.org

O2BKids Spooktacular

October 25

O2BKids Supercenter 6 – 10 p.m. fREE for members; $15 for nonmember children; adults fREE with child admission

Bring the kids for a fun night of spooky science, a creepy carnival, a haunted house and more! There will be a special costume contest with awards in four different age brackets. O2bkids.com

Great Pumpkin Harvest featuring Trunk N Treat

October 26

Trinity United Methodist Church 4 – 7 p.m. $1 donation; canned good donation accepted

Join the fun at Trinity United Methodist Church for games, bouncers, music from Kiss 105.3 and so much more!

Trinitygnv.org

Sunny's Howl-A-Palooza

October 26

Sun Country Sports – West 3 – 6 p.m.

Adults: $6; youth: $18 – in advance

Join Sun Country Sports Center for its annual holiday celebration benefitting the March of Dimes. Activities include haunted houses, rock climbing, coloring contests and more. Suncountrysports. com/halloween.html

Ghouls, Goblins and Greeks

October 30

Uf Sorority Row 5 – 8 p.m. fREE

Enjoy this unique holiday experience as your kids travel to sixteen sorority houses, each with a theme and games for the kids to play. Security will be provided by UfPD, so come join the games, food and fun!

Boo at the Zoo

October 31

Santa fe College Teaching Zoo 3 – 7:30 p.m.

Admission with one can of food per person

The 19th annual Boo at the Zoo event is here, and you should get your kids ready for a wild trick or treat adventure! Kids receive treats in exchange for the admission pass – one can of food to be donated to local food banks. Sfcollege.edu/ booatthezoo

Trick or Treat on Main Street in Alachua

October 31

Main Street 6 – 8 p.m.

Enjoy a safe and memorable night in the heart of our city! Bring your kids in their best costumes and enjoy a night of trick-or-treating along Main Street. Cityofalachua.com

40th Annual Micanopy

Fall Harvest Festival

November 1 – 2

Saturday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Sunday: 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

A committee of 15 local nonprofit groups sponsors this event, and all proceeds of the festival will assist these organizations in their annual operating costs.

Micanopyfallfestival.org

Gainesville Downtown

Festival and Art Show

November 8 – 9

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

fREE

This nationally recognized event is the perfect place for artists of all kinds to display their work to more than 100,000 people. This year celebrates its 33rd year, including concerts, sculptures, jewelry and more from more than 250 of the nation’s most talented artists.

Gvlculturalaffairs.org

Tackling the Biggest Shopping Day of the Year As a Couple

By WENDy ECKHARDT

There are only a few more weeks until the holiday shopping season is upon us! For years, my husband and I have started our Christmas shopping on Black Friday, the infamous day for retailers everywhere when the official day of holiday shopping is to begin. For some, Black Friday is just another day. For others, it’s the day to avoid the stores at all cost. But, in my family, Black Friday is an event.

Several years ago, my husband asked me to go Black Friday shopping with him. I thought he was crazy. He wanted to see what it was all about and if we could get any good deals. I obliged just to appease him. We had some ideas in mind and woke up at 3 a.m. to be there when the stores opened.

We didn’t really have a plan other than going to the big stores early and seeing what we could find. I remember how excited he was, saying it was like opening day of lobster season (his favorite hunting season). All I could do was laugh…I was delirious from sleep deprivation.

We learned from our first Black Friday outing that we needed to be prepared. In the ensuing years, I learned to scour the newspaper fliers and find the best prices for the items we had on our shopping list. We figured out that items like electronics and toys are the “hot” items and that if we know exactly what we are going to buy, go to those stores first and be ready to stand in line. We once waited in line for an electronics purchase for several hours. It was a successful venture and we ended up saving a few hundred dollars. Well worth the wait!

Our Black Friday shopping is a well-organized event. We make lists of things that we are considering buying for our families and I scour the Black Friday ads weeks before the big night. There are plenty of websites and apps out there that post Black Friday ads weeks before November’s shopping extravaganza. We know exactly what stores we want to go to and exactly what we are going to purchase.

We could always shop online and avoid all of the lines and chaos that comes with going to the stores that evening. But, to my husband and me, it’s an evening together, alone, that we rarely have. Shopping for our children and our families without having to split up, or hide what we are buying as the other keeps the kids busy, makes it a fun experience. I look forward to his excitement of “the hunt” and having the chance to complete our Christmas shopping early. ✽

» Ads and sales will begin before Black Friday. Register for email updates as well as access to all of the sale fliers before the big day at Blackfriday.com or download their app. Also check out BFAds.net and Dealnews.com.

» If heading out to the stores, plan your evening/ morning. Know what items you are looking for and where the best deal for that item is before you leave home. Use the “Get in and get out” strategy.

» Shop for electronics and popular toys first. These seem to be the items that sell out the quickest.

» Eat a good meal before you leave home. You don’t want to be hungry, tired and standing in long lines. That’s not a good combination!

» Leave the kiddos at home. The crowded stores and long wait times don’t result in happy children.

» Don’t plan on doing anything early the next day. Give yourself some time to sleep when you get home.

forks & spoons in the fridge

By NICOLE IRVING

Halloween candy isn’t just for the kiddos! Combine some of those treats with traditional caramel apples for yummy fall sweetness.

Giggle Tip!

Trust yourDON'Tus...put applescaramel in the freezer harden!to

How to: Make caramel apples as instructed on Brach's caramel bag. Let cool. Then roll apples in (or hand-place) pieces of cut-up Halloween candy of your choice (we used Oreos, Reese's Pieces, Snickers, Kit Kat, candy corn and mini M&M’s). Place in fridge until party or ready to serve. Perfect for the family to make together!

Photo by Giggle Magazine.

forks & spoons

Turkey Day Leftover Treats

By NICOLE GERMANy

Mac N Cheese Balls

INGREDIENTS:

1 box elbow macaroni

Vegetable oil

2 cups (warm) milk, 2 tablespoons milk for mixture

3 tablespoons melted butter

2 ½ cups shredded sharp cheddar

Salt and pepper

2 eggs

3 tablespoons flour

2 cups mozzarella

3 cups breadcrumbs

Dipping sauce:

Mayonnaise

Sriracha

MAkE IT:

Boil water and cook elbow macaroni until tender; drain.

Add melted butter, flour and milk until thick.

Remove pan from heat and add cheeses. Place macaroni in a casserole dish. Pour cheese mixture on top of macaroni and let sit in fridge for 3 hours.

Shape the mac n cheese into balls and freeze overnight.

Beat eggs in a bowl; mix in 2 tablespoons milk and breadcrumbs.

Coat macaroni balls with breadcrumb mixture.

Add oil to pan and fry mac n cheese balls until warm in the middle.

Let cool and enjoy!

*to make a spicy mayo dipping sauce, place a few spoonfuls of mayonnaise in a bowl and add a few squirts of Sriracha hot sauce. Stir mixture well and serve with Mac n cheese balls.

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks, relax with family and have no shame when it comes to overeating. After your relatives have returned home and the pile of dishes has finally been cleared, the last thing on your mind is what to do with the leftovers. Instead of letting those Turkey Day favorites go to waste, add a few more ingredients and whip up a whole new lunch!

Mashed Potato Cakes

INGREDIENTS:

4 cups leftover mashed potatoes

½ cup diced white onions

1 ½ cups shredded pepper jack cheese

1 egg

3 tablespoons flour + ½ cup flour

Vegetable oil

Sour cream

Bacon bits

Salt

MAkE IT: Mix leftover mashed potatoes together

with diced white onions, pepper jack cheese, egg and 3 tablespoons flour. Heat frying pan to medium temperature and add vegetable oil. Mold pancakes by hand and flatten to ½-inch thick. Cover cakes evenly with the remaining ½ cup of flour.

Cook 2-3 cakes in pan for 5-6 minutes or until crisp; add salt. Serve cakes with sour cream and bacon bits.

*If cakes aren’t holding together, add more egg; if they are too wet, add flour.

Turkey Taco Remix

INGREDIENTS:

Turkey slices

Gravy (homemade or canned)

3 cups shredded cheddar cheese

Leftover stuffing

Leftover green beans

Sour cream

Salsa

Flour tortilla

MAkE IT:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Place tortillas on greased pan. Fill tortillas with leftover stuffing, green beans and turkey slices.

Pour gravy over tacos and cover with foil. Bake for 30 minutes.

Add cheese, sour cream and salsa to give those leftovers a tasty Mexican kick.

forks & spoons

Spice Up This Thanksgiving!

By ALE RUSSIAN

It’s turkey time! The great American holiday of gratitude and delicious food is upon us. As the centerpiece of good family fun, how your turkey is cooked is arguably the most important detail. Why not branch out this year and impress your holiday guests? Here are some simple methods of cooking to put a new spin on the main course.

Smoking is a more tender and flavorful option. Use a kettle style grill to slow cook your bird in a fun way!

BAKED

This simple and traditional way of ovenroasting the turkey will yield a delicious result and satisfied tummies.

BRINE FRIED

Soak your bird in saltwater solution for a few hours before roasting and enjoy a more seasoned and moist meat!

BBQ

Cover with herbs and oil inside and out before grilling and you will never be able to eat it any other way!

Deep-fry your bird in peanut oil for a crispier and juicy alternative to the traditional!

By DANA KAMP

So Juicy!

More and more manufacturers are adding natural, botanical and herbal ingredients to their beauty products. One reason for this is the numerous antioxidant properties these extracts contain. Check out these yummy products containing fruit extracts to help nourish, protect and revitalize your hair and skin.

ΠElemis Fruit Active Rejuvenating Mask, $46, TimetoSpa.com. Packed with strawberry and kiwi extracts, this creamy mask restores the glow to dulled skin and acts as a fruity pick-me-up for tired complexions.

 AHAVA Mineral Botanic Hibiscus & Fig Velvet Collection, Velvet Cream Wash $24, Velvet Body Lotion $28, Rich Body Butter $30, Ahavaus.com. These products are powered by AHAVA’s patented Osmoter™ blend of Dead Sea Minerals. Hibiscus smoothes and nourishes skin while the antiinflammatory fig extract moisturizes.

Ž Garnier Fructis Volume Extend Shampoo, $3.99, Mass retailers and grocers. The ultra light formula with natural fruit fibers, papaya

and cucumber extracts strengthens while it thickens hair.

 June Jacobs Cranberry Pomegranate Moisture Mask, $60, JuneJacobs.com. This luxurious masque uses cranberry extract blended with tea, goji berry, pomegranate and grape seed extracts to leave the skin supple and revitalized.

Amarte Wonder Cream®, $97, AmarteSkinCare.com. The advanced Korean formula of this moisturizer provides anti-aging benefits using extracts from caviar, mushroom, nutmeg and grapefruit.

‘ Jane Iredale Golden Shimmer Face and Body Lotion, $32, Shop.janeiredale.com. This

lightweight moisturizer imparts an irresistible golden glow using extracts from apples, green and white teas, grapefruit and orange peels, elderflowers and blackberries.

’ June Jacobs Cranberry Hydrating Toner, $40, JuneJacobs.com. This toner enacts cranberry and jojoba seed extracts to enhance skin’s natural moisture. Tea, goji berry, pomegranate and grape seed extracts leave skin refreshed.

“ June Jacobs Creamy Cranberry Cleanser, $44, JuneJacobs.com. This cleanser moisturizes skin with a burst of cranberry. A powerful blend of tea, goji berry, pomegranate and grape seed extracts protects from environmental toxins.

Photos courtesy of Alison Brod PR and 5W PR. Garnier photo by Giggle

Latte... Beyond the

By NICOLE IRVING AND DANA KAMP

Pumpkin is THE flavor of the fall season. Rich with amazing nutrients such as vitamins A and C, pumpkin can now be found in foods and beauty products to enhance both your inside and outside beauty.

Formulated with antioxidants, including pumpkin serum, that revitalize the complexion.

Toss some pumpkin seeds into your oatmeal, sprinkle them over your salad or bake them and enjoy as a sweet or salty snack.

$30, Gainesville Dermatology.

In addition to Kaolin and vitamin E, this warming mineral mask also includes pumpkin enzymes that gently exfoliate with an amazing scent.

$3.50, The Fresh Market.

High in iron and festive flavor, this couscous combines with red bell pepper, dried onions, garlic, currants and parsley and cooks in just 15 minutes.

9.

&

Enzyme Peel $47, FragranceNet.com. Yam and pumpkin pulp purees in this peel enrich your skin while phytocollagen hydrates and plumps.

This spicy, detoxifying masque contains a powerful pumpkin enzyme that improves skin’s tone and texture.

Formulated with citrus oil, lemon oil and pumpkin extract, this brightening mask brings a healthy glow to tired and dull skin.

Pumpkin puree, Italian plum tomatoes, heavy cream, basil and spices mix to create a warm fall flavor perfect for cool autumn nights.

Formulated with pumpkin to strengthen skin, this all-natural serum helps prevent visible signs of premature aging.

Crispbreads

$4.49, The Fresh Market.

These whole grain crackers are high in protein and fiber, ready to be devoured alone or paired with any complementary dip.

8.

FragranceNet.com. This product nourishes your skin, eliminating the impurities as pumpkin puree and orange pulp fortify your skin and promote resilience.

1. Meaningful Beauty® Glowing Serum by Cindy Crawford $52, MeaningfulBeauty.com.

3. June Jacobs Perfect Pumpkin Enzyme Masque $78, JuneJacobs.com.

Eminence Yam

Pumpkin

Eminence Pumpkin Latte Hydration Masque $53.50,

4. G.M. Collin’s Bio Organique Energizing Mask $35, GMCollin.com.

6. G.M. Collin Bio Organique Treating Serum $52, GMCollin.com.

5. Pumpkin Pasta Sauce $5.99, The Fresh Market.

10. Pereg Israeli Couscous Pearl Pasta & Pumpkin Seeds

11. Revision Skincare Refining Mineral Mask

7. Doctor Kracker Pumpkin Seed Cheddar

2. Pumpkin Seeds $5.99 per pound, The Fresh Market.

Photo by Giggle Magazine.

Finding an Answer Through BRCA Gene Testing

By DEBBIE SORGI

Iwas 33 when I started to think about breast cancer. I had a 3-yearold daughter and a 10-year-old son, and considered myself pretty healthy. I was a runner, I tried to eat right, I didn’t smoke, and would occasionally enjoy cocktails with friends. I was like every other mama I knew – frazzled and tired, but otherwise good.

I came across a documentary on TV one night that rocked my world. It was about a woman who underwent genetic testing for the BRCA mutation after she learned there was a strong history of breast and ovarian cancer in her family. She was only 27 years old and was faced with deciding whether or not she should have both her breasts and ovaries removed. I simply could not fathom having to make that choice, especially at that young age. The story stuck with me and I started wondering about my own family. I was

adopted as a newborn and had no information about my birth mother. I wondered what people did in my situation – how was I to know if this awful disease was in my future, if I knew nothing of my past? And my children – had I somehow put them at a disadvantage because of my lack of a medical history? Certainly there were others in my situation � how had they handled this?

The more I thought about it, the more convinced I became that I wanted to have the testing done. It wasn’t really about me, although I wanted to know as well. For me, it was about my kids. It seemed almost irresponsible to NOT have it done – they deserved to have the knowledge that I had lacked for so long.

I reached out to the Genetic Counseling department at Shands Hospital. I was able to speak to someone there who walked me through the process and explained how it would work. I also contacted my insurance carrier, who informed me that the testing would not be covered because I was not considered “high risk.” This baffled me –how was I to know whether or not I was high risk if I had no idea what my family medical history was? I chose to have the testing done anyway, and was responsible for paying for it out-of-pocket. After all was said and done, it cost us over $4,000.

it

The test was quick and painless. It consisted of me swishing mouthwash around my mouth and spitting it into test tubes. Kind of gross, but surprisingly easy. The hardest part for me was waiting for the results, which took about six weeks. I got the call I had been waiting for late one afternoon – there was no sign of the mutation. The counselor was quick to tell me that this was one gene out of many, and that this was not a guarantee that I would be spared from the disease. This was simply one gene mutation that was not present in my genetic makeup.

When I share my story with friends, many of them are shocked by the cost and surprised that I went through with it. I feel like it was one of the best decisions I have made because it gave me peace of mind and information that I could pass on to my kids. While I can’t go back and put the pieces together about my medical history, I can give them a little bit of theirs. It’s not much, but it’s a start.

Why is there a test for this particular gene mutation?

55 to 65 percent of women who inherit a BRCA1 mutation and around 45 percent of women who inherit a BRCA2 mutation will develop breast cancer by age 70.

39 percent of women who inherit a BRCA1 mutation and 11 to 17 percent of women who inherit a BRCA2 mutation will develop ovarian cancer by age 70.

Source: National Cancer Institute (Cancer.gov)

Kind of gross, but surprisingly easy. The hardest part for me was quick

health

By ALICIA CHAPMAN MAULDIN

When parents tell me their child needs yoga, they erroneously think my classes are quiet, peaceful rooms filled with children silently stretching and breathing. Well…we breathe, we move, we learn and we play…all while doing yoga!

The practice of yoga is over 4,000 years old and is meant to keep the body healthy, aligned, supple and strong. Just as it does for adults, yoga physically benefits kids. It improves strength, flexibility, coordination and balance. It also helps to build self-confidence, cooperation, and compassion with ourselves and those around us.

A wonderful benefit of children practicing yoga is their ability to learn to control their energies and self regulate.

USING YOGA fOR EvERYDAY BENEfITS:

• When your child is upset or agitated, he can calm his mind and body by trying a forward fold, allowing his head to be lower than his heart, or he can try a Child’s pose. Children should also focus on their exhale, and try to empty their lungs completely before inhaling again.

• Does your child have trouble focusing on homework? Ask him to balance on one leg while he looks at a single focal point, or have him take a “brain break” by crossing the mid-line of the body and giving himself a hug. Have him focus on smooth, even inhales and exhales (Take five breaths – breathe in through the nose for five counts and out for five counts).

• Is your child slow and sluggish in the afternoons? It is time to energize! Have him move through the Yoga Sun Salutations, Warrior poses or simply do jumping jacks! Get the blood pumping, focus on deep inhales and send fresh oxygen to the brain.

*Alicia is the owner of Tiny Turtle Yoga and program director for YogaKids. Visit TinyTurtleYoga.com for more information about yoga for kids.

© 2014 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Yoga is everywhere…and you are probably already doing a little yoga and just don’t know it! A recent visit with the eye specialist suggested my 9-year-old son take 10 deep breaths, balance on one foot and do repetitive spinal twists to improve his eye function... all yoga! Working with Parisi Speed School (speed and endurance training for kids), I noticed many of their stretches and body movements are also yoga! Stress management techniques? Yep, yoga! Back issues? That is right, those exercises are often yoga!

By DANA KAMP

PHOTOS By PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHy

When Stacy and Kelley Dyal decided to start a family, they knew they wanted to have a few children. What a wonderful, amazing surprise to find out they were growing their family by five with one pregnancy!

xpecting multiples

After two years of trying to conceive, the Dyals chose to try fertility treatments and were excited to find out Stacy was pregnant. When she was about six weeks along, the ultrasound confirmed they were expecting not one, but five babies. While selective reduction was offered by the fertility specialist, that was not an option for the Dyals and they prepared themselves for a pregnancy and life with all five babies.

Stacy was able to continue working until she was 18 weeks pregnant. She was already measuring full-term (40 weeks) and was put on moderate bed rest. While there were no major complications, Stacy felt that when she went in for her 24-week check-up she wouldn’t be coming home and brought her overnight bag with her. She spent the next five and a half weeks at the hospital on strict bed rest. The doctors did all they could to keep the little ones in the womb for as long as possible.

Try to imagine five newborns.

Here they are!

On November 15, 2012, at 29 weeks and 4 days, the Dyal Quintuplets made their debut. First was Kyndall, then Kamryn, Kayleigh, Kyleigh and Kaleb. They weighed between 2 pounds, 7 ounces and 2 pounds, 14 ounces each. Several of the babies needed help to start breathing and Kyndall was very bruised. It was also discovered that Kamryn had Amniotic Band Syndrome, when an amniotic band wraps around a part of the baby’s body and restricts blood flow. They would all need to stay in the hospital until their bodies were ready for the outside world.

The babies spent two months at Shands Hospital, growing and getting stronger every day. Finally on January 19, Kamryn and Kayleigh were able to come home. Their three siblings joined them on January 21. The quints had grown to between 4 and 5 pounds by the time they were discharged from the hospital.

At home with five babies

We all know bringing home a newborn is challenging on so many levels. Try to imagine five newborns.

The Dyals agreed the first six months were the hardest, when the babies needed the most around-the-clock care. Luckily, their friends, family and church all pitched in to help. There were sign-up sheets for bringing meals to their home and lending a hand. Friends even came to help with the 2 a.m. feedings! There was a fundraiser through Ward’s Supermarket, as well as a diaper drive. The Dyals were overwhelmed by the outpouring of love and support.

By the time the babies turned 1, they didn’t require as much outside help. Many friends and family members still volunteered to help, including Mrs. Dyal (Kelley’s mom) and their Aunt Jean and Uncle Wayne.

Turning 2!

Kyndall, Kamryn, Kayleigh, Kaleb and Kyleigh will turn 2 years old on November 15 and are healthy, happy, active toddlers! This next year will bring talking, singing and potty training, times five! We can’t wait to watch them grow and learn on their incredible journey!

Photos by Patricia Bishop Photography. Professional newborn portrait by Stephanie Knowles of Jaiden Photography. Hospital photo courtesy of Stacy Dyal.

A day in the life...

8:30 a.m.: Quints wake up! Time for diaper changes, new outfits and breakfast. Breakfast usually consists of waffles or pancakes (sans syrup) and half a banana and yogurt. Another favorite option is grits and eggs.

9:30 a.m.: Play time! Indoor fun with toys, books and role-play activity sets (they love to cook up yummy treats in their play kitchen). A favorite snack of animal crackers is a mid-morning treat!

Noon/12:30 p.m.: Time for lunch! The quints love pb&j sandwiches, turkey hotdogs or macaroni and cheese. They always have some kind of fruit with lunch; their current favorite is apple slices.

2:00 p.m.: Nap/Rest time. They have now moved to one nap per day, and even if they don’t sleep, they have to stay in their cribs and rest. They love to watch “Baby Einstein” or “Blue’s Clues” videos as they settle down.

4:30 p.m.: Little ones are up from their naps and ready to play!

5:00 p.m.: Mrs. Dyal (Kelley’s mom) comes over to help with the quints while Stacy cooks dinner.

5:30 p.m.: Dinner time! Spaghetti or tortellini is always a hit, as are steak and sweet potatoes. They also can’t get enough of green spinach pasta with parmesan cheese. When they venture out to a restaurant, the quints love cheese pizza from Piesanos.

6:00 p.m.: Daddy is home! The kiddos get so excited when Kelley arrives home from work. They can’t wait to ride around their property and look for deer and turkeys. This is also a cooler time of day for outside yard time.

7:30 p.m.: Bath time! While they used to be able to bathe together, now that would equal a flooded bathroom. Single or double baths it is!

8:30 p.m.: Bedtime snack (usually a sugar-free yogurt or animal crackers).

9:00 p.m.: Time for bed! They each sleep in their own crib and have their favorite blankie to soothe them to sleep. NightNight, little ones!

Top: The quints play a game of peek-a-boo on Mom and Dad's bed.

Middle: Kyleigh and Kayleigh play in the grass while Kyndall enjoys a birthday cupcake for turning 2!

Bottom: Wrangling five toddlers for a photo produces interesting results!

Picture your child’s perfect, healthy smile!

We specialize in orthodontics for children, teens and adults utilizing state-of-the-art technology to create healthy, beautiful smiles that will last a lifetime.

Dr. Reid W. Montini attended Florida State University for his undergraduate studies, received his dental degree from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency in orthodontics at the University of Florida. Dr. Montini is an active member of numerous professional organizations and is dedicated to staying current with the latest advances in orthodontic treatment and technology.

Reid W. Montini

DMD, MS, PA

Dear Helen...

Queries from the Curious

By HELEN KORNBLUM

Q: My husband wants me to get rid of dishes and glassware that were passed down to me from family members, but that we rarely, if ever, use. It would break my heart to let them go. What should we do?

A: Let’s not break any hearts – or dishes – yet. If the dishes and glassware are too special for everyday use, why not display a few pieces and make a point of using them on special occasions? Take photos of the sets to keep in a memorabilia file, with notes about their provenance, and send these to relatives who might want the sets.

If nobody claims them and you don’t have storage space, maybe it’s time for an honest reckoning. Keeping household goods that you don’t use may honor the past but it crowds the present and blocks the future. Donating them can positively affect the future of a family in

need. Putting material things back into the cycle of use has its virtues, perhaps enough to soothe even your tender heart.

Q: Our house is overflowing with books. What would you suggest for organizing books so that they are accessible to all our children, yet have a definite space to keep them in good condition?

A: What a wonderful organizing problem: lots of books! Books for toddlers can be stored upright in rectangular plastic dishpans on bottom shelves of just about any furniture. A dishpan is portable and if the toddler dumps everything out, cleanup isn’t too daunting. The limited space allows the pre-reader to flip through the books to find a favorite. Having a few book dishpans around the house makes reading always an option for the next activity.

Elementary school kiddos like having books in their rooms, so low horizontal bookshelves are suited to their needs. Ask them for their organizing help. You may be surprised to hear that they like grouping by color, subject or size. These preferences may seem illogical but don’t argue if it makes sense to them.

Teens are ready for vertical bookcases, organized by subject matter – school, sci-fi, adventure, hobbies…however the collection subdivides.

Keep the book selections updated. Pull your sentimental favorites off the shelves and pass them down the line as your younger children become developmentally ready for new reading challenges. Your children will tell you which books are keepers forever.

Q:We have a ton of family photos on our phones, cameras and posted on social media. How should we organize them so they are all together and accessible?

A: Thanks to our digital devices, we’re drowning in photos that document our special occasions as well as our daily silliness. It’s time to consolidate! The right way to organize photos depends on your intuition about where you would look to retrieve them.

Most of the current digital third party storage systems (like iCloud) or management software (like Picasa) offer filing systems based on date, event and subject. You have to pick the folder tabs that work for you. For example, you might create a folder for Vacations and then have sub-folders using dates for each vacation you have documented.

You can keep photo files on your computer if you have enough disk space. Make frequent back-ups using an external hard drive, CDs or DVDs. Note that online storage providers give at least five gigabytes of storage space (and sometimes more) for free.

Toss the bad photos, please. For those that earn the right to stay, save the originals in case you want to make edits for a special use. ✽

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

Ask Amy...

Q:I want to sell my house, but I have a couple of kids, and a pet. How in the world do I do showings?

A:Where there is a will there is a way! Your REALTOR© can include instructions in the listing that you need up to 24 hours notice to schedule a showing, but the more flexible you can be, the better. Hard to keep your house “showing ready?” After the kids are in bed, take 15 minutes and get the dinner dishes cleaned up and your counters spotless. In the morning, take 5 minutes to make the beds, and throw the dirty clothes into a hamper. Keep empty baskets handy to toss the kids toys and books into, then stuff the baskets into a closet as you walk out the door. Still not sure where to start? Call me today!

Amy Hogue is a REALTOR® with Coldwell Banker

M.M. Parrish Realtors, specializing in residential sales and first time homebuyers. She lives in Southwest Gainesville with her husband and two children.

Do you have a question for Amy? Or looking for a more indepth answer to the question? Visit www.AmyHogue.com

happy home

Make Your Own Mason Jar Gifts

By NICOLE IRVING

Tea Time Sew Thoughtful Fur the Cat Lover Style Me Pretty How Does

Created with the tea connoisseur in mind, our “tea for two” mason jar has all the treats for someone to share a warm cup of tea with a friend, grandma or while enjoying a good book.

our mason jar was made with a natural honey stick twirler, tea diffuser and specialty tea bags.

Tips:

• use a variety of tea bags for an eclectic collection.

• add a fresh lemon or a small bottle of honey to complete the jar. (Make sure to give it in a timely manner.)

• pair with their favorite book or box of homemade cookies.

• can also be given as a get-well gift!

our sewing jar is full of all the necessities for that budding seamstress, designer or even creative crafters.

Complete with a measuring tape, needles, buttons, pins and spools of thread, our mason jar is ready to go. Complete with a pincushion top!

Tips:

• pincushion top was found in a pack of two at hobby lobby for $4.99.

• use colorful and fun pins for the top of the jar.

• As with all pins/sharp objects, keep out of reach of children.

• Add small knitting needles and a package of yarn for a mix of mediums.

For the cat enthusiast, our mason jar is filled with a collection of goodies “purrfect” for your feline friend.

we added a collar, cat treats, a new play toy and string. we personalized it with a small photo of the recipient’s pet!

Tips:

• the photo frame was found in the jewelrymaking section of hobby Lobby.

• Make sure to measure the opening of your jar so that all the goodies will fit.

• this is a great gift for the new pet owner.

• you can make it specific for any animal!

• A homemade coupon for free pet-sitting is a great addition.

what girl doesn’t love to be pampered? our “home pedi” mason jar screams “spa day with friends.”

with a bright colored polish, pedicure tools and a plethora of cotton balls, this mason jar will be a hit with your girlfriends, sisters, tweens and teens alike.

Tips:

• the travel section at your local store is a perfect spot to find smaller bottles of products.

• you can also fill the jar with only nail polishes for a colorful pick-me-up.

• Make sure all jars with polish remover or any other chemicals are kept away from children and heat.

• add some favorite fingernail stickers for a fun manicure/pedicure option.

once the winter weather passes, it will be time for spring flowers. our “garden collection” mason jar will brighten any gardener’s day!

we chose gardening gloves, a small terracotta pot and a variety of vegetable seed packs for our jar. for added flair, we sprinkled sunflower seeds at the bottom.

Tips:

• use flower herbs or seeds instead of vegetable seeds.

• Spray paint a small flowerpot in a bright color.

• add a gift card to the local nursery or gardening center.

• Include a recipe card for one of your favorite recipes using the ingredients she will be growing.

Have you and your kids made any fun homemade gifts? We'd love to hear about it! Send a photo and short description of your family project to dana@irvingpublications.com and you might just see your family on our facebook page!

Photo by Giggle Magazine.

happy home our space

For dessert, handsome cookies and cake pops dressed in theme, perfect for petite palates, sit atop mini bales of hay. (hobby Lobby, $4.99)

A special space is decorated for welcoming thankful thoughts. Kids can decorate their "placemat" and the kraft paper makes for easy cleanup after dinner!

KIDS' TABLEMaking the more fun!

As your little ones sit down to the table to celebrate all they have to be thankful for, inspire them to play, create and share.

Our simple Thanksgiving kids' table showcases kraft paper with painted mini terracotta pots filled with crayons and Legos. This calls for creativity and using those busy little hands while they wait for dinner to be served!

Cake pops and cookies by Dream Day Cakes

Styled by Giggle Magazine

Photos by Giggle Magazine.

After Homeschool learn ho

By TARA GRIffIN

Navigating the waters of college admission is tricky for everybody. For those of us homeschooling, we act as parents, teachers, principals and guidance counselors too. With our unique learning timelines, we're often looking at non-traditional college applications. Add dual enrollment into the mix and you've got a lot of options to figure out. I was curious about the regulations for homeschoolers applying to a Florida college.

Admission to a state university in Florida is based on minimums set by the Florida Board of Governor Regulations, but each school handles admission differently. The homeschool application policies also vary.

Here is a summary of the homeschool policies for schools near and dear to us.

University of Florida

webrequests@admissions.ufl.edu

(352) 392-1365

• Submit scores from either the SAT or ACT with Writing.

• Submit an official transcript of courses attempted, course grades and credit earned OR provide evidence of mastery or learning outcomes through means other than, or in addition to, a transcript (i.e. SAT Subject tests, Florida Virtual School courses, community college or university courses).

• Validate secondary learning outcomes in English, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies and a foreign language.

From the UF website: "The Office of Admissions employs a comprehensive review process that evaluates both academic and non-academic criteria when selecting students for admission. While admission is selective, it is important to remember that each applicant is reviewed thoroughly."

For more information, visit admissions.ufl.edu.

Santa Fe College

Dual Enrollment Program

brenda.evans@sfcollege.edu

(352) 395-5490

Homeschool Dual Enrollment

Requirements:

• Be an Alachua County registered homeschooler in 11th or 12th grade.

• Obtain an application from the High School Dual Enrollment office.

• Complete the Postsecondary Education Readiness Test (PERT).

• Complete SAT Writing or ACT with Writing.

• Submit the Dual Enrollment application and PERT, ACT or SAT scores.

From the Santa Fe website: "The admissions policy looks at a student's needs and abilities and their potential for success on a college campus. Once a homeschool student is accepted, a packet will be sent containing a Dual Enrollment agreement and a form to register "in name only" at an Alachua County public school. This enables homeschool students to be loaned textbooks free of charge. Homeschool students not registering "in name only" with an Alachua County public school will have tuition waived per Florida Statute but will be responsible for instructional materials and textbooks."

For more information, go to sfcollege.edu/admissions.

Additional Contact Info:

University of Central Florida admission@ucf.edu

(407) 823-3000

Florida State University

admissions@admin.fsu.edu

(850) 644-6200

Florida Atlantic University (561) 297-3040

admissions@fau.edu

Florida Gulf Coast University (888) 889-1095

admissions@fgcu.edu

Florida International University (305) 348-2363

admiss@fiu.edu

Florida A&M University (866) 642-1198

Florida Polytechnic University (863) 583-9050

info@floridapolytechnic.org

New College of Florida (941) 487-5000 admissions@ncf.edu

University of West Florida (800) 263-1074

admissions@uwf.edu

University of North Florida (904) 620-1000 admissions@unf.edu

University of South Florida (813) 974-3350 admissions@usf.edu

Looking at an Ivy? Here's an excellent resource for homeschoolers applying to Ivy League schools: Homeschoolsuccess.com/ivy-league-homeschool-admissions/

Study Strategies For Every Grade Level

By LISA KATZ

Whether he is studying for a chapter test, midterm exam or even the SAT or ACT, there are a few important tips to keep in mind. Of course it helps to be as prepared as possible. Cramming in all of the information the night before typically is not the best course of action. Here are several helpful tips and study strategies to share with your children that will reduce their anxiety and increase success.

➜ FOR ELEMENTARY SCHOOL STUDENTS:

• Set up your study area in a quiet space with few distractions.

• Plan a study schedule.

• Break studying into manageable chunks of time and information.

• Be flexible with ways of learning different material.

• Read together with parents or siblings.

➜ FOR MIDDLE SCHOOL STUDENTS:

• Outline a study plan. Divide information into digestible amounts.

• Have memory refreshers. Go back to the beginning of your notes or textbook and review carefully.

• Use flash cards. This will help in memorizing the basic test information.

• Rewrite notes from class.

• Partner up. Peers can offer different perspectives or interpretations of the lesson or have different notes.

• Reread. Study in stages. Divide the material into three categories: what you’re confident with, what needs more review and what you’re not comfortable with yet.

• Hold a rapid-fire study session with a friend.

➜ FOR HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS:

• Get creative. Don’t just read the material; act it out, create a rap or draw a picture that answers the question.

• Develop a study schedule. This will reduce the likelihood of late-night cramming.

• Use visual clues to boost memorization skills.

• Study in short spurts.

• Use your senses. Read it, write it and say it.

• “Teach” the information to a friend and have him “teach” you the next chapter/section.

Test Day Tips to Share with Your Child

Look over all multiple-choice answers before picking one.

Start the day well-rested.

Eat a healthy breakfast (no PopTarts, please).

Make sure to bring along any supplies you will need.

Dress comfortably and use the bathroom beforehand.

Take deep breaths and try to relax your mind.

Take note of the time and pace yourself throughout the test. Avoid spending too much time on any one question.

Read the instructions and questions carefully. This prevents careless mistakes.

Stay as focused as possible on each question and test section. Don’t think about what is next.

Underline, circle or highlight key words and concepts as you read. Don't spend time rewriting your answers or worrying about neatness.

If there is time, read over each of your answers before turning in your test.

Regardless of the child’s age, parents can cultivate their child’s study habits as well as his test-taking strategies. Developing a sound routine to tackle both daily homework assignments as well as tests is one of the key ways that your child can excel in school. Being consistent will also improve your child’s confidence. Encourage a good night’s sleep, using a quiet study area (without cellphones, tablets and televisions) and having a positive attitude. That goes for parents too! Even if you are nervous about your child’s upcoming test, try to keep it to yourself. It’s beneficial to provide as much support and encouragement as possible.

The 6 Secrets To Your Son’s Success In School

By DR. EDMOND

I was a principal and these words were spoken in anguish and anger by Chad, a 12-year-old student sent to my office for incomplete work. He reflected a profound problem that I could no longer ignore. I had seen too many boys who did not succeed in school. I knew he was not stupid, and his parents saw him as a smart, if unfocused, child. But our opinions no longer mattered. His experience in school had convinced him otherwise. He dropped out a few years later and I was saddened, but not surprised.

Your own son may not become a drop-out, but if he is like many boys I know, he dislikes school, does not apply himself to the fullest and is willing to let the girls in his class achieve more. Statistics show that this leads to boys who are increasingly unprepared for a world in which high levels of education and social-emotional intelligence are required. Without even knowing it, many of our sons are falling behind.

If we change how we approach their learning, we can help these boys be more successful, productive and happier¬without disadvantaging girls. More importantly, I have identified six “secrets” parents can use to profoundly affect a boy’s learning success:

1He Learns Where the Action Is. Neuroscience has confirmed that boys develop more brain-wiring for movement than girls at early ages. This is why they love to move, fidget in class and want to be wherever there is action. It also explains why they can sit still for so long playing video games: Those games are saturated with movement!

2He Learns In the Game.

Boys have profound learning experiences within the context of games because they receive a shot of testosterone when they set goals and achieve them. If they see learning as something they can compete and “win” at, they achieve higher. However, if they don’t think they can win in school because they aren’t smart enough, they will often refuse to play the game.

3He Learns With Humor. Boys love “funny” things. They often can veer into inappropriate or crude topics, but humor is an important tool for boys’ learning. It helps them feel comfortable with new concepts, engage in teamwork and take on new challenges. It is therefore a very effective way for adults to leverage boys’ interest and commitment to learning.

4He Learns Through Challenge.

In their desire to release testosterone by winning, boys are drawn to challenge. It helps them learn because through challenge they discover things about themselves and their environment. When parents and teachers present challenges, they can improve the motivation and resilience of boys faced with difficult learning tasks.

5He Learns By Mastery.

Success for any boy ultimately comes when he takes ownership for his own learning. He longs for mastery and will work very hard to achieve it if he sees the pathway to attain it and is allowed to control the way he pursues it. When boys make decisions about attaining mastery in school learning, however, their brains have evolved to want to know its usefulness. And that’s why the final secret is so critical…

6He Learns For Meaning.

“Why do we have to learn this?” is more than a way for a lazy boy to avoid doing work. It is essential for him to understand the importance and meaning of the task at hand and where he fits into it. Boys long to commit themselves to “heroic” tasks if they see that their efforts can make a difference. We have found that when a parent helps a boy to do this, his success can be amazing! ✽

*If you aren’t sure where to start, take the quiz on helpingboyslearn.com and check out the Parent Community on the site. Together, we can help every boy reach his potential as a learner!

J. DIXON

“Let's face it; I'm stupid. You know it, I know it, and my parents know it!"

➜ Dr. Edmond J. Dixon is a human development specialist with 30-plus years of experience as a teacher, administrator, researcher, author – and parent of boys! Reprinted with permission.

Kick Bullying to the Curb

By NICOLE GERMANy

Sometimes it isn’t easy telling the bullies to back off, which is why parents, schools and communities are coming together and standing up to bullying. In 2006, October was declared National Bullying Prevention month, and since then the campaign to raise awareness has expanded to involve hundreds of schools and community members. Many participants around the country will wear orange shirts, hats or ribbons on October 22 as a sign of unity against bullying.

According to the National Education Association, 160,000 students stay home from school every day due to bullying, and another two-thirds of students who are targets of harassment later become bullies themselves.

The American Academy of Pediatrics urges parents to get involved by discussing the issue with their children and being proactive when it comes to interacting with school guidance counselors and administrators on the issue.

The Cartoon Network’s Stop Bullying: Speak Up campaign (StopBullyingSpeakUp.com) is underway as the network is gathering one million user-generated video submissions of people around the world declaring the words “I speak up.” The Cartoon Network will air some of these videos on its television channel, its sister station Boomerang and its digital platforms throughout the month of October.

Organizations Making a Difference...

The Bully Project (Thebullyproject.com) – This social action campaign, inspired by the award-winning film, “Bully,” sparked a national movement to stop bullying.

It Gets Better Project (Itgetsbetter.org) – In 2010, syndicated columnist and author Dan Savage created a YouTube video to inspire hope for young people facing harassment, inspiring more than 50,000 user-created videos viewed more than 50 million times.

The Youth Alliance (Theyouthalliance.com) – This organization hosts interactive assemblies that help address bullying with activities, community nights and workshops.

PACER’s National Bullying Prevention Center (Pacer.org/bullying) – This “parents helping parents” organization is spreading the message of their campaign, “The End of Bullying Begins with Me,” through school, community and online events.

Dr. Dan and Bli Dugi are authors of a book series called “The Principle Gang,” a collection of six books intended to help parents better convey messages, like the harms of bullying, through text and pictures. They created the No Bullies Allowed campaign to better assist conversation in elementary schools concerning bullying.

The other side of bullying is when your child is the culprit behind the harsh words and behavior. While bullying can begin for a number of reasons, dealing with a child that is threatening others isn’t easy.

➜ Parents should talk to their child to better understand why the behavior demonstrated is threatening to others.

➜ Visit your child’s doctor for a full check-up and discussion. The Parent Advocacy Coalition for Educational Rights notes that sometimes a child’s behavior can be due to a disability causing him to act in ways that are mistaken for bullying.

➜ Ask for help. Reach out to teachers, doctors or friends who have been through a similar situation to decide the best possible way to mediate the situation.

➜ Understand that your child won’t change overnight. If a child is bullying others, it may take some time for him to understand why what he is doing is wrong.

Self-Esteem and Confidence Building

Brent Cannon, media and marketing specialist for PRO Martial Arts Gainesville, notes that children often deal with self-esteem and character issues when subjected to less-than-kind words in the hallways and on the playground. It’s essential for children to participate in confidence-building activities as an outlet to release whatever issues they are fighting. Once confidence is boosted, it’s easier for kids to identify bullies and put a stop to harassment. PRO Martial Arts Gainesville attempts to ensure that students can stand up to bullies with their ARMOR® Bullying and Predator Prevention Program. This 12-week program is designed to educate children on how to carry themselves with confidence, how to set and respect personal boundaries and how to be assertive when seeking help. For more information, visit Promartialarts. com/gainesville/armor.

A curriculum that makes a difference!

You want your children to enjoy days filled with learning and fun, that build critical skills to help prepare them for school.

Our proprietary Life Essentials® curriculum does just that. Kiddie Academy maintains the highest standards of quality preschool education with caring teachers who help shape our students, while reinforcing what’s important to you: letting your child explore, discover and grow. Come see how Kiddie Academy helps set the right educational foundation for your child and encourages lifelong learning.

• Developmentally Appropriate for your child

• Aligns with Preschool Core Standards

• Meets and exceeds Preschool State Standard

• Secure webcam ensures every childʼs safety

• Music & More builds cognitive and creative skills

• Personalized learning with individualized attention

• Activities that fit your childʼs interests and abilities

• Academy LinkTM Parent Communications Portal

Kiddie Academy® of Gainesville

352.264.7724

6476 Southwest 75th Street • Gainesville, FL 32608

kiddieacademy.com/gainesville

Open Monday - Friday 6:30 a.m. - 6:30 p.m.

HEALTH & FITNESS

CHARACTER EDUCATION

Schedule a tour and enroll for the school year now.

That’s what Life Essentials® is all about.

If it’s important to you and your child, it’s important to us.

conception2college

 EXPECTING

Staying Fit and Strong During Your Pregnancy

 INFANT | 0-1

Picking Favorites: When Your Child Prefers One Parent Over the Other

 TODDLER | 2-3

Calming the Morning Mood Swings

 EARLY YEARS | 4-5

Surviving Dining Out With the Kids...One Bite at a Time!

 KIDS | 6-7

Let's Talk About the Birds and the Bees

 TWEENS | 8-12

Tips for Your Tween's First Dance

 TEENS | 13-18

Raising a Confident Teen

Photo by Patricia Bishop Photography

Staying Fit and Strong During Your Pregnancy

By SALLy SPOONER, BA, NASM-CPT, IyCA

A pregnant body can do incredible things. Don’t underestimate your ability to carry on life as usual, even as your bump grows. Unless advised by your physician or midwife, you can continue to exercise throughout your pregnancy. Using common workout gear (a stability ball, dumbbells and a resistance band), local mom-to-be, Kourtney, demonstrates a complete, full-body pregnancy workout. Clear a space in the living room, get your playlist ready and feel yourself getting stronger with each rep!

1

1. Stand with feet shoulder width apart and dumbbells at your side.

2. Push hips back, sitting down into the squat.

3. Keep chest up and hips back.

4. Return to standing position and repeat.

2

1. Position the band over your arms.

2. Start with hands just outside your chest with palms down.

3. Press both arms straight out from chest, bringing thumbs together in front of you.

4. Complete 10 reps fast, 10 reps slow, then 10 reps fast.

Always consult your physician/midwife before beginning any exercise plan.

3

1. Stand with feet wider than shoulder width apart and feet and knees slightly angled out to the sides.

2. Come up onto the balls of your feet with heels off the ground.

3. Sit back into the hips and squat down letting the knees follow in line with the feet, heels still off the ground.

4. Stand back up, staying on the balls of your feet the whole time, and repeat.

➜ Sally Spooner is a Certified Personal Trainer at Sweat Life fitness. She specializes in Weight Loss, High-Intensity Strength Training, Group Training and fitness Competitions.

Dumbbell SquatS

Cable/banD CheSt PreSS

WiDe Dumbbell SquatS

4

banD CurlS to roWS

1. Hold handles with palms up and arms extended out from the chest.

2. Keeping the elbow at chest height and out away from the body perform a bicep curl on top of the shoulders.

3. After taking arms back out to the starting position, turn palms to face each other.

4. Pull back and squeeze shoulder blades together in a rowing motion.

5. Alternate between curls and rows, keeping arms out at chest height.

5Stability ball leg CurlS

1. Lie on back with legs out straight and heels on the stability ball.

2. Squeeze glutes and elevate your hips.

3. Using your hamstrings, pull the stability ball in under your body while keeping your hips up.

4. Roll the ball back out and repeat, keeping the hips up for the duration of the exercise.

6Plank PunCheS

1. Position body face down on elbow and toes.

2. Make sure elbows are directly below the shoulders and heels are farther back than toes.

3. Hips should be at shoulder height or slightly above.

4. Perform alternating punches straight out ahead of yourself, bringing your bicep close to the ear each time.

pregnancy worKout tips

• Do not do any exercise lying down with weights over your head (i.e. dumbbell or barbell bench press).

• Do not perform very explosive plyometric movements (i.e. box jumps for speed).

• Be cautious with over-the-head exercises like lateral pull-downs and shoulder presses that put you in a stretched position.

• Complete very controlled movements with weight you can control.

• Do not let your body overheat.

• If possible, wear a heart rate monitor watch and band.

• Work the entire body!

• It’s okay to work the core! It is actually very beneficial!

• Listen to your body and stop if something becomes uncomfortable.

Picking Favorites: When Your Child Prefers One Parent Over the Other

By ALEXIS KING

It’s a common scene. You’re in the middle of a busy moment when you hear your little one crying. Concerned, you rush over to him, only to hear “No! I want (insert whomever he replaced you with here)” and you’re left standing shocked and a bit heartbroken.

According to a poll by Parenting.com, 90 percent of families have experienced this kind of preferential treatment. Experts believe this preference for one parent or caregiver is a toddler’s way of showing independence. Even though it may seem counterproductive to assert independence by showing dependence on a caregiver, the focus is on the child’s ability to make decisions. When he constantly demands one parent in certain situations he is showing you he is able to make his own choices, no matter how small they might be.

Thankfully this phase is temporary and your child will eventually learn more effective ways to assert his independence. During this time it is important to remember not to take any of this too personally. It can be hard to feel second best to someone you hold as #1, but remember what is important here – the child. When you feel rejected or hurt, remind yourself that this is just another stage in your child’s development, not a reflection of your parenting skills!

When you are the preferred parent:

1. SHARE. Continue to divide the parenting responsibilities. It is okay for your child to not always have his way.

2. BE UNSEEN. Take time for yourself when your partner is feeling rejected. If you’re not there your child will have to rely on the other parent for awhile.

3. COMMUNICATE. Be sure this phase doesn’t cause lasting damage to your relationship with your spouse. Stay supportive and respectful of his or her feelings.

Transitional Objects

Sometimes your child isn’t overly attached to you or your partner – but rather to an object. While it may seem strange or hard for adults to comprehend, many young children form strong bonds with a favorite doll, blanket or toy. This attachment is the strongest around the ages of 1 and

When you are the underdog:

1. BE PLAYFUL. Make an extra effort to get involved with your child’s playtime. Seeing you doing a fun activity may make him forget you were “second best” minutes before.

2. GET SUPPORT. If you’re feeling down, reach out to your family members or friends to talk about what’s going on with your child. Sometimes it just feels nice to have a “support group” that understands what you are going through.

3. STAY POSITIVE. At this age kids are always playing favorites. Stay calm and remember that the odds will eventually turn back in your favor. ✽

2, but could occur anytime during toddlerhood. This object gives the child a sense of security as he explores his world and transitions through phases. This is why they are often referred to as “transitional objects.” This phase is nothing to worry about and will become less intense with age. Set clear

limits on where the toy is allowed and how long it can go between cleanings. Make sure you have a duplicate or second favorite in case the dog decides to play tug-of-war with the beloved toy.

Calming Those Morning Mood Swings

By CINDy VANCE-STARNIERI

I understand what has probably happened prior to school. Your Lil’ Miss Sunshine woke to a house filled with the smell of burnt toast. Your son couldn’t find his homework and your middle child argued with you over her clothing choices. You rushed out of the house, quickly kissing the dog and patting your husband on the head. After dropping the eldest two at their schools, you have finally arrived at mine. I am eagerly waiting to welcome your little one but she announces that she is never, ever going to school. Here is where it gets tricky.

Parents usually worry when their child is having a rushed, upset or moody morning. They will coddle and create a nurturing departure/separation scenario. The child clings, holding on tighter and anxiety begins to build. Next thing you know, Mommy is hanging out, doing a puzzle and preparing snacks for all 18 children.

I, on the other hand, go into my super savvy “Save the Day” teacher mode. I ask Mommy to say a quick goodbye with a hug and kiss. Add a kiss in the palm of your little one’s hand, squeezing her tiny fingers around it, to hold it all day (we call it a Kissing Hand after the book, “The Kissing Hand” by Audrey Penn). Just as Mommy exits, a quick diversion is the key. A bravery cape, if needed. I’ll sweep that little mood maker into a super hero in the blink of an eye! Off we go, to the sandbox, the slides, or indoors to the play dough table where we can pound out our morning madness. Your child has now forgotten about her grumpy mood and might even cry when you pick her up because she doesn’t want to leave!

Your child may experience emotional meltdowns, in short, because she is learning to communicate and she is growing in self-control. Sometimes frustration must be expressed. It could be over sharing a toy, not wanting to do something or go

somewhere, or not being able to complete a project or a puzzle the way her sibling did. Remind your child that you know this task is tough, but she’ll get through it. When she succeeds, praise, high-fives or a thumbs-up is in order.

If fatigue is an issue, make sure your child rests (I call it “down time”), even if she won’t nap. Set the scene for her: a dark room, cool air, a blanket, soft music, no talking, etc. When she achieves an acceptable “quiet time,” give a healthy snack and a sticker for great behavior.

Mood swings come in all kinds of displays from stubbornness to crying to tantrums. This is a normal stage in the life of a toddler. You are not alone and, as you’ve heard, this too will pass.

I suggest you get personal. When things are not so easy with your little one, get down on your knees, shoulder-to-shoulder, eye-toeye and tell your little mood swinger that you are in this together and you’re both going to be okay! ✽

Through the years, I’ve helped parents with a few tips for getting preventing morning meltdowns.

• An earlier bedtime (especially if your child wakes grumpy, upset or crying)

• Soothing music while driving to school

• Warm baths the night before

• Lots of one-on-one time with no distractions

• Special reading time with her favorite books as often as possible

• A favorite cuddly toy for added comfort

As a mother, a grandmother and a teacher of young children, I am all too familiar with the early morning “mood swing” dance.

Surviving Dining Out With the Kids...One Bite at a Time!

By ALLEN HAyNES

Whether you have one child or five, going to a restaurant is probably not only a rarity, it’s an adventure in patience dependent on “Kids Eat Free” days and how “family-friendly” the eatery is. For those times you do venture out for a family meal, your little one’s behavior during down time is often a concern. Below are several tips for teaching your child the proper manners required to eat out as a family.

The art of distraction – pre food order and waiting for the food to arrive

The best family-friendly restaurants have turned their children’s menus into games or coloring books. One way to be ahead of the curve is to not plan on this ready-made entertainment.

Bring your own crayons and coloring books to keep your child busy during the wait between sitting down and when the food actually arrives. You can even turn this into a game. All family members must complete a picture before the food arrives. You can designate a part of your fridge as the restaurant “gallery.” Every time you go out to dinner, everyone works to complete a new masterpiece for the gallery.

Another option to keep your child happy in his seat is to bring his favorite non-sound-making toy, stuffed animal or action figure (preferably one without projectiles). Have him create an adventure storyline with the items on the table.

Staying seated and waiting patiently for dinner to begin is a difficult task for curious kiddos. Practice it each time your family goes out to eat, but don’t be afraid to take a break and walk around outside if the wait is longer than expected. A change of scenery is a magical thing. Ask your child to pick three favorite things he sees outside, so he can share them with everyone when you take him back to the table. Hopefully dinner will be waiting when you reenter the restaurant.

Ordering for himself – practicing at home

Let your child order his dinner. This gives him a great lesson in social skills and independence. Show him the menu as soon as you are seated and help him choose his meal before he starts playing tic-tac-toe. This way he is ready to order when the waiter comes to the table.

The best way to prepare him is to have mock restaurant scenes at your own dinner table. We’re not suggesting you create a menu and let him pick from a bunch of items (although that could be fun to do for a family night every once in awhile); what we’re suggesting is letting him “order” at home by treating it like it’s a restaurant setting.

Here’s some sample dialogue: “What would you like to drink, Sir? We have water, juice or milk.” “Milk, please.”

Practicing at home is important because he learns that good behavior is expected at any dinner table, and especially at an occasion like going out to eat.

Eating politely – preventing dislike meltdowns

Discuss rules beforehand and remind him as dinner is served. Whether your family rule is that everything on the plate must be tried, all vegetables must be eaten first

Put the whole family’s orders in together, rather than the children’s first. Hopefully this means everyone will be eating (quietly) at the same time.

or a clean plate = dessert, make sure your child knows ahead of time that what goes at home, goes at a restaurant.

It’s okay to leave – sometimes it has to happen

Even the best plans can turn to chaos when it involves 5-year-olds and food. If things aren’t looking good, give him a warning. If the misbehavior continues, don’t be afraid to end the dinner abruptly by asking for to-go boxes and heading home to eat. ✽

Family-Friendly Waiting Time Activities

• Coloring books and crayons

• Dolls/action figures that don’t make sounds

• Picture books

• Legos or small building toys

• Stickers and sticker books

• Play-doh and a few cookie cutters

• iPad and headphones

Giggle Tip!

Let’s Talk About the Birds and the Bees

By OLIVIA K. PITKETHLy, MA, LMHC

Are you ready for “the talk?” Around age 6, children start becoming more aware of their bodies and others’ bodies as well. School-aged children become more curious, less concrete and more reflective. Be ready when they start asking questions by keeping these basic tips in mind:

u Take into consideration the age and maturity of your child. Every child is different. Your first-born may have had the emotional maturity to hear the details at age 7, but your second-born may not. Some children will wonder out loud about body functions and issues and some will ask more specific questions, such as how a baby is made. Be honest and speak in generic terms when possible. This will allow the conversation to move forward.

u Explore exactly what she is asking

you If you suspect the questions go beyond a simple definition, find out what she has heard. You can respond with, “I will answer all of your questions, but first I’d like for you to tell me what you know.” Identify body parts by their official names, not the cutesy ones we are prone to use!

u Pick up on cues from your child. For instance, when your daughter says, “I’m

different from the boys in my class,” ask her what she means by that and take the opportunity to discuss further differences if you feel she is ready. If you see her body is changing early, then you may have to approach the subject before she does.

u Find a teachable moment. The doctor’s office, the car ride to school, even when she is stalling before bedtime. Observe your child’s play. Is he making his action figures kiss? Is she undressing her dolls? Recognize their behaviors. Tell them that it’s absolutely normal to be curious about their bodies and relationships.

Want to know more?

u Find out why she is asking. Perhaps one of her friends said something or asked to play “doctor.” It’s also a good time to check in to see if any inappropriate behavior is going on. Whatever the reason, do not judge or shame your child. You want to be the safe place for your child to go when she has questions. If you listen now with an open mind, she will continue to approach you into her teenage and young adult years. You are laying the groundwork for more meaningful opportunities to discuss safe and healthy relationships as your child gets older. ✽

"It's NOT the Stork!" by Robie H. Harris

Young children are especially curious about their bodies, and some of their questions are difficult for parents to answer. Harris spoke with parents, teachers, librarians, nurses, doctors, social workers, psychologists, scientists and clergy to make sure all of the material in this book is comfortable, reassuring, age-appropriate and scientifically accurate.

“I will answer all of your questions, but first I’d like for you to tell me what you know.”

Tips for Your Tween's First Dance

By KELLy GOEDE

Ah, the first school dance...

As I think back to my own, I see visions of purple taffeta puffed sleeves, mile-high bangs and a mouth full of braces. I thought I was quite becoming, although the photographic evidence betrays my deluded self-confidence. It was 1990, after all. And now, as I stare down the preteen years with my oldest daughter boldly rushing toward growing up at an alarming rate, I wonder if her first school dance will be anything like mine. I cringe and chuckle all at once and realize it’s best to look for someone who has walked this path ahead of me. Have things changed that much? How do I prep my child for an evening where she will be dressed to the nines and boys will ask her to dance (gasp!)?

Enter Cheryl Tyrone, mom to two daughters, one of whom has already crossed that first dance bridge and lived to tell the tale.

“Thank goodness we started shopping early,” Cheryl attests, “There are a lot of dresses out there, but many of them were not ageappropriate for my daughter.”

Both boys and girls alike will be spending time and money crafting just the right look, so Cheryl recommends setting a budget and sticking to it.

Parent-to-Parent Tips:

• Set a budget for apparel shopping with your child and stick to it.

• Allow your child to plan her night and step in to help tie up loose ends.

• Ask your child about her expectations for the night. Is she expecting to hang out with her friends? Dance with boys?

• Clearly communicate your expectations for behavior and conduct.

• If you chaperone the event, give your child space to experience the evening without Mom’s camera following her around.

• Share your own first-dance memories with your child, letting her know you too were once a giggly and awkward tween.

“Katie understood the dance was only three hours long, so there was no need to spend a lot of money on the dress. And chances are, she won’t wear it again.”

And as with so many parenting conundrums, guiding your child toward modest and age-appropriate attire requires lots of discussion and boundary setting along the way.

Beyond looking fabulous, your child may also be thinking of how she is going to get to and from the dance, and whom she will be with before and during the event. Does she want you to drive her? Will a group be going together? What about a pick-up time when the dance is over?

Cheryl says of her daughter, “I let her take the lead regarding our involvement. She and her friends discussed pre-dance preparations and transportation, and then parents helped finalize the details. It made them feel a little more grown up and responsible.”

Once all the details have been worked out, it’s time to quell any anxiety brewing over what to expect once the dance gets underway. Ask your child if she is nervous about anything. Tell her stories from your first dance – chances are she will look way more stylish but feel the same apprehension and excitement. Explain what the venue will be like when she arrives (refreshments, music, decorations) and discuss what kind of dancing you both feel is suitable for each style of music. The more you can engage her in conversation and allow her to talk, the better. And above all, remind her to just be herself and have fun! ✽

Raising a Confident Teen

By REBECCA VITKUS

Starting high school, learning to drive and attending prom are just some of the many teen milestones. However, these formative years often bring peer pressures and insecurities that damage a teen’s self-esteem. Although every teenager is different, it’s important to know what you can do to strengthen your teen’s confidence.

Let your teens make their own decisions, including the bad ones. Give your teens options when making a choice, like which college to apply to or which sport team to join. If they make the wrong decision, be ready to comfort them. If they want to quit, remind them why they started. If they fail, be ready to encourage them to try again.

Confidence. It’s actually quite rare to find in teenagers. Even the “popular kids” have their insecurities. My self-doubt isn’t fully absent; but over the past few years, it has slowly evaporated.

Remember, your teens are watching you as an example. Mom, speak highly of yourself to show that self-confidence is always in fashion. Dad, stand up for what you believe in to show that it is OK to stand out from the crowd. Spend time talking with your teens and reassuring them of their incredible value.

Talk to your teens about why confidence is key. Encourage them to make eye contact when they speak to both their peers and their authorities. Tell them that asking questions is never a bad idea. Advise them that taking risks may not always pay off right away, but in the long run, pursuing your dreams is always beneficial. Show them that being the best version of themselves is better than being copies of anyone else. ✽

Confidence Boosters to Share With Your Teen

Teenshealth.org

Designed for both teen boys and girls, this website includes articles to help deal with issues like parents divorcing, feelings of anxiety and abusive relationships.

“The 7 Habits of Highly Effective Teens” by Sean Covey

If your teen enjoys picking up a book, this guide to growing up is filled with important bits of wisdom like “Put first things first” and “Seek first to understand, then to be understood.”

iCounselor: Anxiety

For just 99 cents, this app asks users to rate their anxiety and responds with basic instructions on how to cope with the situation, like a personal pocket therapist.

It all started four years ago when my mom signed up this shy little girl, with her nose always in a book, for Tae Kwon Do. Initially, I was skeptical about participating because I considered it a boy sport. Yet, within a couple weeks, I considered it my second home. They don’t celebrate belt graduations or have family events, and I liked it that way. It gave me the ability to make friends on my own by training and rising through the belts together. This may seem insignificant to my confidence, but it wasn’t. Forming friendships has always been a weak point for me. When I was able to make friends who accepted me, my confidence exploded. Plus, Tae Kwon Do taught me to embrace the positive aspects of life and to always give 110 percent.

Those small lessons were essential in becoming who I am today. I’m able to love the little things about myself and not worry about societal pressures. Selfassurance frees me up to appreciate who I am for being me. Now, when walking down a hallway or through a mall, I don’t feel eyes judging me. I walk into places with my chin up, a smile on my face and I make eye contact.

This quote from Malcolm Forbes can sum up the human race and one of the reasons why confidence is infrequent to see. Confidence is perceived and silent, not something that is boasted. Step out of your comfort zone and don’t be afraid to rock your smile!

Sincerely, Briana

Photo provided by Briana Berger.

“Too many people overvalue what they are not and undervalue what they are.”

Tell them that asking questions is never a bad idea.

Photos by Giggle Magazine

UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital Debuts Colorful New Atrium in Honor of Sebastian Ferrero

By ANNALEIGH BONDS

Horst and Luisa Ferrero reached another milestone for their Sebastian Ferrero Foundation on September 3rd as they unveiled the new Sebastian Ferrero Atrium in honor of their late son.

The foundation and UF Health celebrated the opening of the new atrium and the progress they have made so far with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital. Speakers at the ribbon-cutting included David Guzick, senior vice president for health affairs; Edward Jimenez, interim chief executive officer; Scott Rivkees, professor and chair of the department of pediatrics and Thomas Mitchell, vice president for development and alumni affairs.

Jimenez said the atrium is part of a series of renovations to create a welcoming setting and high-quality care center for children.

“The Sebastian Ferrero Foundation has been a major supporter of the children’s hospital,” he said. “The atrium portion of the project has been named in honor of their efforts.”

The Ferrero couple founded the Sebastian Ferrero Foundation in 2007 after their healthy 3-year-old son, Sebastian, passed away from a series of preventable medical mistakes that resulted in him receiving a medication overdose, according to sebastianferrero.org. The foundation, whose mission is to ultimately fundraise for advancements in pediatric care, is working with UF Health to make that vision come to life.

The atrium and its exterior were constructed for $11 million with the help of the architecture firm, Ponikvar and Associates Inc., and the builders at Ajax Construction Inc.

“The atrium is a way for us to demonstrate vividly that we have an exciting children’s hospital,” Jimenez said.

The new addition also includes an honorary sculpture called “Tomorrow,” created by world-renowned artist Romero Britto. It is displayed in the entrance to the children’s hospital as a tribute to the future of children’s health care.

The Sebastian Ferrero Atrium includes interactive touch-screen video displays, colorful furniture and glass panels and nature-themed art that span the walls. On one of the walls is a picture of Sebastian Ferrero to honor his story and influence on the hospital.

The completion of the atrium represents the halfway mark of UF Health Shands Children’s Hospital’s planned projects and renovations as well as a huge accomplishment for Mr. and Mrs. Ferrero.

“They turned a tragedy into something that will benefit many many kids,” Jimenez said. ✽

Now when children arrive at the hospital they see an inviting building covered by an array of bright colored panels and an interior that evokes hope and happiness.

we asked our giggle readers to send their first day of school photos and we were so excited with the response! thank you, alachua county, for sharing your Back-to-School excitement with us!

Kaylen, Kindergarten Taylor, 5th Grade

Brevyn, 5th Grade Ryland, 2nd Grade

Keilan, Pre-K

Taiko, Pre-K

Lilly, 5th Grade Lyndsey, 5th Grade

Brandon, Kindergarten

Amariya, 2nd Grade Samiya, 6th Grade

Nadia, 2nd Grade Xavier, Daycare

Colton, Pre-K

Ellie, Kindergarten

Gabe, Pre-K

Austin, 12th Grade Gabriella (Ella), 7th Grade

Courtney, 1st Grade

Alexandrea, 9th Grade Zackrey, 3rd Grade Cassandra, 6th Grade

Samuel, Middle School

Elijah, 2nd Grade Jada, 3rd Grade

Emma, 6th Grade Anna, 4th Grade Layla, 3rd Grade

Adley, 1st Grade

Alyssa, 6th Grade Bryan, 1st Grade

Cade, 1st Grade

Izzy, Preschool Zachary, Pre-K

Ashley, 2nd Grade Matthew, Kindergarten

Maggie, 9th Grade

Nathan, 4th Grade Lauryn, Kindergarten

Elizabeth, 4th Grade; Riley, 3rd Grade; Elle, 4th Grade; Raelyn, 2nd Grade; Andrew, 4th Grade; Reid, 4th Grade; Ryan, Pre-K

Ché, Jr., 3rd Grade Chloe, Kindergarten Micah, 2nd Grade

Zachary, 5th Grade

Parker, 2nd Grade Camden, 1st Grade Adler, Preschool

October & November happy community calendar of

OCTOBER 3 AND 5

UFPA Presents Camelot

friday: 7:30 p.m., Sunday: 2 p.m. Phillips Center Performingarts.ufl.edu

OCTOBER 4 – 5

GFAA 30th Annual Art Festival at Thornebrook Village

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Thornebrook Village Shopping Center

OCTOBER 4

ButterflyFest at Florida Museum of Natural History

10 a.m. – 5 p.m. flmnh.ufl.edu/butterflyfest

OCTOBER 4

10th Gainesville Latino Film Festival: Fiesta de los Niños

10 a.m. – Noon

Alachua County Headquarters Library Gainesvillelatinofilmfestival.com

OCTOBER 4

Gator Football at Tennessee

OCTOBER 4

33rd Annual Dog Days Run Time: TBA Westside Park Ufscavma.com

OCTOBER 5

5th Annual Gainesville Kids Triathlon

8 a.m. – Noon Citizens field Gainesvillekidstri.com

OCTOBER 9

World Premiere of UF Symphony Orchestra: The Story of Cinderella

7:30 p.m. Phillips Center Performingarts.ufl.edu

OCTOBER 10

Movie Night: “Despicable Me 2”

7 – 9 p.m.

The Square at Tioga Town Center 352.331.4000

OCTOBER 11

Lasso for the Little Ones

6 – 10 p.m.

Gilchrist County Rodeo Arena 352.262.3646

OCTOBER 11

Gator Football vs. LSU Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

OCTOBER 13 Columbus Day!

OCTOBER 16

Child Advocacy Center’s Gainesville Gone Austin

6 p.m. Hitchcock farm at Santa fe River Ranch Gainesvillegoneaustin.org

OCTOBER 17

UF Homecoming Parade Noon Gatorgrowl.org/homecoming

OCTOBER 18

Gator Football vs. Missouri (Homecoming) Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

OCTOBER 22 – 23 AND 25 – 26 You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown (Revised)

Wednesday and Thursday: 7 p.m. Saturday: 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. Sunday: 2 p.m. Eastside High School Ehsdramagvfl.org/shows.html

OCTOBER 22

The Intergalactic Nemesis

7:30 p.m. Phillips Center Performingarts.ufl.edu

OCTOBER 23

Voices of Change

6 p.m.

Squitieri Studio Theatre Performingarts.ufl.edu

OCTOBER 24

Concert Series: Chris McCarty

7 – 10 p.m.

The Square at Tioga Town Center 352.331.4000

events

OCTOBER 25

Family Day at the Dairy Farm

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

University of florida Dairy farm familydayatthedairyfarm.info

OCTOBER 25

10th Annual Florida Bat Festival

10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Lubee Bat Conservancy Lubee.org

OCTOBER 25

Kids Kicking Cancer Benefit Concert

4 – 9 p.m.

The Square at Tioga Town Center 352.331.4000

OCTOBER 25

O2BKids Spooktacular

6 – 10 p.m.

O2BKids Supercenter O2bkids.com

OCTOBER 25 Noche de Gala

7 p.m. – Midnight

The Sebastian ferrero foundation’s annual fundraising event. Besilu, Micanopy Nochedegala.org

OCTOBER 25 – 29

Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale

Check the website for hours of operation. The friends of the Library folacld.org

OCTOBER 26

Sunny’s Howl-a-Palooza benefitting the March of Dimes

3 – 6 p.m.

Sun Country Sports – West Suncountrysports.com

OCTOBER 26 – 28

L.A. Theatre Works

7:30 p.m. Phillips Center Performingarts.ufl.edu

happy community

calendar of events

OCTOBER 31

happy halloween !

OCTOBER 31

Boo at the Zoo

3 – 7:30 p.m.

Santa fe College Teaching Zoo Sfcollege.edu/zoo

OCTOBER 31

Trick or Treat on Main Street in Alachua

6 – 8 p.m.

NOVEMBER 1

Gator Football vs. Georgia

3:30 p.m. Jacksonville, fL

NOVEMBER 6

UFPA presents Ron White – Nutcracker

7 p.m. Phillips Center Performingarts.ufl.edu

NOVEMBER 8

Gator Football at Vanderbilt

NOVEMBER 8-9 Downtown Festival and Art Show

10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

NOVEMBER 11

Happy Veterans Day!

NOVEMBER 13

Giggle Magazine & Lang

Jewelers Wish List Party

6:30 p.m. Lang Jewelers

NOVEMBER 14

Starry Night

6 – 10 p.m.

florida Museum of Natural History flmnh.ufl.edu/calendar/grid/starry-night/

NOVEMBER 15

Gator Football vs. South Carolina Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

NOVEMBER 16

UFPA presents Mannheim

Steamroller Christmas by Chip Davis

7:30 p.m. Phillips Center Performingarts.ufl.edu

NOVEMBER 22

Gator Football vs. Eastern Kentucky Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

NOVEMBER 23

Holiday Harmonies III

5:30 p.m.

Oak Hall School – Edith Cofrin Theatre 352.258.1915

NOVEMBER 27

Happy Thanksgiving!

NOVEMBER 29

Gator Football at Florida State

The first jack-o-lanterns were made from turnips!

Materials for Easy, Affordable and FUN Halloween Costumes

By KELLy GOEDE

Pretty Peacock | Approximately $16

“If you can tie a knot, you can make a tutu” — Kelly

• 10 yards of tulle in colors of your choice (cut into strips 3 inches wide)

• Elastic (loosely fitted around child’s waist and tied into a knot)

• Five – 10 sheets of felt in coordinating colors (for tail and mask)

• Ribbon for tying the mask

• Hot glue

*For a pretty finish, cut the edges of the tulle into a point

Super Scuba Diver | Approximately $12

• Empty 2-liter soda bottle (for oxygen tank)

• Can of silver spray paint

• Skinny duct tape in black, silver and yellow

• Gray foam tubing

• Pacifier

• One bamboo chopstick

• Red felt and white felt (for the dive flag)

• Swim goggles or mask

Gnarly Gnome | Approximately $10

• Four sheets of white felt (for beard)

• 10 inches of skinny elastic (to attach beard to ears)

• ½ yard red felt (for hat)

• Hot glue

Silly S’more | Approximately $20

• One medium size moving box, cut into two squares (for "graham crackers")

• Brown kraft paper

• 1 yard brown fleecy fabric (for "chocolate")

• Two plain white 18” pillow forms (for "marshmallows")

• Glow-in-the-dark skinny duct tape (for straps)

• Red, orange and yellow felt (for crown and wand)

• Two white pom poms

• Small stick

Sweet Snail | Approximately $12

• Two rolls brown kraft paper (for snail shell)

• Yellow skinny duct tape (for straps and headband)

• Plastic headband

• Pom poms (for “eyes”)

• Lots of hot glue

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