Giggle Magazine October November 2011 by Irving Publications, LLC

alachua

county’s

PREMIER

F A M I LY

MAGAZINE

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happy family • happy communityTM OCT/NOV 2011 • Volume 3 • Issue 5

teaching

movcary and kies

your children

gratitude

ids

making the

kids' table the place to be on Thanksgiving!

beauty finds for $5! the art of

couponing

giggle

1 www.gigglemag.com

magazine • oct/nov 2011

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giggle magazine

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giggle

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ aug/sept 2010

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PUBLISHER Nicole Irving ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Alison Walker ART DIRECTOR Leslie Vega Graphic Designer Mark Archer Copy Editor Dana Kamp Food Contributor Jennifer Cordova Contributing Writers Wendy Joysen, Chris Wilson, Helen Kornblum, Dana Kamp, Kelsey McNiel, Lindsay Taulbee, Tamara Herchel, Allen Haynes, Tara Massagee, Kathy Dyce, Danielle Walker, LeAndra Valentine, Christina Vila Contributing Photographers Laurel Housden Photography, Verve Studio Kelsey Lynn Gordon Interns Allen Haynes, Sarah Faulkner, Taylor Dixon, Elle Green, Paul Flagg, Sarah Gibson SALES Stephanie Nettles

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

takes you to see the colors of the season.

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

Build your own Thanksgiving tent Step-by-step instructions on how to build your own Thanksgiving tent! Featured on pg. 22

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happy family • happy community

DEC/JAN 2010 • Volume 1 • Issue 6

the peace akeeping with the family during the holidays it’s potty training time! creative gift

wrapping ideas!

happy family • happy community T M

afamily-friendly tailgating

AUG/SEPT 2010 • Volume 2 • Issue 4

the Doerings

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back to school countdown

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giggle magazine

Oct*Nov 2011

happy family • happy community

columns 60 all kidding aside

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

in every issue 24 local life savers

5 ideas for leftover turkey 29 for dads, by dads

Game day grilling 30 family spotlight

The Hintze Family 33 Ladies' night out

A night of art and wine at Corks & Colors 35 giggle stamp

Holiday shopping!

41 why i love raising my family in gainesville The Ropp Family 47 in the kitchen

Soup + Grilled Cheese Sandwiches

57 giggle dollars

Savvy Saving: An Intro to Couponing 63 conception to college

features 8 Halloween!

• Our favorite products + candy

• The do's and don'ts of trick-or-treating • Budget-saving costumes

14 change of plans Kathy Dyce's Story, In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month

21 Setting the Kids'

IS ISS

UE • PLEA

YC L E T H

UE • PLEA

ISS

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happy family • happy communityTM OCT/NOV 2011 • Volume 3 • Issue 5

51 giving children forever families In honor of Adoption Awareness Month

42 21

teaching

movcary and kiies

your children

gratitude

making the

kids' table the place to be on Thanksgiving!

shopping must-haves!

REC

COUNTY’S

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Thanksgiving Table

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ALACHUA

beauty finds for $5! the art of

couponing

giggle magazine • oct/nov 2011 1 www.gigglemag.com

Photo courtesy of Verve Studio Special thank you to the Edwards family for opening your home. Cover models: Jaden, Abigail and Christopher

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

magazine • oct/nov 2011

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YC L E T H

Letter from the Publisher Fabulous Fall!

will never hide the fact that I am not a summer gal. The beach and the surf do not do it for me.

I LOVE the fall and as soon as the seasons change and the first leaf falls, I whip out the blankets, boots and apple cider! Humidity and hot weather- bye bye... hello sweater weather! There are so many wonderful fall festivals to attend, pumpkin patches to explore and pies to be made. What is there not to love? And, not only does it mean pumpkins and turkey, but more excuses for spending time with family and friends. Today, as my life is at its busiest, I find myself appreciating my friends and family more than ever. I am so very THANKFUL each of them has crossed my path on my life’s journey. Whether they are 5 miles or 500 miles away, they are a blessing in my life and for that, I am forever grateful.

in our next issue Keep your eye out for our

December*January issue! Creative gifts for

grandparents

Gifts that give back 2012 giggle magazine family cleanse

& Much more holiday and family fun! 6

giggle magazine

aNicole

Publisher

Some members of our giggle magazine family share what they are thankful for… Leslie

I'm thankful for my incomparable husband, my children, my family, my health, Pinterest and watermelon!

Dana

I am thankful for the amazing relationship I have with my family and the incredible support they have given me through the wonderful, the unpredictable and the challenging times in my life... and milk tea from Bento Cafe.

Allen

I am thankful for the stories, memories and adventures I've been a part of living in Gainesville.

Stephanie

I am thankful for my family.. including my wonderful fiance Justin. They have been a big part of who I am today.

Laurel

I am so thankful for my loving and supportive husband for whom I would be forever lost without.

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We are so excited

to start our fundraising efforts for the March of Dimes with a shopping party! Join us! Pg. 32 for details

follow giggle!

Nicole's photo by Laurel Housden Photography

As the holiday season begins, share with your children what it means to be thankful. Spend a few minutes together each day sharing the blessings in your life and what you are thankful for. Nothing is too simple or silly… I am always thankful for a great mall, drive- thru Starbucks and a 24-hour Walgreens, but also my family, my friends and this wonderful and crazy life I have been blessed with. When I asked my boys this question, their responses made me smile. Tyler said he is grateful for his dog , Nicholas is grateful for his mom and dad and my little Joshua is grateful for his cars.

Our October*November issue has everything covered from Halloween to Christmas shopping, and everything in between. So, grab your favorite blanket and latte…and enjoy!

Owl

treat bag

With the perfect touch of pink, this sweet bag is too pretty to use only once a year!

www.potterybarnkids.com

Frankenstein

treat bag

How fun is this Frankenstein treat bag? Perfect accessory to any costume! www.groovyholidays.com

Photo by Verve Studio

halloween favorites tail+face

tiger

Made from soft baby alpaca wool! Hypoallergenic and eco-friendly. Practices Fair Trade! www.oeufnyc.com

The Playful

Pirate Cape

www.littleherocapes.com

Perfect for Halloween and after! *10% of each order goes to charity.*

Consider these simple and fun Halloween trickor-treat goodies when handing out to treaters!

le gigg p i t ! 8

Store-bought is the best kind of treat. Safety first! Parents: MONITOR all TREATS before allowing children to eat/play with them.

giggle magazine

• Fruit snacks • Granola bars • Mini chocolate treats • Blow Pops • Money in small envelopes

• Gum • Pretzel packs • Pencils • Erasers • Stickers • Tattoos

Product photos by Laurel Housden Photography

j favorite treats

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giggle magazine

giggle

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ oct/nov 2011

budget-saving

costumes heading

* Classic Ghost 1 bed sheet cut holes for eyes • Cowboy jeans button down shirt belt brown shoes bandana cowboy hat

• Chef apron black pants white shirt whisk to carry • Ballerina leotard tights tutu hair in bun red lipstick

• Rock Star spiked hair black shirt silver jewelry jeans sneakers carry play guitar or drumsticks in pocket

do's & don'ts

of trick-or-treating do!

 Carry a flashlight.  Stay with child.  Check all candy before they eat it.  Walk on sidewalks.  Have a cell phone for emergencies.  Bring a camera for memories.  Bring water bottles (it is still hot in FL).  Make sure children can climb stairs in costume.

don't!  Eat candy on the walk.  Purposely scare a child.  Leave a child unattended.  Bring your animal who is not used to lots of kids/noise  Force a child to trick-or-treat if they are not comfortable. It should be fun!  Walk an unknown neighborhood. Photo by Verve Studio

10 giggle magazine

giggle

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ aug/sept 2010

Change of

Plans Breast Cancer Awareness Month

River Lodge, which has some of the best home-cooked meals in the world. The first appointment that I needed to check off the “to do list” was with Dr. R. Bartley for my annual exam. I was surprised to learn from him that I had not had a mammogram for five years. I was sure I had it on the July list. On July 27, 2010, I went in for the routine mammogram. I was waiting to receive the news “everything looks good and we’ll see you next year.” Instead, the radiologist came into the room and informed me that another mammogram should be done. I told him I’d schedule it sometime during the summer.

in her words...kathy dyce

t was the middle of July 2010. I had just finished teaching summer school, was finalizing vacation plans and following through with the scheduled doctor’s appointments I had made. The “to do list” before school began again in August was complete, or at least that’s what I thought.

kathy's

I was looking forward to my vacation with my sisters and their families in Plumtree, North Carolina, at The Vance Toe River Lodge. We planned to spend five days together exploring the mountains and eating at the Toe

As I got up to get dressed, he replied “We’re doing it now.” After the second routine mammogram, a biopsy was added to the “to do list.” I was somewhat perplexed. I had never

“not just smelling the flowers but picking them.” had any major medical procedures except the birth of my two children, who were now 23 and 26. Later that day, I spoke with Dr. Bartley by phone and was referred to Dr. N. Earle Pickens of the Surgical Group of Gainesville, whom I met with on July 29. My first reaction was to start researching online, but that was so overwhelming. I didn’t know many women who had breast cancer and surely I did not have it. After calling my friend, whom I call Sister Rose (a breast cancer survivor herself), much of my anxiety about the unknown was calmed. Instead of traveling to Plumtree, N.C., the “to do list” for August 4, 2010, now read “biopsy.” The biopsy was very emotional for me. As I sat there in the chair I could only think that I was not the first and would not be the last to sit there. I said a prayer for all the women before me, and those who would come after me, that we all would find faith, strength and support. The moment forever etched in my mind is Friday, August 6, at 5:18 pm. Dr. Pickens called and said many things I am sure, but I only heard the words “breast cancer.” My daughter was right beside me and writing down what he said. She knew that I would not be able to remember enough to explain this phone call to my husband. The type of cancer I had was noninvasive ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS).

Photos by Kelsey Lynn Photography

Kathy with her children, Brigette and Byron II, who proved to be a great source of support during her difficult journey. Brigette and Kathy started another list together, adding McAlister's Deli to the list of "after radiation" things to do.

This October, in honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, we encourage you to schedule your annual mammogram and encourage the women in your life to do the same! Kathy is a prime example of the importance of early detection.

14 giggle magazine

It is the earliest form of breast cancer at Stage 0. After I hung up the phone, I just cried and cried and cried. Yet deep within my spirit, I knew after the tears fell, the time to fight would come. I also knew some of my family members and friends, especially my mom, Joyce, would have to be told face to face, not by a telephone call. Later that night one of my dear friends arrived from Ft. Myers. Her husband, Steve, lived for 23 years with five different cell types of cancer. She was so generous to share her time and knowledge as we began a similar journey.

My sisters called on Saturday. They had been zip lining in the mountains. There was so much joy and laughter in their voices; I was not going to spoil that moment for them. It was not until they arrived back home that I told my sisters about my breast cancer. This wasn’t the way summer was to end, for any of us. The first thing on my fall “to do list” should have been getting ready for the new school year. Instead, at the top of the list for September 3, 2010, was a right partial mastectomy. My sister, Debbie, surprised me by traveling from New York to be by my side the night before the surgery. Janet, my oldest sister, supported me by scheduling a mammogram in mid-September. She discovered it had been two years since her last exam. The results for her were the same as mine - breast cancer (DCIS). We were reminded that early detection is the key. As sisters we have always been close, but the journey of this past year has produced a bond that can never be broken. After surgery, I added radiation therapy to the list. On August 11, I had my initial consult with Dr. Cherylle Hayes of North Florida Radiation Oncology. My entourage (my husband, Byron; son, Byron II; and daughter, Brigette) accompanied me to the radiation appointments. I had an incredible team of mediation support throughout my radiation treatments. On October 13, 2010, I began receiving radiation and received my last treatment two days after my 55th birthday on November 29. That was easily the best birthday gift ever. Continued on page 17

Continued from page 15

In October of 2010, through encouragement from my cousin, Brenda, I participated in the American Cancer Society event “Making Strides Against Breast Cancer.” Our team “XO 4 A Cure” is planning to walk again this year on October 22. I will be ready thanks to the fitness program that I started in January 2011, designed by my son, Byron, and Janelle, both personal trainers at Gainesville Health and Fitness Center.

I've started a new list.

It’s about gratitude and living in the moment, “not just smelling the flowers but picking them.” I still have the other list. I never want to forget how fortunate I was. It’s been a humbling journey. I’ve met women who are so courageous and live with a tenacity to survive. Their strength became my strength and their hope became my hope. I’ve grown in gratitude. b

“it's about the d

how to create your wreath

the prettiest

Wreath on the block

Craft by Danielle Walker, Photos by Verve Studio

I like to decorate my wreath on the living room floor to allow myself plenty of room to lay my supplies out and have everything within reach. Take the wired poly deco mesh ribbon and cut it to the desired length (around 60 – 65 in. of ribbon is used for a 22 in. wreath).

Using craft wire, bunch the mesh ribbon by tightly wrapping the wire around the ribbon. Do this every 8 in. for the entire length of the ribbon, leaving enough wire on each section to attach to the wreath.

3 4

Once the ribbon is wired every 8 in., attach the ribbon to the wreath with the excess wire around the entire wreath. Now the fun part…

Make sure your hot glue gun is on. Before I glue anything on the wreath I like to lay my accessories (flowers, butterflies, etc.) out on the wreath and get an idea of how I want it to look. Then I take everything off and start to glue the items to the wreath.

all you need  • Low temperature hot glue gun • Light weight craft wire (26 gauge wire works well) • Needle nose pliers • Scissors • One medium-sized wreath (about 22 in. in diameter) • Wired ribbon (I used a poly deco mesh, 22 in. width-this can be difficult to find in stores but is easily found on websites such as Amazon.com.) • All other materials used on this wreath were purchased at a local craft store. I chose a color scheme and purchased items that corresponded with this theme.

18 giggle magazine

When gluing your flowers on the wreath, it’s a good idea to start off with the largest items first and then move to the smaller ones. Apply glue to the tips of the flowers and forcefully place the stems between the layers of the wreath.

Voila! You have a beautiful wreath!

Helpful Hint: You can recycle and reuse your wreath by changing out ribbons and accessories for different holidays.

Little wreath: If you are not up for tackling the big wreath, try your skills on a set of mini wreaths that can be hung inside or out.

giggle

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ augt/sept 2011

setting the

kids' thanksgiving

table photos by Verve Studio

gobble 'til you

wobble

at the kids' table!

Thanksgiving is a time of celebration…a time family and friends get together to give thanks for the special things in our lives. Why not let children know just how special they are by creating a space just for them?

5 j Thank YOU Boxes!

Thanksgiving is a time to give thanks to those around you and to appreciate what you have.

“Thank You” boxes filled with fun goodies for the children are a wonderful way to show how grateful you are for them.

2 3

The Kid Korner! Perfect for story time and day dreaming, this easy-tomake tent is inviting and kid-friendly. A pint-sized table is the perfect place for their snacks! Nothing says “fall” more than caramel apples. This treat is yummy and easy to make. This “apple station” is filled with all the toppings a child could want! No surface should be left alone. Decorate chairs and tables with child-friendly banners, paper and bright colors to keep them happy.

The star of the show… the turkey! What better way to highlight it than with an adorable cake for the children.

Personalized milk bottles with fun straws and embellished with sprinkles are sure to be a hit.

let them

play food! with their

Caramel Apple Station, Fun for the whole family! Items: Clean and dry apples Caramel for melting Sprinkles M&M’s candies Reece’s Pieces Lollipop holders Ribbon Plates *Parents-you will need to assist children with this activity!

Directions:

• Prepare apples by washing, drying, and inserting stick • Pour each topping onto individual plate • Melt caramel via directions on your package • Dip apple into caramel and twist off excess • Place apple on topping plate and let child roll in sprinkles or decorate warm apples with candy. • Leave apples to harden • Once cool enough to eat, tie ribbon around for extra fun! Enjoy!

the thankful tree j The "Thankful" Tree Have you ever wondered what your children are thankful for? Allow them to express their gratitude by writing down what they are thankful for. Read the list aloud at the dinner table or hang from a "thankful tree." Parents can keep the thank you cards and look back at the cards to see what their little people gave thanks for over the years.

meet the party gurus that put it all together!

• Cake - Dream Day Cakes • Set Design & Paper - Lauren McKinsey Designs • Photography - Verve Studio • Location - Special thank you to the Archer family

giggle

magazine • aug/sept 2011

pour heading community’s life savers for every age!

ideas

for leftover

turkey

BY DANA KAMP

There’s only one thing better than all that delicious food on Thanksgiving day-leftovers the next day! There’s just something about that turkey sandwich that’s yummier than the turkey sandwiches we eat the rest of the year. But even the best sandwich only satisfies us for a day or two. Then our palate craves some variety. This year, branch out from the usual sliced turkey sandwich and opt for one of these mouth-watering alternatives. You might just start a new leftover turkey tradition.

White Turkey Chili

This warm, comforting chili is a delicious way to use up that sliced turkey. Make a large batch and freeze in several containers for an easy dinner on cool nights. Personalize your chili with your family’s favorite spices. The whole family will appreciate a different flavor than the traditional chili, and they won’t stop eating long enough to realize the cannellini beans, turkey, and veggies you put in the pot are loaded with nutrients!

Turkey and Corn Enchiladas

24 giggle magazine

Turkey and Stuffing Casserole

I’m not a chef, not even close to it, but I can prepare this almost-effortless casserole. You’ll need sliced or shredded turkey, gravy, stuffing and cranberry sauce. All the ingredients come straight out of the Tupperware you filled your fridge with on Thanksgiving evening. Start with stuffing on the bottom of a baking dish and add some turkey, then some gravy. Repeat layers. Top with cubes of cranberry sauce. Bake at 350 degrees for 30 minutes and serve. See? You don’t need to be Rachael Ray to make an incredible meal-you just need giggle!

Turkey Salad Sandwiches

An appetizing substitute for the traditional turkey sandwiches, this can be set up as a make-your-own station with diced celery, relish, chopped bell peppers and any other desired mix-ins. Try plain yogurt instead of mayonnaise for a healthier concoction. Get creative and add curry powder, chopped cucumber and/or chopped carrot. Serve on your favorite bread.

turkesy!

Everyone loves pizza

any day of the year. Make your family smile and use those last two cups of chopped turkey to make your own pizzas on whole wheat pitas. Grab that jar of your favorite tomato sauce and spread some on each pita. Add turkey, chopped veggies and shredded mozzarella cheese on top and bake. A toasty, scrumptious way to finish off those last servings of leftovers. b

pizza

A simple, five-ingredient recipe is exactly what you deserve after the hours of cooking you endured for Thanksgiving dinner. These easy enchiladas just need turkey, corn, grated pepper jack cheese, tortillas and enchilada sauce. After combining the first three ingredients and spooning the mixture into tortillas, simply roll up the tortillas, top with a little more cheese and the enchilada sauce and bake. The whole process shouldn’t take more than 25 minutes! Perfect for an exhausted After-Thanksgiving Sale shopper!

easy ideas!

giggle

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ oct/nov 2011

Enjoy more family time and leave the cleaning to us.

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giggle magazine

28 giggle

for dads. by dads. p

gameday {grilling}

Tips for Your Football and Food Fiesta By chris wilson

t’s almost as much fun to chow down as it is to Gator chomp. Whether it means slow smoking a batch of Razorback ribs or grilling some Gamecock wings, there is nothing better than a fan feeding frenzy on gameday. After that, a win on the field is the gravy on top. The truth is that Dad can even rescue a gameday-gone-bad with some good eats. Whether enjoyed at home or while tailgating, grilled foods go with football. Here is a gameday grilling primer. First, choose your fuel. Some believe charcoal imparts a tasty smokiness to the food. It can also be fun to hang around the grill as the fire burns. Others prefer the ease and cleanliness of using a propane grill, which creates no ash and has a fire ready in a few minutes. Electric grills and smokers are also useful. Wood chips or chunks can be used with any fuel source to add a rich, smokey flavor to meats.

 Chicken - Chicken can be thrown onto hot grill grates and then cooked over medium heat. The best part about chicken is that it takes on so many flavors. Experimenting with different marinades or sauces with grilled chicken is fun. Thighs stay particularly juicy on the grill.

"a win on the field is just the

Make sure your grates are clean. This is often forgotten, but having burned bits from last Tuesday’s dinner can ruin Father’s football food. For that reason, the doublesecret Dad method for cleaning a grill grate is now unveiled. Wrap a slice or two of bacon around the end of barbecue tongs and wipe it across hot grill grates while the grill is on. The bacon removes a great deal of char and should be discarded. Then, using half an onion on its flat side like it is a sponge, scrub the hot grates. It smells great and it will have your grates ready for cooking.

gravy on the top!"

It’s one thing for people to be sick over the outcome of a game, but food-borne illness is not a joke. The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has recommended internal meat temperatures on its web site (www.usda.gov). Meat thermometers help ensure food safety and properly cooked food tastes better. Of course, the possibilities of what to cook are endless. All dads should have a couple of these down in the repertoire:

 Burgers - Salt and pepper on the patty and the burger is ready to cook. Burgers are simple, but always a hit.  Steaks - Like chicken, steaks can be thrown onto hot grates and cooked over medium heat. Be careful because steak can dry out if it’s cooked too long. Be sure to ask any guests how they prefer their steak to be cooked. If you prefer finger food for football, turn grilled steak into burritos or Philly cheese steaks.

 Ribs - Because there is not much meat, ribs can be very unforgiving when grilled improperly. Ribs must be cooked over low temperature (200-250*F) for hours to avoid having tough meat. Babyback ribs are cooked for five hours and spare ribs for about six hours. Rub them with spices or a premixed spice rub before cooking and save the sauce for when the ribs are ready. A smoker is an ideal tool for cooking ribs.  Veggies - Zucchini and eggplant sliced lengthwise, onions, mushrooms, peppers of all kinds, tomatoes and many other vegetables are tasty when grilled. If it looks too small to grill, thread it onto skewers or try a pan that can be used on a grill. b

giggle

magazine • oct/nov 2011

familyht

spotlig

"home is

where the

heart is."

The Hintze Family by TARA MASSAGEE

fter looking up at the clock and realizing hours have passed by and the time is now 5:45 p.m., Matt Hintze knows he has hours of work left but decides to step away from his desk to run home and have dinner with his wife and children before it gets even later. As he reaches for the doorknob at his front door and begins to twist, all the stress and aggravation from work begins to dissipate and anything else he had on his mind is left at the threshold until he heads back to work. “When I walk in the door I am Matt the daddy, not Matt the boss, not Matt the teacher,” he said. For Matt and Larina Hintze, raising a family that includes three children, Madison (7), Cameron (6) and Brennan (4), managing their own business and being involved within the community is all part of a day’s work. Both of the Hintzes are University of Florida graduates and have lived in Gainesville for over 10 years. Matt Hintze said he decided to stay in Gainesville after getting his master’s degree because he felt the city would be a great place to raise a family. “I feel like there’s a strong undertow in Gainesville,” he said. “It kinda just sucks you in.” The parks, trails and “environmental consciousness” are what Larina Hintze said made Gainesville so appealing to her. Every other weekend she and a friend take their children and go park hopping. Raising children in a nature-based environment where they can go out and play is very important to her, she said. Not only are the Hintzes partners within each others’ lives but they are also partners within their business. Matt Hintze

30 giggle magazine

is the founder of Tutoring Zone and his wife is the chief operating officer. Tutoring Zone is a business that gives tutoring classes for students at the University of Florida. “The vision for tutoring zone was to be able to offer affordable and supplemental instruction so students could do better in school and reach their goals,” he said. In graduate school, Hintze would give private tutoring to help pay for expenses, he said. Then a day or so before an exam he would get together with the people he tutored and offer a review. It then occurred to him that “professional supplemental instruction for college students was needed,” and at the time there “weren’t any companies offering good tutoring” for students, he said.

So, what started out as a side business has now evolved into a company that tutors 10,000 to 12,000 University of Florida students a semester, he said. Because the Hintzes are their own bosses, he said they are allowed to have more flexibility and freedom with their schedules. This helps him and his wife have a balance when it comes to devoting time for their family and time for work, he said. Matt is able to get up and make breakfast with his children and then drive them to school before going to work. He said he and his wife make it a priority to balance their family life with their work life. In order to create and achieve that balance, the Hintze family said one of their main goals is to always be “emotionally present,” around their children. Larina Hintze described emotionally present as being happy, attentive and “completely available emotionally for your children.” She said when parents get home from work they should shift gears from whatever went on that day and just be happy around their children. Sometimes that may mean spending a few minutes in the car before walking inside or taking a stroll around the neighborhood to relax, she said. Another tip she said she uses with her family when they are spending quality time with one another is to turn off all the “background noise.” She said when parents are home with their children they should turn off the computers, the video games and the cell phones. “When we come home we play,” she said. Even though the Hintze family stays busy with business and raising their children, they still find time to give back to the community. One way their company gives back is by offering free tutoring to students. Matt Hintze said students can

"The vision for Tutoring Zone was...,

Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

affordable instruction..."

"...turn off all the,

background noise." volunteer for organizations, such as Big Brothers Big Sisters or CHAMPS, and in return get all the Tutoring Zone they want at no cost. He said 10 percent to 15 percent of the students who use Tutoring Zone are there for free, and “we are proud of that.” “We want to see students reach their goals and reach their dreams,” Hintze said. Other organizations that the Hintze family is involved with are Tyler’s Hope and Stop Children’s Cancer. Every year a poker tournament is held at Tutoring Zone to benefit Tyler’s Hope. Student qualifiers are chosen during the spring and come back at the end for the final competition. Larina Hintze said these organizations are near and dear to her family’s heart because they are all completely about children. “As a parent nothing matters more than the safety and health of your children,” she said. b

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magazine • oct/nov 2011

32 giggle magazine

ladies’night out! gainesville moms take a break. Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

Our friends at Corks & Colors,

a paint-it-yourself studio, have expanded their services! In addition to their classic canvas painting studio experience, they have now started offering candle and soap making. So, what better place for our latest LNO! With all the necessary supplies laid out perfectly for us, we started the process of creating our own personalized soaps and candles. With an array of colors and scents to choose from, the combinations were endless! As our creative juice flowed, we were able to sit back and enjoy each other’s company as we snacked on our favorite treats we brought to share.

make it

creative night!

Once our soaps and candles were ready, they were beautifully wrapped, ready to gift! Another wonderfully creative and fun night at Corks & Colors.

a little art and a little wine! Paintings Soap making Candle making Birthday Parties Baby Showers And much more!

varie of arty t pr

ojec ts

530 W University Ave Gainesville, FL 32601 352-575-4069 www.Corks-Colors.com giggle

magazine • oct/nov 2011

LOV

E IT.

W E

•

E IT

E IT E

LOV

E IT.

Bird Nest Charm Hip To Be Me Miracles Maternity & Children’s Boutique 352-338-2040

comes in a variety of colors! TOY Watch

Candy for your wrist Lang Jewelers 352-672-6299

Apple & Bee Beauty Bag

Scruble Cube

A word game and puzzle with endless word possibilities. Ages 8 and up scrublecube.com. Also available at Toys "R" Us

Zibits Mini Collectible R/C Robots Alpha 7 (shown) www.toysrus.com

Large enough to carry all your beauty necessities and cute enough to carry everywhere, this beauty bag even has a detachable clear bag to carry your essentials aboard a plane. www.appleandbeeshop.com

Apple iPad Messenger Sling Compact, organized, and sleek, this sling bag is perfect for those on the go! Oh yeah, it is water-resistant too! www.organize.com

baker's bliss!

perfect for the modern techie!

Bakers Edge Pan

Makes brownies with moist centers and chewy edges! Perfect for the baker in your family! www.bakersedge.com Photo courtesy of Baker's Edge

Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

iPad and iPhone Cases

These fun and stylish 3-piece iPad/ iPhone cases provide easy access to all button and ports while looking good! Best part: they are washable! www.techcandycases.com giggle

magazine • oct/nov 2011

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early

heading p

holiday shopping

tips!

Tips on how to shop early and have fun doing it!

Be Prepared When beginning your holiday shopping, online or at the store, always have a list in hand and a budget prepared.

Grab a Buddy Sometimes stores will have a Buy 1 Get 1 Free deal, so why not split the cost and save money and time! Plus, it is always more fun shopping with a friend.

Call Stores Ahead of Time Looking for something in particular and donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to wait for the rush? Call the stores early and see if they have it available now and if they are offering any sales soon.

Shop Online Shopping online gives you four big advantages: selection, convenience, prices and time.

Couponing/Promo Codes Never pay full price when you can find promo codes and coupons. Google your favorite store and see if they have a printable or online promo code. Start early and check expiration dates.

Comparison Shop Always shop around for the best deal. Check your local stores for the best deal for your money, as well as their return policy, warranty and coupon policy.

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magazine â&#x20AC;˘ oct/nov 2011

beauty

 Nuance by Salma Hayek Mamey Fruit Volumizing Shampoo and Raw Honey Color Protect Shampoo—luscious, paraben-free shampoos from Salma Hayek’s new beauty line. Made with soy protein and natural fruit extracts and never tested on animals.

for

fabulous finds

five dollars!

by dana kamp

 Maybelline Great Lash Mascara "America’s favorite mascara” and celebrating its 40th birthday! When a beauty product has been around for 40 years and is still on every best-selling list, they’re doing something right.  Lumene Vitamin C+ Age Defying Radiant Day Cream – packed with natural antioxidants and vitamin c, this rich cream fortifies, energizes and protects the skin.

 Sephora Nano Eyeliner (in khaki green)—gorgeous, highly pigmented eye pencil that glides on smoothly and adds a stunning effect to your eyes.

Beauty products are plentiful in our society. Almost every store you enter has a beauty aisle, section or department. The price range of these products can be dramatic, and it sometimes leaves those on a budget wondering about the quality of the products on the lower end of the scale. We wanted to find great products at a fantastic price to kick off our new beauty column in giggle. Each of these products has something about it we, as consumers, love, such as natural ingredients, vitamins and minerals, yummy scents and/or a trusted brand name behind it. Add these features to the fact that each item only costs around $5 and you have a pretty fabulous list of budget-friendly finds.

{visit} gigglemag.com and enter to

 Burt’s Bees Super Glossy Natural Lip Shine (in Nectar Nude)—100% natural, deliciously hydrating gloss.

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win

our fabulous finds!  The Healthy Body Butter-Lavanila—luxuriously rich body cream created with 30 essential vitamins and minerals and without parabens, sulfates, petrochemicals, synthetic dyes and fragrances or phthalates.

The Junior League works with more than 40 community agencies in Gainesville and Alachua County in providing this opportunity. The Junior League uses monies raised from fundraisers and the Junior League Thrift Shop to purchase the toys and bicycles for MOMS. It is the Junior League of Gainesville’s largest community service project. In the past, several local businesses sponsored the event by providing the breakfast for the families participating in the event.

Miracle on Main Street moms lending

a hand

By leandra valentine Photos by Kelsey Lynn Photography

ager to be in the hands of a deserving child, plush animals, baby dolls and miniature trucks, assembled neatly on the shelves, will sit in anticipation of their first owners. Moms and dads, aunts and uncles, grandparents and children will line up with as much enthusiasm as the plastic toys inside the toy shop. Although it sounds similar to the cheery and energized atmosphere on Black Friday, for the 21st year families will be lining up at the Junior League of Gainesville Miracle on Main Street (MOMS) event on December 3, 2011.

Just in time for the winter holidays, the warehouse will be fully stocked and will resemble Santa’s workshop. But at last year’s MOMS event, the “workshop” wasn’t the only element similar to that of the North Pole. With steady breezes at 42 degrees Fahrenheit, families huddled outside for the 8 a.m. opening. One dad, Gregory Richards, waited so long that he partially helped with event set-up. To assure his place in line, Richards said he arrived at 5:20 p.m. the night before, more than 15 hours before the event officially began. “It’s nice to surprise the kids and I don’t have to go broke for Christmas,” he says of the event. While Richards kept the gifts a secret from his children, others bring the kids along to take advantage of the fun and games at the various table set-ups. Creating healthy trail mixes using Cheerios, pretzels and chocolate chips at a table dedicated to the Kids in the Kitchen initiative was half the fun. At one table, Jennifer Beck’s daughter, Alonica, 6, exclaimed after seeing University of Florida’s mascots Albert and Alberta and receiving a book from the Read With Me literacy project, “I saw an alligator and a lady read me a princess book!” For Michael and Heather Green, MOMS was especially memorable. Their son, John-Michael, 2, was spending his first holiday season outside the confines of a hospital. Although he is a heart transplant patient, John-Michael was smiling from ear to ear.

how you MOMS is a day-long toy give-away for deserving Alachua County residents. At last year’s November event, 369 families were served at MOMS by using vouchers given to them by local agencies such as Partnership for Strong Families, ACORN and the Children’s Home Society. The 850 vouchers, which are used in an organized point system, are the families’ tickets to a warmer holiday season.

40 giggle magazine

can help

•Donate new or gently used toys – The Jr. League accepts toys for boys and girls of all ages. • Sponsor a Bike - By sponsoring a bike with a $50 tax deductible donation, you can help make this a holiday to remember.

For more information, visit the Junior League’s web site gainesvillejrleague.org or call 352-376-3805.

why I l ve raising my family in

gainesville The Ropp Family

Rich, Michelle, Trenton, 14, and Tanner, 12

t was the summer of 1988 when I fell in love with Gainesville. I came up from Miami to attend Preview at UF and I couldn’t believe what a beautiful city it was. Four years later, I married my wonderful husband, Rich, who grew up here and cherished everything about his hometown. After graduation, we moved to Orlando for 8 years to follow jobs. Late 1999, Rich was offered a position in Gainesville with a pharmaceutical company. We jumped on it to come back.

Photo by Laurel Housden Photography

This time, we returned to Gainesville with our two young sons, Trenton, then 3, and Tanner, 1. It has been 11 1/2 years and we find new things to love about this city every day. We loved the college life when we were UF students, but coming back as a young family of four, we loved Gainesville even more. We enjoyed the beautiful parks and playgrounds that we could visit daily. Gator football games and gymnastics meets have been family favorites for years. The Florida Museum of Natural History and Morningside Nature Center were two of our favorite places to visit when the boys were younger. When they started school we found the teachers and programs outstanding. We feel so fortunate to have such high-caliber teachers who nurture and educate our children while preparing them for the next step in their education. Some of our favorite family times have been enjoying all of the surrounding areas. We love that in 30 minutes, we can be boating and floating on Little Lake Santa Fe or in another hour, surfing and boogie boarding at Crescent Beach. Closer to home, we love to spend time walking through San Felasco’s trails or taking a bike ride down Millhopper Road. Many evenings, you’ll find our family enjoying the Jonesville Soccer Complex where both boys play soccer. Also, we love that there are so many opportunities to hear local and visiting bands, including one of our favorites, Sister Hazel. We have felt privileged to have had some amazing musicians give lessons to our boys and inspire them to play many types of music and instruments. Gainesville will always be close to our hearts when we think of raising our family. This city has a close-knit community that allows parents to raise children in a safe, positive and enriching environment. Everyone from our friends and neighbors to our church community contribute to what we love about Gainesville. We wouldn’t trade it for anywhere else. 

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magazine • june/july 2011

g in

tha

sgi v

teaching

children to show

thanksgiving

gratitude By christina vila

urkeys are carved year after year as hungry family members gather around a table eagerly anticipating the annual November feast. The Thanksgiving holiday provides a great opportunity to teach children the true meaning of being thankful and how important it is to show gratitude to those who give in big and small ways. It is a holiday dedicated to reflecting on our lives and acknowledging our good fortune. It is a chance to give thanks and give back as a family. Sincere appreciation and gratitude are important traits to instill in children. Kids can give a begrudged "thanks" to almost anyone if their parents shoot them a look. But then they can also be full of surprises, moments of sincerity that come from the heart. During this Thanksgiving season, take the time to foster the good qualities kids have by following a few simple tips and creative ideas to show how thankful you really are as a family. Collect Donations: Many families make it a point to collect nonperishable goods to donate to food banks for the holidays. This year, instead of just collecting food, how about collecting clothes, blankets, toiletries and other necessities? Involve your children in the project by having them distribute the goods evenly and putting them into separate bags. Then you can take the bags to a neighborhood shelter together as a family, where your children can see the direct impact their work will have on individuals and families that are less fortunate in their own community. Make a List: This is the easiest way a family can display their gratitude. Your kids might point out how grateful they are for the new video game you got them or for the food in front of them at the moment. But sometimes kids surprise you, telling you they are grateful for the support system they have at home or for the fact that they could go on vacation last summer. Priorities change as children grow, and parents should be pleased to know that their children acknowledge their efforts. This is also an opportunity to show how grateful you are for the people around you, so write some names down on that list.

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Extend the Invitation: A big part of showing thankfulness is reaching out to others who may not have the same opportunities. Gather as a family and have a brainstorming session to find a person who needs a family for Thanksgiving. This could include an elderly neighbor or a young teacher who just moved here away from her family and has nowhere to go for the holiday. Invite them over for Thanksgiving and share with them how much they mean to you. Send Letters to Unsung Heroes: This is a good activity to partake in with older children. There are men and women around the world and in our very communities who work behind the scenes to make our lives a little easier. These include the heroic efforts of soldiers, firefighters, cafeteria workers, janitors and more. Write letters with your children thanking these individuals for their service. Teach them that these people contribute to our lives and it is important to acknowledge those who give to us in big and small ways every day. Keep a Thankfulness Calendar: Hang a calendar on the wall and have family members jot down one thing they are grateful for every day in November. This teaches kids that there is something special about each day and helps them find disguised blessings. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re feeling ambitious, keep the habit up for the whole year. You canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t gain weight with an extra serving of gratitude. So pile it on this Thanksgiving. b

"reflecting on our lives and acknowledging our good fortune"

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magazine â&#x20AC;˘ aug/sept 2011

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heading

Pumpkin spice is

oh so nice BY ALLEN HAYNES

Every October,

when leaves start losing their grip on branches and the sun starts calling it a day earlier and earlier, millions of Americans flock to pumpkin patches to pick out the perfect canvas for a jack-o’-lantern masterpiece. Here are a few fun facts and foods you can make using this symbol of Halloween.

did u know? 1. Pumpkins were once recommended for removing freckles and curing snakebites.

fun recipes pumpkin pie

Let’s start with the obvious. Pumpkin pie is an autumn dessert staple. Make a homemade pie using the insides, or meat, of the pumpkin instead of canned filling. Adding a pinch of cinnamon provides an extra flavor kick that is sure to bring forth the ever-popular question, “What’s your recipe?”

2. Pumpkins are 90 percent water. 3. About 80 percent of the pumpkin supply in the United States is available in October. 4. Pumpkins are fruit, and their closest relative is the squash.

Pumpkin Spice Muffins A great breakfast treat or the perfect coupling with a 3:00 p.m. cup of coffee is a pumpkin spice muffin. One bite of this autumn-inspired morsel will send floods of pumpkin carving and hayride memories to the forefront of your mind.

Pumpkin Seed Brittle

This simple concoction of basil, pumpkin seeds, parmesan and garlic is a splendid topping for pasta, or the ideal appetizer for your Halloween dinner party.

Who says peanuts get all the fun in the brittle department? Replacing peanuts with pumpkin seeds from your freshly carved jack-o’-lantern, transforms your brittle into the perfect autumn snack.

Roasted Pumpkin Seeds Roasting your leftover pumpkin seeds is easy. Simply rinse them off, no need to dry, and place them on a baking sheet. Coat them with a layer of butter and sprinkle either salt or cinnamon sugar on top before baking at 300 degrees F for 45 minutes. Let them cool for five minutes before diving into this bite-size goodie.

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Pumpkin Pesto

the perfect soup +

grilled

combination

e s e e h c

fixin' bar

in the kitchen

Soup + grilled cheese fixin'

bar

by JENNIFER CORDOVA Photos by Verve Studio, Food styling by Nicole Irving

Comfort food at its best,

soup and grilled cheese sandwiches are perfect for a quick weeknight dinner! As the weather cools down and the busyness of the holidays approaches, turn to these homey recipes to warm you from the inside out! gigg

favorile te

Stir in the cayenne, cumin, coriander, stock and tomato sauce. Bring the soup to a boil, lower the heat, and simmer for 10 minutes, stirring occasionally. Take the pan off the heat and whisk in the yogurt, then season to taste with salt and pepper. To serve, ladle into bowls and sprinkle with chopped parsley.

allstaros

comb By Nicole Irving

Granny Smith Apples and Cheddar on Sourdough bread.

Soup and Sandwich Ceramic Duo www.uncommongoods.com

Quick +Easy! Creamy Tomato Soup

Cheddar with Tomato and Basil on Rye/Pumpernickel swirl bread grilled to perfection.

By Jennifer Cordova

This flavorful soup is a classic accompaniment to grilled cheese. It only takes a few minutes to prepare, so as it simmers, you can get those sandwiches together! Serves 4 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 small onion, finely chopped 1 garlic clove, minced pinch of cayenne (optional) 1/4 tsp. cumin 1/2 tsp. coriander 1 1/2 c. chicken or vegetable stock 28 oz. can tomato sauce 1/3 c. Greek yogurt salt and pepper fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish) Heat the olive oil in a medium saucepan over medium-high heat; add the onion and sautĂŠ, stirring occasionally until soft, about 2-3 minutes. Add the garlic and cook, stirring constantly, for one minute until fragrant.

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Turkey and Cheddar with Honey Mustard and Romain on Multi-grain bread.

4 Tips for a Delicious, Golden Crust 1. Spread a thin layer of softened butter over the bread, or brush with olive oil. 2. Preheat your frying pan or griddle over medium heat before adding the sandwiches. 3. Cook the first side undisturbed until the bread is golden and the cheese has melted, then flip and use a spatula to gently press down and flatten the sandwich slightly. 4. When both sides are golden, flip the sandwich again to get the first side nice and crispy again.

Chicken

Soup Recipe

grilled cheese

fixin' bar

Looking for a way to make your grilled cheese sandwiches more exciting while still satisfying the pickiest eater in the family? Create your own grilled cheese fixings bar where everyone can customize their favorite sandwich! Here are a few ideas to get you started...

Vegetables - tomatoes and spinach are quick and easy, but really any vegetable can work well. Take the opportunity to use up those leftover steamed veggies. Finely chop last night’s broccoli for some added nutrition and flavor!

Fresh and dried herbs - sprinkle fresh oregano, basil, or a dried Italian herb mix to bring a unique and delicious burst of flavor.

Meats - deli meats like ham, turkey and prosciutto are fantastic add-ins, as is sliced grilled chicken, which pairs easily with so many flavors!

Cheeses - cheddar is always a classic, but try browsing the specialty cheeses for new ideas to mix and match gruyere and brie are creamy and delicious, adding another layer of complexity to your sandwich.

Breads - don’t forget those outer layers when you’re ready to mix things up! Vary the look, taste and texture of your sandwich with different breads, from white to wholewheat or multigrain!

Potato

Soup Submitted by Carmen Basile

4 c diced raw potatoes 1/2 c chopped celery 1/2 c chopped onion 1 c water 2 c chicken broth or stock 2 c milk, scalded 4 tbsp. butter 1 c sour cream 3 tbsp. flour salt and pepper to taste

Ingredients: whole chicken, 3-4 pounds 2-3 large dried bay leaves 1 large onion, chopped 2-3 ribs celery, chopped 3-4 carrots, chopped 1 tbsp. dried marjoram 1 tsp. dried thyme 1 tbsp. ground sage 2-3 tbsp. parsley, minced salt & pepper to taste Preparation: Wash the chicken thoroughly. Quarter the chicken. If available, wash the gizzards, neck, and back also. Put all the chicken parts in a stock pot large enough to hold all the chicken with an additional two or three inches to spare. Fill the pot with enough water to cover the chicken plus an additional inch. Add a bay leaf or two. Bring the liquid to a low, gentle simmer. Do not boil. Simmer covered for at least an hour. A little more is OK, but not less than an hour. If it forms, remove any foam from the surface with a slotted spoon.

Recipe

Ingredients:

Submitted by Carmen Basile

Preparation: In a pan, sauté onions in 1 tbsp. of butter until translucent. Add the water, broth, potatoes, celery and cook, covered, until very tender. Do not drain. Press half of mixture through a sieve and return to pan. Mix sour cream with flour and whisk into milk until smooth. Add to soup with remaining butter, and cook stirring constantly, until thickened. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Serves 6.

Allow to cool. Remove all the meat and discard all the bones, gizzards and skin. Pour the liquid through a sieve to make sure there are no small bones remaining. Add the meat back to the liquid. Add all the vegetables and the herbs, the remaining bay leaf, and salt and pepper to taste. Simmer again for 20 minutes. Taste for flavor and correct if necessary. giggle

magazine • oct/nov 2011

giving children forever families Adoption Awareness Month

BY LINDSAY TAULBEE

hen Katie Islam and her husband, Jeff, brought their newly-adopted daughter home from China in October 2008, the infant was very ill with a heart defect requiring open heart surgery. “To see the child that she is today, that brings me real joy,” says the Williston mother of two. Now, as Jade prepares for a 4th birthday and ballet classes, her laugh is one of Islam’s favorite sounds. “It gets me every time,” she says.

The Islams’ story is one of many. November is National Adoption Month, and across the country organizations will celebrate the families who have been touched by adoption in different ways. Locally, several events will aim to raise awareness and offer information to those contemplating adoption.

At first glance, it can seem overwhelming – where do you even begin? “You really want to do your homework,” says Geralyn Ryan, director of adoptions at Catholic Charities in Gainesville. She recommends taking advantage of the many resources available – yes, the Internet, but also books, magazines, and other families who can share their experiences, support, and what has worked for them. “It’s creating a toolbox for adoption,” she says.

Cost is another concern and can vary dramatically. Adopting through the state can cost little to nothing. Using an agency or lawyer can range from a few thousand dollars to $50,000 or more, depending on variables like agency and legal fees, visas and travel for international adoption, or the birth mother’s medical expenses for domestic adoption. And while international adoption is often perceived as more expensive, the gap is closing, Ryan says.

Islam is vice president of the North Central Florida FCC (Families with Children from China), a support group of about 40 families who have adopted from China and other Asian countries. They are not alone. According to the U.S. Department of State, Americans adopted 11,058 children from abroad in 2010, with China, Ethiopia and Russia topping the list.

For example, children can be confronted with insensitive language, whether from TV, a tabloid at the supermarket checkout line, or well-meaning but hurtful comments about their situation.

"where do you begin?"

The Islams have also adopted domestically; they welcomed son Jackson, now 5, in 2006. Having done both, she says one is not necessarily better than the other, and each has pros and cons. According to Jenn Petion, Community & Government Relations manager at Partnership for Strong Families (PSF), the first step for families interested in fostering or adopting is to complete Model Approach to Parenting (MAPP) classes. MAPP classes assist with understanding the background of the children in care, training in discipline strategies, and they provide support for those entering the pre-adoption process. Legally, adoptions can be completed through the state, a licensed agency, or an attorney, typically requiring training courses, a thorough home study, and extensive background checks. “It’s a very labor-intensive process. You have to be prepared to open yourself up to someone who’s going to ask you a lot of questions,” Islam says. Though a criminal record of child neglect or abuse is a red flag, other factors are usually considered on a caseby-case basis. Unmarried individuals are eligible to adopt, as are people who are disabled. Last year, Florida’s gay adoption ban was ruled unconstitutional. “You do not have to be rich to adopt, or live in a big house,” says Jennifer Anchors, executive director of the Mid-Florida Division of the Children’s Home Society. The organization facilitates public adoptions through the state’s foster care program. The Mid-Florida Division has placed more than 200 children in permanent homes over the last year, Anchors says.

52 giggle magazine

Financial assistance is available, however, in the form of tax credits, as well as grants and loans offered by some organizations. For those who adopt through the state, the child is covered under Medicaid until they turn 18, and college expenses are paid for in the state of Florida. Whether prospective parents adopt domestically or internationally, publicly or privately, raising an adopted child calls for what Ryan terms an “extra layer of parenting.” “They need to be aware of a few more issues,” she says.

Petion says that PSF's support services are available to all adoptive families to assist with any challenges that the children or family may experience, even post-adoption. Suzanne Stapleton and her husband, Mike, adopted their two sons, Nate, 8, and Ben, 5, both at birth. Stapleton says she and her family have been approached in public by people asking if the boys are “real” brothers. “So there’s a sense of ‘real,’ and then implied ‘fake’,” she says. In their experience, that’s just not the case. “Love is what makes a family,” she says. b

Upcoming Events Events are open to those who have already been touched by adoption, as well as those who want to learn more.

 Catholic Charities 2nd Annual Adoption

Celebration Dinner will be held November 6, 2011, at the Woman’s Club (2809 W University Ave, Gainesville), time to be determined. Contact Laurie Porter for more information: (352) 372-0294 ext 136 or lporter@catholiccharitiesgainesville.org.

 The Children’s Home Society Celebrate

Adoption! event will be held November 8, 2011, at Skate Station (3411 N Main St, Gainesville) from 5:30 to 7:30. The event is free and open to the public. Contact (352) 334-0955 for more information.

 Children’s Home Society upcoming adoption orientations in Gainesville will be held October 10, November 8 (at the Celebrate Adoption! event) and December 12. E-mail AdoptFloridaChildren@chsfl.org for more information.

heading p

Adoption One family's story... Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

rothers Christopher and Alexander are practically inseparable. The toddlers seem to have a secret language, and when one of them wakes from his nap, he can’t wait to roust the other. “They are like twins. They act like twins,” says Christy Conner, the boys’ mother. Christy and her husband, Keith, officially adopted Christopher in April of this year, and Alexander in August. “I’m glad they have each other, because that’s going to become increasingly more important, especially when they become school-age, and then in adolescence, and then later in life,” she says. In the beginning, Christy wasn’t even sure if she wanted kids. Keith already had two teenage sons from a previous marriage, and although Christy loved children, she says she was on the fence about having any of her own. They chose to become foster parents. Christopher

"you don't have to be rich

to adopt, or live in a big house..."

“We knew what we could give him, and we were just afraid that he wouldn’t get that somewhere else,” Keith says. That’s when they made the decision to adopt.

The Conner Family

Christopher was placed with them first. When they received the phone call, he was eight days old and in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. About a month later, they were contacted about another infant, this time a three-and-a-half month old. They weren’t necessarily planning to foster two children at once, but it looked like someone else might adopt Christopher, and they were already set up for an infant. Later that day, Alexander arrived. Christopher’s adoption didn’t come to pass, and now with two infants, the Conners were twice as busy. But they realized the thought of losing Christopher had scared them.

“It’s been such a spiritual process for us,” Christy says. “If you allow things to happen as they’re supposed to happen – and we have such conviction on that – then it will be easier for us when we’re talking to the boys later of, ‘this is where you were meant to be; this is the home that you were to be in; this would not have happened unless x, y, and z had happened.’...I have no doubt Christopher was supposed to be ours, and then Alex was supposed to be ours. I mean, I have no doubt,” she says. b

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Alexander

magazine • oct/nov 2011

health & wellness

cooties and colds! how to avoid both by ALLEN HAYNES

ooties have been running wild in schools for years, and they tend to lie mysteriously dormant until recess, when girls chase boys around the playground and vice versa. It is nearly impossible for children to avoid catching this imagined disease. I myself contracted it three times before learning about the cootie shot. If you are unaware of the cootie shot, it’s a brilliant remedy where one child uses her index finger to trace circles and dots on another’s arm, all while proclaiming “Circle, circle. Dot, dot. Now you’ve got the cootie shot.” If your child is unable to find a vaccinated friend to administer the shot, she can simply pass the cooties to another unsuspecting jungle-gym patron by touching him on the arm, shoulder, back or hand. Of course getting cooties from the opposite sex is twice as bad as getting them from the same sex, and may require an additional shot. So where did cooties come from? The word “cootie” comes from the Malay word “kutu,” meaning “lice.” According to Newsvine, Inc., a division of Msnbc Digital Network, the first recorded use of the word cootie was in World War One by American sailor Gunner Depew. He used cooties as an all-encompassing word in a letter referring to the different bugs and lice he encountered in the trenches of battle.

Other than cooties, what illnesses should I look out for this school year? According to the Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, the most common illnesses for school-aged children are upper respiratory infections like colds and the flu.

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In fact, Influenza causes more hospitalizations among children under 5 than any other vaccine-preventable disease, which is why the CDC recommends yearly flu vaccinations for everyone 6 months and older. Although they are not as common as colds or the flu, head lice, ringworm, hand-foot-mouth disease, fifth disease and pink eye are highly contagious visitors to children during the school year. If your child is scratching his head frequently or thinks his hair is crawling, it’s possible he could have head lice. The CDC recommends treating lice with either a prescription or over-the-counter medicated shampoo kit. Ringworm, on the other hand, is a fungus-caused skin infection that can affect several parts of the body including the scalp, arms, feet and even nails. A physician should be consulted for treatment options. Hand-foot-and-mouth disease (HFMD), like ringworm, causes rashes on the body. It usually takes 3-7 days between infection and the onset of symptoms. HFMD usually begins with a fever, lack of appetite and a vague unwell feeling. Sores typically develop in the mouth one or two days after the fever onset. Children may also develop a rash and small blisters on the palms of the hand, bottom of the feet and diaper area. There is no specific treatment for HFMD, but the CDC recommends drinking plenty of fluids. HFMD typically lasts about seven days. If your child doesn’t improve over the week, consult your physician. Sometimes called, “slapped-cheek” disease due to the red rashes that form on the face, fifth disease is a mild rash that affects the face, torso and limbs. Fifth disease is tricky, because it is only contagious during the stage before the rash is visible. By the

No one is quite sure when cooties started taking over school playgrounds, but we can all sleep easier knowing the cootie shot antidote is readily available for all who need it.

About 20,000 children under the age of 5 are hospitalized every year because of flu-related symptoms, according to The Center for Disease Control (CDC).

time the rash appears, your child is probably no longer contagious and can return to school. Fifth disease is usually not very serious and resolves itself in about a week. If your child’s eye is red, itchy and producing a watery discharge that can’t be cleared up with over-the-counter eye drops, she probably has pink eye. In some cases pink eye has caused cornea damage, so if you think your child has pink eye, consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment. If your child catches any of these illnesses during the school year, it’s best to keep him home until he is no longer contagious.

giggle

tips!

OTHER HELPFUL

tips

The best way your child can avoid catching anything other than cooties is to follow these simple steps. A Hand Washing: Encourage your child to wash his hands before eating and after using the restroom or playing outside. Have him use soap and run his hands under warm water for about 15 to 20 seconds, or about as long as it takes him to sing the ABCs. A Use Hand Sanitizer: Give your child a small bottle of alcohol-based hand sanitizer to keep in her desk. Communal classroom objects like a computer mouse or pencil sharpener carry everyone’s germs. Applying about a dime-size amount of sanitizer after using communal objects could prevent unwanted sniffles. A Cover Up: Teach your child how to properly sneeze or cough into the nook of his elbow. Sneezing or coughing into cupped hands is not a good idea, but if he does, remind him to use his hand sanitizer after. A If They’re Sick, Keep Them Home: If your child does get sick, keep her home until she recovers. Give her plenty of fluids and rest and she’ll be back at school in no time.

ALWAYS consult your physician for a proper diagnosis, medical advice and treatment.

giggle dollars

grocery store and use it as a guide for that week’s meals. ConfidentMom.com offers a great menu planner - it’s got space for a week of meals plus your grocery list!

By TAMARA HERCHEL

he assignment came in on a Sunday. My mission? To go from Coupon Clueless to Coupon Queen! I gathered my arsenal - newspaper, clippers, cookbooks, pen and paper. Recipes selected, shopping list made, now to clip the corresponding coupons…this is where things started to go downhill. Nothing I needed was on sale! Who’d have thought it?! This coupon business isn’t effective at all!

I threw the sales inserts aside, and off to the store I went, tossing my items into the cart. At the end, I may have saved $1.99 on a BOGO item - on an $87.94 bill. My mission failed. Perplexed, I reviewed my methods, referred to the most notable coupon sites, and surveyed friends and family on new approaches. I uncovered many secrets to couponing, and learned that successful couponers are diligent. They plan. They're willing to wait it out for ultimate savings. But there is hope even for beginners. Here are my top tips for coupon newbies:

The Internet is your couponing guru. The best sites to try? SmartSource.com and RedPlum.com are the online counterparts to the two most popular Sunday newspaper inserts. Sort coupons by zip code, select the ones you want to print and you’re set. KrazyCouponLady.com is another great resource, offering printable coupons, a 10-Day Beginner’s Challenge, and a breakdown of that week’s best deals. For sites related to regional sales, IHeartPublix.com and SouthernSavers.com are the preferred sites. Other online resources? Check out the websites for products your family uses most - many manufacturers will offer printable coupons and email updates for additional savings.

Re-evaluate your menu planning. The biggest flaw in my approach was planning my menus for the week before checking out that week’s advertisements. Review the weekly sales for your

Stocking Coupons takes TIME. Don’t expect to slash your bill dramatically during your first few shopping trips. Even with all the available resources - newspaper inserts, printable coupons, and more building your supply of coupons will require diligence and patience. Streamline your coupon clipping by adopting an organizational style - some favorites include an accordion file or a coupon binder.

Understand your store’s coupon policy. Each store adopts their own coupon policy. Some will accept coupons from select competitors; others accept all coupons no matter their source. Many will price-match with appropriate documentation; some stores will even double coupons up to a certain amount. Also try to take advantage of the store’s specific rewards programs, particularly the baby and pet programs, and UPromise if you’re saving for college. All of these are a great added value to your shopping trips.

how do they

do it?

"Planning and shopping for your family is an act of love, and shouldn't be an additional source of stress..."

Aim for an attainable savings goal. As a beginner it’s important to set yourself up for success, and that may mean a 10% savings on your current grocery bill. You will get savvier with each shopping trip, and little victories will be just the motivation you need to stick with it!

Pick up a few speed-couponing techniques. Think you’re too busy to coupon? Check out sites like TheGroceryGame.com, which streamlines couponing by listing that week’s sales and matching in-store and manufacturer’s coupons for the ultimate discount. And lastly, if you lack a coupon for an item on your shopping list, a quick online search may yield a printable coupon for instant savings.

Have fun! Couponing should be an enjoyable experience! If you’re getting frustrated, then reevaluate your approach and maybe even take some time off. Planning and shopping for your family is an act of love, and shouldn’t be an additional source of stress in your already busy schedule. The best thing you can save is your sanity! b

giggle

magazine • oct/nov 2011

OUR SERVICES

tio men in

is ad n th eive c & re

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all kidding aside

Retired elementary school counselor, Wendy Joysen, answers tough questions about kids, schools, parenting, & everything in between.

am the owner of a 13-year-old Labrador who is a very large part of our family. My son is especially close with her and I am worried that with her age, she may not be with our family much longer. I am very worried about having to explain this to my son. What is the best way to tell a child about the death of a family pet?

The loss of a pet can be a devastating event for not only your children but for the entire family. In today's society, pets are more than just an animal to take care of. They are friends, companions, confidants and a large part of the family. No wonder it's so hard to say good-bye. Depending on the situation of your loss, be it illness, old age or an accident, learning about the loss of their pet can be one of the most difficult things your children may have heard in their young lives.

When dealing with the unexpected loss of your dog, telling your son in a quiet place and when you have the opportunity to talk one-on-one with him is important. Do not be afraid to show your grief as well. Allow your son to see how important it is to talk about losing a loved one and that is it ok to be sad and to cry. Talk about your good memories with your dog and share your favorite stories. These simple forms of expression can help the grief process tremendously.

dealing with the

death of a pet

It is important that you are open and honest with your son. You know your son better than anyone else and you should gauge how much information you choose to share with him based on his age and maturity. This may be the first experience he has with death so it is important to explain the process of aging and death. If you feel you need help explaining these topics, there are excellent books that can help you explain the process of life in a way that children can understand. There are also books that specifically help explain the death of a pet.

60 giggle magazine

Talking about your dog often will help too. Share your feelings with your son and explain that although you are grieving now, your sadness will ease with time. Happy memories of good times with your dog will always remain. When the time is right, you may even have a new dog join your family. Just remember: your new dog will not be a replacement, but a new addition to the family that will also bring you great joy and happy new memories. b

Books to read: “The Tenth Good Thing About Barney” by: Judith Viorst “The Fall of Freddy the Leaf” by: Leo Buscaglia “I Remember” by: Jennifer Moore-Mallinos

If you are dealing with a dog that is sick and euthanasia is being considered, explain to your son that sometimes there is no more that anyone else can do to help make your dog feel better and that you all hate to see your dog in so much pain. Explain that veterinarians have medicine they can give to your dog that will take away the pain and your dog will quietly stop breathing and pass away. Be direct and straightforward with your explanation but do not feel it is necessary to elaborate unless your son asks questions. Using words like "death" and "dying" are ok. However, using the phrase "putting your dog to sleep" is something you should avoid. Young children tend to take this phase literally and may fear going to sleep themselves or believe that the dog will eventually wake up.

After the loss of your dog, there are many ways you can remember your dog. If you plan on burial or cremation, plan a ceremony or memorial for your dog. You can choose to bury her with her collar or favorite toy or keep those mementos for yourself. You can share special memories by creating a scrapbook of drawings from your son or a photo album of fun times you were able to share with your dog and your family.

giggle

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ aug/sept 2011

Conception toCollege

a expecting Packing Your Labor & Delivery Bag

page 64

a infant/toddler What Are Night Terrors? page 66

expecting • babies • toddlers • tweens • teens

a early years House Rules page 68

a tweens Scary Movies and Kids

page 70

a teens Getting Ready For College Part I

page 72

expecting

packing your labor & delivery bag! By dana kamp

ou don’t know if your little one will be making his appearance at 41 weeks or 37 weeks, after 20 hours of labor or two hours (fingers crossed), but you do know you want an overnight bag with all your necessities ready to go! Take your time and pack early, using our list as a guide, so you feel confident that you have everything you will need for a smooth-as-possible labor and delivery. • insurance card and any preregistration paperwork • copy of your birth plan, if you made one • labor aids (lip balm, focus object, tennis ball for massaging your lower back, massage oil/lotion, sugar-free candies) • CD player/iPod/mp3 player • pillow &/or blanket from home to make your stay more comfortable • robe and slippers • hairbrush, headband and hair tie • toiletries (shampoo, toothbrush and toothpaste, body wash, deodorant, makeup) • eyeglasses/contacts • comfortable nightgown or pj’s (appropriate for visitors to see) and warm socks • nursing bras and nursing pillow if you plan to breastfeed • cell phone and phone charger • camera/video camera and batteries &/or charger • going-home outfit (non-clingy maternity wear is best) • bottle of champagne or sparkling cider for celebrating the baby’s arrival

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• outfit &/or special blanket for hospital photos • baby book for recording birth day moments and preserving baby’s first footprints • going-home outfit (size preemie or newborn fits better than 0-3 months) • pacifier, if desired • infant car seat

giggle

mommies'

extras

The hospital will provide:

• disposable panties (don’t laugh-these things are amazing!) • gown to wear during labor/delivery • snacks for Mama after delivery • maxi pads for post-delivery • diapers, cap and swaddling blanket for baby

Don't forget Daddy!

• change of clothes and sleepwear for several days • attaché case with toiletries • house shoes or flip flops • laptop, playing cards, video game player, or a book-entertainment for down time if/when Mommy doesn’t need your help • cell phone and charger • favorite snacks • patience, positive attitude and readiness to assist the mama-to-be b

• Taryn, mommy of Xavier, brought Gownies with her to the hospital. They are cute labor and delivery gowns that snap up the back and have snaps along the front for easy access during breastfeeding. • Dede, mama of Braeden and Logan, took

peppermint essential oil to the hospital and

sprinkled it on her pillow. Breathing in the scent of the oil helped her relax between contractions. • Kaci, mommy of Briggs, was so glad she brought

change for the vending machine so

her hubby could grab a late-night snack without leaving the hospital. She also took home extra hospital panties for postpartum healing and comfort.

a From conception to college

Must-haves for Mama:

Bring along for Baby:

infant/toddler | Ages 0-3

What Are

Night Terrors? Most parents have comforted their child after the occasional nightmare. But if your child has ever experienced what's known as a night terror (or sleep terror), his or her fear was likely inconsolable, no matter what you tried. A night terror is a sleep disruption that seems similar to a nightmare, but with a far more dramatic presentation. Though night terrors can be alarming for parents who witness them, they're not usually cause for concern or a sign of a deeper medical issue. During a typical night, sleep occurs in several stages. Each is associated with particular brain activity, and it's during the rapid eye movement (REM) stage that most dreaming occurs. Night terrors happen during deep non-REM sleep. Unlike nightmares (which occur during REM sleep), a night terror is not technically a dream, but more like a sudden reaction of fear that happens during the transition from one sleep phase to another. Night terrors usually occur about 2 or 3 hours after a child falls asleep, when sleep transitions from the deepest stage of non-REM sleep to lighter REM sleep, a stage where dreams occur. Usually this transition is a smooth one. But rarely, a child becomes agitated and frightened — and that fear reaction is a night terror.

Unlike nightmares, which kids often remember, kids won't have any memory of a night terror the next day because they were in deep sleep when it happened — and there are no mental images to recall.

What Causes Night Terrors?

Night terrors are caused by over-arousal of the central nervous system (CNS) during sleep. This may happen because the CNS (which regulates sleep and waking brain activity) is still maturing. Some kids may inherit a tendency for this over-arousal — about 80% who have night terrors have a family member who also experienced them or sleepwalking (a similar type of sleep disturbance).

66 giggle magazine

Night terrors are relatively rare — they happen in only 3-6% of kids, while almost every child will have a nightmare occasionally. Night terrors usually occur between the ages of 4 and 12, but have been reported in kids as young as 18 months. They seem to be a little more common among boys. A child might have a single night terror or several before they cease altogether. Most of the time, night terrors simply disappear on their own as the nervous system matures.

Coping With Night Terrors

Night terrors can be very upsetting for parents, who might feel helpless at not being able to comfort or soothe their child. The best way to handle a night terror is to wait it out patiently and make sure the child doesn't get hurt by thrashing around. Kids usually will settle down and return to sleep on their own in a few minutes. It's best not to try to wake kids during a night terror. Attempts usually don't work, and kids who do wake are likely to be disoriented and confused, and may take longer to settle down and go back to sleep.

There's no treatment for night terrors, but you can help prevent them. Try to:

mommy

tips

• reduce your child's stress • establish and stick to a bedtime routine that's simple and relaxing • make sure your child gets enough rest • prevent your child from becoming overtired by staying up too late

Understanding night terrors can reduce your worry — and help you get a good night's sleep yourself. But if night terrors happen repeatedly, talk to your doctor about whether a referral to a sleep specialist is needed. b Reviewed by: D'Arcy Lyness, PhD Date reviewed: October 2010 © 1995- 2011 . The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®. Reprinted with permission.

a From conception to college a From conception to college

During a night terror, a child might suddenly sit upright in bed and shout out or scream in distress. The child's breathing and heartbeat might be faster; he or she might sweat, thrash around, and act upset and scared. After a few minutes, or sometimes longer, a child simply calms down and returns to sleep.

Night terrors have been noted in kids who are: • overtired or ill, stressed, or fatigued • taking a new medication • sleeping in a new environment or away from home

early years | Ages 3-7

house rules After you arrive home from the hospital with a newborn, the last thing you are probably worried about is establishing a set of house rules. However, it is not too early for you and Daddy-to-be to start brainstorming what kind of rules you want to set in place for your family before the new baby comes. Your family rules may evolve as you become a more experienced parent and when siblings come along. If you didn’t have time to fit this in while you were pregnant, it’s not too late. Here are a few tips to consider when coming up with your family rules.

1The rules:

A more appropriate name for house rules may be family rules because these rules should guide a family’s behavior no matter where they are. The rules let all members of the family know what is expected of them. You can make the rules cover just about as much or as little as you want. Outlining your family rules is putting your family values into action. Perhaps one of the best things about family rules is that they apply to everyone in the family, not just the little people.

2Involve the children:

keep it

Too many rules may be hard for your children (and you) to remember. Of course, you can also include a few fun rules, like if your children, or Dad, want to eat a donut for breakfast, they have to drink a tall glass of milk first!

simple! 68 giggle magazine

them 3Keep simple:

Consequences for breaking the rules:

The consequences (as well as rewards) can be linked to the rules. Older children can even help determine appropriate consequences when someone breaks the rules.

5Post the rules:

You can simply type them up and post them around the house. But, you can make this a family affair! Have the kids write them in their own handwriting and put them in a frame. You can even ask them where they want to hang them on the wall. Another fun idea is to pick a wall somewhere in your house to paint with chalkboard paint. Use chalk to write out the rules.

6Tell people about your rules:

Discuss your rules with babysitters and caregivers and make sure the children know that you did. b

Here are some ideas to get you started: • Always tell the truth • Be kind and show respect to everyone • Encourage and support your brothers and sisters • Turn the TV off during meals • Always be thankful and show your appreciation • When the doorbell rings, all children sit on the couch; only adults answer the door • Put things back where they belong • Do what is asked, the first time it is asked of you

a From conception to college a From conception to college

When it’s time to discuss the rules with your children, it is important to make it clear that the family rules apply inside the house as well as when they go to their friends’ houses, school, the grocery store, church and anywhere else they may go! Your children represent your entire family wherever they go and they should always remember their rules. Don’t forget to discuss examples of behavior that is acceptable and what is not for each rule.

tweens

| Ages 8-12

"there's a monster in my room!" It’s difficult for young children to distinguish between reality and fantasy. It is common for them to believe a monster lives in their closet, under their bed or somewhere in their room.

Here are some tips to chase those monsters away:

Scary Movies + Kids:

Deciding What's OK and What's Not By allen haynes

As Halloween approaches your kids will likely want to watch the many scary movies that are on TV. Now, it’s pretty obvious that watching "It’s the Great Pumpkin," Charlie Brown is OK for your 8-year-old and "Saw" is not, but there’s an extensive gray area in determining age-appropriate thrills for your young ones.

Exactly what is scary?

Movies with sudden, unexpected noises, hair-raising sounds and eerie music can frighten both younger and older children regardless of their emotional development. According to the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP), kids ages 2-7 are scared more by creatures, and older kids, ages 8-12, are scared more by suspenseful situations that lead to threats of impending doom and fatalities.

Movies with intense images, loud noises and blood-and-gore scenes, can create long-lasting emotional side effects. These effects include fear and anxiety of situations similar to scenes in the movies. Short-term effects include nightmares, clinginess and even nausea.

•Acknowledge their fear. Tell your kids you know they’re scared, and reassure them that no one is going to hurt them. Avoid telling them nothing is wrong or leaving them alone. Explaining the monster is not real usually doesn’t work. •Limit bedtime excitement. Excessive TV watching before bed can excite your child’s imagination, and an active imagination at bedtime can lead to thinking about scary situations, including monsters. •A consistent bedtime is key. Children are all about routines. Breaking bedtime routines can result in restlessness, nightmares and being overtired the following day. •Let them control the monsters. Whether it’s leaving the lights on or sleeping with their favorite toy, most kids have an idea of what will keep the monsters away. Embrace their ideas. It gives them a sense of control over their fears, while encouraging creativity.

• Watch it first. If you have a digital video recorder (DVR) connected to your cable, you can easily monitor TV programming by watching it first. This way you can decide if it is appropriate for your child ahead of time. If you don’t have a DVR, you can always rent the movie.

• Reassure when necessary. Scary movies become a big part of slumber parties and movie outings for tweens, especially around Halloween. Your child may not be emotionally ready to handle that new monster movie her friends want to see, and is too embarrassed to say so. Let your children know it’s OK to be afraid, and encourage them to tell their friends when they’d rather watch something other than zombie invasions.

• If it scares you, it will scare them. Research suggests kids are more likely to be scared if they see you frightened by something in a movie or on TV. So, if it scares you, it’s probably a good idea to avoid letting them see it.

• Bring out the classics. Try introducing your kids to the scary movies you watched when you were their age. This allows you to bond with your children, while reminiscing about your first frights. b

What can you do?

giggle magazine

aaFrom college Fromconception conception toto college

Why does it matter what they watch?

• Consider the style of thriller. Some kids in the tween ages like being scared and can handle more suspenseful thrills. You should still watch out for blood and gore, but generally monsters, ghosts, skeletons and aliens are OK for them. It’s still a good idea to stick to those movies with happy endings, but the older the kid, the less likely there will be lasting effects.

teens

| Ages 13-18

Getting Ready

For College Part One BY KELSEY McNIEL

College Calendar: A season-by-season plan of what to do, when

 Juniors Fall: • Take the PSAT in October: Free practice tests are available on the College Board website or through your school guidance counselor. The PSAT can get the attention of certain colleges, and a good score can earn you National Merit status, which means lots of scholarship dough.

Winter: • Get ready for the SAT: First, take a few practice tests – which can be found on the College Board web site - to figure out where your weaknesses lie. Next, get a study guide, assemble a group of friends to cram together or enroll in a tutoring course. • Schedule SAT test date: Consult your guidance counselor for test dates and fees. Spring: • Take the SAT: There’s the main reasoning test, which most institutions will want to see a score from, then the various subject tests. Some colleges require a score on certain subject tests for admission. • Visit local colleges and narrow down your list.

72 giggle magazine

• Consider getting a summer job to pay for application fees and/or college tour costs. • Spend time doing community service. • Research scholarship opportunities: See your guidance counselor or the College Board web site for a long list of scholarship sources. Many can be applied to online, and while most are merit-based, some are given out to students with certain career aspirations, for being affiliated with various groups, ethnicities or religions, or for community work.

 Seniors Fall: • Make a final list of colleges you’re applying to (five to eight is a good number), and make a master calendar of all of their deadlines (including those for financial aid). • Request recommendation letters from teachers. • Get transcripts from your school. • Finalize resume details. • Continue searching and applying for scholarships. • Apply to early decision, rolling admission or early admission deadlines.

Winter: • Apply, apply, apply! (Most regular decision applications are due between Jan. 1 and Feb. 15.) • Fill out your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). • Keep searching and applying for scholarships. Spring: • Sift through acceptance letters and make a decision. • Finalize all details for the scholarships you’ve received.

admission vocabulary 101 From those SAT flash cards sprouting around the house to the increasing amounts of college literature appearing in the mail each day, it’s easy to get a little confused about what it all means. And while deciding which bubble to shade or where to go is ultimately up to your teen, helping them understand the technical terms of application deadlines can be an important role for dear ol’ mom or dad. Continued on page 75

Fromconception conception toto college aaFrom college

• Start your college search: There are hundreds of options, so start by narrowing down schools based on financial feasibility, where the school is located, whether you have a shot at getting in and if there are specific programs, majors or professors that fit your goals. Once you’ve got a list of 10 to 20, take them to the chopping block by looking at the size of the school, extracurricular opportunities and the town or city it’s located in.

Summer: • Request applications from colleges.

Continued from page 72

Regular Admission: Nearly every school has an application deadline that is considered regular admission. Decisions for this deadline are usually announced by April. For this and all deadlines, it’s important to note whether the paperwork must be postmarked (sent in) or received (reached the school) by that date. Rolling Admission: This is more like first come, first served. While applicants must still meet certain criteria to be accepted, schools with rolling admissions accept qualified applicants as they receive their information. If your child has a top choice school with a rolling admission, encourage them to apply as soon as they are able. Early Decision: Some schools may have multiple deadlines, allowing students to apply when it is right for them. Early decision deadlines require a student to submit their application early, but also commit to attending that school if accepted. Students are encouraged to only apply to one school for early decision and make sure before applying that that is

Pick up the next issue of giggle magazine for Part 2!

the right institution for them financially, academically and geographically. Early decision acceptances are often announced before regular admission deadlines. Early Action: Early action deadlines also allow students to submit applications early and hear back sooner, but they do not require students to commit to attending. While only offered by some schools, early action is a good option for a school that may be a students’ first choice, but may not be financially feasible without scholarships, grants or loans. b

giggle

magazine â&#x20AC;˘ aug/sept 2011

Calendar of Events october National Breast Cancer Awareness Month September 30 – October 31

Newberry Cornfield Maze at Hodge Farm

Friday and Saturday nights: 3 – 11 pm/ Sundays: 2 – 5 pm SR 26 and SW 202nd St in Newberry (On Newberry Road) in Jonesville, FL (352) 316-4859 www.newberrycornfieldmaze.com October 1-30

Trinity UMC Pumpkin Patch Sunday-Friday: noon – 8 pm Saturday: 10 am – 8 pm Trinity United Methodist Church (352) 376-6615 www.trinitygnv.org October 2

HOPE’s Horsin Around Festival 2 – 6 pm/Free HOPE Farm (352) 495-0533 www.horseshelpingpeople.org October 8

Family Literacy Festival

10 am - noon/FREE Alachua County Headquarters Library & The Matheson Museum www.aclib.us October 15

Newberry Fall Market Festival 9 am – 4 pm/FREE Main Street, Newberry FL www.newberrymainstreet.org October 15

Screaming for Safety

5 – 8 pm/FREE Kiwanis Safety City in Gainesville

October 16

October 22 - 23

Title Town Hoedown

Butterflyfest

4—8 pm Bar-b-que showdown benefiting the Early Learning Coalition Rembert Farm, Alachua www.elcalachua.org October 21

FREE All ages can participate in fun and educational activities Florida Museum of Natural History (352) 846-2000 www.flmnh.ufl.edu/butterflyfest

Haile Village Oktoberfest

October 23

October 22

Donations for the March of Dimes 3 – 6 pm Carnival games, bounces houses, rock climbing and more (352) 331-8773 suncountrysports. com/halloween.html

Sun Country Sunny’s HowlA-Palooza

Food, festivities and more. FREE FHaile Village Center, Gainesville

O2BKids Spooktacular

6 – 10 pm/FREE for members, $15 for non-members A most Spooktakular Halloween party for kids and families. Supercenter (Newberry Road) www.o2bkids.com October 22

Noche de Gala

7 pm - midnight The Sebastian Ferrero Foundation's annual fundraising event. Besilu Collection, Micanopy www.nochedegala.org October 22 - 26

Friends of the Library Fall Book Sale

Check the website for hours of operation Semi-annual book sale open to the public. 430-B North Main Street, Gainesville, Florida 32601 (352) 375-1676 www.folacld.org October 27

Giggle Magazine Thirty One Sale Fundraiser for the March of Dimes 6-9 pm Everyone is Welcome! The Plantation Hall, Haile Village www.gigglemag.com 352-505-5821

October 27

Ghouls, Goblins and Greeks

5 – 8 pm / FREE Come join the ladies of the Greek community at the University of Florida for a night of Halloween Fun! Sorority Row, Gainesville October 29

Lubee Bat Festival

10 am - 4 pm / FREE Educational event for families and folks of all ages Lubee Bat Conservancy www.lubee.org October 30

National Candy Corn Day October 30

Trinity UMC Pumpkin Harvest 5:30 - 8:30 pm/FREE Trinity United Methodist Church (352) 376-6615 www.trinitygnv.org October 31

Happy Halloween!

Over 1,000 listings for kids’

activities around Alachua County

heading

80 giggle magazine

Calendar of Events Nov. 18 and 25: 5:30 pm - 10:00 pm/ FREE A family-friendly community event featuring face painting, bounce houses, arts and crafts and more. Downtown Gainesville Plaza www.unitedwayncfl.org

October 31

Boo at the Zoo

3 - 7:30 pm/FREE Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo www.sfcollege.edu/zoo October 31

Trick- or-Treat on Main Street in Alachua

November 6

Daylight Savings Time ends

7 – 9 pm/FREE Main Street, Alachua, FL

November 11

Veterans Day

November

November 12 - 13

Downtown Festival and Art Show

National Adoption Awareness Month November 3

Starry Night

6 – 10 pm/FREE See the night sky closer than ever before and explore the world beyond! View a portable planetarium show or a moonscape in 3-D! Florida Museum of Natural History (352) 273-2063 www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/events.html November 3

Gainesville Gone Nashville

6-10pm Signature fundraiser for the Child Advocacy Center Live music, silent auction and BBQ. Canterbury Equestrian Showplace (352) 376-9161 www.gainesvillegonenashville.com

UF Homecoming Parade

Noon/FREE UF’s 88th Annual Homecoming Parade www.gatorgrowl.org

United Downtown Nov. 4: 1:30 – 5:30 pm

November 18

Trashformations Exhibit

5:30 – 8:00 pm / FREE See middle school, high school and college students transform 'waste' into recycled art at the 12th annual Trashformations! Florida Museum of Natural History (352) 374-5213 www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/events.htm

November 26 – December 17

A Christmas Carol Hippodrome Theatre (352) 375-4477 www.thehipp.org

DECEMBER December 1 - 4

Just Between Friends Sale

Come participate in North Central Florida's largest and most unique place to bargain shop. The 2011 Fall/Winter sale will be held in the former Sticks N Stuff location, on the corner of NW 23rd and 13th Street. www.gainesville.jbfsale.com December 2

2nd Annual Reindeer Run 5K

Haile Plantation Village Center www.sweatlifefitness.com for more information All proceeds donated to Girls on the Run and Sebastian Ferrero Foundation. Haile Plantation Village Center www.sweatlifefitness.com

October

November 24

Happy Thanksgiving! November 25 – December 18

November 4

November 4, 18 and 25

10 am – 5 pm / FREE Children can be immersed in a world of art and creativity as they visit the "Imagination Station," discovering their own artistic talents, creating sidewalk chalk murals, book-making, or mask designs. Downtown Gainesville www.gvlculturalaffairs.org

November 25 – December 21

This Wonderful Life

A Christmas Story

November

Wednesday - Saturday at 8 pm, Sunday at 2 pm Explore the humorous side to family life in 1930s small town America. Gainesville Community Playhouse (352) 376-4949 www.gcplayhouse.org

Over 1,000 listings for kids’

To view a full gallery of all of our cuties, visit www.gigglemag.com

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activities around Alachua County giggle

magazine • aug/sept 2011

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82 giggle magazine