Giggle Magazine April/May 2010

AL ACHUA

COUNT Y’S

PREMIER

FAMILY

MAGAZINE

AN

NI

VE

RS

going

green issue

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

recycling technology green diy

projects

AR Y

®

TM

APRIL/MAY 2010 • Volume 2 • Issue 2

the rokoidms’s

Wags ta

ff

with dad

asummercamps

find the right one for your kids

create your own

butterfly garden

www.gigglemag.com

IS

SU

E

The right time to take the next step.

Prepare your child for school and for life.

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

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

CALL

NOW

AND ENROLL!

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

352-264-7724

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

www.kiddieacademy.com/gainesville

giggle

goes green giveaway Register to win

one of these great “green” products Just visit www.gigglemag.com, click on

“giggle goes green giveaway” and enter your name to win.

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

Giraffe Standard Market Totes & Giraffe Market Pack Sponsored by Neela Bags

Eco-friendly corn plates & Angel Baby Oil Sponsored by Miracles Maternity

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

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

irvingpublications 5745 SW 75th Street #286 Gainesville, FL 32608 p. 352.505.5821 f. 352.240.6499 www.gigglemag.com advertise@irvingpublications.com

Contest ends April 30, 2010.

Prize winners will be drawn at random from all entries on May 1, 2010. Winners will be contacted via e-mail/phone to claim prize. No purchase necessary.

Must live in Alachua County to win.

giggle magazine is registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. giggle magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2010

GL

AGAZINE E M AN

N

Y

G

Y

SAR

SAR

ER

ER

IV

1

I

IV

G

G

I

G

GL

E

MAGAZINE

AN

N

happy family • happy community

12

26

every month 8 Charity of the Month Locks of Love

20 In The Kitchen

Celebrate May-National Salad Month with these fresh spring salads

24 Local Lifesavers

Mommies: The Secrets to Getting the Right Gift on Mother’s Day

26 The Wagstaffs

TM

20

features

columns

12 Create

22 Legal Side of Things

Your Own Butterfly Garden

Informing families of the important legal issues that affect them

28 All Kidding Aside

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

17 Recycling Technology Don’t throw out that phone or iPod

19 Choosing the Right Summer Camp

After the Build

35 Giggle Dollars

The Right Insurance For Your Family

going

37 For Dads. By Dads.

green issue

Green DIY Projects With Dad

38 Why I love raising my family in Gainesville

The Thorpes share what they love about Gainesville

40 Giggle Trips

giggle magazine goes International!

E

REC

YC L E T H

IS ISS

UE • PLEA

S

Editor’s Note: The Giving Pets as Gifts story in our December/January issue was written

by Mary Reichardt

UE • PLEA

ISS

on the cover Butterfly Garden Recycling Technology Summer Camps The Wagstaffs

Green DIY Projects With Dad

12 17 19 26 37

al achua

count y’s

PREMIER

FaMIly

MaGaZInE

An

niv

er

going

green issue

happy family • happy community

sA

ry

is

su

e

®

TM

recycling technology green diy projects

APRIL/MAY 2010 • Volume 2 • Issue 2

the ds’ rokiom s

Wagst aff

with dad

asummercamps

find the right one for your kids

create your own

butterfly garden

www.gigglemag.com

Cover model, Savannah Photo courtesy of mikifoto

S

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

magazine • april/may 2010

3

E

REC

YC L E T H

IS

AGAZINE E M AN

N

Letter from the Publisher

Y

G

Y

SAR

SAR

ER

ER

IV

1

I

IV

G

GL

E

MAGAZINE

AN

N

S

pring is in the Air...

What says spring better than butterflies? I love watching the butterflies whisk over our fence and search for the perfect flower to nestle in.

After reading our feature on “How to Create Your Own Butterfly Garden,” we hope that you’ll be ready to welcome your own butterflies this spring.

We celebrate Earth Day on April 22. With new cell phones coming out daily, what do we do with the old one? In our “Recycling Technology” feature, we will tell you where you can drop off your old technology while keeping the Earth happy at the same time.

We are so excited about our piece on hometown celebrities, the Wagstaff family. This isn’t the first time the Wagstaffs have been on the pages of giggle (their music school Studio Percussion was highlighted in our October/November 2009 issue) and I bet it will not be the last time you see them here. Jill and Tobin open up and give us a look into what the “Extreme Makeover Home Edition” experience was really like. We also get a peak at the children’s adorable bedrooms, as photographed by Lifeprints by Shandon.

And of course, we can not forget Mother’s Day! Happy Mother’s Day to all you wonderful mothers. In honor of you, we have a wonderful giveaway. Register to win at www. gigglemag.com!

All of that informative and fun content is not the only thing giving us a giggle this spring. This issue marks another important milestone for which we’re particularly grateful.

This April, giggle magazine is celebrating its one year anniversary. We couldn’t be more thankful to the people in this wonderful community, who have so warmly welcomed us into their lives.

We have been blessed to work with so many wonderful people this year. Our writers and photographers outdo themselves each issue with great stories and photographs that bring our message to life. Each issue would not happen without the hard work of our editor Chris Wilson and designer Leslie Vega. From the beginning, they saw our vision and believed in it. And for that, we are truly thankful.

To the pleasure of all involved with giggle magazine, we were honored with a Gold ADDY Award for magazine design at this year’s ADDY AWARDS. The award has reinforced our commitment to our advertisers and we are so happy that our advertisers have trusted us to deliver their messages to the community.

Giggle magazine was created using a simple recipe.

We took our love of being parents and our commitment to this community and added style, quality and fun.

As we enter this new year, we will remain humbled by the new friends and wonderful opportunities that we have been privileged to enjoy this past year.

Thank you for making giggle magazine a part of your life.

aNicole Publisher

the cover shoot!

in other giggle

Meet

Savannah

Savannah was our dream cover girl. With sparkling eyes and a gorgeous smile, the camera just loved her, and so did we!

As any other “classic teen”, Savannah loves music, hanging out with friends, and just having fun. Savannah is currently a freshman at Buchholz High School where she plays on the lacrosse team!

4

giggle

Photo by mikifoto

news

we are proud to celebrate giggle magazine’s al ac hua

count y’s

PREMIER

Fa MIly

dd

MaGa ZInE

®

hap p y f ami l y • hap p y c o mmuni t y

f

deli ayd holid kies! cious

coo

TM

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!

www.gigglemag.com

Gold ADDY Award!

Our December/January issue won a Gold ADDY® Award for Magazine Design at the 2010 ADDY® Awards on February 12, 2010.

“Awarded by the American Advertising Federation, the ADDY® Awards are the nation’s largest advertising competition.”(www.adfedgainesville.com) Wish us luck as we compete at the District awards which are being held this April in Tampa.

Photo by Laurel Housden Photography

GL

G

I

G

Enroll today and receive

FREE Registration Stronger, healthier babies.

Kiddie Academy of Gainesville

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

Every day, we do all we can

352-264-7724

www.kiddieacademy.com/gainesville

6

giggle

Enroll today and receive

FREE Registration Stronger, healthier babies.

Kiddie Academy of Gainesville

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

Every day, we do all we can

352-264-7724

www.kiddieacademy.com/gainesville

CHARITY OF THE MONTH

BY BROOKE KELLY Photo by Lifeprints By Shandon

inches of Hilary Sheinbaum’s curly brown hair fell to the floor of a salon in Coral Glades.

“That was my third time donating to Locks of Love,” said Sheinbaum, a UF senior.

“It’s something you don’t have to think about. You get a haircut and you have such an impact on someone else’s life.”

Locks of Love is a nonprofit organization, based in West Palm Beach, FL, that collects donated hair at least 10 inches in length to make into hairpieces. According to the organization’s Web site, Locks of Love provides the hairpieces to financially disadvantaged children in the U.S. and Canada, all of whom are under age 18 and suffering from long-term medical hair loss from any diagnosis.

Lauren Kukkamaa, communications director for Locks of Love, said the organization was founded not after Madonna Coffman had suffered hair loss, but when her daughter had suffered from it, too.

“Her daughter motivated her to focus on children and it has led her to carry Locks of Love to where it is now,” Kukkamaa said.

A majority of the hairpieces that retail from $3,000-$6,000 go to boys and girls who suffer from alopecia, a skin disease that results in hair loss on the scalp and the rest of the body.

“I can’t even imagine going through that at such a young age,” Sheinbaum said.

Since hair loss affects children differently, children under age 6 receive synthetic hairpieces because their heads are still growing. Individuals from ages 6-21, with long-term hair loss, receive custom, vacuum-fir hairpieces.

8

giggle

“After a child applies for a hairpiece, it takes about four months to get it from the manufacturer. The hairpieces are custom — each child decides the color, size, length of their hairpiece,” Kukkamaa said.

The organization has had thousands of donations since it was founded in December 1997. Kukkamaa said the charity does not have the means to keep track of how many inches or feet of hair have been donated.

Since 2006, Sheinbaum has donated hair to Locks of Love three times, amounting to 31 inches.

“Getting a haircut is the most effortless thing to do, to do such a great thing,” Sheinbaum said.

Donors simply have to send in their donation with a donor form, which has their name and address. The donor form allows Locks of Love to send an acknowledgement to its donors.

Sheinbaum said she found out about Locks of Love during her sophomore year in high school, after her best friend donated 10 inches of her hair to the organization. “It was just inspiring to me,” she said.

Kukkamaa said Locks of Love is grateful for its male and female donors in and outside of Gainesville or to any prospective donors, and Sheinbaum urges anybody to give it a try.

“I would like to absolutely encourage anyone who is thinking about [donating hair] to do it. You might be a little shocked with short hair but change is good. It’s just special,” Sheinbaum said.

What many don’t see are the countless letters, e-mails and phone calls from families and children who have received hairpieces.

“The best part is after a child receives their hairpiece. They’re more self-confident, they feel secure and they get to do sports, swimming, slumber parties. They get to be a normal kid again,” Kukkamaa said.

a

Hairpiece recipients can reapply for a new hairpiece after 18 months. “[The hairpiece] can last longer and we will repair it, if possible,” said Kukkamaa. “But, at a certain point, their heads are still growing and they’ll need a new one.”

For more information on Locks of Love or to learn how you can get involved, visit www.locksoflove.org. The organization also accepts monetary donations.

Logo courtesy of Locks of Love

And with a snip, it was gone. Eleven

s Th e

tars of Toy S tor

yt

m

he

se

lve

Publisher of giggle Magazine had the pleasure of attending Toy Fair 2010 in New York

s

In February, I had the opportunity to attend “Toy Fair 2010” at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. Billed as the largest international toy fair in the Western hemisphere, Toy Fair is the place-to-be if you are in the “toy business” and want to showcase your newest and most sought-after toys, entertainment and children’s products. It is here that representatives, buyers, sellers and even schools come to check out what is new and hot for the upcoming year.

All I could say was, “WOW.” I had entered the “Toy Zone.”

There was a sea of toys, games, bikes, balls and dolls that stretched as far as the eye could see. There were classic LEGO pieces arranged in the perfect likeness of Buzz Lightyear and Woody from “Toy Story” and cake from Carols’ Bakery, from “Cake Boss” on TLC. I met Darryl Hannah, who is not just a stunning actress, but also the co-creator of the series of board games, including “Liebrary.” I got to play board games and act like one of the boys! I saw top secret LEGO pieces that I am sworn to secrecy not to mention. I can tell you that there are 250 new “Toy Story 3” toys coming out! Parents, be prepared, they are awesome!

aNicole Publisher

...Stay tuned for more Toy Fair picks throughout the year!

D na h H an

Gathering a Garden Board Game, by eeBoo (See pg 13) Soy art supplies, by Clementine Art Liebrary, by Discovery Bay Games ScareMeNot Dolls, by Innovative Toys

ole Irving w it h Nic

l ry ar

My favorite picks from Toy Fair 2010:

“Protector Patty” ScareMeNot Doll

Soy Art Supplies

making a

Butterfly garden

pull out the shovel...it’s spring!

W

hat better way to celebrate National Gardening Month (April) and welcome the spring time, than by creating a butterfly garden with the family. Butterflies are beautiful, dainty creatures that can capture curiosity for hours. So, why not grab a shovel and your children and prepare a beautiful butterfly garden of your own?

Some basic needs must be met for the garden to sustain butterflies. First, the garden must have the proper plants and flowers to attract and feed adult butterflies. Second, there must be the proper plants to attract female butterflies, who

1212 giggle

will lay the eggs and be able to feed the larvae. Butterflies are open to the elements, so they need shelter as protection from predators and harsh wind. And, even butterflies need a constant source of water, either with a fountain or damp sand.

gardening with the kids p According to an article entitled “Butterfly Garden Basics”

by University of Florida entomologist Jaret Daniels, Ph.D., “A well-planned butterfly garden becomes a small, but representative sample, of the surrounding habitat and as such provides a safe haven for butterflies and other wildlife to gather, seek shelter, acquire food and water, and reproduce.”

Not only will a butterfly garden add to the aesthetic value of your home, but it also can provide learning activities for your kids (think science project) or aid any budding artist with beautiful photo moments and painting subjects. And, after a long day, who would not want to relax and enjoy a lovely butterfly garden with their family and a few flying friends?

fun and

games in the garden

A few garden recommendations to attract lovely butterflies: Alfalfa……..Eastern Black Swallowtail Mint…….. Monarch Dandelion Red Admiral

Red Admiral Monarch

Swallowtail

Bring your garden inside with this eco-friendly board game by eeBoo, “Gathering A Garden.”

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Not only is it important to meet the basic needs of your butterfly garden, the design of the garden itself is important.

Some basic guidelines suggested in Daniels’ article include: • Use native plants, as they have specifically adapted themselves to your region.

• Use plants that have different heights and growth patterns. Different plants will attract a wide variety of butterflies and create separate breeding areas for them.

• Since different species of butterflies are attracted to different color flowers, it is a good idea to plant a wide range of color.

• Plant flowers both in the shade and full sun. This, too, will attract a number of different species of butterflies.

• When planting new flowers, don’t forget to water, water, water!

• If you can, AVOID pesticides. This will help in the keep butterflies happy and healthy longer.

Resources: “Butterfly Garden Basics,” by Jaret Daniels, Ph.D., (www.gardeningsolutions.ifas.ufl.edu) www.thegardenhelper.com Garden Butterflies of North America: A Gallery of Garden Butterflies & How to Attract Them (Paperback) by Rick Mikula National Gardening Association www.gardening.org Museum of Natural History, UF giggle

magazine • april/may 2010

13

p

heading

But, for the Jacksons, the foster process also has helped grow their family. When three of their foster children became adoptable after the birth parents had decided to put the children up for adoption, the Jacksons jumped at the opportunity. Now, the Jacksons have three adopted children of their own and another foster child living in their home.

Care Foster

hen Don and Julia Jackson’s only daughter passed away at an early age in 2001, the couple was distraught, devastated and left with an empty feeling. “We knew we had a house that was missing a child,” Julia said.

“We knew we could never replace the child. But, we also knew there were a lot of children out there who needed loving homes.” That’s why Don and Julia decided to get involved in foster care.

The Partnership for Strong Families is the lead agency for community-based care in Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Suwannee, Union, Baker, Madison and Taylor counties.

In Florida, there are 9,000 to 10,000 children each year who are not able to live at home because an adult in their family has abused or neglected them. Sometimes the children are newborns and sometimes they are teenagers. They are all races and nationalities.

“We went through all of the MAPP class, the background checks and all of the requirements that the Partnership has to become foster parents,” said Julia.

The Partnership for Strong Families also requires foster parents to work with birth families, have a steady income to provide for a family, stable housing and a set of required documentation. Foster parents receive a monthly board rate.

Medical care for the child is covered. There also is an available day care referral for working foster parents.

Children are sometimes in the foster home for a few days, months or even a year. The Jacksons have gotten requests to take in children at all times of the day and night. “When we’ve got room for a child, we take in that child,” Don said.

“We’ve had many children come and go.”

14 giggle

“We’ve had boys and girls, twins, from newborns to about age 14,” said Don. “Kids are so resilient. If they get what children need - a loving home, attention, nourishment and nurturing - they do fine.”

The Jacksons agree that they’ve had a positive experience through the help of their case workers in the Partnership for Strong Families.

People are helping children build brighter futures by serving as foster and adoptive parents.

For more information, call Partnership for Strong Families at 352-393-2740 or visit www.pfsf.org.

Photos by Kelsey Lynn photography

W

“If they get what children need a loving home, attention, nourishment and nurturing they do fine.”

giggle

magazine • oct/nov 2009

15

WE U S

green issue

E

LO WE

•

•

WE

If we love it and would use it, we stamp it.

V

E

IT

LO

Eco-friendlyMust-Haves!

5

IT.

WE U S

E

3

1

5

6

4 2

7

8

eco-friendly must haves 1. Composting made pretty and easy with the ceramic counter top compost container

E

IT.

WE U S

E

WE

•

LO

IT

V

(www.uncommongoods.com, $60.00) 2. Good for the earth, fun for kids, easy for parents, the Original Goodbyn lunch box is a crowd pleaser (www.goodbyn.com, $29.95) 3. Teaching how to take care of Mother Nature and our Earth has become a lot more fun with these Respect the Earth Flash cards (www.eeboo.com, $11.95) 4. Save a plastic tree with these eco-friendly and urban shopping totes. The Modern Tote and the Market Tote (www.neelabags.com) 5. Safe for your kids and kind the environment, Clementine Art products are a wonderful addition to any art set. (www.clementineart.com) 6. Simple and classic, this clear glass piggy bank with cork nose screams “fill me” (www.vivaterra.com, $39) 7. The “teething tree” is made out of Ohio Maple wood and great for playing and enhancing motor skills (www.littlealouette.com, $12.00) 8. Teach your kids all about composting and decomposition with “compost gin rummy” (www.kidsgardening.org/www.gardeningwithkids.org,$14.95)

•

WE V

E

IT

LO

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

Photos by Verve Studio and Kelsey Lynn Photography

IT.

E

IT

V

going

IT.

WE U S

E

recycling

technology

don’t toss your phone, iPod or computer!

BY ALEXANDRA BITTON

Reduce, reuse and recycle. The catchy and effective slogan spearheading conservation programs has helped turn an important issue into a part of everyday life. But, it is easy to forget that recycling goes beyond cans and bottles and can include today’s technology.

Why Recycle?

The idea is to reduce materials used, reuse items used for new purposes and recycle items that can not be reused in their current form. A whole new vocabulary has emerged around these developing practices, including the term e-cycling or recycling technology.

The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has dubbed e-cycling the practice of either donating or recycling used electronic items or “e-scrap.” Many of the technology that was created to simplify life can be harmful to the health of humans and the environment. For instance, compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) contain mercury, a hazardous material.

There are several ways to recycle technology. First, if the item is still in usable condition, donate it. Computers or computer parts can be donated to schools or other organizations. Find an organization that interests you and ask if they accept technology donations. If the item is no longer in working condition, sometimes it can still be donated and individual parts will be reused.

Disposing of unusable items is easy as well. Used and unbroken CFL light bulbs can be recycled at a number of local home improvement and lighting stores.

E-scrap can be dropped off Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday, 7:30 a.m.-5:30 p.m. It is free for Alachua County residents to drop off items. Businesses have to pay a fee to drop off broken computer monitors, based upon the size of the monitor.

Visit www.alachuacounty.us/e-scrap or call 352-334-0440 for more information about Alachua County’s e-scrap program.

Photos courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

How To Recycle Technology

The Alachua County Hazardous Waste Collection Center, located at 5125 NE 63rd Ave. (next to the Leveda Brown Environmental Park and Transfer Station, two miles north of the Gainesville Regional Airport on Waldo Rd.), accepts the following e-scrap: Cellular Phones Computer Desktop Towers Computer Monitors Computer Printers & Scanners Game Systems Laptop Computers Microwaves Power Tools Stereo Components Tape Recorders Telephones Televisions VCR Players DVD Players Computer Peripherals (keyboard, mouse, etc.)

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2010

17

It’s off to

summer

camp we go!

According to the American Camp Association, summer camps have come a long way since the inception of the first American organized camp, the Gunnery Camp of 1861. At the time, Mr. and Mrs. Frederic W. Gunn owned a home school for boys and, in the summer of 1861, they took the students on a two week excursion, full of hiking, fishing and “trapping.” The Gunnery “summer camp” experience lasted for 12 years.

Today, parents can find summer camps to fit about any special interests their child might have. There is football camp, band camp, computer camp, space camp, tennis camp, science camp, and even whale camp. There are day camps, sleep-away camps and weekly camps. The options for parents today can be overwhelming.

Before choosing a camp

setting that is right for your child, you should determine whether your child is ready for camp. The American Camp Association suggests answering these determine your child’s “camp readiness” status:

1. What is your child’s age?

2. How did your child become interested in camp?

3. Has your child had positive overnight experiences away from home?

4. What does your child expect to do at camp?

5. Are you able to share consistent and positive messages about camp?

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Once you have answered these questions and feel as though your future camper is ready, choosing the right camp for them is the next step. With so many choices out there, there is something for every future camper.

How do you choose which camp is right for you and your little camper? Start off by recognizing what it is you and your child need to take away from the summer camp experience. As a parent, do you need them to be at camp for just a few weeks of the summer or do you need more of an every day camp? Does your child have a special interest, like music, that they want to dedicate their summertime to exploring? Is cost a factor? Do you want them to experience the same camping experience you did when you went to sleep-away camp? Again, it is important that whatever camp you do choose, you and your child will walk away from the experience happy and with wonderful memories.

safety

Another important factor when choosing a summer camp is to make sure, like you do with a day care or school, that all the proper safety guidelines and procedures are being followed to a “T.” All counselors and staff should be trained in CPR and be up-to-date on their safely procedure training.

When outings are planned, are the counselors trained in special circumstances emergency training? Can they recognize tick bites, Lyme disease, spider bites, heat stroke, choking, drowning, sun burn, heat exhaustion or asthma attacks? Are they ready to provide you with emergency contact information, safety training certificates and crisis procedures when asked? There is nothing more serious than the safety of the children.

the cost factor

When considering summer camp options, there is always the cost factor. While some day camps might be free, other camp experiences, such as sleep-away camp, can range anywhere from $400 per week or more.

So, how do you choose which camp experience is right for you child? Take into consideration all the factors: time needs, cost, interest and safety. Talk to your child, give reasonable options and decide together. With that said, happy camping, campers!

le

gigg

Resources for parents:

The American Camp Association www.acacamps.org

giggle

magazine • april/may 2010

19

the

tastiest salads for kids & adults!

Photos by Verve Studio

Caprese Salad GIGGLE MAGAZINE EXCLUSIVE!

Ingredients

1-2 pints grape tomatoes 1 lb fresh mozzarella cheese, packed in water (small balls) 3 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 5 tablespoons balsamic vinegar ½ teaspoon oregano Fresh basil leaves, tear/cut into strips Salt/pepper to taste

Directions

Wash tomatoes.

Place tomatoes and mozzarella in dish.

Drizzle with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.

Top with basil, oregano, and salt and pepper.

Toss.

(All ingredients can be adjusted per individual taste preference)

visit our website

gigglemag.com for more tasty recipes!

Chicken Salad with Aioli dressing GIGGLE MAGAZINE EXCLUSIVE!

Ingredients

1 lb chicken breast 1 large clove garlic, chopped 1 tablespoon Dijon mustard 2 tablespoons fresh lemon juice 1 egg yolk 1 cup extra virgin olive oil Salad mix Salt & Pepper to taste

Directions

Place garlic, mustard, and lemon juice in bowl of food processor. Process until garlic is minced very fine. While processor is still running, slowly add half of oil in a fine steady stream, making sure it emulsifies with the egg mixture.

Open processor and add the salt and pepper.

Close and run processor while adding the remainder of the oil in a fine, steady stream.

20 giggle

Using a spatula, transfer to a bowl or storage container. Check seasonings and

serve or store in refrigerator.

If a looser consistency is desired, add a teaspoon or so of water and whisk through until smooth.

Chicken: Rinse and dry chicken.

Bake/broil/ or grill as desired.

Salad: Spring greens Add vegetables as desired Toss salad greens with Aioli dressing. Top with warm chicken and serve. *RAW EGG WARNING The American Egg Board states: “There have been warnings against consuming raw or lightly cooked eggs on the grounds that the egg may be contaminated with Salmonella, a bacteria responsible for a type of food poisoning. Healthy people need to remember that there is a very small risk and treat eggs and other raw animal foods accordingly. Use only properly refrigerated, clean, sound-shelled, fresh, grade AA or A eggs. Avoid mixing yolks and whites with the shell.”

“I now have ‘mommy attention deficit disorder.’ “

I have multiple things going at one time. I start gathering the laundry and then remember the trash needs to be taken out, ‘oh yeah I forgot to email someone back,’ and then the baby needs to be changed, and the dog needs to go outside...and what was I doing again? Laundry! “ ~Rebecca Tillmann

How has Mommyhood changed you?

“My daughter has made me slow down and enjoy the ride.”~Prentiss Lee Ladkan “Not a chance to be lazy!”

But then also not a moment without LOVE. With coffee and a box of gummies I can do anything! ~ Crystal Scott

Mother’s Day Giveaway!

Happy Mother’s Day from giggle magazine!

Register to win this beautiful pair of silver earrings with pink droplets from Lang Jewelers.

Just visit www.gigglemag.com, click on Mother’s Day Giveaway and enter your name to win.

Contest ends April 30, 2010. Winner’s name will be drawn at random from all entries on May 1. Winner will be contacted via e-mail/ phone to claim prize. Must live in Alachua County to win. No purchase necessary. giggle

magazine • april/may 2010

21

p

the legal side of things

True or False On Laws

BY ATTORNEY ALISON WALKER with the law firm of Folds & Walker, LLC Additional information provided by Sondra Randon, Esq.

1

2

Doors of all public buildings must open to the inside. This is false. There is actually a law on the books requiring that doors of public building must open outwards, so that in the case of an emergency, a large number of people exiting can leave as quickly as possible.

3

Watch where you ride your skateboard or inline skates, as it might be against the law. This is true! It is illegal to skateboard, in-line skate, play paintball or freestyle, mountain or off-road bicycle on property owned or controlled by a government entity, unless such entity has specifically designated the area for those uses.

4

It is illegal to text on your cell phone while driving.

This is false, at least for now. There is a movement among many states to pass laws to prohibit the use of hand held devices and/or texting while driving. Twenty-one states, including the District of Columbia and Guam, have a textingwhile-driving ban in effect. Six states, including Florida, have laws that prohibit local jurisdictions from enacting these types of restrictions.

5

All houses must have white picket fences and full-width, two-story porches. This is true, depending upon where you live. Seaside, FL is located in the panhandle and is an unincorporated, planned community. It is considered an example of “new urbanism,” similar to the community of Celebration located near Disney World. You may have seen many of houses in Seaside in the 1998 movie, “The Truman Show.”

22 giggle

What is Law Day and Law Week?

When is it?

The first of May of every year is designated as “Law Day.” “Law Week” begins the Sunday preceding May 1.

What is it?

During Law Week, all residents, schools, businesses and clubs and the mass media are invited to commemorate the role of law in our lives each year. The Governor should issue a proclamation celebrating these events, with a theme to be determined by the Supreme Court of Florida and supported by the lawyers of Florida through The Florida Bar.

What is the theme for 2010?

This year’s theme is “Law in the 21st Century: Enduring Traditions, Emerging Challenges.”

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

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Kids and their parents can celebrate each other on the first Sunday in April each year – as Parent’s and Children’s Day is a legal holiday in the State of Florida. This is true! On this day, local communities and families, public officials, schools, private organizations, and all citizens are encouraged to celebrate the lives and blessings of Florida’s children; to acknowledge our children as one of our greatest resources; to listen to children and reaffirm our shared commitment to helping children reach their full potential; and to observe this day with appropriate activities, ceremonies, public awareness materials, and programs. The law encourages all citizens of the state to wear a white ribbon on this day which shall indicate that our children are considered to be special gifts and are valued for their part in the circle of life.

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

Mommies:

the secrets to getting

the right gift on Mother’s Day!

BY DANA KAMP

That wonderful day is coming!

The day mommies everywhere are honored for their hard work and unconditional love. The day our immeasurable “To-Do” lists and our infinite supply of boo-boo kisses and band-aids are rewarded.

Or, it could be the day Daddy and the kiddos (if they’re old enough to be at fault) drop the ball. Let’s make sure that doesn’t happen this year. Let’s make sure you get what you really want this Mother’s Day. Put your significant other on the store’s mailing list. He will receive e-mails and/or announcements about Mother’s Day specials…hint, hint. If there is something you really have your eye on, ask if they have a Wish List card you can fill out. Most likely, they will be happy to e-mail or call your hubby before the big day to let him know you have items on your list.

Take the little ones shopping yourself. Yes, the handmade noodle necklace they make for you at school is wonderful and will be treasured forever (or at least until the bugs start to eat it). But, if that new pair of jeans is really what you’re hoping to get, pile everyone into the minivan and head to the store. You can make an event of it; even give it a name! “Project Mommy,” “The Amazing Race to Find Mommy’s Jeans,” or “What Not to Wear When Your Name is Mommy” all have a nice ring.

Give them a fashion show in the dressing room and let them vote! They can honestly say they chose what they “bought” for you. Wrap it up and shower them with kisses when you open it up on Mother’s Day.

24 giggle

Tape a picture of the item to the fridge/coffee maker/steering wheel/shower door…wherever he might see it! Don’t be afraid to be obvious.

Men need that. Make sure somewhere on the picture is the name of the store in which he’ll find your gift. He needs to know that getting you something that he thinks “looks just like the picture” is not what you want. You want THAT actual item. Even if it’s only a $9.99 yoga DVD, you deserve to get the one you have cut out, circled and taped to the toilet seat.

Type the day’s activities into his Blackberry. Start with your chosen wake-up time and let him know whether breakfast in bed or brunch at your favorite restaurant is how you want to kick off the day. Follow that idea with however you want to spend the afternoon and evening — watching “Steel Magnolias” uninterrupted, a pedicure with your sisters or a family trip to Devil’s Millhopper.

This would not only guarantee the day goes as you want it to (with the occasional meltdown by the two-year-old), but it saves him from having to schedule a day you may or may not really enjoy.

Remind him of the great gift you gave him last Father’s Day. You put a lot of thought into it and knew he’d sincerely love it. What a concept. Then add the quote, “Man, the only way you could top that would be to get me (fill in the blank).” Now you’ve made it a competition. Did you see his eyes light up? Let the games begin!

Suggest the gift for his mother. Tell him you know the perfect thing for her. It’s so great that you would even love it for yourself. Let him know where it is and what a great deal they’re offering right now. Getting two gifts in the same place and getting a deal? A grown man’s wish has been granted.

It doesn’t matter if you want to spend Mother’s Day alone at the spa or with your toes in the sandbox with your children. Whatever would make the day special for you is what you deserve! You can follow the tips provided, leave this page open on his pillow, or even write your gift request in red lipstick on the bathroom mirror. Just make sure you feel loved and appreciated at the end of the day.

Happy Mother’s Day!

To all

a from moms,

e

agazin giggle monderful w Have a er’s Day Moth

teens p

Texting

on the

go

Still, a summer 2007 survey, conducted by AAA and Seventeen magazine, found that nearly half of the more than 1,000 16- and 17-year-olds interviewed said that they text during driving. And a little more than half admitted to using a cell phone while behind the wheel.

What This Means to You

ER Docs Urge Kids to Skip Texting While in Motion The old taunt “You can’t chew gum and walk at the same time” these days could be applied to texting (text messaging) while walking — or while doing just about anything else. That’s because people are getting hurt — and hurting others — when texting while in motion.

The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP) is warning students about the dangerous new trend of texting at “inappropriate times.”

The 411 on Texting

When kids and teens text, they’re thinking about what to say, focusing on what their thumbs are doing, and reading constantly incoming messages — rather than paying attention to what they’re doing or where they’re going. And that significantly ups their risk of getting hurt and injuring others, possibly even seriously.

Photos courtesy of Istockphoto.com

And it doesn’t matter if kids can practically text with their eyes closed, as many can (and proudly). Even if it feels like second nature, their brain is still focused on trying to do two things at once — and one of them is bound to get less attention.

Texting while driving, in particular, can turn tragic. In 2007, a 17year-old driver and four passengers were killed in New York when her SUV crashed, head on, into a tractor-trailer. Though police couldn’t say for sure that it was the driver doing the texting or talking, her phone records showed constant activity of sending and receiving text messages and calls in the seconds and minutes right before the crash.

Driving while texting (or DWT) is even against the law in some states (Minnesota, Washington, New Jersey and Louisiana). And many more are trying to put the same kind of regulations into action.

Love it or hate it, texting is a major part of life for many people today, especially teens. They’re often compelled to stay connected and in touch from sunup to sundown.

To help teens keep their texting in perspective: Emphasize that there’s a time and place

for texting. When teens are in a texting “conversation” and feel compelled to read responses and answer right away that diverts their attention and prevents them from focusing.

Create and enforce family rules about texting, as well as cell phone use overall.

Encourage teens to keep both hands on the wheel when driving and skip distractions like eating, reaching for things, switching CDs, changing radio stations, fiddling with portable music players, whooping it up with lots of friends, and applying makeup, says SADD. Recommend ignoring calls or texts (or turning off their phone altogether) while they’re involved in anything that requires their full attention, says ACEP. Tell kids to keep their cell phones in easily accessible places like a specific pouch or pocket in their backpack or purse.

Encourage kids to pick up the phone and talk instead of using texting as their main source of communication. Messages can be misunderstood (just like e-mail). Sometimes it’s better to just have a real live conversation.

Be a good role model — don’t text or talk on your cell when you should really be focusing your attention elsewhere (like on chauffeuring your kids around town). © 1995- 2010. The Nemours Foundation/KidsHealth®.

Reprinted with permission. For the full text of this article, visit http://kidshealth.org/research/texting.html.

A growing number of states don’t allow drivers to talk on their cell phones either. giggle

magazine • april/may 2010

25

p family spotlight Percussion] are on scholarship and they aren’t treated any different—all the kids are given a place,” said Patti Drew, whose son Matthew attends Studio Percussion.

As wonderful and exhilarating as the experience was, it has also had its difficulties. As the bus arrived with Ty Pennington and his team running to the Wagstaff’s front door to announce they had been chosen, four little ones (T.J., age 7, Rudy, 6, Dallas, 5, and Jolene, 4) came running out along with their parents, Jill and Tobin. Then everything came to an abrupt halt. On TV, the family seems to be immediately whisked away for a fun-filled vacation, but in reality it would be hours of taping, film crews setting up, retakes and more retakes, photos, interviews and packing, before the family was piled into the limo to head for the airport. T.J. and Dallas agreed that all the waiting around was the hardest part. Dallas got sick on the plane and all the traveling even took its toll on mom and dad.

“For me, one of the hardest parts of the experience was having four kids in hotels and airports for six days,” said Jill.

the Wagstaffs after the build The Wagstaff Kids

and their outrageous rooms!

BY MARY REICHARDT Photos by Lifeprints Photography by Shandon

The home is complete, the volunteers gone, the tents, lights and trucks all returned, and the family is settling in. However, don’t picture the Wagstaffs lying lazily around their new dream home just yet. With seemingly endless interviews and press, weekend public tours of the home, and hundreds of emails and letters weekly, the Wagstaffs don’t consider their lives to be “back to normal” quite yet.

Jill and Tobin Wagstaff, were selected from a pool of more than 300 Gainesville area families to receive a new home from ABC’s “Extreme Makeover Home Edition” in December 2009. Nearly nine years ago the Wagstaffs started Studio Percussion, a music school that was both a business and a community service (featured in giggle’s Charity Spotlight, August/September 2009 issue). After almost a decade of serving the community, the family was recognized by ABC, who partnered with Ark Remodeling and more than 3,000 volunteers and area businesses to give the Wagstaffs a safe, maintenance-free home they could enjoy and that would allow them to focus on what they love most—giving the community the gift of music.

“There are very few families who give back to the community like they have. They are selfless. Many of the kids [at Studio

26 giggle

Tobin agreed that “the logistics of dealing with four children in the midst of it all” was trying as a parent. However, it all paid off in the end. Spending time with one of the most famous bands in history—KISS; seeing an entire community come together to do something nice for their neighbor; and the Wagstaff kids seeing snow were all some family favorites.

The kids also thought it was “really, really awesome” to see themselves on TV. And, let’s not forget that coming home to a brand new house topped it all off.

The Wagstaff family got to keep all their clothes and old toys and giggle magazine sponsored a successful toy drive for the kids. While the family is still busy discovering all that the new home has to offer, parents and kids alike all have favorite things about their new rooms. Tobin loves his bed and Jill agrees the guitar-string headboard is a favorite (along with her bathtub!). T.J. loves the dry-erase boards and drawing comics on his new easel. Rudy loves sleeping in his new hot rod bed; Dallas loves his clown suit; and little Jolene loves her magic wand and her juke box book shelf.

“Though this process has certainly been exhausting and much more difficult that what people may imagine, I accept what I have been blessed with and know that we will use it to bless others,” said Jill.

All in all, the experience seemed pretty amazing and the Wagstaffs don’t seem to be slowing down any time soon. They are planning to take Studio Percussion on tour around town to raise funds to move to a building. If you’d like to help out or join, visit them on the Web at www.studiopercussion.org or call (352) 338-8302. b

Pretty in pink and adorned with musical notes, Jolene’s music-inspired room is the perfect space for any little girl.

Her retro jukebox book shelf is her favorite feature in her new room.

s ’ e n e l Jo om ro

the

kids’ rooms Dallas and Rudy can race the night away in their race car-inspired room complete with race car beds with working head lights.

Show host Ty Pennington told the two boys that their race car beds meant that they could “race each other to sleep.”

Dallas & Rud y’s

room

TJ’s

room

TJ’s room is equipped with all the tools that any budding artist would need.

From out of the box dry-erase walls to a fully equipped easel, TJ can let his imagination go far in the world of comic book illustration.

p

all kidding aside

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

A

s the end of the school year draws closer, many children will be making the leap to the next big challenge of their academic careers. A transition from one school to another can be a stressful time for many children. But, the transition to a higher level school can be even more difficult because of the changes in academics and physical and emotional issues that occur at these ages. There are many questions that your children who are graduating to the next level may have and it is important that you understand just what to expect when your child takes the next step.

Middle school also includes changing classes and learning to navigate the middle school hallways. This can be quite intimidating to some children. If your child is concerned about having to switch classes during the day, see if you and your child can visit the school before classes begin, attain a copy of their schedule and walk the halls to learn where each class is located.

Most middle schools provide a transitional program or field trip for incoming sixth graders. This introduction to middle school is meant to ease anxiety and answer questions that the students might have. Middle schools often provide a tour of the school to the students and have current sixth grade students share their experiences with your child. The most important recommendation is for parents to stay involved. Parents should attend any parent/teacher conference nights and immediately establish a relationship with the teachers.

The transition from middle to high school is usually a very exciting time for your child. However, once in high school, students find that high school is not all fun and extra-curricular activities. New high school students find that high school has a very different atmosphere than middle school. They can find classes in high school difficult to manage since they are given more responsibility and independence than they had in middle school. Teachers typically no longer monitor your child’s weekly progress and expect them to be reliable and to get their assignments done on time, with little guidance. The excitement of extracurricular activities also brings along the importance of good study habits and excellent time management. It is im-

28 giggle

portant that all parties involved in the high school experience work together to achieve a successful high school transition - students, parents and teachers must work together and remain committed to staying involved and focused to get the job done successfully.

As your children grow, they will encounter many different transitions in life and it is important that you remain the constant figure in every one of them. No matter how scary or intimidating these changes can be, having the support of a parent will have a lasting effect on your child’s success in school.

If there ever is a time when you and your child feel that they are struggling or having difficulties with these transitions, your child’s guidance counselor will be there to help. Using the team approach and working together with your child, their teachers, counselor and coaches will make a world of difference for your child. As long as you are involved and supportive during all of the transitions in your child’s academic endeavors, success will come from all of that hard work!b

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

When a child is promoted from fifth grade to middle school, the transition can be exciting for many and scary to others.

Middle school brings an enormous amount of changes academically; specifically, the amount of work that comes along with having several different teachers. With this increased workload, sixth grade students have to adjust to this increasing demand with strong organizational skills and great time management. Preparing your child for this increased work load can help. Make sure that your child uses their daily agenda and that they do not procrastinate when getting their projects done.

in our next issue!

Celebrating Dad

We All Scream for Ice Cream!

Hurricanes 101

Giggle’s Ultimate BabyShower Be sure to get your hands on our

June a July Issue!

www.gigglemag.com

®

giggle

magazine • july 2009

31

night out ladies’ gainesville moms take a break.

Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

giggle ladies received nothing but the royal

treatment at Spa Royale, during the recent Ladies’ Night Out spa night this past month. Conveniently located off Newberry Road, Spa Royale offers an experience not to be missed. From its welcoming relaxation room, complete with a beautiful fountain, to the spa’s professional and gracious staff, we were beyond excited for our night of primping and pampering.

After changing into our soft cozy robes, we were able to unwind together listening to soft music and sipping refreshing beverages. Once ready, we were each treated like royalty and escorted to our individual rooms for personalized treatments. The massages, scrubs, wraps, facials and pedicures were heavenly.

Spa Royale offers premier treatments that are sure to please everyone. The spa offers an array of massages, including a deep hot stone massage, a shared experience couples’ massage, and even a maternity relaxation massage. And, if that isn’t enough, there are body scrubs infused with a yummy scent of your choice, followed by a private waterfall shower. What could be better? Spa Royale also has a complete menu of pedicures, manicures, facials and reflexology spa treatments.

We all left feeling like royalty. Thank you, to Spa Royale and its amazing staff and services, for a wonderful night of pampering and relaxation.

a little luxury

and relaxation giggle magazine recommends Spa Royale’s

32 giggle

Deep Hot Stone Massage Maternity Relaxation Massage Spa Goddess Facial Spa Pedicure Sugar Glow

SPACE AVAILABLE

33

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

Explore the fascinating world of forensic entomology!

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

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

Find us on

Insurance

giggle dollars

$$

p

Do you have the right insurance for your family?

B

BY KELSEY MCNIEL

etween diaper cream, first days of school and dance class, it’s understandable that life insurance may not cross the minds of a lot of parents. But veteran Allstate Insurance agent Ray McKnight, LUTCF, CLTC, believes buying life insurance should be a priority for every family, whether they’re budgeting for cribs or a child’s first car.

“It helps secure the future of the family,” said McKnight.

“When you have kids everything changes. You need that life insurance to replace the income should something happen to the primary breadwinner in the family.”

ings account’ so that if you live, you get back at least some of, and often much more than, the amount you spent on your premium. You [can] get this money back either by cashing in the policy or by borrowing against it.”

Who needs life insurance?

“Term insurance is like rent, where as whole life is like buying a house,” McKnight said. Term insurance is intended for younger, healthier people who may need a lot of coverage, like an expecting couple or parents of young children.

It may seem that young families, with college and life expenses to plan for, are the only ones who need insurance.

But, McKnight believes every family, from new parents to baby boomers, needs that extra assurance in case something goes wrong.

“Even when your kids are adults, you’re still going to have expenses,” he said. “If you don’t have life insurance, your children will inherit whatever debt is associated with your estate.”

McKnight said many people put off purchasing life insurance, because it seems too expensive or unnecessary.

“I think most people think of it as another bill, not understanding that it’s really an asset that’s going to pay off,” said Victor Hazy, president of Insurance World of Gainesville. “We’re all going to die one day and, as long as you keep that policy up, it’s going to pay off.”

Hazy also adds that people may be surprised at how inexpensive policies can be.“We’re all living longer, which means companies are collecting premiums for longer,” he said.

Once a family has made the decision to buy life insurance, the choices can seem endless and confusing.

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Term or Whole Life?

The type of life insurance a family buys should be based upon age, health and future obligations.

A term life insurance policy covers a set amount of time, such as five or 10 years, and the rate may go up each time the policy is renewed. Whole life insurance, on the other hand, is a policy with a set rate spanning a person’s lifetime.

According to an MSN Money article by Ginger Applegarth, term life insurance only offers benefits upon death.

Meanwhile, permanent or whole life policies offer “a ‘sav-

“You want to buy as much [coverage] as you can afford. In the early days, when there is less in the budget, you want to try to maximize your purchase,” said McKnight. “You may want to invest 10-20 times your salary.”

McKnight said whole life insurance costs approximately two-and-a-half to three times more than term life insurance per month.

“A healthy 30-year-old could buy $100,000 of term life insurance for about $25 a month, whereas whole life would probably be about $60 per month,” he said.

As rates increase due to age or increased health risks, it is wise for families to convert their term policies to whole life insurance. “Buying whole life keeps those rates from escalating,” McKnight said.

Though life insurance is an additional bill each month, Hazy recommends buying as soon as possible.

“The sooner you can work it into your budget, the less expensive it’s going to be over the long run,” said Hazy, adding that many companies offer policies that also cover all the children in the house for just $50 more a year.

The Right Amount of Coverage is Key

McKnight recommends thinking about all the holes that will need to be filled should something happen to a primary contributor in the family. Funeral costs and college tuition may be obvious, but daily living expenses, car payments and mortgages are also things to consider.

“It’s more about your loved ones and taking care of them than it is about you,” he says. b giggle

magazine • april/may 2010

35

36 giggle

diy

for dads. by dads. p

} green{ projects with dad

BY CHRIS WILSON

F

or most Dads, those weekend “honey-do” lists are sometimes quite long. This spring, why not enlist the help of the kids and turn your home into a more energy-efficient and environmentallyfriendly “green” home. Here are some projects that the kids can help you get done around the house:

Install CFLs In Every Fixture

If you’ve put off installing compact fluorescent lights (CFLs) in any of your home light fixtures, now is the time to do it. As you wait for incandescent bulbs to burn out, you’re wasting energy and money.

CFLs use 75 percent less energy and last for years.

Have the kids go through every room and around the exterior of your home and make notes on how many light fixtures are in each room. Tell them to make special notes for rooms that have lights on dimmers and other, more specialized bulb fixtures. Pile them into the family roadster for a trip to the home improvement store and, if they’re old enough, have them help you install the new bulbs when you get home.

Install Ceiling Fans

If you have ever installed ceiling fans, you know it can be quite a challenge to do on your own. Grab the kids and have them hold tools, screw on the fan arms, support the light fixture as you hook up the wiring and install the new CFLs when the fixture is ready. Try to buy an Energy Star-rated fan and once the fan is installed, raise your air conditioning temperature by five degrees until you fine tune the temperature for comfort.

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Plant Trees and a Garden

Even Dads who are only “young at heart” love to dig in the dirt.

Get the kids involved in some springtime planting as a great way to green up your property. Planting trees strategically around your home can provide shade and keep rooms cooler on those sunny summer days. Arm the kids with shovels and you can “supervise” most of the process. The hole should not be too deep or too narrow.

In a few years, that twig you planted will be a fully grown tree and it can save you as much as 40 percent of your cooling costs.

Gardens also are a great way to save money, educate children about growing their own food and enjoy some good eats.

Build a Worm Bin

Most children love playing with worms, so make them your family “pet.” Worms can thrive in a closed container, so why not let them eat your garbage while enlisting their help for rich compost for your new garden? Use a couple sheets of exterior grade plywood, a few scraps of 2” x 6” wood and two hinges to build your worm bin. Plastic worm bins also are available in stores. Line the bottom of the bin with a bed of moistened leaves or shredded cardboard and add a colony of red wiggler worms (Earthworms don’t do well in closed quarters). Feed them faithfully with food scraps. They’ll produce compost and they won’t attract pests the way that a compost pile might.

Those are just a few ways to get you started when it comes to making your home more green. Enlist the help of your kids and mom will be happy for the free time and the results.

forget

don’t

to visit the giggle magazine Web site to register for our

giggle Goes Green Giveaway!

www.gigglemag.com giggle

magazine • april/may 2010

37

why I love raising my family in

gainesville

a

My husband and I moved from New Zealand to the U.S. in the summer of 2001, a few short weeks before terrorists attacked the World Trade Center in New York. It was in the aftermath of that awful time that we found ourselves reaching out and putting down roots in Gainesville, strangers in a strange land.

What do we like about raising a family in Gainesville? It’s hot and we love it. There is a nice crisp, cool fall, winter and spring, which segues right into a blazing summer. If we get too hot we can just jump in a pool or turn up the air conditioning or have a cool glass of sweet iced tea, or perhaps all three. It’s nice to feel sun on my face all year round and be able to take a walk with my family even during the cooler months.

The people here are darn friendly. On one of our first nights out on the town, I met a woman in a bar restroom of all places.

We struck up a conversation after she heard my accent and we are still having that conversation after nine years, one wedding, three children and two zip-codes. While I was pregnant, people congratulated me or asked about the baby on a daily basis.

As newcomers people would go out of their way to help us get settled, especially our co-workers who quickly became friends.

Two words: Gator sports. The first time we set foot in Ben Hill Griffin stadium we experienced first hand the incredible team spirit. Sitting in our seats, crammed in with so many screaming, sweating football fans was like a baptism by fire and we haven’t been the same since. We’ve celebrated with our fellow Gators and we’ve mourned losses with them, too.

Gainesville has the vibrancy of a big city, without all the big city bother. It’s small enough that you can get to know your neighbors, but big enough that you also can hide from them if you want.

One day when my husband and I decide to take our family back to New Zealand, I know we’ll leave a part of our heart behind in Gainesville, our second home.

the Thorpes

Jared, Tracy and Ruby giggle

magazine • june 2009

Photo by Laurel Housden Photography giggle 38giggle 38

38

giggle

magazine • feb/march 2010

39

p

giggle trips

Travel Abroad with Kids

BY JANET GROENE Janet Groene is a professional travel writer and a columnist.

Things have changed since your parents took you on your first trip outside the United States. Today you need to know exactly what your own family must do before, during and perhaps after a trip abroad.

Legal Entanglements

Unless both parents are traveling, one parent needs written, notarized permission from the other parent to take a child out of the country. If a divorce is involved, you also need copies of divorce and custody papers. Mischelle Davis, a step-mom, also carries a copy of her marriage certificate to prove that she’s married to her stepchild’s father. In most places, non-parents also need notarized permission to get medical treatment for a minor.

What used to be an innocent trip to Canada, the Bahamas or Mexico with Grandma now has become an international incident. It’s smart to bring copies of birth certificates to prove parentage and citizenship or to help when replacing a lost or stolen passport. All papers should be safeguarded. You should have backup copies with you and back at home.

Passport processing seemingly takes forever, so start early.

Use your local post office if possible, and things go fastest if both parents apply together. If time is short, deal with an expediter, such as G3Visas and Passports, Inc. (www.

G3visas.com).

Summer Jenkins at G3 said visas are required by some countries, sometimes for adults only and sometimes for everyone.

Natural History Museum London, UK

40

giggle

Assuring Creature Comforts Your family’s health and safety always come first.

You might need a kit for diaper changing on-the-go, a combination car seat/stroller (great for airplanes, too) or special gear for a rainy climate, extreme cold or tropical heat.

Make sure you update immunizations, including tetanus shots for Mom and Dad. Talk with your doctors about any additional preventative cares, such as those for malaria. With your doctor’s help, put together a first aid kit for the child and the destination. Treatments for itchy bites or jellyfish stings, sunscreen or plenty of baby powder for hot, humid nights might make a good base for your kit.

gle gig

Travel Insurance tips!

Travel insurance plans range from nearworthless to med-evac plans that fly you home from anywhere in the world in a fullystaffed air ambulance. A four-year-old girl was flown home to Ohio from Mongolia with a high fever and a respiratory infection. The cost would have been $121,000 but it was covered by the family’s $385-a-year policy from MedJet Assist.

After the Trip A mother with severe headaches baffled her doctors until she mentioned that she had just returned from South America. The doctor knew that a rare form of meningitis was raging in the area she had visited. She recovered, thanks to prompt diagnosis and treatment. If anyone in your family becomes ill after a trip, tell the doctor immediately. It could be a vital clue to deep-vein thrombosis, which can occur after a long flight, or diseases not seen in your hometown.

London photos by Laurel Housden, beach photo by Istockphoto.com

A huge change in international travel is the tightening of identity regulations. Because of child trafficking, parental abduction and the war on terror, authorities look carefully at everyone, including infants and children. According to the U.S. Department of State Web site (http://travel.state.gov), children need to have their own passports and accompanying adults need documentation proving who they are and whether they have rights to take the children across a national border.

How Cheap is Too Cheap?

After a 2 a.m. fever sent her frantically to the front desk in a European hotel, Meryl Pearlstein, author of Fodor’s “New York With Kids” knew she made the right choice by going first class. Her four-star hotel had a 24-hour front desk, English speaking employees and doctors who are on-call. Pearlstein warns that dirt-cheap places may leave you on your own during emergencies, unable to speak the language or find an emergency room.

Philip Farina, who is a leading authority on hotel security, recommends staying at hotels that have a 24-hour security staff.

In most (but not all) cases, better hotels also have better security.

Here are additional tips on international travel with children: * Many nations require vaccinations for yellow fever, hepatitis A and B, typhoid and/or rabies, says Corinne McDermott, founder of “Have Baby Will Travel.” * Jody Halsted, author of www.familyrambling.com, recommends taking an inexpensive umbrella stroller, even for children who are a bit oversized. It’s easily gate checked, comes in handy for all sorts of hauling tasks and you’re not out much money if it’s damaged or stolen. * Check your child’s backpack before going through security.

Even some small, safe items are banned. One mom was busted for carrying toy scissors. She almost missed a flight. * Don’t expect American-style handicap access overseas. That means more stairs, no elevators and unpaved pathways and trails.

Backpacks, which can go anywhere your feet can take you, may be preferable than a stroller or carriage. * Check www.cdc.gov/travel for latest advisories on your destination’s health situation. * Passports are pricey. If you simply want a Caribbean or South Seas family vacation, passports are not required on American soil, including Hawaii, American Samoa, Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands. b

WAITING ON APPROVAL

Calendar of Events April 1 April Fools Day April 3 Easter Egg Hunt Egg-stravaganza Trinity United Methodist for children up to fifth grade.

Easter Egg hunt begins at 10 a.m., don’t forget your Easter basket!

Immediately after, enjoy crafts, bounce houses, pony rides and a petting zoo.

This event is free and open to the community.

Hamburgers, hot dogs and snacks will be for sale.

Info: 352-376-6615 or visit www.TrinityGNV.org April 3 2nd annual Spring Sale Mill Creek Retirement Home for Horses 10 a.m.-3 p.m. info: www.millcreekfarm.org April 4 Easter April 5-April 9 Spring Break Alachua County Schools April 9 Family Fun Night Sun Country Sports Center 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

April 10 Orange and Blue Spring Game The Swamp, UF Campus 1 p.m.

Info: www.gatorzone.com April 10 & 11 The 41st Annual Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival April 15 Tax Day April 16-May 5 Around the World in 80 Days The Hippodrome www.thehipp.org

April 16-17 Spring Native Plant Sale Morningside Nature Center 8:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. www.natureoperations.org April 17 22nd Annual Fantasy Event “Polynesian Paradise” STOP! Children’s Cancer Stephen C. O’Connell Center Info: www.stopchildrenscancer.org April 18 Eighth annual Alachua Spring Festival 11 a.m - 5 p.m.

Main Street in downtown City of Alachua April 22 Earth Day April 22 Take Your Daughter To Work Day April 22-24 32nd Annual Farm & Forest Festival Celebration of 19th century living in rural Florida 9 a.m.-1 p.m.

Morningside Nature Center info: www.cityofgainesville.org April 24 Pioneer Days High Springs www.highsprings.com

May 8- Jan 17, 2011 CSI: Crime Scene Insects Florida Museum of Natural History Info: www.flmnh.ufl.edu May 8 Windsor Zucchini Festival 9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Info: 352-378-8671 May 9-June 20 Healthy Start Diaper Drive Collecting diapers to benefit babies in North Central Florida Drop of locations throughout Alachua County info: healthystartncf@wellflorida.org May 9 Mother’s Day May 14 Family Fun Night Sun Country Sports Center 6:30 p.m.-8:30 p.m.

May 31 Memorial Day Every Wednesday and Sunday Barnyard Buddies 3 p.m.

Morningside Nature Center Free www.cityofgainesville.org

April

April 24-25 Cedar Key Fine Arts Show 10 a.m- 5 p.m www.cedarkeyartsfestival.com May 2 O2b a Kid Again Benefitting the teachers and students of Alachua County 5 p.m-8 p.m.

O2b Kids, Newberry Road Tickets: 352- 955-7003

May

May 5 Cinco de Mayo

giggle

magazine • april/may 2010

43

Give your child a head start

on a lifetime of healthy, confident smiles.

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

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

Complimentary

Orthodontic exam, X-rays and SureSmile analysis

This offer is valued at $350, so call today!

In Gainesville, call (352) 331-5132

7575 W. University Ave., Ste. E • Gainesville, FL 32607

In Lake City, call (386) 754-0092

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

THE PATIENT AND ANY OTHER PERSON RESPONSIBLE FOR PAYMENT HAS A RIGHT TO REFUSE TO PAY, CANCEL PAYMENT, OR BE REIMBURSED FOR PAYMENT FOR ANY OTHER SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT THAT IS PERFORMED AS A RESULT OF AND WITHIN 72 HOURS OF RESPONDING TO THE ADVERTISEMENT FOR THE FREE, DISCOUNTED FEE, OR REDUCED-FEE SERVICE, EXAMINATION, OR TREATMENT.

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