Giggle Magazine June/July 2011

alachua

county’s

PREMIER

F A M I LY

MAGAZINE

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happy family • happy community TM

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JUNE/JULY 2011 • Volume 3 • Issue 3

ultimate baby

special

baby

product picks aplus!

show issue

er

!

this year’s hottie dads

Big Weight Loss Challenge

winner revealed!

get your kids ready for

the Summer p.17

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magazine • aug/sept 2010

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magazine • aug/sept 2010

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Nicole Irving Publisher

Alison Walker Managing Editor Anne Veda Art Director Mark Archer Graphic Designer Amy Keene Visual Designer and Coordinator Dana Kamp Copy Editor Jennifer Cordova Food Contributor Contributing Writers Wendy Joysen, Chris Wilson, Helen Kornblum, Dana Kamp, Janet Groene, Sondra Randon, Esq., Christina Vila, Daniel Griffin, Stephanie Thomas, Julia Macaluso, Allyson Fox, Sarah Gibson, Kelsey McNiel, Farrah Pirkle, Megan Merkle, CPT, Erica Canova, M.D., Miranda Whitmer, M.D., Tosha Fernandez, Esq. Contributing Photographers Laurel Housden Photography, Kelsey Lynn Photography, Shandon Smith with Lifeprints Photography, Verve Studio Sales Tracey Hardin, Shane Irving Marketing Interns Stephanie Thomas, Kate NesSmith 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 Mailing address 5745 SW 75th Street Unit 286 Gainesville, FL 32608

Physical address 9127 SW 52nd Ave Suite D-102 Gainesville, FL 32608

p. 352.505.5821 f. 352.240.6499 gigglemag.com advertise@irvingpublications.com giggle magazine is registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. giggle magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2011 al ac h ua

co u n t y’s

P R E M IE R

FaM Ily

dd

M aGaZIn E

al achua

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h a p p y fa mily • h a p p y co mmu n it y

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delic yd holida ies! ious

cook

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!

PREMIER

FaMIly

Members of

MaGaZInE

®

®

happy family • happy community T M

afamily-friendly tailgating

AUG/SEPT 2010 • Volume 2 • Issue 4

the Doerings

family spotlight

back to school countdown

for the love of

the arts plus!

school uniforms

in Alachua County

it’s Football season !

www.gigglemag.com

www.gigglemag.com

ADDY AWARD WINNERS

55 years of incredible dance!

You too can be a part!

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Dance Alive National Ballet is funded in part by the National Endowment for the Arts, the State of Florida, Florida Department of State, Division of Cultural Affairs and the Florida Council on Arts and Culture as well as by the City of Gainesville, Department of Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Affairs along with a Tourist Development Tax Grant from the Alachua County Board of County commissioners in conjunction with the Alachua County Tourist Development Council. Season Sponsors: Collier Companies, Dharma Endowment Foundation, AMJ Inc., Gainesville Health & Fitness Center, Pofahl Studios, Gainesville CSI, Inc., Lightspeed Solutions, Jenny Cakes, Johnston Photography, S&S Cleaners, SilzerLaw Chartered, West Farms, Xerographic Copy Center Media CS Sponsors: Asterisk Communications, The Gainesville Sun, Giggle Magazine, Independent Florida Alligator, INsite Magazine, The Local Edge, Welcome giggle magazine • aug/sept 2010 Magazine, WUFT-TV/DT.

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happy family • happy community

TM

40

72

42

every month

features

columns

25 giggle Trips

10 Big Weight Loss

36 The Legal Side

32 In The Kitchen

17 Summer Lovin': Get Your Kids Ready for the Summer

54 All Kidding Aside

40 Hottie Dads 2011

70 Organized Solutions

giggle Trips takes you to The Florida Keys

Summer frozen treats

38 Giggle Stamp Father's day gifts

39 For Dads. By Dads.

First time dads be warned!

51 Giggle Dollars

Gear up for parenting without breaking the bank

52 Local Lifesavers Dollar Store finds

53 Why I Love Raising My Family in Gainesville

Informing families of the important legal issues that affect them

Winner Revealed!

Tough questions answered about kids, family, school, parenting, and everything in between Professional organizer Helen Kornblum helps us find easy ways to keep our busy family lives organized.

This year's hottest daddies in town!

42 An Owl Inspired

Baby Shower

48 The Ultimate Baby Product Picks

on the cover

55 Ladies’ Night Out

Enjoy a night in with the girls

Big Weight Loss Get Ready for The Summer Hottie Dads Owl Baby Shower Baby Product Picks

57 Conception to College 58 Pregnancy | Exercising while pregnant

60 Infants | Carseat 101 62 Toddlers | Teaching your toddler responsibility 66 Tweens | Tweens and cell phones 68 Teens | Moving to college

72 Family Spotlight

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ALACHUA

COUNTY’S

PREMIER

FAMILY

MAGAZINE

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happy family • happy community TM

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JUNE/JULY 2011 • Volume 3 • Issue 3

ultimate baby

specia ba l

by show er iss

product picks aplus!

ue!

this year’s hottie dads

40 42 48

Big Weight Loss Challenge

winner revealed!

get your kids ready for

the Summer p.17

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E

REC

YC L E T H

IS ISS

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A small town's big star, Delaney Rua

UE • PLEA

ISS

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magazine • aug/sept 2010

Cover model, Cason of Gainesville Photo courtesy of Lifeprints Photography

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

magazine • june/july 2011

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Letter from the Publisher

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his has to be one of my all-time favorite issues. We took a pinch of babies, mixed in a handful of hottie dads and threw in some summer time fun to make one amazing issue. I hope you love it as much as we do.

I cannot believe that summer is upon us already. The days of alarm clocks, uniform pressing and lunch box packing are done. Hello beach balls, sun block and pool time! Summer screams family FUN time! Whether it is weekend trips to the beach or a long summer vacation abroad with the whole family in tow, summer is a great time to reconnect with each other and just have fun. We put together an amazing Summer Lovin’ section for you, full of great tips to get you through the hot months of summer.

From your sunscreen questions answered to squashing shark attack myths with Shark Weeks’ very own George Burgess, to tasty summer time treats…we have summer covered from A to Z.

I'm so excited to present our Big Weight Loss competition winner. After four long months of dedicating their time to changing their lives for the better, the competition is finally over and our winner is revealed. Thank you to everyone for your support. We look forward to next year's competition.

And last but not least, I must take a moment to thank everyone who came out to support our March of Dimes Casting Call for Cuties. What a great event for an even greater cause. With your support, babies are given a wonderful chance to be born healthy and happy. We saw so many cuties, which you will see grace our pages in issues to come. Cason, our first casting call star, is our Cover Cutie. His beautiful blue eyes and never-ending smile captured our hearts.

So, as the days of summer call your name, make sure to take a little time to enjoy each other, the sand and the surf, and don’t forget to bring “giggle” along for the ride!

aNicole Publisher

our cover!

Meet our cover model Cason

Age | 9 1/2 months (born Aug 1, 2010) Favorite Book | "If You Give A Moose A Muffin" by Laura Numeroff Favorite Movie | Mickey Mouse Clubhouse "Mickey's Adventures in Wonderland" Favorite Stuffed Animal | blue corduroy elephant Favorite Food | Plum Organic's Pumpkin & Banana Cason likes to read books with Meme, go for runs with Mema & play with his cousin Claire. His best friends are Jackson & Cambell. He is Daddy's little buddy & Mommy's favorite!

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

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in other giggle Win ticket 2 s!

news

Is your child the biggest

Cars fan?

Do they live, breathe and eat Cars? Is your dog named Mater and your cat named Lightning? If so, share their story + tell us why they should win two tickets to see Cars 2 courtesy of Gator Cinemas.

Visit www.gigglemag.com for entry rules.

follow giggle!

Photo by Laurel Housden Photography

Everyone knows summer would not be complete without a baby shower to go to. I am tickled pink and blue about our Exclusive Twin Baby Shower feature, complete with an adorable owl theme. Inspired by my love of multiples and current obsession with all things owl, Amy from ADORE Events and The Grande Event worked seamlessly together with our other amazing vendors to put together this gorgeous shower. I am so excited to share it with you!

Where to begin? They do laundry, paint little toes, sell Girl Scout cookies, change diapers, coach football, rescue people, protect lives and above all…look great doing it.

Who are these amazing individuals you ask? They are the winners of our 2nd annual Hottie Dad contest. During our photo shoot, each one of these gentlemen took our breath away, not only by their good looks, but with their stories of love and passion for their families and for their roles as fathers.

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magazine • aug/sept 2010

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scoop

™

news and information to keep you informed

BY Christina Vila

Parental assistance for adult children deemed OK Contrary to popular belief, a new study found that parents who assist their 20-something children financially actually help them become independent more quickly. Young adults receiving parent aid through tough financial times, including school, job loss, serious illness or divorce, bounced back to self-sufficiency in shorter periods of time. Researchers observed a 15 percent decrease in financial aid and an 18 percent decrease in living with parents each year. (news.yahoo.com)

Are food dyes making kids hyperactive?

The Center for Science in the Public Interest argues that there is plenty of research to prove that certain food dyes may cause hyperactivity in children who are predisposed to it.

Consumer groups have petitioned the government to ban certain food colorings common in drinks and foods popular with children.

FDA reviewers say these colors may be linked with behavior, but they will listen to advisors’ views before making any decisions. The FDA will ask other experts if they believe further studies are necessary to solidify the link between the two factors. (www.msnbc.msn.com)

Federal funding for better foods at school This fiscal year has seen a $48 million increase in funding for the Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Program, part of a USDA initiative to provide schools with a wider variety of fresh produce available to them. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack said that expanding the options children have helps them lead brighter, healthier lives. This program compliments the Healthy, Hunger-Free Act of 2010, which was created to improve student nutrition.

Agencies in all 50 states and several US territories will distribute the funds to qualifying schools. (www.reuters.com)

‘Facebook depression’ a new concern during check-ups

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In a study published in the journal “Obesity,” researchers state that children factor in other people’s emotions, along with their likes and dislikes, when deciding which foods to eat. Children between the ages of 5 and 8 may be prone to imitating the emotions of those around them.

Showing them pictures of others eating foods, regardless of the weight of those pictured, had a greater impact on the children studied than on adults.

Researchers suggest that parents smile when eating healthy foods so their children will want to follow their eating habits.(www.msnbc.msn.com)

Photos courtesy of Istockphoto.com

In a recent clinical report, the American Academy of Pediatrics is calling on pediatricians to gauge their patients’ interactive well-being. Children are barraged with pictures and status updates from friends on social networks, which could give a skewed perception of reality. Kids at risk of social isolation or poor self-esteem may become depressed, feeling like their lives don’t measure up to their peers’. The AAP’s new policy recommends pediatricians advise parents to bring up cyber bullying, sexting and other digital issues with their children. (healthland.time.com)

Outward emotions can influence healthy food intake

the hard work is over!

meet our

winner!

Presented by giggle Magazine and Sweat Life Fitness

In Dan's Words...

This has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my life.

It has been amazing to witness seven strangers come together to form a close knit and supportive group of friends who motivate and encourage each other to greatness. Each and every one of these ladies has been pushed out of her comfort zone and broken through her individual barriers.

This is only the beginning for them though. They now have the tools to continue on their journey of health and fitness for the rest of their lives.

Their new mission is to use their knowledge and inspiration to help others overcome and persevere – to influence others to greatness.

I know they will succeed – they have already exceeded their initial expectations. Although we crowned an overall champion – they are all winners!

- DANIEL GRIFFIN of Sweat Life Fitness

In Nicole's Words...

- NICOLE IRVING of giggle Magazine

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everything in life.

-Laura

Lost 18 inches, 30 lbs of fat and participated in the Warrior Dash adventure race!

BEFORE

!

R E T F A Winning for me was more than just the prizes at the end of the 16 weeks. It was slipping on my goal object (prepregnancy jeans), having them fit, and feeling comfortable in them. It was the compliments I got at work from my coworkers. It was feeling healthy and wanting to go out and be active every day. It was having more energy for everything in life.

The best part was the group motivation and support. It was wonderful having a group of strong women to work with, lean on and support through the journey. The trainers were amazing and were there to help you through the struggles, provide support and encouragement at weekly workouts and weigh-ins, and were always willing to share their knowledge and tips with you to help you succeed.

--Laura

Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

It was an honor to be a part of these amazing ladies' journey.

From start to finish, they gave it their all and worked hard at improving their lives and the lives of their family. They were an inspiration to us all. I wish them the best of luck in all that they strive to accomplish on their new journey.

it was about having more energy for

1st

Runner

Up!

the best prize has been getting the

expert advice

BEFORE

AFTER!

Although it was a competition with a winner at the end, I have been saying through the competition that the best prize has been being selected to be in the program and getting all the expert advice and training. It has reminded me to prioritize my fitness and work hard to fit it into my everyday life."

BEFORE Danielle

Lost 17 inches, 19 lbs and competed in her first (of many) 5K!

-Elaine

"My ability to be a better

Lost 25 inches, 29 lbs of fat and holds the BWLC squat record at 61 reps in 1 minute!

healthy choices

i feel better about my appearance and

2nd

Runn

-Betty Jo

and fitness is due to the BWLC Program." - April

er Up

self-worth

The challenge has taught me a lot about weight loss, general nutrition, exercise and myself.

More importantly, it has helped show me that I'm capable of accomplishing more than I realized. I feel better about my appearance and general self-worth than I have in awhile.

role model to my daughters in relation to

!

60 lbs gone!

BEFORE

AFTER!

Lost 28 inches, 32 lbs of body fat and received new running shoes from Gainesville Running and Walking.

BEFORE

April Lost over 10 inches in waist, hips and thighs, 14 lbs of fat and 2 dress sizes! giggle

magazine • june/july 2011

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the grand reveal

We could not have been more proud of our seven Big Weight Loss Challenge ladies.

Through hard work, dedication and a lot of determination, they all had fantastic results.

What better way to celebrate than with a big REVEAL party!

Each lady was treated like a princess as she had her hair and makeup done for the big event by Cloud 9 Spa and Salon.

The ladies' complete outfits, from shoes to accessories, were styled by Tammy Gordon from Steinmart.

Our event was held at the Plantation Hall in the Haile Village. Guests were served yummy treats by Limerock Road and Sisters. Event dĂŠcor was provided by ADORE Events and The Grande Event. We want to thank our wonderful sponsors for helping make this competition and party a success. Without your support, we could not have done it. We can't wait til next year!!

BEFORE Elissa Lost 20

inches,29 lbs of fat and fought through a knee injury and still persevered. She also ran her first ever 5K.

Daphne Lost 12 inches,17 lbs of fat and 2 dress sizes. She overcame her fear of heights by climbing to row 91 of Ben Hill Griffin Stadium

BEFORE

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17 lb!s gone

The seven ladies of the BWLC with Nicole Irving of giggle Magazine, Dan Griffin, Tara Griffin, Megan Merkle and Caitlyn Shepard of Sweat Life Fitness.

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Sponsors

Go G

ator Green

Limerock Road Neighborhood Grill

giggle

magazine • aug/sept 2010

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summer lovin'

summer safety tips • sunny destinations • sun gear shopping

Summer. Something about

SUMMER LOVIN' SECTION INTRO PAGE

the word just makes us

smile. It brings visions of pool parties, family vacations and Fourth of July celebrations to our minds. It means it's time for sunglasses, sandals and swimwear to be added back into our wardrobe. We are ready for the warm weather, cool lemonade and fun family adventures. Slather on that sunscreen and dive into summer with us!

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www.aclib.us/kids/sr

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alachua county library district

Reversible bucket hat

This protective hat adds one more layer and all day protection against the sun’s harming rays. www.uvskinz.com

swimwear

picks

Chlorine resistant swim hat This wide brim hat protects your little one from all angels. www.coolibar.com

Girls’ and boys’ UV short sleeve tees and board shorts These sun

This pretty in pink toddler ruffled swim set has a UPF rating of 50+, has a stand up collar for extra neck coverage and soft elastic waistband on the shorts. Ruffled swim hat separate. www.coolibar.com

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

protective outfits fit each child to their size and personality.

Mix and match or pick a set that suits your child’s style.

The built-in liner in the board shorts cuts out the need for swim bottoms or diapers underneath.

This attention to detail will make a difference when your children play outside in the sun. www.uvskinz.com

Infant boy’s swim bodysuit This bodysuit is great for the water with chlorine and saltwater resistant material.

The bottom snaps and giving neckline are perfect for a quick change from the water to dry land. www.coolibar.com

Sun protection beach blanket You will feel at peace knowing your family is protected from harmful sun rays when under this blanket. The special hem at the bottom is perfect to tuck in those little feet. www.sunthreadz.com

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magazine • june/july 2011

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lovin'

summer

Have a pool fence or alarm Younger children are naturally attracted to the water, and it is important to have a fence to keep those who are unable to swim away from the pool. If other children are in the pool, consider leaving only one panel open for limited entry.

If you have younger children, a pool alarm can help you monitor the area. Put the alarm on the door leading to the pool area so you will know if your youngster sneaks out.

Know your child’s swimming ability

Keeping It Safe at a Summer Pool Party

BY ALLYSON FOX

Summer is here and with Florida’s

sweltering summer temperatures, there is no better time to cool off by the pool. Whether you are celebrating the end of the school year, your child’s birthday or just enjoying summer vacation, a pool party is a fun way to bring family and friends together.

Although pool parties are a great way to enjoy the summer sun, it is important to take safety precautions. There were, on average, about 4,200 pool-or spa-related injuries to children younger than 15 who were treated by an emergency department each year from 2007 to 2009 nationally, according to poolsafety.gov.

Before your child jumps in the pool, consider these safety guidelines.

Make sure an adult is monitoring the pool at all times The number one reason children drown is because no one is watching them, says Debora Fulton, director of Shands Safe Kids. It may not be intentional, but oftentimes each adult thinks someone else is watching the water.

Fulton recommends using a water-watcher card, which makes an adult conscious that he or she is the one responsible for watching the pool. If the water-watcher needs to go to the bathroom or get a drink, he or she needs to give the water-watcher card to someone else. Since the promotion of the water-watcher card, there has been a 20 percent decrease in drowning in the past

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two years within eight counties of North Central Florida.

Fulton recommends hiring a lifeguard if you cannot give 100 percent of your attention to watching the pool.

Ensure that drain covers are in place Children can get stuck on a drain and trapped underwater. Drain covers prevent entrapment, which can be fatal, says Paul Pennington, chairman of the Pool Safety Council.

Ask your pool professional about a safety vacuum breaker, which automatically turns off the vacuum if someone is being held down by a drain. As an alternative, Pennington recommends turning off the pool filtering system completely while children are swimming. “You never know when the drain covers are going to break or come off,” he says.

Children, regardless of their age, should never be in the water without a parent or adult supervision until they have a good stroke technique and know how to breathe while swimming. Swimming lessons can start at a very early age – many people believe that it’s never too early to learn survival techniques that can save their lives in case of an accidental fall into the pool. Further, Fulton reminds parents and caregivers that “arm floaties are not flotation devices.”

Be cautious of pool toys Children enjoy pool toys, but it is important Children enjoy pool toys, but it is important to keep an eye on them. Remove them if they break or tear, Pennington says. Also, keep in mind that a young child may try to grab a pool toy in the water that is out of his or her reach.

“A swimming pool is a wonderful thing, but it needs to be kept safe,” Pennington says. b

Have a safety talk before children get in the pool Before children jump in the pool, Pennington suggests specifically discussing the importance of staying away from the drain and remind them of some other safety precautions. If your children are older, it is important to talk about keeping their hands to themselves. But if you have younger children swimming, make sure you discuss staying close to the steps.

Pool Safety Toolkit

• A first-aid kit • A pair of scissors to cut hair, clothing or pool cover • A charged cell phone to call 911 if necessary • A flotation device Courtesy of www.poolsafely.gov

Ask the

Dermatologist:

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What’s the Scoop on Sunscreen?

BY ERICA CANOVA, M.D. AND MIRANDA WHITMER, M.D. Gainesville Dermatology & Skin Surgery

1. What should parents look for when buying a sunscreen for their children?

Sunscreen is the first line of defense against damaging UV rays; however, a trip to the sunscreen aisle can be frustrating because of all the choices for the consumer. First, choose a quality brand of sunscreen offering broad UV protection with an SPF of at least 30. Also, stick to the least irritating sunscreens that contain titanium or zincbased ingredients designed for sensitive skin.

Consider sunscreens with newer technology that extend the time the sunscreen is active on the skin.

2. What is the difference between sunscreen and sunblock? Sunblock contains physical or inorganic ingredients that reflect and scatter the UVB light and act as a block between your skin and the sun. Sunscreen contains chemicals that protect your skin by absorbing and reflecting UV radiation.

3. Does sunscreen expire? Yes! It is

very important to check the expiration date on the bottle since sunscreens lose their effectiveness after the expiration date.

4. What type of sunscreen should we use if my little one has sensitive skin? For children with very sensitive skin, we suggest using protective clothing and hats to cover as much of their skin as possible. For the exposed areas, choose a sunblock containing only zinc oxide or titanium dioxide as these are the least likely to irritate sensitive skin.

5. Are there any prescription or over-the-counter medications that increase sun sensitivity? There are

multiple medications that can cause sun sensitivity including antibiotics (such as Bactrim, doxycycline, ciprofloxaxin) and pain relievers (such as ibuprofen). You should check your medication labels and ask your pharmacist about the risks of each of your medicines.

6. I have heard that there is a chemical in sunblock that may cause cancer... what is it? This is a controversial topic.

Some animal studies have suggested that high doses of a particular uncommon sunscreen, retinyl palmitate, could have some harmful effects. It is important to note that this does not mean that this ingredient

is necessarily harmful for humans. While there is no good evidence to suggest that sunscreens and sunblocks can be harmful to humans, we have ample evidence that supports the use of these products to prevent skin cancer.

7. My mother accidentally lathered up my 4-month-old with sunscreen clearly marked "do not use on children under 6 months old" while we were on vacation at the beach. Should I

be concerned about any side effects?

Recent studies suggest that sunscreens are probably safe for any age. Although most products warn against the use of sunscreens for infants less than 6 months of age, the American Academy of Pediatrics now states that sunscreen is probably safe to use on younger children, especially if applying to small areas of your baby's skin that are not protected by clothing, such as the hands and face. More importantly, younger children should be kept out of direct sunlight because they can burn easily and may not be able to handle getting overheated as well as older children. So even though it is likely safe to use sunscreen on kids less than six months old, it is safer to keep them out of the sun.

8. Is it possible to overdose your child's skin with too much sunblock?

Not really, however, some ingredients of sunscreens can cause the skin to become more sensitive. If a sunscreen causes redness or irritation, wash it off and stop using that specific type. A very serious allergic reaction to any sunscreen is rare; however, seek immediate medical attention if you notice any symptoms of a serious allergic reaction such as swelling of the tongue and lips or trouble breathing.

9. I always dress my children in the SPF shirts/pants/hats and apply sunblock to their face. Do I still need to lather them up under the clothes? It is

a good idea to also wear sunscreen, because clothing may not block sunlight completely.

In fact, an ordinary t-shirt may only be the equivalent of SPF 5. Look for clothing designed to block sun, even up to SPF 50, if you spend a lot of time outdoors. Don't forget to apply sunscreen to vulnerable uncovered areas such as the tops of feet, scalp, ears and neck. b

What steps should I take if I think my child has mild sunburn? What if it looks severe? Soothe the skin by applying cool cloths and using lotions that contain aloe vera or 1% hydrocortisone cream for any sunburned areas. For more severe sunburn, pain relievers such as ibuprofen alternating with acetaminophen may help to decrease the inflammation and swelling of the skin.

Seek medical attention immediately for any blistering sunburns or signs of heat exhaustion such as nausea, vomiting or decreased level of giggle magazine • aug/sept 2010 21 consciousness.

lovin'

summer

Sunglass Safety

BY STEPHANIE THOMAS

The color of the lenses doesn’t matter when purchasing a new pair for yourself or your children. As long as the label states that the glasses block 100 percent of the sun’s UV rays, you are in good shape. Lenses that block HEV are most likely amber or copper in color, which also provides contrast when participating in active sports.

Make sure the glasses are impact resistant. Most parents prefer polycarbonate lenses, made of high-tech plastics that are scratch-resistant, lighter and more durable than traditional glass lenses.

Some wear them for fashion; others use them for functionality. Either way you look at it, sunglasses are a necessity for family members of all ages during Florida’s sweltering summer months.

Most children want to emulate their mom and dad or older siblings, so many companies create mini versions of what’s in the market. Shop for glasses at your local optical shop or well-established retail or optical chains.

An important investment you can make in your child’s health is to buy some small shades and protect their pint-sized peepers. Children actually spend more time outside than adults. By age 18, children’s eyes will take in over 80 percent of their lifetime UV exposure.

Two types of light rays are most damaging to your child.

UVB and UVA rays reach your eye and can cause eye disease and problems. UVB rays reach the skin’s surface and increase melanin, thus causing a suntan or sunburn.

Our eyes fully absorb these light rays which can result in pingueculae and pterygia, or growths on the eye’s surface. UVA rays pass through the cornea and hit the lens and retina inside the eye, which may cause future health problems such as cataracts and macular degeneration.

Sunlight rays are also known to contain HEV radiation, or “blue light”, a visible light ray with longer wavelengths.

These rays can penetrate further into the eye and cause retina damage. Children’s eyes are more susceptible to light radiation because their eyes are less capable to filter sun rays. Make sure your child starts wearing sunglasses as soon as he or she plays in direct sunlight.

There are a range of factors that change every day to measure the high outdoor risks for your vision. Florida residents and visitors are closer to the Equator, meaning this is a constant risk that should be handled with precaution. Florida’s low altitude counterbalances this risk, since our low land levels diminish exposure to strong rays. UV and HEV levels can be almost doubled when reflected off a surface such as snow or sand. When at the beach or on a ski vacation, make sure every family member owns and uses sunglasses.

The time of day is one of the most important factors to consider when in the sun with your family. UV and HEV levels are strongest when the sun is high in the sky, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Clouds won’t necessarily remove risk of exposure either. UV rays are invisible radiation and can penetrate clouds.

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When it’s your turn to shop for glasses, make sure to consider your taste and budget. As long as the label supports 100 percent UV protection, any sunglasses will properly protect your eyes from damage, regardless if the glasses are $5 or $500. Designer glasses are high in price usually because of the name attached to the brand, not the quality of the protection itself. Wraparound styles or shades with larger frames protect more of the eye area and block rays from sneaking around the side of the lenses into your eye. Designer shades will have more bells and whistles, such as rhinestones, different color lenses or a complimentary hard case. Just remember the overwhelming rule is to protect yourself and your family first.

Sunny Alphabet Soup

Make some headway with your family’s eye health by learning these terms.

UVC: UVC rays are the highest-energy sun rays that can cause the most damage. Fortunately, the ozone layer traps the emitted rays from reaching the earth.

UVA: UVA rays have lower energy than UVB and UVC rays but are closer to visible light. However, the rays can damage your central vision by passing through the cornea and reaching the retina inside the eye. If eyes take in too much exposure to UVA rays, cataracts and macular degeneration can take form later on in life.

UVB: These wavelengths are longer than UVC rays, meaning some reach the earth’s surface. UVB rays in high doses penetrate the skin and can cause severe sunburns and skin cancer.

HEV: High Energy Visible light emitted from the sun is known as “blue light” for its location on the color spectrum. High exposure to these rays can cause powerful damage over time, such as macular degeneration.

These glasses provide a touch of kid-friendly flare and have a sturdy frame shape and hold so they won’t slip off. www.julbousa.com

Lens Lingo

Learn which lens types are best for the whole gang.

Polycarbonate lenses: These eyeglass lenses are impact resistant and are more likely resistant to scratches when dropped. Young children can benefit from this type of lens in their first pair since they are likely to drop or scratch the glasses.

Photochromic lenses: You may see people wear these glasses when their lenses shift from clear to tinted when in direct sunlight. The lenses are made from either glass or plastic and combine functionality for prescription glasses and sunglasses.

Polarized lenses: Polarized lenses reduce

Photo courtesy of Istock.com, sunglass photo by Laurel Housden Photography

glare and are useful when playing outdoor sports.

The lenses contain a type of filter that blocks horizontal reflection of light. b

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Enjoy Summer Camps at the Museum!

Dive into the sciences and investigate natural history through crafts, activities and hands-on exploration.

June 13 – 17

Globetrotters, Asia Island Fever

June 20 – 24

South American Mysteries Something Furry

June 27 – July 1

Creature Construction Animal Voices Invaders!

July 18 – 22

Aug. 1 – 5

July 25 – 29

Aug. 8 – 12

Marine Mammals Ice Age Six Legs, More or Less Turning Tides Meal Time

Blue Florida Life at the Top

Summer camps are designed for children enrolled in grades 1-6. Call 352-273-2061 for more information or register online at www.flmnh.ufl.edu/education/summer_camps.htm

UF Cultural Plaza n SW 34th St. & Hull Rd. 352-846-2000 n www.flmnh.ufl.edu Mon.- Sat. 10 am - 5 pm n Sun. 1- 5 pm 24 giggle

Fantastic Flight Crabs and Crew Green Planet

Find us on Facebook.

Follow us on Twitter.

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goecsal! tropi

the florida keys

BY JANET GROENE

S

cuba diving. Board sailing. Offshore sport fishing.

Eco-tourism. Sand castle building. When it comes to sea sports, history and nature study, the Florida Keys shine brightest in summer when waters are warmer and clearer.

Summer rates are discounted at favorite family resorts, and your fellow travelers are more likely to be in-the-know savvy sea dogs who know the Keys’ secret. Summertime is better.

Whether you come for fishing or festivals, bargain camping or a deluxe resort, educational travel or just limin’, the Keys hold the key. Sure it’s hot during the day but sea breezes are steady and most afternoons end in a cooling shower.

Anywhere in the Keys No matter where you stay you’re never far from a charter boat skipper or an outfitter who can take you bone fishing in the flats, deep sea fishing, diving, sea kayaking or some other outdoor adventure. You’re also never far from a nature preserve or wildlife rescue operation. Historic spots dot the Keys too, going back to a time when only a handful of islands were inhabited and they were reached only by water.

Photos provided by Janet Groene

The Middle Keys In the heart of the Keys at MM 61, Hawk’s Cay Resort is a 60-acre destination, an upscale family favorite for four or more generations.

Accommodations range from oversize hotel rooms to spacious suites and villas with up to four bedrooms. Do some of your own cooking if you like, and dine out in a choice of eateries including the sophisticated Alma’s, the Beach Grill or Tom’s Harbor House for steaks and seafood. With all the features of an AAA Four Diamond resort, it’s also a member of the Preferred Hotels & Resorts family.

Kids love Hawk’s Cay’s many swimming pools and the big choice of supervised activities for age groups 5 to 9, 9 to 12 and 12 to 17. While other Keys resorts offer sometime programs for children, Camp Hawk offers supervised programs all day, every day. There’s also spa, SNUBA, Segway touring, tennis and tennis instruction, and golf can be arranged. The resort has a long water sports menu including self-drive equipment, crewed offshore sport fishing and guided light tackle fishing inshore.

Marathon, the Keys’ major population center (hospital, supermarkets), offers accommodations in all price ranges plus restaurants, activities and much more. Spend all day at 63-acre Crane Point Museum and Nature Center to hike the trails, see wildlife, learn about life cycles in the Butterfly Garden and see the hospital where more than 6,000 birds have been rescued, treated and, in most cases, returned to the wild.

Island Hoppers helicopter tours leave from the Marathon airport for sightseeing, charters, looking over the Everglades or a trip to Cabbage Key in Pine Isle Sound.

The Key has some small Calusa Indian mounds and a historic resort where you’ll have lunch.

Lower Keys and Key West Some of the best history hunting in the nation is found in Key West, an ideal place to introduce children to pirate lore, old forts, lighthouses, and 20th century historic spots such as the Winter White House. It’s a long drive to the giggle

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trips Quality Inn, Crowne Plaza, Fairfield Inn, Best Western, Days Inn, Travelodge and Doubletree.

If you’re a boater, note that many Keys resorts have marinas.

Cruise in, dock, and use the boat for exploring and fishing while staying in a first class resort. To find a campground for tenting or RVing go to www.floridastateparks.org.

Commercial campgrounds are listed at www.CampFlorida. com. b

At Robbie's Marina in Islamorada, buy buckets of small fish to feed tarpon.

end of the road but many visitors get to Key West without driving the Overseas Highway. The island has air service and is a popular cruise ship stop.

On your first day, take one of the train or trolley tours even if you’ve been here before. It’s good orientation and the drivers’ patter is fast moving, funny and informative. Climb the lighthouse. See butterflies in all their life stages at the Key West Butterfly & Nature Conservatory. Take a sand sculpture workshop. Be on hand for shark and turtle feeding times at the Key West Aquarium.

Ride in a seaplane or high-speed ferry out to Fort Jefferson to explore its dark dungeons and hear its roistering history.

On a one-day trip, bring a picnic and swim gear. If you want to camp overnight, plan carefully because everything must be brought with you.

Sightseeing in Key West could fill days, each of them ending with the sunset ritual at Mallory Square. There are also endless outdoor and sports activities, events and temporary museum exhibits. Through early 2012, a special exhibit at the Key West Museum of Art & History depicts the history of the railroad that ran the length of the Keys from 1912 until it was destroyed in a hurricane in the 1930s. The old bridges and rail bed became the underpinnings for today’s Overseas Highway.

A good choice for a family stay in Key West is the elegant, historic (1920) Casa Marina Waldorf- Astoria Resort. It has two extravagant swimming pools, a choice of dining venues, spa, a long list of watercraft rentals and 1,100 feet of private, sandbox beach. If you have a lucky day angling, the chef will prepare your catch for dinner.

Another good choice is the Westin Sunset Key, a separate island with its own beach, spa, fine dining, activities and fully equipped cottages. It’s cumbersome to take the (free) ferry in and out, but the island setting keeps the family together. The Key is especially popular for family reunions.

Chain hotels on the island include Comfort Inn, Hyatt,

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About the Author Janet Groene is a professional travel writer who lives near Live Oak. She holds the Parenting Publications of America Gold Award for travel writing, has authored many Florida guidebooks and she blogs for campers and RV travelers at (www.) CampAndRVCook.blogspot.com.

u if yo

go! Don't Miss...

Getting there: From Gainesville to

Marathon is under 450 miles, depending on your route, and to Key West it’s under 500 miles. The last leg of the Florida Turnpike between Exits 1 and 47 accepts only electronic toll payments. If you don’t have a Sunpass, get it at one of the turnpike plazas on your way south.

The scenic drive down the Overseas Highway is a treat, but those in a hurry can fly into Marathon and Key West. Also, Greyhound has three departures from Miami Airport to the Keys and a sea ferry runs to Key West from Ft. Myers and Marco Island.

Finding your way

: Addresses in the Keys are expressed in Mile Markers that are clearly displayed along the highway. If you’re going to MM 88.8, it’s 88.8 miles north of Key West. At wider places along the highway, addresses are also indicated as Bayside (Florida Bay) or Oceanside (Atlantic).

For more information: www.FLA-KEYS.com or (800) 352-5397

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bites into a splash and mistakenly grabs a human foot or hand. Humans are only targets of opportunity.

shark tales:

Myth: Sharks never stop swimming.

Distinguishing Fact from Fiction

Myth Busted: Most can’t stop.

They need to constantly have water pushing through their gills in order to breathe. But there are some, like nurse sharks, that can sit still and suck in water, like humans can inhale.

BY CHRISTINA VILA

BY CHRISTINA VILA

Myth: Sharks are the most

dangerous animals in the ocean.

Sharks are apex predators with a very high ecological position on the oceanic food chain. Killer whales are the largest marine predators, and sharks are second only to them. But that being said, humans are the most dangerous animals. We kill more than 100 million sharks a year. In contrast, there were 81 shark attacks last year, the highest number in years.

Sharks have a bad reputation.

Blame their rows of sharp teeth or the images we’ve been fed through movies like “Jaws.” But they’re not all bad, and they’re completely necessary for the ocean environment. George Burgess, a shark biologist and director of the Florida Program for Shark Research at the University of Florida, expels some of our greatest shark fears and busts the many myths that haunt our summer dreams.

Burgess, keeper of the International Shark Attack File and frequent “Shark Week” expert, advocates for the animals many consider mere bullies. While the world sees them as deadly predators that will stop at nothing to bite off an arm or a leg, he sees them as severely misunderstood creatures.

attract a shark.

Myth Busted: It all depends on how close the blood is. In an Olympicsized swimming pool, one drop is enough for a shark to smell. There won’t be a feeding frenzy, but they can detect it.

Sharks will also be more attracted to fish blood than human blood because it’s natural to their environment.

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The larger the shark, the more dangerous it is.

Myth Busted: Bigger sharks can definitely be a bigger threat, but it is not always the case. Any shark over 6 feet in length needs to be considered with concern. They have a greater capacity to do damage.

But some of the biggest sharks (basking, whale, megamouth) are plankton feeders. And there are some sharks, like the cookie-cutter shark, that are small but can rip a hole in its victim.

He can’t help but preach. Somebody has to stand up for the perceived thug of the sea. Like most attacks on humans, this perception is a mere case of mistaken identity. It’d be a bigger story if a man bit a shark. b

for

more info

For more information on shark research and biological profiles on your favorite species, visit http://www.flmnh.ufl.edu/fish/Sharks/ sharks.htm.

Myth: Sharks want to attack people.

Myth Busted: Most shark attacks are a case of mistaken identity.

Occasionally, larger sharks focus on appropriate sizes and behavior for prey.

Humans sometimes follow the activities of regular prey items. Sharks often think it is a school of fish by the surface. Most attacks are hit-and-run, when a shark

Photo courtesy of Kelsey Lynn Photography

Myth: A single drop of blood will

Myth:

George Burgess, Discovery Channel's Shark Week expert.

lovin'

summer

Taming the Storm:

Preparing Your Family for Hurricane Season

BY CHRISTINA VILA

Have an emergency cell phone handy as well. Although landlines may be down, most signals will remain uninterrupted after a storm.

Riding it Out The toughest part of the season can be making your kids feel safe when it feels like the Big Bad Wolf is trying to blow the house down. Be as honest with them as possible so they can understand the importance of the situation.

Florida provides endless fun year round: theme parks, sun, sand and adventure. But there’s a dark side to the weather here, and it can sometimes get a little scary for families.

Hurricane season runs from June 1st through the end of November, with the high season occurring in August and September. Early preparation is key to keeping your family safe.

One way to make this seem more fun is to treat it like a camping trip. Have kids pack away their favorite snacks and games at the beginning of the season along with your essentials. Having their favorite coloring and activity books on hand can make the time pass more quickly. The key is to keep them occupied to they don’t focus on the scariness.

Before the Storm

While having no cable and electricity to fall back on may seem like the end of the world, it can become an incredible bonding experience for families.

Bill Quinlan, a meteorologist on WCJB TV20’s weather team, insists that although North Central Florida may not see a lot of hurricane action, it is always best to be prepared. The biggest threats from storms blowing through the area include trees and limbs being blown over, low-level flooding and occasional tornadoes.

All families should have an emergency kit prepared before storm season starts, Quinlan said. The most basic materials to include in this kit are water and food. There should be one gallon of water per person per day, and enough to last at least five days. Remember to pack nonperishable foods since there won’t be any power. Important documents and cash should also be kept on hand.

Be sure to stock up on important medications (like insulin and heart medication) to last one to two weeks. While it may be possible to leave the house a few days after big emergencies, there is no guarantee that pharmacies will be open or in stock with what you need.

Quinlan also suggests having an extended family emergency plan for those with out-of-state families. Have a single person you will call who will get the word out to everyone else.

Let them know if you will be leaving your house to go to a shelter.

“Contact should be made before the storm gets here,” he said. “It can get very scary if people don’t understand where you’ve gone.”

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“You’re going to have a lot of free time with your kids. Plan activities you can enjoy together,” Quinlan said.

To keep informed while the storm is raging, invest in a small weather radio. Battery-powered televisions are another option, but only if they are compatible with new HD formatting.

The Aftermath Children can be in more danger when wandering the streets after the storm than when they are sitting at home waiting it out. Downed power lines and flooding are a huge threat to their safety. Explain to them the hazards that lurk in destroyed buildings and in innocent-looking puddles.

If serious damage occurs, children may express fear that it can happen again. Make sure to alleviate their fears and allow them to ask questions. The chaos after a storm can be quite daunting for the inexperienced, but getting through it is easier as a family. b

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tip!

For the updates on hurricane season prep, visit the websites for the American Red Cross and FEMA.

Enjoy more family time and leave the cleaning to us.

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the kitchen

frozen summertreats exclusive giggle recipes by JENNIFER CORDOVA

Strawberry-Lemonade Granita

Wonderfully refreshing and full of summer flavor!

1 1/2 cups water 3/4 cup sugar 1 cup lemon juice, (6-8 lemons) 1 lb fresh strawberries, washed and hulled In a small saucepan, combine the water and sugar.

Heat on low, stirring until the sugar is dissolved.

Increase the heat to medium and bring the mixture to a boil for one minute, then set aside off the heat until completely cooled.

easeypops

fruit juic opsicles make it

P ve memade you to ha These ho mical for and all o n o c e d on h easy an rite flavors ! your favo g n lo r e summ l need is: il w u o y All

Combine the sugar syrup, lemon juice and strawberries in a blender and puree until smooth.

Pour the puree through a strainer into a 9 x 13 baking dish, cover with plastic and put in the freezer overnight.

To serve, use a fork to scrape evenly across the frozen mixture. Spoon the icy crystals into individual serving bowls and enjoy!

e Fruit juic ld o m le ic s ld Pop psicle mo

the Po juice into joy!

Pour the rnight. En e v o e z e e fr d an

The Zoku Quick Pop

This easy and quick ice pop maker is sure to be a family favorite. The Zoku Quick Pop™ Maker can freeze ice pops in about 7 minutes without the need for electricity.

Use your favorite ingredients to make yummy treats all your year! www.zokuhome.com

Try coating this delicious treat in chopped nuts or colored sprinkles!

Makes 10 servings 2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips 1 cup heavy cream 5 bananas, cut in half 10 Popsicle sticks

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Line a baking sheet with parchment or wax paper.

To melt the chocolate: put the chips in a small heat-proof mixing bowl and set over a small frying pan with very hot, barely simmering water over medium-low heat. Stir until completely melted, and then take off the heat. Whisk in the heavy cream until the mixture is smooth and glossy.

Insert the Popsicle sticks into each banana half, then dip in the melted chocolate, turning so that they are completely coated. Allow any excess chocolate to drip off and place on the paper-lined baking sheet. Freeze for at least 4 hours.

Food photos by Kelsey Lynn Photography

Chocolate-Dipped Frozen Bananas

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run Annerun!

BY FARRAH PIRKLE

Girls on the Run

is a lifechanging, character development program for girls in 3rd through 8th grade. Their mission is to educate and prepare girls for a lifetime of self-respect and healthy living. They use the power of running to provide girls with the tools to celebrate their bodies, honor their voices, recognize their gifts and activate their personal power.

Launched in 2010, Girls on the Run of Alachua County (GOTRAC), combines training for a 5K (3.1 miles) event with healthy living education. They use exercise, positive reinforcement and encouraging role models to help girls discover the confidence they need in those critical pre-teen years and beyond.

Anne, center, with GOTRAC teammates and coaches.

impressed with her ease around the other girls. She jumped in with two feet and I knew she would be great for the group dynamic. What I didn't predict was how she latched onto the messages and lessons. She was a thoughtful contributor to our discussions and an eager participant in the games. I was most impressed with how supportive she became of the other girls. She embraced the messages and lessons and put them to use. She was so encouraging to some of the other girls, that she even made up a cheer to make them smile and try to do one more lap.”

On April 16, 2011, GOTRAC hosted the New Balance Girls on the Run 5K race as its season-closing race for its spring participants. More than 300 "I'm new to community members ran the race Gainesville and with this spring’s 43 girls and their coaches. The girls came from am still meeting four Gainesville schools: Lawton friends. It was great Chiles Elementary, Glen Springs Elementary, Wiles Elementary and to spend time with the Alachua Learning Center. The race was timed and the top three girls that I did not male and female finishers received know well before. medals following the race.

The top female finisher was not an adult but was 9-year-old Anne Hughes from Lawton Chiles Elementary. You read it right, a 9-year-old participant finished before every other female in the race with a time of 25:37!

I learned a lot from each of the girls and we had so much fun training!"

WHAT WAS YOUR FAVORITE PART OF GOTRAC? I'm new to Gainesville and am still meeting friends. It was great to spend time with girls that I did not know well before. I learned a lot from each of the girls, and we had so much fun training!

WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM PARTICIPATING IN GOTRAC? I learned that there are great people everywhere, and that there are good ways to deal with being a girl and with having friends. I also learned that if you work hard, you can do something that you never thought that you could do!

HOW DID YOU FEEL ABOUT BEING THE FIRST FEMALE TO FINISH THE RACE? I was very happy and surprised! I just kept thinking, ‘MUST catch up with my brothers’ (Jack and Alex). I started sprinting at the end and they were cheering for me when I crossed the finish line. We were so excited when each of our friends finished!

Anne

Anne’s coach, Jennifer Bleiweis, describes Anne as being thoughtful, energetic and determined. She describes her interaction with her team: “When I first met Anne, I was

GOTRAC is an affiliate council of the Gainesville Community Foundation and Girls on the Run International, which was originally founded in 1996 by Molly Barker, an Ironman triathlete. Today, there are nearly 160 locations across the U.S. & Canada, with new locations added each year. If you are interested in learning more, visit www. alachuagotr.org or like them on Facebook at www.facebook. com/gotrac. b

Photo by Lifeprints Photography

Anne moved to Gainesville with her family from Pennsylvania last summer. Physical fitness is very much a part of Anne’s family life and she ran her first of three 5K races when she was just 6 years old. Anne’s mother, Lynn, helped coach her team and is proud of all Anne has gained from her participation with GOTRAC. “It was inspiring to see each girl in our group reach their personal goals during the course of this program and reach out to the other girls in our group in an honest way,” she said.

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We caught up with Anne and asked her a few questions about her experience.

Oh Say, Can You See... by stephanie thomas

How do you celebrate the Fourth of July?

If your answer includes family, friends and fireworks, then you celebrate like the rest of America. Don’t forget about all the great food, too! In 2009, over 76 million Americans participated in some sort of barbecue during the year, most likely occurring on the Fourth.

over $211 million has been spent to import fireworks from China.

fun facts for you

Florida is a leading national producer of

Here are some other about Independence Day.

watermelon, which will be consumed in large amounts on the Fourth!

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There are locations in the United States with “Independence” in their names. The most populous spot is Independence, Mo., with 110,440 residents.

the fourth of july

was not declared a national holiday until 1941.

One of the largest Fourth of July celebrations is a week-long event in Philadelphia with over 3 million in attendance.

Some of the most spectacular firework displays take place in Houston, Texas, Austin, Texas, Boston, Mass., Los Angeles, Calif., Nashville, Tenn. and Washington, D.C.

Macy’s firework display in New

York over the East River resounds over 1,000 booms per minute from more than 35,000 pyrotechnic shells lighting the sky.

see yourself in the

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zoo

ack again, e or come b ething new tim st fir e th ays som rdens.

Come for a ere’s alw because th Jacksonville Zoo and G e th t a e 7 5 se 7 .4463 to

illezoo.org

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p the

legal side

Understanding Your Automobile Insurance

BY SONDRA RANDON, Esq. and TOSHA FERNANDEZ, Esq. Folds & Walker, LLC

D

id you know that there are 646 traffic crashes per day, on average, in the state of Florida? According to the Florida Highway Safety and Motor Vehicles Department, in 2009 there were 235,633 reported traffic crashes which resulted in 197,214 injuries and 2,563 fatalities. Understanding that motor vehicle transportation is a crucial component of our daily lives, it is important to protect ourselves and our loved ones from the financial implications of property damage or medical injuries from a traffic crash. Regardless of whether you are in a “crash” or an “accident,” it is important to understand exactly what the law requires and what your automobile insurance covers.

What are the minimum automobile insurance requirements in Florida? Even if you live part-time in Florida (i.e. snowbirds or half-backs) or just work in Florida, Florida law requires your minimum automobile insurance coverage to include at least $10,000 for Personal Injury Protection (PIP) and $10,000 for Property Damage Liability (PDL) for fourwheeled vehicles registered in Florida. Florida law requires you to maintain PIP/PDL insurance continuously throughout the licensing and registration period.

What does my policy actually cover and what does it all mean? Personal Injury Protection (“PIP”), also known as Florida No-Fault Insurance, pays 80% of the insured’s medical bills related to the accident up to the limits of the policy regardless of who caused the accident. Your PIP coverage protects you as a passenger in someone else's vehicle, as a pedestrian and as a bicyclist so long as you suffer injuries in an accident involving a motor vehicle. You may purchase additional insurance called Medpay to cover the 20% of medical bills not paid by PIP. Property Damage Liability pays for damages to other people’s property an insured driver may cause in an accident involving a motor vehicle.

Bodily Injury Liability pays for serious injuries and death to others caused by an insured, in an accident involving a motor vehicle. Bodily injury liability insurance is not required coverage, but is highly recommended to protect you if you find yourself in the horrible position of having caused injury to another person.

Uninsured Motorist Liability (“UM”) is in addition to PIP coverage and covers serious injuries sustained by the insured and passengers in an accident with an uninsured or underinsured driver who is at fault for the accident. If you

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carry bodily injury liability coverage, your UM coverage may not exceed the coverage limits of your bodily injury coverage.

Collision Coverage pays for any damage to your vehicle resulting from an accident or unilateral collision (i.e. the parked car in front of you). Depending on your policy, collision coverage also may extend to a non-owned vehicle or one rented for personal use that is in your custody or that you are operating. If an uninsured driver causes an accident, your collision coverage will pay for your damage. Also, Pet Injury Coverage is usually part of your collision coverage or property damage liability coverage.

However, some insurance policies expressly exclude coverage of your pet’s injuries.

When do I need legal representation?

If you are sued as a result of an accident, your insurer will defend you in an accident. However, if you are injured by another driver, you are responsible for retaining your own legal representation. If this is the case, it is important to consult an attorney, free of charge, to protect your legal rights.

Words of Wisdom:

• Make sure you have UM coverage. The Insurance Research Council estimated that in 2007, 23% of drivers on the road in Florida are uninsured, making Florida the fifth largest uninsured motorist population in the US. • Always confirm your agent’s representations by reviewing your policy.

• Notify your insurance agent if any licensed, unrelated drivers are living with you, even if it is temporary.

• Never let your coverage lapse. b

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

SAVING MONEY Never felt so

GOOD.

Homes more than 10 years old can really show their age through higher utility bills.

Lower your monthly utility bill and increase comfort with the help of one of GRU’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® Partnering Contractors. They use state-of-the-art tools to conduct a comprehensive evaluation and identify cost-effective home improvements that will improve energy efficiency. At the same time, you’ll be helping to protect the environment.

That’s a savings we can all enjoy.

Choose from one of GRU’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® packages for rebates up to $1,435* and save up to 30% on your energy bill.

To see a list of partnering contractors and learn more about saving with GRU’s Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® program, call 352-334-2118 or visit www.gru.com. *Some restrictions apply.

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•

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Father's Day gifts!

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

VE

IT. WE US

E

Modern cufflinks These square, stainless steel cufflinks keep dad looking poised and polished for a fancy family function. www.2modern.com

iPad speaker dock

If he’s been coveting the newest iPad, this is the best accessory to include. The rotating dock allows you to display the screen portrait or landscape while playing clear and quality sound. Remote control and easy-tocontrol buttons allow clear audio control. www.hammacher.com

the perfect accessory

Album cover sketchbooks The sketchbook covers are crafted directly from original album covers.

Great idea to write a song with dad and keep the lyrics in the book! The pages are made with 100% recycled paper. www.vinylux.net

Shoreditch tie

Straight from the streets of London, this tie embodies the British borough. This pattern is perfect wherever and whenever dad needs a style pick-me-up. www.artfullydisheveled.com

Impervious iPod speaker case

it's a

charger!

If dad enjoys camping or any outdoor sports, this case is perfect to bring tunes on the road.

Any generation iPod will fit into the case and protects the gadget from water or being dropped and knocked. Additional space can fit keys, credit cards, ID cards or other special small toys. www.hammacher.com

for all of daddy's gadgets

This car charger masquerades as a coffee cup that fits perfectly in any standard car cup holster. This gift will recharge the techie dad who always seems to have a low battery. The inverter can power three devices at once. www.redenvelope.com

Record label coasters

Each coaster is created from an original record and will allow a walk down memory lane. Mom will be happy there are less rings on the coffee table, too! www.vinylux.net

Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

Gadget charger for the car

{first-time} dads

for dads. by dads. p

be warned! it's all good.

By chris wilson

There can be a lot of trepidation and anxiety for new fathers, especially for those who have never been around babies. But rather than let the fear win, new dads should look forward to the experience and embrace each passing day. The time will fly by and everyone will realize that, in the end, there was really nothing to fear.

Here are a few helpful tips to get new dads running as soon as those baby booties touch tiny toes.

Hold the baby. Don’t hesitate. The moment you see

that child, you will fall in love and all of the anxiety you had prior to delivery will be gone.

Learn to change diapers before the arrival. A guy can feel silly learning diaper changes on a

doll or asking a friend or relative to teach him how to change a child’s diaper. But, everyone learns best from hand-on experience. Change a few diapers before your child is born and everybody, including mother and child, will benefit from your experience.

If help is needed, just ask for some advice. Hopefully, there are people around who

can provide some wisdom. Whether it’s your own father or father-in-law, a brother or friend who has children or your child’s pediatrician, it’s easier to ask than to guess.

A baby is portable. Remember that it really is not

that hard to take a baby certain places, whether it’s a trip to the grocery store or a weekend getaway. Before most dads know it, they’re chasing that child everywhere. So, take advantage of living while the baby relies on adults to move around.

Don’t forget the honeymoon.

Be a partner to your spouse.

Whether that means handling a couple of 3 a.m. feedings each week or just soothing the crying baby, every bit that you can pitch in will help your spouse recover and maintain sanity.

Housework can always wait until tomorrow.

everyone learns best from

The baby will probably be spoiled, but remember to maintain the romance with your spouse.

If possible, go the extra mile to make Mom feel special and beautiful. It’s possible that Mom will encounter some postpartum depression, feel overwhelmed or she might fret about weight she added during pregnancy. The occasional surprise of flowers or whatever she enjoys most will take a small effort on your part, but will go a long way toward showing how much you care.

hands-on experience

Newborns don’t stay tiny forever, so embrace the time you have. Sometimes picking up chores that are normally not yours is an option. Your family will function much better from flexibility. If something is falling by the wayside, let your spouse know that it’s alright. There will be a period (possibly several months) of adjustment before your family returns to anything resembling normalcy.

Most of all - have fun. There is nothing to fear, especially when it comes to a little crying and a few dirty diapers. b

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magazine • june/july 2011

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Travis W., 34

the

fireman

Husband to Brooke; Father to Carter (20 mo.)

dad

"The moment I saw Carter and heard him cry, I knew that my life had changed forever.

I fell in love with him instantly...I don't know how I ever lived without him."

--Travis W.

In Brooke’s words…I wake up each day and have to pinch myself because I live a fairy tale life. My husband is HOT(!), an awesome dad and has a great work ethic.

He works hard at his three jobs: Firefighter (yep - I told you he was hot!), Fire Instructor at the Fire College and also as a safety consultant; just so that I can stay home with our son. On top of all that, he is also an amazing cook and a clean freak! He helps me around the house and also in the kitchen. He is every woman's dream man! I'm definitely the luckiest girl in Gainesville to have such an amazing husband!

giggle's

2nnudal

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strong

loving

hot!

dads!

Jack F., 40

Husband to Leslee; Father to Jackson (9 ½), Jazmine (8) and Jaylee (2 ½)

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a child at

heart

"My advice to new dads is to 'Do it ALL' - it will bring you the greatest reward you will ever receive, their LOVE! Being a daddy has given me the opportunity to love and be loved beyond what I ever imagined possible." --Jack F.

Photos by Laurel Housden Photography

In Leslee’s words…He is strong, loving, compassionate and a kid at heart. Jack is not afraid to play like a child and goes out of his way to be sure his children come first. Jack works, but makes time to drop off the kids at school and eats lunch in the school cafeteria weekly, volunteer coaches the kids sports teams, attends all plays, awards ceremonies and recitals. He dresses up, allows his daughter to paint his toes, helps sell Girl Scout cookies, gets up with the baby in the night, changes diapers, bathes the kids nightly, runs through the sprinklers in the front yard and jumps on the trampoline. On top of all that he continues to help with dishes, laundry, yard work, vacuuming and dusting - the list is ENDLESS (I could never list it all) and ALL with a smile on his face and the goal of keeping family first.

Rob K., 45

Husband to Fitz; Father to Ginger (8) and Parker (6)

hot

inside + out "...my favorite thing about being a dad: Being in awe of something. Once I grew up,I lost some of that - our kids gave it right back."

--Rob K.

In Fitz’s words…I call him "Daddy Funtime" because he's the king of playing with, creating projects for and taking our kids on outdoor adventures. He giggles with them, teaches them, is brave for them when they're significantly hurt and I can't be.

He's done everything a mother would do as well as a father.

I'm grateful he's a complete parent and not just a standoffish dad, because I know if something happened to me, he'd be able to raise them with all of the love and attention they deserve. And now on to the hotness! Not only does Rob take my breath away every time he walks into a room, he takes it from a lot of others too. We've been married almost 13 years and he still makes me giddy. Most importantly, Rob is the kindest, most hard-working and ethical person I've ever known.

He makes the kids and me better people and if all his good looks faded away…he'd still be the most gorgeous man we know.

hands-on dad

Stan J., 29 Husband to Danielle; Father to Isaiah (5) In Danielle’s words… Stan is an amazing father and husband. He is full of life and joy and brings laughter everywhere he goes. He is always striving to grow and improve.

He does 100% of the laundry as well as most of the cooking at home, but always has time to coach our 5 year-old son in every sport known to man! My wonderful hubby has a heart for youth and is dedicated not only to our family, but also the families in our community. I am so thankful to be married to such a great (and super hot) guy!

youth + his home

Photos by Kelsey Lynn Photography

a heart for

"I love the way my son runs to me yelling 'Daddy!' every time I pick him up. It's my favorite part of the day."

--Stan J.

Arthur A., 27 Husband to Brittney; Father to Parker (2)

In Brittney’s words…After this hottie dad gets home from work after a hard day, he always runs in excitedly to see his son and play with him while I get ready for school.

He does all of the yard work, cooking, dishes and a lot of the cleaning as well while I study in school to be a nurse. If he has to do yard work or anything outside he lets our son ride on his shoulders while he gets the job done. Not only is he nice, caring, smart and funny, he works out every day at the gym during his lunch break so he's muscular too. If you were to see him on the weekends you would probably find him riding 4-wheelers with our son, throwing him into the swimming pool a million times, teaching him to play baseball or pushing him around on his tricycle. He is the perfect dad and hot too!

A complete package!

"For a real man, being a father means stepping up to the plate to embrace a world your never knew existed. If you let your heart fill with love and always put your family first, you’ll never go wrong."--Arthur A.

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lookwhooo'sexpecting!

We’re celebrating not one, but two precious babies on the way! With the beauty of the great outdoors as a backdrop, and gorgeous plants and foliage for dÊcor, our twin baby shower is a woodsy fairy tale event. The oh-so-cute owl theme and a deliciously sweet menu only make this unique celebration more memorable.

look whooo’s having a baby !

sweet

details get creative When arranging the décor for your party, incorporate your theme into every aspect.

We brought in elements of nature, from the outdoor setting to the green moss balls hanging ever so daintily over the porch, to the wood bark that lined the tables. Our adorable owls were scattered throughout the décor.

Giggle tip: When adorable gifts match the theme, add them to the display for a touch of cuteness!

Nestled perfectly on a summery back porch and surrounded by nature, we celebrate the upcoming arrival of twins with an absolutely adorable baby shower. From the amazing food to the precious owls sprinkled in just the right places, giggle magazine sets the perfect scene for a beautiful celebration.

Visit gigglemag.com for exlusive baby shower crafts from Kristy Cardozo

owl

Want to find the gurus of this party?

Paper | Footstone Ink Cakes | Posh Pastry Event Design | ADORE Events Event Design | The Grande Event Photography | Verve Studio Venue | Kanapaha Botanical Gardens

incorporate fun + simple

onesie Miracles Maternity & Children’s Boutique

invite

in style

The invitations should be the guests’ first introduction to the theme of the party.

Make sure to include the basics: who, where, when, and why, but do not forget to add a cute detail that would clue your guests in to what kind of shower it is.

Our owl theme carried over from invitations, to cake, to the game stationery. Keep it fun, light and coordinated! .

games giggle

magazine • june/july 2011

43

French Onion Dip Perfect for chips and fresh vegetables!

Makes 2 cups 2 cups sour cream 1/2 cup minced onion 1 tsp. dried coriander 1 tsp. dried dill 2 tsp. kosher salt freshly ground black pepper, to taste Combine all ingredients in a medium bowl. Season to taste. Cover and refrigerate at least two hours before serving.

Mango Salsa with Cilantro and Red Onion

Delicious and tropical, this salsa is fantastic with tortilla or pita chips. Makes 2 cups 1 small red onion 2 ripe mangoes 1/2 cup minced fresh cilantro 3 tbsp. fresh grapefruit juice kosher salt Peel and finely chop the onion, put in a small bowl and cover with water. Let rest for 15 minutes. Drain and set aside.

Meanwhile, peel and cut the mangoes into a very small dice, place in a medium mixing bowl and add the onion, cilantro and juice. Season to taste with salt.

Cover and refrigerate at least two hours before serving.

Lemon Pastry Pinwheels Easy and elegant! You can also substitute your favorite preserves in place of the lemon curd. Makes 18 pinwheels 2 sheets frozen puff pastry Flour 1/4 cup + 2 Tbsp. prepared lemon curd 1/4 cup milk Sugar Thaw the pastry according to package directions.

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Line two baking sheets with parchment paper.

Lightly dust a large cutting board with flour and lay one piece of puff pastry on it. Using a pizza cutter or sharp knife, cut the pastry into nine even squares. Place the squares on a baking sheet. Repeat with the other sheet of pastry.

To create a pinwheel: use a paring knife to cut a 1/2” from each corner toward the center of each square, splitting each corner in half. Bring every other “half-corner” into the center of the square and very lightly press down, creating a pinwheel shape.

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Place one teaspoon of lemon curd into the center of each pinwheel. Use a pastry brush to brush milk over each pastry (you will not use all the milk) and then sprinkle with sugar.

Bake for 12 minutes, until golden. Cool for 20 minutes before serving.

us a delicio

shoewneur m Cream Cheese Bites with Dates and Toasted Coconut Makes around 25 bites

8 oz. cream cheese 3/4 c. finely chopped dates 1/2 c. shredded, unsweetened coconut In a medium mixing bowl, use a sturdy spoon to blend the cream cheese and dates. Scoop out the mixture with a teaspoon measure and use your hands to shape into a ball. Set onto a plate or some wax paper while you continue with the rest of the bites.

Put the shredded coconut into a small frying pan over medium heat, stirring often. Especially as it begins to color, keep a careful eye on it to make sure it doesn’t burn. When the coconut is nicely golden, take off the heat, put in a flat-bottom bowl and let cool slightly. Roll each bite in the toasted coconut to cover completely.

These can be served immediately; letting them rest for at least an hour allows the sweetness of the dates to permeate the cream cheese. Refrigerate in an airtight container.

Big

Brother Big

Sister The mommy-to-be isn’t the only one

anticipating the arrival of that bundle of joy. The child who will soon gain a new sibling is probably experiencing a wide range of emotions right now.

Whether he is an only child or just the youngest in the family, adding a baby to his world can throw off the balance of his everyday life. Celebrating this change and helping him get excited for his new role can help ease any anxiety he may be feeling.

A party or shower for the new big brother (or sister)

is a wonderful way to prepare him and celebrate the forthcoming changes. Whether you choose to hold the event at a park, kid-friendly restaurant or in your home, make sure your child is the center of attention and not you or your baby bump. Let him wear a special “big brother” shirt or hat and allow him to make some decisions about the get-together.

He can choose, for instance, the menu or the dessert and the games or activities that will take place. Feeling trusted enough to help in the planning is a sure-fire boost of confidence.

the guest list

When making the guest list for the celebration, keep in mind who your child would most want to be there. Your baby shower guest list can include co-workers and rarely-seen relatives, but this occasion should have those whom your child is closest to attending.

It should be a fun, child-centered event (not an office after-hours) that leaves the guest of honor excited and prepared for the new baby’s arrival.

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Baby

Shower By dana kamp

the gifts!

In addition to the big brother shirt, there are other great gifts for this special time. A cute frame for showcasing the first photo of the baby and big brother is always a hit. This can be storebought or handmade by big brother himself! Books or videos whose characters are becoming big brothers or sisters are a fun way for your child to see others in his shoes. Giving a special “big boy” gift (such as an easel or play table) and pointing out that the baby is too little to use it, reaffirms his status in the family and gives him a special place to play when Mommy is busy feeding the baby.

Another gift idea is a “tool kit” for helping with the baby. This can include baby supplies that are safe for a big brother or sister to bring to Mommy or Daddy when help is needed.

Also, depending on the age of your child, a doll or stuffed animal to “take care of” could be a great way for him to feel important and to safely mimic what you are doing for the baby, while avoiding the possible catastrophe of him “helping” by getting the baby out of her crib!

decorating helper We made a big deal about my son choosing a new bedroom theme and décor when we were expecting another child, and this helped tremendously in the transition. He never felt like the baby was taking his place (or his room) because he was happy about the new changes. Several of his big brother gifts coincided with his new room theme, which only made him more excited to move from a baby room to a big boy room, and in turn, from being the baby to the big brother.

However you decide to celebrate, remember to shower your child with love, reassurance and confidence in his upcoming role, so he feels ready to step into his new position in the family. b

showering the

Grandma to-Be don't forget the other newbie!

Becoming a mommy for the first time is one of the most exciting times in a woman’s life. Becoming a grandmother is right up there on the same list. Some women may argue that it’s at the top! So why not celebrate this incredible moment with the grandma-to-be?

Invite her friends and family, by sending an invitation or an Evite, to shower the grandma-to-be! Hold the event at a favorite restaurant, tea room, bed and breakfast or friend’s home. Just like the mommy-to-be’s shower, this celebration should be held before the baby arrives, if possible, so Grandma can get her home ready for that first visit from the new arrival.

It’s probably been awhile since she’s had a baby in her home and she needs some supplies! Honor her new role with some personalized gifts as well. Consider some of these thoughtful gifts:

• Photo brag book or digital photo key chain because you know she’s going to want pictures of her new grandchild close at hand

• Diaper bag or tote of her own; this could be mono-

grammed with her new title (i.e., Grandmommy, Nana, Oma, etc.)

• Portable or small crib so the little one has somewhere

comfortable to sleep when visiting

• “Grandma Survival Kit” with a few diapers, wipes, butt paste, gas drops, pacifier, a laminated card listing soothing techniques (such as a list of the “5 S's” by Dr. Harvey Karp) and a swaddling blanket. You could even do the toddler version of this kit with a few children’s books, set of blocks, boo-boo bunny, Band-aids, Neosporin and a set of toddler pj’s to keep at her house.

• Pretty frame with “New Grandma” or “Grandma and Me” engraved or painted on it

• Gift certificate for a photo session for her and the new baby (what grandma wouldn’t love that?)

• Umbrella stroller so she can cruise the neighborhood and show off the little one

• Bracelet or necklace with a small charm of the baby’s birthstone and room to add more charms as additional grandbabies are born.

No matter how you choose to help the grandma-to-be celebrate, it is sure to be appreciated. She has raised her own children and now gets to see the family tree grow.

She deserves a shower of well-wishes and fun gifts as she steps into this new chapter of her life! b giggle

magazine • june/july 2011

47

Their philosophy of ‘always use the mildest ingredients possible’ has helped Exederm earn the National Eczema Association’s Seal of Approval. Perfect for the sensitive skin of babies. www.exederm.com

1

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perfect for sensitive skin babies These adorable bloomers are available for both boys and girls in a variety of letters and colors.

Miracles Maternity & Children's Boutique

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3

4

Orbit Baby Stroller G2

Comfort, luxury and convenience are what make the Orbit Baby luxury stroller a popular choice among stylish parents.

With its 360 degree rotation, no-pump tires and compact 3D fold, the Orbit is an experience for both parents and babies! www.orbitbaby.com

All babies need a regal utensil for their first meal and this special spoon is adorned with a crown for the newborn.

There’s no other way to commemorate such a special gift than with a dainty pastel pillow. www.organize.com

giggle's ultimate baby

product picks 7

5

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These stylish swaddling blankets by aden+anais are made of muslin and sized for a perfect fit. www.adenandanais.com

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won’t wriggle free on this non-slip changing mat. The material is safe for baby with non-toxic and biodegradable material that will keep you at peace with your new baby’s health. www.zolibaby.com

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Bottle warming on the go has now become available at your fingertips at all times. The yoomi is the creator of the first-ever rechargeable, self-warming baby bottle system. The yoomi heats breast milk and formula to 86-90°F in just 60 seconds. www.yoomi.com

The new bundle of joy

We all know she’s the cutest, but you can’t show it enough—especially in this uniform. This little outfit is all about having fun. www.wrybaby.com

Baby photo by Heidi Mitchell Photography, Product photos by Laurel Housden Photography and Lifeprints Photography

ultimate

diaper bag The gorgeous Sashay Satchel diaper bag by Petunia Pickle Bottom transitions seamlessly from a satchel to backpack and from mommy duty to fun handbag duty. This bag comes in a variety of modern and refreshing patterns. www.petuniapicklebottom.com *Found locally at Miracles Maternity

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Perfectly designed to keep today’s mom organized and stylish, the Amy Michelle Gladiola baby bag comes fully equipped with components galore, stroller attachments and a quick release pacifier holder. Available in a variety of sleek colors. www.amymichelle.com

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Amy Michelle Gladiola

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picks!

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Sashay Satchel Bag

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J.J. Cole Swag Bag

Dadgear Courier

Because today’s dads have to look good while being out and about with their children, the Dadgear Courier diaper bag is perfect for the modern dad. Organized compartments, functional style and comfortable to wear, this hands-free diaper bag is perfect for hours of dad duty. www.dadgear.com

The fashionista mom will go crazy over this J.J. Cole Swag Bag diaper bag. Rich colors and a spacious interior offer a fashionable twist to the diaper bag. Perfect for the on-the-go mom. Available in both silver and gold. www.jjcolecollections.com

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Big items. small budget.

$

$

p heading p giggle dollars

Gear up for parenting without breaking the bank By julia macaluso

Preparing for a new addition to the family should be a joy, but if financial stress is taking away from the experience, take a step back and analyze your approach. We all tend to splurge the first time around, but then we get smart about spending. After all, babies have been growing into healthy children long before the invention of the wipes warmer and without many of the top-dollar products on the market. By following these tips for saving up-front, maybe you can invest in that college fund after all.

Seek out hand-me-downs Have a friend who can’t find space for that crib, high chair, and Johnny Jump her child has outgrown? Offer to take it all off her hands until she’s ready for the next round. Make sure you catalogue where things came from by writing them down in your baby diary or some other safe place.

Thrift, consign and hit the yard sales

Buy online and try off-brands You shouldn’t turn up your nose at generic diapers unless you’ve tried them. Many children have been raised on store brand diapers, and they’ve turned out more than fine!

You can also surf the web for discount diapers that get delivered to your doorstep through websites like diapers.com, where you can get up to twice as much for your money.

This site carries other items as well, such as baby gear, formula and toys. As always, eBay is there for the bidding. Just remember that when browsing for car seats, you’ll want to buy new. Keep eBay in mind later for sporting equipment and hobby items.

Skip out on the sales tax Some online businesses based in states like New Hampshire, Montana, Delaware or Oregon offer goods free of sales tax. Just make sure that the delivery cost doesn’t negate your savings. Though Hawaii is sales tax-free, it’s probably not worth the shipping! b

It’s the right time of year to comb through your local second-hand stores. The spring vites cleaning frenzy has seen Giggle in are sh loads of deliveries to thrift and readers to g consignment shops. In preparation in v their sa for your baby’s arrival, keep an eye out for r n o tips ouage! items like collapsible strollers, nursery decor p k o o Faceb and parenting equipment, like slings. Finance it all by cashing in on outdated items from your own wardrobe.

Remember to be careful when purchasing certain items. Check for recalls on cribs, and expiration dates on car seats (printed on the Ask your favorite consignment store to make it bottom), as heat and age can break down the plastic.

giggle tip!

Room to grow After the onesie stage, don’t get caught up in buying clothes that will only last a couple of months. Go for styles that will grow with your child. For example, overalls with adjustable straps or roomy pants paired with suspenders. And it’s okay to buy a little large.

If pants are initially too long, you can always cuff them to start with, and roll them down as your child grows. Later, when they’re old enough to do some damage, guard against wear and tear in the knees of pants by stitching patches invisibly to the inside of the garment for reinforcement.

a policy to get a crash report on any car seats they accept. A crash can compromise the integrity of the car seat, and it’s good to know where yours is coming from. If you’ve been in a serious crash, rest assured that the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) requires insurance companies to replace car seats free of charge.

giggle

magazine • june/july 2011

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p our heading community’s life savers for every age!

the

store

BY DANA KAMP

Everyone loves getting a deal! Using that BOGO coupon at the grocery store or finding a great sale at your favorite boutique just feels good! When you add little ones to your household, the quest for finding those unbelievable deals can become your number one mission. It may be hard to believe you can find anything worthwhile for only one dollar, but your local dollar store has some pretty great items you may want to check out. We are happy to share some of the best finds from our last trip to the dollar store.

trays fit perfectly in our kitchen drawers to separate fun straws and kiddie utensils from the adult silverware.

Beach Toys | We found a huge selection of

Party Supplies & Favors | Whether for a

colorful beach pails, shovels, sand molds and beach balls.

Whether your summer plans include a trip to the seashore or lazy days playing in the sandbox, you’ll need these summer essentials. At only a dollar each, you can stock up and not panic when that inevitable wave takes one of your shovels out to sea, or Fido buries it in the backyard.

holiday or a birthday party, the napkins, plates, plastic ware and gift wrap are plentiful at the dollar store. I’m always impressed with their great selection of gift bags, especially the oversized ones that would normally cost $5-6 at another store.

We also found small toys, bubbles, stickers and candies that would be terrific favors.

Craft Supplies |

Every home with children must have first aid supplies on hand. Bandages, alcohol wipes and antibacterial salve were available individually or in first aid kits. We picked up a kit to keep in the car, as well as one for the diaper bag.

From construction paper and markers to glitter and pipe cleaners, the dollar store had everything we needed for our rainy afternoon craft time. Foam stickers, googly eyes, and glue sticks all made it into our basket. Arts and craft supplies can be expensive, so we were excited to find so many fun options at such a great deal.

Baskets & Containers |

There were so many different kinds of storage containers and baskets, I didn’t know what to start organizing first. We grabbed two large plastic baskets with multiple holes on either side for our bath toys and pool toys. A small beach pail was perfect for our sidewalk chalk. Fabric boxes were ideal for adding hidden storage to bookshelves. And small wire

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First Aid Kits |

We’ve also found that the inventory at the dollar store is constantly changing, so periodic visits are recommended.

You never know what kind of super deals you’ll stumble upon.

But, we do know it’s guaranteed you’ll walk out with that “I-justgot-a-great-deal!” feeling. b

why I love raising my family in

gainesville

The Silliman Family Brian, Stephanie, Parker (4) and Leah (1)

When we moved to Gainesville, friends asked how we would survive not living on the coast. My husband and I are both marine biologists and usually draw much of our inspiration from living by the ocean. We quickly discovered Gainesville is surrounded by amazing natural landscapes, including places to hike, to play and to find solitude. Not only is there an abundance of parks and natural areas, but also a wonderful community of people living in ways compatible with our environment, and working to promote long-term sustainability in North Central Florida.

Our absolute favorite spot to visit is Payne’s Prairie State Park. It is a totally different experience every time we go, and we always see something new. Our second “absolute favorite spot” are the many natural springs close to Gainesville. As summer heat sets in, the springs really liven up with swimmers and picnickers looking for relief from the intense heat.

I usually start describing Gainesville with images of the amazing trees, then on to the clear water springs, and finally, I get to fantastic local food available. The farmer’s markets are the perfect place to see friends, make new ones, and take advantage of local food at prices that can’t be beat anywhere in town.

Even better, the list of restaurants sourcing their food from local farms is growing, and for someone like me, where local and organic is a top priority, it makes eating out a more exciting venture.

We are also serious blueberry pickers and when the u-picks start welcoming folks to their farms, we get down to business.

Photo by Lifeprints Photography

We also love how the seasons are marked by weekend festivals.

Spring and fall bring a bounty of family-friendly festivals – and some weekends it feels impossible to choose! And when we get tired of festival food, we often find ourselves taking a tour at the Santa Fe Teaching Zoo, or hanging out in the butterfly garden at the Museum of Natural History.

And finally, you cannot forget the ocean. We may not live on the ocean, but we are only a short drive from either coast – close enough to pop out for a nice lunch or afternoon swim. Who says you can’t have it all? 

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

I

have a daughter who will be entering middle school next year. I have been a very active volunteer at her school since she began kindergarten. She recently told me that she does not want me to volunteer at her school anymore because none of her friends’ parents do it. Besides the fact that she broke my heart, I have always enjoyed volunteering and don't want to stop. Can you offer any advice on how I can respect my daughter's wishes but continue to be involved?

You find yourself in a position of many middle school parents - the desire of their children to stay as far away from their parents as possible. Do not feel that you are alone on what feels like your own little island. Many parents are on that island with you and you will remain castaways for the next 3 to 4 years! With that being said, I commend you for taking such an active role at your daughter's school. There are many parents who envy the opportunity to volunteer as close to their child as you do. Your job as a volunteer assists the teachers at the school and allows them to be more effective teachers.

volunteer

behind the scenes

Although volunteering in your daughter’s classroom for the last six years has been rewarding and allows you the opportunity to see your daughter more often, there are many ways that you can continue to volunteer for your daughter’s school without having to be in the classroom. Your daughter’s school should have a Parent Teacher Association or Organization that you can join and become an active member. PTA's or PTO's consist of a board of parents, administrators and teachers all working toward the benefit of the school itself. The board members take an active role in programs, fundraisers, spirit nights, newsletters, holiday gift giving, as well as many other activities.

Their involvement provides the school with educational opportunities, staff development, technology upgrades as well as any requested opportunities from the school faculty.

Schools also have a School Advisory Council (SAC) that works to provide input to the principal providing information about the school improvement plan and the distribution of SAC funds. SAC committees consist of school staff, faculty, administration, parents and local business professionals.

Both of these groups can provide you an outlet to work "behind the scenes" while continuing your desire to remain heavily involved in your daughter’s school. You can help in

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many different ways and not be the visual reminder to your daughter that you are there every day. These groups will also give you the opportunity to work more closely with the school administration and help make decisions for your daughter’s school that will ultimately affect her future.

If you are willing to give your daughter some of the space that she has asked for, but you still want to volunteer, consider staying at the elementary school you have been volunteering at for the last six years. Or, consider another school within the area where you may enjoy volunteering.

There are always children in need of help or assistance and your time with them can help them tremendously! Check with other local schools to see if they have an educational program that needs volunteers to help children succeed.

Although your daughter's wish for you to not be around her at school so often is understood, and you do not want to embarrass her in front of her peers, staying involved is one of the most important things you can do for your daughter!

Your involvement shows her how important she is to you and ultimately, that you care a lot about her and where she spends the majority of her days. If you are able to continue to volunteer, do so! There are plenty of opportunities at her school that will allow you to stay involved and remain an important part of her education. b

in!

ladies’night gainesville moms take a break.

This month, we took our Ladies Night Out… IN! With great friends, yummy food and a great collection of movies and games, a night in can be as much fun as a night out.

If you are hosting the LN-In, make sure you set up something fun to get the hubby and kids out of the house. Dinner and movie or even a play date at a neighboring family’s house for pizza and video games would be a special treat.

No Ladies Night would be complete without great food and drinks. Have all your friends bring their favorite dish, make a dessert bar and have a variety of drink choices. Use cute paper plates and napkins to keep things simple and coordinated and for an easy clean-up.

Photos courtesy of Istockphoto.com

To keep things light and fun, why not give your LN-In a theme? Recipe exchange, cookie party, jewelry making, scrapbooking, Wii night, movie and game night or even a mani-pedi night are all great ideas.

So, with a little planning and a few friends, your LN-In can be a blast!

stay in + have just as much fun at home!

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magazine • june/july 2011

55

Conception toCollege

babies • toddlers • tweens • teens

a pregnancy

a infant/toddler

a early years

a tweens

a teens

Exercising While Pregnant page 58

Car Seats 101 page 60

Little Helpers page 62

Your Child's First Cell Phone page 66

Move to College page 68

p pregnancy

Exercising While You’re

Pregnant

By MEGAN MERKLE, CPT

W

ith so many information sources in the media, many expecting mothers may suddenly find themselves overwhelmed with questions surrounding their pregnancy, specifically when it comes to their exercise routines. What can I do during pregnancy? How soon should I discontinue my exercise routine?

Will exercising hurt my baby? What modifications can I make to maintain my current program? It is widely known that regular exercise positively benefits any woman, but how will it affect your baby?

Clinically, exercise during pregnancy can reduce the incidence of preeclampsia in mothers, a potentially dangerous condition in the mother and child marked by high blood pressure and protein found in urine.

While there is vast research on the benefits of exercise during pregnancy, many mothers still find themselves wondering, what is the best way to exercise while pregnant?

1 2

Pregnant women should avoid contact sports during all trimesters.

For avid trail runners, doctors recommend that women who are pregnant try to avoid excessively rocky or uneven surfaces. Since the joints become very flexible during pregnancy, risk of injury (think ankle sprains) increases.

3 4

While exercising, women should wear supportive footwear to minimize injury and maximize comfort.

Most importantly, women should monitor their hydration levels and nutrition to ensure adequate fluids and fuel are being delivered to their child.

5

Avoiding exercise in hot or humid environments is encouraged when possible, and women should not exercise to the point of exhaustion or dehydration.

Generally speaking, regular exercise can be continued. But what about in the third trimester, when your body begins to change so much that just getting up out of bed requires an act of Congress? Small modifications to your exercises can help minimize any chance of injury to your baby.

Women in their second and third trimesters should typically aim for more non-weight bearing exercise (i.e., biking, swimming, elliptical trainers, etc.) to decrease impact on the joints. During the third trimester, women should avoid doing any exercise that involves lying on your back, as this increases the pressure on the placenta, thereby decreasing blood flow to the child.

Avoid lifting weights over your head, and focus on strengthening the upper torso, specifically the back muscles.

Overall, research suggests a regular exercise program can be very beneficial to both mother and baby. Remember to listen to your body - stay hydrated and stop when you become too fatigued. Wear supportive footwear, avoid dangerous situations and keep your intensity at a low to moderate level, especially in the final weeks.

Continuing your exercise routine during pregnancy can help give you and your baby a happier, healthier beginning. b

Megan Merkle, CPT, is studying Applied Physiology and Kinesiology. She is an ACE certified personal trainer and focuses on weight loss strategies, functional training and metabolic conditioning. Megan enjoys working out, reading, and running with her dog, Olliver.

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Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

a From conception to college

Many research studies have shown that regular, moderate exercise during pregnancy can have positive outcomes for both mother and baby. Babies born to mothers who continued a regular exercise program consistently have a higher muscle mass percentage and less body fat.

Mothers who continue a regular exercise program often report feeling happier, healthier and more confident about their bodies than those who do not exercise while pregnant.

Physicians report that women who have followed a regular exercise program prior to conceiving can typically maintain that exercise program with minor modifications, even up to the very last week! These modifications include the following:

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p infant/toddler ages 0 - 3

New Policy Keeps Infants In Reverse: AAP suggests waiting until a child is 2 years old to move the car seat forward-facing By kelsey mcniel

It’s been about 50 years since the rear-facing child car seat was introduced by the Swedes. And now, the American Academy of Pediatricians (AAP), along with the United States’ National Highway Traffic Safety Association (NHTSA), would like that feat of ingenuity to stay facing the back window a little longer.

In a new policy published in the April 2011 issue of “Pediatrics,” the AAP advises parents to keep children in rear-facing car seats until their second birthday or until they reach the maximum height and weight for the seat. The new tips, which the NHTSA has also adopted, also suggest that parents only use car seats with a five-point harness for toddlers and that children should continue to ride in the back seat until the age of 13 years old.

Despite the inconvenience it may create for parents, or infants with lengthening legs, the new recommendations are based on a wealth of evidence. A 2007 study in the medical journal “Injury Prevention,” for example, demonstrated that children under 2 years old are 75 percent less likely to die or be seriously injured in an auto accident if they are riding in a rear-facing car seat. While pediatricians are encouraged by the decrease in the rate of death for children under age 16 in vehicular accidents, dropping 45 percent between 1997 and 2009, they are actively fighting the statistic that says car crashes are the leading cause of death for children 4 years old and older.

The biggest change in AAP’s policy is in the length of time recommended that parents keep their infants in a rear-facing seat, which decreases the risk of cervical spine injury by cradling the child’s body and spreading the force of a crash over a larger area. The previous set of guidelines, last altered in 2002, suggested that children remain in rear-facing seats until they were 12 months old and 20 pounds. It also did not place as much importance on selecting a seat with a fivepoint harness.

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Shopper

tips

Ready to replace your child’s safety seat? The Insurance

Institute for Highway Safety makes recommendations each year for the best buy in booster seats, after testing the lap and shoulder belts of 72 seats on a 6-yearold sized crash dummy.

Check out their guide at www.iihs.org/research/topics/boosters to find a seat that doesn’t break the bank or your child’s arm.

You can also hop over to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration site, where they’re looking out for parents’ sanity as much as a child’s safety. Every seat on the list meets safety and crash-testing requirements, and they’re further rated based on ease of use, including evaluation of instructions and vehicle installation features. Check it out at www.nhtsa. gov/Safety/Ease-of-Use and spend fewer frustrating hours in the garage.

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

a From conception to college a From conception to college

The most controversial advice from the report by the AAP, composed of 60,000 pediatricians that provide guidance for parents and caregivers, suggests that most children “will need to ride in a belt-positioning booster seat until they have reached 4 feet 9 inches tall and are between 8 and 12 years of age,” according to a press release from the group. That last bit is something any 11-year-old venturing to middle school each day might easily refuse.

The new policy is certainly on the more conservative end of the child car seat laws, which were first put on the books in the mid-1970s. With an estimated nearly 9,000 lives saved since then, each state has come up with their own restrictions for how to keep kids safe. In Wyoming, for example, a child must be in a car seat until they’re 8 years old, versus Florida’s 4 years old and under requirement for the same guideline. b

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p early years ages 3 - 7

Little helpers Teaching Your Kids Responsibility at a Young Age

By SARAH GIBSON

Teaching your kids how to be responsible through doing chores is just as important as teaching them not to run with scissors or to eat Play-Doh. The recommended age that parents should introduce chores to their children is 3 years old, says Diana Joyce, a school psychologist and associate scholar in the Department of Special Education, School Psychology & Early Childhood Studies at the University of Florida.

Determining which chores to give your child depends on their physical development, motor skills and cognitive skills, Joyce says. For a 3-year-old, parents should introduce

t personali

a From conception to college a From conception to college

chores that suit their personality, making the tasks relevant to them. For example, putting their toys back into their toy box, placing dirty clothes in their hamper or simply cleaning up after themselves are tasks that are typically suited for 3-year-olds.

Joyce says it’s important to give them simple tasks at a young age because it is a gradual progression. These chores should be developmentally appropriate, few in number and only take a short amount of time because parents need to take into account their child’s attention span.

At ages 4, 5 and 6, kids may be able to take on cleaning tasks using a smaller broom, hand-held vacuum or duster.

Younger kids need supervision while they do their chores. It also helps a child understand how to do a chore, such as sweeping the kitchen floor, if they can watch their mom or dad perform the job at the same time.

Outdoors, younger children can help their parents with gardening tasks like watering plants.

s choret tha ir e u s it th y

understand the necessity of a chore quite yet.

Visual reminders like chore charts are helpful for seeing the task at hand. Most young children are unable to comprehend words on a chore chart so providing them with big pictures of a chore can help them visualize what doing the task looks like. Another visual reminder, Joyce says, is using tiny, glass jars, with one jar filled with chores that need to be done and the other containing the chores that were completed. Parents can put a picture of a chore on a small block or token for the child to pull from one jar and put into the next. This manual movement of the blocks or tokens will help younger kids understand the completion of a task and feel a sense of accomplishment.

Rewarding accomplishments is not recommended. When it comes to incentives for kids to do chores, parents should give them praise and recognition and not a reward, especially not in monetary form. Children should be taught the importance of contributing to the family without compensation. Joyce says it is recommended that children not be given a monetary reward like an allowance until they are able to understand the concept of money and how to differentiate its various forms. “Money has to have a cognitive meaning for them,” Joyce says, before they should be rewarded with it.

Parents with multiple kids closer in age Joyce says by age 7 kids should be able to understand could try rotating the chores among them the concept of sorting and categorizing, like separating light so there isn’t a repetitive feeling. Kids will and dark colors in their laundry and organizing their bookshelf be able to determine which chores they or dresser in their bedroom. Supervised gardening like pulling weeds is an outdoor task they may be capable of doing. are best at and which ones they prefer.

Verbal and visual reminders of chores help Sorting laundry or loading the dishwasher can be tedious tasks for kids, so why not kids establish them as habits. Verbal prompting for doing a chore may be required because a child may not try making them fun? Apply a time limit 62 giggle

Continued on page 65

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Continued from page 62

to doing a chore and have your child try to “beat the clock.” Kids may be more willing to add onto their chore list if they see that it is possible to have fun while doing their jobs.

Research performed by a former associate professor of family education at the University of Minnesota, Marty Rossmann, suggests that children who partake in household chores at a young age are more successful as adults because they learned the meaning of responsibility. Her in-depth study included examining 84 young adults’ involvement in chores during specific times of their lives. Rossmann determined that the best indicator of success among adults in their mid-20s was that they started doing chores at 3 or 4 years old. Young adults who did not start doing chores until they were learnin 15 or 16 were found to be less “successful.” She g measured success with factors like the person’s th meanine education background and their relationships with g of friends and family.

responsibili ty

Teaching kids responsibility through doing chores at a young age is beneficial to their future. This lesson is necessary for them to be able to fit into different social situations they are put in, including working with others. Joyce says teaching them to take control, be self-directed and meet personal goals will build their self esteem as they get older. b

p tweens ages 8 - 12

your child's first

cell phone Consider a contract between parents and tweens

By ALLYSON FOX

Today nearly everyone is attached to his or her cell phone.

Whether you are going to a doctor’s appointment, the movies or even just a quick trip to the grocery store, you are almost guaranteed to have your cell phone in your pocket. But with a cell phone comes many responsibilities that need to be discussed with your children before providing them with one of their own.

Today, about 75 percent of 12-to 17-year-olds own a cell phone, which has increased from 45 percent in 2004, according to a Pew Research Center study. And some parents provide their children with a cell phone as young as 8 or 9 years old, said Larry Forthun, assistant professor of human development at the University of Florida. A parent may provide his child with a cell phone at a young age for safety reasons.

Evan Hawes, a licensed marriage and family therapist, says parents should consider their child’s maturity when determining whether they are ready for a cell phone. If an 8-year-old child proves that he is responsible, for example, by remembering to call and check in when he spends the night at a friend’s house, he may be ready for a cell phone.

Forthun recommends that parents set up guidelines prior to providing a tween with a cell phone, but how strict the guidelines are is a personal preference and varies from parent to parent. Creating a cell phone contract between a parent and child may be a successful way to set boundaries.

A contract allows parents to express "Today about rtheir expectations for their child’s ea -y 17 75% of 12- to use of a cell phone. If this is done olds own a at the beginning, the contract may " be more successful.

cell phone

Parents should first decide what the phone will be used for, Hawes recommends. Is it for emergencies only?

Or can your child use it freely? Other things to consider are

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If the phone has access to the Internet, a tween needs to understand that the same issues on Internet safety, including cyber bullying on social networking websites and the ability to view inappropriate content, also apply to the cell phone.

Forthun adds that it is important to allow your child to be involved in the contract conversation. Your child should express his concerns, and the rules should be formed together.

If your child helps select the rules and consequences, he will be more likely to follow the rules.

But Hawes believes that it is important that a consequence fits the action. If you just take the cell phone away, your child will not understand what he did wrong, and he will likely make the same mistake again. If a child breaks the contract by using too many minutes, consider reducing the amount of time that the child is allowed to be on the phone.

When the bill arrives, a parent should monitor how his child has been using the phone. Forthun recommends sitting down with the cell phone bill and discussing your concerns.

According to a Pew Research Center study, 64 percent of parents monitor the way their children use their cell phones.

“You have to be clear about what your expectations are as a parent,” Hawes says. Together, parents and tweens can establish family rules, and consequences for breaking those rules, regarding the privilege and responsibilities that come with cell phone use. b

Photo courtesy Istockphoto.com

aaFrom college Fromconception conception toto college

If you have a tween who is constantly on the go with extracurricular activities or who is searching for a job, a cell phone will keep you in close contact. “Sometimes it’s just for parents’ piece of mind and safety,” Forthun adds.

the parental controls you plan to enforce, such as whether you want to activate the GPS to locate your child. It is also important to discuss appropriate times to use the phone. For example, should it be left at home during school or just turned off?

p teens

ages 13 -18

Organizing your teen's move to

afraid to call or email them. I am fortunate that my daughter's college is so small that it is very easy to get ahold of them and speak to someone. In our on-campus parent briefing, they (the financial aid office especially) reminded us that they are there to help us and want to be our friends; they are not the enemy! They want our children to succeed and want to make sure our questions are answered. Make friends with them...it will help you get a lot more sleep at night.

College

Keep all important dates you need to remember written on a calendar or day planner. With financial aid due dates, housing registration and deposits, visitation days, class registration, move-in day, orientations, etc., you don't want to forget anything. Write everything down.

By RACHEL PAXTON

S

ending your teen off to college in the fall?

There are a lot of things to think about before your son or daughter leaves home. A little planning and organization can go a long way in reducing the stress the next couple of months may bring.

One of the things you will need to decide is whether or not your teen will be taking a vehicle to college. Some families decide it is just not cost effective to send their teen off to college with a car. It helps if your teen is going to a college where a friend or two will also be attending. If carpooling home is an option, then your teen may very well not need a car at school. Some colleges also charge an additional fee for student parking.

Our daughter is attending a small private college and no one from our area is attending her school, so that has made carpooling not an option. We opted to let her take a car with her so we wouldn't be constantly driving back and forth. Her college does not charge additional parking fees, so that has worked out great for us.

The summer before your teen leaves for college is a great time to go through her wardrobe and decide what she will be taking with her to college. Remember she (or you) will likely be hauling this stuff back and forth in the car, so be realistic in what she will be taking with her. This is also a great time to donate unwanted clothing to charity or consign it for some extra cash. You also need to keep in mind differences in climate.

Our daughter moved from a hot, dry area to

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Sometime during the summer your teen may be finding out who her roommate is going to be next year. This is a great time

to start a relationship with the roommate-to-be. My daughter spoke to her roommate several times on the phone and emailed her back and forth before they actually met in person. When they finally did meet they felt like they already knew each other, so that made the "moving in" transition a whole lot easier for my daughter. This is also a great time to decide who will bring what. You won't need two refrigerators, telephones, etc. My daughter even shared her stereo with her roommate.

You will be receiving a suggested list of items to send to college with your teen.

Again, don't take more than will fit in your car...you don't want to have to rent a U-Haul!

If you and/or your teen have a chance to visit the college before your teen moves in to the dorm, make sure to take a look at one of the dorm rooms. If you can do it during a preview day, you will be able to see one that someone is currently living in and see how it is arranged and how much room your teen will have.

If you have any questions you want to ask the college, about anything at all, don't be

Take advantage of visitation days, if possible.

This helps your teen become accustomed to the campus and makes her transition to her new surroundings much easier. My daughter was even able to stay overnight in the dorms with a student. You can often arrange a visit even if you are not attending a scheduled visitation day.

Become familiar with hotels/motels in the area of the college if you will be visiting very often. Prices definitely vary, so call around or check online for the best prices. Make sure to make your reservations ahead of time...other college parents will be making reservations too.

One last thing to think about is sending spending money to college with your teen.

Most parents agree that it is fine to send your teen some spending money, but remember they will spend as much as you send them (and then want more)! For Christmas and birthdays, family members give our daughter gift cards for clothing and Starbucks gift cards and she loves it. She doesn't need anything else anyway; where is she going to put it!? b Rachel Paxton is a freelance writer and mom who is the author of “What's for Dinner?�, an e-cookbook containing more than 250 quick and easy dinner ideas. For more recipes, gardening, organizing tips, home decorating, holiday hints, and more, visit Creative Homemaking at www. creativehomemaking.com. Reprinted with permission.

Photo courtesy Istockphoto.com

Fromconception conception toto college aaFrom college

First of all, congratulations on your teen's college acceptance! It's a big step just choosing a college, applying, and then waiting expectantly for that college acceptance letter.

an area that is cool and rainy. She definitely needed to take a raincoat and umbrella.

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organizing the

playroom Does it seem that no matter how much space your children have for toys, it’s never enough? Or are the toys never put away long enough for anyone to walk safely through the playroom?

Most families face both problems. Here are a few strategies to guarantee there’s room to play in the playroom!

R purging toys Start by purging toys and games that are obviously broken, or dusty from disuse. Older children probably can verbalize their likes and dislikes. Younger children generally have a harder time parting even with infrequently used items. Tuck a few away in a closet to see if they are missed. Donate them if a couple of weeks pass without comment.

Gather up unclaimed bits and pieces. If they don’t immediately present possibilities for craft projects or for seasonal activities, recycle them so someone else can repurpose them.

R less is more Remember that less is more. Children who have too many toys in their environment have trouble keeping their focus, resulting in shorter and less satisfying periods of play.

R get down on the floor!

Go down on your knees, to child height. Look around and pretend that you have just been asked to clean up. Do you see enough storage space within a young child’s reach? Are there bins or baskets to hold various groupings of toys, such as vehicles, crafts, dolls, books, and Legos? Ask the children for their ideas about where favorite toys should be placed to be both accessible and easy to put away. Aim for simple solutions.

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

Photo courtesy of Istockphoto.com

Establish a clean-up schedule that suits your household and stick to it. Make picking up fun and dispense honest praise for a job well done. Don’t give up on implementing this routine. Eventually it will take hold and the playroom will be ready for play! b

familyht

spotlig

Delaney Rua A Small Town's Big Star by christina vila

We often find it hard to grasp why catastrophes happen.

We become so consumed in the tragedy that we lose sight of what is truly important – the fact that there are people in dire need of assistance after being uprooted, trying to survive past their misfortune. Sometimes we have a light to guide us, a beacon of hope found in unlikely places.

When the earthquake and tsunami struck Japan on March 11, 12-year-old Delaney Rua stepped up when she felt a call to action alive in her heart. Stars for Sendai started as a small project. Delaney was making paper stars the weekend of the disaster when she got the idea to somehow raise money through this origami project.

A passion for helping her community is nothing new to Delaney. A budding philanthropist, the Gainesville Kiwanis named Delaney Citizen of the Year only two years ago. At 11, she was feeding the homeless at the St. Francis House as well as volunteering at her local library.

Named for the city nearest the epicenter of the earthquake, Stars for Sendai launched into a neighborhood initiative.

Delaney’s friends bombarded her with stars they had made

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change will come."

on their own in order to help her move along with the project. Her family also spent their share of time folding, even making stars during a family dinner at a restaurant.

To date, Delaney and company have made more than 1,000 paper origami stars. Donations reached $200 in no time, and have totaled almost $500 since then.

All proceeds go to the Japanese Red Cross in order to ensure that the money is going directly where it can be applied best.

Along with her charitable works, Delaney has somehow found time to add entrepreneur, inventor and entertainer to her resume. At the age of 8, she invented “The Chrysalis,” a kid’s modular backpack that included a pocket against your back that could hold water, cushions or massage modules. DJ’s Designs, her first company, handled digital graphics and paper-to-digital picture archiving. She and her sister host a kid-focused online show, The Awesome Web Show. The site gets thousands of views from around the world. The balancing act continues as she never falls behind at school and attends practice for lacrosse and swimming. She dedicates the weekdays to schoolwork, handling her origami project on the weekends.

It’s impossible to predict when Japan will see major improvements. But through efforts like Delaney’s, change will come. Even the smallest assistance can make a huge difference. If you are interested in supporting Delaney and her Stars for Sendai project, you can visit her website at http:// www.causes.com/causes/591278-delaney-s-stars-for-sendaia-gainesville-charity-cause. b

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

Her zeal has never waned.

Armed with slivers of paper and an unyielding passion to help others, Delaney became a star-making machine. She walked around her neighborhood with a basket full of stars, asking neighbors to donate money to benefit those affected in Japan. In exchange for their donation, she would give them a star or two.

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Calendar of Events

June 19

June Aquarium Month + Candy Month!

Father’s Day June 24 CARS 2 movie opens nationwide

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June 4

Yulee Railroad Days

9 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

FREE Yulee Railroad Days has been celebrated the first weekend in June, beginning in 2004. The linear festival follows the route of the historic cross-state Florida Railroad, and an array of events showcases the rich historical, cultural and natural attractions of the heart of North Florida. Activities include: Native American village, Pow Wow and Walk Through Time, cannon blasts @ "Civil War" re-enactors camp, arts & crafts, Gainesville HOGs, multicultural foods, railroad museum, U.S. Victory Museum, plus a patriotic parade and live music.

Archer Depot, downtown Archer, FL www.yuleerailroaddays.org June 15 Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows: Part 2 opens nationwide June 18

Family Day at the Harn

1 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

FREE Exhibition Focus: The Mind’s Eye: 50 Years of Photography by Jerry Uelsmann.

Take a family-friendly tour of current exhibitions and participate in art activities.

UF Cultural Plaza: SW 34th Street & Hull Rd, Gainesville, FL 32611 (352) 392-9826 www.harn.ufl.edu

JuLY

Blueberry Month Hot Dog Month Ice Cream Month July 3

Williston’s Independence Day Celebration Admission and rides are FREE $2 parking donation for cars Show-stopping parade, festival and a spectacular fireworks display July 4

Independence Day July 4

Alachua 4th of July Celebration

The City of Alachua has dubbed its celebration "The Largest Small Town Fireworks Display in America.” There are dozens of activities for the kids, including a petting zoo, bounce houses and water slides. For the adult audience there are several unique vendors, bingo contests, dancing groups, live musical entertainment and more.

July 4

June July

Micanopy 4th of July Parade

Fish fry, parade and fireworks in historic Micanopy.

Over 1,000 listings for kids’

activities around Alachua County

p familiar little faces a Big thank you for your support of the March of Dimes

some casting call cuties from our March of Dimes fundraiser

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

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p heading

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