Gulf Coast Family - November 2018

November 2018

Vol. 11 Issue 11

C e l e b ra t e A d Dungy Diaries: Are You Tough?  p. 11

Thanksgiving Fun p. 9

o p tion Q&A With Jim Daly p. 34

p. 2 4

Phothteo of Month

“Let our hearts be full of both Thanks and Giving”

Publisher: Editor: Contributing Editor: Designer: Web Developer:

Rodney Beck Jennifer Beck Linda Crumley Michael Crumley Matthew Crumley

For advertising opportunities: sales@gulfcoastfamily.org © Gulf Coast Family Publications 2018

Gulf Coast Family Publications P.O. Box 3803, Seminole, FL 33775 Phone: (727) 612-0783 Fax: (727) 865-5135 Gulf Coast Family Newspaper is printed monthly, and is distributed throughout Pinellas and Hillsborough Counties. Gulf Coast Family is available in distribution racks in many local Chick-fil-a restaurants, McDonald’s, CVS Stores, R-Clubs, Walgreens, Joto’s Pizzerias, Carmelita’s, After Hours Pediatrics, Cornerstone Banks, LA Fitness, Shapes, and Regions Banks in these counties, along with many other restaurants, shopping centers, churches, libraries, government offices, and over 200 day care centers and schools. For questions or comments, call (727) 612-0783 or email rbeck@gulfcoastfamily.org.

Emma

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Gulf Coast Family Publications encourages your input. To comment on one of our articles or to submit photos and articles for possible publication, simply email articles@gulfcoastfamily.org. Submission of your photos and letters constitutes permission to Gulf Coast Family Publications, publisher of the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper, to use them in all media. All submissions become the property of Gulf Coast Family Publications and will not be returned. We reserve the right to edit as necessary, and all submissions will be used at our discretion.

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November 2018 • 3

November 2018

28

PCS Education Spotlight

to Parent 6 Parent

by Jennifer Beck

7 Movie Night November We 8 This Recommend That You… Fun 9 Thanksgiving by iMom.com

14 Kids in the Kitchen 16 It’s Great to Create!

Hearts, Helpful 17 Thankful Hands

by Glazer Children’s Museum

Accidents 18 Rideshare

by Chris Reynolds

Pro Dad: Say Thank You to 19 Heart Gallery 10 All Your Kids Spotlight

by AllProDad.com 20 Species

by ZooTampa at Lowry Park Diaries: Are You Tough?

11 Dungy

by Tony Dungy, AllProDad.com Tropical Garden 21 The

by Jené VanButsel 12 Family Night Out Coupons Family Table 22 The

by Leanne Ely (The Dinner Diva)

“Shopping is ALWAYS a

23 Give Thanks 24 Celebrate Adoption

31

How to Start the Afternoon on the Right Foot

Things I Wish We Had 24 10 Known Before Adopting

by Paul Batura

33 Building Community on the Family 34 Focus

by Jim Daly

for Another Checkup?

26 Ready Your Marriage

by Judy Adorno 37 Improve Through Thankfulness

by Janine Petry Importance of 27 The Tummy Time Subvert Self-Image 38 Selfies

by Maureen Wyns

by PluggedIn.com Education Spotlight 28 PCS 39 November Quiz

by Pinellas County Schools 40 November Fun Facts Than Just a Volunteer, 30 More a Mentor and a Mom the Night of 41 Remembering Broken Glass Through Music to Start the Afternoon 31 How on the Right Foot 42 November 2018 Events by iMom.com 45 Weekender to Keep Pets Happy and 32 Tips Healthy 46 Reader Photos of the Month

by Tammy Vasquez 47 In the Next Issue

good idea!”

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Reader Photos of the Month

4 • November 2018

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November 2018 • 5

evenly). I also have an electric turkey roaster that can hold up to a 9- by 13-inch pan. But it’s pretty bulky, and the only place that it can fit and reach an outlet is on the floor, so I don’t pull it out if I don’t have to.

“ With four kids, three

Parent to Parent My oven has been broken for oh… about two and a half years now. Since the number one use of an oven in my home has always been for baking chocolate chip cookies, that probably is not a bad thing for my waistline.

We’ve gotten by without it for so long because of a few key factors. For one thing, we eat out a lot.

Maybe even more now that the oven is broken, but we did so before that too. With four kids, three of whom are picky eaters, it’s just a lot easier than cooking! Another thing that has helped is that we have a tiny side oven that does still work. It can only hold an 8-inch square pan (or two of them in a pinch, but that blocks the air flow so that food doesn’t cook

of whom are picky eaters, it’s just a lot easier than cooking! ”

Since the oven is broken for the third straight November now, I brought up my annual suggestion that we should go to Cracker Barrel for our Thanksgiving Dinner. As usual, my husband is totally on board. Not only would it save him from doing a whole bunch of dishes, but also, the more we eat out, the less I bug him about getting the regular oven fixed. And the cost is pretty comparable to cooking a big feast at home, at least if you leave leftovers out of the calculation.

So my little 8-inch oven is probably going to need some serious time management skills. The turkey roaster can handle the turkey, but at a minimum, that little oven will be needed for stuffing (my oldest is a vegetarian, so we can’t even save space by putting that in the turkey), macaroni and cheese and bread or rolls. Thank goodness my kids are okay with Cracker Barrel pies!

Wishing all of you a blessed Thanksgiving.

Until next time,

Jennifer

But also as usual, our kids are strenuously opposed to the idea. Apparently, we take them out to restaurants too often, because they think eating at home is for special occasions or something!

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November 2018 • 7

This November we recommend that you…

READ IT

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EXPERIENCE IT

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SEE IT The Piano Guys Live – Christmas Together Ruth Eckerd Hall

The Piano Guys return to Clearwater after their sold-out Ruth Eckerd Hall debut in 2017! They’ve made over 50 music videos since early 2011, including their hit video, an innovative multihanded version of One Direction’s What Makes You Beautiful and a gorgeous reinvention of the hit song Let It Go from Disney’s Frozen. It’s the Guys’ highly original blend of classical music and pop that has been the cause of an Internet phenomenon.

Along with their obvious will to inspire young and old, it is their endearing personalities that keep the fans coming back for more.

ICE! is back at Gaylord Palms with an all-new theme featuring the beloved classic holiday movie A Christmas Story. Watch this hilarious family tale come to life through interactive ice sculptures and displays. Experience iconic scenes such as The Old Man’s Major Award, Aunt Clara’s pink nightmare and the ultimate triple dog dare at the school’s flagpole. Everything is handcarved from two million pounds of ice.

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IMOM.COM

Thanksgiving Day is for fun, food, and football. So when the food is enjoyed and the football is over (or the score is out of reach), it is time for fun! We have some creative activities for kids and adults alike…rain, shine, or snow.

• Pin the tail on the turkey. Have your kids draw a turkey with a missing feather and feathered “tails” to take its place. Put a piece of tape on each tail and see who can get closest to the spot of the missing feather.

• If it’s warm enough, head outside.

Have three-legged races, play a “Pass the sweet potato” relay, or have a turkey trot race where everyone has to strut like a turkey.

To make it even more fun, give out a trophy every year to the big winner.

Inscribe the year and winner’s name and have them bring back the trophy next Thanksgiving to hand off to the next winner.

• If you’re stuck inside, play board games. Have a chess tournament, a monopoly marathon, or play Pictionary.

• Get a spiral notebook or journal.

Write the date and have everyone write down what they’re most thankful for from the past year. Make it a tradition. Bring out the book every year and add new memories.

• Give each person a clothes pin to wear. Each time someone says “Christmas,” “holiday,” or “Thanksgiving,” they have to give up their pin. The person with the most pins wins.

• Decorating cookies isn’t just for Christmas. Prebake some sugar or gingerbread cookies. Have a decorating station where the kids and adults can decorate Thanksgivingthemed cookies.

• Have everyone bring a toiletry item (comb, brush, razor), snack food, or other small gift to pack up to send to a soldier overseas.

• Write down the names of everyone at your Thanksgiving dinner on slips of paper. Draw a name and tell what you’re most thankful for in that person.

• Read the story of the Mayflower or the first Thanksgiving. Better yet, act it out!

• Have a blank card or have the children make a card. Have everyone sign it and mail it to a family member or a friend who couldn’t join you.

Find more Thanksgiving ideas at: www.imom.com

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November 2018 • 9

“Thank you” Those two words are some of the most powerful words you can say to your kids. My guess is we can all say that a little more. And I’m not talking about only when they do something you’ve asked them to do. I’m talking about thanking them just for being them.

I try to say it to my kids as much as possible, and when I do, the smile on their face can light up a city block. When I say it to our 8-year-old, he seems to be part surprised, part flattered, but most of all, loved. It’s important to let your kids know you are thankful for them in your lives and that you appreciate your family.

My life wouldn’t be the same without my kids. They need to know that. Sometimes our reactions to the things our kids do, or even the sacrifices we make for them, can make it look like they are a distraction. They aren’t and we need to communicate that consistently. For this month’s basic training, here are 5 ways to say thank you to your kids for being your kids.

thing physical, he feels loved and appreciated. Try it with your kids.

1 Just say it.

Our daughter loves to just hangout with either one of us. Thanking her can be as simple as just spending some quality alone time, where she gets all of us.

As dads, sometimes, it’s tough to find the right words.

“Thank you” are two powerful words you can say to your kids.

2 Give a card or gift.

Some dads are better putting words on paper, or even in gift form. Do a random act of thanks and give your kids something that says I appreciate you.

3 Get physical.

My love language is physical touch and at least one of our three kids share the same love language. When I hug him, high five him, give him a fist bump, or any-

4 Do something.

Sometimes saying thanks is helping them complete a task they are struggling with. Or even relieving them of the task. This small act can let them know you are thankful for them and their effort and you want to show it by helping complete it.

5 Hang out with them.

No matter how you say thank you to your kids, just say it. Saying thank you can come in many different forms. It doesn’t matter how you say—the important thing is you do say it.

Sound Off: How does it make your kids feel when you say thank you to your kids?

Huddle up with your kids and say “One reason I am thankful for you is _____________________.” ©2015 All Pro Dad. All Rights Reserved. Family First, All Pro Dad, iMOM, and Family Minute with Mark Merrill are registered trademarks.

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Are You TOUGH? DUNGY DIARIES

by Tony Dungy

I was talking about hardships with James Brown, the studio host of The NFL on CBS. He said that he has been called an “overnight success,” and then he shook his head and laughed. “Yeah. After the first twenty years of toiling, sure . . . then it was overnight.”

To me, this shows toughness and mental strength. NFL players so often talk about being “tough,” but I’m not sure they grasp what that truly means. In my opinion, this is what defines whether you are tough or not.

How You Respond To Adversity Toughness is shown in how you respond to adversity. Can you respond without losing your footing and your direction? If so, that shows me that you’re tough. Life is messy. We don’t always get a happy ending, and sometimes the middle isn’t so happy either. You never really know how tough people are until they encounter the rough spots. We’re all tough when things are going our way. We’re all tough when we’re getting the breaks. That’s easy.

“

Showing Determination But the truly tough man is the one who stays grounded in his values and focused on his goals when things are challenging.

When things in life don’t go according to plan, the tough man will exhibit a determination to reach his goal no matter the obstacles.

Having Mental Endurance As a coach, I tried to give our players some latitude and allow them to fail so they could learn to respond to problems and then grow. Toughness, even on the field, is more appropriately thought of as mental, not physical endurance.

Being Made Uncommon People often ask the question, “Why does God allow bad things to happen to good people?” Obviously, there are no easy answers to that question. But I do know this: God is constantly working in us through it all, molding and shaping us into what He created us to be; and it’s in the valleys of our failures where He is working the hardest, making us into something uncommon.

Toughness is shown in how you respond to

adversity

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”

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

November 2018 • 11

We all know that eating out often can add up! So, it’s important to know where the best deals are for the family. Here are some great places in the Tampa Bay area that are family friendly and are offering some great specials.

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November 2018 • 13

in the kitchen

This is a delicious pumpkin cake recipe that gives you a wonderful alternative to the same old pumpkin pie at holiday dinners. Moist and flavourful, the pumpkin flavour shines through and is perfect smothered in whipped cream.

Crustless Pumpkin Pie

• 4 eggs • 2 teaspoons pumpkin pie spice • 1 cup chopped nuts • 15-ounce can pumpkin • 1 teaspoon salt • 1 cup butter • 12-ounce can evaporated milk • 18 ½ ounce package yellow • Whipped topping, chopped • 1 ½ cups sugar cake mix nuts, cinnamon 1. Beat together eggs, pumpkin, milk, sugar, spice, and salt until thoroughly mixed 2. Pour mixture into an ungreased 9 x 13 inch pan and sprinkle cake mix and nuts over top 3. Melt butter and drizzle over cake mix 4. Bake at 350 degrees for 60 to 75 minutes 5. Top with whipped topping and nuts, and sprinkle with cinnamon

Cool Kids Cook

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What’s not to love about this? Potatoes, cheese, and bacon. More, please! This recipe is sure to warm you up this November and it couldn’t be easier. It’s just the right choice for lunch, dinner or late night snacks and odds are, you probably already have everything at the house.

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Potato Puffs • 4-ounce package instant potatoes, or 2 to 3 cups leftover mashed potatoes • ½ cup shredded cheddar cheese

• ½ cup bacon bits • Paprika

1. If using instant potatoes, prepare according to package directions and let cool 2. Stir cheese into potatoes 3. Roll into 1-1/2 inch balls and roll in bacon bits 4.

Arrange on an ungreased baking sheet and sprinkle with paprika

5.

Bake at 375 degrees for 15 to 18 minutes

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November 2018 • 15

“A” Schools

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Turkey T-shirt

Items Needed: Brown T-shirt • Large package of assorted felt / fabric sheets • Scissors • Fabric Glue – Spray can works best

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Caring Teachers

1. Cut out the tail feathers from the felt sheets. Use a variety of colors, but make feathers all the same size.

2. Cut out the eyes, the beak, and the snoods.

3. Spray each feather with fabric glue. Arrange the feathers on the back of the T-shirt, working from the outside in – on both sides.

4. Glue the eyes, beak and snoods onto the front of the T-shirt.

5. Let the glue dry and you are all set for your Thanksgiving fun!

The school will add a grade a year in subsequent years

Pumpkin Turkey Table Topper

Items Needed: Little pumpkin • Brown foam sheet • Yellow foam sheet • Red foam sheet • Artificial fall leaves • Googly eyes • Hot glue gun • Scissors

16 • November 2018

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

1. Cut out the body parts of the turkey: head and feet from brown foam, the beak from the yellow foam, and the “snoods” from the red foam.

2. Using your hot glue gun, glue the back of the head to the stem of the pumpkin.

3. Glue the feet to the base of the pumpkin and the beak and snoods to the head.

4. Glue the googly eyes above the beak.

5. Arrange the leaves in a fan pattern and then glue together.

Then glue the leaves to the back of the pumpkin to make the tail feathers.

6. Place on the table and you are all set! www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Thankful Hearts, Helpful Hands Many parents want to raise thankful children. They prompt their little ones to say “thank you” when possible and feel embarrassed when a child tosses aside a gift or grumbles that the gift isn’t exactly right. But in wishing our children to be thankful, it’s important to keep in mind their developmental level before asking too much of them.

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by Glazer Children’s Museum

All children start out being self-centered. This isn’t because they are bad, but just a natural part of their development. Understanding the emotions and perspectives of another person generally is not part of a child’s world until they start school (around 6-7 years old). You are unlikely to get genuine gratitude from a toddler. Most young children will say “thank you” because it makes adults happy. But there are ways to help develop gratitude in your children that are developmentally appropriate and realistic.

If your child doesn’t offer thanks on his or her own, tell him, “I like it when you say thank you.” Positive reinforcement is a great way to encourage behavior. Gentle reminders are fine – “What do we say?” – but even better is to share the opportunity to be thankful together. “Let’s both thank Aunt Ginny for the toy.” If your toddler won’t join in, be courteous for him. “He’s a bit shy right now, but I’m sure he is very thankful for your gift.” Later, explain that it makes people feel good to hear thank you’s.

Start by showing your children that you are thankful for them. Loving attention to your children and other people in your life helps kids model empathy. Also, show your appreciation to others. Be clear about what you are grateful for – “Thank you so much for helping me load the groceries into the car.”

As children grow, encourage them to help others. Don’t shy away from hard truths about poverty or hunger, and let your child assist with your voluntarism and charity. Let them do things for others, and receive thanks for it.

This will have the dual effect of reinforcing how nice it is to be thanked, and also helping them

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see how good their life might be.

And finally, don’t save all your thanks for Thanksgiving! Whatever your traditions, take time as a family to talk about what you are thankful for, and do it often. This encourages everyone in the family (parents too!) to be grateful for all the wonderful things and people in our lives. By modeling your own gratitude for others, you will raise children who are gracious and thankful.

November 2018 • 17

Rideshare Accidents

by Chris Reynolds

Taxi and cab car accident cases have been a common form of negligence in the Tampa Bay area for many years. However, with the power of modern technology, new methods of transportation have become common.

Ridesharing companies such as Uber and Lyft now fill our roadways. These companies operate similar to a regular taxi, except that they allow automobile owners to use their personal vehicles as a taxi service for other individuals.

Riders can request the trip in advance by booking at the mobile application installed on a mobile device such as a smartphone. Upon booking, the driver receives the request and picks up the requestor from his or her location.

However, drivers are still humans who are prone to making mistakes and subject to possible harm. Just like any other taxi service, there are rideshare drivers who drive poorly and cause accidents. Uber and Lyft drivers can be minimally insured, so this leaves possible victims of car accident feeling helpless and without assistance

means that even if a ride-share company is okay with letting drivers use their personal insurance for liability coverage, your ride may not be covered.

In 2014, Uber announced that they would provide $1 million in coverage for passengers, drivers, and any other person injured by an accident that occurs during an Uber ride. Lyft has a similar policy.

However, don’t be fooled by this large insurance policy, because it may not actually apply to your individual situation.

You may have to use your own insurance for your injuries. In the event that a driver’s auto insurance doesn’t cover your injuries in a ride-share accident, you would then look to your own auto insurance company to cover your injuries. However, if you have a minimal policy, this option might not be of any help.

The Uber/Lyft drivers’ personal auto insurance doesn’t cover ridesharing. Most personal auto insurance policies explicitly state that they do not cover accidents that occur when the policyholder was driving in a commercial capacity for a profit. That

So, you can look to the Uber/Lyft additional coverage, but unfortunately that coverage might not actually cover you. Most ride-share services state that they offer up to $1 million in additional coverage when their drivers’ insurance falls short. Unfortunately, these insurance policies might not cover certain important things, like underinsured motorists or your medical bills.

Further, Ride-share companies such as Uber and Lyft may try to separate themselves from drivers who are between fares.

Accordingly, any injuries that result from a ride-sharing service are extremely complicated, so it is important that injured parties seek counsel from an attorney to help navigate through these complex situations.

Mr. Reynolds hails from St. Petersburg, graduated from Northside Christian High School, Eckerd College, and Stetson University College of Law. He lives in Pinellas with his wife and three boys, all of whom attend Keswick Christian School. Mr. Reynolds also has parents living in Pinellas County and a sister who recently returned from overseas as a Christian missionary.

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A’Miracle Age 17

Caring and loving, A’Miracle says she’s not like most teens, she’s weird and that’s what makes her unique. But what she’s proudest of is her courage.

A’Miracle is happiest when she’s around confident, authentic people. If she could change the world, A’Miracle would put an end to racism. For fun, A’Miracle enjoys working out, reading and shopping.

She also enjoys watching her favorite show, Vampire Diaries. In school, A’Miracle’s favorite subject is English, where she likes to write short stories. A’Miracle’s favorite food is steak, but no bread and butter or beans, please. When she gets older, A’Miracle would like to be an actress and an entrepreneur. A’Miracle also hopes to have poodle one day.

Photo courtesy of Jonathan R Photography

WITH COMPASSION

Automobile Accidents Slip and Fall Wrongful Death Pedestrian Injuries Motorcycle Accidents

A’Miracle’s ideal forever family would have a mom and dad.

Siblings are also OK. Even though A’Miracle’s 18th birthday is in January, she’s still holding out hope to find a forever family.

Dehvyn Age 7

Photo courtesy of Angel Gray Photography

COMPENSATION

Dehvyn’s goal is to be the best kid ever. Being a good kid, smart and kind will help him in his dream job of being a police officer when he grows up.

Known also to be helpful, Dehvyn likes when he receives rewards for his good behavior, especially if the award is Hot Takis.

Though Dehvyn enjoys the spicy snack, his favorite foods are peanut butter and tacos. But he’s not a fan of blue icing on sweet treats, cupcakes or cakes. For fun, Dehvyn likes riding his bicycle, playing outside and swimming. He’s also a dedicated football fan, especially when his two favorite teams, the Jacksonville Jaguars and New Orleans Saints, are playing.

Dehvyn is also a big fan of Goosebumps. He’s happiest when he gets to watch the movie and marvel at his favorite character, Slappy the Dummy. Dehvyn’s favorite artist is even, Goosebumps writer, R.L. Stein. But if Dehvyn could have a super power, he wants to be a web-slinger, like Spider-Man. In school Dehvyn’s favorite subjects are math and reading. Dehvyn wants a small cat as a pet, but he has a special place in his heart for sharks. He especially loves when it’s Shark Week on the Discovery Channel.

For more information about the Heart Gallery visit www.heartgallerykids.org or call 727-258-4806.

November 2018 • 19

Aldabra Giant Tortoise Native to the Aldabra Atoll, an island north of Madagascar, Aldabras are the last giant tortoise species in the eastern hemisphere. Not only are they large in size, the Aldabra tortoises have enormous personalities to match.

ZooTampa is home to 5 adult Aldabra tortoises – the males, Al and Bruce, and the females named Dabby, Sligh, and Scooter.

Each of the Aldabra tortoises has a unique personality and they are not afraid to show it off! Al and Bruce are the most eager of the group and will stretch out their necks to receive scratches! Al fancies himself as the

dominant male within the group and enjoys socializing with staff and guests alike. Bruce also enjoys getting scratches, however he really loves soaking in the middle of the pool he claims as his own. Dabby and Scooter don’t mind scratches, but would really rather be with a fresh cut branch from a mulberry tree. Sligh, however, loves bulldozing across the yard as a determined, yet aimless, wanderer.

Each day, the Zoo invites guests to interact with these tortoises and to take a “shell-fie” during a special Aldabra tortoise encounter.

Be incredible!

Zoo University at ZooTampa November 29, 2018 – 4:30 p.m. – Savanna Oasis

November is Manatee Awareness Month! ZooTampa works to rescue, rehabilitate and release Florida manatees.

Enjoy speakers from our Florida mammal team that helps rehabilitate them at our very own David A. Straz, Jr. Manatee Critical Care Center. There’s no better way to celebrate this special month than learning about these native Floridians and how we can help!

Send Christmas flower arrangements or gifts to St. Petersburg, FL or nationwide with Hamiltons Florist. We have a wide selection of wreaths, centerpieces and bouquets for Christmas decoration and Christmas gifts!

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classicalconversations.com/incredible 20 • November 2018

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November 2018 • 21

The Family Table

Don’t let kids leave home without manners

By Leanne Ely (The Dinner Diva)

It is one thing to have a vision for your family; it’s another thing to have a perfect vision for your family. through his gravy.

This will most assuredly cause great distress to the person whose plate you have desecrated and the person in charge of laundry.

Take the family dinner table (please! as some exasperated families might exclaim). This is a great way to reconnect as a family, feed and nurture souls and make sure that your family is making the mark nutritionally. But a problem arises when the maker of the family meal (usually Mom) has visions of Norman Rockwell family dinners dancing in her head like proverbial sugar plums.

Let’s cut to the chase, shall we? Those Norman Rockwell pictures were paintings, not actual snapshots taken in someone’s real home. This was Norman’s exercise in fantasy caught on canvas — not the real deal.

If your family is anything like mine, your children are likely to be the conductors of all manner of unseemly behavior that would make a grown man’s eyes water.

You know what I’m talking about — wiping their mouths on their sleeves and putting such large forkfuls of food in their mouths that knowing the Heimlich maneuver is essential just to survive until breakfast the next day.

The question is — how do we bring up these children of ours to not be social misfits and ne’er-do-wells at the dinner table?

The real answer to decent table manners lies with the parents. Children must be trained, and part of that training is from example. Here are a few dinner table rules to consider for everyone involved:

22 • November 2018

• The words “please” and “thank you” have not been stricken from the English language. Use them liberally.

• Put your napkin on your lap. It requires very little energy to do so and will endear you forever to the hostess.

• Wait for the blessing, if one is said. If you want to blow away the hostess, wait for her to sit down and pick up her fork.

• If you find you must spit something out, it is better to use your napkin than to gross out the entire table with the big wad of unchewable meat you pulled out with your hands and perched on the side of your plate.

It is also unnecessary to make an announcement about your finding.

• If there is something big and green stuck in someone’s teeth at the table, make inconspicuous hand gestures to notify him or her. Again, loud announcements of this sort are completely unnecessary. Likewise, if there is something big and green stuck in your teeth and someone gestures to you about it, kindly ask to be excused and take care of it out of view. Using a fork tine, credit card or even toothpick to dislodge the intruder is highly frowned upon.

• If you are drinking something from a glass or enjoying your soup, it is preferable to do so silently.

It is unnerving to well-mannered guests to listen to five people slurp soup at the same time.

For some reason, manners aren’t taught as quickly as they are caught. Becoming vigilant with dinner table habits will serve everyone in the family well.

Manners are a common ground that helps to establish the dinner table as an enjoyable place to be. Use them, and they will serve you. Forget about them, and they (or the lack of them) will embarrass you. It is a simple thing that costs nothing and yet could cost everything in a social setting.

• It is better to ask your table mate to pass something to you than reach across him and drag your sleeve

Manners are essential: Don’t let your children leave home without them.

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www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Give Thanks

S

ince the Pilgrims observed the initial Thanksgiving holiday in 1621, this occasion has served as a singular expression of the transcending spiritual values that played an instrumental part in the founding of our country.

One hundred and twenty years ago, in the midst of a great and terrible civil conflict, President Lincoln formally proclaimed a national day of Thanksgiving to remind those “insensible to the ever watchful providence of almighty God” of this Nation’s bounty and greatness. Several days after the dedication of the Gettysburg battlefield, the United States celebrated its first national Thanksgiving. Every year since then, our Nation has faithfully continued this tradition. The time has come once again to proclaim a day of thanksgiving, an occasion for Americans to express gratitude to their God and their country.

In his remarks at Gettysburg, President Lincoln referred to ours as a Nation “under God.” We rejoice in the fact that, while we have maintained separate institutions of church and state over our 200 years of freedom, we have at the same time preserved reverence for spiritual beliefs. Although we are a pluralistic society, the giving of thanks can be a true bond of unity among our people. We can unite in gratitude for our individual freedoms and individual faiths. We can be united in gratitude for our Nation’s peace and prosperity when so many in this world have neither.

As was written in the first Thanksgiving Proclamation 120 years ago, “No human counsel hath devised nor hath any mortal hand worked out these great things. They are the gracious gifts of the Most High God.” God has blessed America and her people, and it is appropriate we recognize this bounty.

– Ronald Reagan, Sept. 15, 1983

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November 2018 • 23

10 Things I Wish W Known Before Ad On a blustery evening in March 2005, just days after experiencing our latest miscarriage, my wife, Julie, and I received a call from a friend. After some initial small talk, he posed a question that changed the course of our lives.

A young, unmarried friend of their family was five months pregnant and looking to make an adoption plan.

Might we be interested?

We immediately said yes!

Did you know that there are over 687,000 children and youth throughout the United States currently in foster care and about 1/3 of those children are waiting for adoptive families.

November is National Adoption Month, a month set aside each year to raise awareness about the adoption of children and youth from foster care. In his proclamation recognizing National Adoption Month, the President reminds us that all children deserve a safe, loving family to protect and care for them. “Adoption is a blessing for all involved. It provides needed relief to birth parents, who may not, for whatever reason, be in a position to raise a child. It fosters loving homes for children. It enables individuals to grow their families and share their love.

And it fosters strong families, which are integral to ensuring strong communities and a resilient country.”

If you are interested in learning more about the waiting children here in our area, we encourage you to contact the Heart Gallery at (866) 233-0790.

At the time, we had no idea how the next four months would unfold. Although a few of our friends had adopted internationally, we were still relatively unfamiliar with the process, especially when it came to domestic adoption.

To me, adoption was something that happened to somebody else, and most often in a movie, a book or on television.

Today, 13 years and three adoptions later, I’ve often thought about how helpful it would have been to know then what we know now. Here are 10 things we’ve learned about adoption. Granted, this list might make the journey seem daunting, but let me assure you, it’s worth it!

1

T he adoption process is hard, but it’s good.

There were plenty of ups and downs in the months between our friend’s phone call and our son Riley’s birth. If you’re the kind of person who likes everything neat and predictable (like me), you’re going to have to let that go. Almost every adoption discussion involves more questions than answers. There will be good days and bad days. Every placement is unique because every child is unique.

24 • November 2018

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We Had dopting 2

By Paul Batura

9

P atience is a necessity.

That picture-perfect, stress-free, smile-filled meeting between the adoptive parents and their new son or daughter – the one you see in the movies? That may happen eventually, but before it does there are mountains of paperwork, interviews, financial disclosures, difficult decisions, home visits, parent training, CPR classes, fingerprints and waiting. Lots of waiting. If you’re the type of person who likes to run the show, you’ll again need to make some adjustments. The Lord may be in control of the process, but the birthparents and agency are also in the driver’s seat.

3

D on’t let the cost scare you away.

It’s easy to be discouraged when you read that the average cost of adoption is more than $40,000. While it can certainly be expensive, there are many different types of adoption and not every placement costs even close to that amount. Private and agency adoptions tend to be the most expensive, but the federal adoption tax credit is significant. Adopting from foster care, meanwhile, is often less than $2,000. Low-interest loans are also available. In the end, don’t be afraid to ask for help. Lots of families hold creative fundraisers, and many people enjoy giving to such a worthy cause.

4

D on’t keep your desire to adopt a secret.

While families adopt for a variety of reasons, infertility is a common motivator. Although it’s a very personal and intimate matter, resist the urge to keep quiet about it. Adoption placements occur through family and friends of friends, so the more people who know of your interest to adopt, the greater your chances of being matched with a child.

5

A candid family profile can make all the difference.

Everyone wants to put their best foot forward when putting together their adoption profile, but don’t be afraid to be vulnerable and down-to-earth. Most birthparents appreciate authenticity. Sometimes it’s the little things: One caseworker told us about a birth mom who chose a family because they had a black Labrador retriever. “I want my daughter to have what I had growing up,” the mother said.

6

A good attorney is worth the expense.

Skilled legal counsel is invaluable. Some adoption agencies have attorneys, but they’re responsible for www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Y es, you can love them just as much.

Partially out of ignorance and admittedly out of pride, I was initially determined to do whatever my wife and I could to conceive a child naturally. I liked the idea of having a child with our DNA and our characteristics.

After all, it was President Ronald Reagan who famously said that having a daughter “was like watching your wife grow up all over again.” Yet I’m so thankful that God had other plans. Had we conceived biological children, we likely never would have adopted the three boys we now have the privilege of raising. representing the agency, not necessarily your family.

With our third adoption, a complex out-of-state placement, our attorney’s advice at a key turning point helped prevent the entire process from falling part.

Lawyers might not be cheap, but good ones are worth every penny.

7

D on’t be intimidated by an open adoption.

The thought of maintaining an ongoing relationship with our eldest son’s birthparents put a lump in my throat. What if his mother didn’t like me or my wife?

What if our son liked her more than us? Open adoption is increasingly common, and while it’s not possible or even wise for every placement – especially those involving adoption from foster care – it can still be tremendously rewarding.

8

D on’t be overly sensitive.

Adoptive families still represent a relatively small demographic, so many people aren’t quite sure what to say when discussing the topic. It’s important to remember that most people mean well, even if they say the wrong thing. For example, we’ve had people ask about our boys’ “real” parents. And since two of our sons are Hispanic, we’ve had people ask if they’re brothers, which of course they are, though not biological. In the end, cut people some slack. If I’m honest, I probably made some of the same mistakes before becoming an adoptive parent.

10

R eal life can be awkward, and that’s OK.

When I grew up, TV shows were mostly wholesome and innocent. I came to subconsciously believe that most challenges in life could be solved in 30 minutes or less. Of course, real life is unpredictable. Real life involves awkward and difficult moments. In the midst of adopting three children, I’ve come to realize that some of my most invigorating, faith-filled moments came on the heels of some of the most stressful circumstances surrounding adoption.

In such moments, I’m reminded that we weren’t created to handle life’s challenges alone.“My grace is sufficient for you,” the Lord said to Paul, “for my power is made perfect in weakness”.

Indeed, the Lord’s grace is sufficient in our parenting pursuits, whether we’re raising biological children or forming our family through the gift of adoption.

Paul J. Batura is the vice president of communications for Focus on the Family. He is the author of Chosen for Greatness: How Adoption Changes the World.

Chosen for Greatness profiles 16 well-known adoptees who were given the opportunity to change history for the better when they were taken in by their new families. Their contributions and accomplishments span the spectrum from science to sports, religion to entertainment, technology to politics.

To purchase Paul Batura’s most recent book, visit www.amazon.com or www.focusonthefamily.com To advertise, call 727-612-0783

November 2018 • 25

Ready for Another Checkup?

1. How do you best prefer to communicate with me? (Email? Phone? Text? Notes?)

by Judy Adorno,

2. What do you see as my child’s strengths?

Director St. Petersburg Sylvan Learning Center Ready for another checkup? Only this checkup isn’t at the doctor’s office, it’s at your child’s school.

It’s parent teacher conference time.

Did you know that parental involvement is a strong predictor of academic success? Teachers want you to attend conferences and be involved in your children’s school lives. This is an exciting opportunity for both you and the teacher.

To make the most of this opportunity, here are ten important questions to ask during a parent teacher conference. The goal is that by asking these questions, you will get a better understanding of how your child is doing in school and the values and beliefs of your child’s teacher, which will both be extremely valuable as the school year continues.

QUESTIONS TO ASK DURING PARENT TEACHER CONFERENCES

3. What do you think are the academic challenges for my child?

4. What would you do if my child were struggling academically with something?

5. How is my child doing socially?

6. How do you support kids in their social development? For example, how do you address challenges that happen at recess?

7. Is my child on grade level for reading?

What about math, science and writing?

8. How does the school handle standardized testing and prep for those tests?

9. Can we talk more about your homework policy and how my child is doing with homework?

If you are concerned about something, start with a positive comment first such as “thank you for taking the time to meet with me today.” Then use an “I message” such as “I’m concerned” to bring up the topic. Also, be sure to tell the teacher what you’re doing at home to solve the problem. That will show your intent to work with the teacher to find the best solution for your child.

Above all, remember to keep your conference friendly and positive. Just like the old adage says, you’ll catch more flies with honey than vinegar. Be positive and solution-oriented.

You and your child’s teacher can be a strong team of support for your child. Make this checkup a helpful stepping-stone in a successful parent-school partnership.

For more educational resources for children in grades pre-K through 12, please visit www.SylvanLearning.com or call 1-800-31-SUCCESS.

10. What can I do at home to support what you’re doing in the classroom?

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Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

The Importance of

Tummy Time

by Maureen Wyns

I recently had an occupational therapist come to our school and do a training with our preschool and school-aged teachers regarding movement in the classroom. One part of the training came across to me so strongly, I feel the need to share it. It’s the importance of tummy time with newborns through the crawling stage. “Tummy time” is time that the baby spends on his/her tummy while awake and supervised.

Interestingly, many babies slept on their tummies until 1992. That is when the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) promoted babies sleeping on their backs in an effort to decrease the amount of Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS). While “tummy up” sleeping is the only recommended way to put a baby down to sleep (something that most parents rightfully follow); pediatricians are also recommending supervised “tummy time.”

Unfortunately, from my experience, parents are not taking this recommendation as seriously as they could, or should. Even recently I have talked with two grandparents about their grandchildren having flat spots on their skulls; something called positional plagiocephaly.

What are some of the benefits of tummy time, you ask? Tummy time makes a baby’s core, neck and shoulder muscles stronger so the baby can reach the milestones of lifting his/ her head, turning over, crawling and sitting up. It also improves an infant’s motor muscles as the baby reaches and grasps toys. Additionally, it prevents positional plagiocephaly, flat spots, on the back of the head.

Many babies don’t like tummy time at first. It’s something that they are not used to since parents today place babies on their back (again, the proper position during bedtime). Babies may find it hard work to keep their heads up

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as they gaze at the world around them.

But be patient with your little one; the strength your child builds will be well worth the early growing pains.

Start with just a few minutes at a time, but make it often throughout the day.

You can place the baby on their tummy and spend some time interacting as you spend “tummy time” together.

Get down to eye level with your baby and sing songs, place colorful toys around to encourage eye exploration.

Your baby will reach for the objects.

You can also try placing the baby face down on your tummy or on your lap.

It is your time to stop and play with the baby.

Since tummy time should always take place under a parent’s supervision; take advantage of the time with your child. This time together will not only build healthy dexterity, curiosity, and muscle strength but also healthy attachment and connection between you and your infant.

Parents may want to develop a routine such as a few minutes of tummy time after every diaper change. Over time the baby will get stronger and enjoy this routine. Although this message might sound simple, it’s also important, because when babies are delayed or skip milestones it often affects their development, learning, and success down the road. So give it a try! Supervised tummy time with your baby can open a new world of exploration for your little one all while promoting healthy attachment, stronger muscles, and another step toward the next development milestone.

Maureen Wyns received her Master’s degree from the University of South Florida.

She taught hearing impaired students before becoming the founder and principal of Cornerstone Christian School in Dunedin, Florida for 17 years. Maureen is married and the mother of three children.

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November is Family Engagement in Education Month High school students honored at the Word and Image Exhibition

November is Family Engagement in Education Month and the district is celebrating the vital role parents and families play in education. When schools work together with families to support learning, children are more motivated to succeed in school and life.

“Families and the community must be an integral part of the learning community in our schools,” said Dr. Valerie Brimm, the director of the Office of Strategic Partnerships Family and Community Relations. “Deliberate connectedness that is linked to learning is paramount to student achievement.”

Sixty-seven students were honored at the High School Word and Image Exhibition ceremony on Saturday, Oct. 27, at the Morean Arts Center.

The annual exhibition combines art and writing into one work of art. This year’s theme is “If….”

Students created a work of art and written personal narrative that align with the theme. Their artwork will be on display through Dec. 2 at the Morean Arts Center, 719 Central Ave. in St. Petersburg.

The following students received top awards: Award of Excellence:

• Shadine Henry, 12th grade, Lakewood High, Teacher: Jayce Ganchou • Ashley Ross, 11th grade, Osceola Fund High, Teacher: Brianne Gates • Maia Latherow, 12th grade, Palm Harbor U High, Teacher: Jay Titus

Pinellas County Art Education Association Young Artist Award:

• Madison Cash, 10th grade, Palm Harbor U High, Teacher: Wipoj Huse

28 • November 2018

Parent Power!

Be attentive. – Discipline should be appropriate and consistent. Provide them with an opportunity to correct behavior.

Be precise. – Provide clear and direct instructions.

All parents believe that children can and will succeed. Parents are the bridge to that success. Be mindful of mistakes. – Look over work and You can accomplish this by taking these steps: help him or her correct any errors.

Be responsible. – Make education a priority in your home.

Be diligent. – Work with your child and teacher(s) throughout the year.

Be committed. – Continue supporting your child throughout the year.

Be innovative. – Keep learning lively and dynamic.

Be positive. – Provide positive feedback.

BE THERE. – Just be there for your child - to answer questions, listen, to give advice, and to encourage. Be there to support your child whenever needed.

Be patient. – Show your child that you care through your commitment and encouragement.

Three PCS educators receive recognition from SHAPE Florida Teachers from Lakewood High and Nina Harris Exceptional Student Education Center were recently honored for exemplary performance as physical education teachers and sports

educators at the SHAPE Florida convention in Kissimmee.

The award winners are: • High School Physical Education Teacher of the Year - Chantella Moore, Lakewood High School

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

• Sport Educator of the Year - Cory Moore, Lakewood High School • Adapted Physical Education Teacher of the Year - Jodi Oberer, Nina Harris ESE

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November 2018 • 29

More Than Just a Volunteer, a Mentor and a Mom Special Olympics Florida is honored to announce the selection of Pamela Fazio of Manatee County as the 2018 Bill Crutchfield Award recipient.

The Bill Crutchfield Award is given annually to an individual volunteer that demonstrates outstanding and distinguished service at the county or area level in the state. The award is named after the first director of Special Olympics Florida who was a dynamic and positive influence upon the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. This is Fazio’s second time receiving the Bill Crutchfield Award.

For 26 years, Fazio has volunteered with Special Olympics and is currently the County Director for Manatee County. She coaches multiple sports, including bocce, bowling, and swimming, and in addition to her county service she also acts as an Area Training Director, managing training schools for athletes and coaches.

“She goes above and beyond for our Special Olympics athletes. She is a truly amazing woman and no matter

what is going on in her life, she is always there for our program,” said Joni Burnett, Special Olympics Florida Coach. “She has displayed outstanding leadership qualities at the county and area level. Her coaching provides year-round sports training for our athletes to work on physical fitness and experience competition.”

Fazio oversees more than 300 athletes in Manatee County, but one athlete drew her to start volunteering for Special Olympics years ago — her daughter, Melissa.

“When she was born, they told me she would be a vegetable, she would never walk or talk or do anything.

But, she has grown and flourished so much from the experience in participating in Special Olympics programs,” said Fazio.

When the Fazio family moved from Pennsylvania to Florida, they decided to join Special Olympics, but had no idea the impact it would have on their lives. Since joining, her daughter Melissa, trains and competes in 4 different sports and is part of Athlete Leadership — a long ways away from the first prognosis doctors gave her when she was born.

“I consider Special Olympics as a family. I have passion for this program, and I don’t know what I would do without Special Olympics in my life. The athletes keep bringing you back and wanting to do more for them.”

Currently, there are more than 31,000 Special Olympics volunteers throughout Florida.

Learn more about becoming a volunteer at www.specialolympicsflorida.org/get-involved/ become-a-volunteer/

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Sign Language and My Signing Toys Go Hand in Hand

The world can be a tough place full of bullies, difficult math tests, and scraped knees. And if you’re a kid having a bad day at school – all of that can happen before lunchtime! So give your kids a soft place to land in the afternoon by greeting them with a smile and some occasional fun.

If you pick them up from school, try to put away your distractions before they hop in the car. Put away your cell phone, and don’t make any calls on the way home. In fact, go the entire way without picking up your phone at stoplights to check your messages. And, if you really want to kick your afternoon off on the right foot, have them keep their electronics put away too.

Here are 7 ideas for a great after-school afternoon.

1. Prepare yourself mentally to pick them up. Clear your mind of work and other things so that you can truly focus on your kids and their needs.

2. Turn off the radio in the car or, at least, turn it down, so you can have

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Debbie created My Signing Toys after her first grandson was born deaf to a hearing family. The toys assist new hearing parents to learn, play, and teach their pre-verbal infants/toddlers to use Baby Sign Language before speaking, enhancing bonding and communication.

These toys will provide playful support to parents and families of the deaf, autistic, or down syndrome babies.

3. Every now and then, take the long way home. Pick up a smoothie or a milkshake to make the toughest of days seem sweeter. Stop off at the park for a little swing time or bring a blanket and sit by a river or lake.

4. If your kids ride the bus, have a great snack waiting on them. They’re always starving after school (Some classes eat lunch at 11 a.m. or earlier.)

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5. Establish an afternoon routine so your kids generally know what to expect. It might be an hour for snack and free time, then sitting down to tackle homework around 4 or 4:30 p.m. If they do homework at the kitchen bar, you can help while you get dinner going.

6. Resist the urge to demand a grade report from them the minute they walk in or get in the car. This sends the message that they are their performance. Asking about other aspects of their day says, “You matter most.”

7. Don’t forget to give big bear hugs to each and every child. Even the ones who make funny faces and pretend to hate it are getting their “love tank” filled with that squeeze! (The iMom Hug a Day Ideas** printable has some fun hugs to try!)

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November 2018 • 31

TIPS TO KEEP PETS HAPPY AND HEALTHY Just as you can become tense and stressed out by your daily life, so too can your dog or cat. And pet anxiety is not only unpleasant for your pet and potentially damaging to your home and belongings; it can also lead to a host of other health and wellness problems.

With some simple lifestyle tweaks however, you can make scratching, digging, clawing, whining and crying a thing of the past. Here are some tips to reduce your dog or cat’s anxiety and make their life, and yours, a bit more comfortable:

KEEP PETS ACTIVE

“Often, the source of a pet’s anxiety is lack of activity,” says Brian Atkinson, Director of Pet Training at Invisible Fence Brand. “Whether you have a dog or cat, regular exercise is crucial for a happy, anxiety-free pet.”

Be sure to give pets plenty of opportunities for outdoor exercise. Play games with your cat or dog that are both mentally and physically stimulating.

GRANT MORE FREEDOM

If you have any questions, comments, or ideas for future editorials please email me at barklifecares@gmail.com.

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If you’re like many pet owners, your schedule means leaving your dog or cat alone for long stretches of time. Granting safe access to your yard while you’re busy can alleviate this burden. Consider installing a pet door combined with a pet containment system.

trances and exits. The act of leaving and returning home should be as much of a non-event as possible.

“With proper training, dogs and cats can safely learn to understand and respect the boundaries of the yard,” says Atkinson.

Highly recommended by veterinarians, professional dog trainers, behaviorists and other pet experts, a pet door can reduce accidents inside the home, increase exercise, stimulate a pet’s senses and provide a change of scenery.

Opt for a programmable electronic pet door that’s customizable. For instance, the Invisible Fence Brand Doorman, which is completely secure against unwanted visitors with an automatic locking device, allows you to set different schedules, boundaries and rules for each pet. More information about such devices is available at www.invisiblefence.com.

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MAINTAIN THEIR SPACE

MAKE SEPARATION EASIER

If your pet cries or misbehaves when you leave the house, you may need to take steps to reduce his or her separation anxiety. Desensitize your pet to anxiety-inducing predeparture cues like putting your shoes on or packing your bag, by regularly doing these actions and staying put.

When you do leave, keep the radio on to keep your pet company throughout the day.

Keep your absences short initially, gradually building up the length of time you’re away. And try to avoid making grand en-

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Be sure to regularly clean litter boxes and keep your pet well-hydrated. Automatic litter systems, pet feeders and drinking fountains can help you maintain your pet’s living conditions, even when you aren’t there to do it yourself.

Don’t ignore your pet’s anxiety. A few household changes can take the stress out of being a pet, giving you peace of mind that your furry friend is happy and healthy.

I would love to hear your ideas for future articles or questions. Please email me at barklifecares@gmail.com

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November 2018 • 33

with Jim Daly Q: I enjoy the holidays, but I want our kids to learn that it’s more than just food, football, shopping, presents and days off from school. Do you have any suggestions?

Jim: One of the secrets to a happy life is gratitude—not just brief moments here and there where we acknowledge the good things in life. I’m talking about living a life of gratitude.

Gratefulness isn’t just an emotion we feel; it’s a choice we make. This is especially important considering the problems we all face in life. We may have to search for reasons to be grateful. Perhaps we’re having trouble at work. We can still be thankful we have a job. Or maybe our child is making poor decisions. Although we’re disappointed, we can be grateful they’re healthy and safe at that moment.

Gratitude is not merely thankfulness when everything is going right. After all, life is rarely like that. Instead, gratitude is understanding we live in a broken world, yet choosing to be thankful anyway.

TEACH KIDS TO BE GRATEFUL ALL THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

To do that, we have to intentionally see the goodness in our lives. That can be tough, because the smallest blessings can be the hardest to notice. But they’re also what help give our life its richness and meaning.

The Thanksgiving holiday is a great occasion to begin that practice. In our household, we go around the table and share what we’re grateful for. But once the holidays end, we carry that tradition on throughout the rest of the year because we believe it’s important to do.

Life will always confront us with challenges, and those hardships can sap us of our gratitude. But making it a daily habit to pause and reflect will help us remember just how much we have to be thankful for. For more encouragement to make every day count, visit FocusOnTheFamily.com.

DURING STRESSFUL HOLIDAY TIME, OFFER KINDNESS TO RELATIVES Q: Do you have any advice for dealing with extended family members who don’t get along? My in-laws like to host big get-togethers with all the relatives, but they’re always marked by tension and dissension. I don’t want to offend my spouse or his parents, but I’m tired of all the conflict. Can you suggest a solution?

Jim: This a common situation—in home after home, family gatherings that are supposed to be filled with love and warmth end up turning into tense, uncomfortable confrontations. But “common” isn’t the same thing as “unavoidable.”

One option is to be honest. When you get an invitation, tell your in-laws that you appreciate their thoughtfulness, but aren’t going to be able to join the party. You don’t need to defend yourself or offer a long explanation. Just state your position and leave it at that. Naturally, you and your spouse will have to be in agreement on this.

A second choice would be to attend the gathering, but minimize your contact (if travel is involved, make plans to stay at a hotel rather than in your in-laws’ home). Tell them that you’re looking forward to spending time with them, but don’t want to get involved in a feud with other members of the family. If the party disintegrates into a shouting match, politely excuse yourselves and head for home.

There’s also a third option. You could approach the next family gathering with an entirely different attitude. Try to see it as a time for reaching out in kindness and grace, even when it’s hard. Look for opportunities to extend love to some unlovely people. In the process, you may end up having a bigger impact in all their lives than you might suspect.

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FATHER-DAUGHTER “DATES” CAN HELP TEEN SEE SHE IS VALUED

have a positive influence on her perception of herself.

Q: I’m the father of a slightly “boy crazy” 14-year-old daughter. I’m really dreading the whole dating thing as she gets a little older. What can I do to prepare both of us?

Jim: Most fathers with daughters go through the same struggle watching their little girls grow up. I’d suggest you teach your daughter the proper role of dating by taking her out yourself, frequently.

Going on a “date” with Dad has many benefits for a daughter, regardless of her age. For example, as girls develop their identity, they measure themselves against the impossible standard of beauty portrayed

by Hollywood. This is where fathers become very important. By spending time with your daughter, you can

Also, taking your daughter out on a “date” allows you to model how a man should treat her. By making one-on-one time a priority, you’re showing your daughter she is valuable. And your acceptance for who she is will build her self-esteem. You can also help her develop a sense of individuality by listening to her and respecting the opinions she shares. Most importantly, spending time with your daughter regularly keeps her heart open to you.

So get out your calendar and schedule a “date” with your daughter. Let her suggest some activities she would like to do. It doesn’t have to take all day, but make sure the time is special by limiting interruptions. The best way to ensure success in your daughter’s future dating experiences is to make sure it starts with Dad.

dependability; 2) ability to maintain close family ties; and 3) self-sufficiency. Aging folks often don’t want to reach out for help, rely on government assistance or have hired help in their homes. They want to do things independently, proving themselves dependable and responsible.

The key to honoring aging loved ones is to understand how to encourage them in these areas. Here are some suggestions: • Recognize skills and successes. Honoring your father entails recognizing him not only for who he is, but also for past achievements, abilities and talents.

AGING PARENTS CAN BE RELUCTANT TO ASK FOR HELP AROUND HOME Q: My wife and I are more than willing to take care of my aging father, but he’s always been a proud man, and we don’t want to crush his spirit. How do we protect him against the feeling that he’s becoming useless?

Jim: According to researchers, most older people measure their personal worth by how well they meet three goals: 1)

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November 2018 • 35

with Jim Daly • Reminisce. It’s important to help an aging loved one capture his personal history and pass it along to children and grandchildren. Preserve his memories and current interactions with kids and grandkids on digital media, in still photos or in memory gift books.

SOUL MATES AREN’T FOUND — THEY’RE FORMED OVER TIME

• Reinvent memories. Celebrate everything! Affirma- Q: I’ve been dating a great guy for a while. I think he tions of life and love remind elderly people that they would be a good husband, but I’m not sure if he’s my are appreciated. “soul mate.” Should I move on and keep looking?

• Remember old friends—and make new ones. Friendships help people stay engaged, and are also beneficial in processing loss, depression and feelings of worthlessness. Do everything you can to ensure that your father has access to friends by phone, email, “snail” mail and regular visits.

• Renew energy with regular exercise. Swimming, walking or other light exercise improves circulation and keeps the endorphins—those “feel-good hormones”—flowing through the blood system.

Greg Smalley, Vice President, Family Ministries: Before you decide one way or another, I’d encourage you to consider this: soul mates aren’t found, they’re formed over time.

Doug Block, a wedding videographer, produced a documentary about couples whose nuptials he’d filmed. He wanted to see how their marriages had fared after a few years. His conclusion was that the Hollywood-fueled notion of the “soul mate”—the idea that there’s one person out there just for you—is a myth. As he told Time magazine, “A lot of marriage is coming to terms with who is this imperfect person you’re living with, and acknowledging that you’re not exactly a perfect person either.”

• Seek opportunities for senior volunteers. Many nonprofit organizations not only provide a place for seniors to volunteer, they also need this assistance to No one “clicks” with another effortlessly. We’re all flawed carry out their mission. people prone to selfish impulses. That’s why relation• Encourage latent talents. If appropriate, nudge your ships—and especially marriage—can be so challenging at dad in the direction of developing a hobby such as times. It takes hard work to love our spouses through the painting, drawing, writing, woodworking or learning good and the ugly. So when you encounter differences in how to use different computer programs. Probe his in- your relationship, don’t assume your significant other isn’t terests until you see his eyes light up, then find a way your soul mate. Disagreements should be addressed, but understand we’re all prone to selfishness. to get him involved.

It’s only by going through that tough process that a couple can create the true intimacy of marriage. So, remember: Soul mates aren’t found; they’re formed over time through sacrifice and enduring love. When you identify someone with whom you can mutually commit to that dynamic, it just might be “the match.”

Jim Daly is president of Focus on the Family, host of the Focus on the Family radio program, and a husband and father of two.

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Improve Your Marriage Through Thankfulness

by Janine Petry

My husband and I recently moved. While the house the more I’m able to be truly gratewas new to us, the task of blending our separate tastes ful for the gift of my spouse. and treasures was a familiar practice. As we’ve done before, we carefully added each item, transforming the Responding with thankfulness emptiness into the fullness we know to be home.

After learning to fully recognize But the secret to keeping two lives beautifully blend- the gift of my spouse, I can start ed doesn’t rest on our ability to merge personal items responding to it. This heartfelt reor personalities. Rather, it comes from a heart of sponse strengthens our connection. thankfulness—even for our differences.

I do this by verbalizing my obserTrue thankfulness is more than polite words and good vations to my husband: I mention manners. And it’s more than an attempt to muster posi- the gifts I’ve been given that day tive feelings. A genuine spirit of thankfulness flows and what they mean to me. I dwell deep from the heart and provides a steady stream with on the joy he has given me through his actions, words which I can continuously refresh my marriage. and personality. I make this intentional response a daily practice because I want no gift to go unmentioned. It Recognizing gifts might be a casual reference to how a late-night errand In order to grow in thankfulness, I need to first see it he ran on my behalf helped me feel secure and comas a response to receiving a gift. Thankfulness doesn’t fortable. Or it might be telling him that I love how he precede; it follows. Every day that I spend with my cares about me. husband is an opportunity to be thankful and to recognize the ways he blesses me. I make it a point to be When I respond with thankfulness, I get to pour out the specific in naming these gifts: One day, I appreciate his gratitude that’s shaping my heart, and I’m able to see love for God’s creation and his love for people. Anoth- the bonds between us grow stronger. er, I admire his strength, honesty and level-headedness.

After a dinner, I’m thankful for his grocery store savvy Acknowledging the Giver and his aptitude for cooking. And sometimes, I’m even The goal of thankfulness is to connect with a giver. It is grateful for our struggles and for the way he’s chal- not enough to receive gifts and express my gratitude; I lenged me to grow. The more specifics that I recognize, must seek the source.

When it comes to my marriage, my gratitude is ultimately directed to God. Marriage is His gift, His reminder of how He is drawing my husband and me into a relationship with himself. He created marriage, and He is the source of its goodness.

Choosing to grow in a spirit of thankfulness leads to the most beautiful part of all: As my life and heart are transformed, my marriage glorifies God. And the joy of seeing God shine through my marriage is worth the effort of it all.

This article first appeared on Focus on the Family’s Thriving Family website. Used by permission.

TO KNOW HIM AND LIVE THAT OTHERS MAY KNOW HIM You will be encouraged, challenged and have opportunity to grow in your personal relationship with Jesus Christ!

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Social media might be great for keeping up with family and friends, but maybe not so great for your self-image.

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“The attention to physical attributes may be even more dangerous on social media than on traditional media because participants in social media are people we know,” said British researcher Petya Eckler. “These comparisons are much more relevant and hit closer to home.”

Is social media doing more good or bad for our culture?

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1. The Macy’s Thanksgiving Day Parade 2. The Price is Right 3. President John F. Kennedy, Texas Governor John Connally and spectator James Tague.

4. The X-Ray 5. James Naismith 6. After Thomas Jefferson. Ben Franklin mockingly called the turkey “Tom Turkey” after Jefferson.

7. Sadie Hawkins Day 8. Thomas Alva Edison 9. 272 Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

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November Quiz

1

2

A Peanuts character balloon has been featured in this annual Thanksgiving event every year since the debut of the Aviator Snoopy balloon in 1968.

4 7

On November 8, 1895, Wilhelm Röntgen made a scientific breakthrough that would forever change the course of history. What did he discover?

Celebrated on the 2nd Saturday in November this day is recognized as an American folk event in which girls take the initiative to ask a boy out for a date.

Check your answers on the bottom of the previous page.

This popular daytime game show first aired on November 26, 1956 and is the longest running game show in television history.

3

On Friday, Nov. 22, 1963 shots were fired at President John F. Kennedy’s motorcade in Dallas Texas. Who were the three individuals wounded in this shooting?

5

Born November 6, 1861 this individual is credited with inventing the great sport of basketball in 1891. Note: He also tossed up the ball for the opening tip-off at the very first Olympic basketball competition at the 1936 Olympic Games.

6

Why is the male turkey is often referred to as “Tom Turkey”?

8

9

On November 4 1879, this famous American inventor filed for a US patent for an electric lamp using “a carbon filament.”

This November marks the 151st anniversary of the Gettysburg Address, the most quoted speech in American history. How many words are in the speech?

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November 2018 • 39

N ove m b e r FU N FACTS

272 Words

Nov. 6 - TIME to VOTE In 1845 the United States Congress chose a single date for all national elections in all states. The first Tuesday after the first Monday in November was chosen so that voters would not have to vote or travel on Sunday and so that there would never be more than 34 days between Election Day and the first Wednesday in December.

“Four score and seven years ago…” So begins the Gettysburg Address. With a few appropriate remarks, President Lincoln was able to summarize the Civil War in just ten sentences. Only two minutes long, the speech captures the essence of America and its principles as put forth in the Declaration of Independence and in our Constitution. Delivered on November 19, 1863, as a part of a dedication ceremony, the speech transformed the U.S. Civil War from a conflict about slavery to a conflict about being true to the principles upon which the United States was founded.

Lincoln’s Gettysburg Address is the most quoted speech in American history.

11/11

Here in Florida there are currently 13,013,657 eligible voters. This November, make your freedom count and VOTE!

November 22, 2018

The American Thanksgiving holiday began as a feast of thanksgiving in the early days of the American colonies. In autumn of 1621 over ninety Wampanoag Indians joined the Plymouth Pilgrims in celebrating the year’s bountiful harvest with three days of feasting, games, and prayers of thanksgiving for all the blessings they had received. This November 22nd, even though things have been difficult for many this past year, don’t forget to set aside time to give thanks.

Thirty Million children and adults in the U.S. currently live with diabetes according to the American Diabetes Association.

November is American Diabetes Month, a time to shine a spotlight on a serious disease that leads to potentially life-threatening complications. To find out how you can help stop diabetes, visit www.diabetes.org.

Veterans Day is always observed officially on November 11. Veterans Day is the day set aside to thank and honor all those who have served honorably in the United States military.

This November we join the rest of the nation in remembering the sacrifices of America’s over 20 million veterans and expressing our appreciation for their great service.

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40 • November 2018

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Remembering the Night of Broken Glass Through Music

By Elizabeth Gelman, Executive Director of The Florida Holocaust Museum

Note: The Florida Orchestra is presenting Michael Tippett’s moving oratorio A Child of Our Time for the first time Nov. 9–11 in Tampa, St. Petersburg and Clearwater, conducted by Michael Francis and featuring the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay. The special concert, with themes of unity and peace, commemorates the 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht, or Night of Broken Glass, in partnership with The Florida Holocaust Museum. We asked the museum’s director, Elizabeth Gelman, about the anniversary and the importance of this concert as a way to learn and reflect.

On Nov. 9, 1938, the Nazis unleashed a wave of pogroms, state-sponsored terrorism, against the Jews in Germany and Austria. Within a few short hours, thousands of synagogues, Jewish businesses and homes were damaged or destroyed. This event has become known as Kristallnacht, or Night of Broken Glass, and refers to the broken shop windows of Jewish-owned stores that carpeted the streets.

The pretext for this violence was the Nov. 7 assassination in Paris of German diplomat Ernst Vom Rath by Herschel Grynszpan, a Jewish teenager whose parents, along with 17,000 other Polish Jews, had been expelled from the Reich.

The next day, an inflammatory editorial appeared in the official Nazi press and sporadic anti-Jewish rioting began.

Though portrayed as spontaneous outbursts of popular outrage, these pogroms were calculated acts of retaliation carried out by the SA, the SS and local Nazi party organizations.

That night, instructions were conveyed to all parts of the country to encourage participation in the atmosphere of outrage. A mass frenzy broke out: synagogues were destroyed and burned, shop windows of Jewish-owned stores were shattered, and the demolished stores were looted. Jewish homes were assaulted, and in many places, Jews were physically attacked. Some 267 synagogues were destroyed, more than 7,000 shops were destroyed, and 30,000 Jews were arrested, often with the help of previously prepared lists. This was the first time that riots against the Jews of Germany had been organized on such an extensive scale accompanied by mass detention.

A powerful partnership The Florida Holocaust Museum has more than 17,000 objects and artifacts, as well as hundreds of recorded testimonies from survivors of the Holocaust. In our museum and throughout our educational outreach, we discuss the origins of antisemitism and the rise of Adolph Hitler, the systematic state-sponsored persecution of Jews and others deemed “sub-human,” and the resulting torture and murder of between 11 million and 12 million people, 6 million of them Jews.

In the end, the Holocaust is still an incomprehensible event, and no amount of data can convey its overarching emotional impact. We are indebted to partners like The Florida Orchestra, who open artistic portals for audiences to learn and reflect in new ways.

Throughout the last centuries, music has stirred hope and change and provided a vehicle for expressions of protest against injustice.

Michael Tippett’s powerful musical response to the terrible acts of Kristallnacht provides both. Many people of the time, while personally troubled by the actions of the Nazis, chose to be bystanders, saying and doing nothing. One of the core lessons of the Holocaust is that if we do not respond when we see acts of injustice and hatred, we are empowering the perpetrator and are complicit ourselves in the act. Tippett chose to be an “upstander,” providing an example of how great artists respond to societal and moral issues of their time.

Many thanks to The Florida Orchestra, true “upstanders” in our community, for giving us a new opportunity to remember and reflect during this 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht.

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Nov. 16 8:00pm

MAHAFFEY THEATER

Nov. 17 8:00pm

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VAUGHAN WILLIAMS’ A LONDON SYMPHONY NOV. 16 – 18

Nov. 18 2:00pm www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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November 2018 • 41

November 2018

Events

November 1 – 4 5TH ANNUAL GREATER PINELLAS COUNTRY FAIR We are the best of Pinellas County; an all-Pinellas County fair organized solely by volunteers to benefit and promote our county’s youth, agriculture, horticulture and community resources in one amazing annual event! We are governed by a Board of Directors who live and/or work in Pinellas County. The Annual Greater Pinellas Country Fair is all about good, wholesome family fun, great entertainment, friendly competitions, community pride, and educational experiences for the whole family! www.pinellasfair.org November 1–12 2018 EPCOT FOOD AND WINE FESTIVAL There’s not much time left to figure out your Must-Eats for the 2018 EPCOT Food and Wine Festival, which will run through November 12, 2018! Your EPCOT admission is all that’s needed to participate in this popular event! The Festival will play host to seminars, tasting events, and sumptuous meals overseen by top Disney Chefs as well as renowned guest Chefs. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com November 1–January 6 WINTER’S WONDERLAND

Join us for a splashingly great holiday celebration at the Clearwater Marine Aquarium! Experience Winter’s Wonderland with lights and decorations all around the aquarium. See the holidaythemed habitats and wish happy holidays to our resident animals. Enjoy the Kids’ Fun Zone in our 3rd-floor classrooms and learn about penguins and polar bears. Watch and interact with Santa and his elves as they dive in Mavis’s Rescue Hideaway. And then see the lights around Clearwater Bay on the Sea of Lights boat cruise. www.seewinter.com 42 • November 2018

of each class we’ll join in sing-a-longs that encourage movement and parent involvement. www.greatex.org November 8 – December 21 MICKEY’S VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS PARTY When Mickey celebrates the season, Magic Kingdom lights up with excitement for guests of all ages. Cinderella Castle shimmers. Joyful music fills the air. Disney characters don their most festive attire.

Favorite attractions take on a holiday theme. And enchanting surprises lie around almost every turn! www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

November 2–4 RAYMOND JAMES POPS: DISNEY IN CONCERT—TALE AS OLD AS TIME Be our guest for a magical journey into storytelling and music with the timeless tales of Disney. Brought to life by four Broadway-caliber singers and enhanced with high-resolution film sequences, Disney in Concert — Tale as Old as Time explores iconic moments, plot twists and heroics from Frozen, Beauty and the Beast, Cinderella, The Little Mermaid, Tangled, The Lion King and many more. www.floridaorchestra.org

November 7, 14, 21 & 28 TERRIFIC TOTS AT GREAT EX Join the Great Ex S.T.E.A.M. Team at 9:30am to participate in this iconic Great Ex program. Terrific Tots is a FREE members-only program that offers a unique bonding experience for children aged 1-3 and their caregivers! Explore art, music and language with your little one in this fun and safe environment. In the beginning

November 8–11 THE JUNIOR LEAGUE OF TAMPA’S 15TH HOLIDAY GIFT MARKET This shopping event held at the Florida State Fairgrounds features more than 150 specialty merchants from across the country offering unique gift items. The League commits 100 percent of the net proceeds to fund its mission. www.jltampa.org November 8 6TH ANNUAL WINE WOMEN & SHOES Created for women who enjoy fine wine, great style, and supporting a noble cause, Wine Women & Shoes is one of the fastest-growing charity events in the country. The Children’s Cancer Center is once again thrilled to bring this exclusive event to the Tampa Bay area and to be working alongside Wine Women & Shoes’ expert team. Join us on this exciting journey as an active supporter and be part of helping to make this another successful event for Children’s Cancer Center. www.childrenscancercenter.org

November 6 CHARLOTTE’S WEB AT THE STRAZ Based on E.B. White’s bestselling children’s book of all time, Charlotte’s Web tells the story of a pig named Wilbur and his friendship with an extraordinary barn spider named Charlotte. This beautiful, knowing play about friendship, sacrifice, compassion and bravery will weave its way into your heart and leave your audiences totally enchanted. www.strazcenter.org November 6 TODDLER TUESDAYS AT ZOOTAMPA Did you know that November is Manatee Awareness Month! ZooTampa works to rescue, rehabilitate and release the Florida manatee year around. Celebrate sea cows with us with a special manatee-themed storytime and then, enjoy an exclusive animal mingle! www.zootampa.org

November 8–10 OLD SALT 25TH ANNUAL KING OF THE BEACH KINGFISH TOURNAMENT AND FESTIVAL The King of the Beach Tournament has offered a competitive angling experience and helped raise hundreds of thousands of dollars for charity and programs the past 25 years. The increased prize packages will draw even more competitive anglers from across the southeast U.S. More anglers means more money for our charities and programs. It’s a win all the way around. www.oldsaltfishing.org

Starkey Road Baptist Church

November 10 2 pm–5 pm 8800 Starkey Road Seminole, Florida 727-397-1654

A Free event for the whole family Games, Bounce Houses, Fun, Food Especially for children 10 and under and their families Free Community Shop

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

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November 9–11 THE FLORIDA ORCHESTRA PRESENTS A CHILD OF OUR TIME Written decades ago in the era of Nazi Germany, Michael Tippett’s oratorio is a powerful call for unity in a divided world.

TFO’s debut features the Master Chorale of Tampa Bay and commemorates the 80th anniversary of Kristallnacht (Night of Shattered Glass) in partnership with The Florida Holocaust Museum. www.floridaorchestra.org November 10 YOGA IN THE WILD Strengthen & rejuvenate at Yoga in the Wild. Join us for a fun and refreshing flow connecting you to wildlife and nature! This month, begin with a special enrichment & exclusive animal mingle, then practice by the rare Florida red wolves! Yoga & pups— what more could you ask for? Ommm in the morning and then namast’ay at the Zoo after your practice! www.zootampa.org

November 10–December 15 OUTSIDE IN AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM Grab your canteen and meet us under the stars at GCM’s pop-up exhibit saluting camping and so much s’more! www.glazermuseum.org November 10, 17 & 24 DILLYDALLY WITH DALI Children can discover the creative world of Dali through games, puzzles and arts + crafts activities which educate and encourage family interaction. Dillydally with Dali takes place under the direction of the museum’s Family Programs Coordinator in the 1st floor Education Classroom. www.thedali.org November 11 & 25 BUCCANEERS HOME GAMES Cheer on your home town Bucs and support your community as the Tampa Bay Buccaneers take on the Washington Redskins and the San Francisco 49ers at Raymond James Stadium. www.buccaneers.com

November 14 HOMESCHOOL SCIENCE EXPERIENCE ENRICHMENT DAYS AT MOSI Creativity and innovation is at the heart of engineering. Learn how to use these assets while working with others to construct great projects. Create a dam that can withstand an onslaught of water from torrential flooding. Create a house from simple materials that can withstand 100mph winds. Manipulate simple polymers that your group can use to hang and hold one gallon of water. This class is full of engineering challenges. www.mosi.org November 14 FLORIDA CONVERSATIONS: FLORIDA WILD—HIDDEN IN PLAIN SIGHT Following in the footsteps of bears and panthers, author, photographer, conservationist, and National Geographic explorer Carlton Ward Jr. uses his photography to inspire conservation of Florida’s nature and culture. Now embarking on his most important journey, Carlton aims to accelerate the rate of conservation in Florida. www.tampabayhistorycenter.org November 17 MFA MAKE & TAKE SATURDAYS Create your own masterpiece inspired by works in the collection and special exhibitions.

Supplies are included. FREE with Museum admission. No registration necessary.

Recommended for ages five and older, but entire families are encouraged to participate. www.mfastpete.org

November 17 THE 18TH ANNUAL BOLT RUN The Bolt Run is back! Bolt to the blue line at the 18th annual Florida Hospital Bolt Run, presented by Dasani, on Saturday, November 17, 2018! The Bolt Run will feature a 5-Mile, 5K and 1-Mile Family Fun Run, with this year’s finish line taking place just steps from the AMALIE Arena ice surface. Register now to run, walk or cheer!” www.nhl.com/lightning

November 17–December 31 CHRISTMAS TOWN AT BUSCH GARDENS Busch Gardens beams with twinkling lights, Yuletide shows, holiday shopping and even a visit to Santa’s House during Christmas Town™. The park transforms into a holiday wonderland of entertainment and attractions where a beautiful family

A safe and loving place where children have fun learning

REGISTER NOW FOR 2019 Ages 2 through *VPK (*9 – 12) Full Time / Part Time Hours 7:30 – 5:30 Phone: 727.573.1012 Email: preschool@feathersoundchurch.com www.gulfcoastfamily.org

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13880 Feather Sound Drive Clearwater, Florida 33762 November 2018 • 43

tradition awaits. Guests will also have the opportunity to ride some of Busch Gardens’ most popular thrill rides, including family spin coaster, Cobra’s Curse®. Christmas Town is included with daily admission. www.buschgardens.com November 17–18 FALL FEST: FOOD FOR ALL, ALL FOR FOOD – AT THE GLAZER CHILDREN’S MUSEUM GCM hopes to see you at their big fall weekend event! Join the museum as we cook and gobble up thanksgiving recipes with a twist! Make sure to bring your appetite as classes include cooking apples and ice cream, mashed potatoes, cranberry sauce, and so much more. We will also be creating Thanksgiving placemats and play tons of turkey games! www.glazermuseum.org November 22 TAMPA BAY TIMES TURKEY TROT The Tampa Bay Times Turkey Trot is a family-friendly race event that takes place in Clearwater annually on Thanksgiving morning. It began in 1979 as a 10K and has grown into one of the most popular holiday events in the county. All races begin at Keene Road just south of Gulf to Bay Blvd. (except the 5k Fun Run) and end in Jack White Stadium at Clearwater High School. www.tampabay.com November 22–December 30 2018 EPCOT CANDLELIGHT PROCESSIONAL

November 23–December 30 CHRISTMAS IN THE WILD AT TAMPA’S LOWRY PARK ZOO The Zoo is brimming with holiday cheer as Christmas in the Wild returns with even more twinkling lights and jolly surprises!

Experience 18 wild and wonderful nights. Enjoy seasonal treats, enchanting entertainment and a 50-foot animated Christmas tree! Best of all, visit Santa in his Tree Top Lodge and marvel at the magic of wildlife at night. www.lowryparkzoo.org November 24 DAVE KOZ AND FRIENDS: CHRISTMAS TOUR 2018 Dave Koz celebrates his 21st year of holiday spirit at Ruth Eckerd Hall! The holidays have always been about bringing close friends together and celebrating the season with good times and great music.

Saxophonist and nine-time GRAMMY® nominee Dave Koz has been doing it for two decades with talented friends and collaborators on a tour that brings the yuletide spirit to devoted audiences from one coast to the other. Koz brings with him jazz superstars Mindi Abair, Jonathan Butler, & Japanese keyboardist Keiko Matsui! www.rutheckerdhall.com

November 29 A VERY MERRY MARKET AT GREAT EX Shop LOCAL this holiday season! Great Explorations Children’s Museum and Sunken Gardens bring you the 5th annual A Very Merry Market, a free shopping event showcasing the talented makers and businesses that make our area a unique and eclectic place to shop!

From dad, to mom, to your significant other….to the kids and even your pets…A Very Merry Market is an indoor, airconditioned event that is guaranteed to have something for everyone on your list (or even for yourself!). Come and shop your local favorites while enjoying exclusive discounts and free holiday treats. www.greatex.org

44 • November 2018

Have an Event?

Email submissions to events@gulfcoastfamily.org for consideration or visit our online calendar at gulfcoastfamily.org.

November 29 PATEL CONSERVATORY PRESENTS THE BEST CHRISTMAS PAGEANT EVER Students in grades 2 through 12 take on the roles of the Herdman kids—the worst kids in the history of the world. They lie, steal, smoke cigars, swear and hit little kids. In this stage production of the famous children’s book, follow the Herdmans as they take over the annual Christmas pageant to create a shocking, chaotic evening somewhat similar to the night that inspired it. The result is a heartwarming version of the greatest story ever told. www.strazcenter.org

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park • 600 Ashley Drive

Friday

Hear the stirring story of Christmas— as told by a celebrity narrator, and accompanied by a 50-piece orchestra and massed choir as this dazzling performance returns to EPCOT. Each night, a celebrity narrator tells the biblical tale of a savior born to a virgin in Bethlehem. All the while, gorgeous choral pieces are woven into the production as an orchestra and choir provide an inspirational backdrop with songs of hope and joy. www.disneyworld.disney.go.com

November 29 THE PIANO GUYS: CHRISTMAS TOGETHER The Piano Guys, who created an Internet phenomenon with their original blend of classical music with pop will return to showcase their talents live for a concert at Ruth Eckerd Hall. This is one concert you will not want to miss! www.rutheckerdhall.com

Nov 30

Saturday

6pm - 9:30pm

Dec 1

Holiday entertainment by

Late NightBrass

Free Movie presented by

Tampa Theatre

Parade 11 am Festival Noon-4 pm

Activities for kids include makeand-take crafts, photos with Santa, rock wall, bounce houses, and entertainment stage.

FOR MORE INFO VISIT FRIENDS OF TAMPA RECREATION ON FACEBOOK Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

The Gulf Coast Family Weekender

FRIDAY

2

Greater Pinellas County Fair – Youth Day England Brothers Park www.pinellasfair.org

Urban Agriculture exhibits at the Fair will highlight Pinellas County’s agricultural heritage, and create new cultural traditions.

9

Ribfest 30th Anniversary Vinoy Park, Nov. 9 – 11 www.ribfest.org

SATURDAY

3

SUNDAY

4

Jack Hanna Weekend

Busch Gardens www.buschgardens.com Join “Jungle Jack” for a wild weekend of furry and feathered fun.

Straz Live! in the Park – Hamiltunes Curtis Hixon Park www.operatampa.org

Enjoy a free concert of opera favorites. Blankets and picnic baskets are encouraged. Presented by Opera Tampa and the Straz Center.

10

11

Bucs vs Redskins www.buccaneers.com

Ribfest features the best BBQ ribbers in the world, national touring bands and plenty of fun for the whole family.

16

Tampa Bay New Car + Truck Show Tampa Convention Center www.autoshowtampa.com

New cars, trucks and SUVs will fill the Tampa Convention Center for the 2019-Model Tampa Bay New Car + Truck Show!

23

WAR on I-4 — UCF Knights vs USF Bulls Raymond James Stadium www.gousfbulls.com Cheer on the USF Bulls as they take on the rival UCF Knights in Tampa.

Go Bulls!

17

www.oldsaltfishing.org

18th Annual Bolt Run Amalie Arena lightning.nhl.com

24

18

Winter Village at Curtis Hixon Park Curtis Hixon Park www.wintervillagetampa.com

Curtis Hixon Waterfront Park is transformed with the sights, sounds and activities of the holidays for children and adults of all ages.

Christmas Town Busch Gardens Tampa buschgardens.com Christmas Town transforms Busch Gardens® Tampa into a holiday wonderland of wintery surprises and all things Christmas on select nights.

25

Lightning Hockey Amalie Arena lightning.nhl.com

The Tampa Bay Lightning host the New York Islanders at Amalie Arena.

GO BOLTS!

Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party Walt Disney World Magic Kingdom disneyworld.disney.go.com

30

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

Join Mickey at this festive winter celebration for live entertainment, spectacular fireworks and an oh-so-jolly holiday parade.

Select nights November 8 – December 21. Separate admission is required.

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

November 2018 • 45

Reader

PH TOs {of the month}

Send us Your Best Photos

YOUR KIDS COULD BE IN GULF COAST FAMILY!

Send your funny parenting stories to articles@gulfcoastfamily.org.

Or email photos of your kiddos having fun at home, school, or anywhere in-between to myphotos@gulfcoastfamily.org. * Please send high resolution photos if possible.

Avea and Eliana “When I say I won’t tell anyone – my SISTER doesn’t count!”

Joey Schorling “Grandma says I’m the cutest

Pyper May “Can’t keep calm, because it’s my Birthday!”

46 • November 2018

Koen Wielenga “Kindness is like Sugar… It makes Life taste a little sweeter.”

pumpkin in the Patch!”

Payton “I never met a pumpkin I didn’t like.”

Jasmine

Say you saw it in the Gulf Coast Family Newspaper

make a “One touch is all it takes…to girl fall in Love with a horse.” www.gulfcoastfamily.org

2018 Holiday Gift Guide

Next Issue

in the

December 2018

Cover story ▲

of Gulf Coast Family

Gulf Coast Family is pleased to bring back our annual Holiday Gift Guide. Come with us as we visit many of our sponsors for some creative and unique gifts for your holiday shopping this year! You are sure to find unique, practical, and yet affordable gifts for you and your family! If you have a product that you would like for us to take a look at for the gift guide, simply email us at articles@gulfcoastfamily.org.

◀ Christmas Reflections

Tis the Season ▶

Remember the excitement you felt when you were a child around Christ­mas? How eagerly you waited for the day to come?

Our memories are a precious treasure worth preserving and sharing. In our December issue, we will take a look at some wonderful Florida Christmas traditions.

Where else in the world can you spend Christmas in the gorgeous Florida sun and in the North Pole, all in the same day? The Gaylord Palms in Orlando is a stunning resort in its own right, but at Christmas its amenities are enhanced by twinkling lights and greenery, professional holiday performances and ICE!

• Learn to Ice Skate • Daily Public Skating • Learn to Play Hockey • Birthday Parties • Group Events

Buy 1 Get 1

FR E E Public Session Admission

SKATE TO BE COOL. OLDSMAR 255 Forest Lakes Blvd 813-854-4010 x0

www.gulfcoastfamily.org

SKATE TO BE COOL. CLEARWATER 13940 ICOT Blvd 727-536-5843

COUNTRYSIDE Westfield Countryside Mall 727-723-7785

To advertise, call 727-612-0783

Buy one admission get one admission free with this coupon – Save $11 Expires 12/31/2018. Skate rental not included.

Good at all 3 facilities.

November 2018 • 47

n a i t s i r h C o d y Wh ? k c i w s e K moms Love They love Keswick for its proven record for Christ-centered, high-quality education.

It’s a learning environment where virtue and vision matter. Where the timeless truths of scripture and timely instructional resources combine to help children grow, flourish and prosper.

Kids grow in their love for the Lord and knowledge of the world around them at Keswick. Christian moms love the sound of that.

Partnering with the local church since 1953

Financial Aid Available

Learn more: www.KeswickChristian.org 10101 54th Avenue North | St. Petersburg, Florida 33708 Infants – 12th grade | Call for a personal tour: 727.393.9100

A Home for Christian families