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December 2013/Januar y 2014
the magic of the season
cover search! ready for baby indoor winter fun
for local moms ... by local moms速
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GOODSENSES.COM GOOODSENSES.COM
704.295.3000 704.295.3000 800.654.3368
Accreditation you can trust. Primrose Schools was the first preschool organization to be accredited by AdvancED (SACS CASI), the gold standard in educational accreditation. This is the same body that accredits over 30,000 schools across the U.S. and worldwide, touching more than 15 million students each year.
Primrose School at Eastfield Village . . . 704.947.3266 Primrose School at Afton Village. . . . . . . . 704.788.8860 Primrose School at Park Crossing . . . . . . 704.542.3883 Primrose School at Austin Village . . . . . . 704.821.9300
Music, Spanish, Computer Technology Balanced student assessment Curriculum and programs developed in consultation with experts
Primrose School of Lake Wylie . . . . . . . . . . 704.926.4955 Primrose School of Cornelius . . . . . . . . . . . . 704.895.3300 Primrose School of Lake Norman . . . . . . . 704.658.0460 Each Primrose School is a privately owned and operated franchise. Primrose Schools, The Right Foundation to Build Active Minds, Healthy Bodies, and Happy Hearts, and The Leader in Educational Child Care are trademarks of Primrose School Franchising Company. Š2012 Primrose School Franchising Company. All rights reserved.
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contents departments 14
features
Book Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 Emily Nanney,Charlotte-Mecklenburg Library
Little Ones Loves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 Make Indoor Activities Pop! . . . . . . .10
A peek at must-have fashion and products.
Kids will love these five indoor games designed to promote fun and physical activity.
Ask the Therapist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22
By Sara Kendall
Small Town, Big City . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14 See why Fort Mill has gained national recognition as a great place to raise a family.
By Stacy Cacciatore
Set your intentions now to ensure a fulfilling holiday season with your loved ones. By Leslie Petruk, MA, LPC, NCC
Carolina Cuties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Starring local little ones, as themselves . . .
Moms Making it Happen . . . . . . . . .16 Have a business idea? Find out how these local women turned their dreams into reality.
By Renee Roberson
26 30
A Family New Year’s Eve . . . . . . . . .26 Staying in? Plan a celebration even the littlest ones can enjoy.
By Renee Roberson
Choosing a Pediatrician . . . . . . . . . .30 Don’t forget to add finding a provider to your baby to-do list.
By Renee Roberson
Get Organized Before Your Bundle of Joy Arrives . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 Tips for making space for baby’s nursery.
By Jennifer Burnham
cover:
Success and Support . . . . . . . . . . . .36
Elise is a 5 1/2-year-old little girl with a big heart. She enjoys dancing, gymnastics and is an excellent swimmer. She loves to cook with her mommy as much as she can and is always willing to help someone. She is in the middle of two sisters, Vivian and Julia, whom she adores and loves.
Advice for the first six weeks of breastfeeding a new baby.
By Michelle Lloyd
Sourwood Inn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .40 Decompress with this relaxing mountain getaway.
By Renee Roberson
Photo by Photography by Chanda 4
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renee & kerrie
Volume 9: Issue 40 Publisher
Sharon Simpson
Sales Executive
Beth Packard The most amazing gift I’ve ever received is the gift of my two children. These days our life is so hectic with the projects we have to complete and the places we have to be that I sometimes forget to stop and simply take in the miracles that occur daily in our home. These miracles can include my son telling my daughter how beautiful she is out of the blue to my daughter putting on an impromptu piano concert in the foyer when she sees that stress is taking a toll on me. I’m not always the best person to give advice on “living in the moment.” Because of this, I do have to be extra mindful of these everyday miracles on the days I have to break up an argument about who left a blob of toothpaste on the bathroom counter or remind the kids to put their dirty clothes in the laundry hamper. But I’m working on it, every day, and I encourage others to do the same. My kids are getting older now, but I can remember the foggy haze I lived in right after they both were born. Like any new parent, I scoured all my parenting books and articles on the internet as I worried over scheduling doctor’s appointments, feeding schedules, making sure they were getting enough sleep and that they were hitting all of their expected milestones. We know there are many readers out there who might be experiencing the same worries, so we’ve put together a very special maternity issue that tackles topics such as breastfeeding, organizing before baby, choosing a pediatrician for your child and more. We hope you find the articles useful and helpful as you embark on a remarkable journey with your new baby. The New Year is all about new beginnings. Do you have a special goal you have in mind, like losing that last five pounds, starting a new hobby or starting up a new career? In “Moms Making it Happen,” on page 16, we feature several women in this issue who worked hard to turn their dreams into reality, and we asked them for advice on how the rest of us can do the same! Their stories are inspirational and a good reminder that we all have the potential to make great things happen if we work hard enough. Looking for something to do as the cold weather settles in? Browse through our article on keeping kids active during the winter months on page 10 and plan out your holiday fun “to-do” list (ice skating? A must!) with the numerous activities in our “Out and About” section. ‘Tis the Season, after all!
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Editor
Renee Roberson Creative Director & Co-Founder
Kerrie Boys 6
www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
Sales Executive
Fern Howerin
Sales Executive
April Rozzelle-Woolford
Social Media Director
Michele Chastain mac21268@yahoo.com
Staff Photographer
Photography by Chanda Sales Staff Photos by
Michael C. Hernandez, Capture Happy Contributing Writers Kiran Dodeja Smith Stacy Cacciatore Leslie Petruk, MA, LPC, NCC Jennifer Burnham Sara Kendall Michelle Lloyd Emily Nanney
• • • • • • • • Contact Us:
p: 704.677.9159 | f: 1.888.887.1431 P.O. Box 1676 Cornelius, NC 28031 www.littleonesmagazine.com info@littleonesmagazine.com Copyright 2013 by MediaAdventure, LLC Little Ones Magazine is published six times per year. Little Ones Magazine cannot assume responsibility of statements made by advertisers. In addition, though editorial pieces are heavily researched, Little Ones Magazine cannot guarantee their accuracy. No portion of this publication may be reproduced in whole or part without express written permission from the publisher.
How can you get your Little One to appear on our cover?
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from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 for NOON Years Eve at NorthLake Mall!
Little Ones Magazine, Oc tob
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in partnership with Radio Disney Charlotte, is having a cover contest! Watch our facebook page to get more details on the kids’ New Year’s celebration and open call photoshoot for the February/March 2014 issue!
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book corner
New Programs Focus on Financial Literacy, Encourage Reading By Emily Nanney, Charlotte Mecklenburg Library Children’s Services Coordinator
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id you know that Charlotte Mecklenburg Library offers free, fun, and educational storytimes for babies, toddlers, preschoolers, and families which can be found at www.cmlibrary.org/programs? Storytimes stimulate imagination, build language, and expose children to pre-reading skills, which helps them become successful readers. Below is a list of some exciting new programs and services for children from birth to age 5. Starting this winter, several library locations will offer monthly financial literacy storytimes thanks to the generous support of PNC’s national Grow Up Great initiative. These preschool and family storytimes called For Me, For You, for Later: First Steps to Spending, Sharing, & Saving™ will help children learn about financial literacy skills through making choices and decisions. Many of you may be familiar with the Library’s popular “Wee Read” summer reading program for ages 0-5. Thanks to a grant from the Institute of Museum and Library Services, this program is now being offered during the school year at West Boulevard Library, as part of an initiative to expand the program year-round to those living in the Reid Park Academy attendance zone, and better
prepare young children for early school success. Just like the summer reading program, children keep track of what they read and receive incentives for participating. Interested participants ages 0-5 can sign up for Wee Read West in person at West Boulevard Library. The Autism Spectrum Disorder Reference Collection is available in Spangler Library at ImaginOn and is a great resource for parents and teachers with children that have been recently diagnosed as being on the Autism Spectrum. There are a wide variety of books on this topic to explore. The following are some wonderful new books available in Charlotte Mecklenburg Library for children from birth to age 5. Is It Big or Is It Little? by Claudia Rueda (2013) This is a must read for a young child who has lots of questions. A little mouse and a big cat romp through the pages of this book to share concepts from light and heavy to long and short. The surprise ending will invite the reader back for multiple viewings. Simple colors of orange, black, white, and gray give motion to the chase between the story’s two main characters. Rawr! by Todd H. Doodler (2013) “Being a dinosaur is hard,” declares Todd Doodler. Dinosaurs are big and have trouble fitting on school buses as well as sitting at desks. Dinosaurs have good qualities such as helpfulness, good manners, and charming smiles. Did you know that dinosaurs are excellent athletes? Read the book to learn a little known secret about dinosaurs. Bold colorful illustrations will help the reader fall in love with the main character and a cloth dinosaur on the cover will provide young ones with an enjoyable tactile experience.
Read to my child
Reading to Reading to your your young young child child is one of the most most important things ings you y ou can do to to prepare prepare your your o little one ffor or a lif lifetime etime of learning. ning. Visit cmlibr Visit cmlibrary.org ary.org to to find d children's children's reading reading rrecommendations ecommendations t and gr group oup sstorytimes torytimes a att a library library near you. you.
(704) 416-0101 6-0101 | cmlibrary.org 8
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Backseat A-B-See by Maria van Lieshout (2012) This concept book is a new twist on the alphabet. A small child in the backseat of a car spots colorful signs in his environment. There are fire station signs for the letter F, the letter L is represented by a Library, and a stop sign depicts S. This is a great book for a child and parent to enjoy together before their next “road trip” around the city to spot A for the Airport sign and P in the Playground sign. The black and white roads on each page of the book help draw attention to the 26 letter alphabet signs. On your next outing, make a trip to your closest Charlotte Mecklenburg Library location to enjoy storytimes and check out some new books. The staff is awaiting your visit and looks forward to helping you.
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make indoor activities
pop! These fun games will have them bouncing off the walls (in a good way!)
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By Sara Kendall
reary winter weather can be enough to stop even the most active kids. Stuck at home, apathy can spread quickly among children as they reach for their electronic devices or plop down in front of a television screen. “It’s important to keep the mind and body active,” says Norma Wright, occupational therapist and coowner of KidsAbilities in Charlotte. “Increased body movement activates the mind and whole body while enhancing learning.”
Wright, along with her KidsAbilities co-partner Valerie Goodfriend, have put together five clever activities for indoor play. Some involve inexpensive items you may already have at home, like balloons, bubble wrap, or flashlights. Use these fun activities to get your kids moving and entertained as winter sets in. ••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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Kids of all ages love balloons, so give Air Balloon a try. Blow up a balloon for each kid. Instruct them to bounce it to keep it in the air. Challenge your kids to see who can keep it afloat the longest without it hitting the ground. For more fun, add multiple balloons. Have a Balloon Volleyball game. Set up your court by stretching out a jump rope to make two sides. Have players alternate serves, play until one player reaches the score of 21, the winning score in volleyball. Move onto Balloon Kick by using a blown up balloon with string or yarn tied to the balloon and to a chair leg. Balance on one foot and try to kick the balloon. Play alone or with a partner. Try different length strings. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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Turn a room into an indoor ice skating rink. Each child puts a paper plate on each foot. Skate around a non-carpeted floor to the music. Hold another set of paper plates in hands and clap with them, wave overhead, and get dancing to the music. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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crawling under a blanket, rolling across a room, hopping in a figure 8 shape around chairs, and jumping into a pile of pillows. Add a scavenger hunt twist by hiding puzzle pieces of an age-appropriate puzzle within the obstacle course. Bring the puzzle base to the child along the way or the child can try to carry all pieces and put the puzzle together at the end.
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Since just about every kid loves playing with flashlights, teach them Flashlight Tag. Sitting in a dark room, each player has a flashlight. Take turns being “it” whose task is to shine the flashlight on the wall or ceiling and then move the light quickly to different place, pausing briefly at each new spot. Other players try to catch the light with their lights before “it” moves to a new place. After Flashlight Tag runs out of steam, try Move to the Light Relays. Turn off the lights and shine the flashlight beams on the floor. Players take turns choosing ways to move to the light such as jumping or crawling. Be sure the area is clear of obstacles, so everyone stays safe. Whatever you do, don’t let the winter months discourage you or your kids from staying active. See if you can come up with a few new indoor games of your own to keep you entertained until the outside temperatures begin to rise again. Sara Kendall is a freelance writer and mom of two daughters who lives in Charlotte. She encourages her girls to stay active and has to remind herself to do so on cold winter days. Sara either bundles up to run in the neighborhood or hits the gym when something frozen is falling from the sky.
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Popping bubble wrap delights every child, so show them how to play Follow the Leader, where part of the game is popping bubbles. Place pieces of bubble wrap around a carpeted room by taping bubble side up with masking tape to prevent sliding. The leader moves to each piece in different ways like jumping, crawling, or crab walking. At each piece of bubble wrap, stop and pop some with your fingers. Try with or without shoes or socks for extra sensation. Take turns being the leader. •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••
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With your children, create an obstacle course around the house. Think about incorporating different actions such as www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
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fit fun
get the family moving! WHAT: Uncle Ebb’s Bah Humbug Buster 7K and Scrooge Scramble 1 Miler Ready for a challenge? The Bah Humbug 7K has your name written all over it. How about a fun run? Join in one lap around the lake at Reedy Creek. Try and catch Uncle Ebb on the way to the finish line. The course is mostly smooth and flat with a few small hills. Great for first time trail experience. Check out the website to find out more about “Uncle Ebb”. When: Dec. 7, 9:20 a.m. Location: Reedy Creek Park gorunevents.com/Uncle_Ebb_Charlotte.html
WHAT: Merry Christmas 5k/Fun Run Come enjoy the festive Christmas season with a competitive 5K, kids fun run, family activities, meet and greet with Santa, optional photo shoot with Santa, elf costume contest, hot chocolate, Panera Bread, and other local businesses. It is a holiday party! A portion of the race entry fees will be donated to the Angel Tree Foundation. When: Dec. 14 at 10 a.m. Location: 10320 Rozelles Ferry Road www.charlotte5k.com
WHAT: Frostbite 5K/1 Mile Fun Run Burrrr-it is getting cold outside! Warm up with a family run or walk to work of some of that holiday stress and calories. It’s much better than eating a bunch of sugar cookies! When: Dec. 21 at 9 a.m. Location: Cannon Memorial YMCA www.cannonymca.org 12
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elcome to our new section called Fit Fun! Here you will find family-friendly events that either involve getting families moving, or are supporting children’s charities. Whether it is a Spartan Obstacle Race or a 1-mile walk, you will find an event here to fit your family! WHAT: 1st annual Belk Bowl 5k! Kids are always a good cause. Grab your jogging stroller and show your support. The proceeds for the Inaugural Belk Bowl 5k will benefit Levine Children’s Hospital. When: Dec. 28 at 8:30 a.m. Location: Uptown Charlotte http://belkbowl.com
WHAT: Running of the Lights 5.5k Run/Walk Get a babysitter! For those of you who are not the party types-get out and moving on New Year's Eve! When: Midnight on Jan. 1, 2014 Location: Tanglewood Park – Clemmons, NC www.runningofthelights.com
WHAT: Carolina Spartan Sprint Start training for this race now! Empower the whole family with this tough 3-5 mile obstacle race for the grown ups and kids’ fit race. The Kids Fit Foundation Obstacle Race is for ages 4-13 years and includes a halfmile and mile course. When: March 22 & 23, 2014 Location: TBD spartanrace.com
WHAT: The Biggest Loser RunWalk, North Carolina 5K Off-Road Challenge Jillian may not be there, but check out some of your favorite Biggest Loser contestants. See how a new lifestyle has helped them reach their goals. Location: TBD When: March 22 2014 www.biggestloserrunwalk.com
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small town, big city
Photo courtesy of www.avtmarketing.com
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By Stacy Cacciatore
a charming community continues to grow s a native Charlottean, I’ve always appreciated living in the south. The weather is gorgeous year-round, the people are friendly and there are great museums, restaurants and entertainment. Therefore, moving to Fort Mill, S.C. in 2006 was a natural transition. Fort Mill seamlessly marries small-town charm with big city convenience. I’m not the only one who thinks Fort Mill is a great place to live as, Family Circle magazine named Fort Mill among its “10 Best Town For Families.” According to the magazine, they evaluated factors such as outstanding schools, affordable housing, plenty of greenspace and a giving spirit when selecting the top towns. In speaking with Fort Mill Mayor Danny Funderburk about this accolade, he said he was proud, but not surprised. “Receiving recognition as one of the top ten cities to live by a magazine with 19 million readers is quite an honor,” says Funderburk. “It validates that what we are doing is right on track.” The Fort Mill school district is a major driver for many families moving to the area. All of the district’s elementary schools received the Palmetto Gold award from the South Carolina Department of Education for academic achievement. The South Carolina Association of School Administrators presented the “Palmetto’s Finest Award” to Fort Mill High 14
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School in 2012. The district also received an “excellent” report card. With low student/teacher ratios, national accolades and high student achievement, it’s no wonder why families flock to Fort Mill. The school district is the smallest in the state, but one of the fastest growing. One of the ways that Fort Mill continues to build upon its close-knit community is through local events. Each May, Fort Mill hosts The South Carolina Strawberry Festival, which was recognized as South Carolina's “Event of the Year” for the second straight year during the annual South Carolina Festival and Event Planners Conference and Trade Show. Whether festivalgoers are looking for good music, kid-filled fun, arts
and crafts or delicious food, there is something for everyone. Fort Mill is also home to Anne Springs Close Greenway, which features 40 miles of trails spread out over 2,100 acres of historic land. Visitors can enjoy hiking, biking, horseback riding, fishing, touring the 200year old log cabins, walking over the 125-foot suspension bridge and geocaching, which is an outdoor scavenger hunt using GPS-enabled devices to locate hidden containers at specific coordinates. There is also a rich military history in Fort Mill, which is why city officials felt it was important to create Veteran’s park. This park pays homage to all who have served our country. Speaking of parks, Fort Mill is home to Walter Elisha Park, a 12-acre park with a large children’s playground, walking trails and expansive green space. In April, Millstone Park held its grand opening, offering a playground, gazebos and bench swings to visitors. Doby’s Bridge Field was recently expanded to include two new baseball fields and additional amenities. Between the excellent schools, rolling greenway, clean parks and strong sense of community, Fort Mill is a wonderful city that’s great for growing families. Stacy Cacciatore is the author of several books focused on making eating healthy fun for the entire family, including Lunch, by Me!, a book and complete toolkit for making school lunch easy and fun. She lives in Fort Mill with her two children, ages 11 and 7, and husband.
• local art • handmade gifts • clay classes • adult & child parties plus more...
Gallery, Gifts & Studio 229 Main Street Fort Mill,SC 704.301.2619
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THE CHILDREN’S COTTAGE
Boutique Brands Clothing, toys, and accessories as special and unique as your little one.
304 Springcrest Drive Fort Mill, SC 29715 803.396.7800 childrenscottage@comporium.net
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moms making
it happen
make money doing what you love By Renee Roberson he start of a new year gives us all a clean slate to re-evaluate our lives, set new goals and work on achieving our dreams. For four local moms, ingenuity and persistence have paid off and resulted in fun new business ventures. We talked to the women recently for advice on turning hobbies and pastimes into cold, hard cash.
The Charmed Hummingbird Huntersville mom Dawn Conover has always loved upcycling and painting salvaged pieces of furniture. She first began selling items through an Etsy shop she named The Charmed Hummingbird but found packing and shipping furniture items to be logistically challenging.
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Conover and her business partner Christi Wood have long been fans of The Depot at Gibson Mill in Concord but found a long waiting list when they inquired about renting a booth there. When they heard about The Rumor Mill Market opening in Davidson, they jumped at the chance to bring The Charmed Hummingbird to life in a retail space. The Rumor Mill Market, a multi-vendor marketplace, is housed in a 2,200 square-foot space that used to be a cotton mill and is the brainchild of Scott Slusarick and Janie Blackstock. The market features many different vintage, antique, and repurposed items. Wood and Conover pay a monthly fee for their space and gives 10 percent of their profits to The Rumor Mill Market. They also pay a flat $5 fee for electricity in their space. Conover upcycles most of the furniture pieces they sell (and says chalk paint is her favorite medium) while Wood enjoys creating the smaller pieces, such as decorated picture frames and mason jars. Their items vary in price from as little as $4 to $325 for larger furniture items. Both Wood and Conover say their venture is not only a fun creative outlet, but it helps alleviate stress in their lives. They also love hitting up yard sales for inspiration but admit it can get time consuming and can be “hit or miss” as far as finding items to repurpose. “It’s been fun but it’s definitely been a learning process,” says Wood. “It’s exciting even when we make just a small sale.” (Editor’s Note: Little Ones Co-Publisher and Creative Director also sells fun, repurposed hats at her KerrieCan booth.)
Emily Coo per & Leig h Humph rey To find out more about The Charmed Hummingbird, become a fan on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/TheCharmedHummingbird MomtoMom Consign These days, purchasing and selling items through consignment is all the rage. Charlotte moms Emily Cooper and Leigh Humphrey became acquainted through a playgroup for their children about six years ago, and decided to create a national website, www.mymomgroup.com, to help connect moms and playgroups and simplify the communication
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Check out these screen shots of the MomToMom app these innovative moms developed.
process that comes with scheduling playdates and other outings. Through working with the website, the two women eventually came to realize that moms wanted an easier way to buy and sell children’s clothing, toys and gear. Cooper and Humphrey used the website Elance.com to help find a local developer, David Gable, for both their website and the MomtoMom app for the iPhone. They worked on planning and development for about six months before rolling out the free lifestyle app. MomToMom has a simple to use keyword search function to make finding what you are looking for quick and easy. Users can also search by category or size or just browse through listings. MomToMom user Robin Fisher says, “I used to spend countless hours tagging
“We eventually came to realize that moms wanted an easier way to buy and sell children’s clothing, toys and gear.”
and preparing clothing and unwanted items for consignments sales only to make 60 percent of the listing price. Now with MomToMom, I can upload items and be done in minutes. I also end up making a lot more money for a lot less effort.” The two women love the ease of being able to participate in the entire consignment process on an iPhone, including uploading item photos, as well as the ability to purchase and print a shipping label from your computer. For more information, visit: https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/mom-tomom-consign/id722630243?mt=8 18
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6250 Blakeney Park Drive Charlotte, NC 28277 704.543.7227 Rea Rd. at Ardrey Kell Rd. www.krkacademy.com
Fort Mill 3009 Highway 160 W Fort Mill, SC 29708 803.802.8977 Off I-77 on Gold Hill Rd. and Hwy 160 near Tega Cay www.fortmillkidsrkids.com
Matthews 5549 Potter Road Matthews, NC 28104 704.821.2005 1.5 miles S.E. of Siskey YMCA at Chestnut & Potter www.kidsrkidsmatthews.com
University Area 2115 Ben Craig Drive Charlotte, NC 28262 704.503.4001 Located off W.T. Harris Blvd and Mallard Creek Rd. www.kidsrkidscharlotte.com
Lake Norman 9620 Northcross Center Ct. Huntersville, NC 28078 704.655.8883 I-77 N at Exit 25 www.kidsrkids4nc.com
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Find this Maternal America dress with a sweater knit top and fun collar perfect for holiday parties at Pickles & Ice Cream
A one-of-a-kind hat for when we moms have a bad hair day at the Rumor Mill Market
Find a holiday ensemble as sweet as Santas cookies at at kerubins.com
Your little girl will be comfy AND holiday ready at The Childrens Cottage
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The coziest winter wear for your little moose at The Childrens Cottage
The perfect diaper bag with all the bells and whistles at Pickles & Ice Cream
hats, decor & more! Located inside the Rumor Mill Market
217 A Depot St, Davidson, NC 28036 kerrieboys@gmail.com www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
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ask the therapist 22
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Let Go of Doing &
Focus on Being By Leslie Petruk, MA, LPC, NCC, BCC
he holidays are a festive time of year full of family, fun, food, peace and joy—right? As much as we all would like to have a Norman Rockwell holiday, the reality is that it can be a busy, stressful and overwhelming time of year. The shopping, kids’ school partying, gift buying, house decorating and cookie exchanging can be enough to put you OUT of the spirit of the season. The excitement of the hustle and bustle can make for challenging behavior from your children as well. Everyone is out of the typical routine and the excitement of celebrating abounds! This presents the gift of unpredictability and anticipation in children, which can translate to stress for all. It’s easy for both you and your children to get into holiday overwhelm! Here are some suggestions to help you make your holidays full of peace and joy rather then stress and dread. First and foremost, decide to be intentional about how you spend your time and energy. Start by considering what is really important. Decide whether it is more important to have your house impeccably decorated or to connect and spend meaningful time with family and friends. Give yourself a break and prioritize. • Set your intention from the start— what are your hopes and desires for the holiday? What will make them meaningful for you and your family? Have a family discussion so that everyone has a voice and you are all in agreement. This is a particularly important conversation to have with your spouse. • Make sure that you and your spouse are on the same page www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
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It’s all about connection— so stay connected to those people and things that are life giving. with your plans, preparation and priorities. This requires communication and will help with setting your intention. • Anxiety and stress is the result of worrying about the future or holding on to feelings from the past. Make a commitment to live in the present and connect fully in whatever it is you are doing at any given moment. • Set aside time each day or each week to make your “to do” list so you don’t have to keep it swimming around in your head. If things come to you at other times, record it in your smart phone or add it to your list. • Don’t sweat the small stuff. If you don’t get all the cookies baked you had hoped, the holidays will still go on and it’s not a catastrophe. • Say “no” if you need to. If you already have a full schedule and are asked to do more, it’s okay to say no. Before agreeing to anything pause and take a moment to check in with yourself—if saying yes creates angst and stress, then don’t! • Focus on connecting with your children, family, and friends—that’s what it’s really all about. Memories are made from the time you spend together not whether you have the perfectly decorated house or home made ornaments. Focus on what’s truly important. • Put your smartphones and computers away. It’s all about connection. Particularly if your children are misbehaving. They are likely tired, overwhelmed, hungry OR needing your attention. Assess which 24
one it is and connect with them if it is attention they need. • Keep your children (younger ones in particular) in as much of their regular routine as you can. It’s not always possible, but a change in routine can cause distress for you and your child. For children 2 and older tell them what you will be doing so they know what to expect. That can help reduce the anxiety and stress of being out of their typical routine. • If your child begins to “melt down” take a break— particularly if you are in a situation that is over-stimulating. Don’t use punitive methods, but let them know that you understand how it can feel like too much to be in a new place. Take them somewhere quiet and sit and talk to them. It’s all about connecting. Younger children may need periodic breaks from over stimulating situations. • Pay attention to how you are feeling. If you are feeling tense, overwhelmed, stressed or anxious stop and figure out what it’s about and what you need to do to reduce the tension. That may mean asking for help—this tends to be a hard one for some parents! Whether it’s from your spouse, friend, neighbor or colleague—it’s okay to delegate and ask for support, even if it’s just emotional support. • When you find yourself frustrated because your child or spouse is not doing what you would want/hope— don’t criticize him, but request what it is that you do want. Criticism will only create defensiveness and add to the stress. A request of what it is that
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you would like is more likely to enlist a spirit of cooperation. • Take some time to give to those who are less fortunate. Finding a cause to support or become active with has shown to boost life satisfaction and fulfillment. There is nothing more rewarding then loving and supporting others. View the holidays through a lens of gratitude, particularly when you are feeling stressed or blue. Having intentions set and communicated will increase the likelihood of a pleasant holiday experience. The holidays can be extra challenging when you have lost a loved one. If that is the case for you, don’t try to pretend it’s not affecting you. Talk to trusted family and friends and ask for the support that you need. Being alone in your grief and overwhelm will only make it worse. It’s all about connection— so stay connected to those people and things that are life giving. Remaining in a purposeful state of choosing to connect with those people and events in your life which give you energy and satisfaction will help you stay in alignment with the reason for the season.
Leslie Petruk, MA, LPC, NCC, BCC is the Director of The Stone Center for Counseling & Leadership which serves children, couples and families. You can get more information on her and her practice at www.thestonecenternc.com.
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704.599.3901 • www.brookdalepediatricdentistry.com 9601 Brookdale Drive, Suite 400 • Charlotte, NC 28215
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happy new year! # "-
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Create a party that’s fun for everyone By Renee Roberson
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vaguely remember getting dressed up and celebrating New Year’s Eve out with friends long ago, but these days I’m more inclined to catch the “Twilight Zone” marathon on the SyFy channel and turn in before the ball even drops. Babysitters are in short commodity during this time of year and it’s sometimes just as difficult to get dinner reservations, so we rarely go out anymore. I find this to be especially true for many families with really small children. This past year though, we decided to do our own family celebration at home and our kids enjoyed it so much they are ready to do it again this year. We broke out the old fondue pot and everyone got involved in cutting up bread, fruit, raw vegetables and marshmallows. We prepared a cheese fondue as our main course and served chocolate for dessert. I believe there might have been some sort of “Just Dance” marathon on the Wii. Then we settled in to watch the “New Year’s Rockin’ Eve” broadcast with champagne for the adults and sparkling grape juice for the kids (my daughter still talks about how much she loved that bubbly juice) today. This year I plan to pick up some party hats, streamers and confetti to make the night even more festive. Read on for some other fun and creative ways you can celebrate a fun New Year’s Eve “in” with even the youngest members of your family:
Check out these local family-friendly NYE events! First Night Kids What: First Night Charlotte is an alcohol-free, innovative and diverse celebration of the New Year that advances the public’s appreciation of visual and performing arts through a shared cultural experience, accessible and affordable to all. When: The celebration kicks off with First Night KIDS at noon, with a kids’ countdown at the main stage from 4 – 5 p.m. Where: Romare Bearden Park www.charlottecentercity.org
New Years Party at George Pappas Victory Lanes What: Bring the family for a kids’ youth party featuring bowling and live entertainment. Reservations required; this event sells out quickly. When: Dec. 31 at 1 p.m. Where: George Pappas Victory Lanes, Mooresville www.visitmooresvillenc.com
Time Zone Travel – They might not be able to stay awake long enough for midnight in the Eastern Standard Time Zone, but it’s always midnight somewhere in the world. Set the clocks in the house to ring in the New Year in other time zones, such as Paris or Spain. Make it educational by researching how the people of that country ring in the New Year and adopt that custom. For example, Parisians actually kiss under a mistletoe on New Year’s Eve and offer their best wishes for the New Year. The benefit is the littlest ones get to go to bed at their normal hour and still feel like they got to celebrate, too! Ring in the Noon Year – Instead of keeping the kids up late to watch the ball drop, move the celebration back to noon so they can be a part of it! Have a countdown to noon on Dec. 31 complete with noisemakers, a sparkling apple cider toast, and a sing-a-long of “Auld Lang Syne.” In fact, you can join Little Ones Magazine and Radio Disney Charlotte for a very special Noon Year’s Eve and Cover Contest (see page 7 for more details). Slumber Party – On New Year’s Eve, the waiting is the hardest part. For the kids who insist on staying up until midnight but might need to doze while they’re waiting, plan a family camp-out in your family room. Pile up pillows, sleeping bags, stuffed animals, get everyone in their pajamas and serve snacks. For a bonus, put together a video slideshow with photos from the past year or watch home video footage from recent family vacations or special occasions. Have a Ball – Head to the craft store and find a large Styrofoam ball you can decorate with sequins and glitter and hang from the ceiling in lieu of spending New Year’s Eve in Times Square. Make cupcakes with special New Year’s Eve ball drop cake toppers. Decorate an empty canister with a lid and label it with the year. Have each child make a time capsule and write down his favorite movies, toys, games, music, etc. from the year. Make it an annual tradition to open the time capsules each year to see how much their tastes have changed. www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
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flavorful finds
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*.. The joy of cooking without the worry. By Kiran Dodeja Smith
llergies often cause angst for parents ... but in the case of Holly Paeper and Monique Prato, it's been a blessing in disguise. Sister-in-laws by marriage, their families had been touched by food allergies and food-related illnesses over the past few years ... and after numerous nuances with failed recipes and other related frustrations, they decided to take matters into their own hands. Eighteen months and an estimated 3,000 hours of baking later, the duo debuted their first products from their business that they named Bumbalooza. The initial goal of the gals was to create opportunities for families to bake, learn and bond, even when food allergies were involved. “We believe that healthy eating habits can begin by cooking/baking with your children,” they say. Instructions on the box include kid-friendly directions and imagery that children are fond of. One of the other goals was to provide only the highest quality ingredients and unique combinations of artisan, natural sugars to create flavor profiles that are friendly to the allergy-sensitive folks as well as others. The busy bees first launched four products, including 28
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Gluten-Free Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix, Gluten-Free Chocolate Pudding Mix, Gluten-Free Oatmeal Bar Mix and Gluten-Free Banana Bread Mix. The official launch was in August 2013 - and led to one of the ladies’ biggest challenges. The overwhelming response was welcomed, no doubt, but not quite expected. Working and managing their families while trying to keep up with demand was no piece of cake - pardon the pun. Next they battled the issue of GMO’s and how to find sources that didn't contain them. “It’s amazing what is hiding in so much of the food out there,” says Paeper. The girls can often be found sampling and selling their yummy products at fairs and shows, but the goodies can always be found at Reid's Fine Foods, The Baby Grocery Store, Healthy Home Market, Organic Marketplace, LB's Produce and More and The Country Gourmet, in addition to their online store. This month they are also introducing new products to the market including Pink Lemonade Mix, Cookies and Cream Cake Mix, Sugar Cookie Mix and Bumba-Bakers Toy Oven Mix (for an Easy Bake Oven); all new products are also gluten-free. Read more about the products and the ladies behind them at www.bumbalooza.com.
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Don’t overlook one of the most important things you’ll need for your baby By Renee Roberson
ou’ve registered for the baby supplies, decorated the nursery, put all your doctor’s visits on your calendar, written your birth plan and made up a list of your favorite baby names. But it still feels like there’s something missing from your expectant parent to-do list . . . Have you decided on a pediatrician for your child yet? Choosing a pediatrician is one of the most important things you can do for your child, and it’s not a decision to be taken lightly. We sat down with Dr. Arnold Snitz, MD, FAAP of Snitz Pediatrics in Charlotte to find out the best way to begin your search for a pediatrician. How Soon Should You Search for a Provider? According to Dr. Snitz, you should actually begin thinking about finding a provider before your last trimester. Are you looking for a family practitioner that treats patients of all ages, or one specifically trained in pediatrics? Your OB/GYN or midwife can give you a list of recommendations, and you’ll need time to visit any potential pediatrician’s office before the birth. Many pediatricians will offer a “prenatal” visit for consultations at no cost, but be sure to check with the office when you schedule. What Happens After Your Baby is Born? One thing you will want to find out is what will happen after your baby is born, says Dr. Snitz. Will the pediatrician or someone from the practice make a hospital visit? How soon after the hospital 30
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Here is a checklist of interview questions that you can take with you as you meet with potential providers for your child:
discharge will you need to take your baby in for his first check-up, and what will the well-visit schedule look like? Does the office provide support for nursing mothers? Another important thing to ask about is how the office handles after-hours calls. Will you be sent to an urgentcare clinic in case of emergency, or will someone from the provider’s office meet patients after hours? For example, Snitz Pediatrics is staffed with nurses that triage calls after hours and has a lactation consultant on staff for mothers.
Is the pediatr ician b oard c How l ertifie ong ha d? s he/s he bee What n in pr actice? affiliat hospitals is ed wit t h e practic h? e Is the p rac insura nce pl tice covered an ? by you r Does t questio he doctor a separa ns via e-ma ccept and a n te cha il rge fo , and is the swer r thos r Does t e q ues e a h tions? your f e doctor’s amily’s office schedu hours le? fit Are th e r e s e sick-v isit wa parate well an iting ro o m s? d How l non-emong does it with t ergency app take to get a o he doc tor? intment How d paymen oes the pra and ins ts, billing, lactice handle urance bo claims ratory char ges, ?
FromBirththroughCollege,yourchild’s healthisourfocus. As an independent solo practitioner, you and your child will come to know and trust Dr Arnold Snitz with your families health and wellness. Even through those pesky teenage years, Snitz Pediatrics will be there to answer questions. You will also find a certified lactation consultant to guide you through a successful feeding experience and even help you choose the proper breastfeeding equipment.
Arnold I. Snitz, MD, FAAP Board Certified Pediatrician Pediatrics & Adolescent Medicine
Does the Doctor Support Your Parenting Philosophy? If you have specific views and concerns on parenting philosophies such as attachment parenting, breastfeeding, immunizations, circumcisions, etc. you’ll need to make sure your future provider is open to discussions with you and supportive of any differing approaches to parenting styles as your child grows.
SNITZ PEDIATRICS, PA
Ginger R. Snitz, RN, IBCLC Certified Lactation Consultant Breastfeeding Equipment & Rentals
Call today to schedule a consultation. New patients are always welcome. Eastover Medical Park, 2620 E. Seventh St. Charlotte, NC 28204-4375
www.snitzpediatrics.com • 704.332.7141 www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
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verything can change rapidly with a bundle of joy on the way. The need to get prepared for new baby is evermore present in your mind. Designing and decorating the nursery can be one of the most exciting changes for you and your family. The difficult task, however, comes in clearing out the room and making space for baby. Here are four simple steps to take you from cluttered and chaos to organized sanity: By Jennifer Burnham
Follow these four simple steps and save yourself some stress
Step 1: Pick a weekend and call in backup. Organizing takes longer than you think, therefore secure a Saturday and Sunday to tackle the nursery-organizing project. All hands on deck will make the process go faster and make it more fun. If your family is more harmful than helpful, consider calling friends or a professional to help. The goal is to get it done, not create drama between husband and wife.
Step 2: Take inventory of what’s currently being stored. In order to organize a space, you need to figure out what is being stored in that space. Take everything out of the closet. Empty all boxes, baskets, and drawers. It might look like a bomb exploded after you do this, but sorting and categorizing are a lot easier when everything is in plain sight. Think of it as a puzzle; all pieces need to be displayed before starting. Sort items into www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
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It is easier to keep up than it is to catch up, so get the space sorted and organized before your beautiful bundle of joy arrives!
Dream Dividers can be purchased at Target, The Container Store, and Bed, Bath, & Beyond. similar categories. Create piles around the room for each category and don’t be surprised if you find mounds of miscellaneous items. A word of caution: be sure to sort items into categories before going on to the next step. Making decisions too early can cause anxiety, stress, and even fights between family members.
Step 3: Donate. Relocate. Trash. It is easier to make decisions on what to keep, what to donate, and what to trash when you see similar items lying together in piles. My motto is “Keep the best, and donate the rest.” Making decisions can be difficult especially with emotions and hormones running high. It is sometimes best to have one spouse pull everything out and sort into categories, then bring in the other spouse to make decisions on what to keep and what to donate. Trash anything that is broken, moldy, and simply ruined. Now is not the time to add more tasks to your overflowing to-do list. Cut yourself some slack and just throw it away. Relocate all items that you want to keep but don’t belong in the new nursery such as old photo albums, keepsakes, and seasonal clothes. Start this space off on the right foot, and clear space and energy to welcome your new baby.
Step 4: Buy furniture and organizing supplies. Getting organized and staying organized can be a simple test of space and systems. Furniture will help you keep the nursery organized for months and even years to come. Start a Pinterest board that reflects your style and then settle on two to three pieces that work within your dimensions. A chest of drawers will give you the most bang for your buck. Most baby and toddler items are folded (not hung) so be sure to invest in several solid pieces. Be sure to keep drawers separated and organized with easy to install (and remove) drawer dividers. Dream Dividers are my go-to and can be purchased at Target, The Container Store, and Bed, Bath, & Beyond. The secret weapon to a well-organized nursery is having a designated place for everything. Not only will it be helpful for moms to put items back where they belong, but it will extend over to husbands, grandparents, and babysitters. 34
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Jennifer Burnham is the owner and organizer behind Pure & Simple Organizing. Pure & Simple is a professional organizing company based in the Charlotte and surrounding areas. Her mission is to inspire others to live a less complicated life through better organization. Mounds of physical clutter can weigh heavy on our minds. She specializes in giving people the opportunity to increase their quality of life by cleaning up and out. Visit her website: pureandsimpleorganizing.com.
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healthful hints 36
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tips for the first six weeks of breastfeeding By Michelle Lloyd
recent study was published by UC Davis Medical Center that surveyed 413 new moms and concluded that only 13 percent continued to breastfeed exclusively for six months. Ninety-two percent of the moms studied had problems breastfeeding the first week. These new moms reported latch problems, nipple pain, some felt they weren’t producing enough milk, and some said they had issues like nipple confusion. The report suggested that new moms need help to succeed at breastfeeding since the ones who had the most problems the first week were the ones to quit breastfeeding sooner. >
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will want to wake a sleeping newborn to make sure they are eating every two hours during the day, every four hours at night until she is gaining weight. Weight gain and wet diapers are the best way to tell if your baby is getting enough milk. Most breastfed babies lose 7 percent of their weight in the first couple of days, 10 percent is the max. This small loss does not mean your baby is hungry and that you need to supplement. A newborn’s stomach is the size of a marble, so he does not need more than 5-7 ml of colostrum to fill him up. It takes an average of three to five days for your milk to come in and by then the baby’s stomach is the size of a ping pong ball—it can hold up to 2 ounces If a nurse or doctor suggests that you supplement, be sure to speak with your own lactation consultant before you accept. Supplementing can potentially cause supply issues, nipple confusion, and it can cause confidence issues, which can lead to failure. Poor latches lead to sore and cracked nipples. If your nipples seem sore, ask for help from your lactation consultant
A newborn’s stomach is the size of a marble, so they do not need more than 5-7 ml of colostrum to fill them up.
Here are some tips to help you through the first six weeks: Find a support network before your baby is born. It is extremely important to find a lactation consultant before you need one. This way if you are having any issues, you are able to phone right away instead of doing research to find one. Some pediatrician offices have an on-site lactation consultant and some will even come to your home. You can also research local La Leche League groups to join their monthly meetings before your baby is born. It is also important to surround yourself with like-minded moms who have successfully breastfed. It’s easy to give up when you aren’t being supported. Once your baby is born, room in at the hospital and try to nurse 10-12 38
times in 24 hours. You can’t nurse too often the first few days, but you can nurse too little. Spend the first week nursing at the first site of hunger (stirring, rooting, hands in mouth) and don’t wait until the baby is crying. You
continued reading www.kellymom.com www.bestforbabes.org www.llli.org www.npr.org/blogs/health/2013/ 09/23/225349120/to-succeed-atbreast-feeding-most-new-momscould-use-help
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so you can fix the latch. If your nipple becomes cracked or broken, there are several ways to heal and still breastfeed. A lanolin-free nipple balm like Earth Mama Angel Baby’s Nipple Butter will help heal and soothe a cracked nipple. Rubbing breastmilk or salt water over the crack can also help. Exposing the nipple to air, changing breast pads often, and cold compresses also help. When breastfeeding, start with the uninjured side since babies tend to be more gentle on the second side offered. If it is too painful, use a nipple shield, but aim for only using it one to three days. Be sure to monitor for redness and infection. Engorgement is very common during the first week, especially when your milk comes in. To minimize engorgement, nurse often or express
milk regularly. Before nursing, gently massage the breast from the chest toward the nipple. You can also use a cool compress for 20 minutes before nursing and a warm compress five minutes before nursing. Plugged ducts and mastitis are two common ailments caused from engorgement, cracked nipples, inadequate milk removal, inflammation, stress, and skipped feedings. It is important that you not decrease nursing. You should rest, get lots of fluids and eat to strengthen your immune system. If you have a plugged duct, make sure you heat, massage, and empty your breast frequently so it does not move to mastitis. If you notice red streaking, contact your doctor immediately. Michelle Lloyd is a freelance writer who is dedicated to living and teaching about healthy lifestyles. A mommy of two, she often leads playgroups at The Baby Grocery Store, acting as a resource for new moms.
I am writing on behalf of Laxer, Long and Savage Specialists in Pediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. We have had the opportunity to be working with Little Ones Magazine for many years now and could not be happier with our experience. The Little Ones staff is extremely knowledgeable and always looking out for our best interest. It is a great publication to be associated with and we value our relationship with Little Ones Magazine. – Kaitlyn Murphy, Laxer Long and Savage
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Also, don’t forget to sign up for our monthly e-newsletter, which provides a listing of up-and-coming events for the month. You’ll never have to worry about what to do! Sign up on our Web site (www.littleonesmagazine.com)
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%*',%% A Mountain Retreat You Won’t Soon Forget
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By Renee Roberson
s much as I love my kids, there are times I need to get away with just my husband. It doesn’t have to be a lengthy or expensive trip—even just a few days to decompress works wonders. After hearing about the Sourwood Inn in Asheville from several people, we decided to research it as a possibility for our fall anniversary trip. What we experienced there far exceeded our expectations . . . and then some! The best part of the Sourwood Inn is the customer service. Within minutes of placing our online reservation, the innkeeper called us to confirm the reservation, give us directions, discuss dining options and answer any questions we had. That level of service continued once we checked in, and the employees made sure we were happy and comfortable throughout our entire stay. Another thing we liked is that the check-out time at the inn is at noon, which gave us the opportunity to take a morning hike on the day we checked out without having to pack up our things first.
basement of the inn with a television, a pool table, board games and ping-pong. They also have a DVD library. For outdoor recreation, there are two different hiking trails located right on the property. One is a short 1/2-mile hike and the other loop takes you on a scenic 1.5-mile hike sprinkled with beautiful wood and metal sculptures. Be sure to take a camera with you around the property—there are many thoughtful and picturesque images you’ll want to capture. You can also choose to hike off the property just up the road off the Blue Ridge Parkway at the Craggy Gardens, Mount Mitchell, Deep Gap Trail or Rattlesnake Lodge. The innkeepers have trail maps and brochures specifically for hiking enthusiasts. You’ll also find plenty of unique shops in the nearby town of Weaverville and in Asheville.
The Food
The Location The Sourwood Inn is a family-owned bed and breakfast located at an elevation of about 3,200 feet on the scenic Elk Mountain Highway in Asheville. The road leading up to the inn is curvy and steep, so it’s best to arrive at the inn before nightfall so you don’t miss the turn off. Inside the inn, there are 12 different rooms to choose from, and each is cheerfully decorated and includes a fireplace, private balcony with a spectacular view of the property, and a private bath. Prices for the rooms range from $155 to $185 per night.
Things to Do One of the best features of the Sourwood Inn is all the little details that make you not want to leave the property once you get there. There are two different fireplaces on the main floor of the inn—one in the lobby and another in the comfortably furnished library, which is filled with floor-toceiling bookcases. There’s a quote on the Sourwood Inn website that we should all consider: “When truly resting, the mind is cleansed and the body recharged.” The owners of the inn try to provide a restful place to unwind, so there are no televisions in the rooms, but there is a game room in the
One of my favorite things about the Sourwood Inn is the food. Guests are treated to a hot, full breakfast in the dining room and afternoon snacks such as lemonade, tea, cookies, brownies and cheese and crackers as part of their stay. My favorite breakfast dish was a cheesy grit casserole, and I was happy to find the recipe on their website after our visit. The inn has its own chef and you can even have dinner at the
“When truly resting, the mind is cleansed and the body recharged.” inn Thursday through Sunday for a flat fee of $30 per person. Reservations are required ahead of time for dinner. Meals feature dishes such as gingered carrot soup, herb and mustard crusted pork tenderloin, polenta, collards, and a pecan sour cream pound cake with Apple Jack spiked whipped cream. Guests can eat in the dining room or on the beautiful stone outdoor patio with its very own fireplace. If you’d like to try other restaurants in the area for lunch or dinner there are plenty to choose from. We love the Early Girl Eatery in Asheville and had dinner another night at the global Italian restaurant The Glass Onion in Weaverville. Also, the long line at The French Broad Chocolate Factory in downtown Asheville is worth the wait. Special note: Children over the age of 12 are welcome and in addition to the inn, there is a small cabin available for rental at $190 per night on the grounds. The Sourwood Inn is closes the week before Christmas and remains closed through January. It opens back up for business in February, and would make the perfect Valentine’s Day retreat! For more information, visit www.sourwoodinn.com. www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms
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out & about “The Nutcracker” Presented by the Matthews Ballet What: Take in this magical and timeless holiday classic with Clara and company as part of the Town of Matthews Hometown Holiday events. When: Dec. 1, 7 & 8. Saturday performances begin at 7 p.m., Sunday performances at 3 p.m. Where: Matthews Community Center www.matthewshometownholiday.com
Menorah Lighting What: Join Lubavitch of North Carolina to celebrate Hanukkah. Refreshments will be served and there will be a craft table set up for children. The lighting ceremony will begin at sundown. When: Dec. 2 from 4:30 – 6:30 p.m. Where: Circle Court at SouthPark Mall. www.simon.com/mall/southpark/ne ws-and-events
Christmas in Davidson What: An annual tradition since 1988, Christmas in Davidson offers three nights of holiday family fun. Bring the kids for ice skating, trolley rides, a visit with Santa and story time with Mrs. Claus, plenty of food and beverages and more. You’ll also have a chance to start your holiday shopping early and take a horse-drawn carriage ride. When: Dec. 5-7 from 6 – 9 p.m. Where: Downtown Davidson www.christmasindavidson.com
Christmas Tea and Craft What: Enjoy an old fashioned Christmas tea for mothers and daughters of all ages. Take tea, enjoy snacks, learn about Christmas tea traditions, and make a craft. Pre-registration is required. When: Dec. 7 from 1 – 3 p.m. Where: Latta Plantation www.lattaplantation.org
Hometown Holiday Festival & Tree Lighting What: Sponsored by Novant Health, this traditional celebration will be filled with carriage rides, holiday crafts, carolers, 42
Embrace the magic of the season with these local events!
and a 5 p.m. tree lighting. The Arts & Science Council is also providing support for this event. When: Dec. 7 from 3 – 6 p.m. Where: Town Hall Village Green at 232 Matthew Station Street www.matthewshometownholiday.com
31st Annual North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade What: The Davidson Fire Department and Cornelius-Lemley Volunteer Fire Department invite you to kick off the season with an array of bands, floats, troops and more. When: Dec. 7 at 1 p.m. Where: North Main at Griffith Street (in Davidson) www.ci.davidson.nc.us
Santa Train What: Children and parents can enjoy a daytime train ride to the Roundhouse with Santa and his elves, who will be handing out oranges and candy canes in honor of a Southern Railroad tradition. Finish off the day with a craft and photo with Santa to take home. When: Dec. 7-8, Dec. 14-15 & Dec. 21-22 Where: North Carolina Transportation Museum www.nctrans.org
Where: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden www.dsbg.org
Mini-Masters Art Workshops: My Treasure Box What: Young artists and their adult companions investigate art in a museum gallery, explore fun new art techniques in the classroom, and take home a unique creation. See sparkling silver and gleaming gold Spanish Colonial artifacts, and use lots of nifty, shiny materials to craft a beautiful mosaic box to take home. Choose between the morning or afternoon program. Juice will be served. Appropriate for ages 3-5 years, accompanied by an adult. When: Dec. 11 from 10:30 – 11:45 a.m. or 1:30 – 2:45 p.m. Where: Mint Museum Randolph www.mintmuseum.org
Candlelight Christmas What: Step into an 1820s Christmas evening as you tour the plantation at night. Meet the animals in the carriage barn, see dancing in the house, share the excitement of children before bedtime, see cooking in the kitchen, a slave Christmas in the cabin, and more. When: Dec. 14 from 6 – 9 p.m. Where: Latta Plantation www.lattaplantation.org
Cookies & Cocoa with Santa What: Ride the rails with Santa’s elves and then let the kids visit with St. Nick in the Roundhouse. Cookies and hot cocoa, storytelling, crafts, and the chance to mail Santa a postcard from the Railway Express train car make this the perfect holiday event. When: Dec. 7, 14, 20, 21 Where: North Carolina Transportation Museum www.nctrans.org
Santa’s Workshop What: Bring your children to visit with Santa before the big day! Participants will get the chance to make a gift for someone special, decorate cookies and join in on a holiday sing-a-long. Space is limited; call for reservations. When: Dec. 7 from 3:30 – 5:30 p.m.
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The 59th Annual Singing Christmas Tree What: Ring in the holiday season with Carolina Voices’ musical program featuring a 32-foot sparkling Christmas Tree, a variety of holiday tunes and a stage full of musical guests. When: Dec. 14 at 7:30 p.m. and Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. Where: Ovens Auditorium www.carolinavoices.org
Singing Christmas Tree for Kids – Starring the Grey Seal Puppets What: In a performance geared for children ages 3-10 years, this family-friendly one-hour show includes rousing sing-a-longs, favorite kids holiday tunes, magical puppets, amazing dancers and, of course, a ho-ho-ho-ing
Santa. Two special events will be offered in conjunction with the performance, a Lunch with Santa and Cookies & Milk with Santa. See website for pricing and times for these separate events. When: Dec. 14 at 11 a.m. and 3:30 p.m. Where: Ovens Auditorium www.carolinavoices.org
be purchased ahead of time online with debit/credit cards. When: Through Jan. 5, 2014 Where: The Corner of MLK Blvd. and Brevard on The NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza. www.wbt.com/holidayonice/ index.aspx
Holidays at the Garden What: This contemporary yet elegant lighting display will brighten your holidays and the fire pit will keep you and your loved ones warm while toasting marshmallows and making s’mores. The traditions continue in the Visitor Pavilion accented with natural displays — where the Orchid Tree stands sentinel over the Great Hall abuzz with Christmas cheer, as children visit with Santa or make a nature-based craft with their family. When: Through Dec. 31 Where: Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden www.dsbg.org
WBT’s Holiday on Ice What: Stop in for ice skating at the coolest place in the city! Skate rental is available. See website for hours. Holiday on Ice only accepts cash, but tickets can
$
Nature Story Corner
What: Let your little ones get settled in and comfortable as they read a variety of nature-based stories. Stories may be accompanied by puppets and audience participation. When: Jan. 6 and 20 from 10 a.m. – 11 a.m. Where: Reedy Creek Nature Center www.parkandrec.com
Sunday Fun Day: Treasure Chest of Art What: Enjoy family-friendly art projects, healthy living activities, artist demonstrations and more. When: Jan. 12 from 1 – 4 p.m. Where: Mint Museum Uptown www.mintmuseum.org
Chicken Day – Calling All Cluckers What: Meet some of Charlotte Nature Museum’s feathered fowl friends and learn about the diversity of this popular pet and food supplier. Programming includes crafts, puppet shows and storytelling. When: Jan. 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Where: Charlotte Nature Museum www.charlottenaturemuseum.org
“Don’t Tell Me I Can’t Fly” What: The whimsical world of a child's imagination comes to life in this play, inspired by the life and work of acclaimed folk artist Della Wells. The story gives a glimpse into the sometimes challenging lives of an African-American family in the 1960s, where Tonia’s parents initially encourage their daughter to blend in with the crowd. With humor and sensitivity, Tonia’s family begins to learn the value of creativity and the need to allow—and encourage—children to reach for their dreams. Appropriate for ages 8 years and older. When: Jan. 24 — Feb. 9 Where: Wells Fargo Playhouse www.ctcharlotte.org
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he Academy of Dance and Fine Arts will hold its annual performances of the “Nutcracker Ballet” on Friday, Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. and Saturday, Dec. 21 at 1 p.m. The Dec. 21 performance will serve as a Holiday Benefit, with all proceeds going to Ace and TJ’s Grin Kids program. Performances will take place at Mooresville High School and tickets are $12 for adults and $10 for children ages 611. Children 5 and under are free. Grin Kids is a nonprofit organization created in 2000 by radio morning show personalities, Ace and TJ. Grin Kids enhances the lives of terminally ill and chronically handicapped children in their listening area, ages 5 to12 years, by taking the children and their entire families to Disney World. A trip to Disney World is something these children would never get the chance to take otherwise, due to their physical needs and costs of such a trip. Grin Kids enables all of their family members, including siblings and caregivers to go on this trip
The ADFA Nutcracker Ballet and Holiday Benefit together. In the past, they have taken 262 families to Disney World, providing airfare, park tickets and all expenses incurred during the stay, including some spending money for souvenirs. Grin Kids is funded entirely by Ace and TJ’s listener donations. Their goal is to create a memorable life experience for these deserving children and give back to the community that supports their show. ADFA’s Nutcracker performances are a delight for the senses where everyone, young and old, can experience the timeless tale of the Nutcracker ballet! Guests will be mesmerized by the classic tale of the Nutcracker brought to life as they discover his transformation to a magical prince! The journey continues through the Land of the Sweets as dancers bring treasures from each country to life. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please visit www.adfastudio.com or call 704.663.3169.
From tiny dancer to the study of dance. Meet Cailyn, who shows starting young can inspire a passion that will become a career.
Cailyn Grace Kennedy, age 17, will dance in the ADFA’s Performance of “The Nutcracker” on Dec. 20 and 21 at Mooresville High School. Born and raised in Mooresville, this senior at
nda hy by Cha photograp
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Lake Norman High School has been dancing since the age of 3 and hopes to study dance performance and exercise science at a four-year university after she graduates.
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