Little Ones Magazine Dec/Jan 2014 by idesign2inc

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Complimentar y

December 2014 â&#x20AC;˘ Januar y 2015

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contents 10

departments features

Book Corner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11 By Theresa “Tree” Martus

Charlotte City Lights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8 By Kiran Dodeja Smith After living in the city for 14 years, one mom shares her family’s annual holiday traditions.

Little Ones Loves . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

A Lasting Legacy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .10

By Renee Roberson Enlist your kids for help in baking the sweet treats of the season—it will be a bonding experience to remember.

By Renee Roberson A Mooresville resident founds an organization that has spent 26 years giving Christmas to children in need.

Jazz Up Your Holiday Party Attire . . . . . .14 By Molly of www.stilettosanddiapers.com Stumped on what to wear as you make the rounds this holiday season? Hint: Accessories can make all the difference!

A peek at must-have fashion and products.

Flavorful Finds . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .26

Ask the Therapist . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32 An in-depth look at “mean girl” behavior. By Leslie Petruk, MA, LPC, NCC

Carolina Cuties . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46 Starring local little ones, as themselves . . .

Wipes Warmers, Baby Carriers, Bathtubs, Oh My! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .16 By Sara Kendall Make a list of must-have baby essentials based on advice from moms who’ve been there.

Clear the Clutter and Chaos . . . . . . . . .18 By Simplicity Organizers Hoping to get organized for the New Year but don’t know where to start? This handy guide will help you implement a successful plan for the whole family.

Picturesque Pineville . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20 By Renee Roberson Pineville has all the amenities of a growing city with plenty of small-town charm.

How Are You Filling Up the Space Between? . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24 By Jonathan DeVore A local blogger shares the importance of creating quality moments with children.

Snow Much Fun . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34 By Renee Roberson Embrace the colder winter months with these fun excursions.

Tips for Traveling to Disney World in the Off-Season . . . . . . . . . . . . . .36 By Stacy Cacciatore Hoping to miss the crowds and cash in on savings for your next trip to see Mickey? We’ve got the scoop. 2

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cover: Hailey is 3 years old and loves to dance and sing. Her favorite show is Mickey Mouse Clubhouse. Luther is 1 1/2 years old. He enjoys books, broccoli, and playing outside.

Photo by Crystal Phelps Photography Big thanks to Cedar Lake Tree Farm for letting us use their property for our cover shoot.

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Vol: 9 Issue #46

Publisher

renee & kerrie

Sharon Simpson

Sales Executive

Beth Packard

I have a little problem with clutter—both the idea and the reality of it. I’m pretty sure I can guess where it comes from, but that still doesn’t help my issues with it. When I was a kid, we moved around, a LOT. Because of constantly being in transition, there just wasn’t time for a lot of clutter to accumulate. Over time, I learned to fit my most prized possessions in a specific number of boxes and that was it. While there were definitely pros of never being able to hold on to a lot of “things,” there are also times I miss having access to many of my childhood mementos. Because we’ve lived in the same house since 2003, our family has had our fair share of clutter begin to fill the various rooms. My husband and kids are also very sentimental when it comes to toys and have made the decision to hold on to certain items for future children and grandchildren (such as Thomas the Tank Engine pieces, Little People sets, Legos, Littlest Pets, etc.) We have a system where we rotate toys in and out of the attic and garage. But when it starts to be too much, I either have to sit down and watch a marathon of the TV show “Hoarders” to make myself feel better or demand that everyone clean their rooms unless they want a very crabby mom walking around. Now I’m not saying I don’t store up my own fair share of clutter. I have a problem hoarding old magazines and books and if you could see my desk right now, you would laugh yourself silly. But I try to keep it all contained, for the most part. As hard as it is to admit, I have a difficult time getting into the holiday spirit when all the decorating boxes from the garage and boxes of new gifts begin to make their way into our home, which usually hasn’t been purged enough beforehand to my liking. When I read this issue’s article on creating “a year of simplicity,” I found myself taking a deep breath and realizing that change takes time, but if you break down the tasks monthly, serenity is possible. I hope everyone finds it as helpful as I did. At the end of the day, my home is never going to look like the inside of one of my favorite home and garden magazines. I don’t have a personal stylist and we don’t do photos shoots here. Our home is where we cook, spend time with one another, unwind after a long day, and get creative. Those things aren’t always neat and streamlined, because neither is life. I wish you joy and peace this holiday season.

Editor

Renee Roberson Creative Director & Co-Founder

Kerrie Boys 4

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Sales Executive

Trisha Robinson

Sales Executive

Taylor Buckley

Social Media Director

Michele Chastain mac21268@yahoo.com

Contributing Photographers

Photography by Chanda Crystal Phelps Photography Contributing Writers Stacy Cacciatore Jonathan DeVore Dr. Donna Hinkle Sara Kendall Theresa "Tree" Martus Leslie Petruk, MA, LPC, NCC, BCC Kiran Dodeja Smith Molly of Stilettos and Diapers Simplicity Organizers 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 2014 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.

book corner

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make it a

By Theresa “Tree” Martus, Children’s Manager, South County Regional Branch of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library

inter is here and it’s time to curl up with the little one in your life and enjoy a cozy evening reading a good book. Charlotte Mecklenburg Library is filled with books waiting to be shared. But, with all of these books, where should one begin? A great place to start is BookHive, a section of Charlotte Mecklenburg Library’s web site dedicated to providing book reviews for children ages birth through sixth grade. Over 2,000 reviews are carefully organized into categories to make searching easy. Each year BookHive publishes “Best of” lists highlighting amazing books that came out that year. These lists can be found under “Zinger’s Booklists” and all are available at the Library. Find BookHive at cmlibrary.org/bookhive. In addition to what BookHive has to offer, the Library is filled with expert children’s librarians who offer readers advisory assistance to help you find just the right book for children who cannot get enough of Pete the Cat, Clifford and the Berenstain Bears … not to mention princesses, trucks, trains and dinosaurs too! Information about Library locations can be found at www.cmlibrary.org. 6

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Not only can the Library help you find just the right book, our daily story times offer the opportunity to hear many great stories in a fun and interactive environment filled with books to inspire, music to get you moving and the chance to enhance early literacy skills. By talking, singing, reading, writing and playing we are engaging in five activities that will make lifelong learners and instill a love of good books. • Talking with children is one of the best ways to help them learn new words. • Singing helps teach new words by slowing down language enabling children to hear different sounds and learn syllables. • Reading is the single most important way to help children get ready to read. • Writing and reading go together. • Playing is one of the main ways that a child learns about the world and the language that defines this world. Get ready to talk, sing, read, write and play your way through a chilly winter day. Raising a child who loves books will warm your heart even on the coldest winter’s day. So, buzz on over to BookHive or sled on in to your local library and get ready to cuddle up close and read! Sizing Up Winter by Lizann Flatt (2013) How far can a snowflake fall? How high is the snow? Explore the wintery world in this book, part of the Math in Nature series. Wonderful collage illustrations and simple text filled with questions lead readers through a snowy landscape. Meet animals as they measure, compare, add and subtract. This book provides a wonderful way to introduce young readers to math concepts.

More than just a dance studio

DANCE ACADEMY

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Sleepyheads by Sandra J. Howatt (2014) The moon shines bright over sleeping heads in this charming picture book that leads us through forest and farm finding birds cuddled in nests, ducks snuggling in reeds, a dog beside the fireplace. But what is this? A teddy bear? A pillow? A bed? But where is the sleepyhead? Look and see, where could the child be? Sleepyheads is sweet book to share as you cuddle up with your own sleepyhead. Hickory Dickory Dog by Alison Murray (2014) Hickory, dickory, dock, it’s time for Zack to go to school. But what will his dog Rufus do? Dogs are not allowed in school. Hickory, dickory, sad but true. What is Rufus to do? Why, sneak in and play! Join Zack and Rufus during a school day with lunch and glue and then home again too. Simple rhym-ing text makes each moment an adventure for a boy and his Hickory, Dickory, Dog. www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms

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PHOTO COURTESY DSBG

One mom shares her family’s festive holiday traditions By Kiran Dodeja Smith

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venings are darker earlier and there’s a slight chill in the air. Delicious smells are wafting from ovens throughout the neighborhood, and little white lights are beginning to pop up on trees on many streets. Ah, yes—it’s that time of year with the holiday months that so many of us, especially the little ones, look forward to. Our area is home to so many wonderfully festive activities and events. And after living in Charlotte for 14 years now, we’ve certainly come up with a list of traditions and must-dos that we are sure to hit each year. Below are a few of our favorite things (and places) to see and do in the area:

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A winter wonderland like no other, DSBG offers an elegant event including hundreds of thousands of lights throughout the gardens. Take a stroll through the colorful lights, stop and hear the carolers, and step inside for a nature-based craft and a warm cup of cocoa. Be sure to see the beautiful Orchid Tree, train displays, and of course, Santa himself. The event runs Nov. 21 - Dec. 31. www.dsbg.org

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PHOTO BY JEFF CRAVOTTA

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Though I was quite the tomboy growing up, I most certainly remember going to see The Nutcracker when I was a little girl. So each year, I make it a tradition to take my three girls to see the North Carolina Dance Theater’s rendition. We get dressed up and head up to a really fun day or evening out — just the girls. Note: Do a Google search for discount tickets as I almost always can find a code. Performances run Dec. 13 - 22. www.blumenthalarts.org/

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Whether it’s SouthPark, Northlake or Carolina Place, a visit to the big man himself at the mall is something that we mark on our calendars each year. Living on the south side, we often frequent SouthPark, but Carolina Place is said to have a fantastic “version” to take pictures with. One thing I’ve learned is to try to visit during the week to avoid the longer lines. Though I personally enjoy the added hustle and bustle during the weekend.

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I love that kids as young as 3 years old can take in a play. And The Children’s Theatre of Charlotte always has a spectacular season set for the holidays. This year their lineup includes Scrooge! (ages 7+) and The Story of the Little Gentleman (ages 3+). Take the train uptown and spend some good quality time with the kiddos. Pay the Leonard

Bearstein Orchestra at Founders Hall a visit, too! www.ctcharlotte.org www.foundershall.com

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Though we have the famed McAdenville right in our neck of the woods, my family enjoys taking drives around various neighborhoods. And on those occasional warm winter evenings, we’ll even just stroll around our own streets taking in the lights and sounds. It’s free entertainment that the whole family enjoys. Kiran Dodeja Smith is a local mom of 4 children ages 10 and under.

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By Renee Roberson

Local organization celebrates its 26th year of helping children during the holidays hereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a certain kind of magic involved in tinsel, garland, sweet treats, stockings hung on the mantle and gift-wrapped packages under the tree. But for many children during the holidays, that magic can be hard to come by. That is where organizations such as One Special Christmas come in.

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The annual banquet and auction, typically held at Oehler’s BBQ Barn in Charlotte at the beginning of December, features handcrafted

wooden furniture—mostly donated by The Charlotte Woodworkers Association—and has added a variety of items throughout the years. For a time volunteers actually built a log cabin each year from the ground up for the sole purpose of selling it at the auction. Anyone can donate items for the auction, such as vacation rental properties, autographed memorabilia, art and furniture. All proceeds from the auction go toward the cost of providing gifts to many children in the state of North Carolina. Since its inception in 1989, One Special Christmas has raised more than $800,000, all for the sole purpose of helping children feel special during the holidays. “We feel like there are a lot of organizations out there to cover a lot of children,” says Valenti. “We try to find kids who might slip through the cracks of the system. In years past, we go to another impoverished area, such as Robeson and Cherokee counties. We ask guidance counselors at the schools to identify students who they feel might not be able to get Christmas gifts.”

Photo courtesy One Special Christmas

An Inspiring Auction

In 1973, Mooresville native Don Chapman was a college student at the Memphis College of Art in Tennessee and couldn’t afford to make the trip home for Christmas. Instead, he spent the break creating wooden toys in the school’s woodshop and donated them to a local orphanage. It was a tradition he loved so much that it has endured throughout the years, eventually turning into One Special Christmas, which is now run by members of Chapman’s family. One Special Christmas was formed after Chapman moved back home to Mooresville and began working at Central Piedmont Community College as a woodworking instructor. With the help of many volunteers and the campus woodshop, he continued producing wooden toys and gifting them to underprivileged children in the community. In 1989, the family decided to move away from gifting the wooden toys and held their first auction to raise money so children could receive more contemporary-style gifts. Sadly, Chapman passed away in 2003 after a courageous battle with leukemia, but his desire to give children the Christmas they deserve lives on. Chapman’s son Brendon serves as the CEO and his daughter, Emily Valenti, joined the board of directors in 2008.

Photo courtesy One Special Christmas

Humble Beginnings

The Magic Keeps Growing Last year, One Special Christmas added a new component—an online fundraiser that allowed the organization to provide gifts to children specifically in the Mooresville Graded School District. With the help of donations from the community, the organization was able to provide gifts for around 12 children specifically in Mooresville. “We want these children to feel the love and caring—that someone loves them,” says Valenti. “We want to know what they really want. We actually get their Christmas lists. We try to fulfill their Christmas wishes as closely as possible.” For more information, visit www.onespecialchristmas.com.

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little ones loves

Fringe always makes an outfit fun and fancy! at Shoe Zoo

Playtime by day, sleepy time by night. visit www.PlaytimeEDventures.com

A pillow with all things that go, zip, zoom, and fly will jazz up any boyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s room. at www.slumberstyle.com

For your budding culinary cutie. visit www.happychefuniforms.com

Nothing keeps little ones feet warm and cozy like UGGs. at Shoe Zoo

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A room styled to reflect YOUR child. 202.425.8162 contactus@slumberstyle.com www.slumberstyle.com

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SWING SW WING NG by b y t the he Zo Zoo oo for fo or all alll of y your our

cold col co old ldd we weather wea eaatth th r nnee ther the ne needs. eed eds ds. ds A little something they will FLIP for at Carolina Flipz

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610 Jetton St., Suite 140 • Davidson, NC 28036 704-895-7989 • Like us on Facebook

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And of course find Little Ones Magazine on facebook to keep up with area happenings, great giveaways and more!

“a little this and a little that”:) Get info on exciting events, activities and things to do. Sign up today by emailing info@littleonesmagazine.com and listing “e-newsletter” in the subject.

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top of the trends

your holiday party attire

By Molly of www.stilettosanddiapers.com

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(

ith the holidays quickly approaching, everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s schedule is getting filled with events. I think that leaves most of us standing in the closet, staring blankly, wondering what in the world to wear to these parties. I may go a little over the top with my clothing choices around the holidays, but I canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t resist a good excuse to wear some sparkle! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel like you have to go purchase a whole new outfit for all your holiday events, though. Accessories can make a big difference in pieces you already own. A sequin clutch, a statement necklace in gold or red, a hair accessory with some sparkle, or a pair of red pumps will give your outfit a more festive feel. An office party calls for something dressy. A classic black dress or skirt you already own, paired with red heels and sparkly accessories would be a favorite of mine. You could go very festive with a full red skirt, or a sequin-covered dress to really stand out. If you go bold with your clothing, pair that with more simple accessories, like diamond studs or pearls and a black clutch. If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re headed to a more casual party or dinner at someone's house, donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t feel like you have to completely change from your errand- running outfit from that day. A burgundy pump and a statement necklace will take your skinny jeans from day to night. For New Yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Eve, gold and sparkle are a must, in my opinion. A big trend I've seen for this season, are gold sequin leggings. I'd pair these with a black blazer and black pumps for a chic way to ring in the New Year, while still being comfortable and warm. I like to get a manicure for special events. It really makes your look complete when your nails are painted. Right now, I love a dark burgundy polish. If you choose a gel, it will stand up to the challenge of holiday baking and dish washing and possibly get you through a couple of your parties. The most important thing, though, is to feel good. Food and drinks will be plentiful and there are bound to be lots of pictures. You donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be uncomfortable and so worried about your outfit that you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have fun! Molly is a wife and boy mom, just trying to be June Cleaver. A southerner, who after living in New York, California and D.C., is back to her southern roots, now living in Lake Norman. She writes at www.stilettosanddiapers.com about fashion, motherhood and her attempts at mixing the two.

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wipes warmers,

baby carriers, bathtubs, oh my! Parents share their must-haves for baby’s first year By Sara Kendall

h, you are having a baby! What a wonderful and happy occasion. However, after the initial giddiness wears off, reality sets in and parents begin to ask, what now? Other than lots of diapers, what do I need for my baby? When you're expecting, putting together your baby registry can be very overwhelming. Everyone has their own opinion of what must-haves are for baby’s first year. Knowing where to start can feel like a daunting process, we asked two moms what they couldn’t live without during their baby’s first year, as well as a local nurse manager for her recommendations. 16

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-*&",-* According to Kerry Bratcher, Nurse Manager of Carolinas Healthcare System, “from a safety point of view, it’s important for the baby to have their own sleeping arrangement in a crib with a solid mattress without bumpers, pillows and stuffed animals to help prevent SIDS.” Independent studies agree with Bratcher. As recent as July 2014, a study published in the journal Pediatrics underscored the importance of providing infants their own sleeping space, with no pillows, bumpers, or stuffed animals.

$ ("& Elizabeth Carter, mom of daughter, Liddy, couldn’t live without the Miracle Blanket. Carter says, “The swaddle is impossible to get out of and was the only thing that kept her snug at night. After three nights of no sleep for anyone, she actually smiled when I put it on her for the first time.” Cloud B Sleep Sheep made all the difference for Dana Hoegh-Guldberg’s son, Logan. “The Sleep Sheep makes a few different sounds to help soothe Logan to sleep. You can fasten it to the crib with the Velcro strap.” Hoegh-Guldberg travels frequently with the kids, and she brings Cloud B Sleep Sheep along, as she believes having something familiar helps Logan fall asleep easier in a foreign environment.

,!"& Hoegh-Guldberg found a foam bath mat was handy for those first 3-4 months when the baby is so tiny and slippery to handle in a bathing situation. She says, “Since they cannot sit up, they cannot go into a chair, making it difficult to wash them. It was easy to fill the bottom of the tub with warm water, lay him down on the soft mat and sponge bathe him.” Hoegh-Guldberg liked the fact it provides padding, prevents slipping and absorbs water to keep their backsides warm. She would place a warm wet washcloth on the tummy to keep Logan warm as she washed his body.

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A friend gave Carter a wipes warmer and she thought it was a total waste, but ended up being her biggest surprise. “Now, I wouldn’t live without it. Diaper changing time can be a struggle enough, why make it worse with cold wipes?” says Carter. The Carters spent a lot of money on expensive skincare products that only left dry patches on their baby’s skin. “Her problems were solved almost immediately when we switched to the $3 bottle of Johnson and Johnson Baby Wash,” says Carter.

“A simple basic rectal thermometer is the most reliable for getting an accurate temperature,” says Bratcher. “We recommend when a temperature is 100.4 or higher, a parent needs to call the doctor’s office. Knowing an accurate temperature, a parent will know when you to call the doctor’s office or when it can wait.” Bratcher advises to keep a nostril aspirator everywhere – at home, in the car, at their childcare, and at grandma’s house. “A baby can get choked up on mucus and a lot of times a parent will need to use it. If you are unsure how to properly work it, bring to your baby’s next doctor’s appointment and ask a nurse how to use it,” says Bratcher. Now, there’s a medicine pacifier that you can place medicine inside it and babies just suck the medicine right out. “That beats trying to use a syringe to get the baby to take the medicine,” says Hoegh-Guldberg.

* .$ Keeping your baby safe and happy while traveling, even if it’s just to the doctor and back is important. “A properly sized, rear-facing car seat for car travel is recommended by the American Academy of Pediatrics. They also recommend that all infants and toddlers ride in a rear facing car seat until they are at least 2 years old,” says Bratcher. The Carter’s baby loves the Baby Bjorn baby carrier. “It’s my secret weapon on airplanes. The second she gets fussy, I put her in it and walk down the aisles. She is immediately calmed,” says Carter.

,, *+

Living in a city, the Carters worried about radio frequencies crossing and they didn’t want their neighbors seeing or hearing into their house. “Our Levana Video Monitor is a secure video monitor that let's us see her without going into the room and we know it is private,” says Carter. Bratcher recommends installing safety latches onto all cabinets especially those cabinets where cleaners or medications are stored. She advises having the poison control hotline on hand, if an unfortunate accident should occur. Baby gates are essential for stairways and rooms that are not suitable for small children. Bratcher advises putting them in place when a baby becomes mobile. Sara Kendall is a freelance writer and mom of two daughters, who lives in Charlotte. www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms

clear the before:

Success is possible with this monthly guide to getting organized By Simplicity Organizers Photos Courtesy of Simplicity Organizers

here is an ancient Chinese proverb, “A journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.” Organizing your entire house might seem as challenging as a thousand miles on foot, but with a decision to change, a vision, and a solid plan you’ll be on your way.

1. Recognize when you are ready – it’s a choice. Living a more simplified life starts by acknowledging it’s time for change. If you have hit rock bottom with the clutter and chaos in your home and life, your first step is making a change to change.

2. Be prepared. Be patient. Be smart. Before you begin the paring down and de-cluttering process in your home, be prepared to face emotional obstacles. Be patient with yourself on items that stir up memories, but be smart and don’t start with them. If you aren’t ready to face your memorabilia, but your kitchen is easy – start there. Remember success breeds success. 18

3. Be realistic. Stacks, piles, and over-crowded areas of your home didn't happen overnight and it won’t all go away overnight. Estimate how long you think an area will take and then time yourself. This will help you gauge future projects so you know how much time to schedule for yourself to start and finish an area of your home. Know going in, MOST projects are going to take much longer than you think!

4. Avoid Calendar Clutter. There is a major external clutter in all our lives – our overcrowded calendars! A lot of the clutter in your home and life can most likely be attrib-uted to not leaving any time in your daily schedule for regular home organization

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after:

maintenance. Set clear boundaries for yourself and your family in the New Year to allow for more time to maintain the spaces.

5. Set weekly/monthly goals & appointments. THIS IS KEY. With more time on your calendar to devote to your simplification process you will need to hold yourself accountable to organizing your own life. Consider lining up donation pick-ups ahead of time so you have the extra motivation of a deadline.

6. Hold off on supplies. Discovering what organizational supplies you will need is one of the last steps in the process. Save money and time by waiting until you know what

you need. Unnecessary supplies can add to your frustration. Consider getting creative when using items you already have in your home to help you organize.

7. Maintenance – Routines are key. Organizing is an on-going journey with a “Clutter Back Guarantee.” If you don’t work to maintain your spaces(s), the clutter will come back. Build in regular times to purge throughout the year: before and after holidays, birthdays and seasons are easy times of the year to make a pass of areas in your home.

Helping Children Keep Clutter at Bay

before:

after:

8. Know when to ask for help. If you become overwhelmed or do not feel like you are making much progress, call in a family member, friend or a professional for help.

one day at a time ...

If you’re like many parents, the thought of more toys and electronic gifts coming into your home is enough to dampen your holiday spirit. Local professional organizer Karin Solomonson has some advice for you: “Even children can learn to purge, and this is the perfect time of the year to do it,” she says. “Have a goal of clearing out the same number of toys you bring in so you don’t feel like it controls you in the New Year. “It’s usually easier to let it go if you talk about donating to someone else. Make sure to have a trash can and charity box ready to fill.”

Here’s a list of possibilities to spark your enthusiasm. Focus on completing one area each month: January: Desk/Home Office. Organize your finances before tax season officially begins.

July: Playroom. Work with your children to pare down and identify what they truly love and use.

February: Mudroom/Laundry Room. Start by pulling everything out. Decide what you are actually using in this space.

August: Cabinets and Drawers. Use labels! Labels hold everyone in the family accountable to putting things away where they belong.

March: Clothing closets. Switch out your mismatched hangers to uniform hangers. As you swap hangers, decide if that article of clothing is really worth keeping.

September: Garage. Set aside a full day. Divide items into three categories: Keep, Trash, Donate.

April: Technology. Dedicate 15 minutes a day to purging old photos and emails. May: Bathrooms. Use non-slip drawer dividers to keep like items together in bathroom drawers. June: Photos/Memorabilia. Organize your photos by year or event. It’s time to chose the best masterpieces from the year and let the rest go.

October: Kitchen. Clean out the old and expired items since the holidays are around the corner. November: Attic/ Basement. Add shelving to create vertical space. December: Bedrooms. Create a reading nook. Bedrooms should be a place that represents rest and calm.

good luck!

Solomonson also recommends asking older children three questions: Love it? Need it? Use it? They should be able to answer yes to two of them to keep the toys/clothes/electronics. For younger children, store toys in open cubbies labeled with both a picture and words so young children can sort their own toys. You can even label dresser drawers with pictures/words so they can put away clothes. Karin Solomonson’s company, mundo99, is all about expanding your world by reducing clutter, redirecting time, and reclaiming your dreams. Check out her blog at www.mundo99.com.

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" ,-* +)-

"& ."$$

By Renee Roberson

Find festivals, parks and more just on the border of South Carolina

ineville has become an attractive place for families to settle down in, and for good reason. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s close enough to Charlotte for commuters to get to work while also having enough entertainment and shopping for those who want a break from the daily hustle and bustle. Residents have access to topnotch medical centers such as Carolinas Medical Center-Pineville, spacious parks and recreation facilities, close-knit neighborhoods and a growing downtown area.

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Come Flip With Us! Recreational Gymnastics Boys & Girls 6mths-17yrs • Competitive Teams

704-909-9414 • Charlotte, NC www.PediatricHairSolutions.com Room for Play Pineville has an impressive offering of parks and recreation facilities, including Jack D. Hughes Memorial Park. The park opened in the 1960s but has undergone renovations in recent years to provide visitors with extra amenities such as a 1.5-mile walking trail, a multi-purpose field for various sports, two softball fields, a collegiate-size baseball stadium, picnic shelters, two batting cages, and buildings with restrooms and concessions. My own kids have visited the playground, which features very unique stationary equipment, at Jack D. Hughes Memorial Park and have been begging to go back ever since. Pineville Lake Park is home to many annual events such as the Pineville FallFest in October, complete with fair food and carnival rides, the tree lighting in early December and the Rockin’ and Reelin’ Concert and Movie series. It features a spacious walking trail around the lake, numerous picnic shelters and a playground, as well as Belle Johnston Community Center. For indoor enter-tainment and birthday parties, Monkey Joe’s and Sky High Sports Trampoline Park have become such popular spots that they attract even families from outside of the Pineville area.

A Retail Haven The downtown area of Pineville is truly charming. Strolling down the sidewalks you’ll find everything from historic buildings, cafes, retails stores and ice cream shops. Business owners are taking advantage of the revitalization of the downtown area by opening antique stores, craft shops, stores featuring upcycled and repurposed home décor items and pet stores. Local baker Mandie Miller, who has been featured in both national and regional news for her unique cakes and entrepreneurial spirit, has also opened up a storefront on Main Street in the Out Back Shops, where she sells cakes by slice on a daily basis. Just a few miles up the street is the popular Carolina Place Mall, with its variety of department stores, restaurants, entertainment and children’s play area.

A Presidential Birthplace Pineville also happens to be the birthplace of James K. Polk, the 11th president of the United States, and home to a state historic site (http://www.nchistoricsites.org/ polk/polk.htm) that sits on land once owned by Polk’s parents. Visitors can visit the site, located on Lancaster Highway, and take in reconstructions of homestead buildings featuring a log cabin, a separate kitchen and a barn. There are also picnic facilities, a gift shop, trails, monuments dedicated to Polk and a visitor center.

•Gymnastics, Cheerleading & Tumbling •Small Class Ratios •Plenty of one-on-one Attention •Progressive skills program •Open Gym, Private Lessons, Kid’s Night Out, Summer Camps and year round FUN!

704-544-4511 • www.CarolinaFlipz.com 11812 Carolina Place Parkway, Suite B Pineville, NC 28134 Our Mission: To educate kids on physical and mental health wellness through safe, positive gymnastics instruction year round that builds each athletes confidence, leadership, and technique while having fun.

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just a spoonful

of sugar

how you can help your kids experience the joy of baking By Renee Roberson

ver the years, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve discovered a love for baking cookies, and have become pretty good at it, if I do say so myself. I like baking them because I usually have most of the ingredients I need for them in the pantry and refrigerator, and they make a quick and easy dessert when I need to take something to a party or school function. In past years, Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve even baked several batches of different cookies and packaged them up in cellophane and bows to accompany the teachersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; gifts we pass out in December. The catch? I can be . . . a little controlling when it comes to my cookie making. I hate to admit that, but in the past my kids have started to help me and eventually tired of standing there and watching me mix the ingredients. They usually leave and return only when the cookies are fresh out of the oven. Now that the kids are 8 and 11, I decided to try a little experiment where I let them do most of the work. After all, my daughter is studying fractions now in school and measuring ingredients is a great way to experience how to use them in everyday tasks. 22

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Chocolate Mint Kiss Cookies (courtesy of www.lifeasmom.com)

What I Planned: Initially I was just going to hand them the recipe for the Chocolate Mint Kiss Cookies (see recipe on next page) and see what they came up with. But after they gathered all the ingredients from the pantry and fridge I decided I might need to assist just a little, especially because they didn’t have a lot of experience using the handheld mixer, melting butter, and I wanted us to be safe. How it Went: It went better than I thought, and I’m pretty sure the kids (especially my daughter) are going to be initiating their own baking projects here pretty soon. My husband has let them assist with making batter for pancakes and waffles in the past so they knew more than I thought they did. They both stood on kitchen chairs at our island so they could have an easier time mixing the ingredients. They loved using my colorful plastic measuring cups from Pampered Chef (there were a few different times when they had to figure out what combinations of the cups to use) and took turns reading the recipe out loud. I helped my son melt the butter in a glass measuring cup in the microwave because he was a little nervous about that part, and both kids impressed me with their egg-cracking skills. They also used the mixer carefully and didn’t splatter batter all over themselves, which is what I envisioned happening. They even came up with a good solution when the batter they mixed was a little too sticky to roll into dough balls—“add more flour to make it thicker!” It was a great lesson on how you sometimes have to tweak a recipe to get it just right. The Best Part: They had such a sense of pride when the cookies came out of the oven, and were proud to offer them to their dad when he came home. This was a test run as we head into the holiday season, and guess who’s going to be baking their own teacher gifts this year?

Electrolux and American Heart Association Inspire Kids to Cook Healthy o you have a budding chef in your family who aspires to one day compete on the popular Food Network show “Iron Chef?” Middle school students in Charlotte had the chance to play out that dream in a recent Iron Chef-style competition in the Kids Cook with Heart cooking challenge. Electrolux and the American Heart Association (AHA) teamed up for a program that provided key skills for students to grow into healthy adults. Designed to foster life skills in advocacy, leadership, responsibility and teamwork, Kids Cook with Heart underscored the importance of healthy cooking and eating with fellow students, friends and family. Three teams of James Martin Middle School students competed in a two-week program for a chance to make it to the final competition hosted at the Electrolux Innovation Center. Electrolux and AHA partnered with culinary professionals including chefs, nutritionists and health teachers to assist and instruct the classes.

• 1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 1 1/2 teaspoon baking powder • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/2 cup cocoa • 1/2 cup butter, softened • 1 cup sugar • 6 Tablespoons brown sugar • 2 eggs • 1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla • 1/4 teaspoon peppermint extract • Hershey chocolate mint kisses, wrappers removed • Powdered sugar for rolling Instructions: 1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. 2. Combine flour, baking powder, cocoa, and salt; set aside. Beat butter with a mixer on medium speed for 30 seconds. Beat in sugars until combined. Beat in eggs, vanilla, and mint flavoring. Stir in flour mixture. 3. Shape dough into 1-inch balls and roll balls in powdered sugar. Place balls about two inches apart on an ungreased cookie sheet. 4. Bake in preheated oven for 10-12 minutes or until tops are crackled. Cool two minutes on cookie sheet. Press kisses candies into the center of each cookie ball. Transfer to wire racks to cool. Makes around 42 cookies.

Unique to this year's competition was the panel of judges, including: • Chef Alyssa Gorelick, owner of Chef Alyssa’s Kitchen • Victor Gaglio, SVP and Chief Utility Operations Officer, Piedmont Natural Gas • Eloise Hale, VP, Corporate Communications, Electrolux • Kathleen Purvis, Food Editor, The Charlotte Observer The judges taste tested and chose the 2014 winner, a team that included Treveon Hampton and Brenden Sullivan, both 13, from the final three teams. The finalists competed on Frigidaire Gallery® equipped cooking stations for a chance to win the 2014 Kids Cook with Heart championship title and take home a new Frigidaire blender.

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parenting moments

How Are You Filling Up the

Space Between? By Jonathan DeVore

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woke up Saturday morning at 7:30 to write an article; however, I didn’t end up writing anything – instead, I took an opportunity to bond with my daughter in the “space between.” The “space between” is a phrase I sort of made up. (I know Dave Matthews wrote a song with that title – but frankly, I have no idea what that song means.) I’ve found that between all of the planned events and the rush of having a schedule, there often exists a space. It’s open for spontaneity, teaching moments, learning moments, and humbling moments.

I decided to take advantage of this “space between” moment, and drive 20 minutes to grab a box of Krispy Kreme Donuts. On our way, my daughter was happy to talk to me and share things from her week that I normally don’t get to hear. And that’s the beauty of these moments – everybody’s guard is down. We can talk with our children, and get them talking to us. The moments aren’t planned, they just sort of happen – we can only hope to recognize and take advantage of them. I want to take advantage of them, even if it throws off my “day off.” Because when life is over, I don’t believe God will ask me how much money I made or what kind of car I drove – He’ll ask me,

It’s open for spontaneity, teaching moments, learning moments, and humbling moments.

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Above: DeVore’s daughter Anna shaves his face with a “razorless” razor.

This moment isn’t monumental or always obvious – in fact, the “space between” can easily be overlooked and wasted. If you’re not careful, you will spend that precious time watching YouTube videos, checking your email, or drowning everybody out with a song on the radio. That Saturday morning, I had a plan to write – so I woke up before everybody else, went downstairs, and began to type. But then I noticed some footsteps, heard a door squeak, and listened to my 4-year old daughter begin to cry. She woke up with a headache and wasn’t feeling well. I gave her some medicine, and it was at this point I had a choice. I could either plop her in front of the iPad to watch Netflix while I went back to what I had planned, or I could embrace this opportunity and spend the morning with her.

“Where’s your family?” And He might even ask me, “Where are your friends?” And these moments are an opportunity for me to strengthen relationships with people – family, friends, and strangers. If my relationships are strong, perhaps I can influence others in a positive way, to live a better life. Because one day, I will answer God, and I hope my answer is, “They are right here.” Jonathan DeVore is 31 and lives in Huntersville with his wife and two daughters (with a boy on the way). He was a CPA before joining his brothers’ startup software business, and now does their sales and marketing. He blogs early in the morning at www.charlottedad.com about fatherhood with a focus on teaching children how to be great.

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ask the therapist

the

“mean girl” epidemic why it happens and how to handle It

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By Leslie Petruk, MA, LPN, NCC, BCC ave you ever watched some of the shows targeted to tweens and teens and noticed how aggressive and inappropriate the female characters are with their parents, adults and peers? The Disney Channel was banned from our house years ago when my oldest daughter started acting and talking like the girls on the shows she was watching. Nicole Martins, a researcher from Indiana University, found that 92 percent of 150 popular children’s shows contained some type of relational and/or social aggression typically exhibited by the attractive female character. In her study, she also found that watching these shows does impact girls and results in them taking on similar behaviors, however, the same is not true for boys. So, what creates a “mean girl?” The primary contributing factor is that we do not teach girls (or boys) how to deal with their feelings when they are angry or hurt. Additionally, they are not taught how to resolve conflict appropriately. Our children learn behaviors through what is modeled for them through TV, peers, parents and other adults. They watch how you and your spouse address and deal with hurt and anger with one another and within the family. They see how their teachers resolve conflict with each other, if they play favorites or if they humiliate students in their class. They also watch closely to see how you deal with your feelings. If you sweep your feelings

under the carpet or say you are “fine” when you really aren’t, that is what your children are learning to do with their feelings. If you aren’t direct when you are angry but then give your spouse the silent treatment or act in a passive/aggressive manner, your child will learn the same thing. This type of relational aggression is a form of bullying. Do you talk about other people in front of your daughter? Do you pretend you like someone to their face and then immediately turn around and make snide comments about them? Are you engaging in a popularity competition through your daughter? If so, you are likely teaching your daughter how to be a mean girl. The connection and relationship you have with your daughter has a direct impact on how she relates to you and others. If you are a mother who fights all of your daughter’s battles for her in attempt to protect her, you are not empowering her and teaching her how to resolve conflict in a direct and appropriate manner. If you are overbearing and controlling, she will become sneaky and keep things from you. If you try to be her best friend versus her parent she won’t learn from making her own mistakes and will have difficulty becoming independent and confident. If she does separate (as children should) from you, you will likely feel rejected and abandoned which may lead to her pushing you away even more. Girls who are not encouraged or allowed to separate from their parents can easily become dependent on them, thus negatively impacting their ability to become confident and healthy adults. A sense of entitlement is learned when we hover over our daughters, don’t hold them accountable for their behaviors because of our own denial, or fight their battles for them. They will go into the world expecting the same from all of their relationships and ill equipped to deal with conflict appropriately when it occurs—and it will occur. We do a great disservice to our daughters when we don’t empower them to think for themselves, learn from their mistakes, experience the consequences of their behaviors, learn how to resolve conflict appropriately, and fail to teach them to advocate for themselves. Relational aggression IS bullying and unfortunately, it does seem to be happening at younger ages. Here are some ways girls bully each other and great talking points to address with your daughter: • A girl walks up to a group of their friends and they all stop talking or their smiles suddenly drop. • A group of girls who are friends go on a trip or outing together, or have a party leaving one of their friends in the group out and then post pictures on social media (exclusion is so painful for girls and so common). • A group of girls who are friends talk about each other behind their backs or gang up on one another. • Elementary-age girls will exclude a friend on the playground, telling her that she can’t play with them. • Girls telling another girl, “I’m not going to invite you to my birthday party.” • Talking about social events they did or will do together in front of a girl that was/is not invited. • Not acknowledging someone’s presence – pretending

Moms’ Night Out Join us for

Sipevenings’nat Bright Serve Blessings!

Catered Appetizers, Wine & Beverages, Sweet Treats, Volunteer Projects AND… A Fabulous Opportunity to Socialize, Serve and Make a Difference for Local Homeless Children! A $20 donation per person includes the appetizers, beverages, desserts, and sponsors the gifts and project supplies for local homeless children. Gather your friends and join us! Space is limited for each event, and advance registration is required. Visit our calendar of events at www.BrightBlessingsUSA.org to sign up.

Friday, January 16, 2015 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Can’t make it to one of our scheduled events? Schedule your own!

Friday, February 13, 2015 6:30-8:30 p.m.

Giving Night Out events can accommodate groups of 8-25 participants and are available on an as requested, as available basis. Events typically last 1 ½ to 2 hours.

Friday, March 20, 2015 6:30-8:30 p.m.

To schedule your GNO at Bright Blessings, please contact Leah Baum at groups@brightblessingsusa.org or call 704-846-2329.

The Giving Village at Bright Blessings 608-A Matthews Mint Hill Road Matthews, North Carolina

704-846-2329 www.BrightBlessingsUSA.org

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“A sense of entitlement is learned when we hover over our daughters, don’t hold them accountable for their behaviors because of our own denial, or fight their battles for them.”

they don’t exist. • Refusing to engage or talk with a girl or saying something hurtful or embarrassing. It is important to talk to your daughter about these kinds of behaviors and if it’s happened to her, how it felt and if she ever treated someone that way, how she thinks that girl felt. It is critical that our girls learn to be empathic. Teaching our daughters how to have compassion for others and resolve conflict is key in avoiding these types of aggressive behaviors. None of these conversations should be lectures, but discussions with your daughter. In order to have these types of conversations it is important that you have a connection with your daughter that allows her the safety to be open and vulnerable with you and that she knows that it won’t be used against her. Parents tend to do way too much lecturing and not enough asking. 28

For example, rather then, “Why did you do that, you know that’s hurtful to others...” (this will put your daughter in automatic defense mode), you can say, “I noticed that you weren’t very kind to your friend and I’m wondering if you are angry with her about something?” With younger children you can ask, “How do you think she felt when you told her she couldn’t play with you?” I always teach parents I work with that when they catch themselves lecturing or about to start lecturing to stop and start asking questions in a genuinely caring way (tone is important here) and you are much more likely to accomplish what you hoped to through a lecture (which typically falls on deaf ears). A sense of power is part of what “mean girls” are gaining by these aggressive behaviors. Everyone likes to feel a sense of power but when it is at the expense of someone else, our girls

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need to know that is not acceptable. If your child is a “mean girl,” don’t turn your head, justify or deny it—talk to her and get to the root of what it’s about (insecurity, fear of rejection, etc.). If it persists, seek professional help for you and your daughter. If your daughter is on the receiving end of a mean girl, acknowledge how hurtful it is, support her and empower her to decide how she wants to handle it. If it becomes a pattern of bullying then address it with her teacher and/or school counselor/administration, even if your child doesn’t want you to, it is important that you don’t buy into the “code of silence” that goes with mean girl bullying. Leslie Petruk, MA, LPN, 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.

Child Care & PreschoolKnow The Differences Focus on the options

By Dr. Donna Hinkle

ou’ll teach your child more than any other teacher. And you may also need full-day child care and preschool. You’ll want the best, because you and child care quality will affect your child’s success all the way through high school graduation. You may only need part-day preschool. You’ll still want the best, because even a part-day preschool will affect your child’s development and can help her start school ready to develop and learn and reach her potential and dreams. Here’s a little about what you need to know about the ins and outs of child care and preschool in North Carolina: Religious-Sponsored FullDay Child Care and Preschool Centers • Don’t have to get a North Carolina child care license • Don’t have to comply with some North Carolina child care rules, e.g., corporal punishment and daily schedule and lesson plan outlines posted for parents • Must get a notice of compliance with the rules they have to follow, minimum standards for child care in North Carolina • Get inspected once a year and comply with the rules they have to follow • Can choose to follow all North Carolina child care rules and get a North Carolina child care license with 1 star • Can choose to follow higher child care standards and get a North Carolina child care license with 2 – 5 stars • Can choose to keep 2 - 5 stars by getting re-evaluated every three years Other Full-Day Child Care & Preschool Centers and Large Child Care & Preschool Homes • Must get a North Carolina child care license with 1 star • Must comply with all North Carolina child care rules • Get inspected once a year and comply with 75 percent of all North Carolina child care rules • Can choose to follow higher child care standards and get a North Carolina license with 2 5 stars • Can choose to keep 2 – 5

stars by getting re-evaluated every three years No Part-Day Preschool or Small Child Care Home • Has to comply with any North Carolina child care rules • Gets inspected • Gets a North Carolina child care license All Child Care and Preschool Centers • Can choose to get nationally accredited by following standards set by an accreditation organization • Can choose to get National Association for the Education of Young Children accreditation by following the highest standards in the child care industry • Can choose to keep NAEYC accreditation by doing an annual report, updating major information and allowing unannounced visits, and getting re-evaluated every five years Large Child Care and Preschool Homes • Can choose to get National Association for Family Child Care accreditation • Can choose to keep NAFCC accreditation by updating information once a year Dr. Donna Hinkle founded PickyParents.Net to offer professional advice and hands-on help to parents making child care and preschool decisions, because no one else does it. E-mail her at Donna@ PickyParents.Net for more information.

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

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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

Our Pediatric Neurologists are experts in the diagnosis & management of all diseases of the nervous system.

Robert A. Nahouraii, MD Charlotte Location Stephanie Robinett, MD Charlotte & Concord Locations Call for an evaluation of your child’s condition.

704-335-3400

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• Attention Deficit Disorder • Seizure • Migraine • Spells • Epilepsy Monitoring • Pediatric EEG’s • Cerebral Palsy • Developmental Delay

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Photo by Crystal Phelps Photography

out & about

+,". $" !,+

holiday surprises!

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Amelia Catherine Photography

DECEMBER WBT’s Holiday on Ice What: Holiday on Ice continues its tradition of bringing Charlotte the coolest place in the city, an outdoor ice skating rink in the heart of Uptown. See website for hours. Holiday on Ice only accepts cash, but tickets can be purchased ahead of time online with debit/credit cards. When: Through Jan. 4 Where: The corner of MLK Blvd. and Brevard on The NASCAR Hall of Fame Plaza. http://www.wbt.com/holidayonice/

Scrooge! What: Celebrate the holidays at Children’s Theatre with this charming musical extravaganza. Miserly Ebenezer Scrooge's “Bah!, Humbug!” opinion of Christmas grates on everyone around him. But when Scrooge is visited by the ghost of his former partner and three Christmas spirits, he learns to change his ways—just in time for Christmas Day! There’s something for everyone in this Yuletide treat. Recommended for ages 7 and older. When: Dec. 5 – 22 Where: McColl Family Theatre www.ctcharlotte.org

32nd Annual North Mecklenburg Christmas Parade What: The Davidson Fire Department and CorneliusLemley Volunteer Fire Department are gearing up for the holiday season with a fun assortment of floats, troops, bands and more for the whole family to enjoy.

When: Dec. 6 at 1 p.m. Where: North Main at Griffith Street (in Davidson) www.ci.davidson.nc.us

The ADFA Nutcracker Ballet What: 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. This performance is guaranteed to put you in the holiday spirit and is sure to become your holiday tradition year after year. *All proceeds from the Friday evening performance on Dec. 5 will go to Ace and TJ’s Grin Kids, a nonprofit organization that enhances the lives of terminally ill and handicapped children in the area with trips to Walt Disney World. When: Dec. 5 at 6 p.m. and Dec. 6 at 10 a.m. Where: Elevation Lake Norman www.adfastudio.com

Candlelight Christmas What: Step back in time to a Latta family Christmas as you tour the plantation by candlelight. Visitors will meet the Latta family and see them celebrate the holiday through dancing, music, and storytelling. Visitors will also have the opportunity to see cooking in the kitchen and visit a Live Nativity starring the Latta farm animals. When: Dec. 6 from 6 – 9 p.m. Where: Latta Plantation www.lattaplantation.org www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms

Photo Courtesy Carolina Voices

Nutcracker What: Charlotte’s favorite holiday tradition — Nutcracker — celebrates the sights and sounds of the holiday season. Bring your family and friends along for this holiday voyage featuring choreography by Jean-Pierre Bonnefoux, live music from the Charlotte Symphony and over 100 performers. Be there as the Nutcracker Prince triumphs over the evil Mouse King and as the Sugar Plum Fairy entertains Clara, her Nutcracker Prince and the audience with dazzling dancing sweets. Nutcracker is recommended for all ages. When: Dec. 12 – 21 Where: Belk Theater www.charlotteballet.org

The Story of the Little Gentleman What: Get into the spirit of the holidays with this delightful story about the true meaning of friendship. Nobody seems to have time for the little gentleman, which makes him sad. But he soon discovers a wonderful new friend who changes his life forever. This beautiful, funny and moving tale features live musicians and a uniquely intimate style all its own. Recommended for ages 3 and older. When: Dec. 13 – 28 Where: Wells Fargo Playhouse www.ctcharlotte.org 32

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Photo by Peter Zay

Petpalooza What: Celebrate your favorite companions, whether they’re furry, feathered, scaly or slimy! Visit with exotic and rescued pets and learn about responsible pet ownership. (Please leave your own pets at home for this event). When: Jan. 17 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Where: Charlotte Nature Museum www.charlottenaturemuseum.org

Lilly’s Purple Plastic Purse

The Singing Christmas Tree for KIDS Starring the Grey Seal Puppets What: Grab a seat on the Polar Express and get into the spirit of the season at this family-friendly show that includes rousing sing-a-longs, favorite kids holiday tunes, magical puppets, amazing dancers and, of course, a visit from Santa Claus. At just one hour in length, the show is perfect for children ages 3 to 10 and offers parents a wonderful way to introduce young children to the arts. Purchase tickets at $10 or $20 through www.carolinatix.org or www.ticketmaster.com. When: Dec. 13 at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Where: Ovens Auditorium www.carolinavoices.org •••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••

JANUARY

What: Lilly is a mouse who knows what she likes. She likes her pointy pencils, her glittery movie-star glasses and her three shiny quarters. But most of all, Lilly likes her brand new purple plastic purse! Along with her friends Chester, Wilson and her beloved teacher, Mr. Slinger, Lilly finds endless adventures fueled by her delightfully oversized imagination. Recommended for ages 5 and older. When: Jan. 23 – Feb. 15 Where: McColl Family Theatre www.ctcharlotte.org

Mike Mulligan and His Steam Shovel What: Mike Mulligan and his beloved Steam Shovel, Mary Anne, have been together for many years. But times have changed and newer, fancier shovels have become fashionable, leaving them out of work and down to their last dime. Their final hope lies in the little town of Popperville, which needs a basement dug for its new City Hall. The story of hard work, determination and friendship comes to life in this charming musical adaptation, where we learn that the newest, biggest or most expensive isn’t necessarily the best. Recommended for ages 4 and older. When: Jan. 24 – Feb. 8 Where: Wells Fargo Playhouse www.ctcharlotte.org

Sunday Fun Day: All About the Blues

Fun with “The Snow Queen”

What: Blast away the winter blues with fun, color-themed museum tours, art activities, and a blues jam band! When: Jan. 11 from 1 – 4 p.m. Where: Mint Museum Uptown www.mintmuseum.org

What: Learn about “The Snow Queen” and explore games, crafts and fun with Matthews Playhouse. When: Jan. 29 at 4:30 p.m. Where: Matthews Library www.cmlibrary.org www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms

snow much fun

Forget the cold—get them outside for a winter adventure they’ll love By Renee Roberson Photos by PhotographybyChanda by Dawn

e are fortunate to live in an area with a moderate climate, but sometimes the little ones (and grown ups!) just want to play in the snow. Luckily, there are plenty of places to put those skis and sleds to use just a few hours away. Charlotte mom Dawn Strouse and her family love to take advantage of snow sports such as sledding, skiing and tubing all over North Carolina, and even plan on spending the New Year at Snowshoe Resort, W. Va. Closer by, one of Strouse’s favorite places to stay with her family is Globe Valley Ranch (www.globevalleyranch.com). “It is a beautiful cabin with a renovated barn on 117 acres. It’s only about 20 minutes fro Blowing Rock and surrounded by lots of outdoor things to do,” she says. Snow Boots, Snow Suits and So Much More Trying to figure out how to dress the kids for fun in the snow without breaking the bank can be challenging, but it’s not impossible. “If you are planning to play in the snow once, go to Wal-Mart or Target,” Strouse says. “The winter gear there 34

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is perfectly adequate for a few trips here and there. Kids grow so fast that sometimes it’s not worth the money unless you are planning to become a ski bunny family. For those who will be out on the slopes or in the snow all winter, REI has some great gear that is usually on sale. Obermeyer (www.obermeyer.com) has an awesome kids’ line of clothing that has a ‘grow with me’ feature that can extend a children’s size for several sizes. For example, we bought my youngest daughter a set this year that is a 4T but will ‘grow’ into a 7.” Not sure where to start in planning your trip? Here are a few places you might want to check out during the upcoming winter season.

Appalachian Ski Mountain Blowing Rock, N.C. Located in Blowing Rock, guests at Appalachian Ski Mountain can customize packages that include everything from lodging to childcare to lessons, ski tickets for a variety of slopes, equipment/clothing rental, ice skating and more. Strouse recommends Appalachian Ski Mountain because it is family friendly and features a great ski school for children who are beginning skiers and snowboarders. It also has season memberships available.

Sugar Mountain Banner Elk, N.C. Visitors to Sugar Mountain can participate in a variety of activities, such as skiing on beginner, intermediate, black diamond and double black diamond slopes, tubing, ice skating and snowshoeing. As an added bonus, at Sugar Mountain, skiers four and under ski free. The resort also offers skiing and snowboarding lessons for children of any age, as well as an onsite childcare service open both daytime and evening hours. For more variety, visitors can tube from 10 a.m. to 10 p.m. at night on the 700-foot-long tubing lanes in two-hour sessions.

Hawksnest Seven Devils, N.C. Hawksnest has the distinction of being the largest snow-tubing park on the East Coast. The park features 20 lanes designed for snow tubing with four different areas to snow tube and two conveyor belts to return tubers back to the top of the lanes. Hawknest produces its own snow

and has lighting on all lanes in order to offer the best possible conditions for visitors. For an extra thrill, Hawksnest now offers winter ziplining for ages five and older. Zippers can even yell down to their snow tubing friends as they begin their journey.

Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing Jonas Ridge, N.C. For a fun but low-key tubing experience, try out Jonas Ridge Snow Tubing, located near Newland, N.C. Grab a tube and ride down six lanes of varying speeds depending on the skill level of the tuber. Take a break from tubing or warm up by the fire inside The Lodge and sip on a warm beverage. Note: Jonas Ridge only accepts cash for snow tubing passes. Checks will be allowed for visiting groups. There is also not a separate changing area so you should arrive dressed and ready for your tubing experience. www.littleonesmagazine.com | for local moms ... by local moms

Tips for Traveling to Disney World in the

+'& By Stacy Cacciatore

y family loves vacationing at Walt Disney World, but we donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t love the price or crowds that come with visiting during the peak season. At Walt Disney World, time is money, and you can not only save money and maximize your time by visiting during the off-season, but you can enjoy the special events that Disney schedules during their slower time of year. Below are some of the tips Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve learned by traveling during the off-season.

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The absolute best times to visit Walt Disney World include:

January Through Mid-February January is a lovely time of year to visit because the holiday decorations are still there, but the crowds aren’t. For four years in a row we have visited Walt Disney World in January. With the exception of New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day and Presidents Day, this time of year enjoys low crowds. January is the coolest month of the year with daily highs in the 70s and lows in the 40s. Events If you’re a runner, you will love the annual Walt Disney World Marathon weekend, held the second weekend in January. You can choose between the Family Fun Run 5K, 10K, Half Marathon, Full Marathon, Goofy Challenge (Half Marathon and Full Marathon) or the Dopey Challenge (5K, 10K, Half Marathon and Full Marathon). Deals Historically, Disney has offered roomonly discounts this time of year, usually at 30 percent off the rack rate.

hurricanes. The average high is 89 and the average low is 72. Events Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party is held annually in September and October at Magic Kingdom. Beginning at 7 p.m. the park closes to all, except guests who purchased admission to this specially-ticketed event. Guests can don their favorite costumes and mingle with Disney villains who typically aren’t at the park, such as Jafar, Queen of Hearts and Maleficent. The party goes until midnight with dance parties, trick or treating, Mickey’s Boo To You Halloween Parade and Happy HalloWishes. Deals The “Free Dining” package is typically offered during this time of year. This package is an option for guests who are booking a vacation at a Walt Disney World Resort with Magic Your Way Disney tickets. This inclusive package allows guests to enjoy free dining for each night of their stay for each guest in the package. There are several packages available, so visit the Walt Disney World website for the details.

Late November to Early December Late August to September Visiting in September, specifically the week after Labor Day, is one of the best times of year to visit. As children go back to school, the crowds thin at the parks. Beginning in late August, the crowd levels drop. My family visited over Labor Day weekend for six years in a row because of the beautiful weather, low crowds and Mickey’s Not-So-Scary Halloween Party. Note: Heat and humidity are pervasive in September and there is the threat of

The holidays are a magical time to visit Walt Disney World. One can make an entire (free) vacation by simply enjoying the beautiful decorations at the Walt Disney World resorts, including the life-sized Gingerbread House at the Grand Floridian Resort and Spa, the giant, edible carousel at the Boardwalk Resort and the rustic Christmas decorations at Wilderness Lodge. The crowds are low after Thanksgiving leading up to the two weeks prior to Christmas. However, the

last two weeks of the year and New Year’s Day are the most crowded time of year, so timing is critical. The weather in November and December is mild, with an average high 78 and an average low of 57. Events Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party is a fun celebration for all ages. Just like Mickey’s Not So Scary Halloween Party, this is a separately ticketed event that is held on select nights in November and December. Guests can enjoy spectacular lights on Cinderella Castle, Jingle Cruise, character meetand-greets, complimentary cookies and hot cocoa and a special viewing of Holiday Wishes. Even if you don’t buy a ticket to Mickey’s Very Merry Christmas Party, you can still enjoy the “snow” on Main Street at Magic Kingdom and the Osborne Family Spectacle of Dancing Lights at Hollywood Studios. Deals Disney has been known to extend “Free Dining” through November and December. There are also typically room-only discounts during this value season. There is no more important factor when planning your Disney vacation than when you go. With these tips for traveling to Walt Disney World during the off-season, you can save time, money and stress, so you can craft a magical family vacation that will create memories to last a lifetime. Stacy Cacciatore is the mother of two children, ages 12 and 8, and a freelance writer specializing in health, fitness and parenting. Visit her at http://fiveadaythefunway.com.

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carolina

Abraham Carbajal

Photo by Genise Sol贸rzano

Leonard Joseph Garlins Jr

Photo by Leonard Garlins

Malea Grace Coxton

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Cambria Noelle

Photo by Elaina Hinshaw Photography

Conner Hallback

Photo by Brady Wade Photography Caragan Jolie

Photo by Elaina Hinshaw Photography

Cameron Hallback

Photo by Brady Wade Photography Carson McQueen Malachi Rivera

Photo by Terence Rivera 38

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Photo by Holly Plummer Photography

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hank k you u to our rreaders eaders and advertisers adv d ertiserss for for sharing your holiday oliday traditions with us! H Here’ erre’s to holding olding on to thosee special momen moments ts and cr creating reating ng ne new w traditions with ith friends and d family!

“My grandmotherr hand stitched matching ma tching ‘stockin ‘stockings’ ngs’ for all our family members. Sequined ned snowmen snowmen with top hats. ha ts. As kids, these thesse ‘stockings’ were always al ways the first thing hing we ran to on Christmas morning. ng. Before she passed matching aaway, wayy, myy ggrandmother mother made ma tchingg stockings for MY 3 kids. The excitement morning of Christmas mor ning for my kids has this common thread, ead, crafted by my grandmother’s grandmother’s love.” ve.” David David J. Henderson on Executive Director, Director orr, LearningRx

and Happy Holidays

“One of my favorite favoriite holiday memories... When we were children, chhildren, my family always al ways opened presents resents on Christmas (Secretly,, I think Eve (Secretly Eve. thhink my parents simply didn’t want to gett up early on Christmas morning!) So, on Christmas Eve night, all four of us kids plus my parents would pile into thee car to go look aatt the Christmas lights iinn the neighborhood. As was tradition, my mother would suddenly last back out aatt the la ast minute cclaiming laiming thatt she needed to cclean tha lean up the dinner dishes or finish baking aking cookies. Upon our return, we would woould find that that Santa had miraculously arrived early with our gifts There wouldd be plenty of evidence gifts. -- boot prints on the fireplace hearth, “reindeer” prints prinnts in the snow snow on the ck steps andd cookies and milk back nsumed. We We laugh about it still consumed. inued the tradition of andd even continued iving aroundd to see the lights on driving hristmas Evee as we got older Christmas older.. The nly differenc e? Mom came along only difference? or the ride.” for Bev Seitz, Carolina Voices’ Voicces’ Associa te Associate Executive Director rector

“Christmas cookies c headline our family tradition. adition. Using my Grandmother’ er’s recipe, we invite Grandmother’s friends and family to ha ve a have decora ting contest. c Winner gets a decorating prize and ever veryone has has fun!” everyone Sarah TTurner urner urneer

From F ro om the en entire tire V Venture enture M Magazines agazinees Staff Staff Standing left to right: TTrish, rish, Kerrie, Carole, Cindy, Cindy, Lori, Karsen Seated Sea ted left to right: Beth, Sharon, Taylor, Taylor, Renee Special thanks to Chris Boutin aatt C Christmas in the Villa Village, ge, Cornelius for for providing providding the venue for for our photo shoot. Photo bbyy Glen Glenn nn Roberson, Glenn Roberson Photog Photography. raphy.

“I grew up in i Upper U per Mi Michigan, hi h where winters are prettyy serious. I have have ver veryy fond memories off my dad building an ice ska ting rink inn our backy ard ever skating backyard everyy Christmas season. n. We We always always invited our rela tives over for a ska ting party on New relatives skating YYear’s ear’s Eve.” Lauren Grecus

“It was the most beautiful thing my 6-year -old eyes e had ever seen - a tall, 6-year-old full, live Chr ristmas tree covered with Christmas fluffy white sno w and lights. Aunt snow Elizabeth put ut it up for me, and said she didn’t kno w why God didn’t give her know children. I said s He knew she had to take care of me. She always always did.” Dr.r. Donna Hinkle Dr H PickyParents.net PickyP Parents.net arentts.net

“Our family makes a trip to McAdenville, usually the week before Christmas. I chocolate make Christmas tmas cookies and hot chocola te that enjoy tha at we enjo oy in the car while looking att the lights. We We stop at at Cracker Barrel for breakfast forr dinner on the way home.” Kay Carwilee

“When my brothers and I were little, show we would put ut on a Christmas Eve sho w for our parents. ents. Complete with singing, instruments, s, poems, etc! They must have haave greatt because been grea b they still ask us for a show now!” sho w even though we’re in our 30s no w!” Davenport Cori Merrickk Da venport

“One of thee most memorable traditions I have ha ve of the Christmas season is making cookies withh my grandma Bush. This was thatt my dad started when he something tha boyy then was a bo t carried over when my mom and hee were just married. When I was old enough ough I carried on the tradition her.. We with her We made homemade sugar cookies withh colored buttered frosting. Wee would make over a 100 of them and W give them too our family business to pass customers out to custo omers along with friends. Till Till this day even en after my grandma passed have carrying my dad andd I ha ve been carr ying on the everyy Christmas. I can’t cookie making king ever wait until my m daughter is a little older My grandma Bush is to help us bake. b down heaven looking do w from hea wn ven smiling aatt us everyy time tthe cookies are made and ever frosted. Especially Esppecially the when the last one is done, thee cookie blob.” TTammy ammy Cameron meron

greatt “Spending the day using my grea grandmother’s grandmother’ er’s rolling pin, bowls, bowls, and cookie molds ds to make her recipes with my mom and nd my children. We We share memories of past holidays and lots of laughter while hile covering the kitchen and ourselves ves in flour and making new year.” memories too share next year .” Jennifer Mock, ock, MD Carmel OBGYN

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Keep an eye out for our February/March issue! ro area charlotte met reaching the il 2005 Februar y - Apr

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Nature and abundant fascinations come together to create a winter wonderland like no other this year at Daniel Stowe Botanical Garden. Our contemporary, yet elegant lighting display will brighten your holidays while our fire pit keeps you warm. And with the opening of Lost Hollow, our new childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s garden, Holidays at the Garden has become an even greater family tradition. Presenting Sponsor

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