Eastern Shore Parents Magazine January 2013 by KeepSharing

Without the University of South Alabama Medical Center, our son would not be with us today. It’s every parent’s nightmare. Our son, Brandon, riding home from school, was in a bad car wreck.

He was taken to the Trauma Center at USA Medical Center in critical condition, on life support and with little hope of survival.

Thankfully, the Trauma Center doctors and nurses never gave up. As Mobile’s only Level One

Trauma Center, they treat the most serious of injuries. They had the education, heart and faith to save our child’s life.

Today, Brandon is back in high school. Without the USA Medical Center, he would not be with us. We are forever grateful.

UNIVERSITY OF SOUTH ALABAMA

-Mike and Kelly Cooper Parents of Brandon Norwood, Mary G. Montgomery High School student Pictured from left, Emmie Lynn Cooper, Mike Cooper, Brandon Norwood, Kelly Cooper, Blake Wade

MEDICAL CENTER The highest level of care. www.usahealthsystem.com/usamc

Contents January 2013 Volume 5 Number 8

Features 40 Obesity in Children Learn how this problem continues to increase and how you can help your family stay healthy.

48 Choosing Childcare Get the facts, do your homework and trust your judgment as you search for the right preschool/daycare fit for your family.

51 2013 Childcare Directory Our listing of Eastern Shore childcare centers offers details to help you narrow down your search, begin personal visits and make a decision.

Columns

62 Live Your Lifeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Dream January can be a great time to set new goals and begin pursuing some of your biggest desires in life. Find new inspiration this New Year.

2 From One Parent to Another Lynn Knighton

4 Living With Children John Rosemond

On The Cover

12 Kids Health

Departments

by Dr. Robert L. Rux, M.D.

6 Bits and Pieces

38 Get This!

Paige Gardner Smith

14 School Bits

44 The FlyLady Marla Cilley

64 Family Calendar

46 Dave Says

72 Movie Reviews

Dave Ramsey

70 A Page in a Book Paige Gardner Smith

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Beau Cullen Washington (3) and Brock Conaway Washington (5), sons of Dominic and Leah Washington of Daphne. Grandparents are Francis and Tommie Conaway of Daphne, and Robert and the late Audrey Washington of Birmingham. Both Brock and Beau love spending time together playing with their trains.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

EasternShoreParents

The Eastern Shore’s Foremost Parenting Source

Eastern Shore Parents Magazine, is founded on the principle that parenting is an exciting, diverse, challenging, and significant, role in our community. Eastern Shore Parents Magazine is a community advocate for families and the parenting process.

Publisher Lynn Knighton lynn@easternshoreparents.com

Editor DeAnne Watson deanne@easternshoreparents.com

Associate Editor Kelly Watson kelly@easternshoreparents.com

Research Editor Karen Jones

Advertising Opportunities Lynn Knighton Leslie Hall

ads@easternshoreparents.com (251) 929-2099

Contributing Writers Marla Cilley Dave Ramsey Michele Ranard, M.Ed. John Rosemond Dr. Robert L. Rux, M.D. Heidi Luedtke Smith Paige Gardner Smith Katie White, CPNP

Cover Photography Erin Creel www.erincreelphotography.com

President

Jason Watson jason@easternshoreparents.com

Visit us online at www.easternshoreparents.com Eastern Shore Parents magazine is published monthly by KeepSharing, LLC. Mailing address: P.O. Box 374, Montrose, Alabama, 36559. The phone number for voice and fax is (251) 929-2099. Eastern Shore Parents is copyrighted 2013 by KeepSharing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is prohibited. Opinions expressed in Eastern Shore Parents magazine are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the view of the owners, nor do they constitute an endorsement of products and services herein.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

From One Parent to Another... Happy New Year! After the hustle and bustle of the holidays it is nice to take the week after Christmas to just enjoy time with family without the stress and worry of the “to do” list. My family spent time after Christmas just hanging out and working on projects around the house to start the New Year off fresh. After all, isn’t that what the New Year is all about? Making positive changes? I love the headline of one of my advertiser’s ads this month, “Who Do You Want to Be in 2013?” It’s a great reflective question. The other night I began making a list of what I would like my day to day life to look like. I listed things like more devotional time, more date nights with my husband, healthier eating habits, more exercise... pretty typical stuff, especially the fitness aspect. So many people struggle with weight issues that I am sure it is probably the number one New Year’s resolution. During a recent conversation with my pediatrician I asked questions about correct portion sizes and calorie intake for kids because I want to teach mine a healthier lifestyle than I had growing up. If you too are wanting to teach your kids to have a healthy lifestyle, turn to page 40 and read Obesity in Children, by Katie White. She is a nurse practitioner who specializes in childhood obesity and has some important tips for your family. I think everyone has a project or goal they would like to accomplish, but in the crazy world of parenting, working, cleaning, homework, and packing lunches we feel like there is just not enough time in the day. We put our dreams on the back burner telling ourselves, “Maybe when the kids get older.” If this sounds like you, I encourage you to read this month’s article, Live Your Life’s Dream, by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D. She really has some good advice on why you should not put your dreams off any longer. Speaking of change, many families will begin looking into preschools and daycares this month as January through March are when many preschools and Mother’s Morning Out programs begin Fall registration. If you are one of those families, you will definitely want to read Choosing Childcare, by Michele Ranard, M.Ed. This decision can be overwhelming, so becoming an informed parent is extremely important. Whether you are looking for full-time childcare, a preschool program or a Mother’s Day Out program, we have included a complete directory to help you in your search. I will reiterate some of the advice given in the article...trust your gut and do not wait until six weeks before you need childcare to start looking. Many centers have waiting lists and if you start the search the day you realize you will need childcare, the more options you will have. Also, many registrations are first come first serve so if registration begins on a Wednesday at 8 am, don’t wait until Thursday. Go the first day and go at the time requested. Visit the centers before registration time to make sure you have everything you need to secure your spot. Don’t forget to check out this month’s Family Calendar for great events. You can also find the Mardi Gras calendar in our Bits and Pieces section! May God bless you and Happy New Year!

Lynn

Lynn Knighton, Publisher

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Living With Children

By John Rosemond

Manipulative Child Needs to Learn Gratitude Q: My 12-year-old

grandson has become obsessed with things he wants, including a cell phone (the most expensive, mind you), an iPad, and expensive designer jeans. He begs, throws tantrums, pouts, refuses to speak to his parents, and the like. When told not to say another word, he leaves them notes, draws pictures, or comes to us or the other grandparents. These obsessions and his very manipulative behavior are a mystery because he’s never been given an excess of material things. My daughter and her husband have addressed this with common-sense talk about greed, excess, obsessions, and self-control. What should we do to solve this problem?

A: First, I feel obsessively compelled

to point out that talking to a 12-year-old about greed, excess, obsessions, and selfcontrol is not an example of “commonsense talk.” These are not concepts that the average 12-year-old understands. An example of “common-sense talk” would be as follows: “We are not going to buy

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

that for you, ever, no matter what you say or do. When you are older and are earning your own money, you can buy it for yourself.” You would probably tell me that his parents have told him words to that effect and he continues to obsess and pester and pout and throw tantrums. Pardon me for speculating, but I have to believe that his parents have been less than unequivocal. My guess is they’ve occasionally (perhaps rarely) told him “No” in no uncertain terms, but then at other times they go on and on about greed, excess, and so on, trying to persuade him to accept their decision. If that’s the case, then allow me to point out that your grandson (like all children) perceives persuasion as a weakness. He can simply refuse to be persuaded and even though he doesn’t get what he wants, he’s “won” that round. Even though obsessive thinking is often indicative of a psychological problem, I think you’re describing a power struggle. Your grandson’s parents need to stop participating. They need to make themselves perfectly clear, and accomplishing that is going to require some “drastic” measures on their part. Drastic Measures: When he’s at school, his parents remove anything and everything from his room that isn’t

completely necessary, including favorite but unnecessary clothing. When he comes home from school, they sit down with him and inform him that he’s going to live that way until his inappropriate requests, tantrums, pouting, and the like have completely stopped for a continuous period of two weeks and that until that happens, he is also going to bed at 7:00. This “conversation” should last no more than two minutes, during which they should stick to the following facts: (1) Your requests are inappropriate (I recommend that they present him with a list of those requests). (2) We’re not going to buy you those things. (3) Because you obviously don’t appreciate the things you already have, you are going to live without them until your inappropriate requests have stopped. If, during the next two weeks, a request occurs, or displays any of the manipulative, self-dramatic behaviors you listed, the two weeks begins anew. He should have his stuff back within six weeks. Those six weeks will be some of the most memorable weeks of his life. That is, after all, the point. Family psychologist John Rosemond answers parents’ questions on his website at www.rosemond.com.

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bits & pieces Healthy Families Start with a Healthy Kitchen

Kids in the Kitchen teaches children and their families about healthy foods, physical activity and the importance of eating healthy. Kids in the Kitchen will be a 4-week program which will meet every Thursday from 5:30-6:30 p.m. The cost will be $10 per family of 4 and $2 for each additional family member. The program will date from January 17th to February 7th. Stop by or call the Bounds Family YMCA for more information. 8051 Whispering Pines RD. Daphne, AL. 36526. 251.626.0888. www.ysal.org.

Two Cool Cats Highlight Alabama in New Children’s Book

Fairhope and Mobile Bay are the starting point for a fun-filled journey across the south half of Alabama, which is chronicled in the recently released children’s book The Alabama Adventures of Walter & Wimbly: two marmalade cats on a mission by Jennifer Kornegay. The story, based on two real cats, follows best friends and next-door neighbors Walter and Wimbly on their mission to find each other again after Walter’s family moves to Fairhope. A visit with a shrimper by the bay gets Walter started on his trip with a belly full of shrimp, while Wimbly sneaks a ride to historic Union Station in Montgomery to hop a train headed south. As they travel toward each other, both orange cats stop at several iconic Alabama landmarks along the way, including a pecan shop in Fort Deposit, a turkey restaurant in Greenville, the courthouse in Monroeville and more. Kids are drawn into the tale and stay engaged thanks to a descriptive writing style and the book’s whimsical colored-pencil illustrations created by Gadsden, Ala., artist and the author’s mother, Madelon Stewart. The book is available at Page and Palette, 32 South Section Street, Fairhope, AL.

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Kids Marathon Program Partners with First Light Marathon

LifeSouth Community Blood Centers is proud to partner with the BankTrust First Light Marathon by organizing The Five Points of Life Kids Marathon program. Children in grades K-8th who participate in the program will run a total of 25 miles in the weeks leading up to the BankTrust First Light Marathon. The last 1.2 miles will be completed on January 13 at 2 p.m., at the Kids Marathon. Each child will receive a t-shirt and finisher's medal. For more information, visit www.firstlightmarathon.com and click on the kids marathon link. Also, the 12th Annual BankTrust First Light Marathon will take place on Sunday January 13, 2013. This full marathon (26.2 mile), half marathon (13.1 mile) and 5 person relay begins at 7:30 a.m. at Government and Claiborne Streets. The 1.2 mile fun run begins at the corner of Conception and St. Francis Street and will start at 2:00 p.m. This annual event is coordinated by and benefits L’Arche Mobile, which is a Christian Community that shares life with people with an intellectual disability. The web site is www.firstlightmarathon. com or contact Marty O’Malley 251-438-2094, www.larchemobile.org.

Mardi Gras Parade, Spectronics Fireworks Display, Pep Rallies & Street Party

Greer’s/AL.com /Press-Register will be hosting a Mardi Gras parade in the streets of downtown Mobile on January 5th starting at 6:30 p.m. for the GoDaddy.com Bowl. Sixteen Mardi Gras societies will be represented with floats and throws for the crowd. Several local high school marching bands will join the parade, as well as the bands and cheerleaders from each participating Bowl team. A huge crowd is expected to pack the streets of downtown Mobile for this early rendition of the Mardi Gras season. Immediately following the Mardi Gras parade, a fireworks display over the Mobile River will highlight the festivities and set the tone for the official pre-game pep rallies and street party. Following the Spectronics fireworks display, the party will move to Water Street and South Plaza for team pep rallies. Following the teams pep rallies, the party will continue with live music and refreshments. The fourteenth annual GoDaddy.com Bowl will be played Sunday, January 6, at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile. The game will feature teams from the Mid-American Conference and the Sun Belt Conference and will be televised nationally at 9 p.m. (ET)/8 p.m. (CT) on ESPN. To learn more about the 2013 GoDaddy.com Bowl and Bowl Week Events, visit www.GoDaddybowl.com or call 251-635-0011. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, Kohl’s Department Store Renew Kohl’s Infant Safe Sleep Program

Kohl’s Department Store, has announced a grant of $106,755 to USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital to renew and expand a safe sleeping program for infants. The program is called KISS, which stands for Kohl’s Infant Safe Sleep. The funds are used to purchase educational materials for parents and other caregivers, promote infant safe sleeping habits in the community and provide free cribs to qualifying families. The Kohl’s Cribs for Kids initiative has distributed more than 400 Pack ‘n Play portable cribs to qualifying Mobile County families. The cribs can play a key role in reducing deaths due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome, or SIDS, and unsafe sleep. USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital, through MOM Care – Mobile’s Medicaid Maternity Program – provides education and training for qualifying families on proper sleep position and sleep environment for the baby. When a qualifying family completes the program, they receive a free Pack ‘n Play. The cribs are portable and can be taken wherever the baby receives care. The KISS program also emphasizes education, as USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital nurses go out into the community to teach parents and caregivers safe sleeping habits for infants. More than 1,000 caregivers received training last year from Children’s & Women’s personnel through the KISS program. To schedule a KISS visit, or for more information about Kohl’s Cribs for Kids, please call USA Children’s & Women’s Hospital at 415-1000 or visit www.usahealthsystem.com/usacwh, then click on Education and look for the KISS link. Pictured, Tony Bondora, coordinator for the Alabama Baby Coalition, discusses safe sleeping habits for babies.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

bits & pieces Literary Contests and Awards for 9th-12th Grade Students

The Alabama Writer's Forum recognizes young writers, grades 9-12, and their teachers and schools each year for their work in creative nonfiction, drama, fiction, and poetry. The Literary Arts Awards, including the Literary Magazine Competition, are open to Alabama high school students in grades 9-12, and scholarships are available to seniors in Alabama high schools. Cash awards will be given, and official announcement of all awards will be made at the Literary Arts Award reception at the State Capitol in Montgomery. Teachers with winning students will be notified by e-mail prior to the Awards. Writers in the fields of creative nonfiction, drama, fiction, and poetry will choose the winning entries. For more information on the guidelines and entry form, please visit www.writersforum.org/ programs/competition.html.

Ju m D iPa pr wa Se

Santa Visits Orange Beach Public Library

Santa Claus took time off from his very busy schedule on December 11 to visit story time at the Orange Beach Public Library. As he sat in the rocking chair each child took their turn sitting on his lap and telling him their Christmas wishes. Each child also had a picture taken with Santa. Some children even went back to talk to Santa multiple times! The children and their families snacked and listened to Christmas music as they worked on Christmas projects. The projects included assembling their own small baggies of Reindeer food, making a tree ornament and Christmas coloring sheets. Noah, Taylor and Carsyn Berry look as if they came straight from the North Pole with Santa!

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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The Family Center Opens in Daphne

The Exchange Club Family Center is now open in Daphne at 27365 Pollard Road (near the YMCA). Quenching the Father Thirst, a new curriculum from The National Center for Fathering, will be taught in a class held Mondays from 5:30-7:30 p.m. This new free course underscores why dads are important, and is taught over 12 evenings. Free supper, giftcards upon completion and transportation help to eligible fathers is provided. The course is ongoing and fathers can join at any time (after paperwork completion.) For more information and to schedule an advance intake, call 251-6261610. Childcare is available for free with a 24-hr. advance reservation. The Fatherhood Program provides fathering skills training, education and employment support and referral and other as-needed services. It is part of a national effort to build the relationships of fathers and children. Other fatherhood services, such as cooperative parenting and stress/anger management training, are coming soon to Daphne. For more information visit Facebook.com/ FatherhoodProgramMobile or familycentermobile.org. The Responsible Fatherhood Program is operated at The Family Center and is made possible through the Childrenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Trust Fund, Grant #90FK0042-01-00, Office of Family Assistance, United States Department of Health & Human Services, Administration of Children & Families. Available to all eligible persons regardless of race, gender, age, disability or religion.

Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore Awards Grants to Local Schools

Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore, Alabama was able to award over $2,000 in grant money to several schools on the Eastern Shore. Erin Norris, Kindergarten teacher at Daphne Elementary School received a $450 grant for her project, "iGrow, iLearn with iPad". Dana Bottoms, Principal at W.J. Carol Intermediate School received $450 for her project, "Covering Technology". Elizabeth Thorjusen of Fairhope Intermediate School was awarded a $250 grant for "The Breakfast Club" project (pictured). Charlotte Norris, Second Grade teacher at Fairhope Elementary School and Dianna Wolchina, Counselor at Fairhope Elementary School were also each awarded $450 to purchase iPads for classroom instruction. JAES is proud to support out local schools and provide resources that will allow these teachers to make a difference in the lives of children.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

bits & pieces Junior Auxiliary Awards Crown of Character to Fairhope 5th Graders

These 5th Graders at Fairhope Intermediate have been awarded the Crown of Character award by the Junior Auxiliary of the Eastern Shore, for the months of October & November. Congratulations! Back Row: Will McLean, Madeline Byrne, Ashleigh Arnold, Madeline Myrick, Emily Adams, Jennifer Williams, Cole Gregorius; Front Row: Mrs. Broughton, Karalyne Lea, Mary Kathleen Hughes, Anna Beth Whitehurst, Kyndall Nelms, Sydney Boothe, Lilly Hollon, Beth Puckett (JAES). Thank you to our gold level sponsors: Bay Pediatric, Chick-fil-A, Coastal Neurological Institute, Restoration Health, Terry Thompson & Thomas Hospital.

SFEEF’s Casino Night to Benefit Local Schools

SFEEF Casino Night will be held at the Daphne Civic Center on Saturday, January 12th from 7:30-11:30 p.m. There will be casino tables with celebrity dealers, food, dj and dancing, and a live and silent auction. Tickets are $50 per person in advance (available at Spanish Fort schools or by calling 401-7333), or $60 at the door. Proceeds benefit Spanish Fort Educational Enrichment Foundation and local schools.

Feed an alligator! Call for details.

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Mardi Gras Schedule 2013 • Saturday, January 12 2 p.m. - Krewe de la Dauphine (Dauphin Island) • Saturday, January 19 1 p.m. - Island Mystics (Dauphin Island) • Friday, January 25 6:30 p.m. - Conde Cavaliers (Mobile, Rte A) • Saturday, January 26 (Senior Bowl) 2 p.m. - Order of the Rolling River (DIP) Noon - Bayport Parading Society (Mobile, Rte A) 7 p.m. - Pharaohs (Mobile, Rte A) 7:30 p.m. - Conde Explorers (Mobile, Rte A) • Thursday, January 31 6:30 p.m. - Order of Polka Dots (Mobile, Rte A) • Friday, February 1 6:30 p.m. - Order of Inca (Mobile, Rte A) 6:45 p.m. - Apollo's Mystic Ladies (Daphne) • Saturday, February 2 2 p.m. - Mobile Mystics (Mobile, Rte A) 2:30 p.m. - Mystic Mutts of Revelry (Fairhope) 2:30 p.m. - Mobile Mystical Revelers (Mobile, Rte A) 6:30 p.m. - Maids of Mirth (Mobile, Rte A) 6:45 p.m. - Knights of Ecor Rouge (Fairhope) 7 p.m. - Butterfly Maidens (Mobile, Rte A) 7:30 p.m. - Krewe of Marry Mates (Mobile, Rte A) • Sunday, February 3 (Super Bowl Sunday) 6:30 p.m. - Neptune's Daughters (Mobile, Rte A)

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7 p.m. - Order of Isis (Mobile, Rte A) • Monday, February 4 6:30 p.m. - Order of Venus (Mobile, Rte A) • Tuesday, February 5 6:30 p.m. - Order of LaShe's (Mobile, Rte A) • Thursday, February 7 6:30 p.m. - Mystic Stripers (Mobile, Rte A) • Friday, February 8 6:30 p.m. - Crewe of Columbus (Mobile, Rte A) 6:30 p.m. - Mystical Order of Mirams (Orange Bch) 6:45 p.m. - Maids of Jubilee (Fairhope) 6:45 p.m. - Mystic Order of Persephone (Daphne) • Saturday, February 9 Noon - Floral Parade, Knights of Mobile, Mobile Mystical Ladies, Order of Angels (Mobile, Rte A) Noon - Krewe of Goats Parade (Prichard) Noon - Mystic Revelers (Bay Minette) 2 p.m. - Krewe of Mullet Mates (Mullet Point) 5:30 p.m. - Mystics of Pleasure (Orange Beach) 6 p.m. - Mystics of Time (Mobile, Rte A) 6:45 p.m. - Shadow Barons (Daphne) • Sunday, February 10 (Joe Cain Day) 2:29 p.m. - Loyal Order of the Firetruck (Daphne) 2:30 p.m. - Joe Cain Procession (Mobile, Rte A) 5 p.m. - Le Krewe de Bienville (Mobile, Rte A) • Monday, February 11 (Lundi Gras) 11:00 a.m. - Arrival of King Felix III (at foot of Government Street)

Noon - King Felix III and Floral parades (Mobile, Rte A) Noon - Prichard Mardi Gras Association Parade (Prichard) 3 p.m. - MLK Business and Civic Organization (Mobile, Rte D) 3:30 p.m. - MLK Monday Mystics (Mobile, Rte D) 4 p.m. - Northside Merchants (Mobile, Rte D) 6:30 p.m. - Infant Mystics (Mobile, Rte A) 6:45 p.m. - Order of Mystic Magnolias (Fairhope) • Tuesday, February 12 (Fat Tuesday) 10 a.m. - Gulf Shores Mardi Gras Association (Gulf Shores) 10:30 a.m. - Order of Athena (Mobile, Rte A) 12:30 p.m. - Knights of Revelry (Mobile, Rte A) 1:00 p.m. - King Felix Parade 1:30 p.m. - Comic Cowboys (Mobile, Rte A) 2 p.m. - Orange Beach Parade (Orange Beach) 2 p.m. - MAMGA Mammoth Parade (Mobile, Rte B) 6 p.m. - Order of Myths (Mobile, Rte C)

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Kids Heal h

Sponsored by Magnolia Springs Pediatrics

Ear Infections

One of the most common problems in the pediatric world is ear infections. Everybody has had at least one in their life and everybody has taken the “pink medicine” to get it better. But times have changed and the approach to ear infection management has changed as well. Today, we will talk about why kids get ear infections, signs and symptoms of a current infection, treatment options (even when not to treat!), and the dreaded need for “tubes.” So first, why does my baby always get ear infections and other kids rarely have them? Well, let’s think about a few things. First, did you or your spouse have ear infections or other sinus problems as a child or adult? Family history is a good predictor of increased ear infections mainly because of the genes you pass on to your child that determine the anatomical structure of their ears. Our ears are a complex series of bones, nerves and drainage tubes that are responsible for hearing. If the drainage tubes are small, tortuous, or obstructed, then ear infections can occur. Now the obstruction can be from several things. Snot or congestion from allergies, viruses, or bacterial infections can be a culprit as well as enlarged tonsils. Once the drainage tubes are blocked, then the fluid behind the ear drum can’t drain, and infection can set in. So, now we know why, but how do I know if my child has an ear infection? First, a child or infant pulling on their ears without any other signs or symptoms is rarely an ear

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

infection. That symptom by itself usually represents teething or a sleepy habit or just discovering one’s ears! So, what signs are concerning for an ear infection? Well, you have to look for direct and indirect signs. They usually have congestion for several days and sometimes fever is found as well. But oftentimes, you see crankiness, waking up frequently at night, decreased feeding, maybe vomiting, and/or just an overall change in temperament in your child. So, what now? My baby has an ear infection and has kept me up all night. Well, most infants and young children need to be treated with antibiotics and oftentimes need special drops for pain management until the infection can be resolved. Now, the issue over the last twenty years or so has been an overuse of the “pink medicine” or amoxicillin. While still a great medicine, the treatment plan has changed. Higher doses and other classes of antibiotics are also used to rid the ears of infection and hopefully not have continued resistance by the bacteria to the antibiotics. But what about older kids? And what about kids who don’t have symptoms? Oftentimes, these children can be observed off antibiotics for several days to see if any new symptoms arise or if the child improves on their own. These decisions can be discussed with your healthcare provider. So now you have an infection, but it won’t go away. Your child took every dose of medicine as prescribed and it’s still there! Well, as per above, sometimes your anatomy

or continued obstruction from congestion prevents complete clearance. Also, sometimes the bacteria that are causing the infection have some resistance to the antibiotic and need another one. So, what now? My child continues to have ear infections and now I’m worried about what this is doing to my child and what about hearing loss? These are valid concerns that need to be addressed with your healthcare provider; but overall, a few ear infections do not indicate a need for “tubes.” But, infections that are unable to be cleared, a child that has abnormal hearing, or multiple infections over a period of months might indicate the need for an evaluation by a specialist. Remember, just because you see a specialist doesn’t mean you have to get tubes! Ear infections are an unfortunate part of growing up, but you now you are armed with info. As always, consult aap.org and talk with your doctor! Robert L. Rux, M.D. is a Board Certified Pediatrician at Magnolia Springs Pediatrics. Originally from Mobile, he attended medical school at The University of Alabama School of Medicine (UAB) and completed residency at The Children’s Hospital of Alabama (UAB). He is married to Jaime and has three children, Adler, Walker and Mary McAtee.

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Robertsdale Students Ride in Style

Robertsdale Elementary fifth and sixth grade students were able to ride in style to Mellow Mushroom in Foley on November 1st. These students were the top cookie dough sellers for their class in a fundraiser and earned a limo ride and lunch. Shown in the picture are (l to r) Donya Macias, Jonelyn Stewart, Grace McKee, Jacob Young, Monica Alvarez, Lauren Burgett, Cassie Miller, Rachel Russell, Anna Stokes, Roxy Wallace, and Emma Spears.

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Bayshore Kindergarten Class Celebrates Bugs

Mrs. AnneFrost Kennedy’s kindergarten class from Bayshore Christian School celebrated “Bug Day” on November 2. Each child dressed up as their favorite bug and gave a presentation. Pictured with Mrs. AnneFrost Kennedy: (left to right) Front Row: Landen Odom, Jazlyn Romero, Brooklyn Norris, Ahna Rogers, Londyn Norris and Ayla Jones. Back Row: Brooks Jones, Eli Livingston, Joel Douglas Chandler, Cyrus Dorsey and Toby Edmiston.

Mayor and City Council Visit Gulf Shores Elementary School

Gulf Shores Elementary School hosted a breakfast and Open House for the Gulf Shores City Council recently to express their gratitude for the generous funding the city provided for the implementation of the Digital Renaissance at GSES. Parents and community members were also invited to come see first-hand students utilizing the technology that is transforming education right here in Gulf Shores. Pictured back row l to r: Gulf Shores City Council member Steve Jones, Mayor Robert Craft, City Council member Carolyn Doughty and City Council member Dr. Jason Dyken; Front row l to r: GSES fifth grade students Douglas Sanders and Ryder Bullen with their personal MacBooks.

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Spanish Fort Varsity Cheerleaders Lead Pep Rally

The Spanish Fort Varsity Cheerleaders led the crowd in an amazing pep rally! Students were getting ready for our first playoff game! Pictured from Left to Right - First row: Regan Sims, Erica Cockrell, Lauren Berry, Caroline Beasley, Kathleen Dismukes, Reilly Sharp Back row: Catherine Melton, Anna Holliman, Caroline Whaley, Ashley Williams. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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Rockwell Elementary Students Learn About the 70’s

Rockwell Elementary students were involved in a three-week Discipline Based Arts Education (DBAE) unit, focusing on events from America’s 1970’s. At the heart of activities are visual arts, music, theatre, and dance concepts. The arts highlight events and life from this time period in our nation’s history. Students were able to “dress-up” in 70’s attire to conclude the unit!

Garden Club Donates to Orange Beach Elementary

Orange Beach Garden Club donated $200 to the Orange Beach Elementary School Garden Club. Their donation will be used for the activities of the OBES Garden Club such as purchasing seeds, bulbs, soil and supplies. Over 70 students have signed up to participate on the second Wednesday of every month, Sept.-May. An average of 50 students attend and maintain a seasonal garden, rose garden, butterfly garden and a new herb garden by the cafeteria. Thank you to the Orange Beach Garden Club for their support! Pictured are Principal Lori Brocato, OBES Garden Club Sponsor Gayle Cahn, Orange Beach Garden Club President Elaine Smith.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

The Golden King Visits Fairhope Middle School

Fairhope Middle School students in Mrs. Kim Earley’s 8th grade G/T World History classes recently completed their study of ancient Egypt. The study culminated in the presentation of creative projects designed by the students. Pictured, with their full size sarcophagus of King Tut, are Sawyer Connick (left) and Cody Dodd (right). They built the sarcophagus from wood, clay and paint. 8th grade social studies covers world history from the Paleolithic Times to the Middle Ages.

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Christ the King Catholic School Prays the Rosary for the Families in Connecticut School Shooting

Christ the King Catholic School students, from left, Madeline May, Gabe Viator, Kyler Alexander and fourth grade teacher, Mrs. Ellen Heebe, pray the rosary for the families of the Connecticut tragedy at Christ the King Catholic Church.

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Bayside Academy Homecoming Court

Bayside Academy held its Homecoming on October 19. Alona Melendez was crowned Homecoming queen. The following girls comprised the Homecoming court: 9th grade maid – Madison Taylor; 10th grade maid – Ellie Northcutt; 11th grade maids – Haley Heebe and Bowen Spottswood; 12th grade maids – Grace Bacon, Emory Builta, Kaki Citrin, Gabby Deshotel, Cullan Gibbons, Courtney Harrell, Iris Harrison, Philipe Herndon, Haileigh Hughes, Jasmine Lee, Emily Mace, Nicole Marshall, Bailey Mason, Mary Claire Moorehead, Laura Nelson, Kathleen Passmore, Courtney Pilot, Molly Pinnix, Virginia Pittman, Anna Ryan, Sophie Stebner, Gabbie Tarabein, DJ Terrell, Townsend Vance, Dorothy Walton, and Alli Wolfe. Pictured, Top to bottom, right to left: Laura Nelson, Kathleen Passmore, Virginia Pittman, Molly Pinix, Emily Mace, Kaki Citrin, Jasmine Lee, Dorothy Walton, Mary Claire Moorhead, Anna Ryan, Iris Harrison, Courtney Pilot, Grace Bacon, Gabby Deshotel, Philipe Herndon, Sophie Stebner, Gabbie Tarabein, Ellie Northcutt, Haley Heebe, Alona Melendez, Bowen Spottswood, and Madison Taylor.

Thanksgiving Fun at Daphne Elementary

Mrs. Tina Davis' class enjoyed their annual Thanksgiving Feast. Pictured are Emma Melton and her mom are enjoying the feast together!

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Christ the King Catholic School Collects Toys for Catholic Social Services

Christ the King Catholic School student council members from left, Marlee Davis, Anna Lee McDuff, Matt Grimm, Ben Morgan, Ashley Thomas, Peyton Mahoney and Genevieve Corte, have their hands full of toys as they loaded them into a truck to be delivered to Catholic Social Services on Wednesday, Dec. 12. Students at CKCS collected the toys this month for their December outreach.

Daphne East Spelling Bee Winners

Congratulations to Alexis Littekin who won 1st place in our school spelling bee! She will represent DPEE at the county bee. Also, congratulations to Jack Wilson who is runner-up! They are pictured here with Daphne East Principal, Mark Doherty, and Assistant Principal, Pat Malisham.

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McGill-Toolen Girls Swim and Dive Team Win State Championship, Boys are Runners-up

Congratulations to our swim and dive teams! The girls won the State Title with 174 points. Our 200 Medley Relay took 2nd place with Seniors Sarah El-Hamaki and Erica Dekle, sophomore Ellis Glass and 8th grader Margaret Carey. Senior Heather McDonald placed 3rd in 1 meter dive. Our Boys were the runner-ups with 237 points. Senior Will Glass broke 2 state records in the 100 Fly and 100 Backstroke. The team of seniors Will Glass, Will Anderson and sophomores Jackson Algiers and Russell Noletto broke the record in the 200 Medley Relay and our 400 Free Relay team won with seniors Glass, Anderson, sophomore Noletto and 8th grader Patrick Dunne. Other finalists include Will Anderson, 3rd in the 200 Back and 2nd in the 200 Fly and Russell Noletto with 3rd in the 500 Free.

Robertsdale Elementary Holds Annual “Big Race”

Students at Robertsdale Elementary School recently participated in the “Big Race,” an event held each year in honor of Mrs. Jill Hall, former assistant principal at RHS and principal of Summerdale School. The event, which snakes through the neighborhood surrounding the school, is actually comprised of seven separate races with students competing against others of similar grade levels. Pictured crossing the finish line is Ethan Smith, winner of the 2nd to 3rd grade boys’ race, who blazed through the course well ahead of the nearest competitor.

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National Education Support Professionals Day at Orange Beach Elementary Orange Beach Elementary observed National Education Support Professionals Day on, November 14. Our school support professionals, including food service staff, transportation services staff, custodial services staff, and paraeducators, were honored with a special breakfast and notes of thanks from students and teachers. Pictured are custodians Deloris Maxson, Paul Snider, & Virginia Wilson.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Bayside Academy Students Present “Dracula”

Bayside Academy students had a successful run performing The Passion of Dracula. Held in the Pilot Center Theatre, the students performed to great crowds earlier this month. According to director Tim Kirby, “I could not have been happier with The Passion of Dracula. The cast and crew did an amazing job bringing this passion project of mine to life. I could not have asked for a great group of students with which to work. I’m still receiving accolades about how professionally the students performed. Next up, we fly in Peter Pan.” Pictured, Seniors Daniel Walters as Dracula, Michael Daves as Jonathan Harker, Joseph Watts as Professor Van Helsing and Molly Pinnix as Wilhelmina Murray.

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W.J. Carroll 4th Graders Create Living Christmas Tree

A fourth grade class at W. J. Carroll got together with their teacher on the school pentaweb to create a living Christmas tree. With teacher Ms. Mandy Ames in no particular order are Kylee Agee, Vic Allo, Trent Battle, Nathan Cox, Michael Duffie, Savannah Fretwell, John Goodman, Joseph Guarisco, Joseph Hymel, Kaitlyn Ikner, Sydney Imperato, Daryl Jackson, Da’Maya Jemison, Aidan LeJeune, Peyton Mann, Eva McDonald, Bailey McNeil, Emma Morvant, Andrew Parnell, Samuel Phillips, Andrea Salinas-Valero, Shaniah Shaw, Reese Smith, Christopher Stuck, Jack Taylor, Bella Verhoestra, Alexis Webster, and Matthew Younkin.

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Bayshore Christian School 5th Graders Visit Sea Lab

Mrs. Stacy Little’s 5th grade class from Bayshore Christian School had a blast at the Dauphin Island Sea lab on November 8. Pictured are Bayshore Christian School 5th grade class along with their aide Mrs. Amanda Holland.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Wrapped with Love from Daphne Elementary School

Mrs. Ginny Clayton’s First Grade Class decorated gift bags for the veterans at William F. Greene Veteran Home in Bay Minette. The bags will be used for gifts which the American Legion Auxiliary members will fill with Christmas goodies. L To R Back Row: Ginny Clayton, Bryar Oberkirch, Chris Cantrell, Roderick Womack, Christo Pierce, Justin Buckner, Jacob Weir, Sidney Bowman, Kayden Valrie, Keelan Reed; Front Row: Alexandra Brousseau, Olivia McDonald, Kara Cooper, Maggie Walding, Kacey Quinnelly, Haley White, Jaelyn Myles, Saylor Bryant, and Jade Clark.

Rockwell Students Cheer on Spanish Fort Toros to State

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Rockwell students cheer on the Spanish Fort High School football team, who were on their way to the State Championship game in Auburn! GO TOROS!

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FMS Announces Students of the Month for October and November

Fairhope Middle School proudly announces its October and November Students of the Month. These students were chosen by the faculty for their outstanding effort in the classroom and exemplary behavior. Pictured, in no particular order, are the following students: October, 7th grade – Sallie Fell and Emerson Matter, 8th grade – Allison Irvin and Stanley Jetson; November, 7th grade – Lauren Burrell and Cullen Freeman, 8th grade – William Solomon. Not pictured is Mallory Odom, 8th grade – November.

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Gulf Shores Elementary Collects Pennies for Puppies

During Red Ribbon Week, Gulf Shores Elementary School assisted the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Office by raising money towards the purchase of a new dog for their K-9 unit. “Pennies for Puppies” is a campaign that was launched two years ago and partners with the Baldwin County Public School System. The campaign is aligned with Red Ribbon Week which is a national drug awareness movement celebrated in October.The goal of the “Pennies for Puppies” drive is to raise $14,000. That is the approximate cost to purchase a new law enforcement K-9 and put it on the streets of Baldwin County. Gulf Shores Elementary School was proud to help with such a great cause and to raise money towards purchasing a new dog for the Baldwin County Sheriff’s Department. Pictured from left to right: Julie Pierce, principal, Jena Lindsey, school counselor, Savannah Higginson, Red Ribbon Leadership Winner, and Deputy Jeff Spaller.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

7 Spanish Fort High School Homecoming Maids Tea

The Homecoming Maids Tea was held in the Library Media Center at Spanish Fort High School. The Homecoming Maids were joined by family and friends and enjoyed a reception after school. Parents pinned the sashes on the girls and they all enjoyed refreshments and fellowship. Mrs. Wendy Knight sponsored the event and the Homecoming Maids participated in the Community Pep Rally, which immediately followed the tea. Gabbrielle Peters was chosen as the Homecoming Queen for 2012. From L to R â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Back Row: Tess Lewis, Sarah Carrico, Savannah Rogers, Ramsey Wilder, Rebecca Kidder, Katrina Garofano, Ashley Owen, Meredeth Phillips, Erica Cockrell, Jessica Kiser, Regan Simms, Makennah Wagner; Front Row: Katie Clark, Aren Valrie, Amber Treace, Kelli Mundell, Kathleen Dismukes, Gabbrielle Peters.

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W.J. Carroll Spelling Bee Winners

W. J. Carroll Intermediate School would like to congratulate their spelling bee winners. From left are Walt Cassidy who won first place, Peyton Mann who placed second, and Chapel Hurst who placed third. Walt will represent the school for the county spelling bee later this school year.

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Christ the King School 7th Grader Performs in Prep Band Concert

CKCS seventh grader Joseph Doehring has a big smile after performing in the Christmas concert at school on Thursday, Dec. 13. Joseph is part of the McGillToolen Catholic High School prep band that includes students in grades five through eight from the Catholic grade schools in the Mobile area. The band visited CKCS, much to the delight of the student body, bringing Christmas cheer and fun along with great holiday music.

Skate Day at Daphne Elementary School

Mrs. Tina Davis' second grade class enjoyed a skate day...Jon Hymel and Caroline Polk excited about all the tickets they have won!

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Fairhope Middle School Spelling Bee Winners

Fairhope Middle School recently held its school wide spelling bee The school will be represented in the Baldwin County spelling bee by first place winner Wanda Schlumpf, a 7th grade FMS student. The alternate representative is Chakiera Fountain, a FMS 8th grader. The county spelling bee will be held in February at the Loxley Civic Center. Pictured, from left to right, are Chakiera Fountain, Mrs. Crys Hatcher, spelling bee sponsor and 8th grade FMS language arts teacher, and Wanda Schlumpf.

Robertsdale Elementary is honored to have been selected as a recipient of Channel 15’s Cool School Award. Four main programs were highlighted in the television segment. They included: Project Jubilee’s recycling program, the sixth grade Digital Renaissance implementation, the newly formed Archery program, and the Robertsdale Elementary Choir. Shown in the picture is Meteorologist Deidre Tate, along with several members of the choir performing one of their songs from the recently held Veterans Day program.

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Robertsdale Elementary is a Channel 15 Cool School

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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FHS Theatre Department Soars at State Festival

The Alabama Conference of Theatre held the 72nd annual Walter Trumbauer Secondary Theatre Festival on November 29-Decemeber 1, at the University of North Alabama.The festival consisted of 28 individual events, a one-act play festival, and a studio theatre festival—representing the talent of over 750 students from grades 9-12. Each performance was viewed by two judges. A score of 30-39 received a medalist rating of “Excellent,” and a score of 40-50 received a medalist rating of “Superior.” Each category was split into two subcategories: novice (appearing for the first time) and varsity (second+ appearance). The top three in each subcategory received trophies. On Saturday, Fairhope students presented eight performances within six different categories. Fairhope was one of two schools from Baldwin County to compete and the only one to bring home trophies for first, second, and third places. Because this was Fairhope’s first year to appear in the festival, all of the students were “novice” level except for Emma Byrd, a recent transfer to the town, who competed in the festival last year. In “Duet Dramatic Category: Novice,” Fairhope brought home both the gold and silver. Ben Lundy and Kate Lloyd sang Dear Victor from the FHS Theatre Department’s upcoming musical, Frankenstein: A New Musical, and brought home the first place trophies. Emma Byrd and Merideth Busby sang For Good from the popular Broadway musical, Wicked, scoring second place. In one of the biggest triumphs, Darby Dempsey competed in the “Solo Musical Female Comedic” category, against 28 incredibly talented girls, with her performance of All For You from Suessical the Musical, winning the third place prize. “I wish I could have given you bonus points,” one judge commented on her score sheet that had already received perfect marks. Blake Thompson received a superior medal for his “Solo Musical Male Comedic” performance of Les Poissons from The Little Mermaid; Merideth Busby received a superior medal for her “Solo Musical Female Dramatic” performance of Home from Beauty and the Beast; Emma Byrd scored an excellent-level medal for her rendition of Don’t Rain On My Parade from Funny Girl; Kate Lloyd received an excellent-level medal for her performance of Funny Girl from Funny Girl. Jacob Sanford, scoring a medal of excellence, was the only non-musical performer, acting from Twelfth Night in the “Solo Acting Classical Comedic” category. Pictured, back row from left to right is Emma Byrd, Merideth Busby, Brady Grimm, Darby Dempsey, Kate Lloyd, Sponsor Katie Denton. The front row from left to right is Ty Reed, Blake Thompson, Jacob Sanford, Noah Dearing, and Ben Lundy.

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O Bayside Academy Standout Named Gatorade Alabama Volleyball Player of the Year

Bayside Academy is pleased to announce that senior Virginia Pittman has been named the 2012-2013 Gatorade Alabama Volleyball Player of the Year. Virginia is the second Bayside student to be chosen for the prestigious award which recognizes outstanding athletic excellence coupled with high standards of academic achievement and exemplary character demonstrated both on and off the court. Virginia is a 6-foot-3 middle who led the Admirals (65-2) to our 11th consecutive state championship this past season. She has been selected to the Press Register’s Super 12 Team three times over her career during which she amassed 601 kills while compiling a .413 hitting percentage. She also recorded 232 digs, 140 service aces, and 135 blocks. During the Class 3A state title sweep of Cottage Hill Christian Academy, she was named the Co-Most Valuable Player of the tournament in which she collected 16 kills, five blocks, four digs, and three service aces. Virginia’s talents are not limited to the volleyball court: she is also a basketball standout. Between her time on the two courts, she has continued to maintain a 4.06 weighted GPA and serves in Bayside’s student government association, the Key Club, and the National Honor Society, as well as her church’s youth group. She has also participated in Distinguished Young Women, the Capstone Leadership Academy, and Alabama Girls State. Virginia plans to attend the University of Alabama in the fall.

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Bayshore Christian School First Graders Visit Homestead Village Residents

Mrs. Redman’s and Mrs. Rawls first grade class from Bayshore Christian School delighted the residents of Homestead Village last week with Christmas carols and homemade cards. Pictured, Bayshore Christian School first grader Lillie Lassiter gives a Homestead resident a big “Merry Christmas” hug.

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Teacher of the Year for Orange Beach Elementary

Orange Beach Elementary School is proud to announce Mrs. Deborah Holder as its 20122013 Teacher of the Year. Mrs. Holder has taught 2nd grade at Orange Beach Elementary School for 10 years. She is a University of Alabama graduate & received her Master of Education Degree from the University of South Alabama. The students & staff of Orange Beach Elementary School see the dedication & care that Mrs. Holder gives to every life she touches. We are honored to show her our appreciation for her efforts with this award. Congratulations to Mrs. Deborah Holder! The Teacher of the Year at Orange Beach Elementary has a reserved parking space in the teacher parking lot.

Gulf Shores Elementary Cottage Plant Watering

Second graders love Wednesdays in the Cozy Cottage classrooms in front of Gulf Shores Elementary School. That’s the day they get to water all of the plants they’ve been tending to all year. They purchased the plants, repotted them and help them grow – thanks to the Baldwin EMC Starlight Grant! Pictured are Cole Gunter and Maggie Woodley, the Gulf Shores High School teaching intern for second grade, watering the front porch plants.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Fairhope Middle School Student Body Helps Toy Drive

Students of Fairhope Middle School recently assisted WKRG â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Channel 5 with their annual holiday toy drive. Sponsored by the FMS National Junior Honor Society, the student body donated over 300 toys for distribution to needy children. Pictured, from left to right, with the toy collection are the NJHS officers: Sawyer Connick, Historian; Noah White, Treasurer; Jack Flowers, President; Virginia Green, Secretary; and Lane Stark, Vice President. The FMS NJHS sponsors are Mrs. Tonya Harrelson, 8th grade math teacher, Mrs. Erica Lee, 8th grade math teacher, and Mrs. Melody Early, 7th grade science teacher.

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W.J. Carroll Geography Bee Winners

W. J. Carroll Intermediate School congratulates the place winners for their Geography Bee. The Bee is sponsored by National Geographic to encourage the teaching geography in schools. From left are Erin Lockwood who placed third, Colton Watkins who placed first, and Matthew Crider who placed second. Colton will take a written test in January to see if he qualifies to participate in the state competition later in the spring.

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Robertsdale Elementary Recognizes Positive Performance for November

Many students are making positive contributions and exhibiting good character at Robertsdale Elementary School. Pictured are students who received positive office referrals for the month of November (in no particular order): kindergarten - Heath Anderson, Aiden Drake, Anthony Gonzalez, Emma Howard, Carlos Montellano, Henry Nehls, Emmie Pazarella, Alana Reid, Addison Scott, Marley Sledge, and Bradley Stewart; first grade - Trista Hayles and Madison Williams; second grade Justin Gomez, Macie-Claire Moore, Nehemiah Peters, Tamaya Williams, and Brooklyn Young; third grade - Isabella Allen, Jay Angel, Ashley Brown, Gabby Chaney, Kelsea Darden, Victor Hurtado, Haley Jasperson, Mason McVeigh, Belinda Pineda, Brianna Stallworth, and Mae Thomas; fourth grade - Colton Bostwick, Jonathan Earp, Alexus McCranie, Calvin Parnell, and Colin Wallace; fifth grade - Sherry Absher, Andres Ordiano, and Lanie Simmons; sixth grade - Nathan Coggins, John Leigh, Amy Nehls, Keyshawn Mims, Lena Salter, and Gavin Wallace. Not pictured are Kayleigh Byerly, Chris Sanders, and Blake Simmons.

Daphne Elementary Collects Toys for Tots

Mrs. Tina Davis' Trojan Team Leaders Anthony Bivines and Ryan Carraway are putting toys from our classroom under the tree for Toys for Tots.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

A Bayside Donates to Toys for Tots

In the spirit of the season, Bayside Academy fourth graders collected toys for Toys for Tots. They dropped off their donations at the local Fairhope Toys for Tots collection site. Among the donated items were bicycles, board games, and books. Bayside students Catherine Hawkins, Alayna Summersell, Grace Compton, Robert Compton, and Charles St. Pierre take donations to Toys for Tots.

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Spanish Fort High School Volleyball Team Cheers on the Toros The Spanish Fort High School girls volleyball team sat together to cheer on the Toros at the last pep rally of the year. These players know the excitement of preparing to go to State and compete with the best. They were all smiles as the football team entered the gym filled with TORO pride! Pictured from L to R: Bottom Row â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Riley Uhle, Chloe Dasinger, Rebecca Morehouse, Mia Baraza, Sarah Shirley, Gabby Horst, and Haley Ashton; Top Row â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Briana Rider, Ashley Hartley, Tegan Lousart, and Savannah Rider.

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Gulf Shores 4th Grade Angel Tree and Online Shopping

Mrs. Katie Nettles' 4th grade class at Gulf Shores Elementary School adopted an angel tree child through the Salvation Army's annual Christmas program. They learned to budget their money and go shopping online to buy presents for their adopted "brother." Even better than the lesson they learned in math and economics, they learned an even more important lesson... The value of giving and helping others! Pictured left to right: Molly Malone, Emily Graham, Demmie Myrick, and Kasey Vogel.

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Bayshore Student Wins First Place in Regional Essay Contest

Bayshore Christian School would like to congratulate 7th grader Miles Thomas. Miles won an essay contest called the Patriot’s Pen, sponsored by the VFW. The theme of the essay was “What would I tell America’s Founding Fathers.” The contest was open to 6th, 7th, and 8th graders nation-wide. Out of the 155 essays entered in the Fairhope area, Miles’ essay won 1st place. His essay will now move to the State competition level. Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Spanish Fort High School Project Outreach Celebrates Special Birthday

Project Outreach students from Spanish Fort High School celebrated a very special 17th birthday for Ross Thompson, in Mrs. Hartley's class. Students from Project Outreach gathered in the library and surprised Ross with birthday cards, balloons, smiles, and hugs! Ross's mom and grandparents were also there to celebrate the big surprise. This is just one more example of the outstanding students in Project Outreach and their willingness to reach out to others. Happy Birthday Ross! Pictured, Back L to R â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Gabbi Peters, Ross Thompson, Cally Shirk, Makennah Wagner; Front L to R â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Kayli Pledger, Alana Edgar, Mary Katheryn Gibson, Ashton Prouty.

Christ the King School Fourth Graders Relate the Christmas Chronicles

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Christ the King Catholic School fourth graders performed The Christmas Chronicles at school on Dec. 20. The encore performance of their Christmas play told the story of the birth of Christ as witnessed by the reporters of the Bethlehem Chronicle newspaper.

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Orange Beach Elementary Helps Celebrate Library’s Birthday

On December 16, 2012 Orange Beach Public Library partnered with Orange Beach Elementary School’s PTO to celebrate the 20th birthday of the library. The first Library Director was hired in June of 1992, library cards were first given to the community in October and then, in December of 1992, the Orange Beach Public Library began circulating books. Since that time, the Library has evolved into a dynamic center for community learning and entertainment. Among the honors that have accumulated include the very first Blue Ribbon award for Alabama Libraries and a top rating of five stars from the American Library Association. We are proud to have served Orange Beach and its visitors over the last two decades and we plan on an even brighter future. To celebrate, a program in the school’s gym was presented by Mark Seymour. This energetic, educational and entertaining performance highlighted library services and programs. His interactive show had the students and teachers up on their feet singing, dancing, and laughing. Throughout the program, Mark mentioned many of the entertaining and educational opportunities offered by the Orange Beach Library that appeal to elementary school children and their parents. Everyone really enjoyed the program! Lori Brocato, school principal, was delighted with the show, mentioning that she would like to have Mark return in the future. Mark’s enthusiasm is absolutely contagious and his ongoing program theme of Be-At Your Best is uplifting and fun. To commemorate the 20th year of library service to our City, Mark included a Happy Birthday sung for the library and a catch-the-reading-bug song to help encourage children to explore the many, powerful opportunities for self-growth through active literacy. Pictured, Mark Seymour gets close-up while Macee Kee and Connor Gehr are entertained by his “magic” drumsticks. Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Write On! Drawing Inspiration from Toys

Recommending the Best Toys and Products for Kids

When children reach the age where they know that finger paint goes onto paper (as opposed to in their mouth), their artistic journey has begun! That journey will include using crayons, markers, pencils and pens as kids strive to make their mark on the world around them. Sometimes these mediums of art in children’s hands can find unintended canvases, decorating destinations parents never imagined (ie. living room walls, car upholstery and sibling’s faces). Rather than restricting kids’ drawing and art, consider the following drawing outlets that offer kids engaging options to make their mark, again and again, without the mess!

by Paige Gardner Smith

Inkoos

AquaDoodle

Inkoos are plush colorful animals that are designed for kids to draw on and decorate to their heart’s content. And when the drawing and decorations are done, and the artist is ready to begin again...Inkoos go right in the wash with the laundry. Coming out of the dryer, Inkoos are ‘back-to-go’ as a toy canvas that invites kids to write messages, draw features, or make any kind of art on their surface. The Inkoo Mini comes with one clip-on washable marker and the larger version comes with three clip-on markers. There’s even a Glowin-the-Dark Inkoo for night owls! Reusable and mess-free, Inkoos are the perfect, plush, portable canvas for the artistic child.

The youngest of artists are now free to create without fear of mistakes or mess with AquaDoodle. The cloth bordered drawing mat has a surface that responds to a simple water marker with brilliant lines and colors that will delight young Picassos. And running out of drawing space isn’t a problem, because as each artwork dries, it simply fades away and the AquaDoodle canvas is ready for the next masterpiece to appear. No rough edges, no batteries, no stains, spills or permanent marks make AquaDoodle the perfect palette and portable canvas for older toddlers and up!

(The Bridge Direct)

(Spin Master)

Hot Wheels Lightbox Design Set

Crayola Light Designer (Crayola)

For the prolific young artist who’s already covered multiple refrigerators with drawings, the Crayola Light Designer offers a new outlet and new dimension for art. It’s a dome that responds with light to a stylus tool, letting kids create original color ‘drawings’ made of light. There are also pre-programmed templates and scenes that children can build out with their own drawings and colors. Games that cultivate use of the light drawing format are also included in the Light Designer, so kids can hone their skills with the stylus. The round dome “canvas” of the Crayola Light Designer expands kids’ spatial understanding as they begin to envision their drawing wrapping around the dome. An ideal added dimension and next step for the enthusiastic young artist, drawing with light will brighten their artistic horizon!

(Fashion Angels)

One cool way to train a young designer and tune up fine motor skills for advanced drawing is to trace images and the best way to do that is to use a light box. The Hot Wheels Lightbox features a tracing surface that lights up, illuminating films that guide smaller hands as they trace car body design images onto their sketch page. Once the broad strokes are in place, artists can customize their car with colors and logos. Finishing touches for the car art include engines, mufflers and doors. The combinations are endless, and the inspirations constant as kids build layers of confidence and better motor skills using the Lightbox Design Set to train the artist within!

Paige Smith is a freelance writer and syndicated columnist living in Alabama. More on GET THIS! at www.PageBookMedia.com.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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Obesity

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How It’s Effecting Our Kids & How We Can Help by Katie White, CPNP

Growing up in the Deep South, I was always surrounded by great southern style food. My granny always told me I had to finish my plate or I could not get up from the table or have dessert. The bad thing is the amount and type of food on my plate was not healthy. My mom jokingly blames her mom for her weight problem because she always made her finish her plate. What my mom learned as a child led her to continue overeating because learned habits are hard to break. Worldwide, 1.4 billion adults were overweight in 2008 and 40 million children under the age of five were overweight. The prevalence of obesity has increased dramatically over the past three decades. Here in the United States, 5% of adolescents in 1980 were obese which increased to 18% in 2008. This represents that approximately 900 million adolescents are overweight and 80% of those will become obese adults. Overweight is described as having a body mass index (BMI) between the 85th and 95th percentile; obese is defined as a BMI above the 95th percentile. To find out you and your child’s BMI visit cdc.gov. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

What’s Causing the Problem?

With these types of facts, we can see the major problem we have, not only locally, but worldwide. Being a pediatric nurse practitioner I see children on a daily basis who struggle with being overweight and obesity. The problem lays heavy on my heart because I do not want to see these children grow up with health issues such as diabetes, heart disease, sleep apnea, or non-hepatic fatty liver disease. The Youth Risk Behavior Surveillance System (YRBSS) is a program in place to identify how many adolescents and young adults are participating in unhealthy behaviors or are at an unhealthy weight. The YRBSS found, in the state of Alabama, the main problems causing a rise in overweight and obesity were drinking sodas, not exercising enough, and too many hours spent behind an electronic device. Teenagers should strive to exercise for 60 minutes at least 3-4 days per week.

What’s the Solution?

Children become obese because the amount of calories taken in exceeds the amount being expended, therefore causing a caloric overload. Behavioral modifica40

tions needed to be made to correct this problem include basic healthy eating and exercise. Children who struggle with weight problems have problems with body image, low self-esteem, decrease energy levels, and even depression. So how do we fix this problem? The answer lies in a group effort from the community, doctor’s office and family. I see obstacles related to adolescents wanting and needing to live a healthy lifestyle every day. These include not wanting to change learned habits, not understanding lifelong consequences and poor family support. When counseling an adolescent who is obese, I always try to include the whole family because the adolescent cannot change by himself; the whole family must make changes and support each other in the process. The community needs to offer more opportunities for children to stay active and make healthier food choices. The child’s doctor plays the role of the educator as well as monitors for diseases which occur as a result of obesity. The child and the entire family must be educated on lifelong consequences of obesity, as well as how to live a healthy life. Your child’s Advertising: 251-929-2099

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doctor can order appropriate screening tests to rule out any complications caused from obesity. Complications, also known as comorbid diseases, caused from obesity include diabetes, non-hepatic fatty liver, gallstones, and high cholesterol. Other illnesses caused from obesity include hyperinsulinaemia, insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, sleep apnea, and many types of cancers. All comorbid illnesses obesity causes can increase visits to the doctor and extensive testing, which in return causes increases in medical costs for the child. These problems can also cause an increase in absentee days from school.

How Parents Can Help Their Kids

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The family probably plays the biggest role in the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ability to live a healthy lifestyle. The caregiver can purchase more healthy foods for the home, encourage the child to get active, and most importantly give the child as much support as needed. A few good tips for you to adapt include: offering 1% or skim milk for children two years and older and limiting to no more than 1-2 cups per day; use olive oil, margarine, or cooking spray when preparing food instead of butter, canola oil, or bacon grease; use 2% or fat free cheese; say no to white foods; green and purple vegetables and fruits are better than yellow vegetables and fruits; eat more white meat chicken and fish; buy lean pork and beef (93/7); do not purchase fruit juices or sugar sweetened drinks (soda, energy drinks, fruit punch, etc); try to limit eating out to no more than twice per month and choose healthy meal options; eat at the dinner table as a family at least 5 times per week; and always offer breakfast. Try to provide your child with an appropriate portioned meal and allow the child to decide how much of the meal he or she wants to eat. Restricting how much your child eats can lead to overeating in between meals when your child is not hungry. Also, keeping your child active and entertained can decrease the likely hood of eating due to being bored. When purchasing food, pay close attention to the food label. You should try to purchase foods low in saturated and trans fats and high in dietary fiber. Keeping a diary of all foods and drinks consumed in 24 hours is an excellent activity that allows you to visualize where your calories are coming from. The

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

diary is only for your eyes unless you wish to share with others. The food diary should consist of breakfast, lunch, dinner and snacks. You should try to include amounts of each food and liquids consumed. Also, be specific with type of food and drinks. For example, write one cup of 2% milk instead of glass of milk. As a family, you can sit down and review the children’s diaries. You can also take your child’s food diary to his or her doctor’s appointment for review. Did you know the normal adult serving of a sub sandwich is only three inches, not six and definitely not a foot long? Also, an adult serving of chicken nuggets is a 4 piece kid’s meal. A typical four piece chicken nugget has 190 calories and 12 grams of fat. A twenty piece chicken nugget pack has 940 calories and 59 grams of fat. And remember, children should eat approximately half of what an adult eats. So before you supersize or let your child order an adult meal think about this. If eating out is inevitable, order your child a four piece chicken nugget meal (only giving three), offer a side salad with low fat dressing instead of fries, and a 1% or skim milk or water. What about the chocolate milk or juice you ask? Just say no. Both of these have too much sugar for anyone. So I know I have recommended a lot of changes, but not everything can be changed at once. Baby steps are better than no steps. Evaluate your family’s habits and see what small steps you can begin first. Parents, if you or your child are overweight or obese please consider making a change now. Incorporating healthy lifestyle behaviors in your child’s life now can make the biggest impact on the rest of his life. Remember, only making a few changes to the child’s diet and activity level can decrease the likelihood of comorbid illnesses, being bullied, and mental illnesses such as depression. For more information and resources please visit cdc. gov; aap.org; fda.gov; and choosemyplate. gov. ESP Katie White is a Certified Pediatric Nurse Practitioner who was born and raised in Fairhope, Alabama. She received her undergraduate and graduate degrees from the University of South Alabama in Nursing and currently works at Fairhope Pediatrics as a pediatric nurse practitioner. Currently obtaining a doctorate in nursing at Troy University, her doctorate project focuses on Adolescent Obesity and the causes and treatment.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

7 Tips for Finding Your Get Up and Go by Marla Cilley

drink out of a straw. Try it. Water goes down much faster when you suck it up. Have you lost your get up and go and you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t know where it got up and went? Many of us have this problem. The answer may surprise you! You are dehydrated! Yes, you heard me. You are not drinking enough water. I did not say liquids, I said water. Do you know how much water you need to drink? Eight 8 oz. glasses is the recommended about for normal height and weight. I have some tips for reminding yourself to drink your water.

4. Keep a bottle of water in your car, by your chair and by your bed. When you think you are hungry, drink a glass of water first. 5. If you canâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t keep up with the number of bottles you are drinking then use rubber bands on your water bottle. Each time you refill your water bottle, roll it up on your bottle. I have seven colored hair ties on my water bottle.

2. Get four 16 oz. bottles of water and set them out each morning. Refill each night.

6. Take a pretty jug that can hold 64 oz. I have used a big round wine bottle that I filled with 12 oz. glasses. Each time I poured the water into the bottle, I made a mark on the side to calibrate it. That way, any time during the day, I could count how many ounces I had taken in for the day.

3. Drink water with all your meals. If you have a hard time drinking water, use a pretty glass or favorite cup. You can also

7. Drink water at the top of every hour and at the bottom of the hour. Set your timer to remind you to drink up!

1. Put up post-it notes to remind you: Bright red or neon. Any color to get your attention. Set up a reminder on your phone.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

If you have the flu or respiratory infection, the water will help to break up the phlegm and wash the impurities out of your system. You will cough up this stuff. It is my best medicine for a cold, flu, or stomach virus. Please keep in mind that too much of a good thing is bad. Do not drink more than 12 oz/ in a 30 minute period of time. There is such a thing as water intoxication. Your kidneys can shut down. Use baby steps and incorporate water drinking into your routines. This will be good for you and it may just give you the energy to get your routines done. One other benefit from drinking water... your skin will not be as dry or wrinkled. Water is the best beauty makeover.

For more help getting rid of your CHAOS, see her website and join her free mentoring group at www. FlyLady.net. Also check out her books, Sink Reflections, published by Random House, and her New York Times Best Selling book, Body Clutter, published by Simon and Schuster. Copyright 2013 Marla Cilley. Used by permission in this publication.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Q. Our son is graduating from high school next spring. We’ve saved cash to pay for his first year of college, and we have enough in mutual funds to pay for another semester. When should we pull out the money to use for his education? A.

I wouldn’t touch the money until right before you write the checks. However, I don’t want you to follow my advice just because I said so. My mutual funds have made a little more than 16 percent this year. If they stay at that pace, or if they make just 10 percent during the first part of 2013, I’d want it to just sit there a while longer. Why not let the power of compound interest do its thing and make you as much money as possible?

The biggest question is what are you going to do for cash after the first three semesters? Your son needs to make sure he’s working summers, and maybe even part-time during school, in order to fuel his education. And neither of you should borrow money to make it happen. You guys have gotten him off to a great start. So if he does his part there’s no reason for either of you to go into debt for his college degree!

Q. I have $1,000 in credit card debt, a $12,000 car loan and I owe my parents $20,000. The loan from my parents is causing stress because all I can afford to give them is $200 a month. They don’t need the money, but they’d like to see it paid off soon. What can I do?

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If you’re not already living on a written, monthly budget, that should be the first step. You say your parents don’t need the money, right? So, they’re not living on bread and water without your payments. I think the biggest thing causing them stress is the fear that you’re being irresponsible and living without a plan. Make out a simple, realistic budget, and sit down with them to explain what you’re doing and how you plan to address things. Start a debt snowball, and begin knocking out your debts smallest to largest. By the time you pay off the credit cards and the car, you’ll be able to give them lots more than $200 a month. Just ask mom and dad to stick with you a while longer. I think it will make them feel better to see that you’re serious about getting your finances in order!

Q. I make about $70,000 a year, and I have $9,000 in student loan debt. I also have a car that would bring enough to allow me to pay off the student loans. Do you think I should sell? A.

There are two questions I ask when it comes to selling a car to pay off debt. One, is the value of your car and other vehicles—including motorcycles, boats and such— more than half of your yearly income? If so, then you have way too much money wrapped up in things that are going down in value. So, unless you’re talking about a super-expensive car, I’d say the answer on this one is no. The second question is this: Can you become debt-free, except for your home, in 18–24 months without selling the car? If the answer is yes, then I wouldn’t sell the car. There’s no reason to sell your car in this scenario, unless you just really hate the thing or need different transportation. In this case, it sounds like your car is a reasonable percentage of your income. I’d hold on to it and just save like crazy to kill off this student loan debt. With your income, it shouldn’t take more than a year. Advertising: 251-929-2099

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Choosing Childcare

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Get the facts. Do the homework. Trust your judgment. by Michele Ranard, M.Ed.

Choosing a healthy, safe place for your child to thrive and learn is a daunting decision. But take a deep breath. Quality options for daycare and preschool are out there. It’s important to gather information, do the legwork, and ultimately trust your gut.

Get the Facts: Narrow the Possibilities

Begin your search early. Ann Douglas, author of Choosing Childcare for Dummies, suggests embarking upon your quest between eight weeks and a year before your back-to-work date. Contact your local child care referral agency by checking Child Care Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Aware, a national consumer education parent hotline (1-800-424-2246) and web delivery system (www.childcareaware. org). The National Child Care Information Center (1-800-616-2242 or www.nccic. org) is also a good start. Ask the referral agency about licensing requirements in your area and how to collect information about complaints or licensing violations. Ask about financial assistance programs for which you may qualify. Also, be sure to investigate the many child care options in the River Region in Montgomery Parents’ 2012 Child Care Directory immediately following this article!

Home Daycare or Center?

Home daycare may make sense. 48

Providers tend to have flexible hours (especially helpful for atypical work schedules). They may have less rigid schedules and policies which set you at ease. If it is important that your caregiver be open to lots of individual accommodations (i.e. irregular naptimes), a home provider might suit you and your child best. Some home providers are regulated, but many are not so it’s a personal choice. Licensed daycare centers offer many advantages. Centers may hire certified early childhood educators with training in child development as well as clearly outlined policies. Also, having more than one caregiver on the premises provides peace of mind (especially if you’re concerned about TV watching or unfamiliar adults in Advertising: 251-929-2099

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a home setting). Centers offer reliability so you won’t have to scramble for care if one caregiver is ill or on vacation. The spaces in a center are typically kid friendly and designed with safety in mind. Because of government regulation, child to caregiver ratios, safety requirements, and criminal record checks are standard.

Do the Homework: Visit and Assess Quality

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends you consider the following 13 guidelines as you evaluate the quality of a provider: *Supervision. Are children supervised at all times, even when they are sleeping? Is discipline positive, clear, consistent, and fair? *Handwashing/Diapering. Hands should be scrubbed with soap and water for at least 10 seconds and then rinsed and dried. Faucets should be turned off with a paper towel. *Director Qualification. Director should hold a B.A. degree and have worked in child care at least two years. *Teacher Qualifications. Lead teacher should hold a B.A. degree in a child-related field and have worked in child care for at least a year. *Child:Staff Ratio. One family home caregiver should care for only two babies. The fewer children each caregiver cares for, the better. *Immunizations. Does the provider have records proving that other children are up to date? *Toxic Substances. Are cleaning supplies and pest killers kept far from children? *Emergency Plan. Are first aid kits and emergency plans in place? *Fire Drills. Are these practiced monthly? *Child Abuse. Can caregivers be seen by others at all times so a child is never alone with one caregiver? Have all caregivers gone through a background check? Have all caregivers been trained to prevent, recognize, and report child abuse? *Medication. Is it kept out of reach and labeled properly? *Staff Training. Have all caregivers been trained in first aid and CPR? *Playground. Is it developmentally appropriate, clean, and inspected regularly for safety?

Carnival of the Animals Scott Speck, conductor

Jenny Gregoire, Enen Yu, violin Per Tengstrand, Shan-Shan Sun, piano Bach’s Concerto for Two Violins, Stravinsky’s Pulcinella Suite and Saint-Saens’ zoological fantasy Carnival of the Animals Saturday, Jan. 19, 8 p.m. Sunday, Jan. 20, 2:30 p.m. Saenger Theatre Tickets start at just $15. Tickets available online at www.mobilesymphony.org Phone: 251-432-2010 In person: 257 Dauphin Street

Follow the Mobile Symphony!

Sponsored by:

Jim & Vivien Harmon The Mary Josephine Larkins Foundation

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Quality Preschools

The National Association for the

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Education of Young Children (NAEYC) suggests the following 10 signs are indicative of a good preschool: 1. Children spend most of their time playing and working with materials or with other children. 2. Children have access to various activities throughout the day. 3. Teachers work with individual children, small groups, and the whole group at different times during the day. 4. The classroom is decorated with children’s original artwork and projects. 5. Children learn numbers and the alphabet in the context of their everyday experiences. 6. Children work on projects and have long periods of time to play and explore. 7. Worksheets are used rarely, if at all. 8. Children have an opportunity to play outside in a safe play area every day. 9. Teachers read books to children individually or in small groups. 10. Curricula are adapted for those who are ahead as well as those who need additional help.

Trust Your Judgment: Notice your Gut

One of the most helpful factors to consider when choosing a provider is the interaction between caregiver and children. Is there good communication? What is the caregiver’s interpersonal style? Notice how the interaction makes you feel. Is it a place you would look forward to coming each day? In order to find the best fit for your child, consider how the provider’s philosophy of child rearing, discipline, education, and nurturing meshes with your own. As Ann Douglas says in her book, “You can’t count on anyone else to guarantee your child’s health, safety, and well-being in a particular child care setting. Like it or not, the buck stops with you.” Do you agree with how a provider believes your child should be guided and cared for each day? You should feel a sense of trust in the caregiver/program and that your child will learn and grow happily within a particular environment. ESP Michele Ranard has two children, a master’s in counseling, and a background in teaching preschool and running a daycare. Visit her at hellolovelyinc.blogspot.com.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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2013 Childcare Directory

Angels Under Our Care

Director: Latisa Bates Address:8355 Jonesboro Road, Daphne Phone: 626-6056 Serving infants age 6 weeks through children 5 years old with emphasis on school readiness. Hours are 6:30am – 6:00pm.

Country Day School

Director: Stacey Martiniere Address: 23800 US Highway 98, Fairhope Phone: 928-1403 Website: www.countrydayfairhope.com Registration is Wednesday, January 30th from 9:30am – 11:30. First come first serve. Ages 18 months - Half Day Kindergarten.

Daphne United Methodist Preschool

Director: Lee Scioneaux Address: 2401 Main Street, Daphne Phone: 626-3606 Email: preschool@dumc.org Website: www.dumc.org Open registration begins Monday, February 4th at 8 am until full. Preschool Ages 2-4. Full and half day available. Sharing God’s love.

Eastern Shore Baptist Church

Weekday Education Ministries Director: Gail Gardner Address: 6847 Park Drive, Daphne Phone: 626-7627 Website: www.myesbc.net Fall Registration for Preschool (ages 2 4 yrs) will begin in March. Mother’s Morning Out (ages 6wks – 23 mos) registration begins in April. Hours are 9:00am – 2:00pm with NEW Extended option from 7:30am – 3:00pm.

Eastern Shore Kids Kastle, Inc.

Address: 10291 County Rd 48, Fairhope Phone: 990-5350 Email: eskki@bellsouth.net Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Open Registration year around. Ages 6 wks - 12 yrs. Full Time. Afterschool Program also Available. Hours are Monday - Friday 6am - 6pm. ChildCare South Accepted. Come See What Sets us APART! Health Habits - Sports Activities - Outdoor Sand/Water Play - Trike Paths Computers - Professional Photos - Special 51

Events - Dance Recitals - Parades - Homework Assessments.

God’s Living Sea

Director: Angela Meadows Address: 9264 Pleasant Road, Daphne Phone: 621-3977 Email: godslivingsea@jubileebaptist.com Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Website: www.jubileebaptist.com Ages 6 months - 4 years. Half Day.

Good Beginnings Community Center

Director: Debra J. Rowe Address: 26120 Equity Drive, Daphne Phone: 3196-5995 “A Lifetime of Learning Begins Here”. Ages 6 weeks – 12 years. Hours are Monday – Friday, 6am – 6pm. After-school care also available. Onsite Spanish and Music teacher. DHR Certified. CPR and First Aid Certified.

Marietta Johnson School of Organic Education

Director: Leslie Mulcahy Address: 8 Marietta Drive, Fairhope Phone: 928-9347 Website: www.fairhopeorganicschool.com We nurture each child’s creativity with weekly classes in art, music, dance and nature study. Celebrating 104 years of Learning through Play and Exploration! Fall Registration applications for Ages 3 - 8th grade will be taken beginning in January. Call for details.

Spanish Fort Presbyterian Preschool

Director: Melissa Ott Address: 6620 Spanish Fort Blvd, Spanish Fort Phone: 626-7137 Email: sfppreschool@gmail.com Website: www.spanishfortpresbyterian.com Ages 18 mths - 4K. Half day program.

St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Preschool

Director: Mary Haulard Address: 28788 North Main St, Daphne Phone: 626-2774 Website: www.stpaulseasternshore.com Registration for Fall begins March 1st.. Call for details. Ages 12months - PreK 4.

The Learning Tree Weekday Early Education at First Baptist Church

Director: Holly Blosser Address: 300 South Section St, Fairhope Phone: 928-0496 Website: www.fbcfairhope.org In House Registration for Fall and Summer is February 20th-21st from 9:00am1:00pm. Registration Open to the Public is

the week of February 25th-March 1st9:00am -1:00pm. Ages 1 - 5yrs. Half Day Program

Tiny Tots Academy

Director: Katherine Turnage Address: 25478 Friendship Road, Daphne Phone: 625-6625www.tinytotsacademy.net Email: tinytotsac@att.net Open registration all year. Ages 6 wks – yrs. Full Day program

Weinacker’s Montessori School

3 locations (1) Director: Amanda Cooper Address: 415 College Ave, Daphne Phone: 626-6163 Email: acooper@WeinackersMontessori.com Open Registration year round. Ages 6 wks - 12 yrs. Full and Half Days available (2) Director: Terri Kasmia Address: 28765 North Main St, Daphne Phone: 259-5037 Email: Tkasmia@WeinackersMontessori.com Open Registration year round. Ages 6 wks - 12 yrs. Full and Half Days available. (2) Director: Trudy Rosenberg Address: 115 Dobson Ave, Bay Minette Phone: 259-5037

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Email: trosenberg@Weinackers Montessori.com Open Registration year round. Ages 6 wks - 12 yrs. Full and Half Days available.

Other Child Care Providers Almost Home Childcare Director: Linda Hendrix Address: 30505 Spanish Ln, Spanish Fort Phone: 626-3022 Email: AlmosthHomeChildcare@gmail.com Open Registration year around. Ages 6wks - 5 yrs. Full and Half Days. Hours are Monday – Friday 7am – 6pm. Bean Sprouts Director: Wanda Burrougs Address: 11065 US Highway 31, Spanish Fort Phone: 626-5445 Convenient to Rockwell Elementary School. Serving ages 6 weeks through 5 years with the Learning Box curriculum. Open 6a.m.-6p.m. Bright Beginnings Preschool Orange Beach UMC Director: Pam Kreamer Address: 28751 Canal Rd, Orange Beach Phone: 981-6750 Website: orangebeachumc.org Email: brightbeginnings@gulftel.com Providing a warm, loving, Christian environment in order for your children to grow spiritually, intellectually, socially, emotionally, and physically. Serving children Age 1 by September 1 of the current school year through 4 years old. Children’s Learning Center Director: Lynn Beasley Address: 22305 Palmer St, Robertsdale Phone: 947-4407 Left Message. 6:30a.m.-5:30p.m. Christ the King Early Childhood Development Center Director: Jennifer Felicelli Address: 1506-B Main Street, Daphne Phone: 621-8391 Email: ctkecdc@gmail.com Website: www.ctk-daphne.org Registration begins February 1st. Ages 6 wks -Pre-K4 for extended care program and a half-day preschool program that goes 7:45 to 11:45 forPre-K3 and Pre-K4. Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Cox Day Care Director: Clara Cox Address: 301 Rain Dr, Bay Minette Phone: 937-2745 We welcome infants’ age 3 weeks to children 12 years old. Open from 5a.m.-6p.m. Cradle 2 Crayons, Inc. Address: 507 Rose Ave, Foley Phone: 251-943-4599 Website: www.cradle2caryonsinc.com Owner/Director: Renee Brunson Assistant Director: Daphne (DeeDee) Henderson E-mail: Info@cradle2crayonsinc.com Open enrolment all year. 6 weeks thru 12 years. 6am - 6pm, Mon - Fri, 3K and 4K programs. After school care available Color Us Kids Learning Center Director: Annette Brumfield Address: 26000 Nelson Street, Daphne Phone: 625-6933 Email: annettebrumfield@ymail.com Open registration year around. Ages 6wks -5yrs. Full Time. Learning Center with Abeka Curriculum. Crossroads Church Preschool Director: Jackie Roberson Address: 10080 County Road 64, Daphne

Phone: 621-2322 or 510-0642 E-mail: crossroadskidz@mediacombb.net Registration for Fall is January 18th. Call for details. Ages 12mths - K4. Half Day Program. Crossroads Head Start Director: Ann Bishop Address: 9411 Hurricane Rd, Bay Minette Phone: 937-5698 caaofsa.org Ongoing registration for ages 3-5 years. Hours 8:30a.m.-2:30p.m. Discovery Island Child Development Director: Melissa Callaway Moody Address: 24843 Commercial Ave, Orange Beach Phone: 974-5488 Website: discoveryislandcdc.com Ongoing registration for ages 6 weeks5years. Hours are 7am-6pm. Only licensed Daycare center on the island. Eastern Shore Academy of Excellence Director: Jamie Nero Address: 23946-B US Hwy 98, Montrose Phone: 928-1854 Open registration year around for children 6 weeks to 12 years of age. Daycare with Preschool curriculum, Afterschool care

and night care. Half Day Program available. Hours 6:30a.m. – 6p.m. and nightcare from 7p.m. – 12a.m. Eastern Shore Early Childhood Center Director: Carol Saltz Address: 1090 Fairhope Avenue, Fairhope Phone: 928-3449 Call for registration information. Full Time. Ages 18 months - 12 yrs. Eastern Shore Montessori School Director: Kate Burdick Address: 980 Main Street, Daphne Phone: 626-7505 Email: esmontessorischool@gmail.com Official registration begins in February 1st with applications taken year round.. Call for details. Full and Half Day available. Ages 2 – Kindergarten. Summer programs also offered. Elsanor Nursery School Director: Rebecca Boyington Address: 23425 Cowling Rd, Robertsdale Phone: 947-5455 Serving children 6 weeks – 4 years. Hours are 6:30a.m.-5:30p.m. Fairhope Preschool Academy Director: Becky Tomaso, M.Ed.

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Address: 925 Nichols Ext., Fairhope Phone: 610-0855 Ages 3 – 5. Hours are Monday – Friday 8am – 12noon. Fairhope UMC Preschool Ministry Director: Terry Lowell Address: 155 South Section St, Fairhope Phone: 928-1280 Website: www.fairhopeumc.org Mon-Fri Mornings, 9am-12pm. Ages 3 - 5 Open registration: January 31 - Ages young 2 (turn 2 during the school year) to Pre-k Faith Family Fellowship Preschool Director: Sharon Frain Address: 7100 Spanish Ft Blvd, Spanish Fort Phone: 626-6338 Website: www.faithfamilyonline.com Fall Registration will take place in early February. Call for more information on dates and time. Ages 15 mths - K-4. Full Day Programs with before & after school care. First Baptist Daycare – Spanish Fort Director: Wanda Finch Address: 8353 Spanish Ft Blvd, Spanish Fort Phone: 626-2946 Open Registration year around. Ages 6wks - 5 yrs. Full Time. First Baptist Child Development Center Director: Becky Perkins Address: 2200 W 1st St, Gulf Shores Phone: 968-8124 Registration begins in June for fall 2013 for children ages 6 weeks – PreK4. Hours are 7:30a.m.-5:30p.m. First Baptist Child Care – Bay Minette Address: 1201 Hand Avenue, Bay Minette Phone: 937-3744 Foley UMC - Joy Center Downtown Foley, 251-943-3688 http://foleydaycare.com Full Day Program 6 weeks - 5 years, MonFri, 7:30am-5:30pm. Mother’s Day Out 18 months – 5 years Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday Only 8am-3pm Good Shepherd Lutheran School Treasurer/Board Member: Cheryl Jantz Address: 24933 Oak St, Elberta Phone: 987-1966 Now registering for PK3-Kindergarten. Children must be potty trained to start. Class is from 7:55a.m.-3:00p.m. but Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

children can be dropped off as early as 7:00a.m. Extended day is offered until 5:30p.m. Program focuses on school readiness with Christian teachings. Gulf Shores United Methodist Church Preschool and Mother’s Day Out Director: Lana Crawford Address: 1900 Gulf Shores Pkwy, Gulf Shores Phone: 968-4328 Website: www.gulfshoresumc.org Email: lana@gulfshoresumc.org Registration begins in March for children who are ages 1-4 as of September 1st of the current school year. Hours are 9a.m.2:45p.m. Heavenly Sent Learning Center Inc. Director: Arlene Trotter Address: 12710 County Rd 65, Foley Phone: 970-3324 Ongoing registration for children ages 6 weeks through 14 years. Hours are 6 a.m.6 p.m. Hermes Enchanted Garden Home Daycare Located in Daphne near Hwy 90 and I-10. Call 251.269.0022.

Holy Spirit Episcopal Day School Director: Barbara Coats Address: 616 Fort Morgan Rd, Gulf Shores Phone: 968-5219 Website: www.hseds616.com Email: hseds616@gmail.com Day school for children ages 2-4. Hours 8:30-2:30 with extended care available. Jubilee Early Child Development Center Director: Heather Bankester Address: 8930 Spanish Ft Blvd., Spanish Fort Phone: 625-1234 Open Registration year around. Ages 8wks - PreK4. Full Time with limited part-time program now available. Call for more information. Jubilee Head Start Center Director: Mrs. Porter Address: 24044 Highway 98, Montrose Phone: 928-9193 caaofsa.org Ongoing registration for ages 3-5 years. Hours 8:30a.m.-2:30p.m. Jubilee Shores WeeSchool Director: Amber Jones Address: 17261 State Hwy 181, Fairhope

Phone: 929-0829 www.jubileeshores.net Email: amberjones@jubileeshores.net Registration for Fall begins in February. Call for details. Ages 1 – 5. Half day program with aftercare available. Kid’s Kabin Daycare Director: Lynnette Locke Address: 27730 Main Street, Daphne Phone: 626-1256 Open Registration year around. Ages 2 years - 6 yrs. Full and Half days available. Kid Plus Child Development Center Director: Christie Steigerwald Address: 90 S Bay St, Foley, Phone: 970-1566 Website: www.kidplus.biz Email: csteigerwald@gulftel.com Ongoing registration for children ages 6 weeks through 11 years. Hours 6a.m.6p.m. Kids First Director: Andrea Overstreet Address: 18109 US Highway 98, Foley Phone: 971-3202 Kidz Learning Center Director: Stacey Bain

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Address: 1074 N Hickory St, Loxley Phone: 964-4200 Ongoing registration for infants 6 weeks through children 12 years. Hours are 6a.m.-5:30p.m. No registration fee.

Lake Forest Christian Academy Director: Amber Hollinger and Deshunda Robinson Address: 28848 North Main St, Daphne Phone: 625-2672 Open Registration year around. Ages 6 wks - 12 yrs. Full and Half day available.

Lighthouse Baptist Day Care Address: 18055 County Rd 64, Loxley Phone: 960-1800 Website: lighthousebaptist-loxley.com Ongoing registration for ages 6 months through 4 years. Hours are 6:30a.m.5:30p.m. Little Beginnings Christian Director: Margaret Troha Address: 13672 County Rd 55, Foley Phone: 965-9096 Ongoing registration for preschool programs for children ages 1-5years. Hours are 7:30a.m-5:30p.m. Convenient to Magnolia Elementary School Little Crusaders Learning Center Director: Amber Mitchell Address: 9023 Lawson Road, Daphne Phone: 621-6363 Open Registration year around. Ages 6 wks – 12 years. After-school care available. Little Learners Kiddie School Liberty Church Address: 22380 US Hwy 98, Foley Phone: 923-7602 Ongoing registration for preschool ages 1-5. Hours 6:30a.m.-5:30p.m.

Magnolia Springs Head Start Director: Charlene McClellan Address: 13024 County Rd 26, Foley Phone: 965-7937 Website: caaofsa.org Ongoing registration for ages 3-5 years. Hours 8:30a.m.-2:30p.m. Milestone Child Care Center, LLC Director: Judy Pfeiffer Address: 1074 S Cypress St, Loxley Phone: 960-1616 Meals and snacks provided. Providing care for children ages 6 weeks through 12 years. Hours are 6:30a.m.-5:30p.m. Mrs. Robin’s Playhouse Director: Robin Gruber Phone: 677-4141 Location: Robertsdale, AL Learn through play in an environment based on family and faith. Ages newborn to 5 years. DHR licensed, health, fire and safety inspected, CPR/First Aid certified. Mrs. Robin is also a licensed social worker with more than 20 years experience. My Girl Friday Nanny Services. Licensed, bonded and class trained. GRMCA certified. Elderly care also available. 251-279-7079 or 251533-2269. Visit the website at www.mygirlfridaynow.weebly.com New Life Assembly of God Director: Brenda Smith Address: 10442 Old Hwy 31, Spanish Fort Phone: 656-3535 Official Registration begins in April– call the director for more information. Ages 18months - 4 yrs. Half Day program Monday, Wednesday and Friday, 9am-1pm.

Loving Care Children’s Center Director: Karen Dees Address:10142 County Road 64, Daphne Phone: 626-1855 Website: www.lovingcare2.com Open Registration year around. Ages 6 wks - 6 yrs. Full and Half days available.

Open Door Christian Child Care Director: Theresa Gilley Address: 20774 County Rd 12 S, Foley Phone: 943-1693 Website: opendoorchurchfoley.com Enter to grow in wisdom…depart to better serve. Applications being accepted for infants age 6 weeks and up through 3 year olds. PK 4 through 12th Grade offered through Open Door Christian School. Child Care hours are from 6a.m.-6p.m.

Loxley First Baptist - A Christian Learning Center Address: 1050 N. Alabama Street, Loxley Phone: 251-964-5700 Wee Learn Curriculum, 6 weeks - 6th grade, Full Time, Open enrollment

Precious Moments Learning Center Director: Monica Pierce Address: 1900 Oak St, Foley Phone: 943-4399 Ongoing registration for children ages 6 weeks through 15 years. Hours are from 6a.m.-7p.m.

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Preschool ParkmChristian Life Church Director: Elaine Prosser Address: 25550 Canal Rd, Orange Beach Phone: 967-1959 Website: christianlifechurch.tv Excellent childcare with a biblical basis. Ongoing registration for ages 6 months – 4 years. Preschool hours are 8:30-2:30 with early morning and after care available. Robertsdale First Baptist Preschool Director: Teresa Bryant Address: 18200 Hwy 104, Robertsdale Phone: 979-5621 Registration accepted year round. K2, K3 and K4 – 5K. Monday, Tuesday and Wednesday from 8:20am – 1:20pm. Abeka Curriculum. $65 Registration; $190/month Saint Benedict Catholic School Principal: Jaivi Howell Address: 12786 Illinois St, Elberta Phone: 986-8143 Website: www.saintbenedict.net Email: rkrehling@saintbenedict.net Registration begins in February for Fall of 2013 for PK3-8th Grade students. School day is from 7:45a.m.-3p.m. with extended day offered until 5:30p.m.

St. Patrick’s Church Principal: Sr. Margaret Harte Address: 23070 Hwy 59 N, Robertsdale Phone 947-7395 Website: www.gulftel.com/stpatsch Email: stpatsch@gulftel.com Preparing students to “be God’s light in the world” since 1979. Open House is January 27th from 1p.m.-3p.m. and open registration begins January 28th. Serving grades PK3-8th from 7:45a.m.-3:00p.m. Extended day is available until 5:30p.m. Spanish Fort Preschool Academy Director: Stephanie Wilson Address: 9543 Stagecoach Commercial Park Circle, Spanish Fort Phone: 625-4042 Email: stephaniewilson@sfpacademy.com Registration for Summer and Fall 2013 is Friday Feb. 8, 2013 from 8:30am 11:30am. Spanish Fort UMC Preschool Director: Josie Free Address: 6530 Spanish Ft Blvd, Spanish Fort Phone: 626-1380 Open registration begins February 3.

Call for specific dates - Ages 5 months - 4 yrs. Half Day program Swift Church Christian Preschool Address: 23208 Swift Church Road, Foley Phone: 943-8367 Director: Lori Larkin Christian education for Kindergarten readiness.1 year - 5 years, Mon - Fri, 7am-5:30pm. Open Enrollment. The Neighborhood School Director: Carriann Tombes Address: 26481a Kensington Pl, Daphne Phone: 626-0074 Please call for registration information. Ages infant through Pre-K. Full day and half day programs available. Victory Daycare Academy Victory Life Church Director: Gayle Griffith Address: 20511 County Rd 12 S, Foley Phone: 943-7684 Website: www.victorylifechurch.net Early education with fundamental values. Serving children ages 6 weeks through 4 years. Hours are 6:30a.m.6:00p.m. ESP

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Board Certified in Allergy and Immunology 7101 Highway 90, Suite 201 Daphne, AL 36526 (251) 625-1370

www.lungmds.com Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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The Adventures In Math and Science summer program is an academic-oriented summer camp for rising 7th-10th graders.

AIMS 2013

Don’t waste your summer! Spend it at the AIMS Summer Camp at the Alabama School of Math and Science! Learn while you have fun! Kayak Mobile Bay. Design a maze. Build a smart phone app. Solve a crime. Prepare for the ACT. Learn how to make jewelry. Build a robot. Launch a rocket...and much more! AIMS will run for two sessions! Session 1 (June 3-7) is an overnight or day camp. Session 2 (June 10-14) is an overnight or day camp. Who can enroll? Students entering the 7th, 8th, 9th, and 10th grades.

Tuition

Applications, more information, and course descriptions are online at www.asms.net.

Course Sampling Photoshop, So You Want to be an MD?, Math Games, Marine Biology, Robotics, Alchemy of Harry Potter, Codes and Ciphers, Smart Phone Apps, CSI: Mobile, Labs of Doom, Geometry, Cyber Security, Weird Food Science, The American West through Film, ACT Prep, Painting, Field Biology for Beginners, American Sign Language, PHUN Physics, Amazing Mazes, Rocketry, Engineering the Future, Etiquette for the Modern Girl, Psychology, Rock ‘N’ Roll History, Jewelry Design, & many more...

What is ASMS?

Tuition for overnight camp is $375 per week and is allinclusive. Tuition for day camp is $275 and includes lunch. The cost to stay the weekend between Sessions 1 and 2 is an additional $175 (includes trip to water park). Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Applications

Located in Mobile, ASMS is the state’s only fully residential and public high school for highly motivated sophomores, juniors, and seniors. 59

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Public Library Activities Daphne Public Library

Fairhope Public Library

2607 US Hwy 98 251-621-2818

501 Fairhope Ave. 251-928-7483

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Hours Monday - Thursday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m., Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Hours Monday & Tuesday 9 a.m. - 8 p.m. Wednesday 1 - 6 p.m. Thursday 9 a.m.- 8 p.m. Friday 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Saturday 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Storytimes, Activities, & Crafts

Lapsit (ages 2 and under), Tuesdays 10:30 a.m. Preschoolers (ages 2-5), Wed. 2 p.m., Thurs. 10:30 School Age Story Time (ages 5-8), Thursdays 10:30 a.m. After School Kids Story Time Thursdays 3:45 p.m. Santa Stories. Thurs., Dec. 13, 5-7 p.m. Hear Santa read stories, drink cocoa, eat cookies. Bring your camera! Christmas Gift Make and Take Session. Fri., Dec. 14, 12-5 p.m. Rock in the New Year Rock painting for children. Fri., Jan. 11.

Storytimes and Activities

Lapsit Storytime (ages 2 & under with caregiver present) Mondays and Thursdays, 10 a.m. Preschool Storytime (ages 3-5 with caregiver present) Mondays and Thursdays, 11 a.m. Scratch Club (Ages 8-12) Tuesdays, 4 - 5 p.m. Tweens are invited to enjoy animation building, stories, and games! Tween Tuesdays (Ages 9-11) Tuesdays, 4 p.m. Teen Night (13 & Up) Mondays, 4:30 p.m. Teen Program (Ages 12+) 4:30-5:30 p.m. Teens can enjoy awesome activities geared for their age group. Mondays and Thursdays. Spanish Storytime - Saturdays, 10:30 – 11:15 a.m. Join Ms. Carolina for Spanish Story Time in the Youth Activity Room.

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Daphne Teens

Teen Advisory Board Meetings - 2nd Tuesdays, 3:45 – 4:45 p.m. The Daphne Teen Book Club - Thursdays from 3:45 – 4:45 p.m.

Adults

Jubilee Book Club – 3rd Wed. of every month, 10 a.m. Mystery Book Club – 2nd Thurs. of every month, 6:30 p.m. Library Board Meeting – 1st Thurs. of every month, 4 p.m. Craft Exchange & Tutorials – 1st Thurs. of every month, 5 p.m. Local History Forum – 1st Wed. of every month, 2 p.m. GED Classes – Every Mon. and Wed. at 4:30 p.m., hosted by Faulkner State Junior College.

www.fairhopepubliclibrary.org

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Library Orange Beach Public Library 26267 Canal Road 251-980-2360 Hours Monday, Tuesday, Friday 9-6 Wednesday, Thursday 9-8 Saturday 9-3

Storytimes and Activities

• Preschool Storytime, every Tuesday, 10 a.m.

KYM THURMAN

WATCH

WORKING MOMS

TUESDAYS ON LOCAL 15

TODAY

• Download books & more... The Digital Bookmobile will be at the library on Nov. 6 & 7 from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Featuring Gadget Gallery with Kindle, iPod touch, Android, Nook, and more; interactive computer stations; instructional videos. www. digitalbookmobile.com

Foley Public Library 319 East Laurel Avenue 251-943-7665 Hours Monday - Wednesday 9-8 Thursday - 1-8 Friday - 9-5 Saturday - 9-5

Storytimes

Tuesdays and Wednesdays 10 a.m. (Wednesdays are repeat programs) We have approximately 30 minutes of great fun for pre-school age children, their parents, grandparents and caregivers! We read a book together, have a short time for crafts or special events (such as Halloween, Fire Prevention Week, Christmas, Easter, etc...) and learn to love reading! Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Live Your Life’s Dream New year, New goals by Heidi Smith Luedtke, Ph.D.

The fundamental truth of parenting is that kids grow up fast. And so do parents. Days spent feeding babies and changing diapers give way to carpool and homework in the blink of an eye. Before you know it, you’re mailing college care packages. Time may pass slowly on any given day. It is the weeks, months, and years that whiz by. The New Year offers a blank page in your book of time, brimming with all the promise and opportunity of what is yet to be. Now is the time to take stock, re-energize, and forge ahead boldly. Your dream life is waiting for you to create it.

What’s Stopping You?

How long has it been since you thought about what you really want in life, about what brings you joy, challenge, and satisfaction? “Parenting is all-consuming,” says Todd Kashdan, PhD, Associate Professor of Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Psychology at George Mason University and author of Curious? Discover the Missing Ingredient of a Fulfilling Life (2009, Morrow). “We sometimes forget our own interests and focus exclusively on kids’ needs and wants.” Mothers especially may struggle to find time for their own development. Studies show women have only 41 minutes a day to pursue goals that matter, says Caroline Adams Miller, MAPP, a Bethesda, Maryland, life coach and author of Creating Your Best Life: The Ultimate Life List Guide (2009, Sterling). It’s no wonder men surpass women in happiness by their late 40s. But it doesn’t have to be that way. One way to identify areas for growth is to envision your best possible self in great detail, suggests Miller. Imagine you are looking back on your life in your old age and everything has gone as well as possible. Where have you been? What have you done? What makes you proud? Indulge in 62

“sky-is-the-limit” thinking and put pen to paper. Let your dreams come to life on the page. The most fulfilling experiences are those that align with your deeply held personal values, says Kashdan. If you feel out of touch with what matters most or can’t prioritize among many good things, don’t bumble ahead without clarifying what you want. Identify your top values and priorities through some serious soul-searching or using psychological tests. When you know what you care most about, it is easier to make choices about how to spend your most valuable currency: time and energy. Perhaps you know what you want but haven’t made it happen…yet. Fear may have prevented you from setting bold goals and moving toward them in the past. Or maybe you put your dreams on hold until the kids are bigger. Delaying your dreams is a kind of denial. It keeps you from taking scary risks, Advertising: 251-929-2099

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but it may lead a back seat The best goals are to regrets, cauto everyday challenging and specific. tions Miller. errands. As Studies show A weak goal might be to “be more much as people are possible, do sociable.” A stronger goal would something more likely to regret the be to “make twelve new friends every day to things they did closer in the next six months.” Don’t move not do than to your goals. be tempted to set vague or easy Keep a journal, to regret risks that didn’t goals. Achieving mediocre goals spreadsheet, work out. Let or star chart will only make you feel mediocre. to track your yourself be drawn in by progress. High the energy of possibility. The biggest risks achievers monitor their growth and change often bring the biggest rewards. their approach if they aren’t seeing results, says Miller.

Making Dreams a Reality

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Resolutions, goals, and personal mission statements can help you achieve your dreams. And you should express your intentions in writing, says Miller. Putting dreams in writing makes them real and pre-commits you to a course of action. That makes you accountable to yourself, so you will be less likely to forget your goals or push them aside when obstacles arise. Whether you choose to author a bucket list of “100 things you want to do before you die” or to commit to only a few truly audacious goals is up to you. The best goals are challenging and specific, counsels Miller. A weak goal might be to “be more sociable.” A stronger goal would be to “make twelve new friends in the next six months.” Don’t be tempted to set vague or easy goals. Achieving mediocre goals will only make you feel mediocre, says Miller. Setting and attaining challenging goals builds self-efficacy – the belief that you have what it takes to accomplish your dreams. People with strong self-efficacy beliefs are more likely to take action and to be persistent when they encounter setbacks. They have learned from experience that hard work pays off. When challenges arise, they redouble their efforts or find alternate paths to their goals. They possess unwavering optimism and gritty determination. Think of these qualities (optimism, self-efficacy, and determination) as your mental and emotional muscles – the more you exercise them, the stronger they become. Seemingly impossible goals are achievable if you break them down into smaller sub-goals and then do something to achieve them. Identify specific actions you can take to move you closer to your goals. Schedule actions on the calendar so they don’t take

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

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Your Dream Life Starts Now

Don’t wait until you achieve your dreams to start living fully. With the right attitude, you can fast-track feelings of fulfillment. Notice what is going right in your life and be grateful. Write a list of your blessings, express your appreciation out loud or send thank-you cards and letters. A grateful attitude boosts your mood and sets a positive tone for growth, says Miller. Practice grateful habits daily. Be open to exploration, too. When you choose to approach life with a curious attitude, you are energized, attentive, and engaged, says Kashdan. If you are stuck in a rut, take a cue from your kids. Seek out new things. When you hear a song you love, download it. Listen to it over and over if you want. Put some new items in your grocery cart this week, even if you are unsure how you’ll cook them. Go online to find recipes. Collect items that inspire you. Keep them in a special, secret place. The well-lived life is built from a series of well-lived moments, says Kashdan. As you focus on living well, you may become impatient with distractions and impediments. You have to stop spending time with people who are energy vampires, Kashdan says. Emotions are contagious. Surround yourself with people who give you energy and self-confidence. This year, set impossible goals. Take concrete action steps toward their fulfillment. Be afraid – on a regular basis, Miller encourages. Your dream life is right there, just beyond your comfort zone. ESP Heidi Smith Luedtke is a personality psychologist and mom of two. She shares psychology lessons for real life at heidiluedtke.com

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Family Calendar Ongoing

American Sport Art Museum and Archives Located on the campus of the United States Sports Academy in Daphne, dedicated to the preservation of sports history, art, and literature. Exhibits spotlight visiting artists on a rotating basis, as well as our permanent collection of prints, sculpture, original paintings, photographs and other arts media. Free admission. Hours are 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Friday. 1 Academy Drive, Daphne. For more information call 251.626.3303 or visit www.asama.org. Big Brother / Big Sister Mentors Needed At-risk children at Summerdale School need volunteer Big Brother Big Sister mentors. “Bigs” have fun with a child one time a week, for one hour, on school grounds, during the school year by reading a story, working puzzles, playing catch, drawing, or just being a friend. Professional training and support are provided by Big Brothers Big Sisters of South Alabama YMCA, Inc. For more information or to volunteer, contact Polly at 251-344-0536 ext. 104. Eastern Shore Art Center A non-profit arts organization located in beautiful downtown Fairhope. The Art Center houses four galleries with exhibits that change monthly, as well as a gallery featuring member artists’ work for sale. Admission is free. 401 Oak Street, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928.2228 or visit www. easternshoreartcenter.com. The Exploreum • IMAX Film: Born To Be Wild Showing now thru January 5. Follow young orphaned elephants and orangutans on the trip of a lifetime, from birth to their rebirth into the wild. This family friendly documentary will transport moviegoers around the world to the far stretches of Kenya and Borneo and will inspire them to take action and save earth’s precious creatures. Narrated by Morgan Freeman, this film documents orphaned orangutans and elephants and the extraordinary people who rescue and raise them—saving endangered species one life at a time. The film has been rated G and has a run time of 40 minutes. Tues-Sat at 10 a.m., noon, 1, 3, and 4 p.m. Closed New Year’s Day. General admission IMAX tickets $8.75 for adults, $7.25 for youth and seniors, and $6.50 for children. Members receive discounts. General admission to the Exploreum: Adults (19 59)/ $14; Youth (13 - 18) & Senior Citizens (60+)/ $12.50; Children/ $12. Combo tickets include a viewing of an IMAX film: $18; $17; $15.50. The Exploreum is open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday from 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday from noon until 5 p.m. For tickets or more information visit www.exploreum.com or call 251208-6873. 65 Government Street, Mobile. Fairhope Museum of History The museum is full of artifacts from old Fairhope. You can see displays on Clay City, the Single Tax Association and the Civil War. You can also see personal belongings from some of Fairhope’s first families. The museum is located in downtown Fairhope at 24 North Section Street. The museum is open Monday - Saturday from 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. For more information, call 929-1474. Marietta Johnson Museum This museum was founded to preserve the oldest school building in Baldwin Country, which was founded in 1907 by famed educator Marietta Johnson. Known as one of the first progressive

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

January2013

schools in the world, the museum includes historic letters, documents, and artifacts from the school’s heyday, as well as biographical information about Marietta Johnson. To learn more, visit www. mariettajohnson.org. Open Mondays-Fridays from 1 p.m. – 5 p.m. Admission is free. 440 Fairhope Ave. 990-8601. Weeks Bay National Estuarine Research Reserve The Weeks Bay Reserve has a free educational interpretive center and two boardwalks. The Interpretive Center houses a multitude of exhibits, habitat models, specimen collections and a diorama giving the visitor a better understanding about the value of estuaries, diversity of coastal wetlands, and a close-up look at living plants and animals of coastal Alabama. Admission is free. Hours are Monday – Saturday 8 a.m. – 5 p.m. and Sunday 1 to 5 p.m. 11300 US Highway 98, Fairhope. For more information call 251.928-9792 or visit www. weeksbay.org.

Classes/Meetings

Alabama Pre/Post Adoption Connections (APAC) Offering Adoptive Family Support Group Meetings in Baldwin County the 3rd Monday of each month. The meeting is held at Eastern Shore Church of Christ, 1209 Daphne Ave, in Daphne from 6-7:30 p.m. Parent, Youth/Teen group and childcare is available. Topic discussions by adoption professionals and ceu’s for foster families are offered. For more information call 251-460-2727 or 1-800489-1886 or www.childrensaid.org. APAC also offers free counseling services to adoptive families. Celebration MOPS Fairhope A new MOPS group has been formed that meets on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays from 9 a.m. – 11 a.m. at Celebration Church, 8180 Dyer Road, Fairhope. Childcare is provided and is included in the fees. There is an annual $23.95 MOPS International membership fee and $5/meeting. Check us out on Facebook at Celebration MOPS Fairhope or contact coordinator Lauren Beck at celebrationmopsfairhope@gmail.com. Fairhope MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers) We meet 9:30 a.m. - 11:30 a.m. every 2nd & 4th Monday at Fairhope United Methodist Church. All mothers of young children are welcome. Email fairhopemops@yahoo.com for more info. Moonlight Chasse’ Ballroom Dance Society Dance lessons from 7 – 7:30 p.m., and Dancing from 7:30 – 10 p.m., first and third Monday of every month, at Fitzpen Place, 1 mile east of Eastern Shore Mall. No partner necessary. $10 per person includes dance lesson. $7 with membership, includes dance lesson. Live music, cash bar. www.FitzpenPlace. com. www.Moonlightchasse.com. For more information, call 251-621-6665 or 251-377-4069. MOPS on the Eastern Shore We meet at Faith Family Fellowship in Spanish Fort on the 2nd Thursday of each month, from 9:30 - 11:30 a.m. The evening meeting meets on the first Thursday night of the month from 6 - 8 p.m. September through May. MOPS is designed to nurture mothers and it is for all mothers from all walks of life who have children birth through K-5. Each meeting provides an inviting environment where women can come - just as they are - to build friendships, be encouraged, gain practical parenting strategies and have fun all while their children are lovingly cared for in the MOPPETS program. A

typical meeting includes sharing a meal together, listening to a speaker that is of interest to mothers with young children, participating in a roundtable discussion, or doing a creative craft project. The children’s program includes care for infants as well as classes for toddlers through kindergarten. There will be regularly schedule playdates during the year as well. New website: http://mopsontheeasternshore. shutterfly.com/ . PUMC Caregiver Support Group A new support group for caregivers of aging parents and others is discussing “boundaries” at monthly meetings open to the community. The public is invited to be a part of this support group, which meets monthly at Providence UMC, located between Spanish Fort High School and Middle School at 32200 Jimmy Faulkner Dr. For more information about the new support group, call the church office at (251) 626-2510 or email pumc.office@bellsouth. net. For more information about Providence UMC, call the church office or visit the website at www. providencemethodist.org. The Responsible Fatherhood Program (RFP) Part of a nationwide effort to support fathers in the important and special role they play in the life of a child. Quenching the Father Thirst class held Mondays from 5:30-7:30 p.m., 12-wk rotating series (begin at any time once intake is complete) at The Family Center of Baldwin County, 27365 Pollard Rd, Daphne. Case management services also offered. Family Time supervised visitation coming soon. Call 251-626-1610 for more information and to take classes in Daphne. RFP classes require intake appt. IN ADVANCE. www.familycentermobile.org or www.Facebook.com/FatherhoodMobile. Services available to all eligible persons regardless of race, gender, age, disability or religion. All classes at The Family Center in Mobile and Daphne are free and offer free childcare WITH 24-HR RESERVATION. Shepherd’s Place (Christian Life Center) Ministry for memory & physically challenged. Mondays & Wednesdays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m., Tuesdays & Thursdays 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Fairhope United Methodist Church, 155 South Section Street, Fairhope. 928-1148. Tango by the Bay ~ Argentine Basic classes are held every Tuesday from 7:30 – 9:30 p.m. in Fairhope at Southern Edge Dance Studio, located behind Pizza Hut across from Thomas Hospital. 251 South Greeno, Fairhope. $5 per class (fee may be higher with special guest instructors). For more information Contact Ben Samel at 605-2657 or Cassie Fishbein 377-4069, cassief13@aol.com.

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South Baldwin Regional Medical Center offers the following classes: Your entire family can take part in several informative classes designed to help moms and dads welcome their special new addition to the family with more confidence. Classes cover topics including: Having A Healthy Pregnancy Nutrition, discomforts of pregnancy, warning signs of complications, and relaxation exercises. One session. Cost: $10. Prepared Childbirth Classes (Once a week for four weeks). Cost: $30 Week 1: Begin the Stages of Labor: The labor and delivery process, signs and stages of labor, options for coping, pain management, vaginal delivery, and relaxation exercises.

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Week 2: Delivery and Cesarean Birth: A review of complications that may arise, use of special equipment, complete the stages of labor, cesarean delivery, and relaxation exercises. Week 3: New Born and Postpartum Care: Newborn appearance, caring for the newborn, infant safety, recognizing complications, relaxation exercises, and choosing a pediatrician. What to expect after delivery, understanding the physical and emotional changes to your body, and relaxation exercises. Week 4: The Art of Breast Feeding: The benefits of breast feeding for mother and baby, anatomy and physiology of the breast, how to breastfeed, and common difficulties. One session. • Tiny Toes members may enroll in Yoga, Water Aerobics and Expectant Mother Exercise classes through the Snook Family YMCA. The fee is $5 a class. There is a $3 fee for child care. There is no fee if you are already a member of the YMCA. All classes are located at South Baldwin Regional Medical Center–1613 North McKenzie Street Foley. Tuesday evenings 6:30-8:30 p.m. Classroom A. Located just off of the main lobby. • Please plan to attend the Healthy Pregnancy Class during your first trimester and the Prepared Childbirth Classes anytime after your 24th week of pregnancy. For more information or to enroll please call the OB Educator at 949-3676 to schedule. We look forward to sharing this special time with you! Method of payment accepted: Visa, Master Card, Discover, AmEx, Debit Card Gift of Life The Gift of Life is a required maternity care program for Medicaid patients or Medicaid-eligible patients. The Gift of Life Program provides a caring system of prenatal services; education and care coordination for expectant moms and their babies. For additional information please contact 949-3781. Thomas Hospital offers the following classes: Breastfeeding Class  Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Monthly, first Tuesday, 6-8 p.m.  Free. Infant CPR and Safety Class  Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope). Pre-registration required.  To register call 279-1373.  Saturdays, 4-6 p.m.  Moving Through Labor Childbirth Classes Three or four-week prepared childbirth class series which prepares the mother-to-be and her support partner for the labor and delivery experience. $30 fee for the class series. Thomas Fitness Center, (Fairhope)   Mondays, 6:30-8:30 p.m. Thomas Fitness Center (Fairhope) Saturdays, 9 a.m.-3 p.m.  Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Tuesdays, 6-8:30 p.m.  Thomas Medical Center (Daphne) Thursdays, 6-8 p.m. Pre-registration required. Call 251- 279-1373 or visit www.thomashospital.com for upcoming classes and registration. Natural Childbirth Classes, Fertility Awareness, Mother’s Comfort, Exercise and Nutrition For class schedule or more information call Geralyn Piizzotti, 251- 928-9396. Yourbodyyourbirth@ bellsouth.net. Newborn Basics Class Held on the second Monday of every month from 6 – 8 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Free. No Pre-registration required. Pre-admission Sessions 6 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center in Daphne. Preregistration required.   Sibling Class

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

Thomas Hospital Fitness Center (Fairhope).  Preregistration required.  To register call 279-1373.  1011 a.m.   Thomas Hospital offers the following support groups for the community: Alanon (Alcoholics Anonymous) Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 800-4771104 for more information. Alateen Meetings are held every Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room East Tower meeting room at Thomas Hospital. Call 391-1152 for more information. Alzheimer’s Support Group Meetings are held on the first Wednesday of every month from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 345-7645 or 438-9590 for more information. ALS Support Group Meetings are held on the second Thursday of every month from 11 a.m. to noon at Thomas Medical Center. Call 205-937-4415 for more information. Bosom Buddies Breast Cancer Support Group Meetings are held on the second Monday of each month from noon to 1 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Health Resource Center located at: 308 S. Greeno Road, Fairhope. Call 928-8650 for more information. Cancer Support Group-Family Connected by Ribbons Support group for cancer survivors, friends and family. Open to any types of cancer. Every first Thursday of every month from 6 - 8 p.m. Morphy Conference Room (Old ER entrance) at Thomas Hospital, Fairhope. Preregistration not required. Call 209-1229 for more information. Cancer Support Group for Women Meetings are held the first Thursday of every month from 6 to 8 p.m. in the Morphy Conference Room. For more information, call Patti Huval at 209-1229. Diabetes Support Group Meetings are held on the first Tuesday of every month from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Thomas Hospital Diabetes Center. Call 279-1700 for more information. National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Support Group Meetings are held every Thursday night from 6:30 to 8 p.m. at The Harbor at Thomas Hospital. Call 251965-6264 for more information. Parkinson’s Support Group Meetings are held on the third Tuesday of every month from noon to 1 p.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 455-9919 for more information. Traumatic Brain Injury and Spinal Cord Support Group Meetings are held on the first Thursday of each month from 10 to 11 a.m. at Thomas Medical Center. Call 251- 626-6337 for more information.

Tuesday, January 1

Orange Beach Polar Bear Dip Flora-Bama—Celebrate with a dip in the Gulf of Mexico and then enjoy New Year festivities complete with traditional black-eyed peas. 251-980-5118. Live Bluegrass, Gospel and Classic Country Music at Wales West Tuesdays and Fridays 7-9 p.m. Located on Co. Rd. 9 outside Silverhill, 1.5 mi. south of 48 and 2.5 mi. north of 32. $5 donation, free refreshments and train ride. Great music and fellowship. 1-888-569-5337. www.waleswest.com. IMAX Film: Born to Be Wild Documentary about the orphaned orangutans and elephants, and the extraordinary people who rescue

and raise them—saving endangered species one life at a time. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, JL Bedsole IMAX Theater (65 Government St.) TueSat, 10 a.m., noon, 1, 3 & 4 p.m. Members: adults (19-59)/ $6.75; youth (13-18) and seniors (60+)/ $5.75; children (2-12)/ $5.25; Nonmembers: Adults (19-59)/ $8.75; youth (13-18) and seniors (59+)/ $7.25; children (2-12)/$6.50. 251-208-6880. www.exploreum.com/ www.imax.com/borntobewild Film: Santa Vs. The Snowman An animated holiday comedy. Gulf Coast Exploreum Science Center, JL Bedsole IMAX Dome Theater (65 Government St.) 11 a.m. & 2 p.m. Members: Adults (19 - 59)/ $6.75; youth (13 - 18) & senior citizens (60+)/ $5.75; children (2- 12)/ $5.25; Nonmembers: Adults (19 - 59)/ $8.75; youth (13 - 18) & senior citizens (60+)/ $7.25; children (2 - 12)/ $6.50.   251-208-6873. www.exploreum.com.

Wednesday, January 2

Library Book Sale All hardback books only $1 and paperbacks $.50. There’s an opportunity to “stuff a box” for $5. Magnolia Springs Public Library. 251-965-2305. IMAX Film: Born to Be Wild See January 1 for details. Film: Santa Vs. The Snowman See January 1 for details.

Thursday, January 3

Teen Study Hall-Fairhope Library Teens ages 13 and up can come and use the Activity room for study groups or homework help. Every Thursday from 4 -7 p.m. 929.1465 www.fairhopelibrary.org. Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library Children 2 & under and their caregivers are invited to join us for songs, stories and fingerplays in the Youth Activity Room. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 -10:20 a.m. 929-1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library Preschoolers age 3-5 and their caregivers are invited to join us for stories and crafts in the Youth Activity Room. Tuesdays and Thursdays from 11 a.m.-noon. 929-1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org. IMAX Film: Born to Be Wild See January 1 for details. Film: Santa Vs. The Snowman See January 1 for details.

Friday, January 4

Creating Cards The first Saturday of each month at Magnolia Springs Public Library, at 12:30, Mrs. Melanie O’Donnell will be teaching us how to make professional looking cards. January will be a New Year’s Card, of course! Due to limited space the first 12 people--young people and/or adults---who call to reserve a space will be able to enjoy this fabulous event. Call 251965-2305 or email magnoliaspringslibrary@gmail.com. Fairhope First Friday Art Walk Artsy and fun-filled night with an evening of exhibit opening, guest artists and live entertainment. Refreshments at participating galleries and downtown businesses. 6-8 p.m. Contact: 928-2228/ www.esartcenter.com. Live Bluegrass, Gospel & Classic Country Music at Wales West See January 1 for details.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Family Calendar First Friday Author Round-Up at Page & Palette In 1795 New Orleans, the Spanish controlled city struggles to rebuild after two devastating fires, and a young teenage girl is just as determined to leave her past behind and start anew...F. J. Wilson, author of Celestine: The House on Rue Du Maine will be at Fairhope’s own Page & Palette at 6 p.m. IMAX Film: Born to Be Wild See January 1 for details. Film: Santa Vs. The Snowman See January 1 for details.

Saturday, January 5

Mobile Greer’s/Press Register Mardi Gras Parade The GMAC Bowl presents Mobile’s largest Mardi Gras parade with floats from 20 mystical societies, marching bands and cheerleaders from each participating university, and several local marching bands. The skies of Mobile will be filled with beads, candy, souvenirs, doubloons and moon pies. 6:30 p.m. Downtown Mobile. www.godaddybowl.com / Sherrie Dyal 635-0011, sherrie@gmacbowl.com. Live Bluegrass, Gospel & Classic Country Music at Wales West See January 1 for details. IMAX Film: Born to Be Wild See January 1 for details. Film: Santa Vs. The Snowman See January 1 for details.

Sunday, January 6 5 Rivers Sunday Matinee

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Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week we dive into the world of ducks in An Original DUCKumentary. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www.Alabama5Rivers.com, 251-625-0814. GoDaddy.com Bowl Kent State University will face Arkansas State University in the 14th annual GoDaddy.com Bowl game at Ladd-Peebles Stadium in Mobile at 8 p.m. Shuttle services are available and advised as parking at Ladd-Peebles Stadium is limited. The matchup between a Sun Belt Conference team and a Mid-American Conference team will be broadcast nationwide on ESPN and aired on the College Football Radio Network. www.godaddybowl.com.

Monday, January 7

Teen Book Club-Daphne Public Library Teen group chooses great books to read and discuss on Monday afternoons. 3:45-4:45 p.m. 621-2818. www.daphnelibrary.org. Teen Book Club-Fairhope Public Library All Teens welcome to join the book club. 4-5:30 p.m. 929-1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org.

Tuesday, January 8

5 Rivers StoryTime The 1st and 3rd Tuesday of every month is StoryTime at 5 Rivers. Children under the age of 6 are welcome to stop by for a free reading of a nature based story followed by arts and crafts. This week we make our New Year’s Resolution with Squirrel

in “Squirrel’s New Year’s Resolution” by Pat Miller. 10-11 a.m. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www. Alabama5Rivers.com, 251-625-0814. Foley Snowbird Reception Enjoy a walk through Foley and play bingo for free gifts. Foley Civic Center--Free coffee and doughnuts. 9 a.m.-noon. 943-1300. www.visitfoley.org. 5 Rivers Outdoor Adventure Night Free, everyone welcome. Meet and mingle with local outdoor enthusiasts and enjoy monthly programs. Hunter’s Education Course 6-9 p.m. (registration required, call 626-5474); Mobile Bay Audubon Society, 6:30-8:30 p.m. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www.Alabama5Rivers.com, 251625-0814. Eastern Shore Chamber Eggs N’ Issues Lee Lawson, Director of the Baldwin County Economic Development Alliance will provide an update on Economic Development in Baldwin County at Daphne United Methodist Church Community Life Center, 2401 N. Main St., Daphne. $10 members / $15 potential members, includes hot breakfast. 8:30 a.m. Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Afterschool Storytime & Art Hour-Fairhope Library Children ages 5 through ten will enjoy a story or two followed by a craft, usually relating to the literature. Parents must accompany and work with their children in attendance. Every Tuesday from 4-5 p.m. 929-1465. www.fairhopelibrary.org.

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Riverview Reﬁnement, Program, Campﬁres night,Recognized optional trips and more! We’ve put together everythingCIT you’re looking for in a perfect every camp setting! as one of the Southeast’s best all-around summer camps for girls, Riverview is an oasis of fun, friends and happiness. Spring and Fall &available 2 week Sessions ages to 16... Mother-Daughter Weekends1are also! Registeredfor Nurses and6 Physician on Staff. Entire full-summer staff is First Aid andand CPRFall Certified. Camper/Counselor Ratio 5:1 Spring Mother-Daughter Weekends...

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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48th Anniversary of USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park Free admission is offered to all Alabama residents to celebrate the 48th anniversary of the dedication and opening of the park to the public. Karen Conner 433-2703/kconner@ussalabama.com.

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Thursday, January 10 Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Teen Study Hall-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details.

Friday, January 11

Rock in the New Year Rock-Painting-Daphne Library Kids can paint rocks like pets, etc., materials provided. Noon-5 p.m. 621-2818. www.daphnelibrary.org. Live Bluegrass, Gospel and Classic Country Music at Wales West See January 1 for details.

Entertainment for Kids • Playground Boat Dock • Private Room for Birthday Parties

Saturday, January 12

Val Webb’s Draw & Paint Monarch Butterflies Working from actual specimens, learn a stepby-step process for creating a realistic monarch using gouache and colored pencil on handmade buff paper. No experience necessary and all art supplies are provided. Class size limited to 10. $65 per person. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m.Gift certificates are available. Email Val Webb at studio@valwebb.com to reserve a spot. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www.Alabama5Rivers.com, 251-625-0814. Snowbird Fest Orange Beach Events Center at the Wharf. The Annual Snowbird Fest is the Southeast’s premier event focused on the needs and desires of the winter traveler and their unique lifestyle. 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. Entertainment includes: Car & Truck Show, RC McArthur - One Man Band, Danny Rand’s Elvis throughout the Years, Magic Show by the Amazing Cain’s Clever Capers, Juggling show by Josh the Great, Robert Thrower, tribal historic preservation officer at Poarch Band of Creek Indians, and The Snowbird Shuffle, a walk benefiting the Arthritis Foundation. www.snowbirdfest.com. BankTrust First Light Marathon Race consists of a 26.2-mile marathon, a 13.1-half marathon, a five-person relay and a 1.2- mile run with the course open for 7 hours. This is a certified course for the full and the half marathon that winds its way through diverse neighborhoods to showcase the unique heritage of the area. Activities include a health and fitness expo, pre-race dinner, post-race brunch and concert. Fee for participants only. 7:30 a.m.- 2:30 p.m. 438-2094. www.firstlightmarathon. com. Krewe de La Daphine Parade Mardi Gras Parade begins at 1 p.m. Dauphin Island.

Visit www.EasternShoreParents.com

3733 Battleship Pkwy • Mobile • 251-626-2188 Hwy 59 • Original Oyster House Boardwalk • 251-948-2445

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Images courtesy of So Life Studios, 217 Fairhope Ave

Sunday, January 13

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week we take a trip around the world in the film Earth Navigators. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www.Alabama5Rivers.com, 251-625-0814. St. James Concert Series Helen VanAbbema Rodgers on Organ and Jose Sunderland. Begins at 4 p.m. at 860 N. Section St., Fairhope. 928-2912.

Monday, January 14

Ocean Camp hosts Birmingham Southern College Education Interns Ocean Camp has scheduled Marine Science programs for children in grades K-12 to participate

in an exciting opportunity working with Birmingham Southern College Education Department. Low student teacher ratio, only $10 per student, no cost to teachers or chaperones. Programs can be scheduled Monday, January 14 from 8:30 a.m.-4 p.m. through Friday, January 25. Open on Monday, Jan. 21 MLK Holiday. Gulf Shores Beach Retreat, 1054 West Beach Blvd. Contact: 802-8605 /oceancamp@gmail. com /www.facebook.com/oceancamp. Teen Book Club-Daphne Library See January 7 for details.

Tuesday, January 15

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Family Calendar week a twist on the story of the Three Little Pigs with Helen Ketteman’s The Three Little Gators. 10-11 a.m. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www. Alabama5Rivers.com, 251-625-0814. Book Club Night with Anderson and Stephanie Join voracious readers and book club extraordinaires Stephanie Crowe and Anderson McKean, as they recommend excellent book club reads at Page & Palette in Fairhope. They’ll also be giving away a ton of advanced reader copies! Begins at 6 p.m. Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Afterschool Storytime & Art Hour-Fairhope Library See January 8 for details. Bluegrass, Gospel and Classic Country Music at Wales West See January 1 for details.

Wednesday, January 16

Read It & Eat With Michael Morris Page & Palette is welcoming back Michael Morris for a Read It & Eat luncheon as he discusses his newest novel Man in the Blue Moon. Begins at noon. www.page&palette.com.

Thursday, January 17 Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Teen Study Hall-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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Friday, January 18

Sanctity of Human Life Celebration Free to the public. Abby Johnson, author of unPlanned is the Keynote speaker. The event will be held at Knollwood Church in Mobile at 6 p.m. There will even be special music from Bridget Moses and her new cd The Seed. Dessert social, silent auction and more. Celebrate YOU – for the Young, Old & Unborn. For more information contact Jennifer Lopes via emaillopesjennifer@bellsouth.net. Page & Palette presents Nick Bruel: Bad Kitty School Daze Nick Bruel is the author and illustrator of the phenomenally successful Bad Kitty books, as well as other fantastic picture books like Who Is Melvin Bubble? and Bob and Otto. He will be at the bookstore at 3:30 p.m. signing copies of Bad Kitty School Daze. Live Bluegrass, Gospel and Classic Country Music at Wales West See January 1 for details.

Saturday, January 19

Mobile Symphony Presents Carnival of the Animals Hear tortoises, elephants and kangaroos as they come to life in Saint-Saen’s brazen zoological fantasy; also a rare concert performance of Bach’s Double Violin Concerto. 8 p.m.; Sun., 2:30 p.m. at the Saenger Theater. Admission charged. Contact: 432-2010 ext 240. www.mobilesymphony.org. 15th Annual Juried Art Show and Exhibit Daphne Juried Art Show and Exhibit. Bay Rivers

Art Guild & Gallery (BRAG)--Awards ceremony and reception 5:30 p.m.-7 p.m. Show runs Jan 19-Mar 6. 1704 6th St., Daphne. Contact: Lynn Rios 621-0659/ bayriverartguild@bellsouth.net/www.bragart.org.

Sunday, January 20

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week we join the secret world of owls in the film Magic of the Snowy Owl. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www.Alabama5Rivers.com, 251625-0814. Mobile Symphony Presents Carnival of the Animals See January 19 for details.

Monday, January 21

72nd Annual Camellia Show Blooms of hundreds of old cultivars and many new cultivars will be on display at Colonial Mall Bel Air. Information about planting and growing camellias will be available. 2-7 p.m.; Sun. noon- 4 p.m. 9881405/ www.mobilecamellia.org. Teen Book Club-Daphne Public Library See Jan. 7 for details.

Tuesday, January 22 72nd Annual Camellia Show See January 21 for details. Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details.

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Afterschool Storytime & Art Hour-Fairhope Library See January 8 for details. Live Bluegrass, Gospel and Classic Country Music at Wales West See January 1 for details.

football stars and top NFL draft prospects on teams representing the North and South which are coached by the entire coaching staffs from two National Football League teams. 3 p.m. at Ladd-Peebles Stadium. 438-2276/www.seniorbowl.com.

Thursday, January 24

Sunday, January 27

Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Teen Study Hall-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details.

Saturday, January 26

5 Rivers Saturday Adventure: Venomous vs. Nonvenomous Snakes of Alabama Ever wondered when out a hike if that snake is venomous or not? Join the educators of 5 Rivers for a free talk and discover what makes a venomous snake. Stick around afterwards to meet some of the legless members of the 5 Rivers staff. 1011 a.m. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www. Alabama5Rivers.com, 251-625-0814. Puppetry and Songs at Magnolia Springs Library On the last Saturday of each month at 11 a.m., we will welcome back Mrs. Kathy Weeks with her exciting programs for 2 year olds and above. Even 10 year olds will enjoy her puppetry and songs, accompanied by the best stories. Magnolia Springs Public Library. Senior Bowl The Senior Bowl is the nation’s most unique football featuring the country’s best senior collegiate

5 Rivers Sunday Matinee Come out and join us every Sunday for a free, family friendly film. The films play throughout the day. This week we learn about unlikely friendships in the film Animal Odd Couples. 5 Rivers Delta Resource Center, www.Alabama5Rivers.com, 251-625-0814.

Monday, January 28 Teen Book Club-Daphne Library See January 7 for details.

Tuesday, January 29

Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Afterschool Storytime & Art Hour-Fairhope Library See January 8 for details. Teen Mardi Gras Mask Making WorkshopDaphne Library Teens 6-12th grade gather to make masks from unique and fun materials. 3:45-4:45 p.m. 621-2818. www.daphnelibrary.org. Live Bluegrass, Gospel and Classic Country Music at Wales West See January 1 for details.

Wednesday, January 30

“Read It & Eat” With Jen Lancaster Page & Palette presents a Read It & Eat luncheon and book signing with New York Times bestselling author Jen Lancaster from noon-1:00 p.m. Tickets are $15 and include lunch at Camellia Cafe and $5 off the purchase of her latest novel, Here I Go Again.

Thursday, January 31 Lapsit Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Preschool Story Time-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details. Teen Study Hall-Fairhope Library See January 3 for details.

Looking ahead...

March 15, 16, & 17. 61st Annual Arts & Crafts Festival in Fairhope Over 230 fine arts & crafts exhibitors. Live local entertainment. Unique festival food. BRATS shuttle service from shopping centers at Greeno Rd. & Fairhope Ave. for $2 each way (3 minute ride). This an Eastern Shore Chamber of Commerce event. www.eschamber.com/artscrafts.

We make every effort to ensure the accuracy of these calendar events. However, you should call ahead to confirm dates, times, location, and other information.

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

A Page in a Book

by Paige Gardner Smith

The Fashion in Kids Books

As new parents, we dress our babies in the sweetest, cutest clothes the minute they leave the hospital. As long as they will let us, we put them in the clothes we like, because we know the fashion clock is ticking. There quickly comes the time when our child says, “I don’t want to wear that”, the time when they start making their own fashion choices. Sometimes it’s a cringe-worthy combination of PJ pants, cowboy boots and a puffy vest. Sometimes they prefer an eye-blinding blend of fuschia, turqouise and camouflage anything. It’s the beginning of our children starting to see clothes as an outward extension of themselves – the same way adults do. Offering kids a new way to look at what we wear and why, the following titles feature colorful stories that revolve around articles of clothing.

The New Sweater

by Oliver Jerrers (Penguin) In a world full of Hueys who all look alike, and think alike, it’s hard to stand out. But one Huey, named Rupert decides to knit himself a sweater. And wearing it, he distinguishes himself from the rest of his peers. The other Hueys think Rupert’s new look is a bit odd. But Gillespie thinks the sweater is cool – and knits one that he can wear, too. Soon the look catches on and Hueys everywhere are sporting the same sweater. No longer viewed as odd, but rather a trend-setter, how will Rupert stand out from the crowd now? Jeffer’s simply-drawn, wildly expressive world of Hueys is the perfect landscape to illustrate the power of one brilliant orange sweater to make an individual fashion statement.

Lost and Found

by Bill Harley Illustrated by Adam Gustavson (Peachtree) Kids know what it means to have a favorite clothing item…and what it means to lose it. For parents (and kids) who have turned the house upside down before school in the morning seeking the elusive hatshirt-scarf-whatever, this title will strike a familiar chord. When a boy loses a special cap knitted by his Grandmother, he begins an all-encompassing search to find it before her visit. He discovers a mountain of items, separated from their owners in the school ‘Lost & Found’. But to get to through the avalanche of stuff and find his hat, he must cultivate a relationship with the school’s crusty custodian. His hat-search evolves into a mission that reunites classmates with things from the box, and finding homes for unclaimed items along the way. A warm celebration of natural attachments to favorite clothing, ‘Lost and Found’ is a great kids’ book find!

Laundry Day

by Maurie J. Manning (Houghton Mifflin) A poor shoeshine boy is hawking his services (without much success) on an early 20th century city street when a red scarf floats down around his shoulders. Looking up, among the clotheslines strung between the city’s buildings, he realizes that it’s laundry day and the scarf could have dropped from a host of neighbors’ lines. Climbing fire escapes, shimmying up drainpipes, the shoeshine boy carries the scarf from balcony to balcony seeking its owner. He meets people from different cultures and countries as he navigates through buildings filled with immigrant families. The boy’s journey to return the scarf becomes more than a goodwill mission, it opens up a world of discovery with its own rewards.

Find Find more more A A Page Page in in aa Book Book recommendations recommendations at at www.PageBookReviews.com. www.PageBookReviews.com.

Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

Les Miserables

Parental Guidance

MPAA Rating: PG-13 Overall: B Violence: CSexual Content: CLanguage: C+ Alcohol / Drug Use: C+ The MPAA has rated Les Misérables PG-13 for suggestive and sexual material, violence and thematic elements. Despite the incredible musical score and a song designed for comic relief, Les Misérables deals with mature themes in desperate times. The portrayals of child abuse, prostitution, and a bloody rebellion may make this story too explicit for many younger viewers. However the unnecessary inclusion of a moment of sexual activity during the sole scene of comedy is the greatest factor in not being able to broadly recommend this film. But for adults and older adolescents, the narrative of Jean Valjean’s unjust imprisonment and ultimate redemption remains as forceful as ever. Released from jail after serving nearly two decades for stealing a loaf of bread to feed his starving family, Jean Valjean (Hugh Jackman) finds the outside world as inhospitable as his prison cell. Forced to carry papers that identify him as an ex-criminal he can find neither work nor friend until a generous priest invites him to sleep inside a church. As repayment for the hospitality, Jean waits until his host is asleep and then stuffs the church’s silver into a bag before stealing away. When he is apprehended by the local authorities and returned to the Bishop of Digne (Colm Wilkinson) the man of the cloth, rather than revealing the truth, instead chides Jean for forgetting the silver candlesticks and sets him free. This one act of kindness in an otherwise cruel world offers a rebirth to the broken man. Years later as a successful businessman living under the alias of Monsieur Madeleine, Jean has the opportunity to reciprocate this kindness by offering mercy to one of his former employees who is driven to despair and prostitution by her vicious coworkers. As Fantine (Anne Hathaway) lies dying, Jean promises to find her daughter Cosette (played by Isabelle Allen and Amanda Seyfried) and raise her as his own. However, even while the reformed man attempts to fulfills his promise, he is haunted by his past in the form of Inspector Javert (Russell Crowe), a zealous police officer with an aim to find and punish Jean for breaking parole. With strong moral dilemmas and personal heart wrenching dramas, Les Misérables’ complex characters and scenarios can push audiences to consider their own level of human compassion. Just leave the kids at home for this heavy tale.

MPAA Rating: PG Overall: BViolence: B+ Sexual Content: B Language: AAlcohol / Drug Use: BThe MPAA has rated Parental Guidance PG for some rude humor. Artie and Diane Decker (Billy Crystal and Bette Midler) seldom see their three grandchildren, so when their only child Alice (Marisa Tomei) requests an extended child-sitting favor so she can accompany her husband (Tom Everett Scott) on a business trip, grandma can’t say no. Grandpa, on the other hand, is dealing with a sudden job loss and would rather be down in the dumps on his own sofa. Conceding to his wife’s determination to care for the little ones he slaps a smile on his face and heads to Atlanta. Raised in a home where words like “no”, “don’t”, and “stop” are banned and political correctness is embraced, Artie’s gift of a trio of water guns is unwelcomed by his daughter, who shun violent toys, even though it elicit sequels of delight from the youngsters. Soon even Grandpa regrets the choice after one of the little darlings showers his pants, leaving him with a wet crotch. And in short order other personality traits are revealed that are sure to tax the sitters. 12-year-old Harper (Bailee Madison) is an over-achiever wrestling with a newfound desire to have a social life, Turner (Joshua Rush) is dealing with a bullying issue that aggravates his stuttering speech disorder and little Barker (Harrison Breitkopf) quickly learns that blackmailing Grandpa can be a profitable activity. This couple-of-fish-out-of-water premise holds all the usual hijinks one might expect, including the kids’ first introduction to high sugar foods when Fartie (grandpa’s new nickname, heard repeatedly throughout the script) brings home a giant ice cream cake as one of many bribes to keep the boys quiet about a previous indiscretions. And that leads to the biggest concern in this script -- our senior protagonist constantly lies and yet he, with some help from Grandma Diane, eventually becomes the source of wisdom that ultimately drives the story to its happy ending. There are truly funny moments, especially with Billy Crystal’s comic delivery and the chemistry he shares with Bette Midler. As well, it is nice to see a movie that puts grandparents in a position of being helpful and (somewhat) knowledgeable. It’s just unfortunate that this production from Walden Media, a company dedicated to creating stories that (according to their website) “... capture the imagination, rekindle curiosity, and demonstrate the rewards of virtue,” doesn’t offer families some stronger reasons to seek Parental Guidance.

What Parents need to know about Les Misérables...

What Parents Need To Know About Parental Guidance... Violence: A grandfather encourages his bullied grandson to stand up to his assailant -- later the boy returns with a black eye and admits he threw the first punch. A child hits a man in the crotch with a bat. A man falls from a skateboard after slipping in a puddle of urine. An imaginary friend is hit by a car and killed, and a funeral is held the next day. Sexual Content: A man makes mild sexual remarks during a pat down at airport security. Other veiled remarks are made about a married couple needing to have intimate time together. Women are seen exercising using dance poles -- no sexual comments are made. Married couples kiss. Language: A man named Artie is referred to as “Farite” by his grandkids. Drugs/Alcohol: A man says he needs a martini. A woman drinks a glass of wine while stressed. A character talks positively about getting drunk. Social drinking, including alcohol served at a bar, is depicted.

Violence: Corpses are seen, along with numerous sick and impoverished people. Characters engage in a sword fight. A child is subjected to cruel treatment. During a standoff, frequent gunfire is depicted and numerous characters are shot and killed (with blood shown in the streets). An explosion is set off. A child is gunned down. A police officer is captured and threatened with death by the rebels. A man commits suicide. Sexual Content: An employer makes sexual invitations to an employee. Prostitutes wear revealing clothing. A man hires a prostitute (brief sexual activity shown). Later a clothed woman is shown atop a man. A woman rubs a man’s private area and male buttock nudity is briefly shown. Language: The script contains several vulgar and sexual comments, profanities, some terms of Deity and scatological slang. Alcohol / Drug Use: Characters smoke and drink. Eastern Shore Parents I January 2013

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