Lehigh Valley Family May 2014

Family Lehigh Valley

May 2014

.com

Go Fish! The Best Local Fishing Spots Fighting Spring Allergies Naturally!

Calendar of Events Agriculture Supported Community What’s on Your Summer Style List?

Family Challenge Family Fun Explore Community Prizes

Want a Summer of Adventure?

The IGNITE Your Life Challenge runs June 23rd thru August 3. Join IGNITE Your Life as we explore the Lehigh Valley for the best our community has to offer. We’ll sample the hottest venues in fitness, nutrition, and outdoor adventures Your family will have the opportunity to earn points throughout. Highest scoring family will win the Grand Prize!

Presented By:

Family Lehigh Valley

Visit the IGNITE Your Life webpage today to learn more. Registration is now open, and is limited to the first 50 families.

Dive into a dynamic experience with your family, creating memories that they will cherish for years to come!

LehighValleyFamily.com/Ignite-Your-Life

Family Lehigh Valley

OUR TEAM Publisher

Associate Editor

Editor

Contributors

Jeff Tintle, II Laura Putt

855-233-7034 x 702 Editor@ lehighvalleyfamily.com

Vicki Bezems

Jeff Tintle Sr. Art Villafane Kenrick Smith Amanda Furbeck

For Advertising

Contact 855-233-7034 x 700 or sales@lehighvalleyfamily.com

A Thrive, LLC publication 4748 Hamilton Boulevard, Suite 201, Allentown, PA 18106 855-233-7034 editor@lehighvalleyfamily.com

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Copyright© 2014 by Thrive, LLC. All rights reserved.

The contents of this publication may not be copied or reproduced in any manner without the express written permission of the publisher. Thrive, LLC assumes no responsibility for damages arising from errors or omissions. Thrive Media, 4748 Hamilton Boulevard, Suite 201, Allentown, PA 18106 www. lehighvalleyfamily.com.

Lehigh Valley Family’s monthly issues are available online at www.lehighvalleyfamily.com. Print issues are published monthly and are available at libraries, churches, health clubs, medical facilities, child care centers, preschools, educational centers, and other locations where publications are generally found.

FROM THE EDITOR

A

s I sit at my desk, the sun is just peeking over the trees.

I see that the grass is starting to turn a brilliant shade of green, and the buds of leaves are beginning to appear on the trees. Daffodils and hyacinth are popping up in the garden, and the world filled with vibrant color everywhere. This moment is one of my favorite parts of spring – the moment we are reminded of nature’s splendor after a long, bleak winter.

There is an overwhelming beauty that we just cannot help but notice. This awakening serves as a reminder that now is a perfect time to go outside and explore our community. Find a trail and go for a hike, ride bikes on the rails-to-trails path, or just spend some time at your favorite park. Our community is packed with opportunities to get out and have fun with your family. Or, stay home and work on your garden and spring clean. Within these pages, we offer you many ideas. If you need further inspiration, join the IGNITE Your Life Challenge – we have a whole summer of adventure mapped out for you and your family to enjoy.

Whatever it is you decide to do – be sure to take the time to smell the daffodils!

- Laura

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OUTDOORS

Go Fish!

By Jeff Tintle, Sr. Lehigh Valley Family

2. Plan your event. We’ve all heard the expression,

“Anticipation is half the fun.” There is a lot of truth in that, especially when children are involved. As you prepare to go fishing, talk about past experiences, or if you’ve never gone, what it might be like. Kids love to hear stories and it allows them to create a mental picture of the event before it happens. Keep in mind this does not have to be over-the-top. Keep it simple as in a local pond, lake or river.

3. Let’s fish. It is very exciting to throw your line in the water,

N

o, I am not suggesting you “break the cards out”. I am talking about the positive attributes of angling, a.k.a. “fishing”.

If you are like me, you have fond memories of fishing as a kid. It was exciting to get ready and go out with my friends. I can still feel the warmth of the sun on my face and cool water on my feet and remember laughing with my buddies as we sat along the banks of our local river. Those days were carefree, with the only challenge being to see who caught the biggest fish.

With those thoughts in mind, why not create new memories? The following are some reasons that you may want to throw your line back in the water. In addition, consider the merits of bringing your children or grandchildren with you, as there are many “life lessons” in fishing.

1. Positive preparation time. Just like anything else in life, in

order to have success we must properly prepare. Get your children or grandchildren involved with preparation. It’s important for them to see it’s not just about reeling in the fish. It may take longer with them involved; however, “enjoy the moment.” If you have existing gear you may want to dust off the tackle box, put new line on your reel and make sure you can cast properly. If you need new equipment, visit your local sporting goods store for help in getting the right gear. You don’t have to spend a lot of money. Start slowly.

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get a nibble, then a bite, and ultimately reel in a fish. It’s even more exciting to see your children or grandchildren experience it. The expression on their face is priceless. With that in mind, this is a teachable moment for children. What I mean by that is we can prepare ourselves for something, take all the right steps and then… nothing happens, as in “no nibbles, no bites, no fish”. In our world where instant gratification is a requirement, fishing might be a letdown. Don’t let the moment slip away in explaining we had a great time getting ready, we are together, talking and having a good time. We may catch fish, we may not; that’s life. Children are not going to grasp that at the moment; however, in time they will.

4. The quiet moments. As time goes by and experience is

gained, there will be more quiet moments. That’s not a bad thing.

No cell phones, texting, Facebook, Twitter, no real loss. Remember this from an Unknown Author, “Make time for the quiet moments….. for God whispers and the world is loud.”

5. Positive memories. Most of us have fond memories of

loved ones and the times we spent together. While we should always cherish old memories, making new ones is equally important.

Fishing is one of those events where memories can be made - you know, like telling your grandchildren about the big one that got away. We can all tell that story and laugh! So “go fish” and thrive!

Please be sure to take the right safety precautions when fishing. This may include life preservers, hats, sunglasses and sunscreen. Thrive, LLC encourages you to seek the advice of your physician before engaging in any type of new physical activity.

Visitors Welcome!

Education, Conservation, and Research

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OUTDOORS

Give Me All of Your...

Best Fishing Spots!

We’ve compiled a list of the best fishing spots within easy driving distance of the valley.... Let us know which are your favorites! water-oriented recreation, and opened for public use in 1971.

Route 143, Jackson Village, Kempton, PA 19529

Lehigh County Parks & Recreation Department

The Bureau of Parks & Recreation is responsible for the development and management of approximately 2,500 acres of County Park land and open space.

260 South Cedarbrook Road, Allentown, PA 18104

Allentown Parks and Recreation

3000 Parkway Blvd. Allentown, PA 18101

Bethlehem Department of Recreation

10 East Church Street Bethlehem , PA 18018

Cedar Creek Parkway East

Park located in South Whitehall Township; location of Haines Mill Museum. 3600 Dorney Park Road, Allentown, PA 18104

Cedar Creek Parkway West

Cedar Creek Parkway West offers a variety of recreation opportunities. Cedarbrook Road, Allentown, PA 18104

Delaware Canal State Park

The 60-mile towpath of the Delaware Canal is a stroll into American History.

11 Lodi Hill Road, RR, Box 615A Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972

Delaware River Islands

Mauch Chunk Lake Park

Mauch Chunk Lake Park is a great place to visit. Not only is it an excellent camping spot but it is also close to some of the best mountain biking trails in the state. Mauch Chunk Lake Park is a county park and operated by the county's Parks and Recreation Department.

625 Lentz Trail, Jim Thorpe, PA 18229

Neshaminy State Park

Neshaminy State Park is along the Delaware River in lower Bucks County and takes its name from Neshaminy Creek, which joins the Delaware at this point.

3401 State Road, Bensalem, PA 19020

Nockamixon State Park

The 5,283-acre Nockamixon State Park surrounds the 1,450-acre Lake Nockamixon. The park's forests and fields are a large green space in this rapidly developing area.

1542 Mountain View Road, Quakertown, PA 18951

These islands are perfect for exploring or stopping at while paddling the Delaware. They are maintained in a natural condition by allowing physical and biological processes to operate.

11 Lodi Hill Road, RR, Box 615A, Upper Black Eddy, PA 18972

Plainfield Township Recreational Trail

Easton Department of Recreation

Rickett’s Glen State Park

1 South 3rd Street, Easton, PA 18042

Hickory Run State Park

With 16,000 acres, this large park has more than 40 miles of hiking trails, three state park natural areas and miles of trout streams. The Boulder Field, a striking boulder-strewn area, is a National Natural Landmark.

RR 1 Box 81, White Haven, PA 18661

Leaser Lake

Leaser Lake was built by the Pennsylvania Fish Commission for

A 70-foot drop into the Bushkill Creek is one of the many attractions that Plainfield Township Trail offers.

Sullivan Trail Road, Stockertown, PA 18083 At Rickett’s Glen you can take the Falls Trail and explore the Glens, which boasts a series of wild, free-flowing waterfalls, each cascading through rock-strewn clefts in this ancient hillside.

695 State Route 487, Benton, PA 17815

Silver Lake Nature Center

Visiting Silver Lake Nature Center, a 253-acre "natural treasure" in the heart of the southern portion of Bucks County, is an experience to be savored, not rushed. It's a place where lush foliage, accessible wetlands and rich woodlands abound.1306 Bath Road, Bristol, 19007.

www.LehighValleyFamily.com • Lehigh Valley Family

5

FASHION

What’s on Your Summer Style Shopping List?

By Amanda Furbeck, Lehigh Valley Family Fashionista

A

fter one of the worst of winters, with harsh temperatures and layers of heavy clothes, it’s time to think warm weather and summer clothes! Now is the right time to pull out your summer attire, wash it up, air it out, fix it up, and sort it through. Get rid of anything you won’t wear, and start making your summer style list… After all, a new season calls for a few new, key pieces to keep you up to date and feeling great about yourself. What do you think of this sampling of what’s coming our way for summer style?

Summer work place. It isn’t all about summer dress

down days. Sometimes, you still need to look professional and classy at work. So don’t forget the crisp white button down shirt – look for one with some interesting details, such as an Asianinspired shape, a fancy collar, or a splash of color on the pocket.

Match it up with a pair of high-waisted, wide leg trousers in a light weight fabric. Tuck in the shirt and add a belt, or tie the blouse at the bottom. Wear with a great pair of retro-inspired mules or your favorite pair of pumps. Don’t be afraid to wear a brightly colored shoe with a black and white ensemble. If you want to be a little more daring, shop now for a great power suit.

But skip the more somber black and charcoal colors when suit shopping. Instead, look for slim shaped suits in flower prints, metallic colors, or even a hot pink tweed. You’ll add a little whimsy and pizazz to an otherwise serious outfit.

look great on the beach. There are plenty of less revealing bathing suit styles to flatter your shape. If you like one piece suits, you’re right on target this year. Look for one pieces with bright, mixed prints. Mixing prints in just the right way can slim your torso, or add curves in just the right places. You might have to experiment with a few different suits to find the one that flatters you the best.

Also keep an eye open for halter and strapless one piece suits, and suits with a Bohemian flair. Or look for a simple style with some Casual Weekends. A relaxing weekend doesn’t have interesting details – a ruffle here, an asymmetrical cut, or geometric to mean wearing your cherished yoga pants and a fitted t-shirt. shapes and colors. For the trendiest look on the boardwalk, opt for Amp it up just a notch with a sixties inspired jumper. Look for a high-waisted, full coverage bikini bottom with a halter top. Cover jumpers that are soft and flowy, with an elegant feel. Throw a a bikini with a long mesh dress or add a sarong to a one piece for a soft button down denim shirt over top of a pair of shorts for a touch of modesty and sun protection. relaxed, but chic look. Add a spaghetti strapped tank and a pair of high-waisted shorts to master this comfy trend. For dinner The best part of the beach is the accessories. and a movie, consider a luxurious crepe spaghetti strap dress This is the best place to wear your wide brimmed hat with oversized with a subtle pair of sandals. For chilly nights, add a striking or cat eye sunglasses. Trade in your standard flip-flops for goldpastel colored biker jacket to your outfit. You’ll be totally on toned sandals that will go from the beach to dinner out. Or throw trend and stand out in a crowd. For an edgier look, add tights on a pair of comfy Keds for a quick jaunt to the beach playground and high heeled booties to your dress. Going out to brunch? or stroll on the boards. Bring along a brightly colored, over-sized Consider crisp white dresses in thick lace or a crocheted-type tote bag to stash your lunch and reading material. fabric. Better yet, sport a full skirted modern flower print dress.

You’ll be comfortable and stylish with a pair of low mules or Summer can be one of the most stylish times of year without the sandals. For a more tailored style, try a button down shirt dress constraints of cold temperatures and heavy sweaters. You can choose in a heavier fabric. Don’t forget to add a belt to create a more the fabrics, fit, and styles that are comfy and will help protect you slimming look. Other great looks include dresses with strong from the sun. And always choose the styles and trends that make geometric patterns – think black and white checks, brightly you look and feel great. Which items will you add to your summer colored circles, or retro- color blocking just for fun. style shopping list?

Beach days. You don’t have to sport a teeny bikini to 6 May 2014

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Connect with Amanda at www.facebook.com/etudesand encores.

www.LehighValleyFamily.com

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Wuzzles!

What’s a wuzzle you ask? A wuzzle is a saying/phrase that is made up of a display of words, in an interesting way.

The object is to try to figure out the wellknown saying, person, place, or thing that each wuzzle is meant to represent.

Answers Below, no peeking!

Did You Know?

May is: Carrots and Cauliflower Month National Good Car Keeping Month National Hamburger Month

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May 1 - Batman Day May 6 - No Homework Day May 8 - No Socks Day May 11 - Eat What You Want Day May 13 - Frog Jumping Day May 15 - Straw Hat Day May 15 - National Pizza Party Day May 18 - Visit Your Relatives Day May 25 - Cookie Monster’s Birthday May 29 - Put a Pillow On Your Fridge Day

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7

FUN FACTS

Unbelievable Facts • Glass takes one million years to decompose, which means it never wears out and can be recycled an infinite amount of times!

• Gold is the only metal that doesn't rust, even if it's buried in the ground for thousands of years.

• Your tongue is the only muscle in your body that is attached at only one end.

• If you stop getting thirsty, you need to drink more water. When a human body is dehydrated, its thirst mechanism shuts off.

• Zero is the only number that cannot be represented by Roman numerals.

• Kites were used in the American Civil War to deliver letters and newspapers.

• Drinking water after eating reduces the acid in your mouth by 61 percent.

• Peanut oil is used for cooking in submarines because it doesn't smoke unless it's heated above 450F. • Nine out of every 10 living things live in the ocean.

• Airports at higher altitudes require a longer airstrip due

to lower air density.

• The University of Alaska spans four time zones.

• In ancient Greece, tossing an apple to a girl was a traditional proposal of marriage.

Catching it meant she accepted.

• Warner Communications paid $28 million for the copyright to the song Happy Birthday.

• A comet's tail always points away from the sun.

• The Swine Flu vaccine in 1976 caused more death and illness than the disease it was intended to prevent.

• Caffeine increases the power of aspirin and other painkillers, that is why it is found in some medicines.

• The military salute is a motion that evolved from medieval times, when knights in armor raised their visors to reveal their identity.

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NUTRITION

Fresh, Locally-Grown, Organic Produce At Affordable Prices

By The Rodale Institute

T

his year, the Rodale Institute ASC program is producing 180 shares of organic produce which will help local families eat healthy, nutritious food on even the tightest of budgets. Their goal is to make fresh, organic produce affordable and accessible to anyone. So what is this ASC program?

Agriculture Supported Communities (ASC) is a farm share program where every member’s dollar makes them a stakeholder and a part of the farm itself. Members receive a seasonal “share” of organic produce each week throughout the season that can be picked up at a local community site.

In addition to producing food for the 180 shares to be distributed throughout Allentown and Reading, the Institute’s ASC will host a small Saturday farmers’ market on 7th Street at St. Luke’s Evangelical Lutheran Church in Allentown from June – September. Families who sign up for the program can opt to pay for the whole season up front, or they pay for their share on a weekly basis. To further accommodate

everyone, the program accepts cash, credit cards and SNAP benefits!

By becoming a member of Rodale Institute’s ASC you are supporting organic agriculture as well as the local food system. You are in direct contact with your food source, and, in most cases, the food that you receive has been harvested the day you pick it up. It doesn’t get much fresher than that!

What You’ll Get:

A share consists of 1-2 bags of fresh organic produce each week containing a diverse rainbow of flavors that can include vegetables and herbs. Members can either pay for the whole season up front ($750.00 for a full share) or pay weekly ($25.00 for a full share, $15.00 for a half share). Anyone can sign up for this program.

Payment:

Members may pay for their shares when they pick up their produce with cash, credit card, or EBT cards for SNAP benefits.

Other payment options include keeping a credit card on file for automatic debit or paying for the entire season up front.

When:

The typical season runs from June – November.

Where:

You can choose to pick up your share at a location convenient to you.

Options include: - The Rodale Institute, Kutztown - Sacred Heart Hospital, Allentown - Community Services for Children, Inc., Allentown

How to Become Involved:

If you want to pitch in and get your hands dirty, we always have volunteer opportunities available. In addition, we have volunteer opportunities at the distribution sites helping to give out produce to ASC Members Sign Up For The 2014 Season Today!

Learn more about ASC or become a member by contacting Cynthia James, Food Production Specialist, at Cynthia.Tames@ RodaleInstitute.org.

www.LehighValleyFamily.com • Lehigh Valley Family

9

HEALTH

Fighting Spring Allergies the Natural Way

By Vicki Bezems, Lehigh Valley Family

S

pring of 2014 promises to bring a severe allergy season because of the long winter and the sudden onset of pollen production. Fortunately, it seems there are as many remedies for hay fever symptoms, or allergic rhinitis, as there are types of pollen. There are conventional medicines – antihistamines, nasal sprays, decongestants, inhalers – by prescription and over the counter. There are eye drops, nasal sprays, and nasal washes. There are home remedies and herbal supplements. The choices are overwhelming, and it’s hard to know where to start when selecting one.

We don’t claim to be experts on the subject. But we want to help you wade through the maze of information and infomercials to find the treatment that works best for you.

Prevention

The old adage, “An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure”, is particularly true for avoiding spring allergy symptoms. Regardless of which remedy or preventive measure you choose, start well before pollen season begins – one or two months. It’s also important to: • Keep your windows closed, even though it is tempting to open up the house to the first warm breezes.

• When you must be outside for an extended period of time, especially doing yard work, use a mask.

• Wash your hair after being outside at times of high pollen count.

• Rinse off your pet after it has been outside on high pollen days.

Natural Remedies

While some allergy sufferers go straight to mainstream meds, others prefer natural or alternative methods. Home remedies and naturopathic formulas are not known to have the side effects of conventional medicines, for instance, drowsiness that is caused by some antihistamines.

Here are some of the more popular herbal supplements for hay fever.

• Butterbur blocks chemicals that trigger swelling in the nasal passages. It can be as effective as antihistamines, such as Zyrtec and Allegra. (Do not eat raw, unprocessed butterbur root, but look for brands that are labeled UPA-free.)

• Quercetin is a type of plant-based chemical known as a flavonoid.

Good sources include apples, onions, teas, red wines, and many other foods. Quercetin is also available as a dietary supplement.

“Quercetin is sort of the herbal equivalent to cromolyn sodium [in the over-the-counter spray NasalCrom],” according to WebMD. • Bromelain has been found in some studies to help reduce nasal swelling and to thin mucus, making it easier for people to breathe.

• Phleum pretense (Timothy-grass). A few studies have found that a sublingual tablet made from pollen extracts from this plant can reduce some pollen allergy symptoms, such as eye irritation, in people with asthma, as well as help decrease symptoms in people suffering from hay fever. It also allowed people to reduce the dose of their allergy medicine.

• Combination allergy supplements. Many natural allergy remedies on the market contain a blend of botanicals, such as Sinupret, a combination of European elderflower, sorrel, cowslip, verbena, and gentian root. Use for many years in Europe, there’s some evidence that it helps treat the symptoms of bronchitis and acute sinusitis.

Source: www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/lifestyle-guide-11 It’s extremely important to check with your doctor or pharmacist before taking herbal supplements, especially for drug interactions with other medications you may be taking. Keep in mind that the long term effects of many supplements have not been studied.

Bitter orange (also called Citrus aurantium), is sometimes sold as a decongestant. It is of special interest because it may cause serious side effects, including an increased risk of high blood pressure, heart problems, and stroke.

Honey

Many believe that eating local, unprocessed or "raw" honey can relieve allergy symptoms by regularly exposing you to pollen – sim-

10 May 2014

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www.LehighValleyFamily.com

HEALTH ilarly to the way allergy injections work. Allergy shots help desensitize pollen-allergic people by exposing them to a specific pollen or pollen mixture injected at regular intervals.

(not pollinated by bees).

Local, unprocessed honey does contain small amounts of pollen from the environment. But the pollen in honey comes mostly from the flowers where bees are found, and less from trees, grasses and weeds

There is no scientific proof that eating local honey will improve seasonal allergies, according to a study, published in 2002 in the Annals of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology.

However, in one small study, people allergic to birch pollen who ate honey with birch pollen added, were able to control their allergy symptoms more effectively than those using mainstream allergy medications.

In extremely sensitive individuals, the ingestion of unprocessed honey can trigger an allergic reaction involving the mouth, throat, or skin, or even anaphylaxis (a life threatening reaction). (Sources: http://www.acaai.org; http://abcnews.go.com )

Neti Pots

The Neti pot is considered a “miracle” by many people with sinus problems, and is recommended by the American Academy of Allergy, Asthma & Immunology (AAAAI) for allergy sufferers. The Neti pot, which looks like a small pitcher, is used to flush out the nose. It’s important to always use distilled or boiled water with the Neti pot in order to avoid infection.

Acupuncture

A study has shown that acupuncture can be an effective treatment for allergies. The study, released in 2013, found that people who went for weekly acupuncture treatments had significantly fewer problems breathing than their counterparts who did not receive treatment. However, it’s necessary to continue the treatments on a regular basis in order to maintain the benefits. (Source: http:// abcnews.go.com/ )

Mainstream Medicine

There are dozens of effective medications available over the counter and by prescription. Allergy shots are a proven treatment for hay fever. If you have used over the counter medications or supplements with limited success, see an allergist or your primary care physician.

Lehigh Valley Family recommends that you consult your physician before taking any medication or dietary supplement.

Organic Gardening Tips for May

L zone 6.

ast month you cleaned up your beds and put cold weather plants in the ground. By May, most danger of frost should be over. We’ve narrowed down gardening tips for this month for our area, which is in hardiness

• Keep seedbeds damp with shallow, frequent watering.

• Plant annuals among fading spring bulbs.

• Mulch to conserve moisture and control weeds. Use grass clippings, leaves, pine needles, straw, or plastic for vegetables. Use bark, wood chips, newspaper, and stone or gravel for flowers.

• Control weeds while they are small.

• Transplant tomatoes first, and later in the month, peppers and eggplants.

• Sow squash, beans, corn, and okra seeds directly in the ground.

Sources: www.dcmg.org; www.organicgardening.com; www.almanac.com.

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11

COMMUNITY

Clutter, Clutter Everywhere!

By Joel Aswell, Lehigh Valley Senior Services Council

C

lutter is simply too many things in one place, and the problem is compounded by disorganization. The rule of the day should be the adage, “a place for everything and everything in its place.”

Excess is the problem, and clutter produces a dissonance that disrupts the harmony in our daily lives and produces stress. More importantly, it robs us of the one thing we never have enough of, and that is time. Time misspent getting rid of stuff, hunting for misplaced items, hunting for things to wear, and an additional 40 percent more time spent on weekly cleaning. Too much stuff is throwing away time, as well as money.

As a rule of thumb when considering space, most homes assign approximately ten percent of the total square footage to storage. As move managers, we always consider the amount of storage and try to maximize it. When staging a home, the number of items on any one flat surface should be limited to no more than three. This is a good habit for anyone, whether they are selling their home or not; no one wants to be embarrassed when unexpected guests stop by or

as an excuse not to invite company over.

Most of our excess is hidden in closets, the attic, basement, garage or shed, but personally, I start with the living area on a room by room basis. An ordered living space is a great incentive to attack other areas of the home. Starting with one room at a time, working your way around in a clockwise direction (start with the bedroom and save the kitchen for last) and don’t move to the next without finishing the first. You are now motivated!

There are lots of approaches to start decluttering. One of the more popular is the four- or five-box approach, labeling each as store, keep, give away/sell, toss, or don’t know. Speaking professionally and from experience, this only encourages indecision and procrastination. More simply, if it doesn’t have a place, you have more than one, or it is no longer used, use it or lose it!

And of course, what is the purpose of removing clutter if you don’t discipline yourself in bringing home more? If something new comes, something old must go out. Here are some things to consider:

COMMUNITY 1.

Don’t buy things you don’t need

2.

Sort mail immediately, and dispose of all junk mail. Bills should be filed in a 31 day folder for quick and easy access or processed and saved electronically.

3.

Hang up coats/jackets as soon as you enter the house, a chair is not a hanger.

4.

When purchasing groceries, always keep in mind the “best used by” date. To avoid an accumulation of outdated foodstuffs, don’t buy in excess

5.

Don't buy items (especially clothing) you don't need immediately, but might have an intended use in the future. I have I have cleaned out many closets with unworn clothing with the tags still attached!

6.

Removing shoes is a good practice when entering home, but they must have a place. Shoes scattered in a hallway are not a pretty sight.

7.

idea.

This is not rocket science, and by now I am sure you have some

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Small class size (8:1) allows teachers to focus on personal and social success of students in grades K-8 who benefit from a structured, supportive and multisensory learning environment.

2697 Brookside Road Macungie, PA 18062 610-967-3701 www.hillsideschool.org

De-Cluttering? Donate to a Worthy Cause That You Are Passionate About: American Family Services: This agency’s mission is to aid families before they reach a crisis. To provide help and bring PURE HOPE to couples in strengthening and preserving the family unit. . . empowering them to be all that God intended. To promote and sustain healthy marriages and strong families.

Learn more at www.AmericanFamilyServices.com.

Goodwill Store & Donation Centers: Goodwill® strives to enhance the dignity and quality of life of individuals and families by helping people reach their full potential through education, skills training and the power of work.

Learn more at www.Goodwill.org.

Military Order of the Purple Heart Service Foundation: Committed to providing a variety of disabled veteran services, programs and resources to help combat wounded and disabled veterans and their families for over 50 years. Veteran services include: grants to help disabled veterans, veterans claims assistance, PTSD resources, and job opportunities for disabled veterans.

Learn more at www.MOPHSF.org.

Via: Via of the Lehigh Valley is a non-profit agency that provides services for children and adults with disabilities like autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome.

Learn more at www.ViaNet.org

FUN THINGS TO DO

Calendar of Events CYCLING PeeWee Pedalers is aimed at introducing youngsters who are learning to ride bikes to the excitement and thrill of riding on a velodrome, while teaching elementary cycling skills and basic bicycle safety. The PeeWee Pedalers course is open to boys and girls ages 5-8 who are able to ride a bicycle without training wheels. Youngsters will be brought through a fun filled course that uses obstacle courses to teach the riders bicycle handling skills and safety as well as track riding basics. Saturdays 9-10 am or 10-11 am. Session 1: Registration closes on May 8th at 11:45 p.m. thevelodrome.com.

OUTDOOR ADVENTURE Family Night - Jacobsburg Environmental Education Center. Bring your family along for an evening outdoor adventure followed by a craft. On the second Friday of each month they will explore a different topic, from frogs, to butterflies, to hiking at night. On May 9th, we will be investigating the different trees and plants that grow at Jacobsburg. Be prepared to walk on muddy trails.

This program is best for families with children ages 5 and up.

Registration is required. May 9, 6:30 – 8 pm. 400 Belfast Rd, Nazareth, 18064. www.dcnr.state.pa.us

Rock N’ Run 4 Kids. 5K Run & Kids Fun Run at Coca-Cola Park.

A fun and challenging 5K run starting at Coca-Cola Park with a fantastic finish inside the ball park at home plate. Entertainment along the course, t-shirts, cash prizes and age group awards and fabulous raffles. Kids age 12 and under will enjoy their fun run.

To cheer them on the Iron Pigs mascots will run alongside them.

Benefits the Salvation Army Children’s Services for children who are victims of abuse and neglect in the Lehigh Valley. ROCKIN’ LIVE PERFORMANCE by Craig Thatcher & Nyke Van Wyk. www. rocknrun4kids.com

Together We Build Strong Families

The road ahead is filled with bumps and curves.

Arm them with healthy habits for life.

The Lehigh Valley Road Runners Kids Series is a FREE event offered to children ages 3-14 in the Lehigh Valley. During the summer, bring your kids to the Little Lehigh Parkway to participate in the 15th Annual Kids Series, and event just for kids!

2014 Dates: • May 17th • June 14th • June 21st • July 5th • July 19th • August 2nd

2 Free Days of Care at No Risk (subject to availability)

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Offering Infant Care, Toddler Care, PreSchool and PreK, Before and After School, Summer Camp, and Martial Arts.

Learn more and register at www.LVRR.org/Races/Kids-Series

Active Learning Centers thanks you for voting us “Favorite Daycare”

Presenting Sponsor: Locations in Emmaus, Fogelsville, Breinigsville, and Trexlertown Call 484-397-4095 today or visit us online alcchildcare.com!

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www.LehighValleyFamily.com

FUN THINGS TO DO Jacobsburg Horseback Trail Rides. Enjoy Jacobsburg’s 1000+ acres of beautiful trails in small groups on the back of a horse!

Ride through the woods, fields, and alongside of a stream on our gentle, well-mannered horses, with our knowledgeable and safety conscious trail guides! Must call for reservations and directions: 610-730-4973. May 23, 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm. www.

AmazingJacobsburgTrailRides.webs.com

Cinderella. Cinderella discovers her own magic with the help of her Fairy Godmother, a handsome prince, and a lively cast of characters – much to the dismay of her stepsisters. An enchanting adaptation designed to delight families with kids from three to tween. Meet the cast after every performance of pictures and autographs. May 30 – August 2. Schubert Theatre, DeSales University. www. pashakespeare.org.

HISTORY Abraham Lincoln’s Journey to Greatness, Lehigh Valley Heritage Museum. Discover the fascinating life of our nation’s sixteenth President. Hands-on activities help children learn about Lincoln. 432 W Walnut St., Allentown, PA. www. lehighvalleyheritagemuseum.org

FESTIVALS 2nd Annual A Youthful Spring Fair. Banana Factory - Crayola Gallery. Children’s events: face painting, arts and crafts, finger nail painting, games, raffle baskets, vendor tables and much more. Free.

25 W. 3rd Street, Bethlehem. May 24, 2014 at 12:00 pm – 4:00 pm. www.nobleangelsinc.com.

THEATRE Alice in Wonderland. This classic tale of rabbit holes and wonder has been loved by generations, and this season PYT brings it back for a fully re-imagined production. From the Mad Hatter’s tea party to the Cheshire grin, Lewis Carroll’s classic will come to life with all the magic, mystery and mischief of the original novel. Charles Brown Ice House, 56 River St., Bethlehem. May 9 – 18. See website for show times. 123pyt.tix.com

L o o k i n g for Adventure?

No Need to Go Far!

Leaser Lake Boats, Bikes & Bait has everything you need for outdoor adventure minutes from home.

• Kayak • Canoe • Paddleboard • Rowboat • Classes • Bikes • Jogging Strollers • Fishing Gear • Bait

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Make a Day of it!

Pack a lunch and spend the day at Leaser Lake.

Picnic area, ample parking, adequate facilities and gorgeous surroundings combine to make a great day outdoors.

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Mayfair Festival of the Arts 2014. Come to the 2014 Mayfair Festival in our new home on the grounds around Ag Hall at the Allentown Fairgounds, Allentown, Pennsylvania. FREE PARKING! We feature many genres of music and performing arts. Our Artist Markets include painting, sculpture, jewelry, photography, pottery and so much more. We also feature a large variety of food vendors.

Friday, May 23th – Monday May26th. www.mayfairfestival.org/.

Wildlands Conservancy Creating lasting connections to nature since 1973.

THE LEHIGH VALLEY’S NONPROFIT LAND TRUST

ON SAVEMER M U S !

CAMP

OEFF 10% R O F E B MAY 3

Leaser Lake BOATS, BIKES & BAIT 8912 Levans Road, Kempton, PA 19529.

www.

LeaserLake.com

Find us on Facebook Main Office: 3701 Orchid Place, Emmaus, PA 18049 610.965.4397 www.wildlandspa.org

www.LehighValleyFamily.com • Lehigh Valley Family

COLOR VERSION Tail blue: 40C 30M 0Y 0K Body blue: 38C 0M 15Y 0K Board blue: 100C 96M 0Y 8K

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