Flourish His Side March 2014

Page 1

Flourish North Florida MARCH 2014 Volume 1 Issue 12 www.MYFLOURISHMAGAZINE.COM

March Madness

M a g a z i n e

The Gators

Chance the

PRST-STD U.S. POSTAGE PAID Tall ahassee, FL permit #296

Big Dance

Postal Customer

FLIP FOR mor e flourish

Quote here. Person Name

Flourish Magazine | Nov/2012

2



The Green House Nursery

spring into

Outdoor living 352.472.3699 | thegreenhousenurseryfl.com 15207 West Newberry Road | Newberry FL 32669


Well, hello again! Spring bodes more than just sunny skies and warm weather – St. Patty’s Day and March Madness are back, too! In this issue, see if your top picks match ours with our 2014 March Madness breakdown. We look at this year’s Big Dance contenders, offer snapshots of potential sleepers and, of course, lead with a heavy dose of the Florida Gators’ chances. Of course, basketball isn’t the only madness we’re seeing this season. Crazy coworkers, an outdated kitchen and needless home wastes are driving us over the edge. Luckily, we’ve got tips to help you streamline your work, your home and your life so that you can ease life’s burdens and start fresh this spring. With all the excitement of local sports, growing business and beautiful days in Gainesville this season, we’ve got a good feeling and are glad to be sharing it with you!

8JOOFS 2013

"XBSE PG &YDFMMFODF FROM THE

Lauren Douglass As always, we love 8JOOFS hearing from you. 2013

4

Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Lauren Douglass Marc Douglass

Managing Editor Sarah Mason

Copy Editor Daniel Sutphin

Assistant Editor Mike Capshaw

Art Director Daniel Tidbury

Graphic Design Daniel Tidbury Jane Dominguez Patrice Kelly Teresa Gresh Becky Snowden

Promotions Amanda Liles Karen Jones Annmarie Defeo Anita Knittel

Accounting Lynsey Parrish

Circulation Adam Simmons

Special Projects Lauren Kolansky Daniel Sutphin

Advertising Director Shane Howell (Shane@Whpinc.Com)

Advertising & Sales Shane Howell Mike Capshaw Susan Noddle

Writers Debora Dyess Ginger Henderson Kevin Kage Heather Aulisio Kristy Wyatt Tyler Stevenson Connie Holubar Danielle Boudreau Kat Freestone Lauren Kolansky Katie Moss Katelyn Vilardel Truman Carter Kelly Herman

"XBSE PG &YDFMMFODF

So send us a note at mail@whpinc.com FROM THE

What’s Inside… 6 St. Patricks Day Fun for the Whole Family 8 History Alive at the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire 10 Is Obamacare Right For Me 11 W hat’s Happening: Local Business 13 Kitschy Kitchen

Publishers

14 Waste Watchers 16 A Guide to March Madness 18 All Sports Report 20 Lacrosse is Boss 23 Memory Garden 24 Gainesville Gardening and Preparedness Network 26 Gadgets

28 Safety First 30 Saving for College vs. Retirement 31 7 Crazy Coworkers 32 Gainesville Adventure Time 33 Farewell Food Waste 34 Lights and Sirens: What to Do When You’re Pulled Over

For advertising opportunities, please contact us at 352-371-5881 or sales@whpinc.com. Magazine subscriptions are available at www.whpinc.com For subsciption related questions or concerns, please call 352-371-5881. www.whpinc.com

It was the experience of mystery – even if mixed with fear – that engendered religion. Albert Einstein



St. Patrick’s Day

fun

for the whole family

By Ginger Henderson

While St. Patrick’s Day may bring to mind rowdy fun and pints of green beer, this holiday doesn’t have to be for adults only. Here are a few ideas that will pass the luck ‘o the Irish on to the whole family. To welcome the start of the lucky day, prepare a special surprise for your kids’ breakfast – green eggs! Whisk eggs in a bowl with a little salt and pepper, then stir in two or three drops of blue food coloring. Scramble in a pan over medium heat and voilà – a festive start to a fun day. Over breakfast, share the legend of the leprechaun (see insert) with your children. After school, let the celebration continue with a leprechaun scavenger hunt. To play, prepare cards with clues for your children to find during their hunt. (Try your hand at writing limericks to give your clues an Irish feel.) Have the “leprechaun” hide these cards to lead your child on a fun and exciting chase. At the end of the hunt, have your child discover the leprechaun’s “treasures” (golden coins made of foil covered chocolates or crayons in all the colors of the rainbow, for example).

After running around, it’s time to settle down with a quick and easy four leaf clover crafting activity. Press a heart shaped cookie cutter into a halved potato. While the cutter is still in place, use a paring knife to cut away the potato from around the heart. Remove the cutter, and squeeze green paint onto a paper plate. Have your child press the potato stamp into the paint and then onto a sheet of construction paper. Turn the paper a quarter turn and have your child stamp again, keeping the points of the hearts touching. Continue stamping until a four leaf clover is formed. Have your child use a paintbrush or finger to swipe a bit of paint to create a stem.

And don’t forget… March 15th marks the date for the 5th annual Run for Haven in the Tioga Town Center. Bring the whole family for a day of food, drinks and live music. The 5K run and 10K walk will both feature a St. Patrick’s Day theme, and proceeds from the event will benefit Haven Hospice. To learn more, visit http://www.havenhospice.org/ haven-run.aspx

The Legend of the Leprechaun While they may look like little old men, would you believe that leprechauns are actually fairies? They may not have wings, but that doesn’t mean they can’t fly! Leprechauns move so quickly that humans usually can’t even see them. Instead of spending their time flitting about in the woods, leprechauns prefer to spend their days getting into mischief. They’re not bad – not really. They just like to have fun, and sometimes they get a little carried away. Legend has it that leprechauns always carry a bit of gold with them, just in case they find

6

Flourish Magazine | March/2014

How to Write a Limerick A limerick is a short poem, usually humorous, that consists of three long lines and two short lines. In a limerick, the rhyming pattern is an “AABBA” pattern, in which the first two lines rhyme, the second two lines rhyme, and the final line rhymes with the first two lines. For example: There once was a man from Peru Who dreamed he was eating his shoe. He awoke in a fright In the dead of the night To find it was perfectly true. - by Edward Lear

themselves in a fix. While they’re nearly impossible to catch, if they do find themselves in a bind they will toss out their gold to distract the human who is chasing them. They certainly don’t want to be caught. Catching a leprechaun entitles the lucky person to one wish. As long as they’re not caught, the leprechauns get to keep all these wishes to themselves, so they’re very careful not to lose such a precious gift. For many years people have tried to catch leprechauns. While a few claim to have been successful, no one really knows whether or not their claims are true. The only way to find out for sure is to try to catch one yourself.

If everything seems under control, you’re just not going fast enough. Mario Andretti


Would you like to experience the benefits of Dental Implants? Improved appearance. Dental implants look and feel like your own teeth. And because they are designed to fuse with bone, they become permanent.

Improved speech. With poor-fitting dentures, the teeth can slip within the mouth causing you to mumble or slur your words. Dental implants allow you to speak without the worry that your teeth might slip.

Improved comfort. Because they become part of you, implants eliminate the discomfort of removable dentures.

Easier eating. Sliding dentures can make chewing difficult. Dental implants function like your own teeth, allowing you to eat your favorite foods with confidence and without pain. Improved self-esteem. Dental implants can give you back your smile and help you feel better about yourself.

Improved oral health. Dental implants don’t require reducing other teeth, as a tooth-supported bridge does. Because nearby teeth are not altered to support the implant, more of your own teeth are left intact, improving your long-term oral health. Individual implants also allow easier access between teeth, improving oral hygiene. Implant don’t get cavities and never need a root canal.

Durability. Implants are very durable and will last many years. With good care, many implants last a lifetime.

Convenience. Removable dentures are just that; removable. Dental implants eliminate the embarrassing inconvenience of removing your den-tures, as well as the need for messy adhesives to keep your dentures in place.

< Marilyn before, age 68 See my story at ExceptionalDentistry.com

The patient and any other person responsible for payment has the right to refuse to pay, cancel payment, or be reimbursed for a payment for any other service, examination or treatment which is performed as a result of and within 72 hours of responding to the advertisement for free, discounted fee, or the reduced fee, service, examination or treatment. ADA D9310.

PLUS...IV S edation available! G et a

FRE E S econd Opinion!

( $ 109 Value)

Proud UF ALUMNI Patients come to Exceptional Dentistry from all parts of Florida to experience Dr. Art and Kim Mowerys’ world class quality and service in cosmetic, reconstructive, implant and sedation dentistry. The doctors were

4960 Newberry Road, #220 • Gainesville (Next to Gainesville Health & Fitness)

(352) 332-6725

ExceptionalDentistry.com Drs. Art and Kim Mowery have been featured in:

featured in Newsweek magazine’s “10 Nationwide Leaders in Dentistry and Surgery” showcase in the December 2011 national edition.

Isn’t this the type of dentistry you deserve? Drs. Art and Kim Mowery


History

Alive Hoggetowne

at the

Medieval Faire

8

Flourish Magazine | March/2014

The Alachua County Fairgrounds transformed into a rowdy medieval bazaar this past month during the 28th Annual Hoggetowne Medieval Faire. Over the course of the event, families flocked to experience the magic of street performers, musicians, actors, jousters, jugglers, dancers and more. Mounted knights in full suits of armor paraded through the marketplace while more than 160 artisans showed off their skills in weaving, leatherworking, blacksmithing, woodcarving and pottery. Kids and parents alike enjoyed stepping back in time to experience all the wonders the Hoggetowne Medieval Faire had to offer.

Obstacles are those frightful things you see when you take your eyes off your goal. Henry Ford


r o f e c r u o s r You ! e s i d n a h c r e logo m

WWW.WHATSHAPPENING PROMOTIONS.COM

352-371-5881

PART OF


Is Obamacare right for me? Like many others, you may feel confused by the rollout of the Affordable Care Act, the unfamiliar jargon and the ins and outs of the healthcare system. If you’re wondering how the Affordable Care Act affects you and whether or not you should sign up, you aren’t alone! Most people must have a health plan by January 1, 2014. If you do not, you may have to pay a new minimal tax that increases in the years to come. Here, we’ve outlined a few common scenarios to help you navigate the road to affordable healthcare. By Steve Jenkins of Three Rivers Insurance

Is Obamacare Right for Me? “I have health insurance through my job.” If you are insured through your work, you can rest easy. It’s likely that no action is needed on your part since most companies will continue to offer health insurance.

“I don’t have health insurance.” If you are currently without health insurance, you should know that new legislation requires most people to either pick a plan or pay a penalty tax. Though this tax is currently minimal, it’s expected to increase in years to follow. The good news is that you may be able to get help from the government to pay for part of your healthcare.

“I have health insurance through my job, but I’d really like to get help paying the premiums. Can I do this via a government subsidy or tax credit?” It depends. At this point, if a “Qualified Health Plan” – one that meets the new standards set forth by Obamacare – is available to you either by your employer or your spouse’s employer, you are not eligible for a subsidy 10 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

or tax credit from the government. However, if the healthcare plans that are available to you do not meet the requirements set forth by Obamacare, you may qualify for an individual plan with help paying the premiums.

“When should I apply for health insurance?” There’s no better time than the present. Currently, an application that’s submitted to HealthCare.gov (also known as the Market Place) between February 16th and March 15th will become effective on April 1st. Applications submitted between March 16th and March 31st become effective on May 1st. In other words, there’s a time gap between the date you submit your application and the date your healthcare actually kicks in. After March 31st, the next available open enrollment period begins October 1st, 2014.

“Can I sign up directly online or should I use an insurance agent?”

health plan. They can walk you through the advantages and disadvantages of each plan and provide quick access to the Market Place, which is valuable since many users have experienced trouble accessing and navigating the site. They’ll also help you determine what subsidy or tax credit you qualify for to help pay part of your health insurance premium. Once the subsidy amount is determined, the agent will then be able to direct an individual back to the health insurance company website for a plan selection and initial application. In addition, once an individual’s health insurance plan is in place, an agent will be able to assist with many issues you may have going forward. This information has been provided by Steve Jenkins of Three Rivers Insurance. You can reach their offices at 386-454-1642 or www.bsitri.com

Using an insurance agent is recommended because agents are licensed by the State of Florida and has been certified by the Market Place and know the benefits specific to each I’ll sleep when I’m dead. Warren Zevon


Local By Mike Capshaw

What’s Happening

Complete Nutrition’s Locations Switch and a New Thai Restaurant highlight what’s happening in local business Phil Wright, general manager of Complete Nutrition, can come up with a nutritional plan to fit any customer’s needs. Photo by Mike Capshaw

Each time Phil Wright tried to answer, his response was cut short by another customer opening the glass doors. After a few interruptions, Wright didn’t need to complete his thought. The answer to why Complete Nutrition switch venues from inside the Oaks Mall to Archer Road was as clear as the doors. “The location is great,” Wright said. “We’ve been getting a lot of walk-throughs from people who work around here or were stopping in at one of the other businesses (nearby). And it’s a lot closer to campus and students are one of the markets where there is a lot of interest in sports nutrition and general nutrition.” Described as an “upscale nutritional supplement retail store,” Complete

Taste of Thai One of the few underserved restaurant types in Gainesville is authentic Thai food cuisine, but that should change with the early February opening of Bangkok Square at 6500 SW Archer Road, Suite J, next to Beef O’ Brady’s. The owners are Grace and Peter Preechachaow, who moved to the U.S. from Thailand 12 years ago. The menu includes an assortment of appetizers, curries, noodles, desserts, soups, salads and traditional Thai dishes. There’s also a sushi bar and “Chef’s Signature Dish” dinner entrees, which range in price from 14.95 to

Nutrition’s goal is to “help each customer look better, feel better and perform better every day.” The Gainesville store, located at 3411 SW Archer Road, is part of a four-store expansion in Florida by an ownership group based in Omaha, Neb. The others are in Tallahassee, Cape Cod and Port Orange. During the interview, each customer came in with a different desire. The first was starting a weight loss program, the second wanted supplements to help her and her boyfriend tone up, the third needed vitamins to improve his general health and the fourth – sporting a muscle-T and all – was a repeat customer refilling his body building boosters. Each had a different body type – everything from round to toned to chiseled – but each left satisfied with their individual need fulfilled.

19.95, featuring Siam Chicken, Frog Legs, Tornado Shrimp, Bangkok Duck and Snapper Lad Prig, which is offered at “market price.”

Walmart Joins Coalition Walmart became the first major corporation to join the Coalition of Immokalee Workers’ Fair Food Program. The initiative, which has made headlines in Gainesville in recent years because of multiple campaigns and protests that have tried unsuccessfully to pressure Publix to join the campaign, requires Walmart’s tomato suppliers in Florida to increase worker pay while also protecting them from forced labor and sexual assault, among other things.

When you gaze long into the abyss, the abyss also gazes into you. Friedrich Nietzsche

Perhaps the best part about Complete Nutrition was not the wide range of cutting edge products, but the customer experience. Without hesitation, Wright offered feedback on a wide array of questions about individual needs and goals. With something for everyone and every body, the Complete Nutrition name is fitting. The customer service provided by Wright and others is also part of the Complete Nutrition experience as every location employs “certified personal trainers, former strength coaches and experienced fitness professionals in order to best assist customers.” It’s helped Complete Nutrition become one of fastest-growing franchises with more than 150 locations in more than 30 states since it began in 2004.

“Not only will thousands of hard-working farmworkers see concrete improvements to their lives, but millions of consumers will learn about the Fair Food Program and a better way to buy fruits and vegetables grown and harvested here in the U.S.,” coalition spokesman Cruz Salacio told the AP.

New Sushi Bar Liquid Ginger hosted a “Grand Reopening” but not much has changed for owner Jeff Lin. The reopening was because the restaurant that’s located inside the Sun Center downtown has added a sushi bar, where patrons can watch a chef prepare their meals.

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 11


STOP CHILDREN’S CANCER PRESENTS THE FANTASY EVENT

SAVE—the—DATE

SATURDAY, APRIL 5, 2014 AT 7 PM

STEPHEN C. O’CONNELL CENTER, GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA BELLES & BOWTIES IS A CELEBRATION OF GAINESVILLE’S RICH TRADITIONS OF YESTERDAY AND HOPE FOR A BRIGHT TOMORROW. ————————————

Join us for an evening to raise funds, awareness and support for pediatric cancer research at the University of Florida’s Pediatric Hematology/Oncology Division. This event features live music, dancing, Vegas-style gaming, delicious food and an open bar.

#bellesbowties

For event details, sponsorship, volunteer and silent auction opportunities, please contact Stop Children’s Cancer at (352) 377-2622 or visit StopChildrensCancer.org.


By Kat Freestone

Kitschy Kitchen

Update your kitchen on a budget

The kitchen. It’s a place of food and laughter. It’s a place of spilt milk, family traditions and full bellies. Of all the rooms in your home, the kitchen is one you’ll make memories in, nurture your family in and, naturally, spend lots of time in. If your kitchen is outdated, it’s no wonder why you might crave a makeover, but can it be done on a tight budget? The answer to that question is a resounding “yes!” There are dozens of ways to update your kitchen without spending a fortune. Here are a few of our favorites:

Hardware Happy

Light Fixture Fix

While ripping out and replacing your cabinets may be out of the question, there’s one simple way to give your cupboards a facelift – new hardware. It’s amazing the difference this little – and inexpensive – change can make. Pick cabinet knobs that complement your kitchen’s existing hardware for a quick and effective makeover.

These days, light fixtures come in every color, shape and size. Get creative with your kitchen lights to make the place pop! If you’re really looking to save money, try spray-painting your existing fixtures a fun, modern color, and add brighter bulbs to brighten up the space.

Faucet Facelift Leaky, rusty faucets are an eyesore, not to mention, they aren’t sanitary! Update yours for a modest fee to bring your kitchen back up to date. While huge faucets and sprayers are ‘in’ with some kitchen designers, you’re better off with a sleek faucet made with quality materials and an ergonomic design to enhance your pro-style kitchen.

Updated Outlet To add a sleek, high quality design to any kitchen, here’s a simple, budget-friendly trick: replace existing outlet covers with stainless steel ones. This easy weekend project will add a contemporary look to your kitchen without the hefty price tag. Updating a kitchen on a budget is easy. With a little planning and creativity, you’ll be well on your way.

Everyone is a genius at least once a year; a real genius has his original ideas closer together. Georg Lichtenberg

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 13


Reduce, reuse and recycle

It’s a motto that’s engrained into the minds of our children and the heart of our nation. As we grow to understand the impact waste has on our world, we’ve learned to take a proactive approach against littering and pollution. And yet, not everyone takes the three R’s to heart. Only 2 percent of all waste is recycled each year, though nearly 50 percent of the trash in your bin can be recycled or composed. It’s a gap Waste Watchers is determined to close.

Waste Watchers Interview by Sarah G. Mason

“We’re called the Alachua County Office of Waste Alternatives, though Waste Watchers is our nickname,” says Patrick Irby, Waste Alternatives Manager at the Alachua County Office of Waste Alternatives. “Our main goal is to reduce the amount of waste that Alachua County residents and businesses put in the landfill.” There are many obvious reasons to recycle. It preserves our resources, protects wildlife and helps reduce greenhouse gas emissions. There are a few not-so-obvious reasons to recycle, too. “As a tax payer, one of the most important reasons to recycle is that it will reduce the amount of waste we send to the landfill,” says Irby. “A lot of people don’t know this, 14 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

but Alachua County doesn’t have an active landfill. We have to pay for every ton of waste that gets disposed of – that’s millions of dollars every year.” Not only will reducing our landfill use decrease our spending, but once waste is collected, it becomes a marketable commodity – it’s actually worth money. So why don’t all Alachua County residents recycle? “I think everyone has their own roadblocks to recycling,” says Irby. “Part of it is a lack of education, but we try to overcome that by educating the public on what can be recycled and why it’s important. Apart from that, everyone has a reason why they do what they do. For some, recycling just isn’t convenient. “

Of all the recyclable materials that Gainesville residents throw away, Irby says paper tops the list. Cereal boxes, cardboard boxes and junk mail wind up in the trash when they could be reused. “Paper waste is a really easy one for us to recycle, but it’s still being thrown away. I think encouraging more families to get that into a recycling bin is a priority for us. As for other ways you can reduce waste around the house, it’s a really good idea to start a compost pile. That can cut down about a third of your garbage.” To learn more about Waste Watchers, recycling or their community involvement, visit thewastewatcher.com

To learn more about Tools for Schools, a reusable resource center that provides new and gently used educational supplies to Alachua County Public School teachers at no cost, visit alachuacounty.us and search “Tools for Schools”

Success usually comes to those who are too busy to be looking for it. Henry David Thoreau


NO OPEW N!

How to start a

Compost Pile By Sarah G. Mason

AMENITIES INCLUDE

s #/-0,)-%.4!29 (/4 "2%!+&!34 "5&&%4 s s &,!4 0!.%, 46 s #/-0,)-%.4!29 7) &) s s 2%&2)'%2!4/2 -)#2/7!6% s /54$//2 0//, s s .%!2 4(% 5.)6%23)49 /& &,/2)$! s

Compost piles are designed to speed up the breakdown of organic materials. Starting your own is an easy way to reduce home waste! • I n a compost bin, add a layer of dry brown organic matter like leaves, straw and shredded newspaper. • Top that with several inches of green materials like grass clippings, vegetable peelings, fruit rinds and other plantbased kitchen materials • Add a shovel or two of garden soil and wet the pile with water from the hose. • Stir it all with a shovel every few weeks and watch as the materials decompose!

GET 20% OFF When you request the rate code: “LQFL� or mention the Flourish discount.

Not valid with any other coupons, ads or promotions. Expires 04/01/2014.

If you’re planning a large event and need resources to make waste and recycling collection easier, contact the Alachua County Waste Management Division at (352) 374-5213

While we are postponing, life speeds by. Seneca

352.332.8292 WWW.BAYMONTGAINESVILLE.COM 6901 NW 4TH BLVD, GAINESVILLE, FLORIDA 32607

I-75 EXIT 387 Flourish Magazine | March/2014 15


NCAA BASKETBALL TOURNEY When: March 18 to April 7 Format: Single-elimination Number of teams: 68 teams Number of games: 67 games Reigning champion: Louisville Television: CBS, TBS, TNT, TruTV Gainesville’s own Scottie Wilbekin overcame an early season suspension and a pair of ankle injuries to become a favorite to win the SEC’s Most Valuable Player award. Photo by Jim Burgess

By Mike Capshaw

Guide to

March Madness Breaking down the favorites, the sleepers and, of course, the Gators chances in the Big Dance March Madness causes insanity among bosses across the country as they try – often unsuccessfully – to keep employees on task. While many executives tremble at the thought of lost productivity from office pools, some see the NCAA Basketball Tourney as a welcome diversion from the everyday grind. Heck, even President Obama’s bracket gets posted on the White House website. Predicting the winners of all 67 games is such a rare feat that a pair of Warren Buffett backed companies announced a $1 billion award for the person(s) who fills out a perfect bracket this year. With the field expanding to 68 teams in 2011, the odds of Buffett cutting that check are 147.5 quintillion to 1. In an effort to improve readers’ odds, Flourish magazine has put together a guide of teams to watch in this year’s field. We’ll break down the favorites, offer snapshots of potential sleepers and, of course, lead with a heavy dose of the Florida Gators’ chances.

FLORIDA GATORS

SYRACUSE ORANGE

Last season: Lost 79-59 against Michigan in the Elite Eight Résumé: Non-conference wins against Kansas, Memphis and Florida State. The Skinny: For Billy Donovan to become just the sixth coach to win three national titles, the Gators will need to stay composed and focused through the early rounds by shattering any potential Cinderella teams’ glass slippers. Teams will be gunning for Florida, which looked fitted for a top seed at press time, so avoiding an early round upset will result in a fourth consecutive Elite Eight appearance. To get beyond that, Gainesville native Scottie Wilbekin must continue priming the Gators’ arsenal of weapons, which includes Casey Prather, Patric Young, Dorian Finney-Smith and Michael Frazier II. Freshmen Kasey Hill and Chris Walker should help, too, if they can handle the pressure of playing on the largest stage of their young careers. It’s important to note that this team tied a school-record for the fastest to 20 wins and also have five players averaging double figures in scoring, feats matched only by UF’s national title squads of 2007 and 2008.

Last season: Lost 61-56 against Michigan in the Final Four Résumé: Win against Baylor, Villanova, Duke and Pitt (twice) The Skinny: Receiving every No. 1 vote in both national polls, the Orange took over the top spot late in the season, and for good reason. They rolled unbeaten (at press time) through their first year playing in the always-tough ACC, sweeping perennial powerhouses Duke, Pitt and Virginia. They’ve been strong at home, on the road and at neutral sites, which is notable considering the entire NCAA tourney is played on neutral courts. Despite being the probable No. 1 overall seed at press time, Syracuse’s players believe they’re still fighting for respect from national pundits.

We only ask that you split the check with us when you win Buffett’s big bucks. 16 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Where are we going, and why am I in this handbasket?. Bumper Sticker


The outside shooting of sophomore Michael Frazier II could be a major difference for the Gators in their quest for third National Championship. Photo by Jim Burgess

ARIZONA WILDCATS Last season: Lost 73-70 against Ohio State in the Elite Eight Résumé: Defeated Duke and Michigan The Lowdown: Won first 21 games of the season before losing two of the next four during an early February slide. Both losses were on the road, at California and in double overtime at Arizona State, so the Wildcats will need to regain their early season form by tourney time if they are to live up to this season’s expectations. They were penciled in as the odds-on favorite for a national title early on because of a deep, talented roster that is more than capable of stringing together enough wins. If they heat up again heading into the Big Dance, the ‘Cats could be the team to beat. A favorable seeding should have the Wildcats playing in a West Coast region, which should help with fan support. They’ve not been great in unfriendly confines.

DUKE BLUE DEVILS Last season: Lost 85-63 against Louisville in Elite Eight Résumé: Defeated Michigan, NC State and Pitt The Skinny: It’s tough to count out any Mike Krzyzewski coached team, and the Blue Devils are always coached by the living legend who has won four national titles and made 11 Final Four appearances. Once again, Krzyzewski has put together a smart and skilled squad that appears to be peaking at the right time after a few early setbacks. All season, the media has been calling this a “good, but not great” Duke team, which has given them something to prove. That, along with Krzyzewski’s history, is worth giving the Blue Devils a shot at making the Final Four, and perhaps more. However, don’t overlook their struggles this season on the road and on neutral courts.

SLEEPERS WICHITA STATE SHOCKERS Last season: Lost 72-68 against eventual national champ Louisville in the Final Four Résumé: Beat Saint Louis, Alabama and Tennessee The Lowdown: As a No. 9 seed, the Shockers shocked the college basketball world with several upsets – knocking off No. 1 seed Gonzaga and No. 2 seed Ohio State – on their way to the 2013 Final Four. They’ve rode that wave into this season, winning their first 28 games. Their strength of schedule may keep the Missouri Valley champs out of Final Four talk, despite the likelihood of a No. 1 seed if they remain unbeaten. Only one team, Saint Louis, was among the top 25 nationally, so be weary of picking the Shockers to shock again with another deep run, although last season’s experience should make them a tough out.

SAN DIEGO STATE AZTECS Last season: Lost 73-70 against Ohio State in the Elite Eight Résumé: Wins against Kansas, Creighton and Marquette The Skinny: After getting upset by Florida Gulf Coast in the second round of last season’s tourney, an inspired Aztecs squad has hit the court with a vengeance. Led by senior guard Xavier Thames, they won 20 straight games before being upset 68-62 at Wyoming on Feb. 11. The only other loss was against Arizona on Nov. 14. Despite quality non-conference wins, it’ll be tough for the Aztecs to consistently play at a high enough level to reach the Final Four. Still, they’re a team playing for respect that no one wants to face.

God, please save me from your followers! Bumper Sticker

We’re not sure if we can call these teams sleepers because they’re all top 25 teams, but none were expected to earn a top seed at press time. Some have the potential to earn a No. 1 seed if a few teams ahead of them suffer losses. Regardless, here’s a few more to watch and why we like their chances: Kansas: Struggled through the nation’s toughest schedule but picked up wins against Duke, Kansas State, Iowa State (twice), Baylor and Oklahoma State. Villanova: Wins against Kansas and Iowa, but were exposed during blowout losses against Syracuse and Creighton (twice). Capable of getting hot, though, and may even sneak in as the final No. 1 seed. Louisville: The reigning national champs are capable of peaking at tourney time, something coach Rick Pitno has shown a knack of doing. Michigan State: Tom Izzo is another coach who usually seems to have his teams playing at a high level, and this team is talented. Gonzaga: Because they’re Gonzaga. They’re capable of upsetting anyone despite losing against their only ranked opponent, Memphis, and to the likes of Portland and Dayton. Connecticut: With wins against Florida and Memphis, anything is possible. With six players 6-foot-8 or taller, the Huskies have the size to dominate teams that are weak inside. Wisconsin: Another team with size that knocked off Florida early in the season. The Badgers also have quality wins against Michigan and Michigan State. Kentucky: Looking like the preseason No. 1 team may end up a No. 4 or 5 seed, but the ‘Cats still have lots of young talent and plenty of size to make some noise. Flourish Magazine | March/2014 17


All-Sports

Report Muchamp and Co. put together solid signing class on the heels of 4-win season By Mike Capshaw

College football’s National Signing Day highlights this month’s UF All-Sports Report while several other sports were off to fast starts on their spring seasons. FOOTBALL Following the first losing season since 1979, coach Will Muschamp and his staff still put together a strong 2014 signing class. The Gators, despite coming off a 4-8 season, finished with a Top 10 class, according to national recruiting websites 247Sports, ESPN, Rivals and Scout.

BASEBALL Won two of three games in a seasonopening series against Maryland at home. Sophomore shortstop Richie Martin hit a team-best .455 (5-for-11) during the series with four runs, three RBI and two doubles.

The 24-member class was heavy up front with a total of 11 linemen (6 offensive, 5 defensive) to go along with four defensive backs, three tight ends, two quarterbacks, two receivers, a running back and an all-purpose athlete in Tamp Jefferson’s Deiondre Porter, who projects to play defensive back after lining up at quarterback in high school.

GOLF

Players to watch out of this class are defensive back Jalen Tabor, defensive lineman Thomas Holley and quarterback Will Grier and Treon Harris, who could vie for early playing time under first-year offensive coordinator Kurt Roper.

GYMNASTICS

18 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Led by Santiago Gavino scoring the highest of any individual, three Gators finished among the Top 20 at the 2014 SunTrust Gator Invitational. Florida’s women finished 14th at the Northrop Grumman Regional in Palos Verdes, Calif. Junior transfer Sarah Schober tied for third individually.

The No. 1 Gators stayed unbeaten by defeating No. 11 Arkansas on Feb. 14. Kytra Hunter’s perfect 10.0 on the vault was the fourth consecutive meet in which at least one Gators gymnast scored a 10.0 in an event.

Florida coach Will Muchamp and his staff hauled in one of the top recruiting classes in spite of last season’s struggles. Photo courtesy of UF Communications

LACROSSE Shannon Gilroy slung seven goals in a 21-5 win against Jacksonville in the season opener. The Gators, which entered the season No. 8 nationally, followed it up with an 18-7 win against High Point at home.

SOCCER The Gators opened the spring season with a 5-1 home win against Tampa. Coming off National Rookie of the Year honors last season, sophomore Savannah Jordan completed a hat trick with three goals in the match.

SOFTBALL Florida, ranked No. 1 in one poll, came out of the gates swinging to begin the season 11-0. Lauren Haeger won SEC Player of the Week and SEC Pitcher of the Week honors during the first two weeks of the season. Haeger was batting .394 with four honors and 10 RBI while also posting a 3-0 record with a 1.05 ERA (including a no-hitter) on the mound.

TENNIS After getting upset by No. 16 Northwestern, the No. 2 Florida women bounced back with a victory against No. 6 Southern California at the ITA National Team Indoor Championships. The No. 12 Gators men’s team dropped two of three matches at the ITA, but the lone win was an upset against No. 4 Georgia. Information sourced from UF Communications

First they ignore you, then they laugh at you, then they fight you, then you win. Mahatma Gandhi


H O J O O J 8 E S B "X

.BHB[JOF

"O

8JOOFS 2013

DFMMFODF

"XBSE PG &Y FROM THE

(SBC ZPVS '3&& DPQZ UPEBZ


(Oak Hall action) Oak Hall senior Jake Kirschner tried to gain separation from a Buchholz player during match last season.

LAX FACTS

• Lacrosse is considered America’s oldest sport. Evidence exists that natives played the game well before the English incursion. French settlers in the 1600s gave the sport its name after witnessing tribes such as the Iroquois playing a game with a curve stick (a crosse) and ball. • Nationally, lacrosse has grown nearly 300 percent over the past 11 years as more than 720,000 participated in organized lacrosse in 2012. • More than half of lacrosse players in the country are youth age 15 and under.

Lacrosse Gainesville fastest growing, most popular sport has a foundation for continued growth

More Gainesville teenagers play lacrosse than any other sport. Nicknamed “the fastest sport on two feet,” it’s no wonder lacrosse is catching on with today’s supercharged, short-attentionspanned youth. Locally, lacrosse is barely a decade old at the scholastic level as Oak Hall and PK Yonge fielded the area’s first varsity teams in 2002. It’s also the fastest growing sport in the U.S. as the number of participants playing organized lacrosse has nearly tripled over the past 11 years. More than half of the country’s 720,000 lacrosse players are age 15 and under, and Gainesville has helped that explosion with the addition of middle school and youth programs over the past few years. 20 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Lacrosse’s charm is it appeals to everyone, regardless of build or ability. “It’s not a sport you have to be 6-2, 220 and (run a) 4.4 (40-yard dash) to be good at it,” said RJ Fuhr, owner of Deep South Lacrosse, the only sport-specific retail store in Gainesville. “If you work hard ... you can get away with being smaller and still play in college.” Lynn and Ian Millinoff pioneered Gainesville’s growth. They coach Buchholz High’s girls teams after starting the program in 2007 and also helped launch a league for middle school aged players. “For the boys, it’s kind of an edgy sport,” Ian Millinoff said. “It’s kind of on the fringe of a few different sports and there’s a lot of things to like: They get to run, they get

is boss

to throw with the stick and there’s a lot of hitting involved. I think those are things that appeal to a lot of kids.

By Mike Capshaw

(Buchholz girls) Buchholz girls won the most games (13) in the program’s history in 2013.

“I think lacrosse is the toughest game girls can play. There’s not as much hitting involved, but it’s physical and takes a lot of athleticism.” Evidently, the love for lacrosse begins shortly after a young player picks up a stick. “Once they get that down to where they learn to catch and throw with a stick, it gives them a lot of confidence,” Ian Millinoff said. “That’s not a natural thing that everybody can do.” Oak Hall coach Rick Kirschner has a rich background in the sport, playing at Princeton before a successful coaching

career in his home state of Maryland. Kirschner’s three sons suit up for Oak Hall, the program he took over three years ago while doubling as head of the Upper School. “I started playing in fifth grade and kind of fell in love with it,” said Kirschner, who once wrote ‘Lacrosee is boss!’ on his Facebook page. “(Lacrosse) has grown at a ridiculous rate, especially in Florida, and I think they’ve just added five new varsity teams in the Tampa area.”

Tragedy is when I cut my finger. Comedy is when you walk into an open sewer and die. Mel Brooks


starting a pair of youth club teams, the Gainesville Red Hawks and Florida Generals, after moving from Maryland about a year and a half ago.

Kirschner’s first-hand experience as a player, coach and parent gives him a well-rounded perspective on lacrosse’s draw. “It’s a fast-moving sport,” Kirshner said. “It’s kind of a combination of soccer, hockey and basketball with the strategies, and it’s just a fun game to watch and play.

(Oak Hall team) Oak Hall players are all smiles after winning the 2013 district title. Buchholz was runner-up for the third consecutive season.

“Plus, you don’t see a ton of injuries, even though it’s physical, and I think that’s appealing to parents.” Gainesville’s middle school movement began when Ian Millinoff won a U.S. Lacrosse grant that awarded 20 sets each of boys and girls lacrosse gear. He then spent a week making lunchroom presentations, talking up the sport at each school to form teams. Now, two of the middle schools, Kanapah and

Fort Clarke, field four teams each to accommodate all of the players. The middle school teams are coached by high school players to ensure quality instruction is provided during the five-week season, which begins at the conclusion of the variety season.

With a strong foundation, the future is bright for continued growth among Gainesville’s youth.

“People are finally finding out about it,” Fuhr said. “Once kids get introduced to it, they enjoy it and they stay with it because there is very little downtime and it’s fun to play.”

(Coach Kirschner) Oak Hall coach Rick Kirschner talks to players during a timeout last season.

“Even though the teams are not endorsed by Alachua County Public Schools, the kids are representing their schools and they know it,” Ian Millinoff said. The movement continues to get younger with Jonathan Montez

Luck is the residue of design. Branch Rickey

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 21


group therapy inspires weight loss By Amber Pena, ARNP

Peer Support Can Lead To Success In Changing Lifestyle When one initiates weight loss, the idea of attaining your future goal is exciting. However, starting a weight loss program can be an overwhelming endeavor. One often faces setbacks and can sometimes give up. Support is often the key to success. Group interventions can be some of the most successful

interventions, as peer support is often essential in creating enduring lifestyle change.

Universality. Identifying that one is not alone and often shares similar problems to others. Altruism. Helping and supporting others. Instillation of Hope. A sense of encouragement that recovery is possible. Guidance. Nurturing support and assistance.

According to the prominent group therapist, Irving Yalom, MD, the 11 therapeutic, or curative factors involved in group therapy are defined as “the actual mechanisms of effecting change in the patient.”

Imparting Information. Teaching about a problem and recovery. Developing Social Skills. Learning new ways to talk about feelings, observations and concerns. Interpersonal Learning. Finding out about oneself and others from the group. Cohesion. Feeling of belonging to the group and valuing the group. Catharsis. A release of emotional tension. Existential Factors. Acknowledging that life and death are realities. Imitative Behavior. Modeling another’s manners and recovery skills appropriately. Corrective Recapitulation of Family of Origin Issues. Identifying and changing the dysfunctional patterns or roles one played in their primary family.

Another supportive group experience is yoga. The practice of yoga helps one identify and address the root causes of compulsive behavior. Our past experiences, processed and otherwise, linger in our bodies and hearts. This tension invisibly controls our present-day experiences. As we learn to relax, we are able to see our suffering for what it truly is. All that’s required is a willingness to turn inward, to breathe deeply, and to stay with the sensations in your body.

When considering a weight loss program, look into whether some form of group assistance is offered to promote these powerful agents of change.

Lose 6-8 pounds a month with physician-supervised weight loss!

Safe. Effective. Affordable. Solutions. Weight Loss Solutions has served the Gainesville community for over 10 years. Our safe and effective treatment plans combine diet education, exercise and medication to help patients lose weight and improve health. With weight loss strategies firmly based in medical science, patients can expect successful, long-term weight loss results, always at an affordable cost. Clark McCoy, MD

22 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Matthew Odom, MD

Board Certified Family Physician

Board Certified Family Physician

Elaine Davis, ARNP

Amber Pena, ARNP

Board Certified Family Nurse Practitioner

Board Certified Family/Psychiatric Nurse Practitioner

In any contest between power and patience, bet on patience. W.B. Prescott


YOU’RE NOT ALONE. You’re not alone. That’s the message that seems to touch each and every visitor of Gainesville’s new Memory Garden in Cofrin Nature Park, built for and dedicated to those who have lost a loved one to suicide.

Memory

Garden

By Sarah G. Mason The Survivors of Suicide Memory Garden - created by The Friends of the Crisis Center in conjunction with the City of Gainesville Parks, the Recreation and Cultural Affairs Department and the Alachua County Crisis Center - is meant to be a place of healing. It gives broken families a beautiful haven to meditate and reflect, and it brings together those of us who have lost a loved one to suicide. The garden includes a labyrinth and a remembrance area that contains life-size basalt columns, as well as dozens of unique flowers, butterflies, hummingbirds and private seating areas. The Memory Garden is a beacon of hope for survivors who may struggle with feelings of shock, anger, hopelessness and loneliness. And yet, while the Memory Garden is the answer for some, there are many more ways to begin healing.

The first thing you should know is that, truly, you are not alone. Each year over 33,000 people in the United States die by suicide. According to the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention, 85 percent of us will lose someone we care about to suicide during the course of our lifetime. While these numbers may not lessen the pain, they are an important reminder: you are surrounded by friends, family and a community who can understand, stand by your side and help you heal.

Finally, take healing at your own pace. Reach out to friends and family, let them know you are grieving and ask for their love and patience. Even though it may seem difficult, staying connected with others is important. If you aren’t yet ready to talk about your feelings, keep a journal, write poetry or take up art. Follow your intuition and do what feels best for you. Be kind to yourself and when you feel ready, begin to go on with your life.

Many survivors struggle to comprehend the reasons for suicide. You may ask yourself again and again, “Why?” or “Was there something I could have done?” You should know that 90 percent of all people who die by suicide have a diagnosable psychiatric disorder at the time of their death. Try to bear in mind that suicide is complicated and never blame yourself.

Most people would sooner die than think; in fact, they do so. Bertrand Russell

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 23


Gainesville

Gardening and Preparedness Network Interview by Sarah G. Mason

The homegrown movement is quickly gaining speed. Today, more and more people are shopping local, eating local and now growing local – just ask Kelly Carvallis, founder of the Gainesville Gardening and Preparedness Network. Carvallis created the network with one idea in mind – to connect regular citizens like you and me as we learn how to survive without a supermarket. “When I first started the group a few years ago, I had the urge to learn how to grow my own food for economic and sustainability purposes,” says Carvallis. “I wanted my group to stand out, so over time I’ve expanded it to include other topics in addition to gardening. We cover water filtration, foraging, livestock, hunting, fishing, trapping and more.” According to Carvallis, anyone can grow their own food. It just takes a bit of practice.

24 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

“For beginners, I’d say start small. If you have no experience at all, container vegetables are always a good place to start. Also, you want to pick the right season for the right vegetable. Some people think that you can grow anything at any time, but you probably don’t want to be growing tomatoes in the winter.. You can experience discouragement pretty quickly when everything you plant keeps dying on you. The trick is to know when to grow what and to start small.” Of course, a bit of help from a gardening community couldn’t hurt along the way. It’s one of the many benefits of becoming a member of the Gainesville Gardening and Preparedness Network. “The community is part of the benefit of our group,” says Carvallis. “On top of learning about gardening, the network itself has something to offer. I think it’s amazing how things grow so differently from High Springs down to Ocala. Not only is the climate different, but even our backyard microclimates are different. My backyard may grow something

completely different that yours. By joining together as a community, we’re able to share experiences and seeds. We’ve got a very good source for local plants than thrive here.” And their community is only growing. As more and more people gain an interest in where their food comes from, we’ve begun to see a spike in the demand for both knowledge and seeds. “I think the home growing trend will only continue to expand in this direction,” says Carvallis. “As more people learn about big factory farms, they’ll see how unsustainable they are. More and more people are getting turned off by GMOs and are starting to see how, from an economic standpoint, growing local makes sense and helps save money.” According to Carvallis, the startup fee of growing your own produce will likely cost you more in materials and supplies, but once you’re established, it will pay off. It’s something the Gainesville Gardening and Preparedness Network understand and appreciate as they come together to take control of their food and wellbeing. “This group is for all skill levels, politics aside,” says Carvallis. “We have people from the far left to the far right, but we all find common ground with food issues and sustainability issues. We simply come together as a community without having to worry about the rest.”

Advice is what we ask for when we already know the answer but wish we didn’t. Erica Jong


All About Women OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY

Take Care of You. Leading the Way in Robotic & Laparoscopic Surgery

Happily

Homegrown Do you want to grow your own produce but feel unsure of where to start? Here are a few tidbits to get you started: Keep in mind, gardening is work. It’s rewarding and rejuvenating, but work nonetheless. Growing your own produce will take devotion and attention, so make sure you have the time to set aside. Space is key. Most vegetables should be planted in rows 18 to 24 inches apart, depending on the variety. If this space is unavailable to you, consider plants that grow well in containers, such as cumber (two transplants per 5-gallon container).

AllAboutWomenMD.com

352.331.3332

garden so as not to shade the other plants too much. For spreading vegetable varieties with vines such as snow peas and squash, install a woven wire fence. This is a handy way to increase the space in your garden; train their vines to grow up the trellis in order to clear up space for other veggie types. Start small. It’s best to start with one or two vegetable varieties and to expand from there. Your garden is much more likely to thrive when you focus your time and energy on perfecting the growth of a single plant rather than spreading your resources between too many varieties!

It’s smart to draw a grid. Plot where you’ll be planting what and where the sunlight falls. Remember, bushy type plants need to be planted along the edges of the Wit is educated insolence. Aristotle

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 25


STREET by 50 Active Noise Cancelling Over-ear Headphones Perfect for a long bike ride or hike, each pair eliminates unwanted ambient noise. They also feature a foldable design, custom drivers, soft leather memory foam and up to 70 hours of juice via rechargeable battery.

SYNC by 50 Wireless Speaker

$279.95 smsby50.com

Music is easily portable with this versatile, rechargeable Bluetooth speaker. Featuring omni-directional 3D stereo sound, soft touch sensor control keys, and easy pairing (NFC), it also doubles as a hands-free calling solution.

Gadgets $199.95 smsby50.com

By Amy Smith

Monbento MBSquare This clever box reinvents the art of dining on the move. The box is sealed to keep your food fresh, has a separator to keep your sides segmented and contains 2 airtight containers to separate foods. The box, which is perfect for your favorite meals, comes in green, black, fuchsia and grey for added style. $32 monbento.com

Powerocks Smart Power Equipped with two Micro USB ports, cables and water resistant pouch, this portable and lightweight charger comes in a wide variety of six candy colors and fully charges iPods, iPhones and iPads. $79.99 powerocksusa.com 26 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Egotist: a person more interested in himself than in me. Ambrose Bierce


SYNC by 50 On-Ear Bluetooth Headphones Featuring easy-folding hinges for portability, each pair uses aptx Bluetooth technology for high-quality and wireless sound. Features include memory foam leather ear pads and full onboard mic/controls. Available in red, pink, green, orange, blue, teal and yellow. $229.95 smsby50.com

Silk’n DermBeaute Deep Penetrating Facial Brush Achieve a radiant glow with this water-resistant device which provides spa-treatment results in the comfort of your home. The rotating heads include a cleansing, activation, peeling and micromassage brush. $79.99 www.silkn.com

Gaiam Trampoline Workout System Have fun with a motivating low-impact cardio workout that challenges your cardiovascular system, increases oxygen intake, shapes and tones legs, hips and glutes, and burns fat with the 35-minute workout DVD led by personal trainer Jonathan Roche. The Jump Counter keeps track of jumps made, workout time and approximate calories burned. $99 Gaiam.com.

Salt Sisters r.u.b.s., h.e.r.b and d.i.p.s. Collection Fill your face with the mouth-watering goodness of perfectly seasoned grilled meats, veggies and dressings! This collection of unrefined and unprocessed flavored salts and organic sugar canes are made from responsibly harvested ingredients. $4.25–$11.25 saltsistersonline.com

Comfy Commuter This convenient and of course comfy travel pillow will make you feel like you’re sleeping on a cloud while you soar above them. It provides support for your head, neck and chin, is easily washed and comes with an optional chin strap and attached bag for easy storage. $39.99 comfycommuter.com and Amazon.com.

Show me a woman who doesn’t feel guilty and I’ll show you a man. Erica Jong

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 27


If you have children, you know how curious those little hands can be. When childproofing your home and your life, it’s important to cover all the bases. Here are a few tips to get you started.

Safety By Sarah G. Mason

How to childproof your home and your life

Food’s Fault

First

Your Pool – and the One Next Door Coffee Catastrophe In addition to the “Keep This Door Locked!” reminder taped to your sliding glass door, it’s a good idea to install a mesh gate around the pool itself. And don’t forget about your neighbors’ pools, either. Install alarms on your doors that sound when they’reopened to alert you if your child manages to slip out of the house.

Toxic Materials We often store cleaning products and other hazardous materials in cabinets. It’s absolutely essential that you secure them. Attach latches to the doors and frames to prevent little fingers from prying their way in. 28 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

No matter how desperate you are for a cup of joe, it’s never a good idea to drink hot coffee while holding an infant or toddler. One small tug from an inquisitive hand or a slip over a forgotten toy can easily lead to disaster. It’s better to put the baby down. In addition, move your coffeemaker far back on the counter, wind up the cord and keep your mug out of reach.

Bookcase Blunder A bookcase is a wonderful place to store your favorite novels, photos and family trinkets, but these shelves are a safety hazard. To prevent a bookcase from tipping over, use an anchor harness to secure it to the wall.

You may not think of the refrigerator as a place that needs securing, but glass jars, heavy cartons and raw meat are a few things you definitely don’t want the baby getting his or her hands on. Secure refrigerator doors shut with an appliance latch. In addition, when serving young children, make sure that all food is cut into small pieces and encourage children to sit down – not play – while eating. Nix all small, smooth, round or sticky foods, (e.g. huge globs of peanut butter).

Too-Hot Heater Hot tap water is an out-of-sight safety hazard. Toddlers don’t yet know how to manipulate the faucet to get the water temperature right, which can lead to serious scald burns. There’s no need for tap water to be so hot, so set your water heater temperature to under 120 degrees.

No-No Areas Are some areas of your home just un-babyproofable? We understand Dad’s workshop or Mom’s art room may never be safe for a baby, so there’s a better solution – baby gates. Baby gates are a must for keeping toddlers out of off-limit areas. Most importantly, never leave young children unattended, no matter how well you believe you’ve childproofed an area.

A narcissist is someone better looking than you are. Gore Vidal


Debbie Travis’

By Debbie Travis

House to Home

Carpet Whirl Dear Debbie: I live in a condominium with a 5-foot-by-10-foot balcony off the living area. I would like to put a carpet down to cover up the concrete, but I’ve been told this is not allowed. Do you have any suggestions for making the balcony floor look better? – Andrew Dear Andrew: Your balcony is part of the building’s common elements, and rules do apply regarding your care of the space. When a carpet is soaked with rain and left sitting on concrete to dry, eventually the concrete’s top surface will deteriorate, and the carpet will grow mold and mildew. Proper care, lifting the carpet and turning it to dry thoroughly, or rolling up when rain is expected, is required to prevent problems. Not really what you want, and is why the condo bylaws advise against carpets on balcony floors. There is a solution that does no harm to the existing concrete. There are carpet tiles that fit into an interlocking grid system that raises the carpet 5/8 inch off the floor to allow for drainage and protect against mildew. There are also interlocking porcelain and wood floor tiles that allow standing water to evaporate.

However, be sure to check with your condo board before you start your project to ensure that this solution is acceptable. Dear Debbie: I’m looking for some ideas to fix up a plain (boring) city concrete patio. The concrete is old and cracked, but I am renting, so I’m not able to resurface. I’m not much of a gardener, and the area is very shady, so I can’t grow much in colorful blooms. Thanks for any suggestions. – Rita Dear Rita: You can infuse this space with color in many ways that will elevate its character from plain to punchy. Paint some secondhand wooden garden furniture in bright white or a hot pastel shade. Why not two chairs in funky colors and a tabletop with a bold daisy face? Painting furniture is easy to do, and you can make up any design you like, from crazy bold stripes to circles that overlap. For a more traditional look, you could use a weathered paint effect on the wood and some cushions covered in a brilliant variety of weatherproof fabrics. But don’t stop there. Take your eye away from the cracked gray concrete with an

Wise men make proverbs, but fools repeat them. Samuel Palmer

outdoor carpet in a bright modern design. I spotted a series of fabulous carpets designed by Paola Lenti that are guaranteed to add spice to your setting. The Zoe carpet shown here is a swirl of circles produced by winding Lenti’s signature cord material into spirals and sewing them together to make up the design. The carpet material is very durable and resists fading from sun, sea and swimming pool water. Although you say you are not a gardener, try some pots of shade-friendly flowers such as begonias, lobelia and impatiens. They are low maintenance and produce lots of flowers that have vivid color. Any or all of these ideas will make a getaway patio that is sure to brighten the season. Debbie Travis’ House to Home column is produced by Debbie Travis and Barbara Dingle. Please email your questions to house2home@debbietravis.com. You can follow Debbie on Twitter at www.twitter.com/debbie_travis, and visit Debbie’s new website, www.debbietravis.com.

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 29


Saving for Retirement vs. Saving for College By: Katie M. Moss

Which onpaerents

should

focus on ?

Are you a struggling parent who’s trying to decide whether saving for your children’s future college costs is more or less important than saving for your own retirement? It’s a challenging decision to make, which is why you should begin to think about your options now, even if your children are young. Education costs are rising Online calculators will tell you that you will have to save 600 dollars per month for the next 20 years to fund your child’s education. Especially if you have more than one child, that really adds up and many people simply can’t afford it. Financial advisers across the board recommend placing a high priority on your retirement. This is because the federal financial-aid formula ignores assets in tax-sheltered retirement plans but assesses up to 5.6 percent of other parental assets, so saving for college instead of retirement could actually negatively affect your student. If your employer provides a 401(k) plan, it’s advisable to invest there first, especially if your company matches your contributions. Experts at WellsFargo state that you should put about 15 percent of your income into your retirement fund, or the maximum amount your company allows. If that’s too much of a strain on your budget, try to put enough in to at least reach your employer match, and then move up from there as you can. 30 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Saving for retirement first is especially important if you are less than 20 years away from retirement and have yet to achieve your saving goals. The closer you are to retirement, the more money you should try to contribute.

Just make sure you do it without take away from your own savings. You don’t want your child to have to support you in the future when you run out of cash.

The good news is that when it comes to paying for college, students have many options. From scholarships and grants to parent-funded loans and government loans with special incentives, college may be expensive, but it’s relatively easy to cover.

Cases where you should focus primarily on saving for your child’s education include knowing you will receive an inheritance or you are the beneficiary of an irrevocable trust that will take care of your retirement needs. You may also want to consider focusing on college savings when you have a guaranteed pension, you plan to retire in your later days and start a very beneficial second career or you know that your profession will pay you much more in your later years. In other words, you know that your retirement is definitely covered, and you have extra money to invest in your children.

Of course, if it’s possible, you should certainly consider saving money for your child’s education now. It’s a great idea to begin saving for college as soon as your child is born, if possible. Even putting away 200 to 300 dollars each month for their college fund can really help in the future.

In the end, your decision to save for retirement, college or both is up to you and your significant other. Just make sure you’re thinking with your brain as well as your heart! Everyone wants the best for her kids, but it’s important to make sound financial decisions, as well.

Whatever you do, try not to take a loan from your retirement fund to pay for college. If you lose your job, you will owe that money in full within 30 to 60 days or you will owe taxes and penalties.

The secret of success is to know something nobody else knows. Aristotle Onassis


7

By: Katie M. Moss

Types of

Crazy

Co-workers

Office Gossip

and how best to deal with them

Lunch Thief

Mr. Immunity

Fitness Fanatic

Sex-Pot Cube Squatter

Every office has a cast of its own crazy co-workers. Luckily, you’re a workplace warrior, and you have all the tricks to make things a bit more tolerable: The Fitness Fanatic: Mr. Immunity: You know that guy who never takes a sick day? What he’s really doing is spreading germs when he should be resting at home. So what can you do? Keep the hand sanitizer close and don’t hesitate to give him a gentle nudge when he looks sick. Try saying, “You look like you feel terrible today. I’m sure no one would mind if you went home to rest.”

The Lunch Thief: You can’t count the number of times that your sandwich has gone missing or you reach for your honey mustard and it’s no longer where you left it. Besides labeling your lunch with your name, make management aware of the situation. Stealing shouldn’t be tolerated under any circumstance.

While it’s great to burn some calories on your lunch break, there will always be a few fanatics who take things too far by showing off in their revealing gym clothes or constantly talking about getting their burn on. In these situations, don’t encourage their bragging. Keep conversations brief and excuse yourself quickly – you have work to be doing, after all.

The Cube Squatter: Do you have a co-worker who’s constantly visiting your cube to dish the latest gossip or tell you every detail of her life? It’s not only annoying, it’s distracting, and you have much more important things to do. Try to get out of the conversation gently by saying, “I really have to get back to work. This deadline is looming.” Then put your headphones on and turn away.

It has become appallingly obvious that our technology has exceeded our humanity. Albert Einstein

The Sex-Pot: Unfortunately, some women feel the need to grab attention by wearing revealing clothing; a style that’s both inappropriate and distracting for all of their co-workers. So what’s a savvy-dresser to do? If you’re close friends with the lady in question, try subtly mentioning the situation to her: “Laura, I love your top, but don’t you think it’s a little too dressy for work?” However, the best route to take is probably to alert a team lead or manager. If you object to this person’s attire, others probably do too.

The Office Gossip: There’s one in every office, and they can certainly be tricky to navigate. The solution? Don’t act interested if they attempt to share their secrets, and definitely don’t pass on any of your own. The less engaged you seem, the more likely the Office Gossip will move on. Flourish Magazine hopes these tips help you navigate those grating office personalities. We wish you good luck and encourage you to keep your head up! Flourish Magazine | March/2014 31


Interview by Sarah G. Mason

Gainesville

Adventure

meetup

Meeting new people isn’t easy. That’s what Richard Dreher – founder of Gainesville Adventure Meetup – discovered when he and his wife moved here almost seven years ago.

“My wife works from home, so after we moved she was having a lot of trouble meeting friends,” said Dreher. “We’re not really the ‘go out and drink’ kind of people; we like to be active and have adventures, and we wanted to find others who shared those interests.” Dreher founded Gainesville Adventure Meetup to do just that – get up, get out and meet new people. Within six months of its creation, the online group had over 100 members. “We just kept posting things and eventually we established a good core group of people who like to go out and have fun. Rock climbing is a staple event,” said Dreher. “We’re up to 700 members now.” According to Dreher, their members are a mix of newcomers and regulars who 32 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

all have a common aim – to support the community, make new friends and, of course, have loads of fun. From weekend trips to local events, no adventure is too big or small.

“I think a lot of people are afraid to meet people face to face,” said Dreher. “There’s a lot of texting and emailing and you lose some of that social connection. That’s our mission, to get people up and out and interacting with their community.

“We go to different places around the area,” said Dreher. “We just did a camping trip up in Alabama, we’ve gone to the local wildlife sanctuaries, we’ve gone skydiving, just about anything. We haven’t gone zip lining yet – that’s something I still want to do. We try to keep things as affordable as possible.”

“If people want to get out and meet other people, we’re here for them. Just pick a date come out and have fun.” If you’re interested in learning more about Gainesville Adventure Meetup, visit their website at meetup.com/gainesvilleadventure-meetup

No matter which event you choose to attend, Dreher emphasizes the importance of stepping out of your comfort zone and exploring your community. “It’s important to build up your community and to see what it has to offer,” said Dreher. “A lot of towns have gotten more and more commercialized with big business, and small businesses struggle to keep up. I think it’s important to support your community; those are your neighbors and friends, and if we don’t support them they won’t be here in the long run.” Dreher also stresses the importance of staying active to keep your body in shape and to work on your social skills. Sometimes when reading Goethe I have the paralyzing suspicion that he is trying to be funny. Guy Davenport


Farewell

Freeze It

By Sarah G. Mason

Food Waste Look in your trash; what do you see? A few moldy bananas, half a can of unused chicken broth, yesterday’s leftovers? Though a few wasted items here and there doesn’t seem like much, the Natural Resources Defense Council estimates that 40 to 50 percent of all food ready for harvest in the United States never gets eaten. So, what can we do about it? Look Closely

Organization Is Key

For one week, look carefully at the food you’re throwing away. Are you constantly pitching leftovers? Did you toss an old gallon of orange juice? Next time, prepare less food for dinner and buy a half gallon of orange juice to better suit your needs. Adjust your habits to fit your consumption.

Keeping your fridge organized is a quick way to reduce waste; it helps you see what you have on hand and, more importantly, what’s about to go bad. Keep leftovers and half-eaten items in clear plastic containers and in sight, and make an effort to use them before they expire.

Check Your Settings Set your fridge to an internal temperature of 39 degrees or less to prevent food from spoiling too soon. Consider investing in a fridge thermometer to ensure things stay steady.

Use-It-Up Meal Once a week, design a “use-itup” meal around food that’s soon to go bad. Throw deflated oranges into a smoothie, toss limp asparagus into a quiche or turn those slightly wilted carrots into soup. Casseroles, frittatas, smoothies and soups are all forgiving when it comes to less-than-perfect ingredients, so get creative!

If you’ve got too many leftovers to eat before they go bad, freeze them! Store leftovers in individual servings to make thawing a breeze and freeze extra ingredients (like tomato paste or broth) in ice cube trays for later use.

Buy Local When shopping at the grocery, keep in mind that the produce must travel many miles over the course of several days before it hits the shelves. As a result, its lifespan is significantly reduced. Local produce, on the other hand, is picked soon before purchase, meaning you’ll walk away with fresher, longer-lasting fruits and veggies. With a few daily adjustments, we can all work towards a world with less waste.

gt thngs dne qkr.

connect with 18 million businesses. one app, one site.

download the app today ©2013 YP Intellectual Property LLC. All rights reserved. YP, the YP logo and all other YP marks contained herein are trademarks of YP Intellectual Property LLC and/or YP affiliated companies. All other marks contained herein are the property of their respective owners. 13-26033 PNT_12/23/13

When you have to kill a man, it costs nothing to be polite. Sir Winston Churchill 13-26033 PNT easier said than done_blk CAMPUS TALK MAGAZINE

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 33


Lights and Sirens: What To Do When You’re Pulled Over By Kat Freestone

You’re headed down the freeway, windows down, belting out your favorite song at it streams over the radio. Suddenly, a cop appears behind you, lights a blazin’. You glance at your speedometer – oops. Nobody likes to get pulled over, but believe it or not, these routine traffic stops are just as stressful for the cop as they are for you. Many citizens may not realize how dangerous traffic stops are for officers – according to the National Law Enforcement Officers Memorial Fund, traffic stops are one of the leading causes of police deaths. In a cop’s eyes, every motorist is a threat. When you get pulled over by the police, there are a few rules you should always follow:

Pull over to a safe area.

Turn off the engine and roll down the window. If it’s dark outside, you’ll also want to turn on your dome light; this will allow the officer to see what’s going on inside the car.

Relax. It’s easy to get worked up during a traffic stop – no one wants to be pulled over! Try taking deep breaths and remembering that there’s nothing to be nervous about. In fact, the officer may be more nervous than you!

Keep your hands on the wheel.

Typically, this means the right side of the road. If it’s dark outside, try to stop in a well-lit location. Slow down and put your hazards on so that the officer knows you’ve seen them, and take your time to find a good spot to park.

It’s important to keep your hands in plain sight. If you reach for your glove box, fiddle with your purse or move around in your seat, the officer will assume you’re reaching for a gun. Wait until the officer asks for your paperwork before grabbing your license and registration.

Stay in the car.

Give short yet polite answers.

You don’t want to give the officer any reason to think you’re a threat. Unless they tell you otherwise, stay where you are.

If you’re planning on fighting your ticket, you shouldn’t directly admit any wrongdoing. Everything you say can be used in court, so

34 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

it’s best to keep all answers short and sweet. Typically, officers will ask an openended question like “Do you know how fast you were going,” or, “Do you know why I pulled you over?” A simple “No sir” is better than anything.

In some situations, apologize. If you don’t plan on fighting your ticket, an apology can go a long way. “I’m really sorry I was speeding, sir. My favorite song was on! I promise to be more careful next time.”

Don’t argue. The side of the road is not the place to argue your ticket. Save that for the courtroom.

Merge back into traffic carefully. After the officer leaves, you may feel upset and ready to breakdown. If this is the case, don’t drive. Wait until the wave of emotion passes before returning to the road. When you’re ready to drive, use your turn signal and merge carefully!

I have often regretted my speech, never my silence. Xenocrates


o r twwines. o f h ont crafted m r e 6 p g, hand 2 $ Just winnin rdawa

For 23 years, club owners Br uce and Pam Boring have explored less-traveled roads seeking the hidden gems of the California wine countr y to introduce you to the vintners, the fine wines they craft and the rich histories that only fe w ever know. Be among the privileged and experience the flavor, the stor y and the people behind fine ar tisan wines. Receive Br uce and Pam’s personally selected wines along with a members-only publication delivered to your doorstep.

1-800-769-1074

Call Us Monday through Friday 8am to 5pm PST. Also Makes a Fun & Unique Gift


Events March What’s Happening:

March 4 UF Men’s Golf @ USF Invitational 1pm UF Lacrosse @ Loyola 6pm UF Softball Boston College 7pm UF Men’s Basketball @ South Carolina 7:30pm UF Baseball @ Southern Miss

March 7 Uptown Art Hop @ Thornebrook Village 6pm First Friday Gainesville @ Bo Diddley Community Plaza 6pm UF Softball Ole Miss 7pm UF Baseball Connecticut 7pm UF Gymnastics West Virginia

March 8 9:30am Downtown Street Clean up @ Pledge 5 Foundation 12pm UF Men’s Basketball Kentucky 1pm UF Women’s Tennis @ South Carolina 1pm UF Lacrosse Michigan 2pm UF Softball Ole Miss 4pm UF Baseball Connecticut 6pm Summer Activities Fair @ Westwood Middle School

March 9 1pm UF Men’s Tennis South Carolina 1pm UF Softball Ole Miss 1pm UF Baseball Connecticut

March 10 UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Diving Zone Championships UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Diving Zone Championships

March 10 UF Women’s Golf @ Northrop Grumman Regional Challenge

March 11 UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Diving Zone Championships UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Diving Zone Championships

March 12 UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Diving Zone Championships UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Diving Zone Championships 4pm UF Softball Mercer 44 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

6:30pm UF Softball Mercer 6:30pm UF Lacrosse Winthrop 7pm UF Baseball Illinois State

March 14 UF Track & Field @ NCAA Indoor Championships UF Women’s Golf SunTrust Gator Women’s Golf Invitational UF Men’s Golf @ Chris Schenkel Invitational 4pm UF Women’s Tennis @ Tennessee 5pmUF Men’s Tennis Tennessee 7pm UF Baseball Arkansas 7pm UF Softball@ LSU 7:30pm UF Gymnastics @ Missouri

March 15 UF Women’s Golf SunTrust Gator Women’s Golf Invitational UF Men’s Golf @ Chris Schenkel Invitational Track & Field @ NCAA Indoor Championships 7am The Continuum 5K-9 @ The Continuum 7am Clint Lacinak St Patrick’s Shamrock 5K @ St. Patrick Interparish School 9am NHRA Gatornationals Saturday @ Gainesville Raceway 9am 2014 Spring Plant Sale @ EHGSA 12pm UF Lacrosse @ Syracuse 7pm Puttin’ on the Ritz 2014 @ Fine Arts Hall at Sante Fe College 7pm UF Softball @ LSU 7pm UF Baseball Arkansas 7:30pm Dance Alive National Ballet: Bolero @ Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing ArtsMar

March 16 UF Women’s Golf SunTrust Gator Women’s Golf Invitational UF Men’s Golf @ Chris Schenkel Invitational 9am NHRA Gatornationals Saturday @ Gainesville Raceway 1pm UF Men’s Tennis Georgia 1pm UF Women’s Tennis @ Georgia 1pm UF Baseball Arkansas 2pm UF Softball @ LSU

March 18 6pm UF Softball Central Connecticut State 6:30pm UF Lacrosse Dartmouth 7pm UF Baseball Florida State

March 20 UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Championships

March 21 UF Track & Field @ FSU Relays UF Track & Field @ UCF Invitational UF Women’s Tennis @ Auburn UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Championships 5pmUF UF Men’s Tennis Auburn 6pm UF Softball Alabama 7:35pm UF Baseball @ Texas A&M

March 22 UF Women’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Championships UF Track & Field @ FSU Relays UF Track & Field @ UCF Invitational 10am Spring Garden Festival @ Kanapaha Botanical Gardens 1pm UF Softball Alabama 1pm UF Lacrosse @ Ohio State 3pm UF Gymnastics @ Southeastern Conference Championships - Session I 3:05pm UF Baseball @ Texas A&M 6pm Spirit Of Charity Gala @ Stephen C. O’Connell Center 7pm UF Gymnastics @ Southeastern Conference Championships - Session II 7:30pm Johnny Clegg @ University of Florida Auditorium

March 23 1pm UF Men’s Tennis Alabama 1pm UF Softball Alabama 2pm UF Women’s Tennis @ Alabama 2:05pm UF Baseball @ Texas A&M

March 24 UF Men’s Golf @ The Floridian

March 25 UF Men’s Golf @ The Floridian Invitational 6pm International Women’s Day Event: Coco Chanel @ Alachua County Headquarters LibraryDowntown 6pm UF Baseball @ vs. Florida State 7:30pm Streb @ Curtis M. Phillips Center for the Performing Arts , Gainesville FL

March 26 UF Track & Field @ Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays 7pm UF Lacrosse @ Stetson

March 27 UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Championships UF Track & Field @ Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays

March 28 UF Track & Field @ Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays UF Women’s Golf @ Bryan National Collegiate UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Championships UF Track & Field @ Raleigh Relays UF Track & Field @ UNF Invite 4pm UF Men’s Tennis @ Arkansas 5pm UF Women’s Tennis Arkansas 6pm UF Softball @ Tennessee 7:30pm UF Baseball LSU

March 29 UF Track & Field @ UNF Invite UF Men’s Swimming & Diving @ NCAA Championships UF Track & Field @ Clyde Littlefield Texas Relays UF Track & Field @ Raleigh Relays UF Women’s Golf @ Bryan National Collegiate 1pm UF Baseball LSU 1pm UF Softball @ Tennessee

March 30 UF Women’s Golf @ Bryan National Collegiate 12pm UF Lacrosse Penn State 1pm UF Women’s Tennis LSU 1pm UF Softball @ Tennessee 1pm UF Baseball LSU 2pm UF Men’s Tennis @ LSU

Invitational Education is a progressive discovery of our own ignorance. Will Durant



Recipe courtesy of Yummly.com How to make it:

Irish Soda Bread This classic Irish quick bread is similar to a large scone or biscuit. While it’s popular fare for St. Patrick’s Day, it also makes a delicious brunch side or afternoon snack. Click to the following slides for step-by-step instructions on making traditional Irish Soda Bread.

Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day with this classic Irish favorite. This bread is similar to a large scone or biscuit and makes a great appetizer or afternoon snack. You’ll Need: 2 cups all-purpose flour 1–2 tablespoons sugar 1 teaspoon baking powder 1/2 teaspoon baking soda 1/2 teaspoon salt 1 tablespoon finely shredded orange peel 3 tablespoons butter 1/3 cup currants 1 egg, lightly beaten 3/4 cup buttermilk

Preheat oven to 375 degrees F. In a large mixing bowl stir together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt and orange peel. Cut in butter until mixture resembles coarse crumbs. Stir in currants. Make a well in the center of the mixture. In a small mixing bowl combine egg and buttermilk. Add all at once to flour mixture. Stir just until moistened. On a lightly floured surface gently knead dough. Shape into a 7-inch round loaf. Transfer dough to a prepared baking sheet. With a sharp knife, make 2 slashes across the top of the loaf to form an X, cutting all the way to the edge. Bake 30 to 35 minutes or until golden. Serve warm.

L O O H C S AFTER

COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE FRE COURTESY FINTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL RE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE E PERSEVERANCE PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL TRA EU NI N NO SELF-CONTROL SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SPOPERSEVERANCE FO COURTESY INTEGRITY R RM C T O DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE COURTESY ATI PERSEVERANCE ! NTSELF-CONTROL O R N INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE PERSEVERANCE ACTSELF-CONTROL ! COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITYS!DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE

! K C I K

A H T WI

COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE

SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY Imagine picking up your little one INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE afterSELF-CONTROL work, asking if their homework is COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL doneDISCIPLINE and they answer “Yes sir!” COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELFPERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE At OkitoINTEGRITY Americaʼs After-School Program, we treatCOURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY your son or daughter like family while instilling life INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE skills that build confidence, self-control, integrity, discipline, COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL perseverance, coordination AND character. our trained PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESYPlus, INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELFstaff helps withDISCIPLINE homework! INTEGRITY SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY

DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE Get the quality care your sonCOURTESY or daughter deserves at anSELF-CONTROL

PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELFaffordable price ($75 a week!) in a safe, fun and friendly CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE environment. SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY " /" , ° " ÊUÊÈ ääÊ-7Ê , ,Ê," ÊUÊÎxÓ°ÎÎn°ÇÓÈÓ GAINESVILLEʼS FASTEST GROWING AFTER-SCHOOL PROGRAM! INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE COURTESY INTEGRITY DISCIPLINE SELF-CONTROL PERSEVERANCE

42 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

The nice thing about being a celebrity is that if you bore people they think it’s their fault. Henry Kissinger


The Secret To

by Kelly Herman

Loving

Yourself Each day, we greet everyone with smiles and hugs, and give out love like little parcels. The person we often forget to give love to, however, is ourselves. We are our own worst critics, and it’s time to start being the first person we love when we wake up in the morning. This is no easy task, because we see every flaw we have ever had when we look in the mirror. There is an easy way to take a step towards accepting yourself. When you look in the mirror each morning, instead of nitpicking, tell yourself, “I love me … today.” By adding “today” to that mantra, you are already forgiving yourself for yesterday and removing the anxiety about tomorrow. A little self-acceptance can change your whole outlook on life and that is something worth investing in.

Sleep is an excellent way of listening to an opera. James Stephens

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 43


Marital Love It seems as though spouses who love each other tend to touch more, right? Well, it turns out that the opposite is also true. According to a study in Communication Reports, the amount of physical affection between husbands and wives is correlated to how much they say they love each other. Take advantage of this unique predictor by first pushing away any feelings of doubt; the more physical affection you show, the more naturally it will come and the more love you will feel.

Feelin’ Good

Take advantage of

Affection By Sarah G. Mason

Are you a warm fuzzy or a cold prickly? Regardless of your preferred proximity to others, research shows it pays to be more physically affectionate in your close relationships. Here are a few ways to make the most of these feel-good reactions:

Hugging, holding hands and touching releases feel-good hormones and reduces stress, says one study published in Psychosomatic Medicine. These behaviors increase our level of oxytocin, a hormone that decreases pain and creates a calming sensation within us. Take advantage of these reactions by starting small; make it a habit to hug your spouse when you first see each other after a long day at work, hold his hand as you head out for a dinner date, or sit close enough to touch as you unwind on the couch.

Trustworthy Touching Do you consider yourself trustworthy? According to a study published in The Journal of Nonverbal Behavior, physical affection can make you appear more trustworthy to others and can improve others’ opinions of you. Take advantage of this psychological phenomenon by engaging in light, friendly physical contact when conversing with your spouse, friends or family. Gently touch a relative on the arm as you talk and give friends a hug hello.

Stress Be-Gone Do you feel too stressed to worry about your intimate physical relationships? You might be taking the wrong approach. Psychosomatic Medicine published a study showing how increased physical affection between romantic partners lowers daily levels of the stress hormone cortisol. Take advantage of this stress-zapper by taking a breather anytime you’re feeling overwhelmed; seek out your partner and ask for a hug until you feel ready to tackle the world again.

It’s time to Take Advantage

of affection. With loved ones, an increase in physical affection can heighten physical health, relationship quality and mental well-being. 40 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

A witty saying proves nothing. Voltaire


Mini

Quiches On-the-Go

As you’re hurrying out the door in the morning, you want a breakfast that’s filling and delicious, but you need something you can grab on the go. This broccoli-cheddar quiche is the perfect solution. It’s warm, nutritious and satisfying. Best of all, it can be made ahead and saved for a quick, out-the-door meal. What You’ll Need: • 2 cups broccoli florets • 1 cup milk • 1 cup heavy cream • 2 eggs plus 2 egg yolks

• 1 cup cheddar (grated) • ½ tsp salt • ½ tsp pepper • ¼ tsp ground nutmeg

1) Preheat oven to 350° F, and grease a 12-cup muffin tin 2) Steam the broccoli until just tender, about 5-6 minutes 3) In a medium bowl, whisk together milk, cream, eggs and egg yolks 4) Stir in cheese, broccoli, salt, pepper and nutmeg 5) Ladle egg mixture into prepared muffin cups and bake until browned, about 25 minutes 6) Enjoy now, or refrigerate for later use! Argue for your limitations, and sure enough they’re yours. Richard Bach

Bonnie Valenzuela p h o t o g r a p h y

"

for photography that speaks volumes

6

< 1 * " / " , * 9° " Ê U Ê Î x Ó Ó n { È Ó { Ó Flourish Magazine | March/2014 41


Raising the bar

Sweet Potato Bisque By Sarah G. Mason

When the weather gets chilly, there’s nothing more comforting than an oversized jacket, wool socks and a warm bowl of soup – bisque, to be exact. This winter, I’ve gone crazy over comfort food: piping hot cups of cocoa, bread fresh out of the oven and this. Sweet potato bisque with buttery cinnamon sugar croutons. The name alone gets my mouth watering. This soup is winter comfort in a bowl. It’s rich, hearty and full of flavor. Best of all? It’s easy to make! Just throw the ingredients in a pot, simmer for 30 minutes, blend them up and you’ve got a restaurantworthy, melt-in-your-mouth meal. What You’ll Need:

“Wine gets a lot of the credit for enhancing dinner dishes and desserts, but bourbon's a chef’s favorite, too.”

• 2 tablespoons olive oil • 2 tablespoons unsalted butter • 1 sweet onion, diced • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 pinch of red pepper flakes • 3 tablespoons bourbon (optional, but it adds amazing flavor) • 2 medium sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed (mine came to about 1.25 pounds, peeled and cubed)

Directions: 1) Preheat oven to 425 degrees F. 2) Heat a large pot over medium heat and add olive oil and butter. Add onions with pepper flakes and a pinch of salt and stir to coat, then cook until softened, about 5 minutes. Add in garlic, increase heat slightly and add bourbon, stirring well. Let cook for 2–3 minutes.

Recipe courtesy of Yummly.com and HowSweetEats.com 38 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

• 2 cups low-sodium vegetable stock • 2 cups water • 1/2 cup half and half • 1/4 teaspoon salt • 1/8 teaspoon pepper • 4 slices whole grain bread, cut into cubes • 2 tablespoons butter, melted • 1/2 tablespoon granulated sugar • 1/4 teaspoon cinnamon

3) Add sweet potatoes, stock and water to the pot. Cover and let simmer for 25 minutes, until sweet potatoes are soft. 4) While sweet potatoes are boiling, add bread cubes to a baking sheet. Toss with cinnamon and sugar, then brown butter, and bake for 8-10 minutes until golden. Remove and set aside until soup is finished. 5) After sweet potatoes are soft, carefully pour the entire mixture into a high-powdered blender and pureed until smooth and creamy. Transfer creamy soup back into the pot over low heat. Stir in half and half, salt and pepper, then taste and season additionally if needed. Serve with croutons on top! A clever man commits no minor blunders. Goethe


Recipe

Low Carb

Caramelized

Onion Dip

With March Madness upon us, cookouts are sure to happen. Wow your friends with this delicious onion dip, great for your favorite chips and veggies. Best of all, it’s low in carbs, so you can enjoy it guilt free! What you will need: 2 tablespoons extra virgin olive oil 2 large yellow onions (finely chopped) ¾ cup sour cream 1) Sauté onions over medium heat in olive oil with a pinch of salt 2) Stir occasionally until onions are a deep golden brown and caramelized (roughly 45 minutes)

Knowledge speaks, but wisdom listens. Jimi Hendrix

¾ cup Greek yogurt 3 teaspoons onion powder Salt to taste 3) Whisk together sour cream, yogurt, onion powder and salt. 4) When onions have cooled, stir into mixture 5) Enjoy!

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 39


All natural

Spring

Cleaning

As spring draws closer, many of us begin to feel it – the overwhelming need to clean our homes from top to bottom. Maybe it’s the anticipation of summer’s carefree days on the horizon. Maybe it’s a buildup of the months we’ve spent looking at the same old stuff inside our homes. No matter what the reason, at this time of year, people can often be found cleaning up and clearing out. Of course, cleaning up isn’t cheap. After buying special cleaners for floors, upholstery, bathrooms, tile, grout, kitchens and laundry, you may be wondering if a squeaky clean house is really worth it. Instead of shelling out all your spring break money on expensive (and potentially hazardous) cleaning agents, try these natural alternatives.

By Ginger Henderson

Make your own all-purpose cleaner. Try making this inexpensive, non-toxic, cleaner to use anywhere in your home. Ingredients: • 2 cups water • 1 cup Hydrogen Peroxide • ¼ cup lemon juice Directions: Combine all ingredients in a spray bottle. How does it work? The secret to the power of this all-purpose cleaner lies in the Hydrogen Peroxide. Long used to disinfect wounds, it’s non-toxic to children and animals. Paired with the acidic lemon juice to help loosen grime and diluted in water, this is one cleaner that’s tough and gentle at the same time.

36 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

In the Kitchen All Natural Powerhouses: Lemon, Vinegar, Baking Soda

+ + Lemons, a natural disinfectant, can be used to clean and sanitize both laminate countertops and wooden cutting boards. Simply cut the lemon in half, squeeze the juice onto the surface and use the fruit as a scrubber to power through stains. Leave the juice until the stains disappear, then simply rinse with water and dry. When you’re finished, toss what’s left of the lemon into the garbage disposal and grind to clean and freshen. Use a mix of vinegar and baking soda to remove stubborn grease from kitchen surfaces. Fill a

spray bottle with undiluted vinegar. Sprinkle baking soda onto the surface and spray with the vinegar. Allow the baking soda to work for a few minutes before gently rubbing the surface with a damp sponge. Once the grease is removed, simply wipe clean with a damp cloth. Don’t worry about the odor, the natural scent of the vinegar will dissipate within minutes. Once you’re finished, fill a dishwasher safe bowl with 2 cups of vinegar and set it on the top rack of the dishwasher. Run a full cycle to leave your dishwasher sparkling.

In the Bathroom All Natural Powerhouses: Grapefruit, Baking Soda, Salt

+ Remove stubborn soap scum with a homemade scouring powder. Combine 2 parts baking soda with 1 part salt and 1 part borax. Use a sponge or rag to apply the mixture and cut through the scum with ease. Make your own mirror and glass cleaner by filling a jar with citrus peels and covering them with undiluted white vinegar. Let the jar sit for a few days before straining the citrus-infused vinegar into a spray bottle and diluting with water. This mixture can also be used undiluted for

+ mopping floors or disinfecting bathroom surfaces such as sinks and countertops. Clean your sinks and bathtub with grapefruit and kosher salt. Slice a grapefruit in half and sprinkle the insides liberally with kosher salt. Begin by wetting the surface, then clean by using the grapefruit as the scrubber. Juice the grapefruit as you pass over fixtures to give them a shine. When you’re done, rinse the left-behind pulp and salt away. This method also works well for cleaning tile floors and toilets.

Once is happenstance. Twice is coincidence. Three times is enemy action. Auric Goldfinger, in “Goldfinger”


Green Coffee Beans Do

By Truman Carter

Perhaps it’s because he has his own TV show. Whatever the reason, when Dr. Mehmet Oz talks, people listen.

Really Work?

Dr. Oz spoke out a few months ago about the weight-loss affects of green coffee bean extract. In an age where weight-loss is a multi-billion dollar industry in the United States alone, it’s difficult to wade through all the pills, powders and herbs to find something that actually works. To find one that an “expert” like Dr. Oz endorses, despite not being paid to do so, is rare. A research study presented at the American Chemical Society in San Diego showed that green coffee beans resulted in an average of weight loss of 17 pounds by participants over a 22-week period. Participants were overweight or obese and were 22–26 years old. Because that study was funded by Applied Food Sciences, which produces a green coffee supplement, Dr. Oz decided to conduct his own research and even put it on The Dr. Oz Show. He discovered dieting participants lost an average of two pounds per week, which means green tea beans may actually be worth a try for others seeking to lose weight. He mentions that it’s important for consumers to look for green coffee bean extracts with at least 45 percent of what’s called “chlorogenic acid.” Chlorogenic acid comes in regular coffee beans before they are roasted. When roasted, the plant compound is broken down. Researchers believe chlorogenic acid helps reduce glucose absorption, resulting in weight loss. He also notes that green tea extract should not be taken by those under the age of 18 or who are pregnant or breast feeding. A quick online search shows a 30-count bottle of green coffee bean extract can range from $6–60, but there are some fakes out there. Be sure to only choose supplements made in the USA or Europe, avoid products containing ephedrine and be sure the product reads “verified green coffee beans.” With that said, be most weary of the cheaper versions because the highest quality green coffee beans are not cheap. To love oneself is the beginning of a lifelong romance. Oscar Wilde

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 37


Get special financing for all your needs

As winter comes to an end, you’re looking forward to gathering the family, lighting up the barbecue and spending some time soaking up the backyard sun. To make the summer extra special, why not give the kids their very own playground? The Home Depot has everything you need to jumpstart a DIY project that’s sure to make the summer memorable.

lofty clubhouse, this playground offers your children hours of imaginative fun. Plus, you can rest at ease knowing that all Lifetime Playgrounds meet and often exceed playground performance safety standards. From rubber swing set chain grips to splinterless polyethylene to rounded wall edges, your children will enjoy their time outdoors ouch-free!

Hideaways for elves, tall towers for princesses and swings for soaring dragons – our Lifetime Adventure Playset has this and more! From the three-station swing bar to the

To complete the look, the Home Depot offers mulch and white playground sand to add underfoot, as well as an array of landscaping boarders to tie the scene together.

T he H om e Dep o t C o n s um yo u c o n er Credit venient buying p Card giv m a n ag e o we r a n es ment in d ea sy a stores a c c oun t nd onlin e. Apply Today !

Check out our Multy Home Rubber Flexi Curve Terra Cotta Garden Edging – it’s just the decorative touch Mom was hoping for! This boarder looks like etched stone, though it’s made of flexible, environmentally friendly rubber. Available in 4-foot segments, Flexi-Curve Garden Boarders easily conform to curves, allowing you to create a beautiful outline around your kids’ new favorite spot. No matter where this summer takes you, the Home Depot has everything you need to make your projects a breeze.

homedepot.com • 352.332.7440 • 7107 Northwest 4 th Boulevard, Gainesville FL 32607


join the garden club now for

great savings

The Home Depot Wants to Sponsor Your Lawn! Let us transform 1 Winners yard into the envy of the neighborhood!! Please submit a picture of your yard with a 250 words or less description of why the Home Depot should sponsor your lawn. Send all entries to: dante_a_glasso@homedepot.com


Budget Backyard

Makeover By Kat Freestone

The weather is warming up and the great outdoors are calling your name. Though you’d love to spend a little one on one time with the sun, your patio looks less than inviting. Luckily, there are several quick, affordable ways to spruce up your outdoor space – just in time for spring! Bring in Color When decorating your back porch, stay away from neutral greens and greys; they’ll blend in with the surrounding shrubbery. Instead, include bold statement pieces like a bright red flower pot or a colorful hanging lantern. For an extra-affordable color makeover, hit the spray paint aisle. All it takes is a fresh coat to make old metal chairs and dingy mirror frames look bold and beautiful.

Add a Fire Source No matter the season, fire is a comforting element that draws people in. Fire pits are affordable, flexible and come in a wide range of styles and sizes to fit your space. For an even lower-cost alternative, bring a few candles or torches into the space to set a warm tone.

Mix Up the Seating Chairs are flexible, benches are intimate and stools are great for perching – ideally, you should include some of each. For budget-friendly seating, look for items like overturned barrels, hay stacks, large rocks or stumps that will add a fun flare to your arrangement.

Don’t Forget Décor Your living room isn’t the only space that needs eye-appealing artwork. Small accents like sculptures or water features can make outdoor living spaces feel dynamic and interesting. Scour garage sales and flea markets for inexpensive artwork, or create your own!

Add Flair to the Floor

Tabletop Texture

If dirt and gravel are all that’s underfoot, it’s time to give your floor a facelift. Check out your local thrift store for unique stepping stones, and don’t be afraid to think outside the box. Salvaged slate tile, pea gravel and round iron weights are a few non-traditional items that make perfect walkways.

Add artful accents to outdoor living spacing by incorporating clusters of vases filled with interesting plants. To save money, take a trip through your backyard to see what unique foliage you can dig up. Four leaf clovers, for example, are bountiful and have short roots that make repotting a breeze.

32 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

If you want to make an apple pie from scratch, you must first create the universe. Carl Sagan


Easy Ways to

Stay Creative They may seem simple, but take a moment and give them a try. You’d be surprised how easy it is to expand your creativity.

It is much more comfortable to be mad and know it, than to be sane and have one’s doubts. G. B. Burgin

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 33


Of course, every relationship is different. It’s important to play by the rules and follow the company’s policies depending on your work environment. If you do decide to embark on a new relationship with a co-worker, my best advice is to approach it without any big expectations. In short, keep it casual.

It’s no secret; office relationships happen. You’re sitting in the office on what seems like a normal day, when suddenly an attractive co-worker walks by. You try not to catch their eye (per professional workplace decorum), but sometimes you just can’t help yourself.

Dating Tips for tactfully

a Co-Worker A few months ago, I experienced this potentially-awkward scenario for myself. I was working on some issues with our copywriting department, but one of the normal staff members was busy with a meeting so he sent a replacement. Little did I know how that one schedule conflict would lead to amazing things for me. It’s a good thing my workplace doesn’t frown on employee relationships, because I was hooked from Day 1. Over the next few weeks, we kept in contact to attempt to resolve my department’s issues, but slowly our conversations became non-work-related. I realized I was interested and decided to add a new friend on Facebook. If you’re interested in a co-worker, this is one way to show it that doesn’t involve asking for a number or making plans to hang out. After many Facebook chat sessions, and finally a phone number exchange, it was time to make a real move. At every point in a co-worker relationship, one of the involved

30 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

By Katie Moss

parties has to take the big step. Whether it’s inviting them out for happy hour, or simply urging them to try your favorite restaurant (with you, of course!), it has to happen. Ideally, you’ll want to approach this as a friendly outing. Then, if things don’t work out, the situation at work won’t be awkward. Think of it as a learning experience. My boyfriend was convinced that our first “date” was more of a “non-date” because he wasn’t sure if it was meant to be romantic. I, for one, am happy about that. I wasn’t sure we would have a real connection in person, and this way there was no pressure. Of course, we did hit it off. The next day, I had some friends cancel on me for a sledding outing, and I invited him. We rode down the hill together (my first time!), so it gave us the opportunity to get closer. I knew we had an amazing connection, and I was thrilled when he asked me to go on our first “real” date, which ended up involving sushi, drinks and a private ice-skating session.

Perhaps you’re rolling your eyes at my nearly perfect situation and wonder how I would deal with less-than-stellar dating experience in a work environment. Unfortunately, I’ve been there, too, but I managed to keep things professional. I did this by remembering our primary interaction was for work purposes, and that removing any post-relationship awkwardness is essential for getting projects accomplished. If there’s one thing to keep in mind while pursuing a relationship with a co-worker, it’s that, above all, you’re going to be confined to the same space for several hours a day. Keep it civil, no matter what. Enough negative associations. You’ve probably heard most of the warnings about dating a co-worker before, but what are some of the perks? • Your lunch break can become a great time to catch up with your significant other. • Your co-worker has already been “interviewed.” They’re qualified to hold a job, and they’ve already made the cut with HR, so there are obviously some quality attributes involved. • You’ll probably have better luck than at the local bar. Browsing singles boozing at the local hotspot is good for those looking for flings, but many bar patrons aren’t looking for long-term relationships. At work, you’ll have the time you need to really get to know a person, instead of just spending a few minutes of time sizing them up while sipping a martini. • You can truly understand each other’s passions. You probably have similar approaches to your career and life, and your significant other will be more likely to actually listen and sympathize when you have issues at work. You’ll also have a good idea about how they deal with successes and failures through your interactions at work, which is very important in long-term relationships. In conclusion, you’ll have to figure out if a workplace relationship can work for you, but if your company approves, why not give it a try?

Life is pleasant. Death is peaceful. It’s the transition that’s troublesome. Isaac Asimov


Don’t be a By Leil Lowndes

Non-Responder You’ve just emailed someone who is a Very Important Person to you. They don’t respond immediately? “No big deal,� you say to yourself. 2nd day: No response. “Hmm,� you surmise, “maybe he’s out of town and just not checking his messages.� 3rd day: To boost your faltering ego, you speculate. “His spam catcher must have caught it by mistake.� 4th day: Insecurity sets in. “Well, I guess I’m pretty low priority to him.� 5th day: Paranoia engulfs you, and you feel miserable. But, as usual when our self-esteem is attacked, it turns to resentment against the perpetrator of misery. “How do you like that? The rat is ignoring me!� Don’t be one of those thoughtless non-responders. Remember, YOU are a VIP to certain people, and your E-mail is important to them.

Never let the sun set and rise twice before acknowledging someone’s message – even if it’s just a few words. You ask, “But what if I don’t have the time to deal with it just now?� “Won’t I somehow lose ‘prestige’ if I answer immediately?� Answer: Definitely not if you shoot back just half a sentence, “Hi Linda, received your msg. and will respond shortly. Thanks.� How long does that take? Use your own words, of course, but you get the idea. They will greatly appreciate it – and respect you for your thoughtfulness. (Then, if you take the 5 days to give the more lengthy response, they’ll know it’s because you’re busy. Your half sentence shows them respect.) If you’re REALLY busy and don’t have time for even a one liner, make a “stationary� response you can click on. How about, “Hi, I received your message and look forward to responding in a few days. I’m a bit under the gun right now� – or something like that in your own words or degree of formality.

F acaeinting P

S anrdt A

B allowonisting T

y T emlittpoerrar G attoos T LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

'BCVMPVT'BDFT&OUFSUBJONFOU $PN r

There is more stupidity than hydrogen in the universe, and it has a longer shelf life. Frank Zappa

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 31


Job

Get the Interview by Lauren Douglass

To find a job, you submit your resume through online job sites and wait to hear back, right? Wrong. Tony Beshara, Ph.D., creator of The Job Search Solution is here to tell us how old job-hunting techniques have set you up for failure – and what you can do to change it. Tell me a little about The Job Search Solution. It is, to my knowledge, America’s only 45-hour online job search tool about how to find a job. What makes it unique is that it’s actually written by somebody who’s been finding people jobs since 1973. I’ve been making between 150 and 200 calls a day, talking to candidates and employers, so I know exactly what goes on out there and I teach people how to manage the jobfinding process.

What are some job market trends you’re seeing now? Actually, the market is better than it’s been in the past few years. The job market is going to grow very slowly, but employers are more interested in hiring than they have been before. The problem is that they can’t find qualified candidates, and it’s because candidates are not finding them. Candidates are sitting at their desk hitting that send button, thinking that’s how you find a job. Your chances of even getting an interview by sending your resume to a website are 1 in 300, and that’s just to get the interview. That’s not the way you find a job.

The way to find a job is to pick up the phone and find an employer who needs to hire somebody. Talk them into interviewing you, then go in and sell yourself.

So the key to finding a job is to be aggressive? Exactly! Look, there are 7.5 million business establishments in the United States, and the average size of a company is 16 people. These companies aren’t taking the time to sit and read all the resumes they get from online job sites. They’re busy running their business. Your job as a candidate is to get in front of those employers and say you can make them money and you can save them money. If you can give them enough reasons why they ought to hire you, they will.

During an interview, what’s the best way to stand out? Remember that you’re selling yourself. You’re giving a company reasons why they ought to hire you. Let them know what you can do for them that the 45 other people they’re going to interview can’t. You’ve got to come up with examples in your background that show you’re a really hard worker. You can tell them, “I’ve been successful since I was fourteen years old, and here’s where I can document my success. I’ve been successful before and I’m going to be successful for you. I’ll show up early, I’ll stay late and I’ll work harder than anybody in your company.”

For more advice from Beshara, visit TheJobSearchSolution.com

How can you prepare It’s because companies receive approximately yourself to go 118 resumes for every job they post, and into an interview job postings are nefarious to begin with. and sell yourself? Why are the odds of finding a job online so bad?

Twenty-five percent of the time a company posts a job, they never hire anybody; the job goes away. Another twenty-five percent of the time they already know who they’re going to hire, but they just throw a job listing out there so they can say to their higher-ups, “Well, we looked outside of the company, but we’re going to hire Leroy’s cousin.” 28 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Do your research. Every business has an online presence, so get online and find out what the company does. Then give them something you can do for them; everybody needs a salesperson, everybody needs an accountant or an engineer. Some people need folks that can sweep up the floors [laughs], you know?

It is far better to grasp the Universe as it really is than to persist in delusion, however satisfying and reassuring. Carl Sagan


Yes We Can By Tracey Hickey

If you’re a working woman in Florida, there’s good news and bad news for you. The good news is that Florida ranks ninth in the nation for pay equality, with women here making 83 percent of what their male counterparts do on average – six percent higher than the 77 percent national average. The bad news is that we received a D grade for family-friendly workplace laws. That means workplaces in Florida are less likely to offer paid maternity leave, flexible sick days and time off for parenting responsibilities. Luckily, today more than ever women are stepping up to close this gap.

The Problem: Pay When we think of women’s equality in the workplace, pay is the first issue that comes to mind. Women make 76 cents for every dollar that men make.

What We Can Do: Start early and be firm. Upon hiring, women often shy away from bold salary negotiations. Furthermore, as our careers progress, we may not feel comfortable asking for a raise, even if we deserve one. When it comes to money, just remember that no harm can come from asking. If the salary you make doesn’t mirror the one you’ve earned, speak up!

The Problem: Health Care Women are less likely to have employerprovided health insurance than male workers, and their average earning from pensions is about 50 percent lower.

What We Can Do: Ask about non-monetary benefits, including sick leave, health insurance and pensions, before you take the job. Ensure that you understand what the company offers and their long-term benefits. Most importantly, remember that benefits, just like money, are negotiable.

The Problem: Support for Working Mothers

Have Mom pick up the kids from aftercare a few times a week, and alternate sick days with your hubby.

The Problem: Flexibility This points to something just as troubling, but rarely as discussed as much as the pay gap between men and women: a flexibility gap. Among full-time workers, women are less likely than men to report flexibility in their schedules at work – this despite the fact that 70 percent of women say the responsibility for taking time off from work to attend to children’s needs falls on them, as opposed to only 30 percent of men.

What We Can Do:

What We Can Do:

Speak up! There’s no reason to hold these concerns inside. Come up with a plan that accommodates both your needs and your responsibilities, and ask for feedback from your boss. Make it clear that you won’t be skimping on work and that a little flexibility would greatly reduce your stress and increase your performance.

Ask for help. If your boss isn’t too keen about you missing work to care for the kids, ask your husband, family or friends for support.

For all working moms, let’s speak up and stand together until there is equality for all!

We really lag behind in support for working mothers. Fifty-three percent of working mothers say they are unable to take time off when necessary to care for their children, and 49 percent cannot alter their hours at work to accommodate their children’s needs.

Many a man’s reputation would not know his character if they met on the street. Elbert Hubbard

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 29


Rich By Mr. Money Mustache

Get

with the “ChaCHING!” instinct

Ahh, delayed gratification. It’s one of the defining advantages of humanity itself: The ability to put off immediate pleasure for the purpose of getting even better results in the future.

Compared to lower animals or insects, we’ve got this ability locked down. Leave a dog in a room with a piece of tasty meat and a chart explaining that that dog will earn a 20,000 percent annual return for any meat left uneaten, the dog will still choose not to invest. But while most of us can out-strategize our pets, we humans still vary widely in our ability to set aside resources for the future. This difference in ability starts to show itself very early in life. My favorite example of this is a famous old psychological study that looked at young children, offering them one cookie now or several cookies in a few minutes. When left unsupervised, some kids immediately grabbed and ate the initial bait, while others exercised their willpower and emerged from the trial with a bigger bounty in exchange for waiting. The results were noted, but the researchers then kept in touch with these children, following through on their lives as young adults. As it turned out, the pleasure-delayers did better in school, graduated to get better jobs and ended up in higher-paying careers as adults, with fewer debt problems. What is it that separates the instant gratification crowd from people like me, who haven’t had less than $1,000 of “just-in-case” money sitting around since sometime before age 15? Are the spenders the only ones out there having fun, while I sulk at home, worrying about money? 26 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

A recent article in NBC news offered another peek into the psychological differences between the saver and the spender. In that story, a neurological researcher actually watched the brain activity of various types of people and noticed that those with a better ability to imagine the future in detail were also better at making wise financial decisions, like delaying purchases. That sounded just about right to me, because I am a compulsive future-imaginer. With all this background, we can finally understand the difference between savers and spenders right as they stand in front of the cash register, about to make a purchase. The compulsive spender thinks mostly about what is in his hand: “I want it! I want it and I’m about to HAVE it! Yeah!” The future-oriented saver thinks more about the eventual results: “This is something I have decided to buy. It will reduce my monetary wealth, but I estimate that the added life benefits over time will exceed the loss caused by the missing money.” More significant is the feeling each person gets when he does NOT make a purchase: Spender: “Hey! I wanted this thing and I don’t get to have it! Wahh!” Saver: “I just avoided a purchase, and I am richer because of it. Cha-CHING!!” This has great implications in an often challenging field of not spending all your money. The common wisdom is that you create a “budget” and allocate a certain amount of your money to savings and the

rest to “guilt-free spending.” During the initial period of spending, you get to say, “Yeah!” Then when you hit the ceiling in each category, you’re back to “Wahh!” Mr. Money Mustache has always suggested that budgets are only for beginners. They are built on the assumption that the “Yeah!” stage is desirable, and you will only stop when you reach the limit. Take as much instant gratification as you can each month, but cut yourself off before you do too much damage. Instead, what if you could make NOT spending just as rewarding as spending? You can, of course, and it’s very easy – it’s just a matter of cultivating your own little ChaCHING instinct. Every time you don’t spend unnecessary money, you have won a little game. It is a game of becoming stronger, wealthier, more focused on what really matters in life and more able to do the same thing next time. You have simultaneously both increased your means and decreased your needs. Your safety margin and independence in life just grew a little bit, and the entire rest of your life will now be better because of it, just from avoiding or delaying a single purchase. What a spectacular reward! ChaCHING! The older I get, the more I realize that the future really does arrive on a regular basis. Gifts set aside by the younger me arrive in my current life and are much appreciated. By imagining your own future more vibrantly, you too might see fit to give some gifts to your future self. You’ll be thanking yourself sooner than you expect.

Basically, I no longer work for anything but the sensation I have while working. Albert Giacometti


Q

! +* " Q

Q Q )

Q Q

Q

Q

('#&

:98976554 3210798 /4 .-9 2,06

'&%$# &""! $ $ & & % &"$ & % $" %


Healthy Habits for Kids All parents want their children to be healthy, but how do you decide when it’s okay to indulge and when to put your foot down? Teaching your kids healthy eating habits can be difficult, but it’s absolutely possible if you stick to your guns and try these 10 handy tricks. By Katie Moss Remember to Lead by Example. Children learn from what they see, and if they see you eating sweets or salty snacks all the time, they’re likely to want the same treats for themselves. Create a healthy diet for yourself, and your children will take notice. Provide Plenty of Variety. If you always serve the same three dishes to your children, they’re sure to get bored and may not find a dish that they like. Encourage them to try new veggies by making a fun game or rhyme. “We love veggies, yes we do! Can you eat the red ones, the green ones, the blue?” Get them laughing – blue veggies? No way! Emphasize That Treats are for Special Occasions. Everyone should be able to enjoy a piece of cake at a birthday party or a few pieces of candy on Halloween. Don’t go overboard, but let your children know that treats are appropriate for special events. Skip Restaurants, When Possible. Eating healthfully at restaurants can be very 24 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

difficult. Some of the healthiest choices, however, include restaurants with local cuisine, Thai food and anywhere with fresh meats and veggies. Provide Healthy Snacks. Snacking isn’t evil; you simply have to make sure that those snacks are healthy. Keep small, healthy snacks on hand to give kids fun choices. Some examples include nuts, fruit, cheese, fresh juice and veggies. Decide What’s on the Table. A sure way to provide your children with healthy food is to cook it yourself. Remember, though they can decide how much they will eat, you can decide what they eat by cooking healthy meals. Choose lean meats, fish and fresh produce. Start Early. Start your children on a healthy eating path by starting as early as possible. Whether this means eating healthfully when you’re pregnant, buying organic baby food or deliciously healthy after-school snacks,

the best time to start is today. Trust Your Children. Your children know when they are hungry and how much they should eat. As long as you’re sure they’re eating for the right reasons (i.e., not out of boredom), trust them to make the right choices. If you follow the steps above, they’ll learn what’s best for them by example. Stop Worrying So Much. If you’re feeling anxious about your kids’ eating habits, they may begin to fear mealtime. On a similar note, if you are too controlling, they might want to rebel by eating unhealthy foods in secret. Make sure that mealtime is a time your family enjoys. Good luck teaching your children healthy eating habits! And remember, your family’s healthy eating starts with your example.

The true measure of a man is how he treats someone who can do him absolutely no good. Samuel Johnson


When it comes to your child’s success in school, a progress report isn’t the only feedback you should count on. Midway through the school year is a good time to talk to your child’s teacher – by this time, they’ve had a few months to observe your child’s behavior and to see how well they’re absorbing subject matter. Besides the usual “They’re not causing any trouble, are they?” there are a few key questions to be sure to include.

TeacherTalks By: Kelly Herman

“After giving directions, does my child get straight to work?”

Not jumping into an assignment may mean a few things. Your child may have trouble processing information, focusing, or may even be defiant. If they tend to stall, ask the teacher if other kids have the same problem. It may just be that the teacher is not adept at managing their classroom, or other children could be the distraction. A good solution is to start making efforts to enforce a “job well done” on chores at home. You’ll get to see whether or not they begin their tasks right away, why they didn’t, and learn what motivated them to get the work done.

“Does my child take pride in the quality of their work?”

You may be getting the report card back and wondering how all that work you see at the “ Does my child have dining room table translates into trouble finding partners unsatisfactory grades. The answer may be for group projects?” that the child is not driven to do their best, This is a great question at all levels of but only to do the bare minimum. Ask if the schooling. As kids mature, they change their teacher reviews submitted assignments with attitude towards people. This could lead to the student, and request that they start if bullying, whether they are the victim or the they don’t already. By holding the child assailant, and it could show in how other accountable for good work, it may clarify kids treat them. If their teacher says they’re problem solving issues. not being included, ask what trait they think is causing it. They may just be shy, goofing off, bossy or stubborn. Both of you can then “Does my child like school?” “How would you describe my Part of the school experience is enjoying the work to correct those behaviors. learning process and being motivated. If a child’s personality?” A huge part of schooling is continuing child doesn’t seem to enjoy school, both Ideally, the teacher’s description will match instruction at home, subtly. If you ask the parent and teacher can move from there to your own, but that’s not always the case – right questions early on, then each year you figure out new techniques for igniting their children act differently in different situations, and your child’s teacher will be better equipped especially when they’re around their peers. By schooling spark. Implementing a learningto solve problems that arise. Together, you can as-a-game system from home can work discussing your child’s behavioral variations, encourage your child to develop strong wonders, but you wouldn’t know motivation you and your child’s teacher can better learning habits and stay focused on school. was an issue unless you asked. understand their performance in school. A people that values its privileges above its principles soon loses both. Dwight D. Eisenhower

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 25


Epidural vs Natural Childbirth Which One’s Right for You? By Sarah G. Mason

Your due date is looming closer and you can’t wait to hold your sweet little newborn in your arms. As you prepare for the big day, there are many questions still yet to answer. Who will be allowed in the birthing suite? Do you want to know the gender? And will you opt for a natural childbirth?

Ask the Pros

“With the availability and safety of modern medicine, there’s no reason to put yourself through the pain of childbirth,” says Morgan Miller, P.A., mother of four. “I think women look at natural childbirth as a badge of honor, and for some that may make it worth it. For me, the pain you feel isn’t something that can really be valued by others; there’s no shame in wanting to ease your suffering.” “With my now 3-year-old son, I did get the epidural and it felt awesome at the moment, but after that I had really bad back pain for a few years,” says Annie Romaro, mother of two. “With my now 1-year-old daughter, I did it naturally. It was really hard and I’ll never forget that pain, but I’m happy I tried it both ways. If I have another baby, I’d do it naturally again.”

22 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Pros

Cons

An epidural provides one significant pro: pain reduction. This means you can sleep, watch TV or chat with family during the often lengthy process of labor. Not to mention, no pain!

An epidural can slow down contractions, and you may need oxytocin to speed the labor process back up.

Natural childbirth means less drugs, which will help you feel exactly what’s going on and when to push.

Natural childbirth offers the satisfaction of getting the job done without chemical assistance. An epidural allows changes to be made throughout labor; if you’re feeling more than you’d like to, or not enough, you can say so. Natural childbirth reduces the likelihood that you’ll need oxytocin to facilitate labor. An epidural provides you with more strength when it’s time to push because you haven’t been dealing with painful contractions for hours.

Natural childbirth comes with one, big consequence: pain. And lots of it.

An epidural makes it difficult to know what’s going on down there or when to push. An epidural is a narcotic, which can cause nausea or itchiness. An epidural isn’t 100 percent effective. That’s right – sometimes they don’t work, meaning you could still feel pain.

Both natural childbirth and epidurals come with pros and cons to consider. When making this decision, consult your doctor to determine which path is right for you.

Natural childbirth allows many to eat, drink and walk around during labor. An epidural paves the way for a C-section, should it be necessary. You’ll already be anesthetized for the procedure, saving time and potentially decreasing complications.

Be nice to people on your way up because you meet them on your way down. Jimmy Durante


Worried About

Too Much TV?

By Kristy Watt

On average, American children watch between three and six hours of TV every day – that’s a whopping 20 percent increase since 2003, according to a Nielsen Company report. To give you an idea, the American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that children limit their television intake to just one or two hours a day – that’s a huge jump! If you, like most parents, are concerned about the amount of television your child watches each day, here are five ways to cut back on TV time.

can watch after dinner or before bed and set the timer accordingly. This way, you won’t be the villain, the timer will be!

Family First

Replace television with a more suitable activity, such as coloring, board games or outside playtime. It’s easy to turn your child’s attention away from TV when there are other exciting adventures awaiting them. This way, they won’t even miss it!

Make meals a no-TV affair. To start, let your child know that dinner is a time for family to come together, talk about your days and keep the television turned off. Not only will this reduce your child’s TV time, but it will bring the family closer together.

TV Timer

Distraction Days

Reading Rocks

Reading works wonders; it’s one of the most Buy a kitchen timer to set a TV time limit. Let important and essential activities any child can learn to love. Not only does reading your child know how much television they

teach children about new words, show them exciting worlds and help with communications skills, but it’s also one of the quickest and easiest TV time replacements.

With all the extra time your child will gain, the possibilities are endless!

Game Time

@Walmart

You can only find truth with logic if you have already found truth without it. Gilbert Keith Chesterton

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 23


Making Time for your

Marriage

By Jonathan Ohayon

Working on your marriage can be difficult, especially if you have young children at home. Life is filled with changing diapers, carpooling to school, running the household and juggling a career. While these responsibilities are important, the glue that holds the family together is the foundation of a sound marriage relationship. Working in the diamond business, I come across hundreds of couples who are embarking on a new life together. I’m often asked, “How do you keep a marriage flourishing?” Below are a handful of ways to make time for your marriage – and to have fun doing it!

Date your Mate

Intimacy Candle

As they say, having a baby changes everything. When a couple brings a child into the family, the focus often shifts away from them and towards their new addition. As kids grow older, family routines are often dictated by kids’ schedules, leaving little time for romance between Mom and Dad. As with most things in life, if it’s not planned, it won’t happen. Take time to schedule a Date your Mate night once or twice a month. Make this a time to reconnect and build romance into your relationship. Just like a flower needs water to grow, a relationship need nurturing with time spent together.

In the race of changing diapers and running errands, it can be tough for new parents to find quality time to spend together. Try using an Intimacy Candle to cue the desire for an intimate encounter. In the morning, one partner will light the candle to signal their interest in intimacy that evening. During the day, the partner who lit the candle is responsible for creating anticipation – perhaps by leaving a love note or sending a flirty text message. Being creative and focusing on closeness in marriage is essential to building connection.

Keep Surprising

Sometimes the best defense is a good offense. Read relationship books together and discuss the ideas presented by the author, then apply what you learned to your life to strengthen your bond. Or, attend a marriage conference to freshen your relationship and communication skills. Hearing encouragement from other couples who have successfully navigated though similar family situations can give you the tools to build and strengthen your own relationship.

Just because you’ve been together forever doesn’t mean you should stop being spontaneous. Surprise your spouse by showing up at work and taking them to lunch, or dropping off an unexpected goodie bag filled with their favorite treats. On a smaller scale, don’t just text your partner the honey-do list or kids pick up schedules, but take the time to send a quick and thoughtful love note. 20 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Read a Book or Attend a Seminar

Memory Lane Go back to that restaurant where you had your first date or splurge on a nice bottle of wine and watch your wedding video together. Take yourself back to those special moments when you were head over heels in love to remind each other how much you care. Even though raising a family can be a juggling act, there is always time to invest in your marriage. Make communication, romance, intimacy and education a priority to strengthen your relationship so that you can model strong family values to your kids. Jonathan Ohayon is COO of Brilliance.com, known for its conflict-free diamonds and beautiful, luxury and eco-friendly jewelry that can be given for all occasions, whether it’s for a proposal, a wedding exchange, or to show your significant other how much you love them. Visit their site at Brilliance.com, follow them on Twitter @brilliancecorp and like them on Facebook.

A friendship founded on business is better than a business founded on friendship. John D. Rockefeller


Family Meeting How to have a

Growing up, family meetings were an integral part of my family’s dynamic; with four kids, we wouldn’t have gotten much done without them! Today, family meetings, or “table talks,” are still a useful tool in bringing the family together. Whether your family meetings are used to announce exciting news, to settle disputes or to discuss serious issues, here are a few tips to make yours run smoothly.

By Sarah G. Mason Decide the Frequency

Listen

Will you schedule your family meetings once per week, or only call upon them when there are pressing matters to attend to? More frequent family meetings encourage open communication, while less frequent meetings foster urgency.

No matter how insignificant you may think someone’s topic is, listen to them without interruption. This is the time when families can show their love and support of one another, and everyone’s voice should be heard.

Pick a Time

Mix Light and Heavy

After dinner is a great time to hold a family meeting since everyone is already together. If you have busy teenagers or children with full schedules, pick a time that works for everyone and note it on the family calendar.

Family meetings don’t have to be all doom and gloom. Instead of using this time to reprimand children for missed chores or to announce sad news, mix in a few positive comments to keep spirits up.

Discussion Topics

Bring Tasty Treats

Pin a sheet of paper to the fridge or hang a whiteboard in the family room so that everyone – kids included – can list the topics they’d like to discuss such as arguments with siblings, dinner ideas and proposed vacations.

Nothing brightens a meeting quite like a bowl of ice cream or a bag of popcorn! Prepare a fun snack to help brighten the mood of your family meeting, especially if the topic in question is a negative one.

LITTLE STORE JUST GOT BET T S E G TER! G I B E H T

RENT

THE LATEST RELEASES

28 DAYS BEFORE RED BOX WITH

FIRST RELEASE DVD KIOSK

All are lunatics, but he who can analyze his delusion is called a philosopher. Ambrose Bierce

ICE BEER CUPS SODA CIGARETTES GROCERIES SNACKS VISIT PARADISE FOR ALL YOUR NEEDS ON THE CORNER OF 34TH ST & W UNIVERISTY AVE Flourish Magazine | March/2014 21


8Worth-It

Splurges

You’ll Want to Make By Katie M. Moss Just because you aren’t the wealthiest person on the planet doesn’t mean you can’t splurge every once in a while. In many cases, cut-rate buys aren’t as charming as they seem, and it’s times like these when the extra money is worth it. Here are a few items on which you may want to consider spending more. A Juicer: Whether or not you think juicing is great for you, one fact remains the same – you’ll spend a lot less money on a nice juicer than you will buying tasty smoothies, cartons of orange juice or juice boxes for the kids every week. A juicer is an excellent investment towards your overall health – as long as you commit to using it. Feminine Hygiene Items: Have you ever tried the bargain brands for tampons or sanitary pads? Some may work reasonably well, but many are simply not up-to-par. Your period is something you don’t want to mess with, and you’ll need a quality product to get you through this trying time. Insurance: You can never predict what life will bring. That’s why it’s important to have quality insurance coverage. While that cut-rate insurance policy may seem like a good idea now, you’ll be singing a different tune when a troubling event occurs. Spend the money now and feel secure in your decision to do so.

18 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Perfume: Cheap perfume can be appealing because of its price tag, but every woman should have her own quality, long-lasting scent, and this usually involves spending a bit of cash. If you use your perfume only for nights out or special occasions, you’re in luck – it should last you for quite some time. High-Quality Heels and a Little Black Dress: There’s nothing worse than achy feet and an itchy tag, so invest in at least one high-quality outfit. A nice pair of heels is essential for job interviews and first dates, and they’ll help you feel like you can conquer the world. A little black dress is a staple for special nights, and it’s always great to have one to pull out of your closet at a moment’s notice. A Little Bottle of Something for Special Occasions: Sometimes special occasions really sneak up out of the blue, and they deserve celebrations! Keeping a nice bottle of champagne or high-quality scotch around for these events is a great idea. That

way, you can concentrate on the event at hand instead of making a mad dash to your local supermarket or liquor store. Decent Makeup: Drug store bargain makeups simply don’t cut it. From flaking to quickly fading, they simply don’t match up to the more expensive brands. Avoid the cheap materials and sketchy chemicals and go at least middle-of-the-road in terms of makeup pricing to get the best value from these products. There are so many reasons to spend a bit more on a quality blush palette or mascara. Exercise: No, you don’t have to join a super-expensive gym. You should, however, put some amount of money into your physical well-being. Whether it’s purchasing quality running shoes or deciding to attend some community yoga classes, exercise is an important part of a woman’s overall well-being. It’s also a great way to release stress.

I’ve had a wonderful time, but this wasn’t it. Groucho Marx


Dark

flow and prevent blood clots. Better yet, cocoa and chocolate By Sarah naturally contain minerals vital G. Mason for your heart’s health, including copper, magnesium and potassium. Talk about a hearthealthy treat!

Chocolate Next time you’re looking to indulge, look no further than dark chocolate; it’s an extraordinary choice if you want a guilty pleasure, minus the “guilty.�

Chocolate lovers everywhere rejoiced when we discovered that dark chocolate is good for more than just satisfying a sweet tooth. As it turns out, this delicious dessert is great for your health, too. Of course, this isn’t your cue to gobble down your weight’s worth in candy bars, but it does mean you can enjoy this succulent treat while knowing you’re doing your body good, too.

We all know dark chocolate is good for the soul, but at it turns out, it’s good for your heart, brain and teeth, too. A study conducted by the American Journal for Clinical Nutrition found that dark chocolate decreases blood pressure and improves insulin sensitivity, promoting cardiovascular health. Furthermore, studies show eating small amounts of dark chocolate can improve blood

“Quality seafood seasoned just right. Best in Gator Country.� - Sasha

Increased blood flow doesn’t just benefit the heart; the brain is better off, too. More blood to the brain means improved cognitive functioning and a decreased risk of stroke. Dark chocolate also encourages the brain to release several moodboosting chemical compounds, such as endorphins and enylethylamine, which is the same chemical your brain produces when you fall in love. No wonder chocolate is so often gifted on Valentine’s Day! As for your teeth, it might not seem like a sugary treat could possibly be dentist-approved, but dark chocolate is an

laxed, e r , y l d n “Frie e. But m o h t a g like eatin ook this myself c I couldn’t his price.� for t - Dan

Come in and Get Hooked!

,*%4 &"5 '3&& 5)634%":4

4*(/ 61 '03 063 &."*- $-6# 50 3&$&*7& " '3&& "11&5*;&3 5)&8)"3'&913&44 $0.

We didn’t lose the game; we just ran out of time. Vince Lombardi

exceptional candy. It contains theobromine, which has been shown to harden tooth enamel, consequently reducing your risk of cavities. Dark chocolate is also calcium-dense, which we all know is a chief supporter of strong bones and teeth. So, feel free to use those pearly whites to enjoy some delicious darks.

“Freshest s And I can eafood in town. af several timford to eat here es a - Georgia week!�

FAST-CASUAL DINING %*/& */ t $"33:065 t $"5&3*/( 48 5) "7&/6& t .0/ '3* ". 1. 4"5 /00/ 1. 46/%": /00/ 1.

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 19


y iew B s Interv Douglas n e r Lau s By Photo Svenson Peter

16 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

It’s kind of fun to do the impossible. Walt Disney


Rebecca Da Costa is more than just a bombshell Brazilian. This gorgeous and alented model made the switch to acting just four years ago, but she’s taking Hollywood by storm. Today, Da Costa talks with me about her lead role in the new thriller The Bag Man, gives us a peek at what it’s like working with Robert De Niro, and shares a few thoughtful words of wisdom for big dreamers. Tell me about The Bag Man. What was it like to film? It was great. It was all night shoots, so we started shooting from 6pm until 6am every day for two months. Plus New Orleans is full of wildlife, and like three or four times we had an alligator show up to the set.

Were you intimidated working with the cast? No, not at all! By the time I heard the news that I was on the project, I was already so focused so there was no place for me to be nervous or intimidated. When I started the project, John Cusack was signed on to do it, and even though I’m a big fan of his work, I think that the secret to not being nervous is to prepare yourself.

What is Robert De Niro like in person? He’s really nice! He’s very quiet, very humble; I was very surprised because he’s been around for, what, forty years? So I didn’t know what to expect, but we exchanged ideas and I was happily impressed.

Did he give you any pointers? Yes. For instance, there was a scene in the movie where I was supposed to be ignoring him, and there was a big harp on the set in the house. He saw it and said, “Why don’t you play the harp?” We asked the director about it and he asked if I knew how to play the harp. I said no, of course not [laughs], but we improvised and the scene turned out amazing. We were very creative and he was very open to that.

Tell me about the film. What can viewers expect? It’s a very interesting movie. I don’t want to say it’s a love story because it’s not, but it’s

about two people coming out of the darkness. John Cusack is a hit man and he’s really tired of it and just wants to quit, and my character happens to be in the same motel that he is. You don’t really know much about her, but throughout the movie layers start to come off. The interesting thing is, my character’s hair changes all the time. I have three different hair colors in this movie.

students. I’m six feet tall, and all the kids were short and were very impressed, as if they weren’t used to seeing such tall women, so I stopped the entire class and they all came to me asking for pictures. It was the sweetest thing and really was a great moment.

Oh wow!

Acting, 100 percent. The modeling helped me a lot with acting and with life experiences in front of the camera, which can be intimidating, but acting is a whole different world. You have to be fully committed.

Yeah, it’s really crazy! I have blue hair, I have blond hair and I have black hair. So you have all these physical, visual layers, and many other outer layers that aren’t as physical. Such an exciting movie! And it’s got a great cast: Robert De Niro, John Cusack, Dominic Purcell from Prison Break, Crispin Glover who plays an amazing character who’s very weird. It’s a very artistic, film noir type of movie.

So tell me about your time as a model. What was it like? It was very exciting. It all started when I won a contest in my hometown in the northeast of Brazil, and I left home at fourteen. For me, I just thought it was exciting. I didn’t think about the dangers of being off in the world at fourteen. Once I was with the agency, though, they advised us and protected us and I traveled around the world for seven years. I speak four languages, and I met a lot of interesting people and it was an amazing life experience. It seems that people my age don’t get to experience that, and it helps me as inspiration for my acting.

What were some of your best memories? There was one time I went to Bali to do a campaign. It was my first time there, and the place was very spiritual. We went to shoot at a temple where there were all these

Black holes are where God divided by zero. Steven Wright

Which do you prefer, modeling or acting?

Based off of your experience, what’s some advice you could give to younger women? Look, I come from a very simple family in Brazil, but here I just made a movie with Robert De Niro. You just have to believe in yourself and go with it. Sometimes you have a dream that’s so far away, you don’t even know where to start. You think “I’m in Brazil, how am I going to get to Hollywood?” But when you’re focused, you’ll attract the right opportunities into your life.

What are some of your long-term goals? I have two other movies coming out this year, Mine Games that’s a thriller, and Breaking at the Edge where I play the lead opposite Milo Ventimiglia and Andie MacDowell. Other than that, I’d love to be in a musical, and I just want to keep doing things that excite me. If you look at my career, all the movies I’ve done so far are very different, so I’m going to keep challenging myself.

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 17


Silk’n Renuva Face Mask The ultimate solution in the fight against the signs of aging. This beauty treatment helps to brighten, revive and smooth skin, while reducing the appearance of fine lines and wrinkles. It is both relaxing to use at home and soothing for irritated skin. $17.99 silkn.com

Manuka Doctor Skin Serum Enriched with purified Bee venom, Manuka Honey and Royal jelly, this serum helps balance and improve imperfections on the skin. It is clinically proven to help reduce acne-causing bacteria and it provides relief to blemish-prone or oily skin and refines the skin’s texture. $39.90 dermaconcepts.com

Environ’s AVST Eye Make-up Remover This eye makeup remover is an oil free product that gently removes makeup without drying the skin around the eyes. It contains Honeybush Tea extract and a mild fragrance making it ideal for sensitive skin and contact lens wearers. $44 dermaconcepts.com

Clairvoyant Beauty Refreshing Cucumber Toner Keep skin balanced and toned with this invigorating facial toner. Uniquely formulated with a blend of healing cucumber and firming aloe vera juice, this skincare must-have helps soothe irritation and reduce swelling while leaving behind a clean and rejuvenating scent. $24 clairvoyantbeauty.com

14 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Maybe this world is another planet’s Hell. Aldous Huxley


March

Mani’s

(Scotch Naturals!) Treat those dull nails to a little spring pickme-up with these fresh and fun colors from Scotch Naturals. Every product is 100 percent free of gluten, fragrances, toxins and parabens, and they are hypoallergenic and biodegradable. Create a combo with the Detox Pack which includes your choice of color, a fortifying base coat and the deluxe top coat for just $40.50. See, not all Scotch is bad for you! by Amy Smith Colors $14.99 • Neat • Ceasefire • Leprechaun Lynch • Caleigh • Highland Fling • Morning Glory Fizz • Stiletto • Lemon Highlander • Celtic Mix • Bitter and Twisted • Man of the Moment

On the Rocks Top Coat $14.99 Use this deluxe top coat to protect nails from scratches and provide an extra boost of shine.

Sticky Base Coat $14.99 This fortifying sticky base coat nourishes nails while providing the perfect foundation for polish. It significantly extends the life of the lacquers while assisting in adhesion and durability.

Scotch Soy Polish Remover $11.99 Formulated to remove both water-based and solvent-based nail polish safely and naturally. Please Note: There are no soy proteins in this remover so those with soy sensitivities should not experience adverse reactions.

scotchnaturals.com I begin by taking. I shall find scholars later to demonstrate my perfect right. Frederick (II) the Great

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 15


Skinny The

on

Skincare Interview by Lauren Douglass

We all know the basics of skincare: Slather on the sunscreen, drink plenty of water and please, avoid the tanning bed! But what about those not-so-obvious healthy skin habits? Here to answer our questions about wrinkles, stretch marks and acne is Dr. Paul Jarrod Frank, Cosmetic Dermatologist and founder of 5th Avenue Dermatology Surgery and Laser Center.

What's one simple thing woman can add to their daily routine to take better care of their skin?

What's the biggest mistake you see women make in regards to their skin's health?

It’s important to stay hydrated and get your rest! Use sunscreen or a tinted moisturizer that contains SPF. Even during winter, you should use moisturizer with sunscreen, though you can switch to a thicker cream because skin is very susceptible to drying out during the winter.

Don’t moisturize unless you need to. Someone with oily skin doesn’t need to moisturize.

What causes wrinkles? How can women prevent them? Wrinkles typically result from age, genetic predisposition and most importantly, sun damage. Also, collagen and fat production in the face decrease as we age, resulting in sagging and wrinkled skin.

Once you have wrinkles, are they there for life or can you reverse them? Lasers are a popular treatment to resurface wrinkles on the face. Currently, the state of the art technology is called fractional skin resurfacing. The Fraxel Restore and Fraxel Repair lasers are the gold standard for wrinkle resurfacing as far as safety and efficacy. Belotero is another wrinkle treatment. It’s a hyaluronic acid filler and is the only fine line filler on the market. Belotero rehydrates your skin and integrates with your dermal tissue to provide evenness and enhance facial contours, which gives you natural looking results. It’s administered by dermatologists to treat fine lines around areas such as the eyes and mouth, cheekbones, lips, the back of hands, bridge of the nose and frown lines. Typically, results last anywhere from six to 12 months, though some patients experience results that last for over a year.

Does a woman's skincare need to change as she ages? Mature skin may need additional moisture, both day and night, especially when it’s cold. Mature skin doesn’t necessarily mean dry skin, though. Use anti-aging products and products that help with hyperpigmentation like retinols or creams containing AHA's. These products encourage cell turnover and leave the skin smooth and exfoliated. 12 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

What's the number one threat to women's skin? A big threat is actually constant traveling. It can really cause skin to freak out. Flying takes a toll on skin due to the recycled oxygen in planes and the altitude, both of which dehydrate skin. Skin is also damaged by the the drastic changes in weather and climate when you travel from one destination to the next. It sends it into shock.

What can we do to keep our skin healthy while traveling? It’s important to stay hydrated. A one liter bottle of water is enough to drink during a flight, but get a head start and begin hydrating the night before. Depending on where you’re traveling, you should tweak your skincare routine. If you’re heading somewhere cold and windy, for example, refrain from exfoliating for a few days prior to your trip and use a heavier moisturizer.

What about stretch marks? Any tips on preventing or reducing those? Topicals like Retin A will play a role if there is brown in the stretch mark because it helps lighten the discoloration. When stretch marks are red and relatively new, the VBeam pulsed-dye laser can remove the redness, improve the texture and stop the scar’s progression in its tracks. More recently, Fraxel Restore has been shown to effectively improve white or brown stretch marks without risk to the skin. In only four or five treatments, 85 percent improvement can be seen.

How does diet affect the health of your skin? Foods that cause inflammation such as dairy, sugar and carbohydrates are the most damaging to the skin. If you’re acne prone, minimize dairy, sugars and simple carbohydrates. Replace these foods with more proteins and vegetables that are rich in color. A diet that has a lot of dairy in it is 'pro inflammatory,' meaning that it can exacerbate any condition, like acne, that involves tissue inflammation. Fish and fish oil are very beneficial for healthy glowing skin. A diet rich in healthy fats such as almonds, avocado and fish will have a big impact on the overall health of your skin, too.

Facts are the enemy of truth. Don Quixote - “Man of La Mancha


Spring

Beauty By Amy Smith

René Furterer Naturia Dry Shampoo Redefine convenience with this easy-touse, yet effective dry shampoo. The water-free formula cleanses and purifies the hair between regular shampoos and blowouts to restore volume while refreshing hair with a light scent. $12–$24 renefurtererusa.com

René Furterer Fioravanti Shine Enhancing Spray This no rinse formula is perfect for hair needing a boost of radiance. The active plant ingredients work together to restore shine to even the most lackluster locks while instantly detangling and hydrating. $26 renefurtererusa.com

René Furterer Okara Radiance Enhancing Spray Keep hair color as radiant as the first day it was applied with this leave-in formula that repairs and rebuilds color-treated hair. Key ingredients include Okara extract, Hamamelis extract, Double UV filter and Vitamin E and Cationic polymers to gently detangle hair. $26 renefurtererusa.com

René Furterer Volumea Volumizing Foam Visibly increase hair strand volume by up to 11 percent with this formula for long-lasting airy volume, softness and easier styling without weighing hair down. The foaming texture creates volume from hair root to ends while adding a clean and fresh scent. $23 renefurtererusa.com

Black Mask Formulated with freshwater silt sourced in Eastern Europe and the highest quality earth clays, this intensive mask deep cleans skin, removes build-up, softens and moisturizes. $32 revisionskincare.com

Revision Skincare Revox II This best-selling serum works to enhance the effects of non-surgical in-office treatments or provide anti-aging results as a stand-alone skincare solution. Two acetyl peptides help to relax muscle movement in the face and soften the appearance of lines in areas that are typically less receptive to anti-aging treatments. $86 revisionskincare.com

NEW Freeze 24-7 Skin Blizzard Intensive Hydrating Facial Serum Deliver intense hydration to renew dry, damaged and dehydrated skin. This unique formula applies to skin like a serum, with a rich luxurious texture and dries down to an oil finish. The ingredients soothe, tighten and tone skin leaving it hydrated, healthier and younger looking. $95 Nordstrom, Bloomingdales and freeze247.com

I have not failed. I’ve just found 10,000 ways that won’t work. Thomas Alva Edison

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 13


)08 50

"/%

-*7& #&55&3 -0/(&3

Balance diets, exercise, stress and work to avoid the top three causes of death in America (heart disease, cancer and stroke) and live a long, '&&- 5)& #63/ happy life. Studies show that

'-&9*#*-*5:

19

453&/(5)

16

$"3%*0

Regular exercise is the best way to burn calories to help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

individuals who are 20 percent or more overweight run a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease, stroke, arthritis, and some forms of cancer.

hrs

Time required to lose 1 lb:

'*5/&44

07

$"-03*&4 #63/&% 1&3 )063

hrs

Cardio

(Jogging & Walking):

hrs

Flexibility

(Yoga & Pilates):

*Estimated calories burned were calculated for a 150-pound individual exercising at a light to moderate intensity level and doesn't include adjustments to diet.

6/%&3 13&4463&

453&44 While too much or too little stress can be an emotional burden and physical danger, the right balance can motivate productivity.

Unmanaged reactions to stress are a more dangerous risk factor for cancer and heart disease than either cigarette smoking or high cholesterol foods.

"OYJPVT

0QUJNVN

-08

Talking: Choose a friend or conďŹ dant you can trust to be impartial and empathetic.

Writing: Putting your emotions into words can help you focus as well as relieve your pent-up anxiety and frustration.

*OFGGJDJFOU

"MFSU #PSFE

)&-1 3&-*&7& 453&44 #:

Meditating: Find a place - physical or mental or peace and serenity in your life. It may be a retreat, a room in your house, a park near your work or a favorite vacation spot.

3&410/4&4 50 453&44

4UJNVMBUFE

Strength

(Weight Lifting & Wall Squats):

)*()

Being Present: Being present in the moment will improve your personal relationships.

&YIBVTUFE &GGFDUJWF

10 Flourish Magazine | March/2014

*OEFDJTJWF I shall not waste my days in trying to prolong them. Ian L. Fleming


(3&&/4 ,BMF 4QJOBDI $PMMBSE (SFFOT Nutrient: Lutein Helps: Prevent certain cancers, Improves eye health

-&(6.&4 #FBOT -FOUJMT 1FBT Nutrient: Soluble Fiber

%*&5

Helps: Lower cholesterol, reduce the risk of heart disease, control blood sugar levels

Include super foods in your meals to take advantage of their proven beneďŹ ts and essential nutrients.

#&33*&4 1VSQMF (SBQFT 4USBXCFSSJFT #MBDLCFSSJFT Nutrient: Phytoavinoids, Vitamin C, Potassium Helps: Reduce the risk of heart disease, lower the risk of cancer, reduce blood pressure

'00% '03 5)06()5 Most vending machine items contribute to a variety of health issues including obesity, diabetes and heart disease, as well as behavioral issues such as hyperactivity, fatigue and aggression.

'*4)

/654

"MBTLBO )BMJCVU "MCBDPSF 5VOB 4BSEJOFT 4BMNPO

"MNPOET 1JTUBDIJPT 8BMOVUT 'MBYTFFE

Nutrient: Omega-3 Fatty Acids

Nutrient: Mono-unsaturated Fats, Omega-3 Fatty Acids, Plant Sterols

Helps: Reduce the risk of heart disease, Decrease some arthritis symptoms, Help improve depression, Memory loss

Helps: Lower cholesterol, Reduce the risk of heart disease, Reduce inammation

803, *5 Happier professionals are healthier professionals. But only three percent of professionals set career-driven goals to improve their productivity and happiness in the workplace.

4 41&$*'*$

Be deďŹ nitive and straightforward about the goals you want to achieve.

$"3&&3 Set SMART goals to challenge yourself and grow in your career. Achieving professional goals will not only make you happier but keep you healthier.

.

"

.&"463"#-&

"55"*/"#-&

Think about ways to measure and thus manage your goals.

Determine goals you can achieve, especially if you need to stretch yourself to get there.

If you can count your money, you don’t have a billion dollars. J. Paul Getty

3 3&-&7"/5

5

Consider how your career goals relate to your personal and overall life goals.

5*.&-:

Set a deadline to deďŹ ne when you should complete your goal.

Flourish Magazine | March/2014 11


10 Tips for Traveling

Outside the U.S. By Katie Moss

For months, we look forward to summer; a season known for being fun and frenzied. We rush around, trying to squeeze vacations and beach days around our responsibilities. However, afterwards we’re exhausted from trying to do it all. Image consultant Marla Tomazin has a few tips to share that will not only help prevent the stress of the season, but allow you to make the most of it. 1) Take Advantage of ATMs If you use your credit card at every spot you stop, you’ll likely be charged an additional foreign currency fee for each transaction. Instead, hit up the ATM for your purchasing needs. Not only is it easier to get local currency from an ATM, but it’s also helpful to have cash on hand for transportation, vendors and in case of emergency.

2) Tell Your Bank Unless you alert your bank to your travel plans, they may deem your overseas spending “suspicious” and put a hold on your credit card. Although they do this to protect you, the last thing you want while traveling abroad is a blocked credit card. Call your bank beforehand and give them your itinerary. Upon return, check your bank statements. Identity theft can happen abroad, too.

3) Bring a Power Adapter In order to use electronic items like computers and hairdryers, it’s essential that you bring a power adapter. You can purchase one from most travel magazines or on Amazon.

4) Ditch the Cell It’s no secret that traveling abroad can rack up some serious cellphone charges. Although it’s possible to research international plans, in order to avoid any dispute, ditch the cell. If you think you may have difficulty parting with your phone, just remember that it’s part of the experience of getting away!

5) Bring Snacks Especially if you have a restricted diet or food allergies, bring snacks along for the trip. You will save time and money by stashing a few easy treats in your carry-on. Chips, nuts and dried fruit are always great options.

6) From Carry-On to Overnight Bag No matter your destination, there is one risk that no airline passenger can avoid: Lost luggage. If an airline loses your belongings, the last thing you want is to be stuck with only a pillow, headphones and a book. Pack a day’s worth of clothing and hygiene supplies in your carry-on just in case.

7) Do a Little Research, (But Not Too Much!) When planning your vacation, there’s bound to be some exciting spots you’d hate to miss. For these, it’s good to have an itinerary. However, an extensive itinerary can be more headache than it’s worth; why not leave a day or two open for unplanned exploration?

8) Bring Copies It happens to us all: We lose things. Come prepared with an extra copy of your passport and any other important documents you may need. This way, you don’t have to worry about getting stuck in a different country!

9) Check with Your Doctor Are you up to date on all of your vaccines? You should be – especially if you’re traveling abroad! Make sure you understand your health insurance coverage and bring your card with you in case of an emergency. In addition, don’t forget your prescriptions, even the simple ones like extra contacts – you certainly wouldn’t want to forget them!

10) Leave Your Valuables Behind A vacation abroad isn’t the time to flaunt your family’s dearest heirloom. Leave all valuables home and in a safe place, and have a trusted neighbor keep an eye on your house while you’re away.

Above all, be confident and use your best judgment when traveling abroad. Do this, and you’re sure to have a great trip!

8

Flourish Magazine | March/2014



Spring Cleaning

Your Life

By Jen Joas, MyUrbanHalo.com

Today’s mom has a full schedule filled with work, kids and home duties. Add to that a cluttered living space and a stressful day, and you’re sure to land in chaos! Create a system to keep the disorder under control in your home and your life by using these simple tips:

Get Organized Do you have a hard time finding things in your closet? Try categorizing your clothes on hangers by separating garments according to season or style. Then, turn all the hangers backwards. Each time you wear an item, switch the hanger forwards again. This way, you can see what has – and more importantly, has not – been worn. Twice a year, donate anything that you haven’t worn. Are your storage closets overflowing? Store items in labeled containers, which can be stacked to create more space. For things you use regularly, label each shelf so that everyone knows where items belong. Add shelving and hooks in your garage to store items that are used seasonally – it will make putting things away a breeze! Plus, getting items off the floor will help you stay organized, keep objects from being broken and save time. 6

Flourish Magazine | March/2014

Donate Keep a box labeled “donations.” As kids grow up and outgrow their clothes, put them in the box. Then, when it’s full, drop it off at your local charity. Many charities have drop boxes at shopping centers to make giving quick and convenient. Over time, kids accumulate toys, toys and more toys. As toy boxes start to overflow, consider passing them down to younger family members or donating them to a local daycare, church or pediatrician’s office. Gently used toys can benefit other kids in your community long after your child has grown out of them. As an added bonus, you can make your child a part of the process to teach them the concept of giving. Donating your time is one of the greatest gifts you can give. Volunteer at a soup kitchen, tutor kids in math or reading, take meals to shut-ins or bake cookies for your neighbors. Teaching kids the gift of service is best learned by modeling, so include them in your volunteer activities.

Work Out Your Body and Mind Stay physically active to clear the clutter from your mind and reduce stress. Get involved in activities that the entire family can participate in like nature walks, hikes or a game of basketball.

Try Yoga Yoga stills your mind and puts you in touch with your body, allowing you to improve your posture, flexibility, strength and balance. It also encourages a focus on breathing and meditation, which can bring you into the present moment of total relaxation.

Meditate Whether you practice tai chi, meditation or prayer, finding time to connect with yourself on a deeper level can help clear your mind and keep life in perspective. Learning to be present in the moment makes you a better spouse, a better parent and a better version of yourself. When life starts to feel overwhelming, take a look around and see what’s out of balance. Getting back to basics and simplifying your lifestyle will do wonders for your outlook. Jen Joas, Wellness Expert and mom, offers her words of wisdom for busy, hard-working moms. Jen Joas is the founder of UrbanHalo, fun and flirty no slip, no sweat and no headache headbands that are as practical as they are stylish for on-the-go and trendy moms. To keep up-to-date on news and upcoming UrbanHalo products, visit MyUrbanHalo.com, “like” them on Facebook and follow them on Twitter @myurbanhalo

He is one of those people who would be enormously improved by death. H. H. Munro


Plant! Time to

Sweet Potatoes

These versatile veggies are popular during the fall, so plan ahead and plant now. Sweet potato seeds should be planted between March and June at no less than 12 inches apart.

Cucumbers

These refreshing veggies grow well in containers – a great option for those of us who don’t want to dig up our yards! Plant cucumber seed varieties such as Bush Champion between February and April, no more than two plants per 5-gallon bucket.

Okra

Plant now, grill later! Okra is a summer staple and can be planted as early as March through the month of July; space seeds six to 12 inches apart.

By Kat Freestone If you want juicy tomatoes and bulging watermelons by summer, the time to plant is now! Here’s a quick guide to help you navigate the perfect Gainesville planting times for all your warm-weather favorites.

Cantaloupes

These fresh, flavorful fruits should be planted mid-March to April. Plant seeds no less than 24 inches apart, one to two inches deep.

Tomatoes

Another summer classic, these red beauties should be planted between February and April at 18 to 24 inches apart. Don’t have time just yet but still want this homegrown favorite later on? Tomatoes have another short season in August.

Watermelon

Of course, what would summer be without cool, crisp watermelon? These babies need plenty of room to grow, so plant them in March or April at 60 inches apart.

I’m all in favor of keeping dangerous weapons out of the hands of fools. Let’s start with typewriters. Frank Lloyd Wright

Flourish Magazine | March/2014

7


Happy New Year! The sun is shining, the birds are chirping and freezing weather is hopefully far behind us. Spring is here, and we couldn’t feel more alive! This March, spring cleaning both our homes and our hearts is at the top of our list. In this issue, learn how to rejuvenate your body from the inside out with tips on skincare, fashion, beauty and relationships. Say goodbye to cold weather woes and embrace the people around you by taking advantage of affection – everyone from your spouse to your children and even their teachers deserve a little spring love! Your garden may need a little affection too, especially if you want thriving greenery come summer. Here, we’ll discuss the budget backyard makeover you’ve been craving and tips to help you get that garden going. It’s the perfect way to celebrate earth day every day. We wish you a happy spring!

Lauren Douglass

8JOOFS 2013

"XBSE PG &YDFMMFODF FROM THE

PUBLISHERS Lauren Douglass Marc Douglass Managing Editor Sarah Mason COPY EDITOR Daniel Sutphin Assistant EDITOR Mike Capshaw ART DIRECTOR Daniel Tidbury GRAPHIC DESIGN Daniel Tidbury Jane Dominguez Patrice Kelly Teresa Gresh Becky Snowden PROMOTIONS Amanda Liles Karen Jones AnnMarie DeFeo Anita Knittel ACCOUNTING Lynsey Parrish CIRCULATION Adam Simmons SPECIAL PROJECTS Lauren Kolansky Daniel Sutphin ADVERTISING DIRECTOR Shane Howell (shane@whpinc.com) ADVERTISING & SALES Shane Howell Mike Capshaw Susan Noddle WRITERS Debora Dyess Ginger Henderson Kevin Kage Heather Aulisio Kristy Wyatt Tyler Stevenson Connie Holubar Danielle Boudreau Kat Freestone Lauren Kolansky Katie Moss Katelyn Vilardel Truman Carter Kelly Herman

As always, we love 2013 hearing from you. So send us a note at "XBSE PG &YDFMMFODF mail@whpinc.com

8JOOFS FROM THE

What’s Inside… 6 Spring Cleaning Your Life 7 Time to Plant 8 10 Tips for Traveling 10 How to Live Better Longer 12 The Skinny on Skin Care 13 Spring Beauty 14 March Mani’s 16 Rebecca Da Costa 18 8 Worth-It Splurges 19 Dark Chocolate 4

Flourish Magazine | March/2014

20 Making Time For Your Marriage 21 Family Meeting 22 Epidural vs. Natural Childbirth 23 Worried About Too Much TV 24 Healthy Habits for Kids 25 Teacher Talks 26 Get Rich with the “ChaCHING!” instinct 28 Get the Job 29 Yes We Can

30 Dating a Coworker 36 All Natural Spring Cleaning 37 Green Coffee Beans 38 Sweet Potato Bisque 39 Low-Carb Onion Dip 40 Take Advantage of Affection 41 Mini Quiches On-the-Go 42 Your Next Great Read 43 Loving Yourself 44 What’s Happening: Events

Flourish Magazine is brought to you by What’s Happening Publications, Inc. For advertising opportunities, please contact us at 352-371-5881 or sales@whpinc.com. Magazine subscriptions are available at www.whpinc.com For subsciption related questions or concerns, please call 352-371-5881 .

www.whpinc.com

God is a comedian playing to an audience too afraid to laugh. Voltaire


THE BOARD OF DIRECTORS OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES PRESENTS

BENEFITING THE PROGRAMS AT CATHOLIC CHARITIES THAT HELP PEOPLE IN NEED IN OUR COMMUNITY

SATURDAY, MARCH 22, 2014 STEPHEN C. O’CONNELL CENTER UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA Cocktails begin at 6:00 pm Live and Silent Auctions

LIVE AUCTION HIGHLIGHT

Trip to Rome, Italy

includes roundtrip airfare and a week at the Sheraton Roma including Sheraton Club Privileges

MUSIC BY MARK GAIGNARD AND THE BARSTOOL PROPHETS TICKETS & SPONSORSHIP OPPORTUNITIES available at www.CatholicCharitiesGainesville.org For additional information call 352-224-6442 Catholic Charities is a Non-profit 501(c)3 and your donation is tax deductible in accordance with the law.

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS



We’re board-certified diplomates in obstetrics, gynecology, and compassion. DOCTORS Tracey Botha, M.D. Richard A. Brazzel, M.D. Kelly Chamberlain, M.D. Sheyna Carroccio, M.D. Jill Roscoe Delker, M.D. Karen E. Harris, M.D. Eduardo Marichal, M.D. Amy Million, M.D. Erin Connor Werner, M.D.

Building healthy relationships. MIDWIVES Julie Gaona, CNM Shana Martin, CNM

OBSTETRICS ___

Cindy Nelly, CNM Erin Smith, CNM

GYNECOLOGY ___ GYNECOLOGIC SURGERY ___ INFERTILITY ___ WELL-WOMAN CARE

352.332.7222 6440 W. Newberry Road Suite #508 Gainesville, FL 32605 Located at the Women’s Center at North Florida Regional Medical Center.

www.mynfwp.com


M a g a z i n e Taking on The Bag Man with

Rebecca Da Costa

Seeking

Success Tony Beshara Talks The Job Search Solution

The Ins & Outs of

Travel International

Skincare 101 with Dr. Frank FLIP FOR mor e flourish

Backyard Makeover

That Doesn’t Break the Bank North Florida MARCH 2014 Volume 1 Issue 19 www.MYFLOURISHMAGAZINE.COM

Quote here. Person Name

Flourish Magazine | Nov/2012

2


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.