Issuu

Lakeside Parent June 2014 | FREE

Award Winning Publication

A Magazine for the Families of Rockwall, Rowlett, Garland and more

Summer Safety Slip-ups

Must Ask Questions for Dad

Choosing an

Outstanding Get more at suburbanparent.com

Pediatrician

the know it all

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Mary shares... A Mothers Job is Never Done

une this year is so much more than a typical June. You know gardening, planning vacations, pool parties, camps and day trips. This year it’s a month of preparing for a transition from our son living at home to a young man preparing to leave for college. Have I taught him enough? Is he prepared to leave home? I know he is prepared. He had a great role model. His father. What was his father to him? Available. His father was there for him; encouraging him, challenging him, embracing him and loving him. I can remember from the very beginning, their connection was strong; their bond was tight. I will forever have the images of them in matching team jerseys, talking about sport team stats, reading the very first Harry Potter book together while both donning the black, round glasses as they read page after page. His dad supported all his interests with great fervor and admiration. He coached, he spent long hours on the golf course, he taught him to understand reason in difficult situations.

He modeled temperance when dealing with the struggles of decision making. Especially, most recently with all the decisions of college preparation! He allowed the challenging of ideas, wants and demands offered from our son; and guided him to resolution and finally a commitment. What overall was the most important trait his father modeled, I recently asked myself. I have to go with fortitude. The moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties and constancy in the pursuit of the good. It strengthens the resolve to resist temptations and to overcome obstacles in the moral life. While away from the confines of his home, he has his faith and strong sense of reason to help him when faced with challenges. And, of course, he has his biggest fans, his family. For me, I recognize that he has a good foundation, however, I just got off the phone with him and let me just say… “A mother’s love will never end and our work is never done!” SP

Mary Ellen

Fathers, do not exasperate your children; instead, bring them up in the training and instruction of the Lord. Ephesians 6:4

COVER MODEL McKinney, 2 Years

Our sweet cover this month stays very active and loves to play outside and blow bubbles. She also loves M&M’s and says they are “Yummy for my tummy!”. McKinney also has a big brother named Dayne. I bet she will share her M&M’s with him! Cover photography by: James Edward, jamesedward.com

Suburban Parent magazines Lakeside Parent 8344 Sterling Street | Irving, Texas 75063 | 972.887.7779 editor@suburbanparent.com | advertising@suburbanparent.com Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

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Tick-Tock To schedule or not to schedule, that is the question. And that will always be the question because no one, not even the experts, can agree on an answer. Whether it’s your first child or your fourth, knowing exactly when your baby should eat, play and sleep can be a challenge. But that’s okay as long as it all gets done. The thing to remember, whether you follow a parent-led schedule, a baby-led schedule or a combination of both, is that your baby’s well-being comes first. So follow your doctor’s advice and your own gut feelings to determine what your baby needs when, no matter what the schedule says.

lol

Laughing isn’t just good for our emotions it’s good for our bodies too. The Bible already knew this, “A cheerful heart is good medicine” (Proverbs 17:22, NIV). Studies have shown that laughing relaxes the whole body for up to 45 minutes, boosts the immune system and releases endorphins. All of this helps to fill your emotional tank. You can’t feel anxious, upset or angry when you’re laughing! Find ways to fit laughter into your days to fill your emotional tank. It’s as easy as having a silly conversation with a child or reading a cartoon.

youshouldknow... No Clarifying Shampoo?

WRITE IT DOWN

No Problem! While shampooing, massage 1 tablespoon of baking soda into your soaped-up hair. Rinse thoroughly. This should remove any build-up of hair spray or other hair styling products.

Rough & Ready! Mom doesn’t always like it, but the kids love it. And, come to find out, it’s actually good for them. Recent research claims that roughhousing “makes kids smart, emotionally intelligent, lovable and likeable, ethical, physically fit, and joyful.” How so? Roughhousing makes kids more resilient and rewires the brain for learning. It also builds social intelligence as they learn the difference between play and actual aggression. It teaches taking turns and the appropriate use of strength and power. Plus, it promotes an active lifestyle and creates a strong father-child bond. Things to remember when roughhousing though, is to keep it safe of course, don’t roughhouse before bed, and don’t forget the girls – it’s good for them too. So get off the couch, dad, and get down on the carpet. Wrestle with them; tickle them; let them ride on your back. It’s good fun, good exercise and good for you too!

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Keeping a gratitude journal will make you happier. Psychologists often recommend doing so and research shows that those who do are up to 25 percent happier than those who don’t. You can do it in a notebook once a month or on your iPhone every day; it doesn’t matter. And once you start doing it, you can’t help but recognize the goodness in your life. And that can lead to long-term health payoffs too, like lower blood pressure, a stronger immune system, better sleep and fewer bouts of depression.

Pre-K to Grade 12

Reading

Writing

Math

Grammar

Study Skills

Homework

SAT/ACT Prep

Your first step for a

better education

Research has proven that children who develop strong reading skills early in life learn better, are less likely to fall behind, and are more successful students. Our Little Readers速 program, for ages 3 to 5, gives your preschooler a head start toward school success. Small, half-day classes combine the perfect balance of reading, writing, math, and fun. Why not take that important first step, right now?

All Ages. All Grades. All Subjects.

Enroll Today! gradepowerlearning.com Garland

5435 N. Garland Ave., Ste. 130 Garland, Texas, 75040

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momsolvers

questions...

J. BROWN, MOM OF 2

JAMIE, MOM OF TWIN BOYS

HEATHER, FIRST TIME MOM

Q My husband and I just separated.

Q I am the bread winner in our

Q I am a first time mom and my

asks...

How do I make this an easy transition for our 1 and 2 year olds.

Separation is a difficult time for the entire family and any big changes can often be difficult to deal with. I think the attention and focus on the children is an important first step as noted in the question. Spending the time taking care of the children’s needs by both parents is vital during this transition. However, remember that you too are going through a transition yourself and making sure you are taking care of your own needs is just as important. If you are not taking care of yourself it will be difficult to care for others. Communicate with your kids before and during the transition to see how the change is affecting them. Kids are very observant and have feelings and thoughts about life themselves.

JASON S. CARTER M.A. LPC

ask... the OB/GYN! JOSHUA L. WEISS, MD Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist Medical City Hospital, Dallas

home and need to travel almost every week for at least 2 nights away from home. My husband has been resentful of this and I am not sure how to make our relationship better.

My husband travels with his job often, so I know how your husband may feel. My suggestion is to sit down with him and have a talk about this. Let him know that you appreciate all the work he does for your family and the home. Make plans together and put into the calendar your “alone” time. It is important to maintain your relationship as a couple to keep it strong. When at home, pitch in with the home-chores and more importantly, never criticize how he does them! Try to rest before coming home, if possible, so you’re not too tired to be active with the kids and him.

LESI, MOM OF 2 AND WIFE TO 1

asks...

pediatrician just recommended an infant dental exam. He has no teeth so I am curious about what to expect.

Your child depends upon you to help establish the habits and environment that could otherwise lead to preventable problems; therefore, the first visit, as well as subsequent ones, are designed to help you gain the knowledge and skills that will aid in the healthy development of your child. You’ll receive information about the proper care of your child’s teeth based upon risk assessment, dietary counseling, and anticipatory guidance about growth and development issues. So you see, as a new mother, there is a lot to learn! By making that first dental visit you will have a much greater chance of keeping your baby on a path to a healthy future!

MARK H. KOGUT, D.D.S., M.S.D.

I HAVE RECENTLY BEEN DIAGNOSED WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES. I AM 25 YEARS OLD AND IN GOOD SHAPE. HOW DID THIS HAPPEN, WILL I ALWAYS BE DIABETIC AND WILL IT HURT MY BABY? Diabetes affects 6-7% of pregnancies with 90% of these cases representing gestational diabetes. While certain ethnic groups as well as obesity and a sedentary lifestyle increase the risks for gestational diabetes, any woman can have gestational diabetes. It is projected that up to 50% of women with gestational diabetes will eventually develop diabetes later on in life. However, this figure is greatly influenced by risk factors such as ethnicity, obesity, family history and a sedentary lifestyle. Complications due to poor glucose control include larger babies which may increase the risks for birth trauma. After delivery, babies born to women with poor glucose control may also be at risk for low blood sugars and other complications. The risks to the baby can be significantly decreased by good control of your blood sugars. It is important to have diabetic education and learn to monitor your blood glucose levels.

EMAIL YOUR QUESTIONS to editor@suburbanparent.com, subject “questions” or SUBMIT QUESTIONS ON FACEBOOK.COM/MOMSOLVERS. Either way, we’ll find answers! 8 | Lakeside Parent | Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Lakeside Parent!

Troy A. Reimer, Attorney at Law Family Law Specialist

Divorce • Child Custody • Visitation • Community Property Division Adoption • Child Support • Alimony • Modification • Enforcement

972-771-5660

www.ReimeRlegalseRvices.com

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welove SPACE SAVER

highchair Babies are so sweet and so small, so why does all their stuff have to be so big? Well, here’s an option for the kitchen that will save you a little space. This high chair is a full-size high chair that straps to most kitchen or dining chairs, so it’s easy to store when not in use. (It’d be great for grandma’s house!) It has a machine-washable cover and a dishwasher-safe tray and holds up to 50lbs. It’s a great value too! Find this infant to toddler product at Babies R Us. $45

HomeTeam

APP!

Here’s an app for Dads (and Moms) with multiple kids on multiple teams playing multiple sports. Whether he’s the coach or just the kids’ biggest fan, this app will help him organize those busy sports schedules, plus keep track of team rosters and contact info. He can send and receive emails or texts and automatically add games to his device calendar. But the best feature is being able to view an all-in-one schedule for all his teams’ games. Making it to all those games? Well, that’s a different story. iTunes. .99

TACTILE Engagement

WIN THIS!

Here’s a neat way to combine the tactile experience of real toys with the iPad screen for your toddler. The Tiggly Shapes are rubberized toys shaped like a circle, square, triangle and star with silicon touch points for the iPad to recognize. Your kiddo can play with them using any of the 3 free Tiggly apps: Tiggly Safari, Tiggly Stamps, and Tiggly Draw. Safe and durable enough for your kids ages 18 months to 3 years. Gentle enough for your iPad. www.tiggly.com. S30

rbanparent

Diaper Dude! om .c

INE GO ONL nce a for a ch ! to WIN su

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Designed with dad in mind, this diaper bag comes complete with changing pad, cell phone holder, key rings and no flower print. Perfect for dads (and moms) on the go, it’s compartmentalized with enough space to hold all the baby essentials. Plus, it’s comfortable with its sporty messenger styling. And affordable too! All the cool dads should have one! www.diaperdude.com. $59.99

www.kidsinhometherapy.com

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Choosing an

Outstanding Pediatrician

O YOU’RE NOW IN YOUR 12TH WEEK OF PREGNANCY AND YOU ARE BUSY WITH ALL THE PREPARATIONS FOR THE NEW ARRIVAL TO YOUR LIFE AND HOME. I BET YOU HAVE DONE YOUR RESEARCH ABOUT THE SAFETY OF CRIBS, WHICH CAR SEAT IS THE SAFEST, BABY MONITORS, AND MAYBE EVEN A NAME. BUT HAVE YOU CONSIDERED WHO YOUR PEDIATRICIAN WILL BE? HERE ARE SOME TIPS AND SUGGESTIONS TO HELP YOU GET STARTED WITH CHOOSING A PEDIATRICIAN.

Ask Your Friends! You can trust their opinion and experiences. Make sure to ask several so you can have a few pediatricians to look into further. What did they like and dislike about their doctor? How does the doctor interact with their children?

Board Certified? You have every right to ask about their credentials. Being board-certified in pediatrics would be important criteria for you to consider. Being board certified would ensure that they are current on the latest medical advances and treatment policies. This is mandatory to maintain their board certification. Especially important if your child has special needs.

Are They Covered? If you have to choose within a network of doctors approved by your insurance company, it’s important to confirm their affiliation prior to

the interview process. You wouldn’t want to find the perfect doctor only to realize that you can’t use them.

Location, Location, Location. Keep in mind that between immunizations and well-baby check-ups you will have many visits to your pediatrician during your child’s first year. Chances are you’ll make a few extra trips with a sick baby as well; so if your child has a high fever and is crying, you won’t want to drive very far to get there.

Where do you stand on important issues? What are your views on important areas of your child’s care? Are you going to breastfeed? Do you support co-sleeping? You would want to choose a pediatrician that can help you with your wants and needs for taking care of your little one. Keep in mind, you do not need to have everything figured out, but

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knowing a bit of what you have in mind would help you discuss caring for your baby with your pediatrician.

The Interview. Meet them at their office. While deciding on a pediatrician, whether you found them in a local parenting magazine or received a referral from a friend, go and visit them at their office. You will be able to see first-hand how their office is run. At this meeting ask the important questions. Are they available by phone or email? Do they have an after-hour call center? How about a nurse practitioner? What about a lactation specialist? And a very important question is their hospital affiliations. You may want them at the hospital when you deliver your baby. Is the atmosphere kid friendly? If there are some fun things there, you can remind them about the positives. “We’re going to see Dr. Williams today. Remember that fun slide he has in the waiting room? Maybe he will have more of those stickers you like to collect.” Is the environment clean and professional? Pay attention to patients waiting while you are there and observe how they are treated by the office staff. Are they seen by the doctor in a timely manner? Is there a separate waiting area for well babies? Your own instincts matter. You want to feel comfortable with your pediatrician because they will be the person you turn to when you have questions and concerns about your baby. Choosing someone to care for your precious child can be a difficult decision. You should choose the doctor that best suits your needs at this time. Should you discover later that you are not happy with the care your child is receiving, you can always switch. SP

4 Ways to Improve Parent-Doctor Communication During After Hour Calls Although it’s important to reserve routine questions you may have for normal business hours, you should feel comfortable calling your doctor 24/7 if there is a real concern.

CHECKLIST FOR CALLING THE DOCTOR:

1 2 3

Have a list of your child’s symptoms, so that you don’t leave anything out. Take their temperature prior to calling the doctor. Have a pen & paper ready to record any instructions. It‘s easy to forget details when you are worried about your child. Make sure to remind your doctor of any medical problems your child has now or has had in the past. If you are calling after hours they won’t have your child’s chart in front of them. Be respectful and show appreciation for your doctor’s time. Yes, it is their job, but keep in mind that you may be interrupting their family time. By being efficient with your questions for the doctor, it allows for both of you to get back to your families quicker.

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Let Dad Do What He Loves to Do...

Grill!

It’s great to be in the backyard grilling again. But don’t want another hamburger? Here’s an easy recipe for your next cookout. Dad will be the hero again!

the F

U pagN e

What you’ll need: - 1 ripe avocado, sliced - 1 tablespoon lemon juice - 1 large Vidalia onion, sliced into rings - 4 boneless, skinless chicken breast halves - Salt and pepper to taste - 4 hamburger buns - 4 tablespoons mayonnaise - 4 slices provolone cheese What you’ll do:

In a small bowl, combine sliced Season the chicken with salt and avocado and lemon juice. Add pepper. Place on grill, and cook water to cover; set aside. Preheat an until no longer pink and juices run clear, outdoor grill for high heat and lightly about 5 minutes on each side. Place oil grate. buns on grill just long enough to toast them. Heat butter in a large heavy

skillet over medium-high heat. Sauté the onions until browned and caramelized; set aside.

How true Daddy’s words were when he said: all children must look after their own upbringing. Parents can only give good advice or put them on the right paths, but the final forming of a person’s character lies in their own hands.  — Anne Frank

Spread buns with mayonnaise to taste, then layer with chicken, caramelized onion, provolone and avocado.

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM

LOL with James Estes!

SON: What did baby corn say to mama corn? DAD: Where’s popcorn? SON: For $10, I’ll be good. DAD: Oh, yeah? When I was your age, I was good for nothing. DAD: You’ll never amount to anything if you always procrastinate. SON: Oh yeah? Just you wait!

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One evening it took a good amount of time to get our son to bed. Once there, he yelled down, “Dad! Can you get me a glass of water?” My husband replied, “No son, you had your chance, now do not say another word or I will come up there and spank you.” This is when our son yells down, “Dad, when you come up to spank me can you bring me a glass of water?” Reader, our son is 7 years old.

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the

{ Your Community Calendar } June 2014

know it all

SP = Advertisers

sun 1

Summer Reading Early Registration Early registration for Summer Reading Programs will be accepted Jun 1-8. Summer Reading Programs officially begin June 9. Register online anytime, or in person at the library. Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main St., Rowlett 972-412-6161 www.rowlett. com/library

Concert by the Lake Series Jun 5-Jul 24, 7:30-10pm. The City of Rockwall brings you the Concert by the Lake Series! All concerts are free and start at 7:30pm at the Amphitheatre Stage. The Harbor-Rockwall, 2047 Summer Lee Dr., Rockwall 972-771-7740 www.rockwall.com/parks/ LiveMusic/bands2.asp

mon 2

fri 6

Mesquite Music in the Park Jun 2-30, Mon-

Rockwall Helping Hands Centsible Trade Days Jun 6-7, 10am-5pm. The Centsible Trade

days 7:15pm-9:15pm. The Mesquite Symphonic Band outdoor summer concert series “Music in the Park” begins its season. Bring your families and friends, lawn chairs, and blankets and relax to the sounds of marches, show tunes, classical numbers and contemporary music. Every Monday evening in June, the band will perform free concerts at Westlake Park. The concerts begin at 7:15pm and continue until dusk. The theme this year is “By Popular Demand.” Westlake Park, 311 Gross Rd, Mesquite 972-216-8125 www.Mesquite SymphonicBand.com

tue 3 JazzBreaks on the Plaza Jun 3-24, Tuesdays 7:30-9:30pm. Enjoy a month of jazz that features big band and contemporary jazz ensembles. JazzBreaks on the Plaza is all about jazz and family fun. Along with great food from Go-Diva Catering, hear Latin, funk, and contemporary jazz each Tuesday. Concerts are FREE. Picnic dinners sold on-site from Go-Diva Catering [reservations required]. Mesquite Arts Center Plaza, 1527 N. Galloway, Mesquite 972-216-6444 www.mesquite artscenter.org

thu 5 Mesquite Public Library Book Club 7-8pm. Each Month the Club will read a different book and then meet to discuss it. Mesquite Main Library, 300 W. Grubb Dr., Mesquite 972.216-6220 www.cityofmesquite.com

Inspirational Book Group at Barnes and Noble, Firewheel Mall Jun 5-Dec 4, 7:30-8:30pm. Barnes and Noble, 190 Cedar Sage Dr., Garland www.barnesandnoble.com

Days is a two-day shopping extravaganza that you don’t want to miss! Centsible Thrift Store, 950 Williams St., Rockwall 972-771-4357 www.rockwallhelpinghands.com

Mesquite ProRodeo Series Jun 6-Aug 23, 6:3010pm. This PRCA-sanctioned rodeo has been thrilling visitors since 1958. You’ll see calf-roping, barrel racing, bronc busting, bull riding-all of the traditional rodeo events, in AIR-CONDITIONED comfort. Doors open at 6:30pm, performances begin at 7:30. Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite 972-285-8777 www.mesquiterodeo.com

sat 7 Garland Art Fest 2014 10am-5pm. Come to the 2014 Garland ArtFest! There will be fine art, photography, craftsmen, painting, wood carving, jewelry, sculpture, artisans and more! Garland Historic Downtown Square, Main St. and N. 6th Street, Garland 866-242-8078 www.visitgarlandtx.com

Devil’s Bowl Speedway Races Jun 7-Oct 18, 6-10pm. Gates Open at 6pm; Races Start at 8pm, Admission $12. Races are most Saturdays MarSept. Check website for specific race dates/times. Devil’s Bowl Speedway, 1711 Lawson Rd., Mesquite 972.222-2421 www.devilsbowl.com

mon 9 SP Summer Chess Camp at UT Dallas Jun

9-13 Join beginner, intermediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-13. 9am-noon or 1-4pm and extended playing classes available. Other sessions June 16-20, July 14-18 and July 21-25.

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Register at www.utdallas.edu/chess. For more info, call 972-883-4899 or email james.stallings@ utdallas.edu. See ad in this issue.

Summer Reading Kick-Off Party 10am-12pm. Fizz, Boom, Read! Come and be a “Summer Reading Superhero” at the Summer Reading Program Kick-Off event. Enjoy games, bounce houses, crafts, and test your super skills!!! Sign up for the Summer Reading Program and see what fun and exciting events the Library has planned for readers this year! Library staff will be on hand to recommend great books for readers of all ages. Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett 972-412-6161

Summer Reading Program Begins for Adults Don’t let the kids have all the fun this summer! Enjoy a good book on these longer, lazier days! The theme for the summer is Literary Elements but you can choose whatever you want to read! Read one book every week and sign up for a chance to win prizes! Every week you read a book will increase your chances of winning the grand prize. The program will run from Jun 9-Aug 1. Stop by the Reference Desk or call the Rowlett Public Library for more information. Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett 972-412-6161

Summer Reading Program Begins for Children Children of Rowlett! Sign up at the Rowlett Public Library for the Summer Reading Club. Prizes will be given for reading! Great programs and performers every Tuesday from 2-3pm. Movies at the Library on Thursdays at 2pm. This year’s theme is Fizz, Boom, Read! Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main Street, Rowlett 972-412-6161

Summer Reading Program Begins for Teens This summer, join the Rowlett Public Library’s Summer Reading Program for Teens ages 10-18 and SPARK A REACTION. Readers are going to be rewarded this summer for reading! Program will run Jun 9-August 1. There are also programs for Teens on Wednesdays at 2pm and special movies on Thursdays at 2pm in the Meeting Room. Rowlett Public Library, 3900 Main St., Rowlett 972-412-6161

Rockwall Golf Classic Benefiting Helping Hands 11:30am-7pm. The Rockwall Classic Golf Tournament benefiting Helping Hands. Lunch and

registration at 11:30am, shotgun start at 1pm. Dinner at 5pm w/Awards and Door Prizes. Rockwall Golf and Athletic Club, 2600 Champions Dr., Rockwall contact kaydutta@rockwallhelpinghands.com for more information or register online at www.rockwallhelpinghands.com/ai1ec_event/rockwall-golf-classic/?instance_id=82#

wed 11 MOMS Club of Rockwall Monthly Meeting Jun 11-Dec 10, 10am-12pm. Being a stay-at-home mom doesn’t have to mean staying at home. Why not join us for speakers, crafts, playgroups, field trips, MOMS Night Out, and more. MOMS Club® of Rockwall, TX invites you to see what we are all about. Stay-at-home moms and their kids are finding support, friendship, and fun things to do in and around Rockwall County. We are a support group designed just for you, the at-home mother of today. For more information email RockwallMOMSClub@hotmail.com Rockwall Free Methodist Church, 315 Dalton Rd, Rockwall, Rockwall 972-772-7577 www.angelfire.com/tx5/ rockwallmoms

The Mystery Book Club at Barnes and Noble, Firewheel Mall Jun 11 -Dec 10, 7-8pm. Love to dive into a good mystery? Join our group of mystery lovers to read new mysteries and discuss them the second Wednesday of every month. Barnes and Noble, 190 Cedar Sage Dr., Garland www. barnesandnoble.com

thu 12 La Leche League of Garland 10-11am. Diana 972-202-7644 (Se Habla Espanol), Hannah 972-414-0527, Alison alisonegrady@yahoo.com. Peace Lutheran Church, 2929 S. First St, Garland www.texaslll.org

fri 13 Mesquite Community Theatre Presents “Arsenic and Old Lace” Jun 13-28. Mesquite Community Theatre presents the comedy, Arsenic and Old Lace by Joseph Kesselring. Spinster sisters Abby and Martha Brewster are devoted to charity and family. But they have taken on another project as well-befriending lonely older gentlemen and then poisoning them with arsenic-laced elderberry wine. Multiple dates/times, check the website for details. Mesquite Arts Center: Black Box Theatre, 1527 N. Galloway, Mesquite 972-216-8126 www.mesquitecommunitytheatre.com

Peter Pan by Garland Summer Musicals Jun 13-22. Join the Garland Summer Musicals for the world’s most celebrated musical! The young at heart of all ages will love it! Peter Pan is the enchanting story of a boy who didn’t want to grow up. You will be captivated by Peter Pan, Tinkerbell, the children, the pirates and the Indians of Never Never Land as they perform the show-stopping songs from this Tony Award winning musical. Multiple dates/times, check the website for details. Granville Arts Center-Brownlee Auditorium, 300 N. Fifth St., Garland 972-205-2790 www.garlandarts.com

sat 14 Rockwall County Fair 4-11pm. Things are about to get started at the first ever Rockwall Country Fair! We can’t wait to have you out for an evening of fun and to help you get your shindig on! From music to livestock and dancing to diamond digging, you are in for a real treat: country fair style! Best part is, this event’s proceeds benefit programs that help women & children! Rockwall Technology Park, 2610 Interstate 30 Frontage Road, Rockwall 760-419-5224 www.lsmdallas.wix.com/rockwallcountryfair

mon 16 SP Summer Chess Camp at UT Dallas Jun 16-20. Join beginner, inter-

mediate or advanced chess classes for ages 7-13. 9am-noon or 1-4pm and extended playing classes available. Other sessions July 14-18 and July 21-25. Register at www.utdallas.edu/chess. For more info, call 972-883-4899 or email james.stallings@utdallas.edu. See ad in this issue

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Your Community Story Times

the know it all tue 17

Garland - Central Branch 625 Austin St., 972-205-2517 Mon - Toddler Time 10am, ages 18-36mo.; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5 Garland - North Branch 3845 North Garland Ave., 972-205-2802 Wed - Wee Read 10:30am, ages 0-17mo. Fri - Toddler Story Time 10am, ages 18-36mo; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5 Garland - South Branch 4845 Broadway Blvd., 972-205-3933 Wed - Toddler Story Time 10am, ages 18- 36mo; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5. Sat - Family Story Time 10:30am, all ages Garland - Walnut Creek 3319 Edgewood Dr., 972-205-2585 Thur - Family Story Time 7pm, all ages Sachse Public Library 3815 Sachse Rd. Bldg. C, 972-530-8966 Thur - Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 2-6 Mesquite - Main Branch 300 W. Grubb Dr., 972-216-6220 Tues - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5;

Evening Story Time 7pm, all ages. Wed - Infant Lapsit Story Time 9:30am, ages 6-12mo; Young & Restless Story Time 10:30am, 13mo -2yrs. Thur Toddler Time 10:30am, ages18mo-3yrs. Sat - Story Time 11am, ages 6-18mo Mesquite - North Branch 2600 Oates Dr., 972-681-0465 Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5. Thur - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages18mo-3yrs Rockwall County Library 1215 E. Yellowjacket Ln., 972-204-7700 Mon - Toddler Story Time 10:15am, ages 2-3yrs; Preschool Story Time 11:15am, ages 3-6. Tues - Preschool Story Time 11:15am; ages 3-6. Wed - Toddler Story Time 10:15am, ages 2-3yrs; Preschool Story Time 11:15am, ages 3-6. Thu - Walkers Story Time 10:15am, ages 12-24 mo. Fri Walkers Story Time 10:15am, ages 12-24 mo. Rowlett Public Library 3900 Main St., 972-412-6161 Mon - Baby Story Time 10:30 (walking babies) & 11:30am (lapsit babies), ages 0-18mo. Wed Toddler Story Time 10:30am, ages 18mo-3yrs. Fri - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5

All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes. Call to confirm as schedules are subject to change.

Sachse-Wylie Authors Group (SWAG) Monthly Meeting 6:30-8pm. Join a motivated group of both experienced and new writers meeting to share ideas and learn from other writers! If you love to write, please attend. Whether your interest is fiction, non-fiction, articles, short stories…you are invited to attend and see if you would like to participate. SWAG meets at the Sachse Public Library on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. Ruth Glover (author, career coach and volunteer) facilitates the meetings. She writes career articles and has published MORE than a Paycheck: Inspiration and Tools for Career Change. She is eager to bring together people with similar interests to spark inspiration and creativity for writing. Sachse Public Library, 3815-C Sachse Rd, Sachse 972.530-8966 www.cityofsachse.com

Sci-Fi and Fantasy Book Group at Barnes and Noble, Firewheel Mall Jun 17-Dec 16, 7-8pm. Join us on the third Tuesday of each month for the ultimate in science fiction and fantasy books. Barnes and Noble, 190 Cedar Sage Dr., Garland www.barnesandnoble.com

thu 19 Friends of the Nicholson Library Monthly Meeting 6-7pm. The Friends of the Library Board meets every third Thursday of the month at the Central Library. Anyone interested in the activities of the Friends is welcome to attend. For more information visit the Friends of the Library page call 972-205-2543.Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library is a community organization supporting and promoting the Library. The Friends sponsors activities to raise funds for the purchase of library materials and equipment, and underwrites programming to benefit all library users. Garland Central Library, 625 Austin St., Garland 972.205-2543 www.nmls.lib.tx.us

Page Turners Book Discussion Group at the Garland Central Library Jun 19-Oct 16, 7-8pm. Are you a Page Turner? Would you like to be? The Library’s book discussion group meets monthly at the Central Library. All interested readers are invited to join the discussion or come just to listen. Walk-ins are welcome. Come on in and see what we’re reading! Please be aware that photographs and video may be taken at Library programs for use in print and/or electronic media at the Library’s discretion. June 26: Mr. Churchill’s Secretary by Susan Elia MacNeal. Garland Central Library, 625 Austin St., Garland 972.205-2502 www.nmls.lib.tx.us

fri 20 Mesquite Quilt Show Jun 20-21, 10am-5pm. “Mesquite Quilts 2014”. There is an admission fee of $5. Raffle tickets for the donation quilt are on sale for $1.00 or 6/$5.00. The quilt drawing will be June 21 at 4 p.m. Rutherford Recreation Center, 900 Rutherford Dr., Mesquite 972-216-7790 www.mesquitequiltguildinc.com

sat 21 The Marketplace in Garland Jun 21-Sep 20, 9am-2pm. Come to Historic Downtown Garland for the Marketplace the 3rd Saturday of the month from April to September. The public is invited to the Downtown Square for growers, produce, vendors and food. This is a great opportunity to support local artisans, craftsman, growers, and merchants. The Marketplace is produced by Eventive Marketing Solutions and benefits the Good Samaritans of Garland. For additional information please contact Jim Griffin at 214704-1967 or Kirk Lovett at 972-978-7759 or kirk@eventivemarketingsolutions.com. Historic Downtown Garland, Garland 214-704-1967 http://www. garlandtx.gov/cals

fri 27 Family Fun Fridays in Rockwall 6-10pm. Energize your weekend at a neighborhood park. Activities and games begin at 6pm, our feature film will start at dusk. Candy, popcorn, snow cones and glow sticks will be available for purchase. The movie for June is Frozen. Harry Myers Park (945 E. Washington). FREE. www.rockwall.com

mecaldwell.tsfl.com

Please note: Although we strive to bring you the most current information available regarding event dates & times, confirming with the event venue before going is always a good idea. SP

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BY PATRICK HEMPFING

Feelings grouchy

tired crazy orry miserable stupid s

his morning, my nine-year-old daughter, Jessie, and I sat in her pediatrician’s office. As we waited for the doctor, she sat beside me reading, “I Funny: A Middle School Story.” I don’t know anything about the book, but noticed the grammatically incorrect title. If I had written a story based on my mood at the time, I would have titled it, “I Grouchy: A Tired Dad’s Story.” My grouchiness surfaced at the same time as the tiny red spots on Jessie’s abdomen, which she scratched fiercely. A similar thing happened about ten months ago and her doctor had diagnosed it as scabies. According to About.com Pediatrics, “Scabies is a skin infection caused by an infestation with the microscopic Sarcoptes scabei parasitic mite. Although distressing for parents, who associate conditions like scabies and head lice with poor hygiene, scabies is actually fairly common.” WebMD adds, “Scabies can affect people of all ages and from all incomes and social levels. Even people who keep themselves very clean can get scabies.” I can confirm the “distressing for parents” part and, for the record, we shower daily. During our visit ten months ago, Jessie’s pediatrician had recommended that the whole family use a lotion to kill the mites. Prior to bedtime that evening, my wife, Mattie, applied

blessed

the lotion to Jessie’s entire body. How I felt as I crawled into bed, smothered in insecticide lotion, next to Mattie who was similarly covered, could best be described as, “I miserable.” The anti-mite lotion was only one step. We also needed to kill the mites not on our bodies. I vacuumed the entire house and everything in it (chairs, sofas, carpet, even the dog), plus both cars. I washed twenty loads of laundry, which took three days. I even put Jessie’s stuffed animals in the freezer to kill the mites. If someone had opened my freezer and discovered a stuffed monkey staring at them, they might have thought, “I crazy.” Today, as we drove to Jessie’s pediatrician, my feelings could be described as, “I sad.” Before the doctor’s office opened, I had already stripped both beds and had the washer and dryer running. The day is young and already, “I tired.” I don’t know what made me say this during the 15-minute drive, as I know how much Jessie hates shots, but I mentioned that at around age ten, children get more vaccinations. This caught Jessie’s attention, since her tenth birthday is only eight months away. She whined, “I don’t want to get a shot.” I clutched the steering wheel, thinking, “I stupid.” So, as I sit in the pediatrician’s waiting room, “I grouchy, I sad, I tired, I stupid.” Then, I notice a girl a year or two younger than Jessie who is clearly

sick. I hear a baby with a bad cough. I look over at Jessie; she’s focused on her book. Except for a little itch on her belly, all is well. Gratitude comes rushing in. “I lucky.” Since her belly began to itch, I’ve probably not been the most pleasant person to be around. Mattie would agree. When I get home, I will tell her, “I sorry.” The pediatrician’s diagnosis is that Jessie’s itch is due to mites from a pet she visited. But this mite is different from the kind she had before; it doesn’t survive on humans and goes away without treatment. “I happy.” Reflecting on this day, and another exciting parenting experience, I reach the following conclusions: As parents, we feel lots of intense emotions – I grouchy, I sad, I stupid, I lucky, I sorry, and I happy. Yet, in the pediatrician’s waiting room I was reminded, “I blessed.” Jessie just finished reading her book. She told me there’s another book in the series titled, “I Even Funnier.” I’m not sure what lies ahead in my parenting days, but I’m going to strive for “I Even Smarter,” which will be helpful when Jessie becomes a teenager. But whether I’m going through a joyous parenting moment (I proud) or a challenging time (I worried), one fact remains unchanged. “I Dad,” and that’s a great feeling. Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. SP

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BY SANDRA GORDON

Summer

Safety Slip-ups

o big deal, you think—so what if my child doesn’t want to wear his helmet. He can go for a bike ride without it just this once. Or you get caught up in conversation at a pool party instead of keeping an eye on your toddler. It’s no surprise that accidents happen, even when we’re trying to be careful. But because we’re outside more and the days are longer, summer can be an especially dangerous time. According to SafeKids Worldwide, there’s an 89 percent increase in children drowning in the summer months and a 45 percent surge in bike-riding deaths. Fortunately, turning your child’s summer into a safety zone is a matter of making a few precautionary tweaks. Here are some small risks you might be taking that can lead to big problems, and our top tips for avoiding them.

Slip-up: Leaving your child in the car. Each year, 38 children die from heat stroke after being left unattended in motor vehicles, according to Kidsandcars.org. The inside of a car can heat up quickly—to as high as 122 degrees F in less than 20 minutes on an especially hot day. Moreover, young children overheat faster than adults because they’re less able to regulate their body temperature.

Play it safe: Never leave your child in the car, even with the windows “cracked,” or even just for a few minutes. And keep in mind that a change in routine or a bad night’s sleep can easily lead to the unthinkable—driving to work with your sleeping baby in the car and forgetting that it’s your day to drop her off at daycare. To help you remember that your baby is in the car, put a soft toy in the front seat. Or

secure something you need, such as a purse or backpack, in the backseat near your baby. Also, get in the habit of checking to make sure that everyone has exited the car when you get to your destination and lock car doors when you leave so a curious toddler can’t climb in your car when you’re not looking. Keep your car keys out of your child’s reach too.

Slip-up: Keeping tiki oil within your child’s reach. Toddlers and older kids are drawn to anything that looks like juice. Tiki oil, which is used more in the summer to light tiki torches, comes in different colors, such as purple, blue and red, and can easily be upturned and ingested. In addition to being poisonous, “Kids can swallow it or breathe it into their lungs, causing aspiration pneumonitis, which can be fatal,” says Rose Ann Soloway, R.N., a clinical toxicologist at the National Capital Poison Center in Washington, D.C.

Play it safe: Store tiki oil in its original container out of your child’s sight and reach, in a locked cabinet just like you do medicine and vitamins. The same goes for gasoline, charcoal lighter fluid, antifreeze and windshield wiper fluid. These containers don’t have child-resistant caps. If you believe your child has ingested something potentially poisonous, call the Poison Control Center at 1-800-222-1222. Do this instead of heading directly to a hospital emergency room or call 911—you’ll get the fastest advice on how to handle the situation.

Slip-up: Assuming someone else is watching the kids. “At pool parties, many parents assume somebody else is watching. Mom assumes Dad’s watching. Dad assumes Mom’s watching and it’s easy to get distracted,” says Phyllis F. Agran,

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M.D., M.P.H., professor emeritus of pediatrics at the UCI School of Medicine, in Irvine, California. Even a few unsupervised minutes in the water can be deadly for a young child.

Play it safe: Assign a supervisor. One of you needs to be officially on duty and concentrating on your child. Don’t think it’s enough to make your older kids, who are having fun too, keep an eye on your younger ones. Make that supervisor your spouse or another adult.

Slip-up: Letting your older child ride his bike without a helmet. Studies show that kids ages 11 to 15 tend to wear helmets less often than younger ones.

Play it safe: Be on helmet patrol. A bike helmet can reduce the risk of bicycle-related traumatic brain injury by up to 88 percent. So, of course, you’ll want to make sure everyone— you included—are protected with a properly fitted helmet whenever you ride. Keep on your older child to always wear one.

Slip-up: Keeping the wading pool filled. “Young kids can drown in an inch of water or less,” says Drengenberg, so don’t think the water in your child’s baby pool is harmless.

Play it safe: “Dump the wading pool when you’re done with it,” Drengenberg says. “And turn it upside down so it doesn’t catch rain water.” In fact, empty all outdoor containers of water after use, including five-gallon buckets and insulated coolers; they’re a formidable drowning hazard. SP

activity R E S O U R C E S

Children’s Treehouse Buckingham

Safe Splash Swim School

972-530-8438 www.Treehouse4kids.net

214-930-4112 www.safesplash.com

Dinosaur World

SeaLife Aquarium

254-898-1526 www.dinosaurworld.com

www.visitsealife.com/grapevine

Lil Sluggers

972-495-0181 www.smallmiraclesacademy.org

It’s FUN art, not fine art! Weekend kids’ Classes during the sChool year lots of kids’ Classes during the summer

mommy Classes in the evenings year-round

3046 Lavon Drive, Ste 145 • Garland, Texas 75040

972.468.9370

paintingwithatwist.com/garland facebook.com/garland.pwat

Small Miracles Academy

972-509-5958 www.lilsluggersdallas.com

Soccertots

Painting With a Twist 972-468-9370 www.paintingwithateist.com/garland

Pecan Creek Day School

972-509-5958 www.soccertotsdallas.com

St. Monica Catholic School 214-351-5688 www.stmonicaschool.org

972-463-1661 www.pecancreekkids.com

R.I.S.E. (Rockwall Indoor Sports Expo)

UTD Chess Camp 972-883-4899 www.utdallas.edu/chess

972-772-9061 www.riserockwall.com

Upload your Birthday Kids picture at suburbanparent.com the Please submit by the 10th of their month prior to the month of print birthday to be included in our tos. edition. No copyrighted pho

LILLIAN

4 Years Old June 8

GARRETT

5 Years Old June 26

OLIVIA

2 Years Old June 22

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Back on the Chain Gang

o you want to know the difference between me supervising my children doing yard work and prison guards supervising convicts working the chain gang? Prison guards are armed. I, on the other hand, have only my Yelling Voice and what’s left of my sanity to protect me. It’s another summer and I have the opportunity to teach my children the value of an honest days work. And they, of course, have the opportunity to take me down to my knees. Each summer starts the same way. Roughly three days before school is out, I make a big speech about the family pulling together to keep the yard looking nice for the neighbors to enjoy. I say things like, “A family that weeds together, eats together.” And, “I don’t want to see anyone kicking the tops of the weeds off this year.” It may not shock some of you, but my children could care less if their mom and I, the neighbors, or anyone else “enjoys” our yard this summer. In fact, my son wanted to send a flyer around the block announcing that the Swarner’s were going “environmental” this year and would let nature take it’s course. He even drew a picture of our house with brown grass and weeds large enough to shade small woodland animals. Without their buy-in, I tend to play the role of grumpy foreman. My oldest son needs constant supervision. I’m forever sticking my head out the back door yelling: “Get back to work!” “I am,” he’ll argue. “You are?” I’ll reply. “I can see you sun tanning on the roof of the shed you know. It might be easier to pull the weeds if you were closer to the ground.”

My daughter is the opposite. She just cries. She also says I am unfair to make her weed. “My friends don’t have to pull weeds like me!” she’ll say. “That’s true,” I told her the other day. “That would be weird if I made your friends pull our weeds.” When she does get to work, our conversations go like this. Daughter: Dad, I’m done weeding my area. Me: (Inspecting) What about that weed? Daughter: What weed?! I don’t see any weeds. Where do you see a weed? Me: (Pointing) There - blocking the window. My youngest son is seven. I am lucky if I can keep him on task for five minutes. I’ll send him out to do a quick and easy weeding job and a half hour later he walks into the house with a gob of doggie doo-doo on a stick. “Look what I found, dad. I think this dog ate a dish towel.” I suppose I’d like my children to have had the experience of pulling together as a family for a common goal. I want them to know that being part of a group requires everyone to do their fair share. At least, that’s what I told my children yesterday when I found them in the backyard sitting in lawn chairs with a box of frozen treats and ten of the little neighborhood kids weeding our rose beds. Son: But dad, they want to do our work in exchange for Otter Pops. Yep, it’s going to be another fun summer of supervising the children. Whose kidding whom? I think I’ll hire a landscaper. <sigh> SP

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Father’s Day: Ten Things r Fo s id K r u Yo sk A ld u o Sh u Yo

guilt-free ard to kicking back, enjoying a few dimensionally. We tend to look forw comes to it n whe off daya ost Dads think of Father’s Day onebe less tie, and may television, a nice card or two, a need er’s Day is that Fath of idea hours watching The US Open on nal datio foun the But a that goes on around the house. things that mean someactive parenting, policing the dram We are dads so that we can do dad dad. the to ring cate not hip, mind, consider setting in of celebrating the relations that With ens that draw us closer to our kids. happ stuff n whe ns ratio celeb for father’s day. thing, and we have the best that will help solidify what to get ally putting some ideas out there actu and year this Day er’s Fath the agenda for Dad’s Day. s you should ask your kids for this Here are some suggestions, ten thing

1. Time

the math. You know If you’re a dad, you’ve already done head off and live the they till all it’s going to be no time at grab some memories to s take it t wha Do . rest of their lives before they grab the car keys.

2. Honesty

we don’t know. Make it It’s a fact that we can’t love what ts to know more than it wan clear to your kids that your love s, not the disapproval. heal that love the wants to judge. It’s

3. Advice (theirs)

ing for you? How about Father knows best? How’s that work ?” Trust them enough to asking for “Kids (might) know best loose-strings. You’ll be and s -end let them in to your open . know dy alrea they h muc surprised how

orite memory 4. A note of their favstori es and remembering

Get the kids writing and sharing golden, and good for both good “Dad moments.” These are dad and the kids.

5. Hugs:

ren are, hugging dad It doesn’t matter how old the child ctive on this one. Ask if proa Be . style of out should never go you have to, but get it done.

6. Big ideas:

with you. This is a little Ask the kids to share their vision re” stuff. Ask your kids pictu “big different from advice, it’s d hunger?” Ask them worl solve you ld wou “How things like, space travel, world as such what they think about big ideas . listen Then peace, and racism.

power 7. A gift with stayinga Fath er’s Day gift that

Ask your children to think about Ask them (for example) for won’t disappear in a day or two. for the next three months noon after ay Sund y one hour ever for the commitment to so you can pick their brain. Ask them k. Ask them to read wee a s time walk a mile with you three y day for a month. Ask for you their favorite comic strip ever leave their hands. they gifts that don’t end the moment

8. A fresh start

about coming clean with We all need a little redemption. How Maybe you’ve been ? start fresh a for g askin your kids and disrespectful… tly harsh… Maybe they’ve been consisten going on, try to is r teve Wha nd…. Maybe you’ve lost grou relationship goes. model humility and see where the

world 9. A glimpse into theI ir don’t get this!”

Prepare a list of ten “I’m too old, with your kid(s). questions and have a Q&A session of their own. Who list a with ond resp can Maybe they ng! icati knows, you may end up commun

10. A dinner date

one. But dinner out, oneYou may have to help pay for this most fun and the most the be can , child on-one with each productive parenting experience. and say: “For Father’s Huddle up with your kids tonight I want ___________ .” SP

Day,

rwhere dads in any stage of fathe Reprinted with permission. This is parenting. Fathers can their in aid to rces resou ul helpf hood can find of our All Pro Dads chapters. also sign up to start or attend one

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Summer Camp. IT’S IN OUR NATURE.

So, imagine you’re living at SeaWorld. You wake up to find sea lions doing laps in the pool. Your swimming instructors are dolphins. You party with the world’s most exotic birds and tropical fish. And your backyard is filled with incredible rides and slides. This summer, your child can have it all. That’s what being a camper here is all about.

facebook.com/SeaWorldBuschGardensCamps