Giggle Magazine-Gainesville. April/May 2015

alachua

county’s

PREMIER

p a re n t i n g

M AGA Z I N E

APRIL/MAY 2015 • Volume 7 • Issue 2

All About

Baby! pg. 37

Spring is Here!

Our guide to DIY terrariums pg. 29

meet 6 amazing local moms pg. 89

outdoor animal encounters pg. 84

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PUBLISHER Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Allison Raber MANAGING Editor Dana Kamp GRAPHIC DESIGNER Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Jen Bass, April Tisher executive assistant Sayeh Farah Contributing Writers Patricia Bishop, Saraii Cruz, Kelly Goede, Selena Garrison, Tara Griffin, Jen Hillan, Cresonia Hsieh, Dana Kamp, Lisa Katz, Savanna Kearney, Helen Kornblum, Colleen McTiernan, Danielle Michels, Olivia Pitkethly, Ale Russian, Brinn Strange, Chelsea Stromfeld, April Tisher, Rebecca Vitkus Contributing Photographers Shandon Smith with Lifeprints Photography, Patricia Bishop Photography, Terri Smith Photo, Verve Studio Interns Annaleigh Bonds, Amanda Ferguson, Cresonia Hsieh, Savanna Kearney, Danielle Marshall, Colleen McTiernan, Ale Russian, Chelsea Stromfeld, Rebecca Vitkus Mission Statement Giggle Magazine is a modern and refreshing parenting publication that brings together families and their community. We make it our mission to find the joy and humor in parenting, focus on key topics and issues that relate to today’s parents and give parents the resources to be engaged, connected and present with their children during these important years.

Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject any advertising. Irving Publications, LLC is not responsible for the validity of any claims made by its advertisers. Nothing that appears in Giggle Magazine may be reproduced in any way, without written permission. Opinions expressed by Giggle Magazine writers are their own and do not necessarily reflect the publisher’s opinion. Giggle Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions. Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

Mailing address

Physical address

5745 SW 75th Street 101 SW 140th Terrace Unit 286 Suite C Gainesville, FL 32608 Jonesville, FL 32669 p. 352.505.5821 f. 352.240.6499

gigglemag.com giggle@irvingpublications.com Giggle Magazine is a registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved.

Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. © 2015

gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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from the publisher

What I

As I walk into the kitchen from the garage, tired and arms full of bags, I am immediately bombarded with a plethora of voices, all yearning for my attention.

“Mom, look what we bought at Publix!”

“Mom, can you reset my iPod?”

am loving right now!

from handpicked e! su is this

JUJU BEQUICK IN "THE DUTCHESS" PRINT

“Mom, did you talk to my teachers?”

“Mom! Mom! Mom!” Counting to 10 … breathing in and out.

Then, I count my blessings. These three children have given me the most important role of my life … Mom. I am by far not a perfect mother. I have made mistakes. And make them daily. I live with the feeling of guilt that I work too long, don’t hug long enough and that I forgot to say “ I love you” as they whipped out of the car to school. I feel guilty that my house isn’t clean enough, laundry is overflowing, that we haven’t gone to Disney World yet and that now, two of them no longer want to share a room with the expensive Pottery Barn bunk beds I bought for their sleeping pleasure (Shane was right … they didn’t care).

They now want me to gut the bathroom and make a new room. Ahhh … the guilt sets in deeper.

JANE IREDALE HANDDRINK

Counting to 10 … breathing in and out.

I know you moms understand.

So, as we all swallow our guilty feelings, sometimes late at night, alone with cold dinner, a messy house and a pile of laundry staring out over the stack of school papers that came home, we are reminded that this is the role of a lifetime and that there is nowhere else we would rather be.

Happy Mother’s Day to all you amazing moms, grandmothers, great grandmothers out there! May your day be filled with love, laughter and ________________________ (fill in your own perfect wish).

TERRARIUMS

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

Cover Cutie!

meet our

Name: Beatrice "Trixie" Louise Birthday: January 27, 2015

Trixie

Favorites: Milk, being rocked by Grandma and her pink elephant blankie Dislikes: No milk, being swaddled, ageism and tummy time What makes her giggle: Tooting!

Newest milestone: Finally being out of preemie clothes!

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OUR NEW IRVING PUBLICATIONS LOGO

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follow us on Twitter @GIGGLEMAGAZINE

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Baby photo by Verve Studio. Terrarium photo by Patricia Bishop Photography. Lotion and bag photos by Giggle Magazine.

So, I reflect on the chaos, the madness I call my world, and at the end of the day … I am their mom.

Forever. My job is hard; it is to protect them, spoil them, honor them, defend them, challenge them and be there for them … forever. It is the role of a lifetime. (No, I am not gutting the bathroom. Sorry, kiddos.)

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April * May 2015 happy family • happy community

TM

life

learn

9 lifesavers

Safety First! Reviving Your Home First Aid Kit

78 Homeschool corner

11 the parent life

82 in the classroom

14 just the two of us

Renewing Your Vows to Refresh Your

84 family learning

Welcome to Parenthood!

Marriage

29

16 two cents

Preparing For Summer Vacation 20 happy family

The Khuddus Family 22 grandparents

20

Spreading the Grandparent Love

44 gIGGLE STAMP

Great Baby Shower Gifts!

forks & spoons 33 Lunch box

Sugar Overload! Low Sugar Options for

Safety Patrol: Responsibility, Privilege and Tradition

Amazing Animal Encounters

happy community 115 Extra, extra

Lauren's Kids: Educating Our Children on Personal Safety and Empowerment

119 calendar

conception 2✱ college™ 100 expecting

34 in the fridge

Italy's Hidden Treasure: Balsamic Vinegar

102 infant

54 get Healthy Family photo by Lifeprints Photography. Cake and terrarium photo by Patricia Bishop Photography.

Character Schooling

Their Lunch Box

health The Post-Baby Body Craze 56 get Pretty

Spots Be Gone!

60 get Moving

Local "Mommy & Me" Adventures

39

happy home

Exploring the Myths of Gender Prediction

Momtography 101: Professional Advice for Taking Pictures of Your Little One

105 TODDLER

Big Kid Time: Perfecting the Switch from Crib to Bed 106 early years

Childhood Moments: Becoming the Older Sibling 108 kids

Let the Style Wars Begin!

110 tweens

Sleepover Dilemma: When the Younger Sibling is the Third Wheel 113 teens

Teens and Dating: When are They Ready?

66 organized chaos

Queries from the Curious 72 make it. fix it. clean it.

Celebrate the Earth DIY-Style!

features 25 29 37 62 89

ALACHUA

COUNTY’S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

74 OUr space

Sydney's Baby Nursery

Summer Camp: Value Beyond the Entertainment Make Your Own Tabletop Terrarium It's All About Baby!

BWLC #5 Update In Honor of Her: Celebrating Local Moms

APRIL/MAY 2015 • Volume 7 • Issue 2

37

All About

Baby! pg. 37

29

Spring is Here!

OUR GUIDE TO DIY TERRARIUMS pg. 29

MEET 6 AMAZING LOCAL MOMS pg. 89

OUTDOOR ANIMAL ENCOUNTERS pg. 84

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Photo by Verve Studio gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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life

L I F E S AV E R S

Safety First!

Reviving Your Home First Aid Kit

In the case of an accident or illness, it’s important to feel assured you have the supplies needed to keep you and your family safe and healthy. While each family’s specific needs will differ, Mayo Clinic and American Red Cross recommend keeping these 10 must-have items in your home first aid kit.

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

First aid instruction manual

BANDAGES

Naturally, bandages are an essential in a first aid kit. From adhesive bandages to rolls of elastic wrap, you’ll want to have an assortment of bandages for any accidents, large and small, that may occur.

What good is a first aid kit if you’re not sure what to do with all your supplies? The American Red Cross recommends keeping an instruction booklet in your kit to help with any out-ofthe-ordinary situations.

DISPOSABLE LATEX GLOVES

When taking care of an injury, keeping the wound as sanitary as possible is important!

Make sure to wear gloves to prevent infection or the transmittance of blood borne disease.

Antibiotic and hydrocortisone ointments These two types of ointments are great for cleaning up cuts and treating those itchy bug bites and rashes kids always seem to have.

ASPIRIN (IBUPROFEN FOR CHILDREN)

Your family’s trusted pain relievers and fever reducers, whether over-the-counter brands or homeopathic alternatives, are great to have on hand when immediate aid is needed. The Mayo Clinic also advises keeping non-aspirin pain relievers in your kit, as aspirin can cause Reye’s syndrome, a serious and sometimes fatal condition, if given to children.

ANTISEPTIC WIPES

Before bandaging a cut, be sure to disinfect the area to prevent infection.

Having one of these ready-to-use wipes is a great timesaver.

SCISSORS AND TWEEZERS

Scissors and tweezers are both useful additions to your first aid kit. The scissors will come in handy for cutting gauze strips to size and tweezers are always good to have in case of splinters.

First aid is often needed while your family is on-thego. Consider adding these items to a second first aid kit that is kept in the car.

• Sunscreen © 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

When a job is too big for an adhesive bandage, use gauze to cover the wound.

INSTANT COLD PACKS

For all the bumps and bruises life throws your way, make sure you have instant cold packs on hand.

ACTIVATED CHARCOAL TABLETS

Activated charcoal can be used to help manage a poisoning.

However, according to the Mayo Clinic, you should always contact a poison control center before using the tablets.

MOBILE FIRST AID

Giggle Tip!

• Personal medications

Add a thermometer to your kit to keep track of fevers!

• Medications to treat an allergic attack, if prescribed by your doctor • Emergency phone numbers, including emergency road service providers

GAUZE PADS AND ROLLED GAUZE

Always check with your healthcare professional regarding any medical questions you may have. Call 911 in the case of a life-threatening emergency. gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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life

the p are n t life

Photo by Giggle Magazine.

A comforting blankie can help make a happy, content baby.

Pack an extra set of clothes because spills, spit-up and diaper explosions do happen.

Hand sanitizer is a must-have for on-the-go, must-toucheverything little ones!

Don't forget lip gloss for Mommy!

Welcome to Parenthood!

Prepare yourself with all you'll need for Baby while out and about, and throw a few things in for yourself ... this bag will go wherever you go for the next few years.

Bring along a treat and a spare pair for Big Brother!

BY DANA KAMP gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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life

j ust the two of us

Renewing Your Vows to Refresh Your Marriage

BY KELLY GOEDE

I do. Two words meant to seal your wedding vows for all eternity. When I said those words to my husband, I had no idea how those promises would play out. For better or worse has meant each of us showing our ugly side to the other, acting selfishly and having to mend emotional wounds we’ve inflicted.

Sickness and health has found us at hospital bedsides, once with Todd so sick he was there for two weeks, the doctors fearing he had SARS. No doubt our vows have been tested, refined in the fire of modern marriage, with the added complexities of parenting thrown in for good measure. In 12 ½ years we’ve had four children, bought two minivans and moved five times. In body and in spirit, we really are not the same people who stood at that altar years ago. And marriage statistics clue us in to the difficulty of the whole endeavor — half of all marriages end in divorce.

Half. As you press on in marriage, choosing to stay together and honor your vows deserves to be celebrated, whether formally or by quietly observing your commitment as a couple.

Joking aside, renewing vows can be meaningful but also a way to do things differently than your original wedding.

Miranda West, mom of two, said, “I think it would be a fun thing to do at a milestone. I think I would involve our kids and would want it to be a smaller

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For Laura Henry, the reasons for a vow renewal go even deeper.

“It is a second marriage for us both and we have been through so much in our six years — it’s been quite a journey.

Having failed at this once before, I’ve learned the value in continuing to choose your spouse — who they are now. I would want him to know I would choose him all over again,” Henry said.

Giggle Magazine account executive and writer April Tisher has said “I do” again to her husband, two times!

“We went to Vegas for our 5th anniversary and renewed our vows at the Little White Chapel, for fun,” Tisher shared.

Their 10th anniversary brought them to Trinity United Methodist Church, where they participated in a New Year’s Eve vow renewal. Not only did they decide

Have you said “I do” all over again with your spouse? Did it refresh your commitment and help grow you closer together? Share your experience with dana@irvingpublications.com.

to make it a five-year tradition, but found they liked the idea of having their children there with them. For their 15th, they plan to find a similar way to reaffirm their love and commitment to each other.

Remembering the promises you made to your spouse by renewing your vows is a noble act, and one that allows you to share your love and commitment with others, if you choose.

Pastor Rick Thompson has participated in a handful of vow renewals in his two decades of pastoral ministry.

“Even at vow renewals of those who have made it 50 years or more, I have learned there has been pain along the way. The renewal is meant to be redemptive, as well as a witness and call for support from family and friends,” Thompson explained.✽

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

I had grand visions of a ceremony and reception for a vow renewal for our 10th anniversary — sadly our washing machine broke and we forewent the party and opted for a new washer and dryer. Nothing says commitment like clean clothes.

service. I’m also curious if I could still fit in my dress.”

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life

two ce n ts

Preparing for Summer Vacation

BY SELENA GARRISON

Spring is in the air and the temperature is heating up! This can only mean one thing ... it’s time to start thinking about summer vacation! Whether you are dreaming of white sandy beaches, a trip to the mountains or even some fun day trips close to home, preparing now will help those memories-in-the-making to be fun and stress-free.

The last thing you want to be doing after your vacation is stressing over credit card bills. Swiping plastic can be all too easy when you’re having fun, so we have a few ideas to pay for your vacation without breaking the bank (or costing you hundreds in interest payments).

PLAN AHEAD First, you have to decide what you want to do and how much it is going to cost.

Think about: Travel Expenses – Will you be driving or flying? If you are driving, estimate your costs for gas, stopping for meals and snacks along the way, etc. If you are flying, start checking airfare now to get the best deals.

Lodging – Where will you be staying?

Oftentimes, we jump straight to looking for hotels, but sometimes vacation rentals can be a more cost-effective option. Check to see what is available in the area you will be going.

Fun – What do you plan on doing? Will you need to pay for parking, admission or special gear? Research those costs now so

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Extras – It seems like there is always something extra that comes up on vacation.

You may want to consider adding an extra 5 – 10 percent of your estimated costs to your vacation budget “just in case.”

Once you have planned (and paid) ahead, get ready for a fun time with your family! These times of making memories are so precious. Be silly, laugh and take lots of pictures! ✽

Pay Ahead After figuring out how much money you will need for your vacation, it is time to start putting away money to pay for it.

Some ideas for savings include: Vacation Account – Create a separate bank account for vacation and put aside money from each paycheck.

Money Jar – Have a special jar set aside where everyone puts their spare change, money found in the laundry, etc.

Yard Sale – Get the kids involved in some spring cleaning and sort clothes, toys, games, etc. Set up a yard sale and make some cash off those things that are just collecting dust.

Consignment Shop – Take sporting goods, tech equipment and vintage or antique pieces to specialty consignment shops to earn money for items your family is no longer using.

what is the average cost of a

vacation?

According to a survey on summer travel done by American Express in 2013, the average expense per person in the US is $1,145, with a vacation for a family of four ringing in at around $4,580. Planning ahead makes more sense now …

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Food – How much do you plan to spend on eating? Will you be eating out every meal? Will you be grocery shopping and preparing some of your meals yourself?

Food is sometimes a forgotten expense, but it really adds up!

you have an idea of how much money you will need. You may be able to find special deals by booking online or in advance.

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parent app!

GoodGuide

Meet your new personal, eco-conscious shopping assistant. The GoodGuide mobile app lets you quickly look up products and see the benefits in a quick and accessible way. With an easy-to-browse database of over 120,000 products, the app helps you make purchasing decisions that are not only healthier but also environmentally and socially responsible. The barcode scanning and personalization features will make sure you’re researching the right product and give you the answer you need when you need it!

What would you do if... someone made a negative comment about the name you’ve chosen for your child?

There isn't much you can do other than brush it off.

I think this is why many parents choose to wait until their child is born before announcing a name. I think people are less likely to give a negative response once it's a done deal, as opposed to something you're considering.

–Heather Miller, mom of 1 (and another on the way!)

I would simply say, "Everyone is entitled to an opinion, but if it’s not nice maybe you should consider not sharing it.”

–Kendra Hardee, mom of 1

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life

ha p p y family

Favorites sports to watch: We are a house divided. I am a Gator and Wajid is a Miami Hurricane. We enjoy watching college football and basketball. We also enjoy watching the Miami Heat and the Miami Dolphins.

Favorite vacation: Family cruises and skiing in Colorado and Utah.

What makes our kids laugh: Their dad – especially when he challenges them to the “Just Dance” game.

Why we love living in Gainesville: Gainesville has so much to offer. It has a small town feel with the amenities of a big city. We love all the outdoor activities such as visiting Lake Wauberg, Lake Alice and biking down the Hawthorne Trail. We enjoy going to the arts festivals, museums, and shows at the Hippodrome and Phillips Center. We are also very fortunate to have great schools and one of the nation’s top universities in our backyard. But most importantly, we love Gainesville because of all the caring and supportive people that have become our extended family.

The Khuddus Family { Wajid, Umbreen, Hibah (12), Hamza (10), Yusuf (8) and Isra (3 ½) } Occupation(s): Wajid is a hospitalist physician at the Malcolm Randall VA Hospital and Medical Director at Gainesville Health Care Center. Umbreen is an elementary school teacher but presently is a full-time mom.

Favorite date spot: We enjoy exploring the restaurant scene, but some of our favorites are Dragonfly, Embers, Leonardo’s 706 and Sabore.

The kids’ favorite books: Hibah loves a variety of books, her most recent favorites being “Divergent” and “The Giver.” Hamza

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Movie in our DVD player right now: “Big Hero 6.”

Mommy and Daddy’s favorite TV shows: “Shark Tank,” “True Detective,” and “House of Cards.”

Websites we love: Amazon, Pinterest, Grooveshark and ESPN. Favorite sports to play/extracurricular to do: Hibah enjoys karate, Hamza and Yusuf play soccer and basketball, and as of right now, Isra cheers for them. We all enjoy biking and going on nature walks.

Favorite day trip: St. Augustine Beach.

Favorite picnic spot: Cellon Oak Park.

Favorite family activity: Going out for ice cream!

First word you think of when we say “family”: Blessed.

Must-have item(s): Wajid needs his iPhone and Umbreen needs her hot cup of tea. Hibah cannot live without dessert and Hamza continuously needs to be updated by ESPN. Yusuf loves his Legos and Isra must have her pink blanket … and then of course, we must have faith, patience, love and respect.

Three words that describe our family: Spontaneous, Fun, Laid-back.

Photos by Lifeprints Photography

Favorite family meal(s): Sushi, pizza, tacos and homemade traditional meals … we are a food-loving family with a passion for international cuisine.

just finished reading “The Maze Runner” series and Yusuf is currently reading “Big Nate.” Isra loves looking through her many picture books, and being read to.

Something that we want our children to have that we didn’t have growing up: Both of us were blessed to have everything we needed growing up.

Living in Gainesville gives our children more opportunities to interact with people from all walks of life.

...most importantly, we love Gainesville because of all the caring and supportive people that have become our extended family.

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life

g ra n d p are n ts

Spreading the Grandparent Love

BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

park, play on the beach or explore a new country. Adelina Larena, grandmother of five, has taken her two eldest grandsons on trips since they were 4 years old. Now that they are 17 and 15, they have years of traveling experience. She hopes to continue this tradition with her other three grandchildren, all under age 5.

Weekend Getaway At The Grands’

If traveling with the grandchildren is not your preference, create a vacation at your house. Invite each child for a weekend and schedule his favorite activities. You can also extend it to a weeklong summer camp, giving them each lots of individual attention and more time to get to know you. Make their favorite meals, visit their favorite park, play their favorite games. Basically, make the visit all about them and make a great memory in the meantime. ✽

We’ve all heard the joke, “If I had known grandchildren were so much fun, I would have had them first.” Grandparenting is so pure. Pure joy, pure laughter, pure enjoyment. But it’s not without its challenges. One challenge is dividing your time and attention equally among your grandchildren. If this is something you, as a grandparent, are struggling with, try some of these fun ideas with your grandkids.

Seasonal Care Packages

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While you want to keep your grandchildren entertained with their activities, it’s equally important to engage them in your hobbies too. Kids need to know who their grandparents are as people. Part of being a parent or grandparent is helping them discover other areas of interest and broadening their horizons.

Wanda Curnow, grandmother of two, enjoys gardening and cooking. So when her grandchildren visit, she spends oneon-one time with each of them sharing her favorite interests. They help her make pancakes for breakfast or plant seeds in the garden. While she spends time with one grandchild, the other spends time with their grandfather. He enjoys the outdoors, so they will go for walks, play kickball or fly a kite together.

Choose Your Own Adventure

Pack your bags and take each grandchild on his own special vacation. Visit a theme

YOU’VE GOT MAIL

Children love receiving mail.

After a visit, my mother sends my two children their own thank you cards decorated with special stickers. My motherin-law purchased magazine subscriptions for the kids, so every month they receive something special in the mail from her. You could also start a monthly book club for your grandkids, sending each child a book picked out especially for him, with a note attached describing your choice.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Care packages are so fun to receive, and you can ensure each child gets an equal number of packages from Grandma and Grandpa throughout the year by sending them out every season with themed items inside. For example, a winter care package could contain packages of hot chocolate, fuzzy mittens or socks, and lip balm to prevent chapped lips.

A spring care package might include packets of seeds to plant, a jump rope and bubbles. Whenever they use their new goodies, they’ll remember how much you care.

Sharing Hobbies

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Summer Camp Value Beyond The Entertainment

BY DANIELLE MICHELS

With summer right around the corner, it’s time to start planning how you’re going to fill that long stretch of summer break.

There are only so many DIY projects we can do, and keeping a schedule can be a herculean task. That’s why this might be the year to think of something different, like summer camp.

We’re not suggesting summer camp as a way to get your kiddo out of your hair.

We’re suggesting it because camp can provide quite a few personal development benefits for your child.

life. By entering into a new group of kids who don’t go to his school or live in your immediate neighborhood, he’ll subconsciously learn to develop his social skills when finding new people to team up with for games or sit with at lunch.

Sever the Ties to Technology

It’s inevitable that our kids will have a tight grasp on technology at a young age because it’s just the nature of our society. Summer camps are a great way to ensure days (or weeks) filled with tons of engaging activities that have nothing to do with a screen.

Not only will summer camp help grow your child’s appreciation for the outdoors, but it will help him understand how to entertain without the crutch of a computer.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

Help Build Confidence

Strengthen Social Skills

Camp forces your child to be thrust into a new group of peers, which may be frightening for him at first, but as any adult knows, being able to relate to a diverse group of people is essential in

Although it’s hard to let go of your child for camp, especially if it’s sleep-away, having some distance from home will assist in developing his independence, and subsequently, his confidence.

When your child knows he can’t run to Mom and Dad when something isn’t going his way, or when he has to accomplish various tasks like cleaning and laundry on his own, he’ll become confident in his ability to tackle new tasks in the future.

Provide a Healthy Role Model

Camp counselors are typically still students themselves, and they usually have

Get Them Active

Even if your children do not need to increase their physical activity for weight loss, camp is a natural introduction to athletics in the form of group games, field days and other activities that make the kiddos break a sweat.

The earlier you introduce regular physical activity into their routine, the more engrained it will become in their interests and lifestyle.

And once your children are done with camp they'll most likely have found at least one activity they enjoy doing and would continue throughout the school year. to undergo a screening process ensuring they’ll be good leaders.

You would be surprised how much of an impression these counselors can have on your child, and in the best way possible.

They’re like the cooler older siblings that help encourage, push and guide your child in a way that makes them ideal role models. ✽ gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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Picture your child’s perfect, healthy smile!

We specialize in orthodontics for children, teens and adults utilizing state-of-the-art technology to create healthy, beautiful smiles that will last a lifetime.

FINANCING PLANS AVAILABLE WITH AFFORDABLE MONTHLY PAYMENTS; INCLUDING OPTIONS THAT REQUIRE NO MONEY DOWN.

Reid W. Montini DMD, MS, PA Dr. Reid W. Montini attended Florida State University for his undergraduate studies, received his dental degree from the Harvard School of Dental Medicine and completed his residency in orthodontics at the University of Florida. Dr. Montini is an active member of numerous professional organizations and is dedicated to staying current with the latest advances in orthodontic treatment and technology.

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At Cohen & Montini Orthodontics, our top priority is to provide the highest quality orthodontic care in a patient-friendly environment.

7520 W. University Ave., Suite C • Gainesville

352-332-7911 Call today to schedule your complimentary consultation

VISIT US

www.cohenandmontiniorthodontics.com

tabletop terrariums: a peek into the world of indoor landscaping

CREATIVE BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE | PHOTOS BY PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHY

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Bring the beauty of a blossoming garden into the comfort of your home with these creative terrariums. These tiny patches of plants are lowmaintenance, and they are sure to add a creative touch to any room in the house. Just check in every once in a while to see if your terrarium needs water, and make sure to air it out if it gets too damp. Use these charming decorations for an indoor touch of summer sunshine!

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WHAT YOU'LL NEED: CONTAINER: Do you want an open or closed terrarium? An open terrarium requires a slight misting every once in a while, while a closed terrarium will be self sufficient, as the water condensates and is recycled by the plants. Make sure the top isn't loose!

PLANTS: Choose plants of different heights and leaf shapes to make your terrarium visually interesting. We used a variety of succulents, but you can also use herbs, ivy or ferns. You can always remove a plant and replace it with something else if you find it isn't working.

PEBBLES ACTIVATED CHARCOAL POTTING SOIL REINDEER MOSS DECORATIONS BOTTLE MISTER SCISSORS TWEEZERS PAINTBRUSH

1 2

Place a layer of pebbles or rocks in the bottom of your container. Add enough for adequate drainage.

The next layer is activated charcoal, which can be found at your local fish store (it's used in fish tanks.) Place thin layer over the pebbles.

3

Soil goes in next, making sure to leave enough room for the roots of your plants. If you have a very shallow container, you may need to skip this step.

4

Time for plants! Make sure they don't touch the glass. If it won't hurt the plant, you can use your scissors to trim any stray leaves. For tiny terrariums, use a pair of tweezers to gently place plants in soil.

5

A moss layer goes in next; you can find it at your local craft store. You can pack it in around the sides. If you are using hardy succulents or cacti, you can fill in the top with pebbles.

6

Don't forget your decorations! Top your terrarium with fun dinosaurs or toadstools! Use your paintbrush to gently clean the leaves and flowers.

7

Keep your terrarium in sunlight, but keep an eye on it. The glass can magnify the effects of the sun and overheat the plants. You may need to reposition if they are getting too much sun. A closed terrarium should be self-sufficient and require no watering. For an open terrarium, a misting every couple of days should be enough. Keep an eye on your creation; if it seems too dry, you may need to mist it more often. As the plants grow, you may need to trim any leaves that grow out and over the top of your container. gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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forks & spoons

LUNCH BOX

Sugar Overload: Low-Sugar Options for Their Lunch Box

BY JEN HILLAN, MSH, RD, LD/N

When packing your child’s lunch, it’s often a challenge to find a balance between what’s healthy and what he will actually eat. Here are some kid-friendly ideas that will help him get the nutrients he needs without a lot of added sugars that he doesn’t need.

Offer at least one fruit and one vegetable since studies show kids usually don’t get enough of them. Offer whole fruits, rather than any kind of roll-up or gummy snack (which have a lot of added sugar but very little fruit). To make it interesting, cut fruits into fun shapes! Canned or dried fruits are good choices too, but check the ingredient lists for added sugars. Pair veggies with a healthy dip like hummus, nut butter or homemade ranch dressing (made with plain Greek yogurt and seasonings).

Tired of packing the usual PB & J? Try meat and cheese roll-ups, leftover veggie pizza, egg salad in a whole-wheat pita, peanut butter and raisins on graham crackers, or grilled chicken wrapped in a tortilla. Make your own “Lunchable” with deli meat, fresh mozzarella pearls, fruit slices, and whole-grain crackers or tortilla chips.

Get out the Thermos! It will keep cold food cold for up to seven hours and hot foods hot for up to five hours. Try making a smoothie with plain low-fat Greek yogurt, a frozen banana, ice cubes, water, nut butter, cinnamon and vanilla. Or fill the Thermos with soup, chili, or leftovers such as rice and beans or spaghetti.

Added Sugar vs Natural Sugar

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Natural sugars come in two forms – lactose (found in milk) and fructose (found in fruit). These foods give us important nutrients such as protein, fiber, vitamins and minerals. The fiber and protein found in some of these foods take longer to digest, which means you’ll feel fuller longer and have a less dramatic increase in blood sugar levels.

Added sugars come in many forms and have many names. They give us extra calories (1 teaspoon is about 15 calories) that we don’t need and no nutritional benefits. Whether the added sugar is high-fructose corn syrup, agave nectar or honey, too much can lead to weight gain and raised blood sugar levels.

Sodas, fruit juice, fruit drinks and even sports drinks can be high in added sugar. Offer low-fat milk or a milk alternative to give your child important nutrients without added sugars. For a healthier “sweet” drink, make a light chocolate milk with just a small amount of chocolate syrup or combine water with fruit slices.

As much as possible, let your child help with grocery shopping and in preparing his own lunch. He’ll be more likely to eat it if he had a hand in choosing it! ✽

The Nutrition Facts Label lists the total amount of sugar in a food, but it does not list how much is from added sugar and how much is from natural sugar. It’s important to read the ingredient list to find all sources of added sugar. For a complete list of added sugars, visit Choosemyplate.gov/weight-management-calories/ calories/added-sugars.html. gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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forks & spoons

i n the fri d g e

Italy’s Hidden Treasure: Balsamic Vinegar

by SAVANNA KEARNEY

In the last 30 years, balsamic vinegar has made its claim to fame in America’s food industry.

Although most people think of it as only a healthy substitute to fatty salad dressings, this syrup-like vinegar can provide any meal with a punch of flavor.

What is Balsamic Vinegar?

While most types of vinegar are made by fermenting alcohol, balsamic vinegar is created from the juice of pressed white grapes. The juice is boiled down to create a concentrate or “must,” which is then aged in wooden barrels for up to 100 years.

Create a balsamic vinegar reduction by simmering it in a pan for 10 minutes, add spices and lightly pour over meat or vegetables.



Add sugar to a balsamic vinegar reduction and use it as a sweet syrup over ice cream or strawberries.



Health Benefits of Balsamic Vinegar: 

Contains high-power antioxidants (the same ones found in grapes and red wine)



One tablespoon contains only 14 calories



Slows digestion and makes you feel fuller sooner



Stabilizes blood pressure and cholesterol levels





Enhances insulin sensitivity which aids in diabetes control Contains minerals such as magnesium and calcium which form strong bones

Unique Additions to Your Dish 



Sauté whole-wheat pasta in extra virgin olive oil with vegetables, then drizzle balsamic vinegar over it.

Add balsamic vinegar to soups, stews and sauces (pairs especially well with tomato-bases).

Adding 1/8 cup of balsamic vinegar and cucumber slices to a glass of flat or sparkling water makes for a refreshing post-workout drink. Replace regular balsamic with Cucumber Melon, Watermelon or Peach Balsamic Vinegar brands for a yummy twist!

Fun Fact!

Balsamic vinegar does not actually contain balsam (a fragrant substance that exudes from certain types of trees). The Italian word balsamico means “like balsam,” referencing the similarities between the two substances.

Vinegar Removes Vinegar If you happen to spill some balsamic vinegar on your clothes, don’t panic! It can easily be removed by mixing half a teaspoon of laundry detergent and a tablespoon of white vinegar with a quart of warm water. Rinse the affected area with cold water and put the solution on it for 15 minutes or so. Rinse off the solution and wash the fabric in hot water.

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“True” balsamic vinegar that has been aged from 12 to 100 years can cost up to $400 for a single bottle.

Thankfully there are cheaper brands that can be found in every grocery store. Ideally, the only ingredient in balsamic vinegar should be grape, although that’s unlikely. Many inexpensive brands contain low-quality vinegar sweetened with sugar and colored with syrup.

When buying balsamic, look for phrases such as “grape must,” “aged grape must,” or even “Mosto d’Uva.” These words indicate a higher quality brand.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.



Brushing balsamic vinegar over meat, poultry or fish, and cooking it in a pan with olive oil caramelizes the food for a sweeter flavor.

Add It to Water

Watch Out for Imposters

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All About Baby!

It's

Whether you're embarking on this journey for the first or tenth time, having a new baby is an incredibly amazing event. We are excited to share a glimpse into this wonderful adventure in our All About Baby feature. photo by verve studio gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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EXTRA, EXTRA! Our vintage press inspired baby shower tcombines a touch of the past with a modern twist. Celebrate with us as we welcome the new addition!

CREATIVE BY GIGGLE MAGAZINE | FLOWERS BY THE PLANT SHOPPE FLORIST | CAKE BY DREAM DAY CAKES PHOTOS BY PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHY gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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TASTY TREATS

Old fashioned candies and doughnuts make a sweet spread for guests!

{ EXTRA, EXTRA } Planning the Menu Depending on your number of expected guests, your shower menu can include a little or a lot!

Sandwiches are an easy and filling favorite.

Make them in advance and wrap them in newsprint tissue paper for a cute display, or set up a sandwich-making station!

A basketful of glazed doughnuts is a tempting treat, as well as being the perfect complement to a cup of coffee!

A fresh fruit bowl offers a yummy alternative for guests who prefer a healthier dessert, as well as adding a pop of color to your table.

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7

1. Newspaper-inspired invitations announce the mama-to-be!

2. Guests are greeted by old-fashioned decor, using vintage cameras and framed typewriter font.

3. A gender neutral cake topped with a handmade paper flower adds a sweet touch.

4. Classic children's tales make the perfect baby shower gift!

5. Rock candy does double duty as a sweetener and stirrer for coffee.

6. Shower guests sign in on the vintage typewriter.

7. Garlands are made using paper punches, bakers twine and an old book.

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5

3 4

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{ FUN FAVORS }

Make It a Gender Reveal!

Newsprint-wrapped flowers do double duty as decor and gifts for guests.

These sweet bags make great mementos for partygoers to fill with candy.

Try these sweet ideas to deliver the good news!

1. For a change from the traditional colored cake reveal, have each guest grab a cupcake and take a bite to discover the gender of your family's new addition.

2. For a more intimate reveal, ask the ultrasound technician to write the gender on a piece of paper and slip it in an envelope. Hand it to a parent, grandparent or other special guest and receive the news from a loved one.

3. If older kids are excited to find out the news, fill a pi単ata with pink or blue candies, and let the games begin!

4. Combine your gender reveal with your pregnancy announcement by inviting a photographer to join you and your spouse in an all-out pink or blue paint battle.

5. Make simple scratch off cards that reveal either a question mark or the new baby's gender.

The guest with the special card gets to make the announcement!

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life

Gi g g le stam p ™

BabyBjorn Baby Carrier Original Easy-to-use design and perfect for little ones 5-25 pounds! $55.97, Babybjorn.com.

Sticky Bellies Milestone Stickers Cute, reusable stickers used to mark milestones in a child’s life. $14, Stickybellies.com.

great

baby shower

Sometimes it's hard to decide on the perfect gift for the new baby, and the new mommy. Check out our ideas for presents that the expecting family will be sure to appreciate and enjoy.

gifts!

by chelseA stromfeld

The Ollie Swaddle Opening at the bottom makes it easy to change diapers with elasticity for movement. $48, TheOllieWorld.com.

Mocc Ons Moccasin-style slipper socks that keep toes warm. $17.99, Sockons.com.

Milkies Milk-Saver and Freeze Collects milk from non-nursing side while breastfeeding; organizes up to 60 ounces of milk. $27.95 – $29.95, Mymilkies.com.

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NeckerChew Combines dribble bib concept with chewy teether attached. $18.99 – $23.50, Cheekychompersus.com.

GooseWaddle Baby Blanket Incredibly soft and lush, allows for comfort and security. $65, Goosewaddle.com.

BabyBjorn carrier image courtesy of BabyBjorn. Cozy Sun and Bug Cover image courtesy of Hollywood Connections PR. Wubbanub image courtesy of Wubbanub. All other images by Giggle Magazine.

SoapSox Place soap into Soapsox mouth for a fun bath time; built-in finger pockets! $14.95, Soapsoxkids.com.

Goodnight Moon Baby Blue 5 Oval Teething Nursing Necklace BPA Free for teething babies and nursing moms; dishwasher safe. $13.95, Goodnightmoonbaby.etsy.com.

HALO SleepSack Wearable Blanket Wearable blanket that replaces loose blankets for safer sleep. $26.95, Halosleep.com.

Early Years Journal Early Years is a beautiful guided journal to inspire you to capture the precious first five years of your child’s life. $29.95, Fromyoutome.us.

WubbaNub Pacifiers Easy for babies little hands to grasp and manipulate the pacifiers by themselves. $12.95, Wubbanub.com.

Levana — Ovia PTZ Baby Video Monitor Includes Talk to Baby Intercom and SD Recording. $224.99, Mylevana.com, Amazon.com.

The Cozy Sun & Bug Cover Protect baby from elements while in car seat carrier; available in Cozy Combo Pack. $13.99, Cozy-cover.com.

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Birth Photography: Is by colleen mctiernan

it for you?

Book photo by Giggle Magazine. Baby photo by Lifeprints Photography.

We hire photographers to document so many of life’s milestones, but what about the birth of a child? For some, this is a private moment reserved for family only. But for others, this is an opportunity to preserve the miraculous moments of childbirth.

“Having photos of my daughter’s birth was priceless. It was an experience I will never forget, thanks to the photos that document the hard work and beauty of bringing my daughter into the world. Now my daughter enjoys looking at the photos too,” shared Amber Tucker, mom of two.

If you are considering hiring someone for this special event, Giggle Magazine photographer Shandon Smith of Lifeprints Photography recommends you review these key points during your planning.

Lauren Pace, mom of one, had newborn portraits done when her baby was 1 week old, but wishes they’d hired a birth photographer too.

Do you want her there during labor, capturing moments like your spouse supporting you through contractions, detail shots of the clock and heart monitor, your mom holding your hand?

What about during delivery and in the moments immediately following delivery when Mother and Baby first meet? Another option is to have the photographer arrive several hours after the baby is born, but within the first 24 hours of life. You may be a little more rested, the baby is clean, and you can coordinate the baby and the older siblings meeting for the first time.

“That day was filled with so many emotions – excitement, anxiety, nervousness and pure joy – it's hard to remember it all, and the pictures captured on our cell phones are mediocre. Having a professional there to capture those first moments would be priceless. If we have another child, it's certainly something I will look into,” Pace shared.

Our Favorite

Baby

Resources!

Amazon Mom, Babycenter.com and Giggle Magazine! ~April Tisher, account executive and writer Putapuredukes.com (for comic relief!) ~Kelly Goede, writer

photographer offers and how much they charge for their time.

• Don't

just research online.

Yes, it's very important to see examples of the photographer’s work, but you must feel a connection to the photographer. You will be exhausted and probably pretty hormonal (speaking from personal experience), and you want to feel comfortable with your photographer.

• How

much time do you want covered by the photographer?

• Find

“On Becoming Child Wise” by Gary Ezzo and Robert Bucknam, “How to Talk So Kids Will Listen and Listen So Kids Will Talk” by Adele Faber and Elaine Mazlish, and the “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” series ~Lisa Katz, writer “The Happiest Baby on the Block” by Harvey Karp and Babycenter.com ~Olivia Pitkethly, writer

We asked our Giggle team members, who are also parents, to share their favorite books, apps or websites for pregnancy and child-related information. Here are their go-to sources for Parenting 101.

• Review the different packages each

out if the photographer is "on call" in the event you

go to the hospital in the middle of the night.

Also, check if there are any extra charges based on travel or time of day, and always ask to read over the full contract.

Baby Connect app, several infant stimulation apps ~Krystal Radlinski, photographer/ owner of Verve Studio “201 Organic Baby Purees” by Tamika Gardner, Digitalprojectlife. com, Baby Nursing/Breastfeeding app by Sevenlogics, Inc., “Why a Son Needs a Mom: 100 Reasons” by Gregory E. Lang ~Jessica Kerr, account executive “Caring for Your Baby and Young Child,” “The Happiest Baby on the Block” and Mommyish.com ~Dana Kamp, managing editor “What to Expect When You’re Expecting” and every pamphlet in my OBGYN’s office ~Nicole Irving, publisher

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cotton ball, and drying it. If a plastic ring circumcision was performed, you can use the same cleaning method as above, without the petroleum jelly. It is normal if the penis looks red or puffy, has spots of blood or yellow crust at the tip, or has bruises where numbing medicine was used.

Cradle Cap

Umbilical cord stumps... yuck!

Icky Infant Ailments

Blocked Tear Ducts

BY SAVANNA KEARNEY

There are countless words we use to describe newborn babies: cute, precious, angelic, beautiful … I could go on forever. Yet there are other adjectives we’ve all thought of but never said aloud: gross, yucky, smelly. When your baby has a first aid need, it’s our job to take care of the problem, no matter how nauseating it may seem. We asked Dr. Jaclyn Otero, a pediatrician with UF Health Pediatrics, how to deal with some of the ickiness that comes along with those precious bundles of joy.

Umbilical Cord Care

Bowel Habits

An infant’s bowel movement frequency can be highly variable, ranging from once after

every feeding to every three to five days.

Any stool that is not rock hard or pure liquid is normal. Although newborns seem to strain when pooping, they are not constipated as long as their stool is soft. An infant’s stool will change from black and tar-like to yellow and seedy; it should not be white, black or red in color. Babies also tend to be very gassy during their first month.

Circumcision Care

There are multiple methods of care after circumcision surgery. If a clamp method was used, you can put large dollops of petroleum jelly on the tip of the penis for three to five days after surgery. Wrapping gauze around the jelly keeps the penis from sticking to the diaper. If the gauze sticks, lightly pour warm (not hot) water over it until the gauze comes loose. After two or three days, clean the penis by gently blotting it with a wet, soft cloth or

If you notice yellow fluid in the corner of your newborn’s eye, extra tearing even when he’s not crying, or mild crust of the eyelids or eyelashes, he may have nasolacrimal duct obstruction (blocked tear ducts). If your baby is diagnosed with this, you may need to massage his eye daily.

Gently press the tip of your (clean!) finger onto the inner corner of the eye, and gently stroke towards the nose. It may take a few months for the eye to heal.

Diaper Rash

Diaper rash is caused by urine, stool, bacteria, yeast, or just a diaper allergy irritating the skin. Diaper rash can also happen when your newborn sleeps for hours without waking. Take extra care to keep your infant as dry as possible with frequent diaper changes. Barrier creams, such as zinc paste, also help to keep the affected skin healthy, and need to be applied thickly so that you cannot see the skin underneath.

Seek pediatric care if the rash does not fade after two or three days of care. ✽

DIAPER RASH REMEDY! Looking for a new diaper rash cream? Hipoglos Ointment safeguards a baby's delicate skin with its unique formula of lanolin and zinc oxide, which form a protective layer against the causes of diaper rash. Available at select Walgreens stores and on Amazon.com; $4.99.

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*Please consult your physician for medical advice regarding your specific needs.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved. HIPOGLOS image courtesy of KMC PR.

The umbilical cord and area around the stump should be kept dry and clean. You can clean it by patting it with plain water (do not submerge it), and dry it by placing a cloth around the stump. Folding down the front part of the diaper can help dry out the base of the cord by keeping urine away from it. It is OK if the umbilical stump emits a foul odor before falling off. The entire process of falling off and healing should take two to three weeks.

The umbilical area may be infected if it is red, swollen, painful or emitting discharge.

Once the skin has healed over the navel, you may wash your baby in a bathtub or sink, but before then he should only receive sponge baths.

Cradle cap (also called seborrheic dermatitis) occurs on parts of a baby’s skin where there are more oil or sebaceous glands. Sometimes it only affects a newborn’s scalp, although it can happen in neck creases, armpits, groin or behind the ears. Cradle cap turns skin pink or red and causes greasy, flaky scales. Otero recommends mixing a small dollop of olive oil with a large amount of baking soda and gently massaging it onto the affected area.

Avoid forcibly removing the flakes, as this may lead to hair loss.

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OUR FAVORITE

baby bags!

Gone are the days of powder pink totes and Mickey Mouse designs! Check out a few of our favorite diaper bags that come with an equal amount of style and practicality.

BY REBECCA VITKUS & CHELSEA STROMFELD

Ju-Ju-Be B.F.F. PVC free and machine washable. Perfect for carrying all of those mommy things in an ultra organized way! $165, Ju-ju-be.com.

BabyHome Trendy Diaper Bag Adjusts to different positions to be used as a handbag, sling bag or shoulder bag for traveling ease. $49, Pishposhbaby.com.

Angela & Roi Sunday Tote ll - Beige Sophisticated design made from vegan leather. For every handbag you purchase, Angela & Roi donates by color to support a charitable cause. $150, angelaroi.com.

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Ju-Ju-Be Be Quick PVC free and machine washable. Use it to organize the inside of your favorite bag, carry it alone as a purse, or use it as the only diaper pouch with Teflon and no noisy Velcro! $18, Ju-ju-be.com.

Angela & Roi photo courtesy of Angela & Roi. JJ Cole photo courtesy of Hollywood Connections PR. Carters photo courtesy of Carters.com. All other photos by Giggle Magazine.

Ju-Ju-Be Be Right Back PVC free and machine washable. Everything a traditional, full-featured backpack has with the details and form of a fashion bag. The ultimate hybrid! $140, Ju-ju-be.com.

Boppy Bag Collection: Boppy Golden Diaper Bag Includes a coordinating pacifier pod, personal bag and the Boppy Plus! $70, Boppy.com. Coordinating bottle bags and changing pad clutches sold separately.

Petunia Pickle Bottom Downtown Tote The versatile, modern bag includes changing pad and PPB-monogrammed wipes case. $139, Petunia.com.

Matching Accessories Available!

Ju-Ju-Be HoboBe PVC free and machine washable. Purse and diaper bag! Packs up great for the baby or take out changing pad for a full-fledged purse! $100, Ju-ju-be.com.

Carter’s Carry-It-All Diaper Bag Includes changing pad and dirty duds pouch, easily wipes clean. $49, Carters.com.

Kalencom Midi Coated Buckle Diaper Bag Eco-friendly, AZO, phthalates/DEHP, DBP and BOP free. Fun prints and a roomy interior with two elastic bottle loops. $60, Kalencom.com.

JJ Cole System 180 Includes insulated bottle, mp3 player pockets and a wallet organizer under magnetic front flap. $69.95, Pishposhbaby.com.

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THE MILLER FAMILY

THE WALTERS FAMILY

HOW DID YOU

ANNOUNCE THAT YOU WERE

EXPECTING? THE AUSTIN FAMILY

Our Giggle Readers Share!

Photos courtesy of individual families.

THE LOEHR FAMILY

THE CUFFARI FAMILY

THE LAMPP FAMILY

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health

g et healthy

The Post-Baby Body Craze

BY SARAII CRUZ

Daissy Santiago used to be petite and thin, weighing in at 110 pounds. Then she had two children.

“I was so skinny that during my first pregnancy, my legs and arms were itchy because I was getting bigger and heavier than ever before,” Santiago said. “When I had my babies, I felt the urge to start working out immediately, because you feel huge and strange.

But then you realize you have to care for this new baby and there is no time, with a husband, chores and everything else.”

Santiago is one of millions of moms who are reclaiming their bodies after having children. More and more new moms are obsessed with losing their baby weight as quickly as possible after birth, a possible result of the media’s obsession with celebrity moms’ post-baby bodies.

“Those magazine headlines are selling this idea that if you don’t lose the baby weight weeks after birth, you’re weird,” said Santiago. “For me it took 18 months to lose the weight I gained with my daughter.

Compare that to the weeks it took Kate Middleton.”

through, like depression, breastfeeding and unpaid maternity leave. Addressing these issues will allow women to more easily transition into motherhood.

“Sadly, even though so many women out there are silently suffering and working so hard to make things work, we do not talk about it,” she said. “In my opinion, this is a crisis that needs addressing.”

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© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Nurse practitioner Mayrelis Pupo explained that new moms shouldn’t be overly concerned about getting back in shape so Santiago said seeing the “post-baby body” headlines everywhere soon after giving birth. She emphasized that women should added a subconscious pressure to shed her baby weight and go focus on adjusting to their new baby, dedicating time later to back to the 110-pound girl she used to be. Headlines like “Blake focus on weight loss.

Lively Flaunts Slim Post-Baby Body Two Months After Giving Birth!” make the weight loss seem “A woman’s body is like elastic. easy, but it’s not. Santiago must It is meant to expand and change care for two children and find Spencer suggested that the media should drop in order to carry a child,” Pupo time to exercise, which prolongs the post-baby narrative and talk about the real said. “Just like elastic, it is the process. postpartum issues women go through, like meant to go back to normal on depression, breastfeeding and unpaid maternity its own. You just have to have The mom-of-two tries to fit in leave. Addressing these issues will allow women patience.” at least 30 minutes of exercise to more easily transition into motherhood. during her hectic days. She puts Pupo explained that weight gain her jogging stroller to good is necessary for every expectant use, does “mommy-and-me” mother.

She suggested excess baby weight can be lost over time exercises and watches what she eats, knowing that slowly but by healthy eating habits, regular exercise, sufficient rest and surely she will reach a satisfying weight. breastfeeding. A conversation with your doctor about a specific regime catered to you is best, she said.

Kate Spencer, current editor-in-chief of Mommyish.com and former writer and producer for VH1, said that the media’s Although pregnancy changed her body forever, Santiago doesn’t obsession with “post-baby bodies” can be harmful to women’s regret being pregnant and giving life to her children. She just self-esteem, misinforming them and skewing expectations. decided to not become obsessed with weight loss.

Spencer, who had a baby in early 2013, felt pressure to lose “I once read that, ‘It takes nine months to grow a life, so don’t expect her baby weight, especially since her job forced her to cover your body to go back to normal in a week or a month.’ I hope other Hollywood events like Red Carpets on camera. moms know that too and don’t feel pressured or like an anomaly for not losing baby weight in a month,” Santiago said. “Enjoy your kids, Spencer suggested that the media should drop the post-baby cut yourself some slack and go at your own pace.” ✽ narrative and talk about the real postpartum issues women go

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health

g et p retty

Spots Be Gone!

 Suki® Even-Tone Brightening Serum Helps to even spots, redness, discolorations, hyperpigmentation, circles, scars and uneven skin tone, creating the overall appearance of radiance without the toxic side effects of synthetics. $50.95; Sukiskincare.com.

Sun exposure, pregnancy, acne and age can cause a host of discolorations and unevenness on your skin. Try one of these spot-reducing products for clearer, more even skin.

 Avalon® Age-Less Illuminating Serum ¬ Featuring a multivitamin complex (Vitamin A, B, C, D, E and K) plus powerful antioxidants and quenching moisture, this concentrated, dual-action solution works to brighten skin from the inside out, without parabens, petrolatum or artificial colors. $19.99; Walmart and Avalonpersonalcare.com.

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN



 Meaningful Beauty® by Cindy Crawford Skin Brightening Décolleté and Neck Treatment Broad Spectrum SPF 15 ¬ This cream firms and revitalizes the neck and décolleté. The formula includes a brightening complex to diminish the appearance of age spots and SPF 15 to protect from future damage. $39.95 as part of set; MeaningfulBeauty.com.





 Proactiv+ Advanced Dark Spot Correcting Serum ¬



Treat unsightly dark spots caused by former acne blemishes with this lightweight, fast-absorbing, gel-like serum. Formulated with sea buckthorn and hydroquinone, the product works to visibly improve uneven pigmentation. $50/$34.95 for regular shipment members; DiscoverProactiv.com.

 StriVectin Radiance Refining Moisturizer ¬ This daily radiance-enhancing moisturizer is clinically proven to improve skin’s clarity and diminish discolorations while hydrating for softer, smoother skin and an overall brighter and healthier-looking complexion. $89; StriVectin.com.

  

 Peter Thomas Roth De-Spot™ Plus ¬ This lightening treatment effectively reduces the intensity and size of age spots, sunspots, freckles, acne scars and melasma – with visible results in one week and maximum results in 3 months. $78; Sephora.com and QVC.com.  SkinCeuticals Advanced Pigment Corrector This product clears and brightens skin by exfoliating existing spots, inhibiting melanin transfer, blocking excess melanin production and preventing the formation of new spots. $90; SkinCeuticals.com.

 jane iredale HandDrink Hand Cream ¬ This formula combines sun protection with added skin care benefit, keeping hands healthy and hydrated.

Botanical extracts brighten and even skin tone while broad spectrum UV protection prevents future damage. $29; Janeiredale.com.



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 Erno Laszlo White Marble Treatment Cleansing Bar ¬ Inspired by the luminous and unblemished perfection of pure white marble, this cleansing bar treats uneven skin tone and hyperpigmentation. $45; Radiance Emulsion (serum) also available. Each sold separately. ErnoLaszlo.com.

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g et movi n g

Local "Mommy & Me" Adventures

by COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

Looking for some fun bonding time with your little one? Consider some of these “Mommy and Me” style classes offered in Alachua County. Whether you’re looking for a weekly class to join, or something that you can pop into whenever you and your child are free, there’s something for your family. Daddies and grandparents, you’re more than welcome to join too!

Parent-Child Classes That Require Pre-Registration: Balance 180 Parent/Child Classes

At Balance 180, you’ll help your child as he learns about different gymnastics events and skills, and participate in fun activities together. Classes are offered for children 18 months to 3 years, once a week.

Parent-Tot Swim Lessons at the North Central Florida YMCA

Introduce your child to the water at Parent-Tot swim lessons. Each session meets three times a week for three weeks and is designed for kids 6 months to 3 years old.

Tonewood Family Music’s Music Together classes

Tonewood offers 10-week programs for fall, winter and spring as well as a 6-week program in the summer for you and your kiddo to explore the world of music together. Classes are divided into separate age categories with one for newborns to children 5 years old and another for 5- to 7- year-olds.

On the first Friday and last Tuesday of the month, the Harn offers interactive activities for you and your child to enjoy together after touring the museum. Just be sure to register in advance to secure your spot.

Tumblemania’s Mom & Tots Class

Get active! At Tumblemania, you and your child will participate in different interactive activities as well as learn beginning tumbling and trampoline skills.

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Stay and Play at Sun Country Sports Center (West)

Head on over to Sun Country Sports Center on Tuesdays and Fridays from 9 – 11 a.m. for fun activities such as swimming, dancing and gymnastics that you and your child are sure to enjoy!

Morning Magic at O2B Kids!

Bring your kids to Morning Magic to watch a theatrical stage production and then participate in one of several classes including art, music and gymnastics.

Classes meet Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday at 10:15 a.m.

Baby Time and Music and Movement at the Alachua County Libraries

Baby Time is a great way for you to interact with your child and socialize with other mommies. It is offered for newborns to children 3 years old at all library locations on Fridays from 10:30 – 10:50 a.m., followed by Music and Movement from 11 – Noon.

These classes are offered after 5 p.m. or on the weekends: • Morning Magic at O2B Kids!

• Parent-Tot Swim Lessons at the North Central Florida YMCA • Tonewood Family Music’s Music Together Classes

Coming Soon!

GiGi’s Playhouse Down Syndrome Achievement Centers GiGi’s Playhouse offers free educational and therapeutic programs for children with Down syndrome. They have a range of programs that the whole family can get involved in, such as Daddy & Me classes, Family Night and Early Learners classes. Check out the Gainesville site for specific offerings.

Gigisplayhouse.org/gainesville

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Tot Times at the Harn Museum

Drop-in Parent-Child Classes :

Perfect for Working Mommies!

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Update!

The hardworking ladies of BWLC#5 are halfway there!

Change is difficult, but our six BWLC #5 moms have risen to the challenge and have proved their dedication, strength and commitment to living a healthy lifestyle. Read up on what they have to say about their journeys so far!

Q.

BY CHELSEA STROMFELD

What has been the most challenging part of the BWLC? What has been the easiest part?

Debi: The most challenging part is not stressing out over weekly weight loss results. Something I thought would be difficult but has been quite easy was the detox period. In reality, detoxing from sugar and processed food took very little time.

Hollie: So far the exercise has been the most challenging for me. I thought that because I am fairly active, it wouldn't be quite as difficult. I was REALLY wrong. I am challenged at every workout! Dan and Paggie are great at knowing what our limits are and pushing us to get the most out of our workouts. I am definitely pushing myself outside of my comfort zone in regard to exercise.

Tia: When preparing for the BWLC to begin, I had a lot of anxiety about food. I loved eating pasta, chocolate, ice cream, cookies, etc., and I always ate in large quantities! I knew this way of eating would have to change, but I wasn't sure I was ready to give it up! For the last five years my activity level has steadily decreased. I used to be extremely active in mountain

The ladies at the Run for Haven 5K

biking, rollerblading and swimming, so even though I became very sedentary, I thought the workouts would be easy. I was so wrong! I had it all backward. With the loving help of my husband, changing how I eat and think about food was so easy and it seemed to just happen overnight, and never again will we go back to eating the way we used to! But each day we work out is a struggle and each workout feels like it could kill me. Then I complete the workout and feel amazing, and I know I’m one workout closer to living a healthy life again!

Stephanie: The most challenging part of the BWLC has been finding the time to cook (and eat) at home in the evenings, as well as time to exercise when I'm not at Sweat Life. The time to cook nutritious meals is a luxury because we have two boys who are involved in activities outside of school hours. I am active with two schools as a PTA volunteer as well, which requires extra time. I'm making finding time for ME a priority for both cooking and exercising! The easiest part of the challenge has been finding resources online to help with new recipes, and crockpot ideas to help with the nutritional meals. I'm becoming very creative in the kitchen!

Q.

Have you ever thought about giving up during this challenge? How did you deal with those emotions and move past them to keep yourself going?

Christina: No, I have not even considered giving up! I was discouraged when the scale didn't move for seven days, but that only made me more determined.

Stephanie: I have not considered giving this up even once. I NEED to do this for my family, my health and myself. I look at it as literally the challenge it is, and I know I have to do this.

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Photos by BWLC Team.

Hollie: I haven't ever wanted to quit the challenge, but I have had a few setbacks. I was very upset with myself when I was unable to complete the step mill circuit during one of our workouts without taking a break. I was beating myself up about it, but then Dan reminded me that even though I had to take a small break I jumped back on and finished the exercise. I have also been somewhat discouraged at how slowly the scale has been moving, but then I remind myself that while the scale might not show it, I feel much better!

THANK YOU TO THIS YEAR'S SPONSORS!

Sweating through a Saturday morning workout!

Nicole: Only once did the thought of quitting cross my mind. In a short time span, part of my house flooded, all four kids were making me crazy, my work schedule changed, my childcare arrangements for a BWLC workout fell apart, and some stressful situations were occurring with extended family. I briefly considered throwing in the towel and hiding in the pantry with some chocolate and a glass of wine! This is where the support of Dan, Paggie and Chris at Sweat Life, the other BWLC ladies, and a bit of my training in cognitive behavioral therapy came in. I had to remind myself that putting more on my actual plate wasn’t going to reduce anything on my life plate. It may be a struggle to get to a workout, but the feeling of accomplishment afterward helps offset whatever stressors the day has for me.

Q.

How have your personal lifestyle changes as well as changes in the house (different foods, workout schedule) affected you and your family?

Christina: We have not gone out to dinner in several weeks. Not a bad thing, but the kids are missing their French fries. We have tried several new recipes and new veggies. The kids actually like roasted Brussels sprouts; they say they are close to potatoes. My husband has been very supportive and is going along with all of our new eating habits. The workouts

don't affect my family because I work out while they are at school and work. I do have to spend a lot more time with meal/grocery planning. I generally plan dinners four days at a time and have to go to the grocery store about every three days to replenish produce.

My kids love fresh fruit!

Stephanie:The most glorious thing was my 10-year-old going to the refrigerator the other day for a snack after school, and pulling out celery sticks! I have never seen him make those wise nutritional choices, and it makes me so proud that my influence on the family and our healthy eating has brought about these changes in my children as well.

lifeprints P H O T O G R A P H Y

Gainesville Dermatology Aesthetic Center

Nicole:It’s great to see a change not just in myself, but in my husband and kids as well.

They’ve been exposed to a greater variety of vegetables and new recipes. My husband, Andrew, has already lost a few pounds. My oldest son is a budding chef and has seen the changes as a culinary adventure. The younger three aren’t always as adventurous, but have tried some new things. They enjoy helping me make homemade snacks for their lunch boxes so we aren’t so reliant on processed foods.

They love the three-ingredient granola bars and grain-free pumpkin muffins. The BWLC process has been a great springboard in our house for conversations about making healthy choices, taking care of your body and making exercise a priority.

One important step that can help you with your health goals is to drink plenty of water. A good rule of thumb is to drink half of your body weight, in ounces. For example, a person weighing 140 lbs should drink 70 ounces of water per day. Add some fresh fruit for flavor!

If you would like to become a sponsor, please contact Nicole at nicole@irvingpublications.com. gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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ORGANIZED CHAOS

To make the next size up easily accessible, hang these items in the closet, separated from the current wardrobe by clothing dividers.

Dividers are useful for organizing the current clothing, too. You can buy blank dividers and write on them or buy specialty labels.

Check online and in children’s specialty 12 months shops for various options. Consider 6 months 18 months installing tension rods to add more levels for hanging storage in the closet or armoire.

Put the remaining clothing into clear plastic bins with large labels on the front and side, not on the top, so you can still identify the contents when the bins are stacked. Use vacuum storage bags for larger sizes or when storage space is limited. Slide plastic containers under a bed or where you have the best storage space.

Babies and toddlers grow quickly, but once you have a system in place, you’ll be able to keep up with their expanding wardrobes.

len...

Dear He

Queries from the Curious BY helen kornblum

Q. I have a closet overflowing with baby and toddler clothing. How can I create easy-access storage for a wide range of sizes?

Now you’re ready to sort by size, which requires close attention because infant and toddler clothing is not standardized. One brand labeled 3-6 might be another’s 6-9. Once you get past the sizing, sort by type or seasons. Separate specialty clothing such as swimwear, holiday outfits or costumes.

A. To reclaim those lost kitchen countertops, create a deliberate routine for dealing with mail. Pick one spot for incoming mail and use an inbox or basket that fits the amount of mail you typically receive.

Now commit yourself to a schedule for processing mail, which might range from daily to once a week. Use a paper bag to recycle junk mail immediately. Your remaining choices boil down to filing, taking immediate action, or putting the paper into an action folder and making a note on your calendar or To Do list.

To avoid late charges, you may want to pay bills on the day you process the mail.

Have you thought about reducing the amount of mail you receive in the first place? The Direct Marketing Association has a tailored program (dmachoice.org) that allows you to stop unwanted mail. Remember that companies rent mailing lists, so every purchase you make by phone or online increases mail from companies with which you haven’t even done business.

Stop unwanted credit card solicitations for five years by calling 1-888-5OPT-OUT. If you’re getting too much mail that no longer applies to your life, identify the flyers, magazines and catalogs that need to go. Make a new habit to be more discriminating!✽

 Helen Kornblum is a life coach and organizer. Find her at CoachandOrganizer.com. Her specialty is coaching teens and young adults who have ADHD or ADD.

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© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

A. Empty the closet to purge items in poor condition and set aside clothing that you want to donate to friends or agencies in the community.

Q, What’s the best way to process our endless stacks of mail?

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Celebrate the Earth DIY-Style!

BY BRINN STRANGE

Get inspired by these Earth-friendly ways to recycle the old into something new and functional. Children of all ages will enjoy expressing their creativity with our kid-approved crafts!

Pallet Shelf Perfection

Take an old pallet board (ask a local hardware store if they have any extra), and sand the sides. Next, add a coat of primer to seal the wood, which will also create a beautiful worn look.

After hanging on the wall in your kitchen or living room, place small potted plants or mason jars of herbs on the new shelving.

From Trash to Treasure

Giggle Tip : Try using two different sized Pringles canisters. Once finished, place flowers in each one and set on a tray to bring Mom breakfast in bed this Mother’s Day! 72

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Š 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

After the last chip has been chomped, save your empty Pringles canister to make the perfect decorative vase. Simply rinse the container, and either cover it with brown wrapping paper or spray paint it with your favorite color. Next, place a mixture of sand and shells on a cookie tray. Finally, after covering the canister in Mod Podge, roll it in the sand mixture until fully covered. You may also want to individually place some of the bigger shells more strategically around the base.

M A K E I T. F I X I T. C L E A N I T.

K-Cup Creations

Next time you fill up your morning cup of Joe, keep your K-Cup to use as a seed starter. First, tear off the top of the K-Cup and clean out the grounds from inside. K-Cups already have mesh inside and a hole in the bottom, making them perfect for draining water. Set them in a leftover plastic container (you can use the lid to create a greenhouse effect). Place some small stones under the cups for even better drainage. Fill each K-Cup with some soil, a few seeds and some more soil. Lightly water and set your container in a sunny window. Mist the soil a few times a day with a spray bottle. Watch your seeds grow!

Giggle Tip : Sprinkle the old coffee grounds in your garden. This helps increase the quality of your soil.

Read All About It:

This project is perfect for your little bibliophile! Use an old hardcover book — perhaps one collecting dust on your shelf or from a local used bookstore — and cut out the center pages. Place your plant directly into the book to create a piece of cute and earth-conscious décor! ✽ gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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O U R S PA C E

Sydney's Nursery

When Morgan and Brian Lampp started to design the nursery for their baby girl, they tossed around several different ideas and color schemes, but found that they kept coming back to a room that was both playful and colorful. Their goal was to design a space that was functional in terms of storage and also a fun space that Sydney could grow into as she grew older.

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The bright stripes on the throw pillow coordinate with the colorful striped lamp shade and chevron carpet.

"One of my favorite parts of her nursery is the bookshelf because we included several of my favorite books from when I was little," says Morgan.

Âť The Lampps own a design

Photos by Giggle Magazine.

business and created all of the fun artwork for Sydney's walls! You can see more of their adorable work at Hypolita.com.

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Character-Schooling

BY TARA GRIFFIN

We resurrected the RESPECT board at our house this week. It started a few weeks ago. I began noticing tweenish backtalk creeping into our daily routine.

At first I ignored the sassy, short answers and sarcasm. But left unchecked, it started to grow, and before I knew it I had an 8-year-old mess, with enough sass to push all my buttons and enough emotional energy to be going strong for a two-hour tantrum.

Mothering difficult behavior is rough.

Teaching in that environment is impossible.

In a traditional school, a child might get detention or internal suspension. In our school, bad behavior earns some quality family time and character-schooling: reminders of manners, values and backto-basics life-schooling. I know the best way to raise good kids is to model good character. But sometimes they need some reminders. My end goal is to raise good citizens of the world. Here’s what I’m doing to support the mission.

TALKING ABOUT IT

I compiled a list of 25 manners from various sources. I keep it in my bag, and read it aloud (with discussion and examples) on the porch on a sunny day, or on a fun road trip. This week I had the kids copy the list for handwriting practice, and it was a win-win (schoolwork and character reminders, yay!). There are the traditional “please and thank yous,” and a few highlights like “The world is not interested in what you dislike” and “Even if an event is boring, sit quietly and pretend to be interested.

The performers are doing their best.”

There are many sources of good manners on the Internet, and I encourage you to pick some favorites for your family.

READ, READ, READ

My children respond to books. Reading aloud as a family has always been a favorite activity. They love stories where they can relate to the characters and I love when we can tie it back to an important value or lesson. I find there are always ways to bring up personal character development, even in the simplest of storylines, and my ultimate goal is to keep them mindful of their actions as they relate to others.

In the one week since I’ve revisited “character-schooling” I have seen a major change in behavior. It’s a long process to raise kids up to become good adults and every stage is different. This is working now, but it’s a work in progress.

I’m loving each stage of parenting, and hopefully you are too! Happy schooling!

Book Suggestions: “Win or Lose by How You Choose”

by Judge Judy Sheindlin “What Do You Stand For: For Kids”

by Barbara A. Lewis

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My kids were introduced to the RESPECT board in their kindergarten classrooms, and I reproduce it at home when I find that they are forgetting their manners. It is an excellent visual clue, and I like having the word “Respect” big and bold in my living room as a reminder anyway. Each morning, the kids’ clothespins begin on the “P” and can move up or down depending on their kindness, attitude, gratitude and cooperation. In our house, if you make it down to “C” you do Chores, and if you get up to “R” you get a Reward. It’s easy, free and really works.

“The Family Virtues Guide”

by Linda Kavelin Popov

“What if Everybody Did That?”

by Ellen Javernick

“The Energy Bus for Kids”

by Jon Gordon

“If You Had to Choose, What Would You Do?” by Sandra McLeod Humphrey

“Have You Filled a Bucket Today?”

by Carol McCloud “10-Minute Life Lessons for Kids” by Jamie C. Miller

Photo and chart provided by Tara Griffin.

While there are many important family values, I am currently emphasizing responsibility, empathy, courage, leadership, respect, self-reliance, love of learning, industriousness and integrity. I ask myself, “Do MY actions support these values?” I talk to the kids about ways to grow in these areas. We discuss these big topics all the time, often at family dinners.

We have the kids think of examples and as grown-ups, we think of personal experiences that relate to the value. In your own family, encourage your children to ask big questions, and answer them honestly.

25 MANNERS

The Respect Board

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i n the classroom

Safety Patrols: Responsibility, Privilege and Tradition

BY APRIL TISHER

You can recognize them by their iconic, bright fluorescent cross-body belts. It may bring back memories of your own school days when you see them around your child’s school assisting with car drop-off and pick-up, opening doors for students, monitoring the morning fitness track and raising the American flag.

My 10-year-old son, Andrew, feels like the best part about being a safety patrol is being out at his post at Morning Mile.

There he is responsible for recording how many miles the students run each day. Since the first day of kindergarten he looked forward to the day when he would be in fifth grade and could serve his school as a patrol.

Janani Kumaran, a fellow patrol, shared, “My favorite thing about being a safety patrol is being at the covered court at dismissal; it is fun to talk to the kids about their day. It has allowed me to make so many new friends.”

LEARNING RESPONSIBILITY HELPING OTHERS

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Students are sworn in during the first part of the school year at an official ceremony with the Alachua County Sheriff’s Department. This year, Sergeant Eddie May, the current Safety Patrol Liaison for the county, led the students’ pledge to perform their duties faithfully, obey teachers and officers of the patrol, report dangerous student practices and strive to earn the respect of fellow students.

2015 marks the 38th year that the Alachua County Sheriff’s Office has sponsored the Safety Patrol program through Alachua County Schools. Through the partnership with ASO Juvenile Relations Bureau and Educational Tours, the Safety Patrol program is known for the annual trip to Washington, D.C., each year. Area schools take their trips in June after school is out for the summer. Last year over 1,000 students, chaperones, teachers and law enforcement went on the trip from Alachua County.

Most students see this as their final farewell to elementary school and really find the exploration of D.C. with their friends a time they will always remember.

“The trip to Washington, D.C., is a great way to finish out the year as a reward for our patrols who have faithfully served.

Our patrols are excited and ready to make great memories that will last a lifetime,” said Deanna Feagin, the BRT and Safety Patrol Representative for Talbot Elementary School. ✽ For more information about the Safety Patrol program and the trip to Washington, D.C., visit Acsosafetypatroltrip.com.

Photos by Amber Ferrell.

Both are students from Talbot Elementary School, where they applied to be a patrol at the end of fourth grade for a patrol position the following year. Thirty-two public, private, charter and parochial schools participate in the Safety Patrol program, with most of the students being in fifth grade.

While each individual school has specific criteria, all patrols are required to have good conduct, keep up good grades, maintain good attendance and be punctual. In addition, they must follow all school rules and set a good example for other students. Being a patrol means they will have assigned posts that they are expected to report to on a daily basis. This might mean they will need to arrive early to school or stay late after school to

assist with students arriving and exiting the school, or with classroom or school duties.

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Amazing Animal Encounters

BY OLIVIA K PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Children have a unique fascination with animals. Introduce a child to a new animal and watch her take in every inch of fur, feather or fin.

Lucky for us, we have several learning opportunities for our kids right in our own backyard. Here are a few animal encounters in Alachua County to enjoy at no cost.

Morningside Nature Center offers two programs from September to May for kids to get up close and personal with animals at the Living History Farm.

On Wednesdays at 3 p.m., children can help farmhands feed hay to a lovely cow named Penny, bring their own apples to feed pigs and scatter seeds for the chickens. On the first Friday of every month, kids can learn about amphibians and reptiles.

Visit Cityofgainesville.org for more information.

Ducks, Birds and Turtles at the Pond

The pond adjacent to North Florida Regional Medical Center gives kids ample opportunity to feed leftover bread to the ducks and birds that inhabit it. Most of the time you can find a trail of ducklings waddling after their mama, which is always a cute sight! Turtles can also be found sunbathing at the water’s edge.

Horsin’ Around

The Mill Creek Farm for Retired Horses in Alachua is a family favorite. The farm cares for 130 horses, some of which were abandoned and neglected.

Others are retired from law enforcement and the military. On Saturdays, you can bring a bag of carrots and walk the spacious grounds to feed the horses.

(Bring one bag per person; the carrots go fast!) There are also plaques along the fence that tell you the stories of these retirees.

Visit Millcreekfarm.org for more information.

GOing Batty

Bats aren’t just for Halloween. Pack a picnic and visit Lake Alice on the UF campus at dusk and you could spot them flying out of the Bat Barn to catch an insect and a drink of water. Prime viewing season is late spring and early summer due to a longer period of twilight during this time.

HOME ON THE RANGE

Payne’s Prairie Preserve, located off of I-75 in Micanopy, is more than 20,000 acres and home to a variety of wildlife, including alligators, wild horses, bison, wild boars and more than 270 species of birds. Parking is $6 per vehicle, but it’s a small price to pay to visit this national landmark.

Additional Animal Attractions These fun encounters are close to home and require a small entrance/participation fee:

Historic Charm

• Two Tails Ranch in Williston: Allaboutelephants.com • Endangered Animal Rescue Sanctuary in Citra: Earsinc.net • Santa Fe College Teaching Zoo in Gainesville: Sfcollege.edu/zoo

Nestled in the historic Duck Pond neighborhood, northeast of downtown Gainesville, is a small retention pond that is home to several swans and geese. When my children and I went to see the newborn swans last fall, I was touched at how the neighbors take care of the area. I spoke to one man who built steps to the pond’s center island so the baby swans can climb up. There is an aluminum trash can set up to throw in leftover bread and when the geese hear the clanging can, they know it’s chow time! Just don’t get too close … those birds can get a little nibbly!

More Florida Wildlife Fun Check out the Audubon Nature Florida app on iTunes ($4.99) for a look at over 2,100 species of animals, insects, reptiles and plants that are found in Florida.

Explore the online version of Florida Wildlife Magazine at Floridawildlifemagazine.com to view up-close photos and fascinating news about our state’s amazing wildlife.

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© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved. Alligator photo by Bob Snyder. Cow and ducklings photo by Allison Raber. Horse photo by Giggle Magazine.

Barnyard Buddies

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In Honor of

Her

Being a mother is unlike any other job in the world. It is an all-day, every day position that is unique to each woman. These six local mothers share their personal journeys of love and how they are fulfilling this role we call motherhood.

BY REBECCA VITKUS | PHOTOS BY LIFEPRINTS PHOTOGRAPHY

What has been your biggest challenge in mothering? Learning to balance everyone's needs along with my own, and not sweating the small stuff.

Stay-at-Home Mom Natacha Maree Cyran Mom to Connor (3 ½) and Blake (11 months)

Stay-at-Home Mom What is your "Mommy Mantra"?

My child is not giving me a hard time, my child is having a hard time.

What is the best parenting advice you've received? Catch them being good!

What is your favorite aspect of being a mom? Seeing the world through their eyes and getting to feel like a kid all over again. Experiencing their joys as they become your joys!

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What do you do for "me-time"? I always try to allow myself to grow in some way, whether it's reading, picking up a new hobby or challenging myself in some way (I just trained for my first half-marathon and had never been a runner before!). I'm also currently in my second musical theatre production at the Gainesville Community Playhouse. I loved theatre for years before I had my children and it's been rejuvenating to pursue it again after being away from it for so long.

It's so important to remember that who you were before you had kids still exists within!

What would you tell yourself if you could go back to before you were a mom? I would tell myself to sleep in late as much as possible before

children, because eventually sleeping in will mean 8 a.m.!

What are you most looking forward to in raising your child(ren)?

Discovering more each day who they are and watching the people they become over the years. Seeing what and whom they will love, the joy, the heartaches, the achievements – I just feel so lucky to be part of that experience!

Who is part of your support system? I'm so thankful for my amazing husband, Lukasz, our loving family (especially our children's two grandmothers and great grandmother), our friends and my circle of mommy friends I've known since my oldest was a baby (MENO!). They are my rock!

Single Mom Julie Mishoe Mom to Paul (7) and Lily Joy (5)

Director of Student Ministries at Trinity UMC What is your "Mommy Mantra"?

"Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work." (C.S. Lewis) While I love my calling into full time youth ministry, I could easily let it become a 24 hours-a-day, 7 days-aweek job. I want my kids to always remember that they are my number one priority, and that my job is something they get to be a part of, not a distraction from.

What is the best parenting advice you've received? “Point your kids in the right direction - when they are old

they won’t be lost.” (Proverbs 22:6) We can only do our best when it comes to raising our kids. I think most moms are worried we aren’t doing “enough;” enough bedtime stories, enough athletics, enough organic foods, enough instruments practiced, enough studying, etc. But if I raise my kids with a sense of belonging in God’s love, than that is enough for me. After that they will find their way.

be back at home that night. The ocean helps give such a calming perspective on life. I never leave the beach overwhelmed or anxious, but renewed and grateful.

What has been your biggest challenge in mothering? Letting go of expectations, for myself and my kids. My little sister gave me a magnet several years ago that says “Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful,” and it’s so true. I love my wonderful life even if it's nothing like I expected.

Who is part of your support system? My immediate family is (mostly) still here in Gainesville, and they are incredible. I am from a large family so I love watching my kids be surrounded by grandparents, aunts, uncles and cousins all the time. I also have a second family of best friends that my kids know we are related to “by love.” And of course our church family that is helping raise Paul and Lily Joy to know and love God.

What do you do for "me-time"? I love the beach and I try to get there as often as possible. I am so lucky to be just a couple of hours away so I can go for a sunrise or even for the day, and

What would you tell yourself if you could go back to before you were a mom? It is going to be harder than you can possibly imagine, but also infinitely better.

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Military Mom Jamie Mackenzie Mom to Kayla (11)

CRNA (Advanced Registered Nurse Practitioner), Former Military Police Officer What is the best parenting advice you've received?

Compliment your children every day. I received a magnet at the hospital when Kayla was born that said this and it stuck with me. Something as simple as "You are so funny” or “I am thinking of you always” can change their whole day. I sometimes put little notes in Kayla's lunch box telling her how amazing she is, so maybe in the middle of a hard day it might make her smile. I also think it is important to define a line as a parent. As a single mom I am Kayla's mom and dad. I have learned a good balance between being a fun mom and establishing boundaries to ensure she knows I am still the parent.

What has been your biggest challenge in mothering?

Building my career while raising my daughter. I started school full-time when she was 3 months old and never really stopped. I worked two full-time jobs, while I was in nursing school full-time as well. I struggled with guilt because I couldn't spend every minute with her, but I knew it was for her benefit. I still never missed a soccer game or a performance. It is so important to me to be "present" and involved. She tells me now that the day I graduated anesthesia school was the happiest day of her life! She stood at the bottom of the stage and gave me the biggest hug. It’s a nice feeling when your children are proud of you.

What are you most looking forward to in raising your child(ren)? Kayla is very involved with performance theater so I look forward to potentially seeing her shine on stage one day. The teenage years are also coming, and they are exciting yet terrifying to me. High school, learning how to drive, prom, hormones and college planning! I look forward to the upcoming moments, good and bad, and also watching Kayla make her own choices based on what she has learned, seeing the opportunities she gets and watching her shine!

Who is part of your support system? My mother was a single mom of three kids. She has been independent, hardworking and driven my whole life. I am who I am because of her. She helped nanny my daughter during my many night shifts and when I was on 24-hour call at the hospital! My grandmother, stepdad, brothers and friends also played a roll in supporting me. I am lucky to have such amazing people in my life. I also have to give credit to God because many prayers were answered during this time in my life so I am thankful and truly blessed.

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Working Mom Florida Bridgewater-Alford Mom to Symone (12) and Reign (7) Campus Community Outreach Director, University of Florida, and Adjunct Lecturer, UF College of Journalism and Communications What is the best parenting advice you've received?

Strive to always do your very best at whatever task is at hand; remember with God, all things are possible; and pray daily. Thankfully, I share and practice all three. Thanks for the blueprint, Mom!

What is your favorite aspect of being a mom? I love to laugh and have fun – and our kids do too. It’s not unusual when we hear a song on the radio or on the TV, that we spontaneously take a break and dance … especially our son! I love to hear them laugh; it’s the best sound in the world. They have great laughs and snuggle hugs! And, I love to witness their accomplishments – acting in their school plays, cheerleading, reciting their Easter speeches or participating in their youth activities at church … I am their loudest fan.

What do you do for "me-time"? I have a few favorite

sitcoms and dramas that I make time for – “Big Bang Theory,” “Seinfeld,” “Scandal “and “How to Get Away with Murder.” I am usually watching late at night after the kids are asleep. I enjoy my monthly book club meetings and traveling once a year with my sorority sisters attending our organization’s regional or national conferences.

What would you tell yourself if you could go back to before you were a mom? Raising children who

have distinct personalities from each other is an interesting journey. I would offer simple advice – time is valuable – spend it wisely – remembering, contributing and balancing.

The journey is terrifically tough, yet perfectly rewarding. Yes, it’s OK to take a break from the hustle and bustle.

Who is part of your support system? I am extremely blessed! Of course, my husband, who is a great dad. He loves to spoil the kids ALL OF THE TIME. I am OK serving in the heavy role. Someone has to do it. My mom (Nana), and my two brothers, who offer advice and strength when the day appears bleak at times. And, I live in a city where my husband's family and my beautiful mom-in-law (Grandma) resides. She is only five minutes away by car and is always willing to take the kids at the very last minute when I need to attend a meeting or work late.

My husband’s brother, Aquila, who helps as well. My church family and the kid's Godparents. Then, my special sorority sisters, who are pretty much “the aunties” who support and love on the kids all of the time.

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Advocate Mom Kris Hersom Mom to Cole (15), Sam (13) and Kaitlyn (7)

Registered Nurse, School Nurse at Newberry High School What is your "Mommy Mantra"?

Keep on swimming. No matter what happens, you have to get back up and keep on trying your best.

What is the best parenting advice you've received? Don’t neglect your

relationship with your husband. It is easy to get caught up in all of the kids’ needs and activities and forget the relationship that started it all. This relationship is the bedrock of the family and must be nurtured to be the best parents we can be.

What has been your biggest challenge in mothering? When our

middle child, Sam, was 18 months old he was diagnosed with Duchenne Muscular

Dystrophy (DMD). This is a progressive muscle wasting disease that has no cure or treatment. DMD will eventually cause him to lose all muscle function, including the muscles used to breathe and his heart. Sam walked for the last time on his 11th birthday and has been in a wheelchair full-time for 2 ½ years. Having a child with different abilities changes every aspect of your life.

Going anywhere requires equipment and planning. Many things are off limits to us because of stairs or sand or water that the wheelchair cannot go through. We cannot get into most people’s houses, so it can be very isolating. As a result, our family unit has become closer. Although Sam takes up a lot of our time and energy, we do our best to give the other two kids their own special time and make sure they know that they are important too.

What do you do for "me-time"?

Watching old episodes of “Parenthood” on Netflix while working out on my elliptical machine. Good for the body and the soul.

What would you tell yourself if you could go back to before you were a mom? Your life will be very different than you plan for it to be, but it will still

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be amazing! You will find that you have strength that you can’t even imagine, courage that you did not know you possess, and you will love greater than you ever imagined.

Who is part of your support system?

Our faith in God and our belief that His plan is perfect helps us daily. All of our family lives in Iowa but we are blessed that my parents have become snowbirds this year. It has been very helpful to have someone else know how to take care of Sam’s needs. Our church family has been a tremendous support and even helped us make our home wheelchair-accessible.

We are blessed to be part of all of the Newberry schools. Nothing beats the small town family atmosphere we have here.

For the past three years we have organized the Sam Strong Run 2 End Duchenne, a 5K run and 1-mile walk to raise money for Parent Project Muscular Dystrophy (PPMD) to help find a cure for DMD. We have had tremendous community support.

We have had around 300 people registered for the event each year, numerous volunteers, and have raised over $35,000.

Be on the lookout for the 4th Annual Sam Strong Run coming up this September!

Stepmom

Katrina Herrera Mom to Jorge, Jr. (15) and Emily (11)

Assistant Preschool Teacher What is your "Mommy Mantra"?

Choose your battles!

What is the best parenting advice you've received? Choose your words carefully; they can never been taken back. My mom always told me when I feel overwhelmed to walk away for a few minutes and cool down before I say something I will regret.

What is your favorite aspect of being a mom? Making memories with our kids … I spend a lot of time with each of them one-on-one and together.

It has been so much fun watching them

grow. They are truly amazing kids and I am so grateful for the relationship I have with each of them.

What has been your biggest challenge in mothering? Over the years I have had to constantly remind myself that first and foremost I am their mother and not their friend. They may not always like my decisions, but they respect me for it.

What do you do for "me-time"?

Nothing too exciting! I am content to just curl up with a good book or relax on the hammock in our backyard and watch our chickens run around.

What would you tell yourself if you could go back to before you were a mom? That I was in for the ride of a lifetime! Being a mom is the hardest job in the world and yet so rewarding

and fulfilling. Even on our worst day, it is such a gift to be called “Mom.” What are you most looking forward to in raising your children? The moments ahead! I have such great memories with them but I know there are so many more to come.

Who is part of your support system?

My parents are my biggest supporters; they are AMAZING! They have always been the first ones to lend a hand or give helpful advice when we need it. They have had such a big impact on my life and it is fun to watch them now do the same thing with our kids. We also have some great friends that have helped along the way.

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conception2college™  expecting Exploring the Myths of Gender Prediction

 infant | 0-1 Momtography 101: Professional Advice for Taking Pictures of Your Little One

 toddler | 2-3 Perfecting the Switch from a Crib to a Big Kid Bed

 early years | 4-5 Childhood Moments: Becoming the Older Sibling

 kids | 6-7 Let the Style Wars Begin!

 tweens | 8-12 Sleepover Dilemma: When the Younger Sibling is the Third Wheel

 teens | 13-18

Photo by Sweet Serendipity Photography.

Teens and Dating: When are They Ready?

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p re g n a n cy

Exploring the Myths of Gender Prediction

BY BRINN STRANGE

It is only natural for expecting parents to wonder if they should register for more pink or blue after discovering they are pregnant. If they are willing to wait, Mom- and Dad-to-be can normally feel more confident after their ultrasound and doctor’s visit around week twenty. However, that still leaves plenty of opportunities for family, friends and random grocery-store-linewaiters to make their own predictions.

Not So Sure:

“I heard that if you tie a washer to a string and hold it above the belly, you can determine the gender by which way the washer started spinning.” ~Valerie, mom of Rose and Billy “Girls steal your beauty. Judging by the amount of blemishes I am experiencing with this pregnancy, it is surely a girl!” ~Morgan, expecting “I heard that if you pour bleach into the toilet before peeing, the water changes color based on whether it’s a boy or girl ...

I haven’t tried this yet.” ~Sarah, expecting “Several ladies told me to try using the Chinese Gender Chart online. This was not accurate for me.” ~Kim, mom of Abby Websites such as Babycenter.com link to The Ancient Chinese Gender Chart. Legend has it, the birth chart was discovered on a scroll over 700 years ago and scholars have used the chart to predict gender based on the Chinese lunar calendar. However, the site admits that the forecast is more fun than scientific.

Maybe Something to It:

“I had heard that if the baby’s heart rate was lower than 160 it was probably a boy. Elijah’s heart rate at 6 weeks was 136 and pretty much stayed that way every week after, so at 20 weeks I was pretty certain it was a boy just based off that.” ~Nicole, mom of Elijah “I heard many times that how you carry the baby predicts the baby’s gender. I carried Rose high and Billy low (this might have also been because Billy weighed 2 more pounds and was the second born, but, nevertheless, they were right).” ~Valerie, mom of Rose and Billy “I was told you craved more salty foods if you carry a boy, and I can kind of buy that. I enjoyed salty foods with both Jack and Norah, but I found myself wanting more sweets with Norah.” ~Lindsey, mom of Jack and Norah “Some of the older ladies I worked with commented that boys tend to stick straight out like a basketball and girls tend to fill out on your sides like a tire — toward the end, I was definitely more of a tire!” ~Laura, mom of Maya

Kendra Czigany, RDMS, RVT, and owner of Fetal Flix, a local, fetal imaging facility, feels that gender prediction myths are fun to share and that they often help Mom and Dad to bond with baby — always a good thing! Ultimately, Czigany believes in science: “If I see it, I believe it,” which is why “3D/4D imaging is about more than taking pretty pictures; it’s about bringing you into the miraculous world inside the womb!”

Gainesville OBGYN’s Dr. Michael Cotter has heard a number of different gender predictions from parents in his office, such

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as boys cause more vivid dreams than girls. However, he confirms that these myths are not based on scientific fact.

"The distribution of boys and girls born is consistent throughout the year with slightly more boys being born than girls, and does not show any fluctuation that would not be predicted by random chance,” Cotter explained. “No matter what the sex of the baby, the birth of a child is a wondrous event, and there is always the option of waiting for the big reveal on the day of the birth.”

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A Professional Perspective

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a g es 0 - 1

Momtography 101: Professional Advice for Taking Pictures of Your Little One

BY PATRICIA BISHOP, giggle magazine photographer and owner of patricia bishop photography

A baby’s first year offers so many opportunities to capture amazing pictures of your little one. You don’t need a fancy camera or great props to make a great picture; you need a happy (or sleepy) baby and beautiful, natural light.

Below are a few tips to help you capture timeless photos of your new love.

❉ Find the light

As long as there is daylight you can get beautiful baby photos with natural light. Window light is best, but make sure it’s indirect to keep the baby from squinting or harsh shadows from being created. Shooting outside? The best time for this is within one hour from sunrise and two hours before sunset.

❉ Time it right

All babies have a “best time” for photos; keep an eye out for “happy” time and “sleepy” time. There is no point in trying to shoot a happy, tranquil photo when the baby is not in the mood. Put the camera away and try again tomorrow. The time is different for all babies but you have the advantage of being with yours all the time.

❉ Keep baby comfy

If you want a cooperative model then make sure she’s well-rested, well-fed, and comfortable (clean diaper and clothes that aren’t too hot or too tight). Plan your photo shoot within a half hour after feeding your baby and keep the outfit simple. If you want to capture her in her birthday suit, turn on a space heater to keep her warm and happy.

❉ Forget the props

The photograph is not about the props (no jumbo headbands, please), it's just about your beautiful baby. Big hats, tutus, or oversized or colorful blankets just distract from your baby.

Choosing a plain background is as simple as moving furniture to open up a blank wall, or just putting your baby on top of a white comforter on the floor. Also, make it personal. Take pictures in settings that have meaning for you – the nursery you worked so hard on, the special chair Grandpa made or on an old family quilt.

❉ Capture the details

❉ Be prepared

Keep your camera ready at all times. The more familiar your baby is with a camera, the more natural your photographs will be.

With a camera at hand, you'll always be ready for those special spontaneous moments. Your favorite photos of your baby will most likely be the candid ones, so keep shooting! ✽

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Photos by Patricia Bishop Photography.

Don’t forget to document all of those sweet little details. That little upturned nose, rosebud lips, dimpled chin, tiny toes, furrowed brows – these are all things you will not want to forget as your baby grows. This works best by getting down to the baby’s level. As a newborn photographer, I spend most of my sessions on the ground trying to get all the shots. Angles are so important; instead of rushing to change your setup or reposition your baby, try getting up and walking around your baby to see what unique angles you can photograph. Walk behind your baby and shoot some pictures from the shadowed side – you may end up with an image that you love. Exhaust all of your angles before moving on to a new pose or setup. This is an easy way to get variety out of a single pose.

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toddler

a g es 2 - 3

Big Kid Time: Perfecting the Switch from Crib to Bed

BY COLLEEN MCTIERNAN

low-lying bed may be a good option. If your child will be moving directly into a regular bed, put up some sort of barrier around the edges. You can install bed rails, line pillows around the edge, or even tuck a pool noodle under the fitted sheet to create a makeshift wall.

Make the move fun and comfortable

Talk to your child about his new bed before moving him into it, to get him comfortable with the idea. Tell him about friends’ and older siblings’ transitions or let grandparents tell him about your own move!

Although your child may love the crib he is in now, every little one has to make the transition to a big bed at sometime. This switch can be difficult, but if you’re careful about when and how you introduce your child to his new bed, the experience can be positive and fun for the both of you. Here are some things to consider when making the big move.

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Timing is everything

Make sure you don’t start this move too quickly! Though the average age for children to leave their crib is between 18 months and 3 years old, there is no set age at which children have to start sleeping in a bed. If your toddler is still sleeping well in his crib, then he can stay there, as long as there is no danger of him trying to climb out. Moving him too early may only make the transition harder for both of you.

“Most children make the move around age 2 ½ or 3. By age 3, kids are more likely to have the necessary impulse control and understand the concept of staying in bed

all night,” explained Heather Turgeon, MFT, and Julie Wright, MFT, co-authors of “The Happy Sleeper.”

Safety first

If your child is trying to escape from his crib, then it is definitely time to move him into a big kid bed. Children can be seriously injured taking a tumble out of their cribs, so if you have already moved the crib mattress as low as it can go, make the transition as soon as possible!

You will still need to put some safety measures in place once you’ve made the decision to move your child. A crib that transitions into a toddler bed or another

Let your child help pick out the new bedding and maybe a few stuffed animals to accompany him in the bed so he feels more familiar with the new surroundings. It might also be a good idea to place his bed in the same spot that the crib occupied. Be sure to remove the crib from that room (unless of course he will be sharing the room with a new baby!) to help ease the transition.

Remain patient with your child at this time. Leaving the crib may be more difficult for some children than others.

“Expect the transition to take a week or two for most toddlers,” said Turgeon and Wright. “It’s a big change!” ✽ gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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Childhood Moments:

Becoming the Older Sibling

BY ALE RUSSIAN

The life-changing event of bringing your new baby home is equal parts terrifying and exciting. You don’t really know when you’ll be sleeping, eating or showering next, and you’re overwhelmed with love for the new little person in your life.

As consuming as it all is, the process can be more difficult if the baby will be joining a sibling waiting at home. Being the older child in this situation might seem like it has no perks. Your firstborn now has to get used to not being the center of your world. Keep this in mind when planning how to transition your growing family, giving her plenty of love and attention along the way.

Get her used to the idea

Plan ahead for changes

The permanent change in routine is typically what affects older siblings the most when the new baby comes home. To avoid further problems, start implementing some changes as soon as possible. If she is going to have to move rooms for the nursery’s new space, transition her a few months ahead. This will avoid her discomfort when the baby

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Include her in the baby routine

With the new baby requiring a ton of attention, your older one may start to feel like she’s being replaced or no longer important in the household.

Combat this by including her in the daily baby routine. Although she can’t change diapers yet, your older one can help by bringing a new diaper to you or handing you the baby’s clothes. Tell her it’s her very special job and that she’s the best one for it! ✽

Important to remember: Bringing your new bundle home doesn’t make your other child any older! Although it may feel like she is ready for a lot more responsibilities, partly due to the doubling up of yours, take into account what is developmentally appropriate for her age and avoid further distress.

Books to Help with the New Life Change: • “What to Expect When the

New Baby Comes Home” by Heidi Murkoff

• “There’s a House Inside my Mummy” by Giles Andreae and Vanessa Cabban

• “Ever So Ever So” by Kes Gray • “I’m a Big Brother” by Joanna Cole (Also, “I’m a Big Sister”)

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

The hardest part of the transition will be your older child realizing that the baby is here to stay. Start this process by getting her used to the idea during the pregnancy. Show her your growing belly and let her feel the little kicks from her new sibling. If adopting, involve her in any (age-appropriate) pregnancy updates you receive from the birth mother. Make fun “Big Sister” and “Little Brother” T-shirts to celebrate the upcoming new roles. Try giving her a doll a few months before the birth and have her take care of it as she would her new baby brother or sister. It will give her an idea of what it will be like when the new baby actually arrives.

comes home. Make this an exciting event for her. Let her choose a new bedding set or wall paint color. Or if she’ll be using a new car seat so the baby can use hers, bring her along when you make the purchase and install the new seat.

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a g es 6 - 7

If someone had told me as a new mother that I would someday have knockdown, drag-out battles over clothing with the little angel I held in my arms, I may not have believed them.

Around age 1½, my oldest daughter used her new language skills to string together such phrases as “No dress!” and “I want the pink one!” From there, her language and negotiating skills grew in sophistication and she could more articulately argue with me (albeit with more door slamming and tantrums) over my choice of clothing for her. Almost all of the pictures I have of her at home until she was about 4 are either in wacky, mismatched weather-inappropriate attire, or of her in only underwear because she would refuse to wear anything at all.

My other children followed suit, even my boys. How dare these children assert their free will, I ask?

Clothing battles are especially frustrating because the end results broadcast to the

world the score of your morning war.

Child – 1, Parent – 0. I wanted to make a badge for my daughter to wear when she was little that said proudly, “I dressed myself.” Even though anyone who even threw her a cursory glance knew that no sane mother would have willingly dressed her that way.

My good friend Ashley McPherson has experienced this firsthand with her oldest child, Amy, who had decided the only shoes she would wear when outside playing would be fancy dress shoes.

She took out the bow, pulled her hair back so you could not see the curls and added tattoos.

She crossed her arms like this to proudly show off her handiwork.

After battling many times (and ruining several pairs of dress shoes), Ashley finally designated one pair of dress shoes for outside.

I laughed so hard when her school pictures came in. Of course I bought them. This is her personality.”

So what happens when clothing battles test the limits of your family’s gender roles? Or the desired clothing isn’t ageappropriate?

Terri, Mom of 3 Parenting can be boiled down to the balance between rules and relationship.

If you desire rule following above all else, you sacrifice much of your relationship with your child. And all relationship with no rules leads to destructive behavior and a child who lives on your couch when he’s 35. Somewhere in there exists a balance where you determine what’s right for your family (maybe you allow your son to wear his hair long, or your daughter to have a “tomboy” look), and you allow them some freedoms to preserve your relationship with them. I do draw the line at cleanliness, modesty and weather appropriateness. And occasionally a certain event pops up that calls for specific attire and my children must comply (under duress and with much complaining). Ultimately, the bestdressed child is the one who expresses himself within the loving confines of family boundaries. ✽

Photos provided by Terri Smith.

“Remember,” she said, “the end goal is to have a healthy functioning self who is capable of making good choices throughout life with good inner muscles. We don’t just want to make quick peace by getting obedience without maintaining relationship, or giving full reign without boundaries.” gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

“When Roxanne left for school the morning of her 1st grade school picture day, her long hair was in curls with a little white bow on one side to keep the bangs from her eyes. And she did not have tattoos!

“She has a bit of a shoe fetish,” Ashley said. “She refused to wear anything but pretty ballerina-like shoes.”

Licensed Mental Health Counselor Alicia Pfahler reassures parents that “some self expression is healthy within limits.” Her advice is to give children choices with set boundaries.

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IT HAPPENED

BY KELLY GOEDE

TO ME!

Let the Style Wars Begin!

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Sleepover Dilemma:

The "include everyone rule"

When the Younger Sibling Is the Third Wheel

BY APRIL TISHER

I have four children. It never fails that there is a younger one outside of someone’s bedroom door knocking and begging to be allowed in. It’s even more dramatic when there are friends over. Someone feels left out, there are arguments over who gets to play what game or watch a particular movie, or who gets to sit next to the guest. How should you handle playdates or sleepovers when siblings are home?

Should some household rules be bent when there are extra kids in the house?

The first thing to consider in these situations is age appropriateness. With varied age ranges, there is usually a separation in what each sibling is allowed to do or watch.

Elaine Almond, mom of three, says that she operates by the “include everyone rule.”

When she lets her older boys have friends over, she ensures that they are playing games and watching movies that are also appropriate for her 4-year-old daughter.

She says what works best for their family is to let each child have a friend over at the same time. Elaine admits she does bend regular bedtime rules a little for sleepovers by letting them all sleep in the playroom in sleeping bags and fall asleep watching a special movie.

If you are lucky enough to have grandparents in town who are available for grandkid sleepovers, this is a great time to take advantage of that! In my house, I have two boys close in age so there is a lot of competition for the visiting friend’s attention. To avoid hurt feelings, the child who doesn’t have a friend over gets to go to Grandma’s for some fun. If both boys have a friend at the same time, my 4-yearold daughter stays with Grandma so she doesn’t feel left out when the boys don’t want to involve her in their activities. If you don’t have relatives close enough for those options, you can work out a trade with another family where you take one of their children for a time frame and they take one of yours.

The key to keeping sleepover peace is finding out what works best for your

Ann Douglas, author of “The Mother of All Parenting Books,” suggests that everyone sleep in a star formation, with everyone’s head pointed toward the center. This should eliminate any controversy over who sleeps next to whom.

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family. You have to first decide at what age you feel sleepovers are appropriate for your children, which may vary from child to child. You also have to be comfortable with the families and the children you have staying in your home.

Remember that things change and what works now may not always work. As your children get older they’ll want more independence and freedom to spend time with their friends without their siblings interfering. ✽

Special Sleepover Snack!

Having a special breakfast (or late-night snack) for sleepovers brings everyone together.

My husband, Chris, makes Mickey Mouse chocolate chip pancakes in the morning. It doesn’t matter the age of the children; everyone loves them!

© 2015 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Mom of three Cara Laney has a different approach. Her oldest child is her 10-yearold daughter, followed by two sons close in age. She feels like her daughter needs her privacy and one-on-one time with her

friends. Her husband usually takes the boys out for a special night and allows the girls to have their time to do preteen girl things. When the boys have their friends over, she takes her daughter off to allow the boys time to just be boys without their sister interfering.

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teens Teens and Dating: When Are They Ready?

a g es 1 3 - 1 8

BY LISA KATZ

The teenage years can be some of the best years in a person’s life. During this time, your child may find a best friend, develop a great relationship with his coach, explore a newfound talent or even fall in love for the first time.

Love and Crushes

During these formative years, it is beneficial for your teenager to begin to understand the difference between love and having a crush.

To be fair, this understanding is sometimes difficult to comprehend even as an adult.

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Love is a deep feeling that develops over time. When you are in love, you want to be there through all of the good and the bad times. You are physically attracted to each other and emotionally committed. You are supportive and considerate of each other’s feelings. Love is also working as a team to get through difficult situations and then wanting to celebrate any victories … together.

Having a crush on someone can also be an exciting time. You want to spend all of your time together but usually only for the fun times. Having a crush often recognizes that person as being “perfect,”and that ideal image can often lead to only seeing the good in someone and none of the flaws. Having a crush is often just being in love with love or what you think love is or could be.

“...during adolescence, dating is a dress rehearsal for adult relationships.”

Into the Dating World

So when do you allow your teen to start exploring those love vs. crush feelings and begin dating? As you would imagine, every parent has a different opinion. Talk openly with your own children about their thoughts as well as your personal, parental expectations.

We understand that every child matures at a slightly different age. A 15-year-old girl may be more mature and ready to date while a 16-year-old boy isn’t even close to being ready for such a responsibility.

Often, parents will start their teen’s dating process in steps by allowing their 14-year-old to only go out on “group dates.” Kids are typically fine with that restriction at this stage.

Many parents feel 16 is a better, more mature age to begin actual dating.

“One-on-one dates should probably wait until age 16 or even 17, depending on the maturity of the teen, and your assessment of the date in question,” suggests Mary Waldon, a licensed clinical social worker.

Building Blocks

Being in different types of relationships will help to mold your child’s perception of friendships and love for years to come.

Dr. Brenda Schaeffer, psychologist and author of “Love or Addiction: The Power and Peril of Teen Sex and Romance,” views teen dating as a pivotal time.

“The thing is, during adolescence, dating is a dress rehearsal for adult relationships,” explains Dr. Schaeffer.

While one never knows how long a teenage love or crush will last, understand that it will feel very real to your child. Take your teen seriously and do not mock his feelings. This is a huge learning time in your teen’s life.

Your teen needs you right now… even if he thinks he doesn’t. Be a pillar of support, and be open to questions and conversations as your teen ventures into the sometimes scary but wonderful world of love. ✽

Parent-to-Parent: “We told our son, who is 14, that if he wanted to date he had to have my husband or me there, or he could have a group of six or more friends there. He chose us.”

- Donna L.

“I tell my 14-year-old daughter that whenever she starts dating, I’m going to tell the young man that everything he does to her I will do to him. You know, kissing, hugging, whatever.”

- Andy L.

“I tell my daughter to remember that boys have feelings too and think about how her brother feels when a girl plays games. It's better to be straightforward. When our son started dating at 16, I felt like it was a new phase and exciting. I also hoped I’d like the girl!”

- Gena B.

“For dating, our rule was not until age 16 and there were many restrictions. I had to know what time things were beginning and ending, where they were at all times and which friends they were with. Who you are with can have a big influence too. Sometimes I snuck around to check on them. They never even knew it!”

- Vickie C.

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happy community

E xtra , E xtra

Lau ren’s Kid s

Lauren sharing her new book, "Lauren's Kingdom"

Educating Our Children on Personal Safety & Empowerment

by CRESONIA HSIEH

As the daughter of a prominent lobbyist in Florida, Lauren Book grew up in what appeared to be a stable, upper class home. But underneath all the smiles and small talk, lay loads of secrets. A vicious cycle of verbal, physical and even sexual abuse from Book’s stay-at-home nanny became one of them.

The problems continued for six years before Book mustered up the courage to tell her parents for the first time in 2001.

But she didn’t stop there.

Armed with the knowledge that 95 percent of sexual abuse can be prevented through education and awareness, Book became founder and CEO of her non-profit organization, Lauren’s Kids, in 2007.

Her organization works to educate both adults and children about sexual abuse prevention through in-school curricula, books, awareness campaigns and speaking engagements.

Photos courtesy of Lauren's Kids.

In 2012, Lauren’s Kids united with a team of classroom teachers, guidance counselors, principals and administrators, and worked to release the “Safer, Smarter Kids” curriculum for voluntary pre-k (VPK) programs. The curriculum seeks to empower children by teaching them about trust, self-respect and verbal communication.

After the Florida legislature noticed a 77 percent learning gain in children regarding their knowledge of critical personal safety information, the State of Florida gave Lauren’s Kids an appropriation to be able to distribute the curriculum all throughout the state. The curriculum is now in over 16,000 VPK programs throughout Florida.

“Children develop rapport with their classroom teacher. They feel safe with their teacher. So oftentimes disclosure rates will be much higher when the curriculum is given by a classroom educator,” Book said.

This past fall, Lauren Kid’s pilot-tested the early elementary curricula with grades 1 – 3 in Alachua County and kicked off the new year with a two-day training workshop called the “Teachers’ Institute” in Tallahassee. The workshop served to educate teachers, guidance counselors and curriculum development specialists about the State of Florida’s new sexual abuse prevention curriculum, which includes instructional videos, music and interactive activities.

Kelly Warm, a second grade teacher at Lawton M. Chiles Elementary School and mom of three children, was asked to pilot the program.

“

I think it’s great! It’s very userfriendly,” Warm said. “Even before it was tweaked, the kids were highly engaged, and I think it teaches a lot of valuable things that are presented in age-appropriate ways.

”

The second grade teacher said her students loved the curriculum.

“They would ask me to play the song, and they would ask me days after we finished teaching it, ‘Are we going to do that again?’” Warm said.

The mother of three said she even taught some of the concepts to her own elementary- and middle school-aged children. Even though Warm considers

herself very reserved and cautious about mature topics, she said she felt comfortable with the curriculum.

“As a parent and a teacher, I felt very good about it,” Warm said.

According to Lauren’s Kids Communications Director, Claire VanSusteren, Lauren’s Kids also has curriculum for children with disabilities, underprivileged populations and will be rolling out a new curricula for middle and high school students. The program will be pilot-tested in June and released this fall in several different counties throughout the state. ✽ For more information, visit Laurenskids.org. gigglemag.com | APRIL/MAY 2015

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happy community MARCH 27 – APRIL 7 Saint Francis High School Spring Break APRIL 1 Cade Museum’s Fling It, Fly It, Float It: Wings Meet Wheels 1:30 – 3:30 p.m.

904 South Main St. Eventbrite.com APRIL 3 – 11 Passover APRIL 4 Morningside Nature Center: Spring Native Plant Sale 8:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Morningside Nature Center Cityofgainesville.org APRIL 4 8th Annual Easter Egg Hunt at Waldo Flea Market 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Waldoflea.com APRIL 5 Easter Sunday APRIL 11 Tioga Car Show 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Tioga Town Center Tiogacarshow.com APRIL 11 Swallowtail Spring Fest 11 a.m. – 10 p.m.

Alachua Facebook.com APRIL 11 – 12 Santa Fe College Spring Arts Festival 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.

Springartsfestival.com APRIL 12 Dudley Farm Kids Day: Partake of the Past 9 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Dudly Farm State Historic Park Floridastateparks.org APRIL 12 CAC Community Partner Night 7 – 10 p.m.

Hippodrome Theater Childadvocacycentergainesville.org APRIL 13 FLMNH Homeschool Day: Butterfly Rainforest 10 a.m. – Noon Florida Museum of Natural History Flmnh.ufl.edu

a p ril / may cale n d ar

APRIL 18 FLMNH: Earth Day Exploration 10 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Florida Museum of Natural History Flmnh.ufl.edu

APRIL 30 Nutty Scientists at the Oaks Mall 10 a.m. – 7 p.m.

The Oaks Mall Facebook.com

APRIL 18 Family Days at the Harn: Paint Like an Impressionist!

1 – 4 p.m.

Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu

APRIL 30 Team Dynamo and Cohen & Montini Orthodontics Wing Bowl 6:30 – 8:30 p.m.

Splitz Facebook.com

APRIL 18 7th Annual Spring Youth Concert: Little Red Riding Hood 2 p.m.

Performing Arts Center at P.K. Yonge Dance@suncountrysports.com

MAY 3 FLMNH Archaeology Workshop: Pottery 2 – 4 p.m.

Florida Museum of Natural History Flmnh.ufl.edu

APRIL 18 – 19 Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens Grand Opening and Spring Festival 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Cedar Lakes Woods and Gardens Cedarlakeswoodsandgarden.com

MAY 3 O2B A Kid Again 5 – 8 p.m.

O2B Kids Supercenter O2Bkids.com

APRIL 19 Alachua Main Street Festival 11 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Alachuabusiness.com APRIL 19 Youth Combine – Kids Triathlon 1 p.m.

Youthcombine.org APRIL 22 Earth Day APRIL 24 J.J. Finley Elementary 75th Anniversary Celebration 5 – 7 p.m.

J.J. Finley Elementary Finley75.com APRIL 25 – 26 Friends of the Library Spring Book Sale 9 a.m. – 6 p.m.

Folacld.org APRIL 25 Just for the Health of It! 5K 8:30 a.m.

Town of Tioga Active.com APRIL 25 Shands & Kohl’s Bike Rodeo and Summer Safety Fair 9 a.m. – 1 p.m.

O’Connell Center Parking Lot UFHealth.org

MAY 8 Leadercast 8:30 a.m. – 5 p.m.

Westside Baptist Church Leadercastgainesville.com MAY 8 Gainesville Orchestra: GO to the Circus 7:30 p.m.

UF Phillips Center Gcomusic.org MAY 10 Mother’s Day MAY 16 Gainesville Promise Walk for Preeclampsia 7:30 a.m.

Westside Park Promisewalk.org MAY 16 Blueberry Festival benefiting Cross Creek Volunteer Fire Department 8 a.m. – 4 p.m.

Crosscreekfestival.com MAY 16 May Day Glow Run 2 – 11 p.m.

Tioga Town Center Tiogatowncenter.com MAY 25 Memorial Day

Happy Spring!

happy community

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