Giggle Magazine October/November 2015T by Irving Publications, LLC

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

OCT/NOV 2015 • Volume 2 • Issue 2

fu n l l a

Meet Ryan, One of our Casting Call Cuties!

LOCAL FALL FESTIVALS SWEET & SALTY PUMPKIN TREATS 5 DAYS OF THANKFULNESS

and more!

www.gigglemag.com

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

PUBLISHER Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Allison Raber MANAGING Editor Dana Kamp GRAPHIC DESIGNER Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kerr executive assistant Sayeh Farah Contributing Writers Ariana Brasman, Kelly Goede, Allen Haynes, Dana Kamp, Jessica Kerr, Lisa Katz, Danielle Pastula, Olivia Pitkethly, Ale Russian, April Tisher, Rachel Wiener Contributing Photographers Ashley Daniell Photography, Lifeprints Photography, Patricia Bishop Photography, Terri Smith Photo Interns Michaela Beeda, Ariana Brasman, Ale Russian, Rachel Wiener

Mailing address

headquarters address

5745 SW 75th Street 101 SW 140th Terrace Unit 286 Suite C Gainesville, FL 32608 Jonesville, FL 32669 Gainesville Office: p. 352.505.5821 Tallahassee Office: p. 850.254.9704 Fax: 877.857.5140

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. ÂŠ 2015

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 publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

from the publisher

What I'm LOVING

ABOUT FALL Lately, I have found that teaching my children to be thankful and grateful is becoming harder and harder. Are you? COOLER WEATHER

Some days, I am begged and asked, until I can’t take it any more, for the newest toy, gadget or bike. I hear promises of rooms to be kept clean, beds to be made…if only I will get them the newest this or that. It’s never been our goal to spoil them, but in all honesty, I am sure that they are. Lately, one has been on a kick to get a new house, complete with a farm and sheep. That is where I drew the line. After that discussion, my son got an earful of how important it is to be grateful for what he has; his house, family, warm bed and meals. Did it sink in? Maybe for a moment.

se to Any excuut my scarf break o ts! and boo SWEET CINNAMON PUMPKIN HAND SANITIZER

We all want our children to grow up and be generous, grateful and productive citizens of our communities, but it is easier said than done. It is a constant job, maybe one of the most important we have as parents. During this season of thanks, I turn the tables on myself. To teach my children by example. To embrace the concept of thanks and gratitude to the fullest. We will be embracing our “thankful jar”, helping charitable organizations and donating unused toys to those who are in need.

PERFECT SEASON FOR SOUP!

This issue is full of wonderful ideas that you and your children can do together to embrace the season of giving. I hope you love it as much as we do! Happy Thanksgiving! Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

French with cheoension Yes, please? e!

Age: 2

Favorite stuffed animal: He has a Mickey Mouse stuffed animal that he takes EVERYWHERE!

Halloween costume: Batman. He's been itching to be Batman for months. He brings his dad and myself shirts and blankets to tie around his and Mickey Mouse's necks so that they can have capes, and then flies (runs) back and forth through the house.

RYAN Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGTALLAHASSEE

Favorite book: Digger the Dinosaur by Rebecca Kai Dotlich. He can recite it by heart!

Three words to describe him: Charismatic, well-mannered and smart. follow us on Twitter @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

Want Even More Giggle Goodness? Sign up for our newsletter and get access to more of the things you love - free printables, recipes, parenting advice, giveaways and more! Sign up today at www.gigglemag.com! Follow us on Instagram @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

Photo of Ryan by Ashley Daniell Photography.

Favorite fruit: Grapes; he will run through the bag by himself within two days if you let him!

October * November 2015 happy family • happy community

life 8

HAPPY FAMILY

The May Family

10 Just the two of us Seeking Professional Help for Your

Relationship

Family History Down to Your Children 12 power parent

Kerry Watson

14 lifesavers Make A Difference Day 2015

conception 2✱ college™

health

47 expecting

32 get Healthy

Steering Clear of Fall Allergies

34 get Pretty

Pregnancy Problems: Common or Time To Call the Doc?

48 infant

The Truth About Teething

8 Beauty Treats for Beautiful Fall Skin

49 TODDLER

The Picky Predicament

forks & spoons

50 early years

40 LUNCH BOX Fresh Flavors of Fall

51 kids

Keeping the Peace

Putting Verbal Disrespect to Rest

52 tweens

learn

Volunteering Opportunities for Tweens

54 teens

42 IN THE CLASSROOM Recognizing Red Ribbon Week

College Campus Visits: What to Know Before You Go

38 FAMILY LEARNING 10 Hobbies to Do As A Family

happy community

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

56 giggle readers share

Local Back-to-School Photos

OCT/NOV 2015 • Volume 2 • Issue 2

48 October/november calendar

features 17 37

GREATER

Meet Ryan, One of our Casting Call Cuties!

a ll

11 GRANDPARENTS Ensuring Your Tree Stands Tall: Passing

fu n

LOCAL FALL FESTIVALS SWEET & SALTY PUMPKIN TREATS 5 DAYS OF THANKFULNESS

and more!

Happy Fall!: Pumpkin Recipes, Fantastic Faces, Fall Festivals, 5 Days of Thankfulness, Glamorous Gourds and More! Roots to Success: Growing Up in Tallahassee and Creating a Dream of Their Own

www.gigglemag.com

GIGGLEMAG.COM | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Photo by Ashley Daniell Photography

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

life

h a pp y f a m i ly family. Also, Don is the drummer for the band Highway 85. Favorite sports to watch: College football. Favorite family activity: Spending weekends together at Lake Seminole. Pets: 2 black Labradors – Bo and Bandit. Favorite day trip: Deer hunting in Gadsden Co. Favorite family vacation destination: Camping in Whittier, N.C., and mission trips to Guatemala. What makes our kids laugh: The girls said their parents make them laugh! Why we love living in Tallahassee: Family, friends, pretty sunsets. Something that we want our children to have that we didn’t have growing up: International mission trips (they have been on two so far). First word you think of when we say “family”: Happy! Must-have item(s): Family time and meals together. Three words that describe our family: Close, happy, fun.

Photos by Ashley Daniell Photography

The May Family { Don, Kristie, Haley (19) and Morgan (16) } Occupation(s): Don – Tallahassee City Executive for Farmers and Merchants Bank, Kristie – kindergarten teacher at Gilchrist Elementary. Favorite family meal: Hamburgers at Big Jim's on Lake Seminole. Favorite date spot: Don and I enjoy going to Ricardo's. Our family is most like: The show “Modern Family.”

Movie in our DVD player right now: No movies, just 80’s music on the iPod. Mom and Dad’s favorite TV shows: “Modern Family” and “Mountain Men.” Websites we love: Don likes Tomahawknation.com; we all like Facebook. Our girls like Instagram and Twitter. Favorite sports/extracurriculars to do: Attending Seminoles games, watching Morgan play Chiles varsity basketball and flag football, boating, deer hunting as a

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Is there anything else you’d like to share about your family? Haley was diagnosed with diabetes at age 11. She decided she wanted to help spread awareness on diabetes and let others know what they can do to help. In her words … “I would like to help other kids realize that diabetes can't stop you from doing anything. I have spoken to the Leon County School Board, at the Jacksonville Cure Ball in April and have a commercial for my local hospital's Diabetes Center. When I was diagnosed, I started a car wash hoping to raise a few hundred dollars. It turned out to raise $5,000. In the 7 years I have had the carwash, we have raised a total of over $68,000 for the American Diabetes Association. In 2011, I was named Youth Volunteer of the Year for my city. I feel it is so important to advocate awareness for all diabetics.” ✽

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

life

just the two of us

Myth: We are going to tell the counselor what our problem is, and she is going to fix it. Reality: Counselors are not magicians. We don’t have a magic wand that can make all of your problems go away. Again, a counselor’s job is to help you find a solution. She will suggest homework or communication exercises that can help strengthen your relationship, but ultimately, making your marriage work is your responsibility.

Myth: My spouse and I have talked about divorce for a while. If we go to a marriage counselor, he will just want to save our marriage.

Seeking Professional Help for Your Relationship BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

The strongest marriages can hit a rut every now and then. Parenting differences, financial woes, lack of intimacy and dishonesty are some issues that lead a couple to slowly drift apart. Sometimes you work on it and work on it, but your marriage could still be in trouble. Marriage counseling could be the answer, but many people worry about its implications. As a therapist who has worked with many couples on their relationships, I’m here to dispel any rumors you may have heard.

Reality: Most insurance companies will pay for counseling. When you and your partner use insurance, one of you will be the “identified patient” for insurance purposes, but the counselor will treat you as a couple. Your co-pay can range between $10 and $50 per visit. If you are paying out-of-pocket, six to eight sessions may cost you $600 to $800. If that still

Myth: I did something wrong, and I know my spouse and the counselor are just going to gang up on me. Reality: Counselors do not take sides. The counselor’s role is to listen to both of you without judgment and help you find a solution. He or she will address any maladaptive behaviors that may be damaging your relationship, but rest assured there will not be any shaming or name-calling on the part of the counselor.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Myth: We’ve tried everything. Telling our problems to a counselor isn’t going to help. Reality: If you have the attitude that a counselor can’t help you, then you’re probably right. But, if you still have hope, talking to a professional who has an unbiased perspective can give you the tools you need to save your relationship.

Myth: We have a great marriage! Counseling is only for people who are on the verge of divorce. Reality: Counselors can help healthy marriages stay on track. By simply taking that extra hour a week to address any issues shows how important your relationship is to both of you. ✽

The American Association for Marriage and Family Therapy can help you find a marriage counselor in your area. Visit Aamft.org for more information.

Myth: We can’t afford marriage counseling.

seems like too much, remember you are making a huge, sometimes life-changing investment in your marriage. Still not convinced? Keep in mind, the average cost of a divorce is $20,000.

Reality: The counselor will help you figure out what is best for your relationship, even if it means divorce. Many marriage counselors will provide divorce counseling to help the family amicably separate and adjust to their new reality.

life

gr a n dp a r e n ts

Ensuring Your Tree Stands Tall: Passing Family History Down to Your Children by allen haynes

Everyone has a grandparent who likes to begin stories with, “Back in my day…." How do we make sure those stories and other family memories are passed down through the generations? Below are a few Giggle approved ways to connect with your parents and grandparents to ensure your family tree stands tall for years to come.

Start scrapbooking.

Scrapbooking is an activity the whole family can take part in, and even better, its only limitation is your imagination. A few themes to get you started are: • Heritage – Documents like birth certificates, death certificates, wedding announcements, old photos, etc., tell your family’s “when” and “where” stories.

• Immigration and migration – This is a great idea if your family has moved a lot or is scattered across the country. Use maps, passenger lists from when your ancestors came to America, expired passports and more to show the far reaches of your family tree. • School scrapbooks – Collect yearbook pages, first and last day of school photos, awards and report cards to remember treasured school days.

Preserve your photos.

It’s easy to forget about saving photos now that everything can be backed up on the Cloud, but your grandparents didn’t have iPads. Hard copy photographs can easily be destroyed by a number of factors from too much light exposure to spilled coffee. Here are a few ways to protect those memories. • According to the Photography Museum, multi-pocket album pages made of inert polypropylene instead of nonarchival PVC plastics is a great way to preserve family photos and all those loose pictures that have been stored in shoeboxes for the past decade. • Always be sure any album you purchase uses acid-free paper. Acid-free is fairly standard for most photo albums these days, but it’s important to verify.

Use your words.

One of the most common recordkeeping tactics throughout history has been journaling. It seems like nearly every month there is a news story about someone unearthing a diary from the 19th century in an attic or basement. Whether with a quill and leather journal or a brand new laptop, encourage family members to begin writing their autobiographies in the medium of their choice.

An interesting take to consider is keeping a research journal. If you’re in the process of searching for your family’s genealogy and heritage with sites like Ancestry.com, keep a record of your searches. Be sure to include all aspects of your research, from successes and failures to joys and disappointments.

Heirloom inventory.

Heirlooms are often passed down from generation to generation, but sometimes a valuable, meaningful item can end up in a yard sale and before you know it, you’re seeing it on an episode of “Antiques Roadshow” valued at a billion dollars. Admittedly, that’s a bit of an exaggeration, but it’s important to know what family artifacts you have and which ones are worth saving. A good way to create a catalog of heirlooms includes taking a photo of each item and recording the following information to complement the image: • Family member who first owned the item and family member who currently owns it • How the item came into their possession and the date it was acquired • Item’s description • Any family stories tied to the item ✽

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

life

P O W E R P A R EN T

A Joyful, Perfectly Imperfect Balance of Career and Motherhood BY DANA KAMP | Photo by ashley daniell photography

s President of Public Relations for The Zimmerman Agency (the largest PR firm in Florida), wife and mom, Kerry Watson has a very full plate. Yet, from bath time sing-alongs with her 5-year-old daughter, Annabelle, to trying new experiences while on work assignments, she has found a joyful balance in both her personal and professional life. What does your typical workday look like? If I am in town, after dropping Annabelle off at school, I hit up Dunkin Donuts for an XL coffee with extra cream. Every. Single. Day. Like most PR professionals, no day is typical. There are new initiatives, client events, crises, etc. that change every hour. Travel is an important part of my job, so Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport in Atlanta is like my second home! While I usually don’t leave the office for a leisurely hour-long lunch, I am a fast food junkie and take-out queen. Firehouse, Zaxby’s, Chick-fil-A, Momo’s and Uptown Café are a few of my go-to’s. How do you balance work life and home life? It is tough. Now with technology at our fingertips, clients expect 24/7 responses, and within minutes. I’ve found myself sometimes not 100 percent focused on Annabelle at home, and have made a conscious effort to give quality time and put the iPhone away when doing a family event. Marking important email senders as VIP in my iPhone has helped, as they pop up like text messages, eliminating the need to go into the mail app every five minutes. We all have the ability to turn routines such as bath time or grocery shopping into a fun adventure if we change our perspective and response to those events, which I try to embrace. What sacrifices/compromises have you had to make? Well, to be brutally honest, it’s been five years since I met a barbell. My husband leaves for work at the crack of dawn, which eliminates morning workouts for me since I have Annabelle. When I am in town, I’d feel too guilty going to the gym after work versus spending time with her, so I have sacrificed that aspect of my life, which I

did enjoy. However, I like to think that running through airports and chasing Annabelle through Target or Tom Brown Park (my current “exercise regimen”), while not as intense, is creative and fun, nonetheless. What advice would you give other working parents? “Don’t expect perfection” is probably the best advice I’ve both received and given. I’ve forgotten “bike day,” missed a few show-and-tells and even forgot to do Valentine’s Day cards for Annabelle’s class this past year (my excuse was we were doing a Taylor Swift “Blank Space” theme, and went with a plain white piece of paper, LOL). But each “mistake” on my end has helped her to adapt to lessthan-ideal circumstances, and tap into her creativity (e.g., borrowing the Annsworth bike on bike day or improvising a show-and-tell with what’s in the car). It is easy to get caught up in the Pinterest effect and watching what other parents do on social media, but you have to not compare yourself to others, as every family has a different situation and priorities. When and how do you make time for yourself? With traveling so much, I try and focus on time with family as much as possible while in Tallahassee. So, I am one of the contributors to the growing “Bleisure” trend, which is fitting in leisure while on business trips. Whether catching a Broadway show, zip lining over waterfalls in Panama, frolicking with flamingos in Aruba or dining at Le Cirque in NYC, I usually always manage to sneak in a little fun and a new experience while on the road. Who is your greatest inspiration? Lilly Pulitzer. Her motto is “Live a colorful life.” Not only do I love her prints, she is an example of someone who (literally) turned lemons into lemonade. With produce from the groves her husband owned, Lilly opened a juice stand in Palm Beach and designed a sleeveless shift dress made of bright, colorful printed cotton to camouflage the juice stains. After many compliments on her dresses, she began to sell them at her stand, and wound up retiring with her company exceeding $125 million in sales. She is the type of person I want to be … colorful, joyous and unpredictable with a joie de vivre for even the simple things. Who are your biggest supporters? Our agency is a fantastic support system, and my colleagues are like friends and family. Some of them have even helped with getting my daughter to school when I’m out of town! My husband, Todd, definitely has to jump in while I’m out of town and play the role of both parents, so for that I am grateful, as well as the help of parents and inlaws close by. ✽

life

LI F E S A V E R S

Make a Difference Day 2015 BY ALE RUSSIAN

October 24th is national Make a Difference Day! Focusing on improving the lives of others, the movement encourages people to get out of their comfort zone and spend the day doing work for their community. Millions of volunteers from around the country come together on the fourth Saturday of October and work with causes they care about. Participating is a wonderful way for your family to spend a day together doing something good. Here are some simple ideas! º 1 Research causes you find interesting and donate. Most charities have online donations set up. Sit with your family for a few hours and make a day of learning together. It’ll help your children get an idea of what’s out there and find something all of you care about. º 2 Donate. Make a fun day out of donating old clothes and toys. Teach your kids the importance of helping others by involving them in picking out clothes they don’t wear anymore or toys they grew out of. Have them help you take it to a local thrift store or charity that accepts donations and explain how much this helps others. Local donation sites include Goodwill, The Refuge House, Big Bend Homeless Coalition and Dress For Success.

º 4 Send love to the troops. Put a care package together for a soldier overseas. The military can be a hard concept for little ones to grasp, making it more personal and focusing on a single person will help them appreciate the work soldiers are doing. Check out operationgratitude.com for ideas on how to help.

º 6 Clean up your community.

Research your area and find out if there are any activities to help clean up or restore your community. Going out and doing work in your local area will give your kids a sense of accomplishment and let you spend a fun day together helping everyone around you.

º 5 Have fun. Reach out to fun places you frequent – like state parks – that need volunteers and have a good time. The point of Make a Difference Day is to have fun by helping others. Think of what your family enjoys and have a good time! ✽

If you have a big idea that requires more help than just your family, go to Makeadifferenceday.com to register your idea and recruit locals to help. Have fun! 14

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

º 3 Help your neighbors. Reach out to any elderly neighbors around you and see if they need help with anything for the day. Maybe help them with a garden or offer to do their groceries for the day. Your kids will love helping and learn to think of others and how they can be of use.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

k p i n m R u P ecipes s y a o D f 5 kfulne n a h T

Happy Fall!s Fabulous Face

Fall Festivals

Glamorous Gourds

n e e H a ll o w

& more!

Family Fun &

Fall Festivals by ale russian | photos by ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

The Pumpkin Patch Saturdays in October Tallahassee Heights Methodist Church 10 a.m. â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3p.m. Visitors can enjoy pony rides, bouncy houses, face painting, balloons and more. Tallyheightsumc.com

The 1930s Film Series: Frankenstein October 23 The Knott House Museum 6:30 p.m. The Knott House museum will be screening this classic for its 1930s movie series. Join John Urbancik, writer and former president of the Florida chapter of the Horror Writersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Association, as he presents the film and gives insight into it. Museumoffloridahistory.com

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Springtime Tallahassee Fall Festival November 15 Cascades Park 1 – 6 p.m. Adults: $12; Children 12 and under: $5 Enjoy two live bands, adult beverages, chicken pilau and an array of arts and crafts and activities for the kids. Springtimetallahassee.com

Tallahassee Museum’s 22nd Annual Halloween Howl October 23 and 24 Tallahassee Museum 6 – 10 p.m. Fun for all ages abounds! Enjoy a costume contest, spooky trails for the brave and non-spooky trails for the little ones, carnival games and more. There’s even a custom made Tree house filled with adventures! tallahasseemuseum.org

Ghost Walking Tours October 23 – 25 Downtown Tallahassee Hours vary This 45-minute tour takes you to all the downtown sites that are said to be haunted. Led by your trusty costumed

guide, you’ll be introduced to various characters around the city as they tell their woeful tale. Toursintallahassee.com/ ghost

The FSU Flying High Circus Halloween Haunted Harvest Performance October 23, 24, 29 FSU Flying High Circus 7 p.m. Come out for the Flying High Circus’ spooky performance and marvel at the flying skeletons overhead! Don’t get too distracted, though, or you’ll miss the zombies breaking into dance below. Circus.fsu.edu

First Presbyterian Church of Tallahassee 3rd Annual Fall Festival October 31 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Free to public Fun for the whole family! Old-fashioned carnival games, bounce house, food trucks, playground, fall photo booth, full loaded popcorn bar and more. Firstpresfallfestival.com

North Florida Fair November 5 – 15 North Florida Fairgrounds Hours vary Going strong since 1942, the North Florida Fair is back with it’s annual fall fun. The fair will feature the classics: vendors, arts and crafts, livestock show and main stage entertainment. Northfloridafair.com

Bradley’s Country Store Old Fashioned Fun Day November 21 10 a.m - 4 p.m Free parking and free admission Enjoy live music, clogging, cane grinding, syrup making, wagon rides, and a wide variety of food and arts and crafts. Special area for the kids with pony rides and a petting zoo Bradleyscountrystore.com

SPACE AVAILABLE

PHOTOS BY PATRICIA BISHOP PHOTOGRAPHY

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

This year, we put our own twist on a traditional fall staple. From easy DIY designs to putting your pumpkin to good use, we show you how to get the most out of your gourd!

CRAFTY SANS CARVING Learn how we made these fun decorative pumpkins without ever taking out our carving knife!

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Fake pumpkins make great coolers!

fresh vs. faux

Trying to decide between a real or a fake pumpkin? For your cooler and vase, either will work fine, but food should only be served in a real pumpkin. Faux pumpkins are designed for decorating and are not classified as food-safe.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

fall flowers

A small floral arrangement is a fun and easy way to add a festive touch to your home. Place a small glass or can in the middle of your hollow pumpkin and add water. Arrange your blooms so they drape over the sides and conceal the pumpkin edges.

keepin' cool

A hollowedout pumpkin makes a festive cooler for fall get-togethers! Fill it with your favorite bottled beverage and cover with ice. You can also nestle the pumpkin in its own bucket of ice to keep things extra cold.

souper idea

Leave your traditional bowls in the cupboard! This little pumpkin is the perfect hot soup holder (and means less dishes for you!) Feeding a crowd? Instead of individual bowls, hollow out a large pumpkin and serve your soup or stew from it!

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

hip harvest

For a lacy look, purchase enough lace fabric to go around your pumpkin. Cut a small hole in the middle for the stem to go through, wrap around the bottom, and secure with straight pins. Cut off any excess fabric. Add a festive bow to the top! Our edgy studded pumpkin is super easy to make! You can use an ordinary orange pumpkin or, if you're feeling feisty, spray paint it with matte black paint. Once dry, secure one end of your chosen ribbon to the bottom of the pumpkin with a straight pin. Wrap ribbon tightly up towards stem and secure with a second pin. Do this all the way around. You can use a variety of ribbons or a single color; be creative! You can find studs in the fabric department of most craft stores. They have sharp points on the back, so you can easily push them in where you want them.

creepy cute

Start our spiderweb pumpkin by printing out our template at www.gigglemag.com. Tape the template to your pumpkin and push straight pins about 2/3 of the way in where designated. When all of the pins are in, carefully remove your template. Follow our online directions to wrap your web around the pins. Tie off the end and add some spooky spiders! For our mysterious mummy, paint your pumpkin with a white matte spray paint. Cut a foam ball in half, add googly eyes, and attach using a glue gun. Wrap in layers of cheesecloth, using straight pins to secure.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

all that glitters

For a glittery gourd, start by spray painting it with a layer or two of shiny metallic gold paint. Let dry completely. Holding pumpkin by the stem, lightly spray the bottom half in a large circular motion with spray adhesive. Using a spoon, lightly spoon glitter over the sticky areas, making sure to tap the pumpkin as you go. If you don't get as much glitter as you want on the first try, don't worry! You can do 2-3 layers of spray adhesive and glitter.

To make a monogram stencil: Choose your letter and font and print out on regular white paper. Use scissors or a X-acto knife to carefully cut out your letter. Remember, you'll be using the white paper, not the printed areas. Using double-sided tape, or painter's tape if your pumpkin is painted, secure the template to the front of your pumpkin, being sure to tape down all loose edges. Lightly spray the exposed area with adhesive and spoon glitter on. When dry, carefully remove template from pumpkin.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Days of

Thankfulness BY APRIL TISHER

t is always interesting to see what responses children will come up with when asked what they are thankful for. I hold my breath hoping they will say something like “family,” but I have been on the receiving end of very profound answers like “my Legos” or “ice cream.” Is it that they aren’t really “thankful”? Not necessarily. We are living in a society where gratification is instant and being thankful can sometimes be overlooked. We teach them from an early age to say those oh-so-important words after their “please,” but sometimes it sounds more like a muffled “thanks” with marbles in their mouth than an articulated “thank you” backed with love and a sense of gratitude. In an effort to bring being thankful to the forefront of the season during your kiddo's holiday break, here are five days of ideas for you and your kiddos to share in.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Day 1: Help with Thanksgiving/Food Donation Baskets There are several ways a family can be involved in helping to provide local families with a Thanksgiving meal. Together, you can organize a food drive, make a food or a monetary donation to your local organization or help pack baskets in time for delivery. Many times, specific items are requested so that the baskets are all equal, but by having your child involved in picking out the items and physically putting the items in the donation box gives them a sense that they helped. Older children can come with you to volunteer the day the baskets are being assembled, which gives them hands on experience, or they can do extra chores around the house to earn money to purchase Publix gift cards.

interested in organizing a food drive? For more information about how to set up a drive of your own or for information on making a food or monetary donation, please contact America's Second Harvest of the Big Bend at www.fightinghunger.org.

Day 2: Volunteer Everyone could use a little help sometimes and truly thankful people know the value of passing it on. Whether donating your time to a soup kitchen or helping pick up roadside litter, volunteering as a family is a wonderful way to teach children the importance of being thankful. Volunteering doesn't have to be limited to organizations either. Look for opportunities to help out with errands or odd jobs for someone dealing with an illness. Small children can take water bottles out to the garbage truck workers during their stop, while older children can offer free babysitting services for neighbors who might need the help. You can even volunteer to help deployed troops by creating and sending a care package at Anysoldier.com.

Day 3: The Thankful Turkey Handprint This is something you can do at home that is suitable for younger children not quite ready to help with larger tasks. Simply trace your child’s hand on brown construction paper and cut it out. Then have them think of five things that they are thankful for in their life and write each one on each finger. You can paint or decorate the fingers as feathers with bright colors. Display the feathers throughout the season to remind your little ones of what they are most thankful for.

Day 4: Visit a Nursing Home

When my son was in the first grade his class took a field trip to the local nursing home to sing Christmas carols to the residents. I have never seen so many smiles, from the children and adults alike. Laura Harris, activities coordinator at an assisted living facility, says a lot of people don’t realize just how much their residents love to see children. Often their own families cannot come to visit and children bring them a lot of joy. Handmade crafts or notes of thanks go a long way. Be sure to check prior to going to see what is allowed and if residents have restrictions.

Day 5: Create a Thankful Jar This is a very simple, yet effective, project you can do at home with even the youngest of children. Using a Mason jar or empty jelly jar, create your “thankful jar”; let the children finger paint and stick some of their favorite stickers on it. Each day during the month of October have family members write down what they are thankful for and place them in the jar. During the month of November, open the jar and read one each day as a family. This can be done all year long. ✽

DIY COSTUMES

Fantastic

Faces

bewitching butterfly

fearsome frankenstein

Easily turn your sweet girl into this winged wonder with a little face paint flair.

Frankenstein doesn’t have to be scary where his make-up is concerned!

1. Swipe your face paint color of choice onto the eyelids and cheeks. We used a Snazaroo face paint kit, which is water-based and comes off super easily. Colorful eye shadow would work as well. You can customize your color palette based on your child's costume. 2. Using the white face paint, use your brush to paint lines, swirls, and dots. A thin pointy brush works best. Face Paint Hack #1: Use the opposite end of the paintbrush to make perfectly round dots—dip it into the paint and press lightly onto the skin.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

1. Use a green eye shadow to cover entire face.We used Sephora Collection in Grass Green Shimmer and Citrus Glitter. Make sure to cover some of the neck as well. 2. Using a face paint kit or a black eyeliner, draw on thick eyebrows and create a new hairline. 3. For the final touch, paint the lips black and extend a thin line out on each side, followed by thin line “laces.”

Snazaroo Face Painting Palette Kit, 12.99. Snazaroo.com and Michaels. Available in a variety of colors and styles.

The best costumes are all about the makeup! Check out our whimsical designs and quick tips to create winning looks for your little ones. The best part? You don't have to be a professional for these easy painting projects! CREATIVE AND INSTRUCTION BY KELLY GOEDE | PHOTOS BY LIFEPRINTS PHOTOGRAPHY

Perfect for even the most creativity challenged mamas!

darling doll

swashbuckling pirate

Recreate this adorable ragdoll face with a little help from mom's makeup bag.

Just a little bit of costume makeup is needed for this rugged adventurer of the high-seas.

1. Start with a thick swirl of blush on the apples of her cheeks. 2. Use a dark pink lip liner or face paint to outline the bow of her mouth and pull out the "line" on either side. Fill in with a light pink lipstick. 3. Black eyeliner is used to add freckle dots and long eyelashes.

1. Use a cotton ball swirled in the black face paint to create five-o-clock shadow. 2. Use a dry blush brush dipped in the black to create “stubble,” stippling it over the five-o-clock shadow and creating the illusion of beard hairs. 3. Use a thin paintbrush or black eyeliner to draw a scar and thicken the eyebrows.

Face Paint Hack #2: When using eyeliner to make eyelashes, don't have the painted lashes go all the way to the eye. This can make the eye makeup look very thick and gunky. Instead, draw 3-4 small lines to indicate lashes.

➜ WANT TO COMPLETE THE COSTUMES? Visit gigglemag.com to learn how! gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

pumpkin chip bread

with cream cheese icing Ingredients 1 box Spice Cake mix 1 cup milk chocolate chips ½ cup dark chocolate chips 1 - 15 ounce can of canned pumpkin (not pie filling) 1 cup water Cream cheese frosting ½ cup chopped walnuts Preheat oven to 350 F. Mix pumpkin, water and spice cake mix; do not add eggs or oil. Fold in all chocolate chips; making sure to mix in well. Bake for 15-20 minutes. Let cool slightly. Remove from pan. When fully cooled, top with cream cheese frosting and sprinkle with walnuts.

pumpkin-pecan cream cheese dip Ingredients 8 ounces cream cheese 2 cups granulated sugar ¼ cup light brown sugar 1 can pumpkin pie filling ¾ teaspoon cinnamon V teaspoon nutmeg ¾ cup chopped pecans Blend cream cheese, brown sugar and granulated sugar with a hand mixer. Fold in pumpkin pie filling, cinnamon and nutmeg. Chill in refrigerator for one hour. Top with chopped pecans. Serve with pretzels, apple slices and graham crackers. 30

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

pumpkin party

snacks roasted

pumpkin seeds Ingredients 1 K cups pumpkin seeds 2 teaspoons melted butter Salt to taste Preheat oven to 300 F. Wash pumpkin seeds. Toss seeds with melted butter and salt. Spread in a single layer on a cookie sheet. Bake for about 45 minutes, tossing occasionally, until golden brown. Giggle Tip: Try adding one of these seasonings to your pumpkin seeds: garlic salt · seasoned salt · cajun seasoning chili powder · curry powder · cinnamon & sugar

n keep it o Trying to e? Skip sid the light cheese m the crea g. Still a in t s o fr at! tasty tre

Everything you need to know about preparing for...

the holiday card

photo shoot BY NICOLE IRVING And allison raber

The Challenge: To capture your entire family with the perfect smile, perfect outfit, in the perfect setting for this years perfect holiday card. Do you accept or do you run for the hills screaming? As the holiday season approaches, I imagine that many mamas are already creating Pinterest boards full of outfit inspiration and pose ideas, while simultaneously biting that freshly painted manicure to shreds in anticipation over getting just the right photo. I have been there and done that. In this industry, my art director and I organize, plan, and bear witness to 20-30 photo sessions a year. Because of our experience, we have learned some valuable dos and don'ts when it comes to planning a foolproof photo shoot. Planning ahead • DO make sure to contact your photographer as early as possible. Remember, everyone else is trying to get on their appointment book as well.

• •

• • •

The perfect outfit • DO start at least one month out and search the web, online stores and sites like Pinterest for inspiration. You can start with a mental list of what you have and expand on your options from there. Shop your closet first and then borrow.

• • •

DON'T invite an allergic episode. If you know your kiddo is allergic to hay, do not shoot at a farm, no matter how cute the set up is. All you will have is a miserable kid and miserable mommy.

•

DO bring snacks and water, their lovey and some healthy "bribes". A hungry kiddo is miserable. Good snack options are crackers, pretzels or dry cereal. Avoid anything sticky, sweet, or RED.

•

DO pack extra pacifiers, diapers, wipes and a bib. Bibs will catch the drool and any crumbs that your little one might come in contact with on the way to the shoot. Be prepared for anything. DO bring a helper, but not too many. An extra pair of hands, whether grandma, an aunt or friend, can help out with extra nose wiping, drool catching and running after the one who got away. However, too many helpers can get in the way. DON'T force it. Know your children's limits and tell photographer ahead of time. It is not worth stressing out your child for one photo. If they have a melt down – and trust me, they might – your best bet is to stop and either reschedule or work with what you have.

DO make sure to try on all outfits ahead of time to ensure everything fits. There is nothing worse than too-short pants and overly tight shirts. DO iron, hem and fit at least one week before. DON'T go matchy-matchy. The goal is to coordinate, not clone. Gone are the days of matching white shirts and khaki pants on the beach. Use a good balance of solids and patterns. We usually recommend no more than 1-2 coordinating patterns per family. DO use accessories to show off each personality. Hats, suspenders, jewelry, jackets and scarves all add a touch of personality and whimsy to the photos. Take a few photos without the accessories for a variety of choices. DON'T try a drastic new haircut/style right before the shoot. You want to feel comfortable and if a new look still feels a bit foreign, it will show.

The shoot • DON'T forsake the candid photos. A few posed formal shots are a great idea, but don't forget to laugh and let your family's personality shine!

• •

DO bring props! A snuggly blanket, cup of hot cocoa or an antique chair can all be incorporated for unique family photos. Use your imagination! DON'T stress if the kids aren't cooperating. Some of the most memorable holiday photos are the ones where the kids are having a meltdown. Laugh it off, and try again next year! ✽ Send your funniest holiday card outtakes to nicole@irvingpublications.com for a chance to win a $20 Target gift card! gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

health

g e t h e a lt h y

Steering Clear of Fall Allergies BY ARIANA BRASMAN

As we enter into the fall season, we expect cooler temperatures and changing leaves, but something that is often overlooked is the onset of fall allergies. In the Southeast, fall allergies usually begin in the middle of August and subside in November.

Giggle Tip: To check the pollen count in your area, visit Weather.com and enter your zip code.

The most common and potent allergy during fall season is ragweed, said Dr. Ron Saff, an assistant clinical professor of medicine at Florida State University College of Medicine. However, the types of allergies present in the fall may vary depending on what area of the country you live, he added.

It’s in the air … and possibly on your table or on your pet

Besides ragweed, other common allergies that arise in the fall are lamb’s quarters, pigweed, sheep sorrel, sagebrush, careless weed and dog fennel. Dr. John D. Harwick, assistant professor in the department of Otolaryngology and medical director of the UF Health Outpatient ENT Clinics, explained that the pollen from the weeds gets distributed through the air up to 400 miles, and pollen count is at its highest on dry, windy days. On wet days the count is considerably lower. You can check pollen counts online to learn about your local pollen levels. Some individuals might not know that there’s a cross reaction between bananas, melons, zucchini, chamomile and fall weed allergies. Those with these food allergies may also suffer fall inhalant allergies, said Harwick.

For example, if a classroom has a hamster or gerbil, allergen proteins lie inside the animal’s urine, Saff said. If the urine is present in the classroom, the children can breathe it in, causing their allergies to act up. For safety purposes, Saff discourages having pets inside the classroom.

Ragweed can cause hay fever symptoms such as sneezing, itchy eyes and a runny nose, Saff said. Other symptoms some experience are watery eyes, post-nasal drip and nasal congestion. According to Saff, the best ways to treat fall allergies are to keep the car and house windows closed with the air conditioning on, as well as showering and changing your clothes when you return home from being outside, so the pollen doesn’t spread. “An additional allergy avoidance measure would be to wear sunglasses when outside,” Saff suggested. Saff advises people suffering from allergies to try nasal steroids like Nasacort, over-the-counter medications or nonsedating antihistamines such as Claritin. If these steps do not help clear up the allergies, the best option is to schedule an allergy skin test with a board-certified allergist to identify the allergens causing the reaction. Following the skin test, patients can choose to join an allergy vaccination program, which is a series of shots designed to treat allergies.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

“An allergy vaccination program is usually for the most severe patients in town, and is extremely effective,” Saff said. “70 percent of allergy patients who get allergy shots receive improvement in their symptoms. The allergy medications offer a Band-Aid while the allergy shots offer a chance for a cure by improving patients immune system,” he explained. ✽

did know? • According to the CDC, 17.6 million adults and 6.6 million children suffered from fall allergies in the United States during 2012. • Allergies are the most common cause of asthma, Harwick noted. • Some allergy sufferers receive allergy injections as part of their treatment. Allergy injections alter the body’s immune system so that the allergen is no longer recognized as foreign. Please consult your doctor for specific care and treatment for you or your children.

Allergies can sometimes become evident when children return to school, where they are sitting in a classroom, eating lunch in a cafeteria or around a class pet.

On your way to feeling better

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

health 8 Beauty Treats for Beautiful Fall Skin

get pretty

BY DANA KAMP

Does your skin feel like it needs a little something? Hydration? Nourishment? Radiance? Refresh and restore your skin with one of these soothing sprays, oils and mists.  Clinique Moisture Surge Face Spray Thirsty Skin Relief - Bursting with moisture and active aloe, but not a drop of oil, this spray replenishes skin's moisture level, softening and soothing in a flash. Available at FragranceNet.com; $32.99.  jane iredale POMMISST Hydration Spray - A facial spritz with the added benefit of pomegranate extract, a powerful antioxidant and UV protector that calms, soothes and aids in hydration for all skin types. Available at janeiredale.com; $27.  G.M. Collin Oxygen Puractive+ Treating Mist Lightweight and free of pore-clogging additives, this purifying and soothing spray is best suited for oily skin types. Mist it on for a matte finish and softer complexion. Available at Skin1.com; $35.

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

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 suki® hydrating body oil - A 100 percent toxin-free luxurious 3-in-1 treatment (moisturizer, bath oil and massage oil) that moisturizes without a greasy feel and absorbs quickly to add a dewy glow to skin. Available at sukiskincare.com; $27.95.  Caudalie Premier Cru L’Elixir - Stabilized Vine Resveratrol, Viniferine and Grape Seed Polyphenol combine with five anti-aging oils to correct dark spots, restore skin density and smooth wrinkles. Available at US.Caudalie.com and Sephora; $99.  L’Oréal Paris Age Perfect Cell Renewal Facial Oil An advanced facial oil that is formulated with lipohydroxy acid and light essential oils. Wrinkles are visibly reduced, and skin feels smoother, softer, firmer and more resilient. Available at lorealparisusa.com and chain drug, food and mass market retailers; $24.99.

 Urban Decay Makeup Setting Sprays Developed in an exclusive partnership with SKINDINÄVIA, these light-as-air setting sprays mist on weightlessly to help prevent makeup from cracking, fading or settling into fine lines. Choose from three high-tech formulas: All Nighter, DeSlick and Chill. Available at Sephora, ULTA, select Macy’s stores, Beauty.com and UrbanDecay.com; $30.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Product images courtesy of Alison Brod PR.

 Caudalie Beauty Elixir - Incorporates rosemary essential oil, lemon balm, peppermint, orange blossom, rose and grape pulp for amazing skin benefits. Can also be sprayed on top of makeup throughout the day and makes a wonderful aftershave for men. Available at Sephora and US.Caudalie.com; $48 for 3.4 ounces and $18 for 1 ounce.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

ro ots of success G R O W I NG U P I N T A L L A H A S S EE AN D C R EA T I NG A D R EA M O F T H E I R O W N

Following their dreams led them to other cities, but these four women never forgot their hometown. Here they share a glimpse into their world, both as moms and successful entrepreneurs, and how their beloved hometown has helped shape them into who they are today.

Katie Linogon Owner of The Blue Hen www.bluehenshop.com

In her own words...

Photos submitted by Katie Linogon.

Calling Tampa my home always takes me a minute because my roots lie in Tallahassee. I was born and raised in Tallahassee and Kyle, my husband, and I met my freshman year at Florida State University. This is where my family started. Now that we reside in Tampa, we love to come back to visit my family, cheer on our beloved Noles and stop in for a quick bite at Hopkins. I love that you can go anywhere in Tallahassee and always see someone you know; the small town feel is something I miss. I like to think I got my start in the fashion industry when my two siblings and I would model for Gap Kids at the Governor Square Mall. I studied fashion merchandising at FSU and went straight into the corporate retail industry, working at The Home Shopping Network in the Tampa Bay area. I worked 10 great years in merchandising and planning and loved my job. I learned everything I know today from some of the most prestigious professionals in the industry. However, I

realized that I wanted more of a balanced life with my children and, in turn, needed to do something where I could have the best of both worlds. That was the start of The Blue Hen, an online boutique with a personal shopping feel. A destination to find one of a kind, hand picked pieces and gifts. I love working one-on-one with customers from all over the United States. Being a mom of three children (Hagen is 4, Halle is 2 and Halston is 5 months) and a business owner definitely has itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s perks, but running my own business is not always the most glamorous. Some days, I find myself feeding a newborn, dressing dolls with my 2-year-old and playing monster trucks with my son, all while working around them. Every day, I wear all the different hats it takes to run a business â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from shipping and ordering to social media. Having a supportive husband and help from others makes this business run. It definitely takes a village. I love that I can be in a career I'm passionate about while spending every moment with my children. My daughter gets excited when a new shipment arrives; in fact, you will probably see her modeling in photos along the way. Featured on: The Today Show

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Owner of heirloomed

www.heirloomedcollection.com

In her own words... I have people tell me all the time that the people they know from Tallahassee are some of the best folks and I could not agree more. I was born and raised in Tallahassee and lived there until I graduated from college. It is a wonderful place to grow up and the friends I made there are still my dearest friends today. It’s a supportive and collaborative city, and a great balance of city and country living. My Southern roots have been a strong influence on my business and product design. When I first started my business (as IceMilk Aprons) nearly 10 years ago, I was early in my professional career and it started as a side project and labor of love. It began as a way to spend more time with my grandmother, who lived in Tallahassee at the time. I drove back and forth frequently to visit her and my mom, dropping off fabrics and picking up new batches of aprons – which my grandmother sewed by hand – and working with her on new product designs. We have now been in business for nearly 10 years. We have been fortunate

BETH ROBERTSON Owner of SHADES

www.shadeskids.com

In her own words...

Today I reside in Atlanta, Georgia with my husband Shane, and our three children - Wyatt (3 ½), Sawyer (1 ½) and Waylon (1 month), and our dog Kona. My mom still lives in Tallahassee and we love to visit and see old friends, and share the things that I grew up doing with my family. We look forward to visits to the Junior Museum, Wakulla Springs, St. George and Bradley’s Country Store, and enjoying mom’s home cooked meals. I’d love to make it for Springtime Tallahassee and an FSU football game so my children can share in those experiences as well. Featured IN: O The Oprah Magazine, Food Network, Elle Decoration, Southern Living, Better Homes & Gardens, with a product design named a "Top 8 Holiday Gift" by Martha Stewart

a stay at home mom. My son Cooper was born in 2010. I loved being a stay at home mom, but after a few years I was ready for something else. I had never really considered myself an exceptionally crafty or creative person but all of a sudden found myself starting on one project after another. I was at a dinner party and struck up a conversation with Guy and Ann Moore, the owners of the Garnet and Gold stores in Tallahassee. Ann complimented me on the way that I dress my children and asked where I shopped, especially for game day attire. She had noticed a trend in the game day apparel. People were getting more dressed up than dressed down to attend

Photos submitted by Beth Robertson.

I was born and raised in Tallahassee where my parents owned their own company, Arnold Design and Construction. My mother was a residential architect and my father had a career as a realtor and general contractor. I attended Maclay School and graduated from FSU in 2004 with BA's in English and history. I went back to attain my masters in elementary education in 2007. I married my husband, Norman, in 2006 and taught third and fourth grade until 2008 when my daughter Lila Grace was born and I made the choice to become

enough to catch the attention of some celebrity favorites – Martha Stewart and Oprah Winfrey to name a few – early on in our career, which has helped lend credibility and exposure to the company. And the momentum has continued; this year we rebranded and made the transition from IceMilk Aprons to heirloomed. This shift allows us to continue to diversify our product mix, while continuing to stay true to the concept that has been the foundation for all of our designs from the beginning.

Photos submitted by Ashley Schoenith.

ASHLEY SCHOENITH

Photos by Caroline Wasko Photography

games. Dressier outfits in the college colors had become very popular. They were just about to open a new location next on the north side of town, and were looking to add a few more upscale options. They suggested I make or bring in some items that I would purchase for my own children. I instantly fell in love with the idea of designing and creating children's clothes. Like many other moms in Tallahassee, I loved to dress my children in more traditional, southern styles. However, I had began to feel as if I was purchasing the same things over and over again each year. I wanted to be able to add a little something different without losing the traditional charm and elegance. I enthusiastically accepted this offer and went home ready to get started on my new project. I, however, had one very large obstacle to overcome first: I did not know how to sew nor did I own a sewing machine. Determined to learn, I borrowed a sewing machine from a friend, watched several sewing tutorials on YouTube, learned the basics and got busy. I put together sixteen garnet and gold outfits. We put them out in one of the Garnet and Gold locations and sold them all. A few weeks later, I met with Garnet and Gold's buying team to present some sample designs for the upcoming football season. They picked their favorites and ordered an entire collection for that season. I was fortunate enough to quickly find a factory in the United States to produce the items for me and with that, Shades Kids was born. Shades Kids now offers complete children's collections each season for newborn sizes up to 9/10 as well as a complete collection of backpacks, lunchboxes and travel luggage, the majority of which can be personalized I create all of the appliques from fabric scraps, sew them together and then send them to a factory to have them made. While most appliqued clothing is made from mass produced digital designs, ours are exclusively made for us, handsewn and can only be purchased through our website. Since the start of Shades Kids, we have relocated to Sarasota, FL for a promotion for my husband. Growing up in Tallahassee influenced my style and helped me be creative and create my signature brand. Tallahassee has strong, southern history and charm, which is exactly what I want to translate into my designs.

mckay pittman Owner of Oatmeal Lace www.oatmeallace.com

In her own words... I was born and raised in Tallahassee and attended Florida State University (Go Noles!). After college I moved to Colorado for a few fabulous years before trekking back to Florida and setting up shop in sunny Tampa with my sweet family. Recently we moved to Chicago, which is a complete change from the South, but we are embracing it and enjoying every moment that isn't freezing cold. I didn't really tap into my creative side while living in Tallahassee, but I was lucky to have grown up with strong female role models in my life, and I attribute much of my success to them. I'm named after my mom and grandmother, who are both impressive in front of a sewing machine and even better in front of a stove. I guess I've inherited some of their talent in the sewing arena but definitely lack their finesse in the kitchen (apologies to my family!) I started Oatmeal Lace with weddings in mind, and its primary focus has been creating handmade clutches & monogrammed bouquet wraps for brides-to-be and their bridal parties. I feel honored to do what I do because ultimately I'm being entrusted to create

an heirloom item that brides choose to use on their most special day. The more recent launch of our customized vendor apron line has been an added bonus to why I love what I do â&#x20AC;&#x201C; there is so much talent and creativity in the wedding industry; it's exciting to be a part of it all. My husband Joey and I went to Lincoln High School together and randomly reconnected 10 years later in Tampa after we both moved there. Our family recently grew by one â&#x20AC;&#x201C; we have a 4-year-old son, Beckett, and our daughter, Emerson, is two months. There are many things I love when I come home to visit but visiting my childhood home is number one. My parents still live in the house I grew up in so I love that I get to actually come "home." And don't even get me started on all my favorite places to eat! La Fiesta, Gordo's, Hopkins, Momo's â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they all bring me back to different stages of life in Tallahassee. During the fall, FSU football is the best. Sadly, this will be the first year we haven't made it back for a game. It's true that absence makes the heart grow fonder, because I miss my hometown more and more each year that I'm gone. Featured IN: Southern Weddings and The Knot

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

forks & spoons

lunch box

Fresh Flavors of Fall BY JESSICA KERR

We all know that fruits and vegetables are vital in keeping children healthy and happy. However, teaching your child about the benefits of eating seasonal fruits and vegetables can not only cultivate a love for essential nutrition, but can also freshen up a mundane lunch box.

APPLES

GRAPES

• Smear peanut butter in between two thick slices of apple for a fresh and crisp take on the classic lunchbox staple.

• Skewer whole grapes, pepperoni slices and cheese cubes for a colorful play on a healthy lunch item.

• Roll up a slice of apple and a piece of cheese in a piece of turkey for a handheld wrap full of protein and flavor.

• Make ahead chicken salad loaded with sliced grapes for an all week easy grab and go item.

DELICATA SQUASH

CARROTS

• Shred ahead carrots to add to wraps, sandwiches and salads throughout the week.

PEAR

FIGS

• Sprinkle dried cranberries on a turkey sandwich and replace mayo with a mild, spreadable cheese. The flavors compliment one another while cutting down on calories and fat.

• Pear and cheese quesadillas are a great way to introduce a fun new combo in a familiar way.

• Pack a bento box of figs, honey, granola, and almonds for a deconstructed and fresh trail mix experience.

• Make cranberry oatmeal bars to serve as a lunchbox item or an afterschool treat.

BUTTER LETTUCE

• Add diced pear to your child's favorite savory sandwich for a sweet surprise.

BEETS

• Slice figs vertically, then top with cream cheese and crushed nuts.

BRUSSELS SPROUTS

• Shred Brussels sprouts • Beet Chips are thinly and toss with dried sliced beets, coated cranberries, cooked in olive oil. Toss sliced quinoa and a sweet beets in extra-virgin vinaigrette for a olive oil. Create a seasonal, hearty version single layer of beets on of a quinoa salad! a cookie sheet. Bake • Include a delicata • Brussels sprouts are for 30-40 minutes at • Make a salad of butter squash muffin as the easily incorporated into 350 F, turning halfway lettuce and include treat portion of lunch. soups and stews. Try through. Sprinkle with seasonal fruits, like Slightly milder than making hearty Brussels sea salt and pack in a apples and pears, cheese pumpkin muffins, it sprouts and sausage baggie for a fabulous fall and nuts. Toss with a actually contains more soup. Recipe found at alternative to processed sweet vinaigrette. The nutrients. Recipe at www.myrecipes.com potato chips. sweet and salty taste www.muffintinmania.com of this salad is sure to surprise any picky eater!

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

• Substitute butter lettuce for a flour wrap. Include ingredients that your child is familiar with on the inside of the wrap and secure with a toothpick.

• Slice colorful carrots and pack throughout the week with different types of dips and hummus.

• Puree roasted squash with cream and cinnamon for a hearty soup. Store in an insulated thermos to ensure warmth until lunchtime.

CRANBERRIES

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‘cause I’m HAPPY to highly recommend The Prestige Infant-only seats can only be used rear-facing. Gallery. I have LOVED buying cars from Prestige over the car seats typically have Convertible and All-in-one higherFUN. heightPrestige and weight limits for the rear-facing years; there’s no pressure and it’s always position, allowing you to keep your child rear-facing is a GREAT dealership!

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X U R Y AU TO M reaches O B I L E S the top height or weight limit allowed by your car seat’s manufacturer. JulieLUConnell Julie Connell

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LU X U R Y AU TO M O B I L E S

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Locally Owned for 30 Years

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learn

IN T HE C LA S S R O O M

Recognizing Red Ribbon Week by april tisher

Since its inception in 1985, the red ribbon has been a symbol of bringing awareness of drug use in America to the forefront of people's minds. Communities started wearing the red ribbon in response to the unfortunate death of DEA Agent Enrique Camarena in Mexico during a drug siege. Following this incident, concerned parents and youth in communities across the country began wearing red ribbons as a symbol of their commitment to be drug free. Three years later, The National Family Partnership celebrated its first National Red Ribbon Celebration which has grown into what we now know as "Red Ribbon Week."

Sherry Whiddon, Deerlake Beta Club Sponsor, says they use Red Ribbon Week to bring awareness to a healthy lifestyle without drugs or alcohol use. This

23rd - 31st

According to the official Red Ribbon Campaign website, children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42 percent less likely to use drugs than those who don't, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations. year the club is sponsoring a video contest where members make a short video related to the theme for Red Ribbon Week: Respect yourself ~ Be Drug free. The winning video will be shown school wide during homeroom. In addition the club sponsors “Put A Cap on Drugs” day. Students may purchase a special Red Ribbon Week sticker to wear a hat at school all day. This is a very popular event. These two initiatives are springboards to conversations to bring awareness about the hazards of drug use. The Beta members are excited to bring awareness and encourage the Deerlake students to honor their minds and bodies by making healthy choices. According to the RedRibbon.org website, children of parents who talk to their teens regularly about drugs are 42 percent less likely to use drugs than those who don't, yet only a quarter of teens report having these conversations. In addition to the pledge the children make, there is also a pledge for parents. We can set the example to the young people in our life by living drug free, by talking to them and answering their questions about drugs and by monitoring them and setting rules for them to follow. The more we are involved with our children, the less likely they will be involved in drugs. ✽

Red Ribbon Week Student Pledge

I pledge to grow up safe, healthy and drug-free by: • Understanding the dangers of drug use and abuse. • Respecting myself and being drug free. • Spreading the word to family and friends about the importance of being healthy and drug free. In addition to the pledge the children make, there is also a pledge for parents.

For more information about the Red Ribbon Campaign, talk to your school counselor and visit www.redribbon.org

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Different schools have different ways to commemorate the week and the way the information is presented is varied by the age of the students. At the middle school level the information increases. This is a critical time to talk to kids about drugs and what to do if someone they know is involved. Some schools hold door decorating contests relating to the theme and introduce social media tips to make their pledge to remain drug free a public one. There are contests through the Red Ribbon’s Universal Campaign that award prizes for a photo showing anti-drug décor as well as coming up with the following year’s theme.

October

learn

F A M ILY LEA R NIN G

10 Hobbies to Do as a Family BY LISA KATZ

Whether you have young children or teenagers, it is always nice to be able to do things together as a family. In order to make this happen, some parents create an official “family night,” while others carve out time for family fun when the schedule allows. We all know families get busy and life can seem crazy. Having a family hobby ensures that you set aside time to truly be together, have fun and learn something too. A group hobby carries several great benefits. One of the best reasons to have a family hobby is the fact that you’ll be creating amazing memories from the experience. Another great benefit is that a hobby is a true break from your typical routine. It is a designated time to focus entirely on each other and on the activity at hand.

There are many potential hobbies that your family may enjoy. They can be indoors or outdoors, active or calm. The important factor to remember is that it should be whatever works best for your family. Ideally, it should be something you all look forward to and will give you the feeling that you gain something by participating.

Try one of these with your family:

1. Learn a musical instrument. 2. Bike the local trails. 3. Go fishing and catch your dinner! 4. Take golf lessons. 5. Exercise (running, yoga, etc.) together. 6. Sign up for a cooking class. 7. Find a geocache on a geocaching adventure. 8. Attend local sporting events, such as college, prep or little league.

9. Hike our area’s nature spots. 10. Register for a painting, pottery or art class. Hobbies are a real opportunity to step away from your busy life and boost your quality family time. They are a perfect means to genuinely bond with your kids. And the good news is you do not have to limit your family to just one hobby; there are plenty of choices to explore for years and years! ✽

WEBSITES TO GET YOU STARTED: Bike trails: Mapmyride.com/us/tallahassee-fl/ Fishing spots: Hookandbullet.com/c/fishing-tallahassee-fl/ Local cooking classes: Brownskitchen.com, Tallahasseecakeshop.com, Soulvegtallahassee.com, Campusrec.fsu.edu, Publix.com Hiking trails and paths: Floridahikes.com/tallahassee Painting, art or ceramic classes: Brushandpalette.com, Lemoyne.org, Paintingwithatwist.com Geocaching: Geocaching.com Extra hobby options: Visittallahassee.com gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

conception2college™

 expecting Pregnancy Problems: Common or Time to Call the Doc?

 infant | 0-1 The Truth About Teething

 toddler | 2-3 The Picky Predicament

 early years | 4-5 Keeping the Peace

 kids | 6-9 Putting Verbal Disrespect to Rest

Photo by Terri Smith Photo

 tweens | 10-13 Volunteering Opportunities for Tweens

 teens | 14-18 College Campus Visits: What to Know Before You Go

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

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expecting Pregnancy Problems: Common or Time to Call the Doc? pr e g n a n c y

BY DANIELLE PASTULA

Call your Doc: According to Dr. Dorothy White, a board certified OBGYN at Tallahassee Memorial Healthcare, if you start to experience bouts of vomiting that last all day or several days and begins to cause dehydration and weight loss, you’ll want to call your doctor.

Bleeding

What’s Normal: Bleeding of any kind is not normal; however, spotting, especially within the first trimester, is common. As long as spotting is lighter than a light version of your period and isn’t occurring over any extended period of time, this isn’t something to raise high alarm, although you’ll still want to mention in to your doctor. Call your Doc: If you start to experience bleeding of any kind at any point within your pregnancy, you’ll want to call your doctor or go to the emergency room immediately as this could mean a number of issues such as ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage, or placental abruption, which is the separation of the placenta from the uterus wall. In this definition, bleeding constitutes needing a pad to keep the blood from soaking through your clothing.

Headaches

What’s Normal: If you’re already prone to tension headaches due to hormones, stress, hunger, tiredness, etc., expect that to continue with even a little more discomfort. If you’re not used to that, don’t be alarmed – headaches are common – and, thankfully, there’s a number of things you can do to help relieve your headache symptoms.

Expecting mamas have a lot to be excited about, but it’s the first timers who might be feeling a little uneasy...literally. Because whether you’re an aunt to many, or a you’ve experienced a number of friends in the various stages of their pregnancies, you can’t truly get an idea of what happens to your body until you go through it yourself. Sure you know about potential morning sickness and cravings, but how will you know what’s normal versus what’s not? Here’s a quick guide to keep in mind if you’re going through these common pregnancy ailments:

Morning Sickness

What’s Normal: Symptoms of nausea and vomiting usually kick in around four weeks and will end around the time you enter your second trimester.

Call your Doc: “In cases where patients have chronic headaches, this needs to be addressed with their doctor from the beginning of the pregnancy,” Dr. White said. “However, if you’re experiencing new onset of severe, persistent headaches in pregnancy you need to seek medical attention immediately.” Overall, no matter what pregnancy symptom you’re facing, Dr. White explains that you should contact your doctor if any of your symptoms become persistent, severe, or begin leading to other concerns in your pregnancy. ✽ Immediately refer to your doctor regarding your personal symptoms and if you have any medical questions at any time during your pregnancy.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

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infant

ages 0-1

The Truth About Teething by Allison Mcalhany, ARNP

Teething is a natural process by which your little one’s teeth erupt through the gums beginning sometime around 6 months of age. The age of onset of teething can range from 4-12 months. Generally the bottom middle teeth (central incisors) erupt first. This is followed by the middle and lateral upper incisors several weeks later. Babies’ responses to this teething process can be as different as the personalities of the babies themselves. Some infants will not show any symptoms of the tooth eruption and the parent seems surprised at the check-up when we mention that a tooth is poking through the gum. Many parents however have a different experience and the symptoms associated with teething can range from mild fussiness to less than a great night’s sleep for many nights in a row. Ultimately every baby goes through this process, so helping to relieve the symptoms becomes the focus of many parents during this fun time of infancy.

Drooling is frequently associated with teething and it may be helpful to have a bib so that his neck doesn’t stay wet, leading to an ideal environment for rashes to develop. Occasionally the baby’s appetite may be affected if his gums are sensitive. Be sure to offer soft foods if your baby seems affected and ensure adequate hydration.

Just when you think teething is complete, you may suddenly have your 2-year-old putting his hands in his mouth. Remember that there are molars that erupt at approximately 2 years old, 6 years old and then again at 12, and finally the wisdom teeth at approximately 18 years of age to complete the set. Don't forget to begin brushing those little teeth as soon as they erupt to keep them clean and healthy. ✽

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

{ Teething Checklist} Teething aid Wet refrigerated or frozen washcloths are a good and readily available option. Bibs Babies will drool buckets, so save their cute outfits and keep them dry during this time by carrying lots of bibs. Change regularly as the moisture can cause discomfort. Pain Reliever Recommended if child can not be comforted by other means, but generally Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen are given to children over 6 months of age. (Always check with your care provider prior to giving your child any medications.)

Toothbrush As soon as the little teeth start coming in and popping to the surface, it is important to have children's tooth brushes on hand. Patience And lots of it. Babies will be cranky and miserable. Remember, this too shall pass!

Along with gaining new milestones including crawling, pulling to a stand and cruising, your child may often put his hand in his mouth to help soothe his gums. We recommend using a cool to cold gentle teething aid such as a wet refrigerated or frozen washcloth or one of the many available teething aids available for purchase. This allows babies to chew on something other than their hands and the cold can help soothe the gums.

Fevers are greatly debated as being caused by teething and we generally do not see teething as the cause of a true fever of greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit. If your child is not eating well, has a fever and is very fussy, don’t assume teething is to blame as several viral and bacterial infections also have the same symptoms. We would recommend a visit to your primary care provider if these symptoms last more than 48 hours, or sooner if associated with an ill-appearing or dehydrated child. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) or ibuprofen (Advil or Motrin) is often used for discomfort of teething, however this can mask a true fever so we recommend only using it if the child is not able to be comforted with other methods. We do not recommend ibuprofen in an infant of less than 6 months of age.

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toddler

ages 2-3 the typical sandwich by offering other varieties of bread, such as whole wheat and Ezekiel.

“I want cupcakes!" Hide nutrition in your child’s sweet tooth! Make healthy muffins with bananas, squash, carrots and eggs. Top with sweetened cream cheese “icing;” you can even add a little natural food coloring to make it more appetizing. Chocolate zucchini bread and oatmeal flaxseed cookies are also kid favorites.

“I don't like green food."

Pick your child’s favorite color and create a meal around it. Take your child to the grocery store, specifically the produce section, and have him choose food in the color of his choice. Purple plums and eggplant, orange carrots and pumpkin, yellow squash and bananas can all create a colorful plate.

“I just want to play!"

The Picky Predicament BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

When we start our families, we imagine dinnertime being a relaxing experience with pleasant conversation. If you are the parent of a picky eater, though, it is anything but. In the book “Helping Your Child with Extreme Picky Eating,” authors Katja Rowell and Jenny McGlothlin empathize with such families. In fact, they note that 10 to 15 percent of American children have feeding challenges, some more extreme than others. It’s not unusual if your toddler is suddenly pushing her plate away. Toddlers typically experience a phase of suspicion with new and even familiar foods. Here are some tips to make mealtime a little easier.

“I don't like red sauce! " We hear this often in my house, and apparently it’s pretty common. A child who loves pizza, but doesn’t like tomato sauce on his spaghetti? Add some nutrition to those buttered noodles by sprinkling cheese and a bit of nutritional

yeast, a significant source of B-complex. A mommy friend told me her “cheesy noodles” were the hit of neighborhood kids who were otherwise averse to the kind their moms made!

Is your child playing with his food? Redirect him with a food-related story. Read “Green Eggs and Ham,” and then cook up your own version. I’ve done this a few times for my kids, and it was a hit! “If You Give a Pig a Pancake” is another cute book, and you can make pancakes in fun shapes or add yummy toppings for decoration (and nutrition, shh). ✽

“Vegetables are yucky!" Your child doesn’t like vegetables? Blend mild tasting veggies, such as peas, and mix them in tomato sauce. Then have your little one help you make homemade pizzas with toppings of his choice. For dessert, make delicious fruit smoothies, adding a handful of spinach or kale. These hearty greens are barely noticeable among the strong fruit flavors.

“I just want a peanut butter sandwich." While the PB&J is a great back-up plan, expand your child’s palate to include other nut butters. Spread some almond or sunflower butter on a slice of toast, or add banana slices on top of the nut butter for added flavor. You can even add nutrition to

TRIED IT ALL?

If your child needs more help with his finicky eating, check out these books for expert advice for parents of picky eaters. "Helping Your Child with Extreme Picky Eating" by Katja Rowell and Jenny McGlothlin

GIGGLE FAVORITE!

"Deceptively Delicious" by Jessica Seinfeld

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

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early years

ages 4-5

Keeping the Peace BY OLIVIA K. PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

“It’s MINE!” “Johnny hit me!” “You’re not my friend anymore!” Sound familiar? Parenting two small children sometimes makes me feel like a referee, complete with timeouts and interceptions. Children begin learning to socialize when they are preschool-aged and since they are still very much egocentric, this can create conflicts. While their teachers are helping them learn conflict resolution skills, here are some ways you can continue the lesson at home.

➜ Game on! Playing games with children introduces them to rules and teaches them to take turns. Before starting a game, identify what each piece is and explain the rules of the game. Simple games such as “Connect Four” and the card game “War” have clear objectives. Be mindful of your behavior at the end of the game: You are teaching your child how to win – and lose – graciously.

➜ Express yourself A child’s vocabulary is still developing at this age, and many often become frustrated because they don’t know how to express themselves. Help your child to identify what he is feeling: sad, disappointed, angry, irritated, etc. Download a feelings chart with pictures of moods to help your child describe what he is experiencing. Use the chart with your child, and point out how you feel throughout the day.

➜ Have a ball! Learning to problem solve can be a great game. Buy an inflatable beach ball and write different scenarios on each color. For example, “Your friend took away one of your toys while you were playing with it. How do you handle it?” or “You see someone push your friend on the playground. What do you do?” Take turns tossing the ball to one another and answer the question that is on top. Questions like these promote important conversations and help your child develop his problem solving skills.

You’ve heard it before, but it’s worth repeating: You are your child’s most important teacher. If you can show your child how you handle conflict in a healthy way, chances are he will do the same. Speaking in a calm tone, listening to the other person and compromising are all excellent behaviors to model for your child. When things don’t go your way, explain that sometimes that will happen and we need to accept it (versus having a temper tantrum). And if you wind up having a tantrum yourself (it happens!), later explain the error of your ways. A little humility can go a long way! ✽

Books are Great Teachers too!

For those times you hear your children arguing over the television or a favorite toy, employ the ABCD technique. Ask what the problem is, Brainstorm solutions, Choose a solution and Do it! Teach your children this technique long before you have to use it so they will be prepared when you do. This will help your children work together to resolve their conflict.

➜ Modeling good behavior

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

• “Hey Little Ant” by Phillip and Hannah Hoose • “Sheila Rae’s Peppermint Stick” by Kevin Henkes • “The Story of Ferdinand” by Munro Leaf

➜ Problem solving

Soon you may find them using the ABCD technique without your intervention!

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kids

ages 6-9 verbal barb. Teach them that there is a difference between anger and irritation, frustration and annoyance. And let them know it’s OK to feel their feelings. When we block their goals (even if they unreasonably want to eat gummy bears for lunch or play video games for three hours straight), they are feeling genuine and real emotions, and it is our job to give them the language to express them.

I Hate you!

Lehman also advises parents to work toward the “extinction” of sassy behavior. He says, “If you respond to mildly annoying behavior in a strong way repeatedly, you give it power and strength. Remember, the less power you give it, the more it’s going to die its natural death.”

Putting Verbal Disrespect to Rest

Your children will learn that wounding with their words will not press your buttons. This takes practice and having a plan, because children have the ability to sense when we are around people who constitute an “audience,” and when better to watch Mom explode than when she’s surrounded by people?

BY KELLY GOEDE

It was bound to happen. My sweet, nearly angelic son, who had promised to “always love me always” and had pronounced me “best mommy in the world,” had uttered those words that make every parent wince—“I hate you!” And to add insult to injury, he timed those words so his siblings and some Target employees were in earshot. He was angry that I wouldn’t let him watch TV on a school night. My other children have also said similar sentiments, each slamming my parental brick wall with the force of a tsunami, their emotions raw and words hastily chosen so as to express their anger and maybe wound me in the process. When our kids sass off, act cheeky, or (as my Italian grandmother would say) “talk fresh,” our response critically steers in the direction of our future

interactions. We can escalate or deescalate the intensity of the situation, simply by how we react. And, even though their choice of words may have been ugly, our children are trying to express their frustration or anger and we need to validate their emotions, even if they are misguided. As with so many parenting strategies, de-sassifying your children requires time spent proactively – before the offending behavior takes place. Child behavioral therapist James Lehman, MSW, of Empoweringparents.com, says children talk to adults in disrespectful ways because “they don’t know how to express emotions appropriately.” Helping children to identify and label emotions will benefit them in those moments when they spew out a

Lehman also recommends consistency. “Let’s say you let it slide and then sometimes you confront your child. When you do that, those behaviors become entrenched.” I, personally, want to have a loving relationship with my children—I don’t want to be the volcano they paddle around, unsure when it will erupt. Rachel Macy Stafford, author of the blog Handsfreemama.com, reminds us that we are our response to our children. Choosing calm and allowing ourselves a “three second pause” gives us the power to “save a morning, spare some pain and prevent regret from being a lifelong companion.” ✽

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

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tweens Volunteering Opportunities for Tweens ages 10-13

by ale russian

Encouraging your tween to care about something other than school gossip, her friends and what’s happening on her favorite TV show can be a daunting task. It’s the age of not caring and trying too hard to always look cool. But it’s also the right age to begin Volunteering. Whether to fight boredom or help them expand their horizons and how they think about the world, volunteering can help your tween step out of their comfort zone. Volunteering should be a positive experience. To find out what your child might be interested in, spend some time with her going over different opportunities that are available to her in your community. If she can connect with the cause, it is even better. Here are a couple of local suggestions for volunteering and helping the community.

›› LEON COUNTY HUMANE SOCIETY

Helping with cute animals is a great way to get your tween started on the idea of volunteering. The Humane Society does require that an adult accompany any volunteer between the ages of 12-17, so this can be a wonderful opportunity to get the whole family involved. For the tweens, there are plenty of ways for them to help the animals; from giving them some much needed love or walking the dogs, there is always a way to help. If it is the right fit for your family, there is the opportunity of getting to foster animals as well. Check with the Humane Society to see what the requirements are.

›› Ronald McDonald House Charities of Tallahassee, Inc

The Ronald McDonald Charities of Tallahassee is a place of true comfort for families of pediatric patients that are seeking medical treatment at nearby hospitals and medical facilities.

➜ Go to Rmhctallahassee.org for more information and to complete a volunteer application.

›› KIDS INCORPORATED

Kids Incorporated is a fun way for your child to get involved in her community and truly make a difference in people’s lives. By becoming a school readiness volunteer, your tween will work directly in the classroom and gain valuable experience working with others and making decisions. She’ll also get to play with the children and help them with

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

activities if they are struggling. Being a support system for others is an important lesson to learn and volunteering directly with kids is a perfect way to start. ➜ Visit Kidsincorporated.org for more information.

These are just a few of the many opportunities available for your tween in our area. Reach out to other organizations you think may align with your child's interests and help her participate in some way. It really is a win-win situation for all involved. ✽

➜ Visit www.lchs.info

There are multiple ways that your tween can volunteer here, including preparing meals, answering phones, cleaning and decorating for holidays. Exposing your tween to how many other families lives are changed by medical needs and their ability to come together despite obstacles is a valuable lesson.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

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teens

ages 14-18

College Campus Visits: What to Know Before You Go by lisa katz

Deciding where to go to college can be a daunting task and many factors play into the decision. A student may feel strongly about going to a school on a specific coast or that a school has to have a strong sports program. Others may feel the size of the school is the deciding factor. In any of these instances, visiting the actual college or university of interest plays a key role in the decision. College visits most often take place during a student’s junior year of high school, during the summer between junior and senior year or in the beginning of the student’s senior year. Ideally, students and parents should come to the visits armed with lots of questions. Do your homework! Research majors, sports and activities the school offers so you can learn more about them while you're there. Ask questions about dorms, cars, safety, food, parking, infirmary, game tickets and anything else you can think of. Many colleges prefer students to come during the fall or spring semesters, as opposed to the summer, so they have a more accurate feel of the school while in session.

›› Prospective Student Visits at UF and FSU University of Florida The information session at UF is typically about 30 minutes followed by a 90-minute walking tour of the campus. Tours are available Monday – Friday, except when the school is closed or on a holiday. Tours are

“A campus tour is a great way to get a true feel for what a school has to offer. Student ambassadors (called “Cicerones” at UF) lead potential students around the campus. They make seven stops and discuss topics like the application process, meal plans, housing options and class sizes. These ambassadors talk with students and parents about their personal real-life experiences here at UF.” - Giulia Farrior, University of Florida Welcome Center UF also offers a unique program called “Gator For a Day” that is only granted to high school seniors during their fall or spring semester. The student must fill out a registration form and have a 3.7 unweighted GPA or higher. This program allows the prospective student to shadow a current UF student. He will be able to attend an actual class, walk around and find out what is happening on campus firsthand. For more information, visit UF’s website: Ufl.edu.

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Florida State University Campus tours at Florida State University are offered Monday – Friday, except when the school is closed, during final exams or on a holiday. The FSU information session is 45 minutes long with a 90-minute walking tour. A tour can be scheduled either by calling the University Center or by using their website. “Tours are student-led by chosen FSU ambassadors and highlight the inside of the campus. The ambassadors walk the students through a residence hall, dining hall, several academic departments and talk about many extracurricular activities offered. The tour basically showcases the different FSU programs available to incoming students. I usually recommend students visit in the fall in order to see what a student’s normal environment is like.” - Kelly Scandone, FSU University Center For more information, visit FSU’s website: Fsu.edu.

Here in Florida, there are two major public universities that many students consider attending. The University of Florida and Florida State University are the largest universities in the state, with enrollment rates of 50,000 students and 40,000 students, respectively, and both offer an exceptional education. It would benefit a prospective student to visit each campus if anticipating applying to the schools.

also unavailable when there are final exams or special campus events. Students can sign up for a tour either over the phone with the UF Welcome Center or on the school’s website.

Current students and parents share their experiences … “It was important for me to visit FSU because I felt the campus was beautiful and that it also provided a good education.” - Ashley Cohrs, current FSU student “I think it's important to visit a college campus to see if you feel a connection to the atmosphere and the culture of the school. Every college looks great in its brochure.” - Marcie Cohen, mother of a son who considered a Florida university but currently attends the University of Tennessee “The feeling the child gets when he or she walks on that campus is one of the most important considerations for which school they should attend.” - Kathy Joyner, mother of a current FSU student

Spending time on a college campus enables them to get a true sense of the school’s atmosphere, spirit and surrounding community. Often it is the visit that will solidify whether or not a student feels that particular college or university is a good fit for him. We spotlighted two of our state’s universities, but there are so many great schools to explore. Check out Stateofflorida.com/ colleges-and-universities.aspx for a complete list of Florida’s public and private colleges and universities. ✽

“When trying to select a college, I looked into four major factors: location, if it had my desired major, if sporting events were popular, and the student body enrollment. Although many schools met these basic qualifications, I was not able to select a school based on facts alone, so I visited the schools. When I stepped onto UF's campus, I knew I was home. The vibe the campus gave me and the immense amount of spirit and pride seen on campus solidified UF as my top choice to continue my educational pursuits. By actually being on the college campus you are able to envision a future and truly see how a school can foster your education.” - Tara Segalewitz, current UF student

Can't make the trip? ✽✽ Often high schools coordinate with their state’s ✽✽ colleges and universities to have a representative come and talk to junior-year students. These representatives discuss how the admission process of their school works and what type of student is of most interest, among other helpful topics. Check with your child’s school for more information about any upcoming visits from representatives.

Technology has now made it possible to offer a virtual tour of most colleges via that school’s website. The virtual tour is highly convenient and can be viewed from any computer, tablet or smart phone with Internet access. These tours are so thorough that you feel as if you are actually on the campus itself, and are especially helpful if the student is unable to visit a campus in person. gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

happy community

G I G G LE R EA D E R S S HA R E

We asked our Giggle readers to send their First Day of School photos and we were so excited with the response! Thank you, Leon County, for sharing your Back-to-School excitement with us!

Alyssa, 3rd Grade

Saige, Pre-K 2

Myles, 2nd Grade

Jazzlin, 3rd Grade

Ashton, 2nd Grade Ashleigh, Pre-K

Anna, 1st Grade Eleanor, Pre-K 3

Channing, Kindergarten

Finley, 1st Grade Bradford, Pre-K 4

Blake, 1st Grade Anna Britton, 4th Grade

Tyler Jack, Kindergarten Allie, Pre-K 4

Paige, Kindergarten Jack, 4th Grade

Jewel, 10th Grade Chase, 1st Grade Chandler, Pre-K 4

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

Hudson, 1st Grade Leighton, Kindergarten

Haley, 1st Grade Cade, Pre-K 4

Mabry, 1st Grade Hudson, 4th Grade

Maisy, Kindergarten

Baker, 3rd Grade Brooks, 2nd Grade Ainsley, Kindergarten

Hayden, 4th Grade

Eliza, Pre-K 2

Everett, 2nd Grade Eva, Kindergarten

Emerson, 1st Grade Hadley, Pre-K 4 Windsor, Pre-K 2

Hudson, 1st Grade Katie Grace, Pre-K 4

Michael, 4th Grade Molly, 8th Grade

Corbin, 2nd Grade Cayden, 1st Grade

Will, 2nd Grade

Ashton, 2nd Grade Emory, 1st Grade Hayes, Pre-K 4

Palmer, 3rd Grade

Peyton, 4th Grade

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015

happy community

O C T O BE R / N O V E M BE R c a l e n d a r

November 5

Mommy and Me Class (ages 2-3) October 3

11th Annual Tallahassee All Car Club Show & Shine 9:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m. Benefitting Lighthouse Children’s Home Tallahassee Antique Car Museum Panhandleponies.com October 4 - 5

16th Annual Golf Tournament and 3rd Annual Stop the Violence 5K Benefitting the Refuge House Southwood Golf Club Refugehouse.com October 9-October 31

Scarecrows in the Gardens October 1

Mommy and Me Music Class (ages 2-3)

11:15 a.m. Holy Comforter Episcopal School Free, open to the public, 15 students per class – sign up online at www.holy-comforter.org/mommyandme October 3

Art and Garden Fall Family Festival 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. UF IFAS North Florida Research and Education Center Quincy, FL 850-875-7100 October 3

Blessing of the Animals 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. Mission San Luis Free event Missionsanluis.org

October 3 - November 28 (weekly on Saturday)

20th Anniversay of the Downtown Marketplace 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m Downtown Tallahassee

Alfred B. Maclay Gardens State Park 850-487-4556 October 17

Tally Fiesta 2015 1:00 - 9 p.m. Kleman Plaza Tallyfiesta.com October 18

Leon County Making Strides Against Breast Cancer 2015 5K 3 - 5:00 p.m. Cascades Park October 23

17th Annual Stone Crab Fest Benefitting the Ronald McDonald House of Tallahassee 6:30 – 10:00 p.m. Eagle Hill at WC Dover Farm October 31

Halloween October 31

2nd Annual Race 4 Readiness

Walkup Registration begins at 7:00 a.m. Supporting the ELC of Big Bend 850-552-7305 Elcbigbend.org

11:15 a.m. Holy Comforter Episcopal School Free, open to the public, 15 students per class – sign up online at www.holy-comforter.org/mommyandme November 7

4th Annual Goodwood Jams Doors open at 4:00 p.m. Goodwood Museum & Gardens Goodwoodjams.com November 7

Wish Upon A Star

5:30 - 10:00 p.m Dover Farm, Havana, FL 850-219-4205 November 11

Veteran’s Day November 11

Leon County Schools Closed November 13

60th Anniversary Founder's Day and Homecoming Holy Comforter Episcopal School November 25- 27

Leon County Schools Closed November 26

Thanksgiving

happy community

gigglemag.com | OCTOBER/NOVEMBER 2015