Giggle Magazine - June/July 2016 - Tallahassee

GREATER

TALLAHASSEE'S

PREMIER

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

JUNE/JULY 2016 • Volume 2 • Issue 6

s u l p

It's a Day at the BEach!

Ice Cream…it IS worth screaming for!

9 must-haves for your next coastal getaway getting hot? recognize these 5 ailments

www.gigglemag.com

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Allison Raber COPY Editor Colleen McTiernan GRAPHIC DESIGNER Tanya Consaul, Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving MARKETING ASSISTANT Delia Albert ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Jessica Kerr executive assistant Sayeh Farah Contributing Writers Delia Albert, Selena Garrison, Nicole Germany, Nicole Irving, Lisa Katz, Jessica Kerr, Helen Kornblum, Shellie McSwain, Danielle Pastula, Olivia Pitkethly, Allison Raber, Taryn Tacher, April Tisher Contributing Photographers Ashley Daniell Photography Stephanie Acar

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. Š 2016

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

ADVERTISING

For more information on advertising, contact Jessica Kerr at (850) 543-4328 or email Jessica@irvingpublications.com

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from the publisher

sweet summertime Last summer, all I wanted to do was, well, nothing. I wanted to sit down, relax and enjoy a slower schedule. I am not sure if I accomplished that or not, but it was still a great break from the hustle and bustle of the school year. This summer, I want to shake things up. I want to venture outside of my comfort zone and experience new places and things with my family. I want to do some traveling and exploring and spend quality time with the boys, for this summer will soon pass us by, too.

While we say our last goodbyes to beloved teachers, clean out those lockers and reflect on the last lunches we have to prepare (hallelujah! Insert jumping for joy here!), let’s look forward to a summer filled with new and exciting opportunities to connect as a family. Take a breath of fresh air, for August will be here before we know it.

See you in August; I am off to the beach!

One of our favorite beaches to visit in Jupiter, Florida!

MEET OUR

COVER CUTIE

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

What is your name?

Nico What grade will you be in next fall?

7th What are you looking forward to this summer?

Another year at Camp Crystal and surf camp.

What is your favorite book?

Burning Nation by Trent Reedy What is your favorite summer treat?

We were so excited to partner with Snapper Rock, the creator of an adorable line of children's swimwear that offers UV50+ sun protection! Check out our beach feature, starting on page 32, for even more cute styles and head over to snapperrock.com to snag some gear for your kiddos!

Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGTALLAHASSEE

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follow us on Twitter @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

What is your favorite summer memory?

Spending 4th of July at Summer House with the Colemans and Costibiles.

Follow us on Instagram @GIGGLEMAGTALLY

Photos by Stephanie Acar.

Rita's Juicy Pear Italian Ice

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JUNE · JULY 2016 happy family • happy community

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TM

health

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38 Leave Them at the Door 40 Staying Safe in the Summer Sun

learn 42 Keeping Your Family Safe from

Hot Car Fatalities

happy community

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65 june/july Calendar 67 corkboard

conception 2✱ college™

life 10 How I Work with My Husband...

Peacefully!

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POWER PARENT

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Thomas (Tommy) Lee Folsom III

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52 expecting

The Hardest Goodbye...to Date 54 infant

Baby Needs a New Pair of Shoes

happy family

The Robinton Family

56 TODDLER

Let’s Get Crafty!

58 early years

happy home

Calming Those Kindergarten Nerves —

for Both Parents and Kids!

60 kids

22 The Honey–Don’t List

Too Young to Wear That?

62 tweens

24 Queries from the Curious

When Is It Smart to Get Your Child

26 Summerize Your House

28 Timing Purchases Perfectly!

a Smartphone?

63 teens

Hazing in High School: It Can Happen

forks & spoons

GREATER

30 Kids… It's Dinner Time!

31

Shake Up Your Chicken Salad

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

A DAY AT THE BEACH | ICE CREAM | HOTTIE DADS 2016

Chill Out! A Day at the Beach Hottie Dads 2016 Simple All-American Recipes

PREMIER

JUNE/JULY 2016 • Volume 2 • Issue 6

fe a t u res 17 32 44 66

TALLAHASSEE'S

GIGGLE MAGAZINE

Happy Family photo by Ashley Daniell Photography. Beach photo by Stephanie Acar.

20 The Perfect Gifts for Him!

44 63

plu

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IT'S A DAY AT THE BEACH! ICE CREAM…IT IS WORTH SCREAMING FOR!

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9 MUST-HAVES FOR YOUR NEXT COASTAL GETAWAY

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GETTING HOT? RECOGNIZE THESE 5 AILMENTS

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GIGGLEMAG.COM | JUNE/JULY 2016

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Photo by Stephanie Acar gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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life So, how do I work with my husband?

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We have separate offices on separate sides of the building. I have my space and he has his.

2 We have our designated areas of specialty.

I manage one aspect of the business, and he manages the other, so we try to balance each other out.

3 We took a personality test to understand

why we react the way we do. It was very helpful.

4 We have separate emails and cellphones.

We respect each other’s privacy and have unwavering trust that the other can manage their responsibilities.

5 We are NOT with each other all day. We

Better Together:

How I Work with My Husband... Peacefully!

By nicole irving

Working with my husband brings a whole different set of dynamics to the table, outside of raising our children and our marriage. It is not always easy. There are many times when I ask myself, “Why am I doing this?” Sometimes I even envision placing a pink slip in his paycheck.

We both have very strong personalities that can (and do) clash at times, but it’s always because we want what is best for our team and our company. It’s then that I realize we are both in it for the greater good, and we are better together, even at work, than apart.

Is it perfect all the time? No. We have had our ups and downs, and it has been a constant learning process. But, the pros have outweighed the cons. We are each other’s biggest cheerleaders and that is HUGE. We know what the other one is going through because we are living it with them, and that can make all the difference.

• Set work time boundaries. Know when to turn it off.

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when we see that we have areas that we can make better. treatment or let our feelings fester.

8 Someone is designated as the boss, and it is

yours truly! The staff knows who is who. It helps with any power struggles.

9 I have boundaries. At a certain time, I turn off

work. Then he knows that I am done talking about work and focused on family.

10 We don’t share a car. Although we work at

the same office, our days are very different, so we each have our own cars to be able to do what we need to, without the other one feeling trapped or like an inconvenience.

11 We don’t hide anything from each other.

Important decisions regarding financials, staff and the business structure are made as a team and with full disclosure. ✽

• Have each other’s back, even if you don’t always agree. Find a time when you are alone to talk about your issues and work it out privately.

• Watch tone in front of employees. It is easy to get too relaxed and start yelling/disagreeing in front of others.

• Do not hide anything from each other.

• Be professional with the “lovey” stuff.

• Make sure that at the end of the day, you know that your family comes first and that is your No. 1 priority.

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© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

• Set responsibilities.

6 We are honest and try to help each other

7 We are vocal. We don’t do the silent

I am asked all the time, “How do you do it? How do you work with your husband?

I could NEVER do it … I would kill him!”

Tips for working together…

actually see each other only about one to two hours each workday, if that. We are both extremely busy, so we don’t have time to get in each other’s way or get sick of seeing one another.

life

p o w e r pa r e n t

thomas (tommy) Lee Folsom III President of Florida Insurance Consultants Inc., a commercial insurance agency husband to amy, dad to sons Caden (12), Brett (10) and Emory (5)

Between taking clients out to lunch and rushing his boys off to sports practice, life can get hectic for Tommy Folsom. Thanks to his amazing work ethic he learned from his father, he knows how to work hard to get the job done so he can spend plenty of time with his wife, Amy, and three sons.

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

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What does your typical workday look like?

I wake up around 5:30 to work out. Then I return home, get ready for work, take one of the boys to school and then head into the office. I will usually follow up on current applications in process, take care of some service requests or contact new prospects to set meetings. We hold a Monday morning conference call with the Orlando office. I might have lunch with a client, or potential client, and attend a few outside sales meetings during the day.

Most evenings we are off to sports practice for one of the boys’ many activities or at home grilling a family dinner.

How do you balance work life and family life?

I try to put the family first as much as possible.

Family is what makes us happy and the reason we all work so hard, so it’s important to make the time to share it. It is a hard balance sometimes because it is the successful work that affords us the opportunities we have to lead such fulfilling lives.

What sacrifices/compromises have you had to make?

I am fortunate to say I don’t feel like I have made any major sacrifices or compromises. We have the challenge to raise three good boys in today’s world,

which seems harder every day. I wouldn’t trade a thing. If anyone has sacrificed, it’s Amy. She has a business degree and was the breadwinner while my career was starting. Then she chose to give that up to stay home with the boys and help raise our family to be the best we could.

What advice would you give other working parents?

Make sure to find the time for yourself and your family. You need to nurture both to be successful and stay in top mental shape so you don’t get burned out. Find the balance and release that works for you to be able to decompress. I find that I have to limit my social media activity or it will consume much of my time without me realizing it. If you can’t be that disciplined, then turn off the social media at work and only check your emails once in the morning and once after lunch. Cherish your time with your kids, even when it is hectic — they grow up way too fast (I am still working on this one). Most importantly, find time routinely for you and your spouse to be alone.

When and how do you make time for yourself?

This is key to any relationship, and I try to make my time where it doesn’t interfere with my family. Occasionally it does and that’s OK. My wife gives me “guy time” and time to do things with friends. I show her the same respect, and it keeps us both sane and mentally fresh.

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Who is your greatest inspiration?

My father. He taught me a hard work ethic and that you must earn everything you get — nothing will be handed to you in life.

Also, there are other industry elders that have mentored me in the insurance business.

Who are your biggest supporters?

My unbelievable wife and my close friends. My business partners come from a great family and have taught me so much.

What are 5 items you must have at work?

1. Phone and Internet connection.

2. Trusted business relationships, in and out of the office.

3. Friendly people. We have a secret Thanksgiving Test — if you wouldn’t invite a person to Thanksgiving, then he or she most likely won’t fit into our personnel.

4. Funny people. I am a big joker, and you must laugh to make it through the day.

5. Accountability. You have to rely on teamwork in our profession and know that tasks will get done so you can move on. Service is key in our business Bonus: 6. Positivity. Insurance is viewed as negative sometimes, and you must be able to face rejection.

What is your go to breakfast?

Breakfast is my favorite meal. I cook it for the family every chance I get. I make eggs, grits, sausage, bacon, figs on toast and, of course, chocolate chip and blueberry pancakes for the boys. My quick go-to healthier breakfast during the week is oatmeal with fruit.

What is your coffee order?

A local favorite — my buddy Ben’s Lucky Goat Coffee.

Finish this sentence: I hope that I have taught my children... to always put God first, to understand the value of a dollar, to be fair and honest, and to know that with hard work you can accomplish anything. I also want them to always consider what others are going through and to give back. ✽

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life

h a p p y f a m i ly

Meet t he

Robinton Family

Charles, Roxanne, Riley (9), Maggie (6), Mary Charles "Charlie" (1) and Charles "Chase" Mark Robinton, IV, arriving this October!

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOTOGRAPHY

Occupations: Charles is the first vice president of investments at Raymond James, and Roxanne is a stay-at-home mom.

Favorite local restaurants: Red Elephant, Village Pizza and El Jalisco Favorite local “must go� places: Doak Campbell Stadium, Tallahassee Museum, Maclay Gardens and Sky Zone.

Children's favorite meals: Grilled chicken kabobs, shrimp and grits, teriyaki meatballs and rice.

Family Favorite Holiday: Halloween!

Charles decorates the entire house, inside and out, and the children ride around in

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our "Witch Halloween Trailer" attached to our golf cart to trick-or-treat. The month of October is so much fun in our house!

Describe your family in 3 words: Close-knit family.

Do you have any pets: We have a cat, Bailey.

Why do you love raising your family in Tallahassee?

We love that Tallahassee is a family-oriented community that is warm and full of friendly faces wherever we go.

What makes your kiddos laugh?

Milk mustaches, funny movies and inappropriate sounds.

What would your family's dream vacation be? Riley and Maggie would say their dream vacation is to go to Paris, but Charles and I would love to go back one day, with all of the children, to where it all began. We got married on the island of Anguilla, and we would love to share the place that is so special to us with our children one day when they are all old enough to appreciate it.

Anything exciting coming up for your family? We are expecting a new baby boy in October! It is not only exciting because we all love babies, but it is also exciting because we just found out it is a boy! We can't wait to spoil him!

Favorite date spot: We love to go to the movies, then go to Avenue for dinner and have a cocktail at Market Square Lounge.

Movie in the DVD player: “The Lion King.”

Kids favorite books: “Pete the Cat,” anything from Dr. Seuss, “Magic Tree House,” “The Daring Book for Girls,” and “Goodnight Moon.”

Mommy and Daddy's favorite TV shows: “Billionaire,” and “House of Cards” (we don't watch much TV).

Favorite picnic spot: Our backyard or Maclay Gardens.

Favorite family activity: Swimming or snuggling up on the couch with some popcorn to watch a movie.

Anything else you would like to share about your family? We love spending time outdoors, whether we are at the beach, riding bikes, playing catch, or anything at all where we are sweating in the sun. We live in Tallahassee after all! ]

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Š 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Beat the heat with our favorite summer treat!

Chill Out! Here's the scoop: whether it's stacked high in a bowl or melting all over your waffle cone, ice cream is the quintessential summertime snack.

BY Nicole Irving, Allison Raber and Nicole Germany gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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Game of Cones Choosing a flavor is hard enough! Check out our guide below to pick the perfect cone for your creamy concoction.

››

Waffle Bowl

››

Perfect for when you can’t choose between a cone or bowl! Waffle bowls are usually made of the same ingredients as the waffle cone, just in a different shape.

They are a less messy option than a cone, and you still get to eat it afterwards!

Sugar Cone

This iconic-shaped cone may look similar to the waffle cone, but tends to be smaller and crunchier. It’s sweet taste and sturdy cone makes the sugar cone a classic choice.

Cake cones have less than 5% sugar and tend to be less expensive than other varieties. This cone also has a built-in support structure to hold even more of your frozen treat!

did know?

Waffle Cone The fanciest of the ice cream cones, the waffle cone is also the largest and softest option. A blend of cake and pastry flours gives them their sweet and crunchy taste!

Chocolate syrup is the world's most popular ice cream topping! Yum!

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved

››

Cake Cone

››

The Best Banana Split • Hot fudge • Peanuts • Whipped Cream • Maraschino Cherries • Rainbow sprinkles

According to a report by National Public Radio, there are 30– to 50 million American adults who cannot produce enough of the enzyme that digests lactose, or milk sugar. This can have them screaming about ice cream… literally. So, what can lactoseintolerance sufferers do when they have the desire to indulge in that cream milk goodness?

First, consult your doctor about supplements of the enzyme lactase or, if that is not an option, change your ice cream selection to lactose-free dairy products, which are made by adding lactase.

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved. Photo of Allan Ganz courtesy of Ganz family.

More than Just Ice Cream!

Which of these frozen treats have you tried?

older

Guinn e

ok World Reco Bo r

dH

ss

Yum!

Ingredients • 1 large Organic ripe banana, sliced long ways • 1 scoop each of French Vanilla, Strawberry and Chocolate ice cream

Lactose Got You Screaming?

At just 76 years young in 2014, Alan Ganz, of Peabody, Massachusetts had been serving ice cream for 67 years when he broke the record for the longest career as an ice cream man.

Today, he is now in his 69th year!

Gelato

Sherbert

Sorbet

Frozen Yogurt

Custard

Gelato is Italian for ice cream and generally has less fat because it’s made with whole milk instead of cream. Gelato is mostly free of eggs and stabilizers and has about a 3.8% milkfat percentage.

Sherbet is a frozen fruit and dairy product that contains anywhere from 1 percent to 3 percent milkfat from milk or cream.

Sorbet is sometimes confused with sherbet because they both contain fruit. However, sorbet has little to no dairy and is mostly made from frozen juices or purees, but can also be made with cocoa.

Compared to ice cream, frozen yogurt is usually healthier, but in some cases that 16-ounce “original” or “plain” flavor cup weighs in at 380 calories and 76g of sugar before adding any toppings.

Custard, like ice cream must contain at least 10% milkfat, but it is differentiated from ice cream because it must also contain at least 1.4% egg yolk solids by weight.

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2016

happy home

THE PERFECT GIFTS

by nicole irving

! m i H for

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1. Obaku Watch Inspired by classic Danish design traditions with a mix of asian zen philosophy. $269.00, Obaku.com

Whether he is into grilling, travel or sports, we have some incredible gift ideas to honor the special dad in your life.

2. Mont Blanc Legend A fresh and lively fragrance that is perfect for any occasion. $44.99, Fragrancenet.com.

3. T-fal Optigrill Plus This revolutionary “smart” indoor grill can easily cook up all of the family’s tasty grilled BBQ favorites from the shelter of your own home. $179, Bed Bath & Beyond.

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4. T-fal Electric Pressure Cooker Featuring 25 cooking programs - 12 of which are automatic functions. $99, Walmart.

5. Guitar Glasses, set of 4 Every guitar enthusiast will recognize these iconic guitars from each genre of music. $35/set of 4, Uncommongoods.com.

6. Casper Sheets Casper sheets are the perfect balance of softness and breathability that last wash after wash. $150-$200, Casper.com.

7. Fruit Infusing Ice Balls, set of 4 Enhance any drink with the subtle and sweet taste of berries, herbs or citrus. $10, Uncommongoods.com.

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8. illy X7.1 iperEspresso Machine Its advanced technology includes steel internal “thermoblock” and a Pannarello steam wand that froths milk for creamy cappuccinos and lattes. $295, Illyusa.com.

9. David Yurman Fresh Essence With hints of musk, exotic woods and water, this cologne comes packaged in a classic bottle with their signature silver rope accent. $30.99, Fragrancenet.com.

10. Dollar Shave Club This subscription-based club delivers razors right to you and boxes can be personalized from an entire line of original grooming, skincare and hair care products.

Starts at $3/month, DollarShaveClub.com.

11. IMUSA Panini Press Make restaurant quality paninis, pressing like a pro and to perfection! $35, Kmart.com.

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happy home

The Honey–Don’t List

BY NICOLE IRVING

We either have one at home, or know of one. You know, that hubby who thinks he is Mr. Fix Everything. And, while we do appreciate their skills and their go-get-’em attitude, we all know that there are certain things that they should leave to the professionals … so behold, the Honey-Don’t list.

(Disclaimer: Share with a cold drink and a kiss on the cheek.)

Anything that has to do with the MAIN electrical system

This should be left to a certified electrician for their safety and the safety of the house!

Detailed plumbing

There’s no reason he needs to be opening valves and moving anything that has to do with the water going in and out of your home!

Large tree removal

Just picture a ladder and a chainsaw. Need I say more?

Knocking down walls

If one of those walls is a weight-bearing wall, you will end up with the second floor on the first. Not a good move!

Anything that has to do with the gas line in the home

If the gas line is left open even a bit, gas will expel and deadly carbon monoxide will fill up the home. Your husband definitely will not want this one on his conscience.

Roof repair

Husband + Being on the roof + Large gust of unpredictable Florida wind = Possible disaster.

Air conditioning repair

Building furniture

Although he may start with good intentions, it is cheaper in the long run to buy that rocking chair for your nursery. Work smarter, not harder!

Sewage line repair

The word “sewage” should stop him in his tracks.

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© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

With the summer temperatures already climbing, do not risk it! One night in the heat and your marriage may be on the line.

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happy home to put all car-related papers into a hanging file, knowing that you will have to sort through many papers to find a particular one. If you want to subdivide the papers, consider subfolders for legal papers (title, purchase documents, tickets), maintenance receipts, loans and AAA membership. Find the groupings and language that make sense to you. ● Update your outline of categories and subfolders as you create them, because this list will become your file index, a roadmap into your files to help you remember where you put things until you get used to the system. As long as you use your own vocabulary, you should be able to follow the trail back to the correct subfile easily.

A s k He l en

Queries from the Curious I’ve purged a lot of paper using your suggestions for recycling and shredding. I tucked the archival stuff into boxes, which helped clear out the filing cabinet. What’s left is a filing system that doesn’t make much sense to me or my husband and stacks of papers that still need a home. Now what?

● Spread out those homeless, but important, papers, and write down the broad subject areas that you notice.

For example, how many papers do you have that relate to your car, children, pets,

● Pay attention to the language you use as you group the papers. What do you call the thing that sits in your driveway?

Go with your intuitive language. Is it your car, vehicle, truck? Or do you call it “Bob”? If other people will use the files too, make sure the language you use for categories also makes sense to them. Remember, filing is as much about retrieval as it is about storage. ● You are now ready to use hanging files to establish the main categories of your filing system. You will divide all the related papers into subfolders. There’s no rule about how to do this because this process is based on what your brain considers to be logical. Keep the system simple and avoid over filing. A single piece of paper does not warrant a subfolder all its own. Let’s use the Car category as an example. The simplest approach might be

If you’re concerned about mislabeling files when you first start the process, use sticky notes instead of creating permanent labels, or label the folders tabs in pencil.

This way you can change the names easily if you recategorize the papers.

Reference files are not static. Purge them every time you handle one. Papers that seem important in 2016 may be obsolete by 2018. Let the files expand, contract and disappear as needed. ✽

Check out the Giggle Magazine Pinterest board for more organizing ideas!

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

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© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Now you’re ready to create a reference filing system that will yield its secrets to you on demand, assuming you take the time to build it logically. A straight alphabetical model isn’t effective because our brains work best with categories. Organizers sometimes call this project filing.

finances, insurances, recreational activities and home maintenance? Group them together. Through this exercise, you will create an outline of the broad categories reflecting the papers that serve your administrative needs.

● Go to the office supply store to choose from the variety of filing supplies. You will need plastic tabs to label the hanging files, or the modern alternative, which has the tab built into the hanging file. You need white adhesive filing labels if you want to write out your labels, or a labeling machine, which gives greater visibility for the hanging files.

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happy home

Summerize Your House

BY TARYN TACHER

The temperature is rising. The humidity is surrounding you.

You feel the warmth on your face (as always) and the bugs are starting to bite. Summer is on the horizon.

Florida’s blistering summer months can be an exhausting collection of sweat, rosy cheeks, sunburns and mosquito bites — all of which are seemingly unavoidable unless you permanently plant yourself under your covers, and even then you’ll start to perspire. But you’re not the only one affected by the sun’s piercing rays — your home takes a beating, too. Here’s what you can do to protect your home from the worst of summer’s arsenal.

For heat Your first instinct is to drop the air conditioning to glacially low levels in order to counteract the catastrophic heat.

But, when your electric bill lands in your mailbox, you’ll quickly regret hyperactively pressing the down arrow on the thermostat, so try some of the following instead.

With summer heat comes creepy, crawly critters shamelessly invading our homes and buzzing in our ears, swarming our sandwiches and nibbling on our sweet skin. Keep the bugs at bay with a few simple steps.

Plant trees and shrubbery on the west and east sides of your home to soak up the sun right in its natural path.

Add screens to the exterior of doors and windows to act as a shield.

Use a battery-operated portable fan to increase the airflow indoors.

Hire an exterminator, or simply purchase insecticide at any home improvement store and spray the perimeter of the house yourself.

Insulate your attic floor to prevent its absorbed heat from sinking down into your house.

Keep exterior lights dim to avoid attracting pests to your home.

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

Light citronella candles to ward off mosquitoes.

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Cover your windows with light-colored blinds to reflect UV rays.

Seal the gaps surrounding doorways and windows with caulking to eliminate entry points for insects. You may even want to install a steel or aluminum threshold underneath your doors for added security.

Reduce the current heat sources in your home by cooking with a microwave or pressure cooker instead of a stove or oven; air drying dishes instead of using the dishwasher; and line-drying clothes instead of using the dryer.

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For bugs

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happy home

Timing Purchases Perfectly!

BY SELENA GARRISON

If you are anything like me, you LOVE a good deal. Luckily for me (and you), we have access to lots of information on the best time to buy just about anything right at our fingertips. With a little bit of research, I have compiled some information for you on the best time to buy some great products!

Dishware June/July

Wedding season means great deals on dishes for everyone.

Gym Memberships/ Equipment June

New Year’s resolutions are a distant memory, so gyms sometimes offer good deals, and you may be able to haggle for even better prices. Gym equipment can be found at discounts at this time for the same reasons.

Cars

Electronics April/May/June/August/ September

Japanese manufacturers end their fiscal year in March, so you can find great deals on TVs and other big electronics in the spring. New models of digital cameras, video recording devices, etc. are revealed at the January Consumer Electronics Show, so the second quarter of the year is a great time for deals on older models.

Major computer companies put out new models in July, so older model discounts and back-to-school sales start in August and September.

September/October New models usually come out at the end of the summer, so many dealerships offer good discounts to clear out last year’s inventory.

January/July

Boats

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

In January, the holiday rush is over and stores give deep discounts to get rid of winter inventory. In July, spring/ summer inventory needs to go to make room for fall/winter clothing.

January/February/March It is off-season for boats as well as boat show season, so you can get a good deal on last year’s models.

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Clothing

Furniture January/July

Linens/ Bedding

Luggage March

January

Most furniture companies release new products in February and August, so they offer great deals in January and July to make room them.

In 1878, John Wanamaker decided to increase store traffic by declaring January the month for a “white sale” (sheets only came in white at the time). Ever since, linens and beddings have traditionally been discounted this month! Thanks, John!

It is between vacation seasons, so you should be able to snag a good deal.

Golf Clubs

Tools

March/December

June/July

If you have a hankering for DIY projects, Father’s Day and summertime deals combine for great prices on tools.

Office Furniture May

New models start coming out in March, so around this time the old clubs start getting pushed out the door of your local golf shop.

December is off-season and also a good time for deals.

Most home businesses start up after tax day, so you can usually find great deals on office chairs and desks in May.

Wedding Services/ Supplies

December/January/February

Office/School Supplies Appliances

May/September/October Everyone tends to want a spring/ summer wedding, so it is easier to negotiate prices on venues, photography and all kinds of wedding supplies in the winter.

New refrigerator models come out in May, while most other new model appliances come out in September/ October. These are the best times to buy last year’s models.

August

Back-to-school sales mean good deals on all kinds of office and school supplies.

Hopefully, this quick list gives you a good idea of the best times of year to buy some great products. For more information and in-depth lists, you can do a quick Web search for “best time to buy” and check out sites like Consumerreports.com. Happy shopping! ✽ gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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forks & spoons

“Kids… It's Dinner Time!”

BY APRIL TISHER

You’ve heard it a thousand times and read it in every article: family dinners are important. They help prevent obesity and increase grade point averages; they may even be the key to world peace! So you try, especially at the beginning of every school year, to make schedules, menus and grocery shopping all work out so that you are sitting down with the family as many nights as possible for dinner. Then reality hits and you’re bargaining with your kids on how many bites they have to eat, someone is kicking someone else under the table and when you ask

how your kids’ days were, all you hear is “fine” in response. Exactly how is this helping?

Change of location

Theme night

My kids think it is much more fun to eat on the back porch than in the kitchen. Try eating outside at the picnic table or clear off the table in the rarely used dining room and set it with your fancy guest dishes. The kids will love the change of scenery and may even surprise you by using their best manners. Pinkies up!

Make it “Taco Tuesday,” create a baked potato bar, or make an endless salad bar to motivate everyone to eat together. You can also make signature dishes from favorite movies or books to get kids of all ages excited about mealtime.

Games

Relax

We were always taught not to play with our food, but we can create some fun activities for mealtime that will keep the family engaged. Playing restaurant (the kids can take orders or serve you), Iron Chef Family Edition, I-Spy or even 20 Questions can keep things entertaining.

Give up the negotiations and nagging for a night. Let them eat what they eat and don’t bargain with them over eating “one more bite of veggies.”

As long as you are offering mostly healthy choices, they will get the nutrition they need.

Experts say it is, really. According to the University of Florida’s IFAS solutions website, “research suggests that having dinner together as a family at least four times a week has positive effects on child development. Family dinners have been linked to a lower risk of obesity, substance abuse, eating disorders and an increased chance of graduating from high school.”

OK, so maybe world peace is a stretch, but I wasn’t that far off. So now that we are convinced we should do it, how can we make family dinners successful and fun?

Start a Conversation

Spending time together as a family is really what makes the mealtime so important, so enjoy! ✽ 30

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Get your kids talking. This becomes especially important as your children get older. That 4-year-old who won’t stop talking will one day be 11 and might answer questions with onesyllable words only. Talk about things that interest THEM, even if you don’t really understand the next level of Clash of Clans. Your third grader’s account of the gaga game at recess today is the most important part of his day, so let him tell you all the details.

If you can’t seem to get things going, do your research. Find out what new movies are coming out, or get family input on what everyone wants to do on your upcoming vacation. If you’re still struggling, put topics in a jar and pull one out at dinnertime.

forks & spoons

Shake Up Your Chicken Salad by nicole IRVING

What is there NOT to love about chicken salad? Yummy pieces of fresh chicken mixed in with a creamy layer of goodness and crunchy nuggets of this and that? Yum!!! This summer, add some pizazz to your chicken salad and try one of our special versions.

ADD THIS

+

+

+

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

+

➜ to make a base chicken salad: • Start with a whole raw chicken. Wash, trim fat and season with salt and pepper.

Top with olive oil. Bake for 90 minutes uncovered, or until done, at 350 F.

• Take of skin, discard. Debone chicken and chop into small pieces.

• Let cool.

• Stir in mayonnaise. For creamier chicken salad, add more. If you like a drier blend, use less.

• Discard carcass (or, use for chicken stock!)

• Add salt, pepper and onion powder to taste.

+

Crunchy Salad: Celery Granny Smith apples Raw pecans Red onion slices Relish Diced carrots Fruity Salad: Fuji apples Green and red grapes Dried cranberries Raw almonds, slivered Raisins Italian: Black olives, sliced thin Sundried tomatoes Roasted peppers Capers Parmesan cheese Red onion Parsley Californian: Almonds Celery Avocado Sprouts Fresh spinach Chia seeds Shaved carrots Cucumber slices to finish Breads: Rye Pumpernickel Croissant Challah Focaccia Wraps

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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Who doesn’t love the sand in their toes, the sun on their face and the smell of the fresh salty air? With summer here, take the whole family for a day (or a week!) to relax at one of our many amazing Florida beaches. From surfing and swimming, to sand castles and shell-searching, the entertainment and fun is endless!

BY NICOLE IRVING | photos by stephanie acar | wardrobe by snapper rock

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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Water Babies

Expecting a summer baby?

Check out these names inspired by the beauty of the sun, sand and surf!

Coral Ocean Sailor Finn Sunny Pearl Reef Summer

Marlin Blu Bay Sandy Sky Ray Ariel Coco

PERCENTAGE OF THE EARTH is COVERED

BY OCEAN.

For those hot summer beach days, pack these quick and healthy treats that will keep your family happy. Remember to avoid salty and sugary snacks!

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gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

Peanut Butter & Apples

Lemon Slushie

Freeze lemonade in small Tupperware containers and store in cooler with ice. They will melt slowly and be the perfect beach treat.

Š 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Cooler COMPANIONS

Frozen Grapes

Sea Glass Those shiny pieces of weathered, frosted gems sprinkled on the beaches are sea or beach glass. After 15¬60 years of tumbling amidst the surf, sand and rocks in the ocean, these discarded glass fragments turn into a collectors dream. If you’re a collector of these sea-worn gems, visit the shores of Sea Glass Beach in Fort Bragg, California, which is said to have the highest concentration of sea glass in the world due to the area being used as a trash dump after the 1906 San Francisco earthquake. Please note, the glass found at Sea Glass Beach is protected by law, and may not be removed.

The best time to find sea glass is one to two hours before and after low tide. sea glass = from saltwater beach glass = from fresh water

First Aid Kit Venture to the beach prepared for anything!

• • • • •

Neosporin Band-Aids Ice packs Tweezers Wash cloth

• • • • • • • • •

Water bottle Sunblock After Sun Lotion Pain reliever Gatorade Visine Sharpie Super Glue Scissors

WHAT DO THE FLAGS MEAN? Green

Double Red

Lowest hazard, calm conditions

No swimming at all

Yellow Medium hazard, moderate surf/currents

Purple Dangerous marine life

Red High hazard, extreme danger, swimming not recommended

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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What Is a Red Tide?

According to the National Ocean Service, a red tide, or as scientists like to call them, “harmful algae blooms,” occur when colonies of algae grow out of control. This overgrowth can cause toxic or harmful effects on people, fish and marine animals. It can also be debilitating or even deadly, although rarely. The N.O.S. reports that nearly every summer, one of the best known cases of HAB’s in the nation happens right here along the Florida’s Gulf Coast. They can last from days to weeks and as the name suggests, the bloom of algae often turns the water red.

"My kid ate sand... could it be harmful?"

Did you know that the Florida beach coastline is made up of a variety of types of sand? We have white, orange, black and gray, brown and some that are a mixture of sand and shell. Ever notice how the white sand beaches are cooler to your toes? This is due to the fact that they are made up of quartz, which does not absorb as much heat!

Kids often eat what they shouldn’t, and everything goes in their mouths. Sand should be one of those things that you try hard to keep out. It may seem innocent and benign, but sand, specifically beach sand, can carry many different toxins, even in small amounts. From cigarette butts, fecal matter (animal and, I hate to say, human) to even glass shards, sand can go from fun to icky in an instant.

Hidden Dangers The beach is a huge draw for kids of all ages, but underneath the glow of the sun are some quiet and lurking dangers.

Rip Currents: These strong and powerful pulls are a silent and deadly killer. Teach your children to swim parallel with the beach until they can make their way in and ALWAYS have your eye on them!

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Being Buried: This activity may seem innocent, but burying any portion of your body in the sand is not safe. Once a hole has been dug, the risk of being stuck if any sand collapses or as a waves rushes in can be deadly.

Stings: Many water friends have protective stingers to keep them safe from predators. However, sometimes kiddos run into them by accident. If this happens, seek emergency care right away and try to identify the animal that stung them.

giggle stamp Baudino Sand Golf $17.99, HabaUSA.com

9

Diapees & Wipees Laminated Storage Bag $19.99, Bed Bath & Beyond

Must-Have Items for Family Fun Days at the Beach Ergodyne Chill-Its Cooling Towels $7.99, Amazon.com

By DANIELLE PASTULA

The kids are out of school and sun-filled days at the beach are upon us! Even though a trip to the beach may seem simple, every parent knows bringing the kids makes it a whole new adventure; one where you need to be prepared with all the right goods in order to truly have a fun and relaxing day. Here are our must-have items to bring in your beach wagon this summer.

The Big Bobber Floating Cooler $36.19, Walmart

SGM Waterproof Pouch $10.99, Amazon.com

Sunburn Alert UV Wristbands $10.99, Amazon.com Hollie and Harrie Sombrilla $168, HollieandHarrie.com

Beachcomber Reclining Beach Mat $48.95, Beachstore.com

SafeGo Portable Safe $39.95, Beachstore.com gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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health

Leave Them at the Door...

Please

by NICOLE GERMANY

Shoes are an essential part of our life.

They protect our little toes from harm and they complete our outfits on any given day. They’re something we simply can’t live without. But, as important as they are outside, we should we really keep them off of the carpet and floors inside our home.

During a study conducted at the University of Arizona, 10 participants wore new shoes for two weeks to see what exactly our shoes track in, and the results were astounding. On average there was 421,000 units of bacteria on the outside of the shoe and 2,887 on the inside. These staggering numbers showed bacteria that included E. coli (meningitis and diarrheal disease), Klebsiella pneumoniae (a common source for wound and bloodstream infections as well as pneumonia) and Serratia ficaria (a rare cause of infections in the respiratory tract and wounds).

Not only are these deadly bacteria hiding in plain sight, but were also the No. 1

cause of them getting into our homes.

Other things that can be just as harmful to our health when tracked in are coal tar (from asphalt roads), dirt, bugs, lead and herbicides from lawn care.

Besides the obvious harm dirty shoes bring into the house, they’re the archenemy to any person that likes a tidy house. Wearing shoes on hard floors mean more wear and tear on floor surfaces, and any shoe covered in dirt and muck means more cleaning and scrubbing on carpets, so it’s

important to practice your best pitch when asking guests and family members to remove shoes.

These conversations can oftentimes be tricky, but the best way to make your guests/family feel at ease is to make them feel like they’re entering a relaxed environment. Approach the situation in a laid back manner so they’re less likely to make a fuss about taking their shoes off before entering, and lead them to the best place to remove their shoes. ✽

How Do I Ask Guests to Take off Shoes Without Seeming Rude?

• Buy a fun doormat • Create a clever “shoe valet” to park your shoes • Decorate an entryway mudroom that helps take the subject off the shoes • Have fun socks or slippers for guests to put on in place of shoes • Practice what you’re going to say so you can ask confidently and casually • Design a sign to put outside or put big bold stickers on the floor

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© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

An important part of restricting shoes to certain areas is designating a spot for shoes. Try coming up with creative ways of helping guests remember to remove them.

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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health

Staying Safe in the Summer Sun

BY NICOLE IRVING

Summer days and beautiful Florida weather mean one thing — lots of time spent outdoors. However, with temperatures in the upper 90s and high humidity, you and your little ones can burn yourselves out quickly in the summer heat.

The Children’s Hospital of Wisconsin breaks down how to recognize, prevent and treat some common and serious heat-related ailments.

Heat cramps

Blisters

Heat Exhaustion

How

How

This is caused when skin rubs too much against clothes/shoes.

This is caused by overexposure to heat as well as dehydration.

How

Signs

Signs

Signs

Small bubble of raised skin filled with clear fluid

Treatment

Cover with Band-Aid. Do not puncture, as the unbroken skin acts as a natural barrier to bacteria and infection.

1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Wash hands Clean blister with iodine Sterilize a needle Puncture blister, and let drain Leave the skin on top intact (this will reduce the risk of infection) 6. Apply ointment and Band-Aid If infected, seek medical attention.

Severity Rating: X

Muscle cramps and spasms Flushed, moist skin Mild fever, usually lower than 102 F

Treatment 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

Move to a cool, shady place Remove unnecessary clothing Place cool cloths on skin Fan skin Slowly drink a cool sports drink like Gatorade®, which has sugar, salt and electrolytes 6. Help them stretch cramped muscles slowly and gently *Call your doctor to follow up Severity Rating: XX

• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Muscle cramps Heaving Sweating Pale skin Dizziness Fast and weak pulse Fever, usually higher than 102 F Nausea Vomiting Diarrhea Headache Fatigue Weakness Feeling faint

Treatment 1.

2.

3.

4.

Move to a cool, shady spot Remove unnecessary clothing Place cool cloths on the skin and fan skin Slowly drink a cool sports drink like Gatorade®, which has sugar, salt and electrolytes

*Call your doctor to follow up Severity Rating: XXX

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© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

If a blister causes pain, drain it using the following steps. Always consult a doctor.

• • •

This is caused when there is a loss of water and salt in the body.

Heat stroke How

This is caused when the body’s temperature control system fails due to extreme heat. This is life threatening and can lead to seizures, coma or even death.

Signs • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Warm, red, dry skin High fever, usually higher than 104 F Rapid heartbeat Loss of appetite Nausea Vomiting Headache Fatigue Confusion Agitation Dizziness Lethargy Unconsciousness

Treatment 1.

2.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

Call 911 immediately Remove unnecessary clothing Immerse the affected in cool water If alert, drink cool fluids Fan skin Place ice bags in groin area, armpits, neck and back Move to a cool, shady place

Severity Rating: XXXx

!

Heat Rash How

A skin irritation caused by excessive sweating during hot, humid weather. Heat rash looks like a red cluster of pimples or small blisters.

Signs

It is more likely to occur on the neck and upper chest, in the groin, under the breasts and in elbow creases.

How to prevent temperature-related illness and injury •

Know the temperature, humidity levels and heat index prior to going outside for any length of time.

•

Drink plenty of water and make sure to have a cooler with extra water and ice nearby.

If a rash appears, keep the area dry and use powder.

•

Wear loose fitting clothes along with hats and sunglasses.

Severity Rating: X

•

Carry a misting spray bottle.

•

Consume low salt and sugar meals.

•

Avoid caffeinated drinks like coffee, tea and soda. ✽

Treatment

Sources: http://emergency.cdc.gov/disasters/extremeheat/faq.asp http://www.chw.org/medical-care/sports-medicine/ conditions/heat-illness/

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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learn Keeping Your Family Safe from

Hot Car Fatalities by danielle pastula

It is something we hear on the news, but none of us ever imagine that it could happen to our own families.

Although many of us think we would never make this fatal mistake, a simple change in routine or a distracted mind are often the most common culprits in hot car deaths.

Because no parent or caregiver is immune to making mistakes, it’s important that we guard ourselves with awareness, information and preventative measures to keep our children safe from vehicular heatstroke.

The Reality of Heatstroke According to KidsandCars.org, “On average, 38 children die in hot cars each year from heat-related deaths after being trapped inside motor vehicles.” That’s a staggering average of one death every nine days.

Heatstroke occurs when internal body temperature exceeds 104 F. Once the body reaches a core temperature of 107 F, cells are damaged and vital organs begin to shut down, which quickly leads to death.

Children do not have fully developed thermoregulatory systems and their body temperatures rise three to five times faster than adults. Even knowingly leaving your child unattended in the car for a few minutes as you run into the store or back into the house to grab something you forgot can be dangerous and even fatal.

Researchers found that two-thirds of the total temperature rise inside a vehicle occurred within the first 20 minutes of leaving a car unattended. This rapid temperature rise occurs because the heat entering the

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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “When temperatures outside range from 80 degrees to 100 degrees, the temperature inside a car parked in direct sunlight can quickly climb to between 130 to 172.”

The Law

Prevention Tips Again, all it takes is a simple change in routine or a distraction for a hot car death to occur. Using these simple prevention tips can be the difference between life and death.

Ever wonder what you would do if you saw a child in a car unattended?

Thankfully, Gov. Rick Scott recently passed a bill, HB131, providing immunity from civil liability if having to break into a locked vehicle to rescue a person or pets believed to be in danger of overheating.

Place a trigger item next to your child’s car seat, such as your purse, cellphone or your left shoe. Those are things that will trigger you to turn around and look at the back seat because you’ll most likely need them, whether you’re running errands, going to work or returning home.

This bill protects good Samaritans from liability when saving a child from a hot car, but some guidelines must still be followed:

Create a “look before you lock” routine.

Make sure your cellphone is stowed away and that you consciously look to the back of your car before locking the doors.

1. Check to see if any doors are unlocked.

Talk to your daycare providers and ask that they contact you if your child does not arrive at daycare as scheduled.

!

2. Call 911 or law enforcement either before or immediately after breaking into the vehicle.

3. Only use the necessary amount of force to break in.

4. Remain with the person, child or animal until first responders arrive on the scene.

Keep your car keys and remote openers out of reach of children, and make sure your doors are locked at all times, even when your vehicle is in the garage or driveway.

Talk to your kids and make it clear that the car is not a play area and it is only to be entered when you are with them. ✽

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

The Heat Factor In a study conducted by the American Academy of Pediatrics, the temperature change in enclosed cars with ambient temperatures between 72 and 96 F was recorded and analyzed. According to the study, after 30 minutes the internal temperature of an enclosed car increases an average of 34 degrees. After one to two hours that number jumps to 45–50 degrees.

car through the windows is absorbed by objects in the car such as the dashboard, seats and steering wheel, which then heat the surrounding air in the car similar to a convection oven. It’s this method of heating that can cause car temperatures to rise rapidly and to an extremely high level, even when the outside temperature is moderate.

10% off

Bring in this magazine and receive

your first appointment!

Early Gender Determination at 15 weeks • Sneak A Peek 3D Photos and 4D Video • Your Baby Boutique, Gifts & Apparel and More

850 765-6141 • bowtiesortutus.com • The Pavilions, 1410 Market Street A-2, Tallahassee, FL 32312. (Next to My Favorite Things & Momo’s Pizza)43 gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

Meet our Hottie Dads 2016 winner, joe piotrowski!

44

In the words of wife, Alishia  "joe is the most amazing father that i could have ever dreamed of for our daughter. ever since we found out we were expecting a girl, he has called her 'little miss magic', and even sang the song to her while she was still growing in my belly. joe says that it is his responsibility to show emily how a woman should be treated adn that the best way to do that is to treat her mother that way. he does just that! emily and i are beyond blessed to have this hottie dad to call our own!" gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

MEET OUR 2 0 1 6

PHOTOS BY ASHLEY DANIELL PHOT OGRAPHY

joe piotrowski Proprietor at Ted's Montana Grill Dad to Emily, 4 months What is the hardest part about being a dad?

The hardest part is leaving her. I want to spend every moment with her, but of course I have work and other responsibilities and can’t be there at all times.

What part of parenting scares you the most?

Since I have a daughter, the quick answer would be boys! Outside of that, it’s the fact that I only have one chance to get this right.

There are no do-overs in raising a child. I want to make sure that I do all that I can to grow her into a good person.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

So far the most memorable moment has been actually becoming a dad. In the seconds after she was born, I walked over to Emily while the doctors were attending to my wife. She was so tiny and crying. As I attempted to calm her, she reached out and grabbed my finger with her tiny little hand. At that moment we created a bond that will never, ever be broken. I stared

at her for what felt like an eternity (but was probably only seconds), and I knew that in an instant my life had been completely changed.

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

OK, so this may sound childish, but you asked.

Every morning she wakes up with her eyes full of wonder. She sees me and smiles. She has the most innocent eyes and it’s like you can see the world in front of her. It’s almost majestic. Then she stretches … and poots. Every morning. Call me immature, but it’s funny!

Who is the biggest influence on your parenting style?

My mom and dad have both had a great influence on my parenting style. They have always said that, though they have had a great life, they want me to have an even better one.

That is how I feel about Emily. I have an amazing life. I have a wife that I adore, a job that I am proud to do and I am surrounded by friends and family that are honest and genuine.

We have been fortunate enough to travel and create amazing memories. But I want Emily to do and see more. Like my parents, I want my child to have an even better life than the one that I am living … and honestly, this life will be tough to beat.

Do you have a special meal you cook?

Currently, I am only serving the house white to Emily (that’s what I jokingly call it).

My wife is committed to breastfeeding and I’m doing everything I can to support her through all of the challenges that it entails.

As far as adult meals are concerned, being in the restaurant industry I pride myself on my cooking skills and do the majority of the cooking in our house. I’m sure Emily will like my food when she gets old enough, and hopefully I can get her to enjoy a few vegetables.

Which TV or movie dad is the most like you?

I would have to say George Banks from the movie “Father of the Bride.” He loves his daughter and has a close relationship with her. He has provided her with great opportunities and takes pride in her success and independence. His only downfall is that, though she is grown, he still sees her as his little girl, and I know that is something that I will struggle with eventually as well. It’s hard to imagine a day when I will not be the most important man in Emily’s life, but I’m sure, like George, I will learn to accept it. gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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gjergj ndoja Director of finance & Technology at Leadership florida Dad to Alexander, 3 ½ and oliver, 1 What is the best part about being a dad?

Seeing the growth of better versions of myself.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

We like projects that allow us to build with our hands. We recently built a cornhole game set. Both boys participated in painting it. Alexander really got into the build. He especially loves the saw and asked to use only the saw throughout the whole project.

What part of parenting scares you the most?

I try not to think about fear too much, but instead focus on giving my children all the guidance needed for them to succeed and be happy in life.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

Usually kids learn “Mama” and “Dada” as their first words, but both of my boys learned an Albanian (my native language) word first — “drita,” which means light.

We have a chandelier in our dining room and it took me repeating the word only a few times for each one of them to say it back. This happened with both of them around the age of 1.

Who is the biggest influence on your parenting style?

My parents, who taught me how to love unconditionally.

Do you have a special meal you cook?

I really enjoy cooking, but my kids (especially one of them) can put my skills to the test. I am often limited as to what I can serve. So to answer the question, I love to prepare a killer, irresistible toast with butter.

Describe your parenting style in 3 words.

Protective, sensitive and loving.

What is something you learned from your dad that you want to make sure you do?

I learned from him what seems to be an unlimited amount of patience. From that kind of approach, all lessons in my life became so much more meaningful, and I want to try my best to do the same for my children.

What is the one thing that you hope your children learn from you?

I want them to learn to dream big, bigger than I ever could.

In the words of wife, Hester  "gjerjg is our family's 'renaissance man'! he can do anything, and if he doesn't know how, he teaches himself. i am a lucky woman to have him as my partner. he loves to roll around on the ground with the boys and teach them how to use the hammer, paint brush, camera or drum sticks. I just hope he passes along the cooking skills."

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joe higgins Veteran Housing Specialist for the Big Bend Homeless Coalition Dad to allie, 6 What is the best part about being a dad?

The best part is having someone that loves you, regardless of your faults, and truly believes that you hung the moon. My daughter thinks that I am the smartest, strongest and most highly skilled individual on Earth. While raising children isn’t about boosting one’s ego, it’s amazing to see that little girl light up when I do the most ordinary of tasks.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

Perhaps my most memorable dad moment was the very first diaper change the night after my daughter was born. My wife had a particularly difficult labor process, and after 10 hours or so of pushing, straining and severe pain, the medical staff finally concluded that she wasn’t ever going to fully dilate, so an emergency C-section had to be ordered. My wife was recovering from that severe surgery, so she was not able to fully move and assist during the epic diaper fiasco. I’ve heard many stories regarding the severity of an infant’s first … uh … dirty diaper, but my child did her best to put all else to shame. This incident was a global killer, and made the Exxon Valdez spill look like an oil stain on your parent’s driveway. My wife and I were beyond tired, my daughter was absolutely screaming and I quickly realized that I had never in my life changed a baby’s diaper.

Learning to change a diaper is no big deal, but learning to change a diaper that resembles an ecological nightmare tends to add to the difficulty rating. My daughter was screaming, my wife was yelling, “YOU’RE DOING IT WRONG!” and it was a sober reminder of what I had just gotten myself into. I only wish I had it on tape to show to her prom date.

Which TV or movie dad is the most like you?

The father from “Modern Family” because I’m simply a child at heart that never stops screwing things up in a comedic fashion while trying to be there for my family.

Do you have a special meal you cook?

My wife is a far superior cook than I, and the kitchen is most certainly her domain. I am forever impressed with her ability to take ordinary ingredients and turn them into meals that make me shake my head in amazement. As far as special meals I prepare, I would have to say Cuban-style roasted pork and marinated leg of lamb with fresh creamed corn. It was the first meal I made for my wife when we began dating, and I knew I had her hooked!

In the words of wife, Stefanie  "My husband is the epitome of the 'complete package.' Just like a superhero he wears many capes, but his most important cape is one he never takes off. He is a chauffeur, boo-boo fixer, tea party attendee, class trip chaperone, homework helper, animal facts expert and the best pretend kitty cat I have ever seen. joe is a true 'hottie dad' and we are so lucky that he is ours." gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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brad casper sales consultant at pollard water dad to Nikolai, 23, Miranda, 20, Joey, 17 and maddy, 10 What is the best part about being a dad?

There are so many things. The one very best thing? Watching the kids growing up and becoming their own person. We're supposed to do what we can to help get them there, but it's great seeing how they develop and grow as people.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

Going through the routine of getting my daughter to wake up for school in the mornings and taking her to the bus and kissing her goodbye (on the top of her head, as she is finally that tall!). I've also spent years taking all of our kids to events like soccer and other school stuff. I also cook dinner for the family most nights, which is one of the ways I take care of them.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

When my daughter was born was really special. So was the time I took the three older kids to Europe to meet up with their mom, who was studying over there, when I was their brand new stepdad. And all the travel we've done — we've had a lot of fun together.

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

There have been so many! These kids are all funny. I think I realized how funny they were when I first came into the oldest kids' lives and started hanging out at their house more.

Joey, the youngest of the three, was 6 and he asked me, "Don't you have a home?" And I said “Yes,” and he said, "Are you going to go there?!" (I guess I hung out there a lot!)

Once, we were camping and Maddy, our youngest, looked over beyond the campfire in the dark, and started yelling, "A thing!

A thing! A thing!" We all almost fell out of our lawn chairs when we realized it was just a little opossum and she just couldn't figure out what to call it in her excitement.

What is one superhero power you wish you had to help with parenting?

I wish I had Spider-Man's webs so I could stick the kids to the walls and keep them still. Or Doc Octopus’s extra mechanical arms so I could get more done faster!

What is the one thing that you hope your children learn from you?

The biggest thing for me is for them to be themselves, enjoy life and care about those they love.

In the words of wife, KAthleen  "throughout the last ten years we've been married, we have been foster parents and host home families to multiple kids...we are now new grandparents and brad is a trooper and still manages to smile through all our chaos. I couldn't do it all without him."

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conception2college™  expecting The Hardest Goodbye...to Date

 infant | 0-1 Baby Needs a New Pair of Shoes

 toddler | 2-3 Let’s Get Crafty!

 early years | 4-5 Calming Those Kindergarten Nerves — for Both Parents and Kids!

 kids | 6-9 Too Young to Wear That?

 tweens | 10-13 When Is It Smart to Get Your Child a Smartphone?

 Teens | 14-18

Photo by Ashley Daniell Photography.

Hazing in High School: It Can Happen

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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c2c

expecting

pregnancy

The Hardest Goodbye...to Date

BY NICOLE IRVING

I am truly blessed. I have three amazing boys who are healthy, happy and full of energy and life. They are smart, sassy and compassionate. They have their dad’s freckles and my eyes.

They are the perfect mixture of both of us … and, we won’t be having any more.

We won’t be having any more.

At almost 40, I knew that my risks for complications were growing. With three boys, and a three-bedroom house, I knew space was limited. As a business owner, teacher and community member, I knew I was limited on time. We had finally gotten to a place where there were no more diaper bags, strollers, bottles or formula. The boys could finally all feed and dress themselves!

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The hardest part was saying goodbye to that era of my life. I would never be pregnant again. I would never experience someone kicking me or having hiccups that only I could feel. Never again would I experience the special connection only a mother can have with the child growing inside her. There would be no more diapers, pacifiers, or mommy and me classes; no more first bath, first steps or first haircut. I checked off all of those boxes, never to repeat.

That was a hard pill to swallow.

Because, let’s be real, in today’s world we can usually go back and repeat things.

College, driving tests, selfies … we just get a do-over and keep going. Nothing is ever really final. But, for me, this was a decision not to be undone.

In essence, I was mourning my baby bearing years. Mourning a time that went by so quickly and innocently. Mourning feelings and emotions that only I could understand, and although my brain told me it was going to be OK, my heart was sad to see it go.

So, as with any loss, I have gone through the stages of mourning, and now I am on the other side. I have come to terms with it, made peace with this decision and am moving on and focusing on all the blessings I have in my life: three amazing boys, a successful business and career, and the wonderful friends and life I have.

It is time for a new set of firsts! ✽

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Two years ago, we made the decision together to stay a family of five. There were many reasons behind our personal decision to not have any more children.

On paper these reasons seemed worthy.

Mentally, I understood them, but my heart took a bit longer to catch up.

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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infant

ages 0-1

Baby Needs a New Pair of Shoes

BY OLIVIA K PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Who can resist buying those Weeboks or mini Mary Janes?

Finding cute outfits and the shoes to compliment them is like reliving our childhoods when we dressed up our dolls! However, it’s one thing to put shoes on our poor, patient kiddos for pictures, and another to find the right walking shoe for baby’s first steps.

Podiatrist Earlie Hairston recommends waiting until your baby starts walking before putting shoes on him. A baby’s foot is always developing, and pediatricians recommend allowing the baby to walk barefoot or in nonskid socks so the foot continues to grow outside the confines of a shoe.

A baby learns to walk by gripping the ground with his toes and using his heel

for stability. When your child begins walking outside, shoes should be used for protection.

“When purchasing shoes for a baby, make sure there is a supportive arch since babies have flat feet,” said Hairston. Lightweight shoes with non-skid soles, such as sneakers, are best to keep your child steady. Check the shoe’s fit every month.

The distance between the child’s big toe and the inside edge of the shoe should be about the width of your finger.

Since a baby’s foot changes size every two or three months, it might be tempting to use big sister’s old shoes rather than spend money on a new pair. But Hairston advises against this.

“Avoid hand-me-down shoes because the integrity of the shoe might be compromised, such as the sole or the arch,” he said.

A new walker’s little penguin waddle is adorable, but what is normal? If your child is walking on the balls of her feet or with her toes pointed inward, this is a normal developmental stage. However, if these traits continue past age 2, you should talk to your pediatrician. Other potential issues to look for include limping (with or without pain) and having no interest in walking after she has turned 15 months old. While frequent falling is to be expected in the early walking stages, if it continues, coupled with the inability or difficulty to get back up again, please talk to your doctor. ✽

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In a word, yes! Growing up, it seemed like every baby’s nursery had bronzed shoes sitting atop the dresser. Nowadays, it’s not just bronze; you can have your baby’s shoes preserved in pewter, silver and even gold!

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Walk this way

Do they still bronze baby shoes?

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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toddler

ages 2-3

Let’s Get Crafty!

by NICOLE IRVING

Stamping You will amaze them by turning their favorite fruits and veggies into fun and active stamps.

Materials: • Carrots • Potatoes • Apples • Cardstock

Have him pick out his paint colors and pour an ample amount on a paper plate or use a stamp pad.

Demonstrate what he is going to do by using the fruit or veggie like a stamp. Once he sees this, he will be anxious to try, so let him stamp till his heart’s content.

Choose one or two of the best and frame them for grandparents or mom and dad. Don’t forget to label with his name and the date!

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2.

22 Discard anything that is sticky, broken

4. There is no need to use anything sharp. If you do need to, make sure your kiddo is safe and secure away from knives/scissors.

Painting Everyone loves pet rocks. This is a fun craft that includes a bit of a scavenger hunt and colorful exploration.

Materials: • Smooth rocks, all different sizes • Water-soluble paint • Brushes • Sharpie (for mom and dad) • Newspaper • Paper plates

At home, wash rocks and dry thoroughly.

Then cover the table with newspaper.

Have her pick out her favorite colors and place the paint on a paper plate. On a separate plate, have her rock ready to go for painting.

As she is painting, create a story to go with her new rock friend. Let her give it a name, etc.

Once she is done painting, set the rock aside to dry.

When the rock is dry, have her tell you if she wants eyes, ears, etc. and use a Sharpie to decorate. Don’t do anything without asking first. This can lead to a major meltdown.

Write the date and her initials at the bottom.

(Any extra can be given as gifts!)

5. Keep your child in a booster chair while crafting. This way he will be safe and sturdy up at the table and not be able to get down and run around.

6. Just do one activity at a time. This will help with cleanup, especially if a meltdown ensues.

7.

Keep wipes handy!

8. Do not leave your child unattended at the table with crafts. Disaster could strike at any moment!

Clay This is an easy craft to do with your toddler, and it is the perfect item to display and use for show and tell! (Grandparents love this stuff!)

Materials: • Hardening clay • Printout of simple numbers, letters or shapes • Cutting board Directions: Knead the clay until it is soft enough for your child to play with.

Give her clumps of clay and let her pick an object to try to build. Cheer her on as she tries to mimic her chosen item.

Lay the clay out to dry until hard, and then host a gallery at dinnertime to show off her creations. ✽

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Once he is done, place his work of art on the table to dry.

up high to avoid little hands touching when you’re not looking.

3. Only do what you think your child can handle. Crafts are all dependent on age and maturity level.

• Paper plates Directions: • Newspaper Take your little one on a scavenger hunt • Water-soluble paint around the yard and neighborhood. Have her or stamp pad search for some fun rocks. Look in common areas or parks.

Directions: While your child is safe in his booster seat, cut your vegetables in halves or quarters.

1. Label and store all crafts in plastic bins

or a mess. You’re never going to use it again, and you certainly won’t miss it. Keep your craft space clean and organized.

You probably see the word “craft” and say “No way!” Crafting with toddlers may bring to mind lumps of ooey-gooey play dough, stamp pads and Popsicle sticks that create a mess on the dining room table. Trust me, I have been there.

However, for your toddler, simple crafting is both educational and fun. Sure, they are going to make a mess, but they are supposed to — they are toddlers, after all!

But, with some organization, simplicity and a whole lot of baby wipes, crafting at this young age can inspire the little artist or crafter in your kiddo.

Tips for crafting with toddlers

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early years

ag e s 4 - 5

Calming Those Kindergarten Nerves — for Both Parents and Kids!

BY SHELLIE MCSWAIN, kindergarten teacher for 13 years

Starting kindergarten can be a nerve-racking experience for both you and your child. For some children, kindergarten marks the first time that they will spend a prolonged period of time away from family, which can be hard for your kiddo (and you!) to adapt to.

But kindergarten doesn’t have to be scary! The following tips will help to kick those nerves and get you and your child excited for the start of school. ▶ How can parents calm their kiddo’s nerves?

As a mom of two and a kindergarten teacher, I have found that a positive and reassuring attitude is always best.

Communicating to your child that you are confident in his new school and teacher will help him to feel better about his new adventures in kindergarten. You should also help him to understand that kindergarten may be very different from his experience in preschool — not better or worse, just different.

If a child has never been to school before, starting kindergarten can be a little intimidating. Visiting as many group activities as possible over the summer, like the children’s book time at the public library or other short, structured activities with other children in her age group, is very helpful. While she is enjoying the adult-led

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▶ What kinds of things can parents do during the summer to help their kids become adjusted to kindergarten?

With both of my children, I did a “Countdown to Kindergarten” during the summer months. Each day on the countdown had a fun school-related activity for them to do that helped them to gear up, review information that they had previously learned in preschool and get excited about starting school. You can find many premade examples of “Kindergarten Countdowns” online.

▶ What should parents expect in their first day/week of kindergarten?

The first week of kindergarten is very tiring for most kids. Even if your child has never been a napper, expect him to

be exhausted from a long day of having fun learning at school. He may need some extra rest in the first few weeks until he has adjusted to the routine. Your child will also probably be hungrier than usual due to making the switch from being able to snack throughout the day to more scheduled eating times, so be ready with a snack after school.

!

Parents should expect many papers to be filled out, letters from the teacher, classroom schedules, supply lists, procedural information and getting-to-know-your-family questionnaires to come home within the first few weeks of school. It will be very important for your child to be on the lookout for these important papers so you can stay well-informed.

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

▶ If they have never been to school before, what is the first thing that parents should do to help them adjust?

activity, try to be as hands off as possible so that she can have the experience with your support from a distance.

▶ What is normal behavior for parents to see in their kiddos?

Besides being more tired than usual, parents may see some worry over making new friends or not knowing the routine of the kindergarten day in the first weeks of school, even for those children who have attended preschool. Reassurance from parents that all of these things will come in time and modeling the basics of how to make new friends will help to put your child’s mind at ease.

▶ As a parent, should you let them see you cry?

Should be you nervous? What should you do to stay calm?

Although it is important for your child to understand that feelings of nervousness or anxiety are normal, allowing your child to see you cry as she starts her new adventure in kindergarten without you by her side is a bad idea. Children may feel that they are the cause of your nervousness or that there is some reason to be scared of the new experience. It is essential that your child feel your trust in the teacher and the school that she will be attending. So, put on a brave face; you are both going to make it!

▶ What should you NOT do as a parent during the first day/week?

You can feel confident that your child’s teacher knows what to do with your child when he steps through the door on the first day.

Walking him in, giving him some supportive words along with his hug and kiss goodbye and then setting him free will go a long way to helping him understand that everything will be just fine. If your child is feeling nervous and a little clingy, that is normal, but the longer you stick around, the harder it will be for him to start feeling more comfortable without you there. Kindergarten is a place of new beginnings and the start of your child understanding that he is capable of being independent. Cheer him on! ✽

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kids

ages 6-9

Too Young to Wear That?

BY JESSICA KERR

And then she turned 7.

She decided that the smocked dresses and precious ensembles that adorned her closet would only be church and holiday appropriate from that point on. (I actually

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negotiated that last part; she was ready to ditch them all together.) I may or may not have cried.

Enter the end of smocking and our introduction to the “tween section” of our local favorite shopping spot. Cue some sort of scary music, because holy moly.

Short shorts, crop tops, suggestive bathing suits and graphic tees with phrases like “Totally Not Impressed” and “Cute After Coffee” filled my vision and made me dizzy. Meanwhile, as I was spiraling down a tunnel of denial and despair, my girl’s eyes lit up like fireworks on the Fourth of July. She wanted it all. The denim cutoffs with the lace detail up the side, the animal print one-piece bathing suit with the sides and stomach cut out, the “I’m Fluent in Emojis” (“Mama, what are emojis? Can

I have some?!”) graphic tee, and the sleeveless sundress that came with a mesh cardigan, complete with rhinestone button closure, all caught her eye.

I was in complete shock. I vividly remember tracking down a sales associate just to verify that the little girl’s section definitely ended in 6X. I already knew the answer, but I had to double check. I wasn’t ready for this stage. And then I realized that neither was she. She was 7. (Side note: Is 7 even “tween” age? I am honestly not sure.)

What I am sure of is that it appeared clothing designers and the stores that bought their clothes for resale were trying to sexualize my daughter right before my eyes. She was being actively taught that she should abandon the innocence of her size 6, appropriate length, ruffle shorts because the size 7 that she had graduated to warranted shorter, sexier, curvier shorts with frayed edges and lace detail. What?

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

I have always enjoyed dressing my daughter. From the moment the ultrasound tech said “girl,” visions of darling smocked dresses, big hair bows and precious ensembles flashed in my head. Like any good, self-respecting southern mama, I overindulged. I’m talking enough outfits to change seven times a day and a plethora of coordinating, themed outfits for every occasion. Presidents Day? Check! Arbor Day? Done. National Doughnut Day? I had an outfit for that. My daughter relished in her dressing, often choosing a matching hair bow and set of sandals without prompt. She delighted in looking sweet and put together.

Why? And distracting her away with the promise of jetting over to another store was no better, with their aptly named “short shorts” in the Girls section.

Why are these our options?

Why are we being essentially forced, through lack of choice, into doing this to our daughters? Mainstream clothing options teach them that they should highlight their non-existent breasts with tops and bathing suits sewed to do so and flaunt their thighs with shorts that would be more appropriately sized for a toddler. I swear my daughter looked like Daisy Duke herself, walking out of the dressing room. She was thrilled. And it was not OK. I am still new to this new world of tween dressing. I am

still navigating the unsteady waters of teaching my 7-yearold daughter why the shorts she wants so desperately are not appropriate and why the half-tee that reads “But First a #selfie” will not be happening.

I have found that simple cotton tees are still out there, interspersed throughout the patterns and graphics that so readily catch her eye, and that there are actually some stores that carry non-super duper short shorts. Score! This is not to say that we do not own some of the lesser of evil options that I have referred to here; it is inevitable. And I still frequent our favorite stores. But, I will continue to teach her that strong, not sultry, is beautiful.

And I will pray that she holds fast to those words as she navigates the aisles of clothes, and life. ✽

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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tweens

ag e s 1 0 - 1 3

When Is It Smart to Get Your Child a Smartphone?

BY OLIVIA K PITKETHLY, MA, LMHC

Smartphones are becoming more and more of a necessity for the tween crowd.

Tweens are rarely off the grid, and they use their phones for both communication and entertainment. I recently had dinner with friends whose three adolescent children were plugged in for the majority of the meal. They socialized with each other and obeyed their parents when it was time to unplug, so they appeared to be mature enough to handle this responsibility.

How do you know if your child is ready for this privilege? Here are a few questions to consider.

Why does my tween want a phone?

Because everyone else does!” And, that’s probably true. “My daughter got her phone at the end of fifth grade and was the last kid in her class to have one,” said Cathy Coverini, mom of one. “It was just a flip phone because it was used to call me for emergencies only.

Some kids feel the peer pressure of getting a phone and worry about feeling excluded.

If a tween’s friends have made plans with each other through text message, but she was not informed because she didn’t have a phone, she might experience sadness, loneliness and jealousy. Socializing with friends increases in importance at this age, and if a child feels like she doesn’t fit in, it could have a lasting impact on self-esteem.

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How do I talk to my kids about sexting?

Peer pressure isn’t reserved for the locker room or playground. Kids are faced with pressure even more so if they are “connected.” I’ve heard of many tweens who have met someone on Kik or Snapchat and have been asked to send a naked picture or video of themselves.

According to a study from the University of Texas, 28 percent of teens admitted to sending a sext. Of those who were propositioned to send one, 76.2 percent admitted to having sexual intercourse.

Be open and honest with your kids about sexting, just as you would when talking about sex. Let them know that their actions will have consequences. For instance, what if the picture is shown

around school? Twenty-five percent of kids forward the pictures or videos to someone else. There are also the legal ramifications to consider. In Florida, children who send or receive texts with nudity face misdemeanor charges for the first two offenses. A third offense brings felony charges. Children with a higher self-esteem are less likely to succumb to peer pressure, so be sure to monitor how your tween views his/her self. ✽

Setting up parental control on smartphones For the iPhone:

Go to settings > general > restrictions > switch to “on.” Parents can restrict content, apps, purchases and privacy settings with a personal passcode.

For the Android:

Go to settings > users > add user or profile > restricted profile. Set up a profile and view the apps installed on your child’s phone. You can select those apps with which you are comfortable, including web browsers.

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

Is my child ready for this responsibility?

Take into account other responsibilities your child has. Does he do his homework or chores without being prompted? How are his grades? Does he have respect for his belongings? Answering these questions will help determine if he is mature enough to have a phone. Openly discuss that having a phone is a privilege and he or she will have to meet regular expectations to keep it. “My son just got his for his 12th birthday only because of bus breakdowns and baseball practice,” said Laurie Wohl, mom of one. “It’s a burner phone with very little data, so no playing unless he’s home on Wi-Fi. We have full access to everything on it and he’s responsible for charging it.” Wohl also said that when her son first received the phone, he used a month’s worth of data in two days, so explaining the rules multiple times may be in order.

How can I monitor what my child does on his phone?

In my practice, I’ve spoken to parents who have taken away their teen’s phone due to getting poor grades or sending inappropriate text or video messages, and that is a very reasonable consequence.

Let your child know what will not be acceptable phone practice and what are grounds for restriction. Programs such as TeenSafe and TheOneSpy can monitor your tween’s phone activity, including deleted messages and pictures, as well as posts on social media.

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ag e s 1 4 - 1 8

teens

Hazing in High School:

It Can Happen

BY LISA KATZ

As parents, we typically associate the term hazing with college campuses and binge drinking. How many times in the course of your parenting journey have you said, “It won’t happen to my kids”? But it might. Today, hazing is not only limited to colleges and, sadly, it has been taking place more frequently in high schools settings.

Hazing is any action taken or any situation created intentionally that causes embarrassment, harassment or ridicule and risks emotional and/or physical harm to members of a group or team, whether new or not, regardless of the person’s willingness to participate.

-HazingPrevention.org

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

In high schools, hazing accidents have been documented in such settings as bands, athletic teams, academic clubs and even honor societies. Incidents have also occurred in club sports and in performing arts organizations.

The important question to ask is, why is hazing occurring? The answer is complex, but stems from children having a longing to fit in with a group. They will typically go along with what the other, often more popular, kids are doing to fit in or establish their presence in the organization. Kids often feel that those who desire to be a part of their group, whatever group that is, should go through some kind of initiation to prove their worthiness. Hazing has grown out of this initiation.

Most often, hazing is about power and having control.

In 2008, the University of Maine published their findings from the National Study of Student Hazing. This study concluded that 47 percent of all high school students have actually experienced some type of hazing.

That is almost half of all high school students!

According to Insidehazing.com, the statistics regarding high school hazing are alarming. One and a half million high school students are hazed each year, but the scariest part is that 92 percent of high school students said they would not report a hazing. Of these respondents, 59 percent knew of hazing activities and 21 percent admitted to having been involved in hazing.

Teenagers showcase their feelings in many ways, but when there is a sudden change in behavior, weight or temperament, parents should investigate further. According to Hazingprevention.org, victims of hazing may experience a change in sleeping or eating habits, withdrawal from normal activities, unexplained injuries or illness, a sudden decrease in communication with friends, or a need to leave an organization they have been a part of, with no real explanation.

Hank Nuwer, author of “High School Hazing: When Rites Become Wrongs” suggests several ways to prevent hazing in high schools, including encouraging schools to adopt a statement of awareness and a zero-tolerance attitude regarding hazing.

He also suggests that schools establish a welcome program for new students and avoid covering up instances of hazing.

Parents also play a key role in reducing hazing. Educate your children about treating others kindly and having respect for classmates. Let them know that you will not tolerate any sort of hazing behavior. If you suspect any hazing in a school setting, you must inform the school.

Most often, hazing is about power and having control. It may have grown out of the idea of initiating a new member into a group, but unfortunately, these initiations have devolved into demeaning and often harmful experiences for newbies. Parents should look out for the various warning signs hazing and guide their children to get help and report the incident. ✽

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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FROM GIGGLE MAGAZINE

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happy community

June 2

June 12

July 4

6 – 9 p.m.

The Shops at Lake Ella Visittallahassee.com

1 – 3 p.m.

Tallahassee Museum Tallahasseemuseum.org

July 4

Food Truck Thursday

June 5

Lake Ella Sunday Brunch 11 a.m. – 2 p.m.

The Shops at Lake Ella Visittallahassee.com June 4

Night Prowl: Guided Museum Tour 7 – 8:30 pm Tallahassee Museum Tallahasseemuseum.org June 3 – 6

Tallahassee Latin Dance Festival

© 2016 iStockphoto LP. All rights reserved.

J u n e / J u ly c a l e n d a r

Friday: 8 p.m. – 2:30 a.m.

Saturday and Sunday: 10:30 a.m. – 2:30 a.m.

The Moon Conference Center Tallylatindancefest.com June 10 – 11

Ride for Hope

Rides start at 6:30 a.m. on Saturday North Florida Fairgrounds Imathlete.com June 11

Great Potluck Bash 4-Mile Prediction Run 2016 6 – 9 p.m.

Gulf Winds Track Club Eventbrite.com

Canning Tomatoes

June 14

Flag Day at Downtown Tallahassee Marketplace

9 a.m. – 2 p.m.

Downtown Tallahassee Marketplace Tallahasseedowntown.com June 19

Father’s Day June 19 - 30

Father’s Day 5K

Virtual 5K to be completed when and where you choose in the month of June!

Moonjoggers.com June 25

Big Bend Cares Artopia 7 p.m.

Donald L. Tucker Civic Center Bigbendcares.org June 27

Wine Collection Series: Taste of Pinot Noir 6:30 – 8 p.m.

The Edison Eventbrite.com

Independence Day Celebrate America

5:30 p.m.

Tom Brown Park Talgov.com/parks/parks-ca.aspx July 5

Kids Summer Series: Bird Feeders

10 – 11 a.m.

Whole Foods Market Tallahassee Thomasville Eventbrite.com July 9

Kidz Club at Copy Cats 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.

Copy Cats Copycatsstudio.com July 23

TMH For Life Eat Healthy Challenge 7:30 a.m.

Deerlake Middle School Tmh.org July 23

Taste of Tallahassee 12 – 5 p.m.

Cascades Park Eventbrite.com

July 1 – 31

Full Moon Challenge

5K to be completed when and where you choose in the month of July Moonjoggers.com gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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simple

All American Recipes Looking for the perfect dish to whip up for Fourth of July? Check out these red, white and blue-approved recipes for a tasty treat!

slow cooker sausage “Friends and family always request my slow cooker sausages recipe.

I mix one bag of brown sugar, one bottle of yellow mustard and one small can of crushed pineapple, (undrained) in the slow cooker. Add 2 packages of Hillshire Farms Lit’l Smokies sausages and cook on high until heated through, approximately 2 hours.”

- Allison Raber

BAKED BEANS “I use my family’s favorite baked beans, Bush’s Grillin’ Beans, and add some ground hamburger. It’s the talk of the party!”

- Brittani DePeiza

Flag Cake “I make a yellow cake with white icing, strawberries for lines and blueberries for stars! Ta-dah, you have a flag!”

- Amanda Lamb

American flag fruit cookies “I use Pillsbury sugar cookies for the base. Next, I top them with white cream cheese frosting, add blueberries for the stars, and then a mix of strawberries and raspberries to finish it off.”

- Jennifer Riehle

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flag fruit TRAY “I always make an American flag fruit tray. I use strawberries, raspberries or red apples, bananas or cheese, and blueberries. It also works well with candy for kids events.”

- Laurie Wohl

Coleslaw

Funnel cakes

“I combine 1 bag of coleslaw and 1 jar of Marie’s Coleslaw Dressing (found in the cold soda section of your supermarket) in a bowl, and then let it sit in the refrigerator overnight before serving.”

- Joy Irving

“Heat up your frying oil, mix the batter (it’s basically just pancake batter), get a funnel, pour in the batter and swirl it around. Bam! Easy funnel cake.”

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

- Kourtney O’Steen Robinson

“I combine ½ of a family-size bottle of merlot, 2 shots of Raspberry Schnapps and frozen berries in a pitcher, and then keep it chilled until I’m ready to serve. I add ginger ale to the pitcher right before serving and garnish with a fresh strawberry.“ - Nicole Irving

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Sangria

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happy community

gigglemag.com | june/july 2016

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gigglemag.com | june/july 2016