Neapolitan Family December 2020

December 2020

neafamily.com

Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide Easy Chanukah Crafts Holiday Pet Adoption Advice

COMPLIMENTARY

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OPENING SP D N

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

COMMUNITY COUNSELING (Ages 6-17)

Screening & Assessment Screening and assessment conducted by a Masters level clinician and certified and trained team.

Evidenced-based Program Clinicians develop an individualized treatment plan that meets specific needs of the youth and family, utilizing evidenced-based programs and approaches.

Mental Health Evaluations and Referrals Clinicians address mental health concerns and provide referrals to appropriate provider if necessary.

Aftercare and Follow-up Structured approach to aftercare that reinforces lessons and skills developed to prevent relapse and connects youth and families to additional support systems.

All services are free of charge.

For more information call

239-278-5400

www.lsfnet.org NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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December 2020 TABLE OF CONTENTS

in every issue . . .

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FROM THE PUBLISHER

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YOUR COMMUNITY

11

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS UPDATE

27

TEACHER OF THE MONTH

on the cover…

12 20 in 2020. The final installment of our anniversary series takes a look at what we learned during this weirdest of years.

by Anna Snyder 15 Adding a Pet? Advice on what to consider when bringing home a pet during the holidays.

by Liz McCauley 16 Women in the Workplace: 2021. Learn why it’s okay to ask for flexibility in your workplace.

by Tricia O’Connor 18 Holiday Events. Christmas isn’t canceled, and neither is Chanukah. Find out where you can see the lights, take pictures with Santa, and enjoy the season safely.

Our cover kids are (L-R) Jack (6), Jones (3), Jeb (3), and Caroline (9) Coleman. Caroline is in third grade and Jack is in kindergarten at Sea Gate Elementary, while twins Jones and Jeb attend preschool at Precious Cargo Academy. The kids, along with parents Kelly and JP, love being outside, doing anything from catching fish and crabs from their boat to watching chickens hatch at home.

Cover photo by John Paul Buchanan Chasing Dreams Photography 239-249-9400 • 239-249-9402 Español www.chasingdreamsphotography.com

Happy Holidays! from

20 Near and Far. While international travel plans temporarily are on hold, enjoy bucket-list experiences closer to home.

by Karen T. Bartlett 24 Guilty Pleasures Relieve Stress. Give yourself permission to take care of yourself.

by Christa Melnyk Hines 28 Chanukah Family Fun. Celebrate the Festival of Lights with these kid-friendly activities.

by Rabbi Ariel Boxman 30 Shop Local. Find gifts for everyone on your list while supporting the businesses in our community.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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Providing Care for Infants, Toddlers, Preschool, VPK, Kindergarten, & After School Programs K-5th GRADE 

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Weekly Yoga, Music, Piano, Sports, Dance, Zumba, Mindfulness, Library, and Foreign Language & Sign Language Classes Monthly field trips to destinations such as the Conservancy, Children’s Museum, Artis Naples, Barnes & Noble, Botanical Gardens, Naples Zoo and Call today to schedule a tour! 239-261-7442 PHONE

Precious Cargo Academy 5200 Crayton Road Naples, FL 34103 WEBSITE: PreciousCargoAcademy.org

EMAIL: Leanne.badham@outlook.com

A Mission of Naples United Church of Christ 6

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Find Us on Facebook!

@PCANaples

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

from the publisher… the parenting magazine devoted to collier county

P.O. Box 110656 Naples, FL 34108 info@neafamily.com 2020

2020

2020

THIS MONTH The Holidays

2020

Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman lanewman@neafamily.com 239-272-0529 Co-Publisher Stacy Nicolau snicolau@neafamily.com 239-370-5333 Travel Editor Karen T. Bartlett mostlykidsguides@gmail.com 239-595-9026 Feature Writer Anna Snyder Field Photographer Lisette Morales lisettemoralesart@gmail.com Editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all material contributed. We cannot be responsible for return of any unsolicited materials. Articles and advertisements in Neapolitan Family do not necessarily reflect the opinion of the publisher nor does the publisher assume responsibility for statements made by our advertisers or editorial contributors. Acceptance of advertising by Neapolitan Family does not constitute an endorsement of the products, services, or information. We do not knowingly present any product or service that is fraudulent or misleading in nature. Neapolitan Family is available free of charge at more than 200 distribution points throughout Collier County as well as digitally at neafamily.com. Neapolitan Family is ©2020 by Neapolitan Family Publishing LLC. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without written permission is strictly prohibited.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

Shop local. It’s a phrase we hear every year as the holidays loom. In 2020, it takes on a new significance. The local businesses that make Southwest Florida unique are struggling to survive the pandemic, while sales are up for the big online retailers and box stores. As many of us are spending less on gifts this year, make those dollars work hard for our community by spending your money at local establishments so that their doors will be open at this time next year.

To help make that happen, Neapolitan Family has put together an 8-page Shop Local Holiday Gift Guide, starting on page 30. The guide contains items ranging from hot chocolate bombs (I know!) to handmade wine tables to family memberships at local destinations. You’ll discover gift ideas from stores we all know, like Twinkle Twinkle Little Store and Norman Love Confections, and from companies that may be new to you, such as Lazy Turtle and Lucas Loves Lola. Many of the items can be purchased online.

Don’t forget to look for special discounts for our readers in the product descriptions.

Many traditional holiday events have been canceled for 2020. But the good news is that there still are safe holiday events proceeding as planned, and you can find the details on page 18. For our complete calendar, visit https://neafamily.com/calendarofevents. For even more holiday fun, check out the kid-friendly Chanukah activities you can do at home on page 28.

Although most of us anxiously are looking forward to 2021, there is some benefit to reviewing the past year. On page 12, Anna Snyder shares the top 20 things we all learned in 2020. Some of them may surprise you.

Happy Holidays!

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YOUR COMMUNITY NEWS & EVENTS

Adopt a Manatee to Help Fund Lovers Key Welcome Center

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he Welcome and Discovery Center at Lovers Key State Park is nearing completion, and to help raise funds for interior exhibits in the new facility, Friends of Lovers Key is offering the opportunity to adopt a manatee.

All adoptions include plush versions of Lovers Key’s manatee mascots Molly and Minnie, an adoption certificate, manatee Fun Facts, and the story of how Molly and Minnie came to live at Lovers Key State Park. Because manatees are herbivores, they can be found anywhere there is abundant vegetation, which makes the estuary canals of Lovers Key a perfection habitat. Visitors will find manatees throughout the park year-round, and may even see Molly and Minnie.

The manatee adoption can be completed in person at the Ranger Station at Lovers Key State Park for a $20 donation, or will house exhibits featuring the unique variety of ecosystems online at https://friendsofloverskey.org/shop for a $28 donation found on our beautiful barrier islands. The center is scheduled to (including delivery). All funds raised will be directed to building the open in 2021. interior exhibits and purchasing furnishings, teaching equipment, Lovers Key State Park is located at 8700 Estero Blvd., Fort and audio-visual equipment.

Andrew Podos, M.D., believes a sick child Myers Beach.

When the Welcome and Discovery Center is completed, the never have to wait be seen.

For more information, call 239-463-4588. park will have a should state-of-the-art 4,000-square-foot facility to which

That’s why he’s available both in the office and online through Millennium’s telehealth service MPG Connect.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

We buy & sell gently used kids stuff • Clothing (newborn to size 16), toys, baby furniture, equipment, and more.

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• No appointment necessary; clothes must be freshly laundered and brought in a plastic container.

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Also in: Fort Myers at 239-274-0039 Port Charlotte at 941-764-8121

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Life-size Animal Brick Statues at Naples Zoo Through April

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ife-size animal statues created from more than 1.2 million individual bricks currently are on exhibit at the Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens.

BRICKLIVE Animal Paradise is a traveling exhibit that has settled at the Naples Zoo until April 4. Many of the statues are familiar species, such as a 4-foot-tall lion, a 12-foot-tall giraffe, and a 10-foot-long alligator. Additionally, guests will encounter some animals they would not normally see at Naples Zoo, including a 4-foot-tall giant panda, a 7-foot-long elephant, and 8-foot-long rhino.

For more information, visit, www.napleszoo.org.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

COLLIER COUNTY PUBLIC SCHOOLS

By Jennifer Kupiec

Virtual Symposium Teaches Important Learning Skills

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OVID-19 has impacted every aspect of our lives, from education and employment to shopping and travel.

With all of the unexpected changes taking place in households and classrooms nationwide, there has been an increased focus on mental health and social emotional learning (SEL). It’s important for everyone – parents and school staff alike – to be able to support our children during these challenging times.

To help our community, Collier County Public Schools (CCPS) offered a virtual symposium last month titled “SEL: COVID-19 and Beyond.” A panel shared SEL skills for students to add to their toolbox and important self-care tips for adults.

Julie Frizzi, CCPS counselor on special assignment, stressed the importance of listening to the human body. “Sour emotions often hide in our body … tense jaws, tight legs, our heart feels heavy. Being able to notice where those feelings hide in your body is a really important strategy, and then naming those feelings is important to self-awareness.” She also suggested handling different types of emotions through deep breathing, stretching, and positive self-talk.

“Your thinking and your self-talk create the way you feel, and your feelings fuel your actions. And those actions or non-actions create the results you want in life.”

“Everyone has an opinion on what

Gulf Coast High School Principal Joe Mikulski school should look like and what school should feel like because they have their own experiences,” stated Gulf Coast High School Principal Joe Mikulski. “The problem is no one has experienced what our kids are going through now.” He stressed the importance of building relationships. “Having those relationships [with students], you should be able to tell if someone is not acting their normal selves.” He added that school psychologists and counselors are an important resource for our students and staff. “If there is something that doesn’t seem right, act on it,” he said.

The most important advice Mikulski could give as both a parent and a school administrator – get kids involved. “Join the

band, get involved in clubs. Get kids to feel part of the society and part of the culture.”

He then introduced a video on building school community, which was shown to all CCPS students. “The sense of community is important.”

When speaking to the balance of academics and mental health, Mikulski said, “Kids put pressure on themselves for a lot of different reasons, whether it’s academic or social.” He added that it is vital to come up with a balanced schedule, giving time for mental breaks. “Sometimes you have to be able to shut down to open up.”

Hemlal Kafle, social worker/homeless education liaison for CCPS, reviewed resources for those experiencing challenging times, such as food insecurity or homelessness. “It is important to understand your own circumstances, and if you are experiencing difficulties during this COVID-19 and beyond, we may be able to help you.

It is okay to ask for help,” he stressed. He also offered strategies to support our overall well-being, such as finding ways to take care of ourselves every day, and how we can work together by approaching one another with compassion, understanding, and empathy.

“You are not alone,” he said. “This is a difficult time we are facing.”

To view the full symposium, visit www. collierschools.com/SEL.

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20 in 2020

By Anna Snyder

20 in 2020

W

What We Learned This Year

ell, it’s here. The end of the longest year on record: 365 days – 8,760 hours – each one stretching on and on and on. All jokes aside, we learned a lot this year as a community.

1. We must hold our travel plans with open hands. So many trips canceled and so many plans changed this year! I’ve heard countless stories of international travel booked years in advance all vanished within the blink of an eye. The pandemic wrecked our year in terms of planned travel, but it didn’t stop us from adventuring in this beautiful place in which we live.

2. We re-learned the importance of being outside. During the spring quarantine months when school was canceled, I met so many of my neighbors and saw them at regular intervals – on walks, family bike rides, and playing backyard games. Getting out of the house took on a new meaning for each of us this year. “Experiencing nature was essential for our daily well-being,” said Naples mom of two Jill Acker. “We enjoyed being outside together in a new way.”

3. We learned to slow down. All of a sudden, time stopped in March. I stopped working, stopped volunteering, stopped teaching piano lessons. My schedule – the thing I used to justify my harried,

discombobulated behavior – was stripped away. Along with many other parents, I slowed down in an instant, forced to confront my patterns of behavior and evaluate who I actually am as a wife and mom. All of the things I thought made me “me” ended, and my life changed. But guess what I was left with? All of the best stuff: my daughter, my husband, our home, and our love for one another. Slowing down became the highlight, and I’ll always cherish the time COVID-19 forced me into it.

4. Collier County can mandate virtual at-home learning for months at a time.

If someone told you in January that inperson school could be canceled for months in a row, would you have believed them?

We lived through (and some are still living through) online education! Did we thrive?

Ehhhh. But did we survive? As far as I know…

5. Teachers are real-life superheroes.

Speaking of education, our teachers in Collier County proved their dedication, ingenuity, love for their students, and ability to embrace innovation once again. “We learned to make learning fun on a different platform, and we had the unique opportunity to set aside testing goals,” said Christina Svec, a Collier County teacher and mom of two. “And, when the children came back to in-person education, I learned again how important it is for children to feel safe before any learning can happen.”

6. Our concern for children-at-risk increased. Quarantine illuminated unsafe, insecure home situations for many children.

Teachers and social workers kicked it in to high gear making sure our community’s children were safe, had access to food, and could continue learning on the virtual education platform.

7. We love to bake. Sourdough starter, anyone? Coffee cake? Blueberry scones?

Homemade sourdough bread French toast?

The options were endless, as long as you didn’t need yeast.

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8. When they’re home, our children: Snack. All. Day. Pirate’s Booty, pistachios, crackers and cheese, apples, saltines, granola bars, stale sourdough bread – you name it, they ate it. Mysteriously, they made it through a 7-hour school day with nothing but a measly Lunchable. However did they manage? Home education incited ravenous behaviors the world has never seen. “It was no different than their typical summer snacking. I guess I just wasn’t prepared mentally or physically for the amount of food I’d need to have on hand,” said Angie Grows, a Naples mom of three boys.

9. We’re so thankful for the beach!

After weeks of going without the beach, we breathed a collective sigh of relief and flocked

to our beautiful public access points when they reopened, forcing both the city and the county to place boundaries on their usage. I found myself at the beach multiple times a week this summer, so thankful for the chance to be active, be outside, and enjoy nature!

10. We re-learned how to say goodbye. Many people moved away in the face of job loss, selling their homes, and relocating relatively quickly. We were forced to say goodbye to close friends and deal with loss.

11. We’re built for community, and we long for physical, in-person connection.

Quarantine showed us that we crave relationships with others. We can’t go for too long without connection. Our mental and emotional health required us to be

in community. “I learned how important my core group of friends is for me and my family. I realized that with them, I can make it through anything. I kept going because of my community of friends,” said Naples

mom Uliana Fedotob. Many of us in Southwest Florida don’t have family close by, and we rely on each other for support and encouragement in our parenting and everyday lives.

12. We’re really creative. From birthday party parades to homeschool education to making dinner at home for the millionth day in a row, we’ve learned that our creativity knows no bounds.

13. We learned to pivot our businesses continued on page 14

Happy kids. Sparkly smiles.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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continued from page 13 in order to survive. Many local businesses experienced massive shifts in consumer behavior almost overnight. One local mom – a private tutor – shared her experience: “I had to personally test out different video chat platforms, payment methods, and learning tools to keep learning accessible for all my students.” We saw local restaurants get creative with their food delivery systems, offering specials, and encouraging patrons to support them.

14. Our children provide so much wisdom and insight during stressful times.

“I’ve been stopped in my tracks multiple times this year by the insightful things Karoline has said,” my sister-in-law, Emma Handsel, quipped. “I learned to take the time to absorb my 7-year-old’s perspective this year. It comes from a place of innocence and optimism we seem to lose as adults.”

15. We learned not to wish time away. “I mentioned to a friend recently that I couldn’t wait until the pandemic was behind us,” said Neapolitan Family Co-Publisher Leigh Ann Newman. “She pointed out that there still are so many moments to enjoy right now, and that we will never get this

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time back. As the parent of a teenager who will be off to college in a couple years, this hit home and changed my perspective.”

16. We learned the importance of stress relief in a variety of forms. The aforementioned baking of bread, obsessive running, YA literature, eating for comfort, knitting wool hats we’ll never be able to wear in Florida – you name it, we tried it.

We all learned the importance of stepping away from the household homeschool chaos in pursuit of a little relief.

17. It’s really hard to work from home and parent at the same time. Really hard.

18. Our reactions to situations reveal what’s going on inside of us, and our kids pick up on these reactions. Of course we already knew this going into 2020, but during quarantine we had the opportunity to relearn it on a daily basis. I know I have a problem with habitual frustration when my 6 year old precedes her requests with “Please don’t get frustrated.” This year gave me the opportunity to work on correcting this behavior in my life and in my parenting. “Crazy weird pressure with virtual schooling and all of these things we’ve never experienced before brought out yelling and

screaming in my house,” said Blair Gurick, a Naples mom of three. “I learned how badly I want to correct that behavior and work on my responses.”

19. We learned – the hard way – which household members are extroverted. (Me! Me! Me!) Spending time at home day in and day out for so many months frustrated me and exhausted my family. I waved big and spoke awkwardly to the Amazon delivery guy and Mailman Fred. I stopped my neighbors to chat from 6 feet away any chance I got.

“What’s new since the last time we talked?

Nothing? Are you sure?”

20. There’s a time for celebration, and it’s here. We need to take this month to celebrate: our families, our triumph in the face of hardship, and our resilience. This year I’m enjoying the daily excitement of the season, looking closely in awe and wonder at the neighborhood lights displays, taking each moment of celebration and storing it in my heart, and eating Publix Santa’s White Christmas ice cream and peppermint bark on a regular basis. I’m celebrating the blessings of my family and the ways in which this year grew us and brought us closer together.

Who’s with me?

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

PETS

By Liz McCauley

What to Consider When Adopting a Pet During the Holidays We asked Liz McCauley, executive director of the Cape Coral Animal Shelter, for advice on welcoming a cat or dog into your home at this time of the year.

M

y dream for every animal in shelters and rescues is for them to find a loving, forever home for the holidays. Truly consider giving a rescue pet a chance. Shelters and rescues are filled with wonderful animals that will love you unconditionally and be grateful to be part of a family.

Surprises aren’t always a good thing. As tempting as it is to “surprise” someone you love with a new pet, bringing one into your life is a huge commitment and should be discussed at length with every member of the family. Perhaps if kids have been asking for a pet, put together a basket of cat/dog toys with a “gift certificate” to go to the shelter to pick out the new family member together. Most shelters would be happy to give you some sort of information to wrap and put under the tree to be used at a later date.

Research the breed, and listen carefully to everything the shelter staff tells you about the dog or cat you are looking to adopt. We do our best to match each animal with a family that’s a good fit for everyone. If we tell you a puppy or young dog is very high energy and needs lots of exercise, it’s probably not a great fit if you’re at work all day. That said, we have many great dogs and cats to choose from, so perhaps one that’s a bit older and perfectly happy napping all day while you’re away is a much better fit.

New pets need time to acclimate and adjust to their

new e n v i ronment.

Bringing one into your home when there are parties and celebrations going on or relatives visiting may not be a good idea. Maybe a few days after Christmas, when things have settled down but you still have time to spend with your new family member is a better time to visit a shelter.

Finally, remember that adopting any animal requires years of commitment, time, money, and love. Think past the excitement of getting a new family pet and be ready to love and take care of them long after the holidays.

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CAREER

By Tricia O’Connor

Women in the Workplace: 2021

Why It’s (More Than) OK for Moms to Ask Employers for Flexibility

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hat are you asking Santa for? If it’s a job with flexible benefits, hybrid work shifts, extra safety precautions, and a boss who understands the value of working mothers, you’re in good company. COVID-19 is creating a dynamic environment in which many businesses are having to focus on meeting employees’ needs to keep their workers, many of whom are mothers.

As working moms face another year of financial stress and family and health hurdles, you can use this time of uncertainty to re-imagine and redefine not only why you work, but how you work best. Believe it or not, many employers are listening because you’re too valuable to replace.

Why are moms leaving?

Mothers are being disproportionately impacted by the global pandemic and the resulting economic fallout. The latest research shows women are providing nearly 70% of child care among married couples who both have full-time jobs. Some dual-working families are responding by having one parent – mostly you, Mom – leave their job, or not return to the workforce if they have been laid off. There is a growing number of moms who are not returning to work after having a new baby, or for health and safety considerations. Single parents are struggling to balance remote work and caring for kids.

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These issues already existed for working mothers before COVID-19, but the pandemic has created unsustainable pressure and anxiety for all working parents.

According to the Women in the Workplace study by global management firm McKinsey & Co., the biggest challenges working mothers face are anxiety over layoffs or furloughs, burnout, mental health struggles, child care and homeschooling responsibilities, caregiving, and financial insecurity.

Why the economy needs working moms Hemorrhaging working parents is bad for business and the economy in general. In 2019, of the nation’s 33.4 million families with children, at least one parent was employed in 91.3% of those families.

The impact on women’s vertical mobility in the workplace is especially evident. Women make up less than 7% of chief executive officers at Fortune 500 companies; women of color make up an even smaller percentage. If you do leave your job, you often have a harder time getting back in, and you reduce your long-term earning potential. This vicious cycle perpetuates pre-existing wage inequality and occupational segregation. If it continues or gets worse because of COVID-19, this cycle will haunt generation after generation of working women.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

What moms should ask for (and receive!)

But the economy needs parents – especially mothers – to work.

This means working moms have leverage. You can view this time of uncertainty as an opportunity to ask employers for more flexible, empathetic, and safe working environments. Here are some suggestions: • Flexible work options. If the current pandemic has taught us anything about balancing life and work duties, it’s that flexible working hours and conditions are must-haves for moms. Ask your employer about remaining remote if you need to stay home, or pitch them a hybrid work week or alternative shift times. Remind your boss that allowing fathers to work from home helps retain working moms, too. One leading researcher found men who work remotely do about 50% more child care than men who must report to the office.

• Focus on output. Chances are you’re a masterful multitasker.

Most moms are. You’re probably also wickedly efficient and a clever strategist. In short, you get things done. If you’re salaried, this is a terrific time to speak with your supervisor about focusing on output and completion of objectives instead of relying solely on time-based standards. If you finish in six hours what normally takes others the full eight-hour day, negotiate a window of time each day where you can tackle some other mom-related responsibilities. Car line and homework, anyone?

• Request support programs. This one’s for all you new moms or moms-to-be out there. If you’re nervous about returning to work, ask your human resources team or representative if there is a guidebook for new parents that includes an outline of training opportunities, mentorship programs, flexible work solutions, child care options,

and re-entry tools. In many cases, business do a great job of helping women prepare for maternity leave, but they don’t do as well bringing those new parents back in. If your employer doesn’t have a resource like that, perhaps pitch it yourself. You may have just created a new role for yourself within the company.

• Safe working environment. Mothers are still the primary caregivers in most families. Latina mothers are 1.6 times more likely than white mothers to be responsible for all childcare and housework, and Black mothers are twice as likely to be handling all of this for their families. Twelve percent of parents are part of the sandwich generation caring simultaneously for children and parents, according the Pew Research Center. It’s reasonable, then, to be concerned about how safe your workplace is, and to ask your employer what precautions they’re taking to keep you safe. If they’re not taking enough proactive steps – like enacting physical distancing guidelines or mask requirements – it’s important you advocate for yourself and your family and communicate your needs to a supervisor or HR team member.

The bottom line is this: You want to work for parent-friendly companies, and businesses need you to stay in the workforce. It costs employers thousands of dollars more to hire a new employee than to partner with an existing worker. So speak up, moms (and dads)! This COVID-19 economy is new to all of us and represents a unique opportunity to partner with our employers to innovate a new parent-compatible working environment that maintains women’s progress in the labor force and creates more opportunities for women to succeed in the long term.

Here’s hoping Santa gets the message!

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Where to Find Family Holiday Fun While some of our favorite local holiday traditions have been canceled because of COVID-19, there are many family-friendly events to be found during December 2020 in Southwest Florida. Please check before attending any of these events, to ensure they are proceeding as planned.

LIGHTING DISPLAYS Night Lights in the Garden. Through Jan. 3, 6-9 p.m. and 6-10 p.m. selected nights. Naples Botanical Garden. Stroll pathways illuminated with millions of lights while listening to live music. A safe and fun Night Lights experience. Visit www. naplesgarden.org.

Christmas Walk and Tree Lighting Ceremony.

Dec. 4-5, 5-10 p.m. Downtown Naples. Longtable dining on Fifth Avenue, live nativity, skating rink, live music, Santa Claus, and more. Visit www. fifthavenuesouth.com.

Victoria Park. Located in North Naples off Airport Road (about 1 mile south of Immokalee). The most over-the-top holiday lights displays in town. Many of the streets have matching decorations (arches, trees, candy canes) lighting the way. Be prepared for a VERY slow drive.

Holiday Festival of Lights. Dec. 5, 4-10 p.m.

Cape Coral. Visit with Santa, slide down a snow drift, watch the tree lighting, enjoy live entertainment, and shop in the Holiday Village. Visit www. holidayfestivalcc.com.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates Holiday Nights.

Through Dec. 24, and Dec. 26-Jan. 3, 5:30-9 p.m.

Edison & Ford Winter Estates, Fort Myers. All new decorations, coordinated music and lights show, animated 25-foot tree, and the Children’s Tree Trail. Visit www.edisonfordwinterestates.org.

CHANUKAH Virtual Community-wide Chanukah Celebration.

Dec. 10, 5 p.m. Join us virtually for this special evening. We will sing Chanukah songs and all light our menorahs together. Register at https:// jewishnaples.org.

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HOLIDAY FUN Christmas Tree Sales. Through Dec. 21 (or until sold out). M-F 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.; Saturday 9 a.m. to 8 p.m.; Sunday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Collier Fairgrounds, Naples. Trees range from 3 to 12 feet tall.

Visit https://collierfair.com/christmas-tree-sales.

Naples Holiday Parade. Dec. 9, 6:30-9 p.m.

Collier Fairgrounds, Naples. Sponsored by Collier County Sheriff’s Office. Enjoy floats and displays from your car for a safe, socially distanced holiday experience. Free.

The Nutcracker. Dec. 5, 3 p.m. & 7 p.m. ArtisNaples. Presented by Naples Ballet in Hayes Hall with socially distanced seating. Young dancers from the Naples Ballet bring this timeless tale to life in an enchanting 75-minute performance danced to a recorded score. Visit https://artisnaples.org.

Teas and Trees Festival. Dec. 4-19. Sugden Theatre, Naples. Sponsored by The Naples Players.

Stroll through a wonderland of artist-designed themed holiday trees while enjoying decadent teas. Indoor snow and live carolers and performers.

Visit https://naplesplayers.org.

Night in Bethlehem. Dec. 11-12, 6-8 p.m. North Naples Church. A free two-night drive-through event. Experience the story of Christmas with a live nativity and music. Complimentary bags of food available to those in need. Visit https:// nnchurch.org.

Christmas Concert. Dec. 20, 4 p.m., Trinity-bythe-Cove Episcopal Church, Naples. Christmas music for organ, harp, violin, and cello.

At press time, it was still to be determined whether this free concert will be in-person or livestreamed. For updated information, visit trinitybythecove.com.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

Candlelight Christmas Carols. Dec. 18, 5:30-9 p.m.

Cambier Park, Naples. Caroling starts at 6:30. Food truck onsite. Visit https://carolsatcambier.com.

Cookies & Milk with Santa. Dec. 12, 9-11 a.m.

Donna Fiala Eagle Lakes Park Community Center, Naples. Enjoy a treat with Santa. Ages 6 months to 12 years. $2 per child. Pre-registration required at www.collierparks.com.

Pajamas & Pancakes. Dec. 19, 2-4 p.m. Immokalee South Park. Join us for breakfast and pictures with Santa. Crafts, food, and music. All ages. $2 per person. Register at www.collierparks.com.

Photos With Santa

ON THE WATER

Pictures with Santa

Christmas Boat Parade on Naples Bay. Dec. 12, 6:15-8:30 p.m. The parade may be viewed from Naples City Dock, Pinchers Tin City, Riverwalk Restaurant, Naples Landing, Kelly’s Fish House, The Boat House, and Bayview Park. Check www. miacc.org.

Bonita Springs Boat Parade. Dec. 12, 5:30 p.m.

The parade starts at The Bay Water Boat Club on the Imperial River. Check www.bonitaboatparade.com.

Fort Myers Beach Christmas Boat Parade. Dec. 5, 6-8 p.m. Watch more than 30 decorated boats pass though Matanzas Harbor and the first two canals of Siesta Isles. Visit www.fmbboatparade.com.

Marco Island Christmas Island Style Boat Parade. Dec. 12, 6-9 p.m. Watch decorated boats sailing up and down the Marco River. Visit www. christmasislandstyle.com.

Coastland Center Mall. Through Dec. 24.

Both in-person and virtual visits with Santa available. Reservations are strongly encouraged. Walk-up visits available as space allows.

Call 239-262-2323 or visit www.coastlandcenter. com.

Petco. Dec. 14-15, 1-4 p.m.

Bring your pet for a digital photo with Santa, and help local animal welfare organizations. $9.95. Check with local stores for participation.

Visit www.petcofoundation.org.

Santa’s Wonderland 2020. Through Dec. 24.

Bass Pro Shops, Gulf Coast Town Center, Estero.

Safe, free photos with Santa. Mail letters to Santa and bring home free holiday craft activity kits while supplies last. For hours, call 239-4617800 or visit www.basspro.com.

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19

TRAVEL

By Karen T. Bartlett

Have Some Now, Save Some for Later

I

f you’re a travel writer or a hostage of severe wanderlust (guilty on both counts), just about the worst thing to hear (besides “Madam, you are not getting on this plane with that Zulu spear), is “You may as well put away that passport; the borders are closed.”

And I’ve heard both. But if we’re really clever about it, we don’t have to travel to Provence to hear the exotic humming of bees on a vast sea of lavender. We can experience the exhilaration of putting on a medieval leather glove to fly our own personal raptor in the shadow

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of a historic castle without crossing the Atlantic. And if Japan must remain off the table for now, no worries. Who could fail to be awed by the blossoms of 350,000 Yoshino cherry trees filling the air like surreal pink clouds against robin’s egg blue skies, just an 8-hour drive from here?

I remember an old fashioned candy from my childhood: fruity little blocks of hard taffy called Now & Later. Presumably the idea was that kids could enjoy one now and save one for later. Or, adults NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

can enjoy one now and have dental work later. In any case, here are some dream trips for later, and their very similar alternatives you can enjoy right now – no foreign travel needed.

Japanese cherries in Georgia In Macon, Georgia, Yoshino cherry blossoms burst forth in March and bloom through the end of April. The city’s famous 10-day International Cherry Blossom Festival is scheduled for March 19-28, 2021. To fit in like a local in the “pinkest city in the world,” gentlemen might want to pack their pink linen blazer or pink oxford shirt. For women and kids, anything pink is appropriate.

Killer whales and lavender fields As I learned last summer, you don’t have to go to Antarctica or Canada to get (relatively) up close and personal with 4-ton, 25-footlong killer whales (orcas) in the wild. Just fly to Seattle and take the ferry to aptly named Orcas Island.

Captain Matt Stolmeier, an island native with a degree in sustainable eco-tourism, has been guiding for Outer Islands Excursions and photographing killer whales for the past 14 years.

He last saw one of his favorites, scientifically named T137A and affectionately called Jack, on the final trip of the 2020 season.

Besides orcas, Outer Islands Excursions logs regular sightings of humpback, minke, and gray whales, elephant seals, Steller’s sea lions, sea otters, and more in the waters surrounding Orcas Island.

Sightings are so common that they are guaranteed, or you go again for free. The high season is April to October, and I recommend July or August because that’s also “purple season” on nearby San Juan Island.

After your rugged day on the whaleboat, grab a short ferry ride to the charming seaport town of Friday Harbor for shopping and alfresco dining on fresh seafood, and a visit to The Whale Museum. Then head over to the 350-acre Pelindaba Lavender Farm.

In summer, guests actually may walk through the fragrant fields of ready-to-harvest lavender. At the annual San Juan Island Lavender Festival (the third weekend in July) be sure to sample the lavender ice cream and bring home all kinds of lavender products. Visit www. pelindabalavender.com.

Back on Orcas Island, rest up for the rugged climb through primeval forest to the peak of Mt. Constitution. From the observation tower you have vast views of the San Juan islands, all the way continued on page 22

Facing page: Cherry blossoms in Miyagi Prefecture, Japan.

Photo courtesy of Japan National Tourism Organization.

Above: “Jack.” Photo by Matt Stolmeier.

Following page: Wexford the Harris Hawk at the Irish School of Falconry at Ashford Castle, Ireland. Photo by Karen T. Bartlett.

Covenant Church of Naples Mom’s Morning Out Providing a loving environment for children while offering parents and caregivers a needed break

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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continued from page 21 to Victoria, British Columbia. In the village of Eastsound check out the Orcas Island History Museum, which offers periodic kid-friendly ghostly storytellers in the summer. Want to skip the hotel route?

For the ultimate vacation bubble for a family reunion, check out Islandview Haus, a hilltop retreat designed for stunning 180-degree views, featuring a vast deck with a Jacuzzi and fire pit, chef’s kitchen, and luxurious amenities, including a teepee in the trees for exciting sleepovers. Visit https://outerislandx.com.

Falcons and castles Those who yearn to explore a deep medieval forest with a raptor on your shoulder might plan a trip to Ireland’s School of Falconry, tucked into the woodlands at the 13th century Ashford Castle. But while we practice caution and wait out travel restrictions, we still can practice the ancient art of falconry at one of America’s own venerable “castles.” On the grounds of the 250-room French Renaissance chateau called the Biltmore Estate in the hills of Asheville, North Carolina, you can learn how to handle a majestic hawk or falcon, and then experience the inimitable thrill of having your raptor soar in to land on your leather clad arm. Kids as young as 8 may participate.

The Biltmore Estate itself, built by George Washington Vanderbilt and magnificently landscaped by Fredrick Law Olmsted, is open for public tours. It’s so family-friendly that it has a recorded self-guided walking tour narrated by the Vanderbilt family dog, a St. Bernard named Cedric.

Visit www.biltmore.com/things-to-do.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

Virtual Christmas at Naples UCC

Virtual Christmas Tree Blessing

Sunday, December 20, 4:30-5:30 p.m.

Take a breath during the hustle and bustle of Christmas preparations to celebrate the presence of God as you set up the Christmas tree in your home. Come together with other families to bless your tree through sharing, prayers and singing.

Christmas Service for Families A 40-minute service featuring the Christmas Story, puppets, and the debut of our Virtual Children’s Choir! Stream your Christmas worship service on demand, whenever it is convenient or comfortable for your family.

Available beginning 12/23 at www.naplesucc.org

5200 Crayton Road Naples, FL 34103 (239) 261-5469 info@naplesucc.org | www.naplesucc.org

Visit us online naplesucc.org to Register & Stream Service NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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HOLIDAYS

By Christa Melnyk Hines

12 Guilty Pleasures That Combat Holiday Stress

I

f you’re like many busy moms, you may think that taking time to treat yourself is a crazy indulgence during the hectic holiday season. But when you nurture your spirit, you decrease stress and boost your happiness, creating a positive domino effect throughout your family.

“Guilty pleasures are very important if they are done in moderation,” said Laura Murphy, a marriage, parent, and financial coach.

“Self-care is crucial to being the best you can be. Putting yourself last is not healthy.”

1. Schedule mini-moments. Schedule time for yourself each week on the calendar. Take a walk or join a yoga or dance class.

“Look for ways each day that you can have ‘mini-moments’ that give you energy,” Murphy said, “such as a 10-minute power nap,

reading a magazine for 15 minutes, (or) calling up a friend just to share a good joke – laughter is a great indulgence!”

2. Play. Dee Kauffman plays puzzle games on a portable gaming system to relax. “I feel ... mentally fine-tuned. It’s a way to use my brain in a non-stressful way and helps me unwind after those long days,” she said. “I may be the only house on the block where the kids do not have a handheld game system, but Mom does!”

In fact, studies show that video games, board games, and mind puzzlers, like crosswords and Sudoku, are excellent ways to reduce stress and improve brain function and memory. Researchers at the University of Rochester report that video games also improve players’ abilities in everyday life like driving, multitasking, and quicker decision making.

Why Girl Scouts?

You want a brighter, happier tomorrow for your girl—and that’s exactly what we want, too.

Girl Scouts is a way of life that brings out the best in your girl, and helps her bring out the best in everyone around her. While she’s learning about S.T.E.A.M., the outdoors, entrepreneurship, and important life skills, she’s also discovering new ways to make your family and community stronger, kinder, and better for everyone. Become a Girl Scout at www.gsgcf.org.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

3. Healing touch. Self-care, whether you spend a full day at the spa or sneak in a quick hand or foot massage, can brighten your mood, boost your self-esteem, and help you feel beautiful and relaxed. According to a study from Cedars-Sinai Medical Center, Swedish massage in particular reduces the stress hormone cortisol in the body and boosts immunity by increasing white blood cells, which fight infection and disease.

4. Watch TV. Television can take you out of your own reality, allowing you to indulge in other people’s dramas. Kasey Weidman sets aside every Thursday night to watch her favorite reality show alone in the “grown-up room” (her formal living room) with a frozen mojito in hand.

5. Read. About once or twice a month, following a hectic evening of extracurricular activities and homework, Caroline Winkler spends the next morning reading in bed after her kids leave for school. “Reading takes you out of yourself and your daily concerns and brings you back refreshed and ready for more,” she said.

6. Be creative. Try your hand at scrapbooking, sewing, knitting, or cooking. Even if you feel creatively challenged, the act of focusing your attention completely on a project is meditative and calming. Need ideas? Check out continuing education classes, craft or pottery places, or Pinterest.

7. Indulge your sense of smell. Aromatherapy, which is the use of natural essential plant oil like lavender, clary sage, and geranium, plays a subtle role in influencing mood and physical well-being.

Even some hospitals integrate aromatherapy to create a more healing environment. Something as simple as the smell of cookies baking, for example, provides sick patients, anxious families, and busy staff with a homey scent and a warm, delicious treat.

8. Catch up over coffee. Join a friend for a cup of coffee and conversation. Socializing is good for your emotional health, boosting your levels of oxytocin, a natural hormone that decreases stress anxiety. And enjoyed in moderation, coffee is an antioxidant-rich drink. Research reveals that coffee drinkers are less likely to suffer from Parkinson’s Disease, Type 2 diabetes, and liver cancer.

9. Hit the mall. Bargain hunt or indulge in a day dream. “Go into a very nice dress shop and just start trying on clothes,” Murphy said. “Think of the places you would dream of wearing it – Paris?

San Francisco? London?”

10. Eat out. Plan a special dinner out with friends or your

family. Each month Jennifer Gouteriez takes her family to an expensive, non-chain restaurant. “Fine dinner with a bottle of wine – $30 to $50 a plate.” She said after working hard all month, the special dinner is a way to treat herself and her family while also trying something new.

11. Take a hike. Exercise is good for your body and lifts your mood. If you can, take your fitness routine outdoors and you’ll reap even greater benefits. A Japanese study found that time spent among plants and trees improves the body’s immune function while also reducing blood pressure and lowering the stress hormone cortisol.

12. Head for the hills. If you can swing it, escape for a day.

Rebecca Rowley, who lives in Colorado, plans an annual, late-season ski day with a friend. The day restores her sense of adventure. “I like having time for myself, and I think that it is good to know that my family will be fine for a day without me and that they appreciate it when I’m around,” she said.

Whatever you do, sprinkle your life with small treats to add a sense of delight to those otherwise routine days. After all, as Murphy said: “Taking care of yourself so that you are revived, energized, and ready to lead your busy family is one of the best gifts you can give your family.”

For CHRISTA MELNYK HINES, a mom of two active boys, a little chocolate every day is an essential guilty pleasure.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

Naples Pediatric Dentistry

Teacher of the Month

Heather Caamano

Every month during the school year, Neapolitan Family recognizes the hard-working teachers of Collier and Lee counties. Visit https://neafamily.com to nominate and vote for your favorite teachers. Our November winner received a gift certificate to Love Yoga, a gift box from Norman Love Confections, a sunset cruise from Pure Florida, tickets to It’s a Wonderful Life radio play by The Naples Players in Cambier Park, and teaching supplies from Marco Office Supply. Heather Caamano is a prekindergarten teacher at Saint Ann Catholic School in Naples. Learn more about her below.

Heather Caamano

When did you know you wanted to become a teacher? In high school I had some amazing teachers who inspired me. I decided in my sophomore year that I would be a prekindergarten teacher after graduation. I taught preK3 for 25 years here in the Naples area, then began teaching preK4 eight years ago.

What is your favorite part about teaching prekindergarten? My favorite part of teaching prekindergarten is the wonder and excitement my students show when something new is presented to them and they get to try it out.

What has been the biggest challenge of teaching this grade during COVID-19? The biggest challenge teaching during COVID-19 has been getting myself and the NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

students used to keeping the mask on all day. My students are resilient and now they don’t need reminders anymore about keeping the mask on.

What do you think is your most creative way to teach during the pandemic? Being creative during COVID-19 has had its challenges, but I like to think outside the box and make up as many silly movement songs as possible! My students need to move, and music helps keep them energized and charged up to complete any task.

Where were you born and raised? I was born in Troy, Ohio, and moved to Naples in 1978.

Who do you live with now? I live with my two sons.

Justin is attending Florida Gulf Coast University and Nicholas is a senior at St. John Neumann High School.

Best advice to your students? Have fun, laugh at all the silly things, and be kind to everyone you come in contact with. neafamily.com

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HOLIDAYS

C

By Rabbi Ariel Boxman

Chanukah Family Fun

hanukah is the Jewish Festival of Lights. On this holiday we celebrate the rededication of the Temple in Jerusalem and the miracle of the oil that lasted for eight days (instead of one). It is a joyous holiday in which we light the candles of the menorah, exchange gifts, and enjoy delicious jelly donuts and fried potato pancakes (latkes). Enjoy these fun, family-friendly activities as an exciting way to celebrate Chanukah!

Make a mint tin menorah Make a travel size menorah that is both usable and completely adorable! Simply take an empty Altoid tin, glue nine ¼-inch hex nuts to the center, and add birthday candles when you are ready to light. In order to add some fun, decorate the outside of the Altoid tin with colored tissue paper and modge podge.

For a list of materials and more detailed instructions, visit https://biblebeltbalabusta.com/2013/11/12/ altoids-tin-menorah.

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Make an edible dreidel A dreidel is a four-sided top that we use for a fun game of chance.

While it is super fun to play the game, it is even more fun to eat it! In order to make your own edible dreidel, gather the following items: a marshmallow, a chocolate kiss, a small pretzel stick, and some vanilla frosting. To assemble, insert the pretzel stick in to the marshmallow. Next, unwrap your chocolate kiss and spread some vanilla icing on to the flat side. Finally, adhere the chocolate kiss to the opposite side of the marshmallow.

Try spinning your dreidel and then enjoy your tasty treat!

Make your own jelly doughnut holes Fry your own jelly doughnut.

These doughnuts are delicious and fun to prepare.

Easy Jelly Doughnut Holes Recipe adapted from PJ Hamel at www.kingarthurbaking.com

Doughnuts 2 cups (241g) King Arthur unbleached all-purpose flour 2 tablespoons sugar 1½ tablespoons baking powder ½ teaspoon salt 1 cup lukewarm milk 4 tablespoons butter, melted 1 large egg 1 teaspoon vanilla extract, optional Filling your favorite jelly or jam Fill a skillet that is at least 2½” deep (a 10” electric frying pan is a great choice) with about 1” of vegetable oil (peanut oil preferred for best flavor).

Heat the oil to 350°F while you make the doughnut batter.

Whisk together the flour, sugar, baking powder, and salt.

Whisk together the lukewarm milk, melted butter, egg, and vanilla.

Stir the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients to make a thick batter (or soft dough).

When the oil has come up to temperature, use a tablespoon cookie scoop or spoon to drop balls of batter into the hot oil.

Fry the doughnut holes for 2 minutes on the first side, or until they are a deep golden brown. Some of them may turn themselves over; that’s OK; just use a pair of tongs to turn them back. After 2 minutes, turn the holes over, and fry for an additional 2 minutes, until golden brown. Transfer the doughnut holes to a baking sheet lined with paper towels to drain and cool.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

When the doughnuts are cool, use a piping bag with a long, plain tip to fill them with as much jelly as you like. If you don’t have a piping bag, try using an inexpensive plastic condiment squeeze bottle (think mustard or ketchup), with its tip cut off midway down to make it wider.

Shake the filled doughnuts gently in a bag of granulated sugar. Enjoy warm, or store at room temperature loosely covered for a day or so.

Do an act of loving kindness While it is especially fun to receive gifts on Chanukah, it is also a wonderful time to teach children about the importance of giving back to others. Instead of giving gifts to your children on all eight nights, dedicate one night as a special time to give to others. On this night, do a community service project as a family.

Fun family community service projects include assembling peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for a local shelter, cleaning out closets and donating used clothing and toys to Goodwill, and making homemade dog toys for a local animal shelter.

We hope you and your family enjoy these Chanukah activities! Wishing you a sweet and happy holiday.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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magick of cret tool he Poppy eginner’s unes and

Poppy the Awesome Opossum

POPPY THE AWESOME OPOSSUM AND THE BOOK OF RUNES

up and y, Mama r on her n to find m I? What ng? What

This year our local businesses need our support more than ever. With our Holiday Gift Guide, you will find presents for everyone on your list, from babies to grandparents to even those impossibleto-buy-for teens, without leaving SWFL.

$9.99/$4.99 eBook www.julielebriton.com Also available through Amazon and Barnes & Noble.

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Naples author Julie LeBriton introduces us to Poppy on her first adventure. Follow Poppy as she goes on a mission to find the answers to life’s biggest questions. First book in a series.

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Countdown Till Christmas Poster from Amy Grau Design $7.99 + free domestic shipping

Colorable 36”x24” Countdown Till Christmas poster. Order at amygraudesign.com/countdown or bit.ly/countchristmas.

Doll Stroller at Lucas Loves Lola $120 www.lucasloveslola.com

For ages 2 yrs+. This doll stroller invites children to participate in make-believe play.

Sustainably made by PlanToys. Use code NEAVIP5 at checkout for a 5% discount.

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Quarantine Snack from Taste of Immokalee $40 https://www.tasteofimmokalee.com

Two salsas, chips, and orange zest chocolate chip cookies. Taste of Immokalee is a social enterprise created and operated by high school students in Immokalee.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

Disco Ball Tumbler from Sprinkle Bash

$12 19976 S. Tamiami Trail Unit 201, Estero www.sprinklebash.com

Usborne Books & Learning Materials at Twinkle Twinkle Little Store

Get groovy with these glitzy 16-ounce tumblers with removable straw.

Use promo code neafamily for a 10% discount.

$7.99 + 4172 Tamiami Trail N., Naples https://twinkletwinklelittlestoreofnaples.com We have a huge assortment of learning materials and games. These make perfect and practical gifts.

Mention Neapolitan Family at checkout and receive $5 off a $25 purchase.

Hot Cocoa Bombs by Jennie’s Custom Cakes $5 each 239-248-1975 Jennc98@aol.com • @jenniescustomcakes

Sand Castle Sun Safe Shirt from Lazy Turtle $29.40 + free shipping https://shoplazyturtle.com

Hot cocoa bombs are the hottest holiday treat for 2020! Flavors include chocolate, chocolate peppermint, white chocolate peppermint, white chocolate, white chocolate/chocolate, and salted caramel.

Sand Castle Sun Safe Long Sleeve shirt’s natural UPF rating of 50+ blocks 98% of the sun’s harmful UVA and UVB rays.

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JADA by Dana Tyler $49-$69 8 locations in SWFL https://danatyler.com

Strap-It Bras & Straps by Simply Natural

JADA by DanaTyler logo heart necklace is priced at $69, while the matching logo heart earrings are $49. The solitaire necklace is $69.

$32 29 varieties of straps. The only bra you will ever need. Great for layering all year round. Comes with removable pads. Bras and interchangeable straps sold separately. Available at Mercato and The Village Shops on Venetian Bay.

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VOYA’s Mindful Dreams Relaxing Body Oil

$47 The Spa at Shangri-La Springs 27750 Old 41 Rd. Bonita Springs www.Shangrilasprings.com VOYA’s Mindful Dreams Relaxing Body Oil is enhanced with evening primrose and argan oils and antioxidant qualities. Online ordering and curbside pickup available.

Pink Flamingo Soap Cupcake

$12.99 each Petunias of Naples 824 Fifth Ave. S., Naples www.petuniasofnaples.com From SV Soaps, these adorable soap cupcakes come in a clear cellophane bag with bow and tag.

Shoulder Zoned Dough Memory Foam Pillow with Lavender $80 6224 Trail Blvd., Naples https://mattressdirectnaples.com

Lavender scent comes infused in the pillow, and the included 2 ml spritzer allows you to refresh the aroma when needed. Mention Neapolitan Family for a $15 discount.

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NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

Star Wars Pillow Pets at Sunshine Ace Hardware $31.99 each Naples and Bonita Springs www.SunshineAce.com

Norman Love Confections Holiday Collection

These adorably soft, cozy plushes are perfect for kid cuddling. Chewbacca and Baby Yoda/The Child are among the top-selling Disney characters in Pillow Pets’ latest line of functional stuffed toys that unfasten into 16-inch pillows.

$52.50 3747 Tamiami Trail N., Naples 11380 Lindbergh Blvd., Fort Myers www.normanloveconfections.com

Give the gift of chocolate! A 25-count assortment of holiday flavors, along with a selection of Norman Love’s signature flavors.

Mini Soap Drinks from Get Real Bath & Body + Soap & Salve

$10 https://www.facebook.com/ getrealbodycare Each soap is packaged in a 4” dome-lidded cup with hanging loop and contains approximately 3.5 ounces of coffee or cocoa scented soap topped with buttercream scented whipped soap. Mention this listing for a discount when you order two or more mini soap drinks.

Wine Table from Genie Hill Design $100 239-682-8563 www.etsy.com/shop/GenieHillDesign

Custom wine tables and stovetop covers/noodleboards ($85) and wine tables. Mention Neapolitan Family for $5 off.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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Confections by G 239-776-9850 @confections.by.g

Local 12-year-old baker Giulianna Podolak crafts amazing cakes and dessert bar items to order. From macarons, c upcakes and “cake-tini” in a jar to decadent cakes.

Mention this listing for 10% off until Dec. 31, 2020.

Buildzi available at Classroom A+ $24.99 650 Goodlette Rd. N., Naples http://www.classroom-plus.com

Buildzi the speed building game.

Mention this listing for 15% off.

Dog Rope Leashes from Brothers Unleashed True Fashionistas Consignment

2355 Vanderbilt Beach Rd., #178, Naples https://truefashionistas.com The Louis Vuitton handbag pictured above is just one example of the items available in our one-of-a-kind inventory that is subject to change daily.

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Starting at $15 https://brothersunleashed.com

Leashes come in 5 different colors and 4, 6, & 8ft lengths. Custom lengths available. Use code HOLIDAYS for free USPS ground shipping.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

A Mostly Kids’ Guide to Naples, Marco Island and the Everglades Mint & Lime Refresher Gift Set from Naples Soap Co.

By Karen T. Bartlett, travel editor of Neapolitan Family See inside at www.MostlyKidsGuides.com

Chill out after a busy holiday season with this hand-picked 7-piece refresher gift set. Mention this listing to receive 10% off any full-priced item.

Discover super-fun attractions and experiences, freaky factoids, and inside tips.

It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids!

At available at Barnes & Noble, Sunshine Booksellers, Giggle Moon Children’s Store and other fine gift stores, and on Amazon.

$65 1200 5th Ave. S., #102, Naples and 614 5th Ave. S., Naples www.naplessoap.com

Candy Ribbon Cuffs by A Jaron Fine Jewelry $25-$35 3784 Bayshore Dr., Naples https://ajaron.com

These designs feature the palette of colors that can be seen in this season’s textiles and custom furnishings. Amanda Jaron’s original design is a luxurious and new modern contemporary piece that fits perfectly into your resort wear.

Illume Candle Balsam & Cedar Luxe Sanded Mercury Glass at Lux Boutique $58 4262 Gulf Shore Blvd. N., Naples https://www.shopluxboutique.com

Mercury glass candle features a unique sandblasted finish and comes packaged in an illustrated keepsake box. Balsam and oak moss mingle with aromatic cedar wood, cinnamon, and eucalyptus. 120-hour burn time.

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Give the gift of experience, while supporting our community. We’ve put together a list of great annual memberships to the top family destinations in Southwest Florida. For locations temporarily closed because of COVID-19, memberships will start when the facility reopens.

Naples Zoo at Caribbean Gardens bl

1590 Goodlette-Frank Rd., Naples 239-262-5409 • www.napleszoo.org

Collier County Resident Family Membership: $99 Includes: free admission during regular hours for two adults and any children from the same household; 20% discount on most items in the zoo gift shop; 10% discount at Wynn’s Cafe; Camp Wild discounts; discount on admission for guests of member.

Sun-N-Fun Lagoon

15000 Livingston Rd., Naples 239-252-4021 • www.napleswaterpark.com Collier County Resident Family Membership: $195 Includes: free admission for two parents and all children in the same household.

A lifelong joy of learning, An education for life.

INFANT TODDLER CHILDREN’S HOUSE VPK ELEMENTARY

Call to schedule a private tour

239-597-2255

More information can be found on our website

www.naplesmontessori.org 2655 Northbrooke Drive Naples, Florida 34119 License #C20CO0132

Daily hours from 7:30 A.M. to 5:30 P.M.

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The Conservancy of Southwest Florida

1495 Smith Preserve Way, Naples 239-262-0304 www.conservancy.org Basic Family Membership: $65 Includes: free admission for two adults and four children (under 18); discounts at 147 nature centers across the country; 10% discount in Nature Store; reduced rate kayak rentals; advance notice of programs and discounts.

We Rock the Spectrum Kid’s Gym

17640 Tamiami Trail S., Suite 309, Fort Myers 239-362-3378 • www.werockthespectrumfortmyers.com We Rock the Spectrum is a sensory-based gym for kids of all abilities, where they can play together and learn from each other.

Rock Platinum Open Play Monthly Membership: $125 (1 child); $150 (2 children); $175 (3 children). Discount of 15% for a 6-month membership, 20% for a 1-year membership. See website for additional membership rates.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

Golisano Children’s Museum of Naples

15080 Livingston Rd., Naples 239-514-0084 https://cmon.org Play Membership: $135 Includes: free admission for two parents and up to six dependent children under the age of 18 within the same household; 50% off general admission for up to six people at ACM Reciprocal Network museums.

Corkscrew Swamp Sanctuary 375 Sanctuary Rd., Naples 239-348-915 https://corkscrew.audubon.org

Kite Membership: $100 Includes: free admission for two adults and all children under 18; 10% discount at gift shop.

Naples Botanical Garden 4820 Bayshore Drive, Naples 239-643-7275 www.naplesgarden.org

Family Membership: $110 Includes: free admission for two adults and member’s children/grandchildren under age of 18.

Miguel Argumosa, DMD., Erin M. Taylor, DMD, Nicole Eastham, DMD Board Certified Pediatric Dentists

Three Locations to Serve You. BONITA SPRINGS

CAPE CORAL

239.333.2990

239.322.5222

9510 Bonita Beach Rd. Ste. 101 1508 S.E. 12th Terrace

PORT CHARLOTTE

3872 Tamiami Trail, Unit D&E

941.391.8090

Rookery Bay Reserve 300 Tower Rd., Naples 239-610-5118 https://rookerybay.org

Family Membership: $95 Includes: free admission to Environment Learning Center for two adults and member’s children/grandchildren; admission discounts to 180 nature centers; 10% off programs and gift shop.

Everglades Wonder Gardens 27180 Old 41 Rd., Bonita Springs 239-992-2591 https://evergladeswondergardens.com

Family Membership: $100 Includes: free admission for parents/grandparents and up to six children; 10% discount in gift shop.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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Tracey Ansteth Albert

TUTORING Former CCPS Teacher for 10 Years Golden Apple Award Recipient

239-572-8643 TA1019@aol.com

Reading, Language Arts, Social Studies, Math, Organizational Skills, and Homework Assistance.

• Grades K-3 • Flexible hours • Clean, calm, positive environment

You Go... I’ll Stay!

The Most Awesome Family Guidebook on the Planet!

CHILD CARE SERVICES

Ms. Lorel

239-631-3041

The all-new Second Edition is the perfect guide for visitors, local families, classrooms, homeschool groups and libraries. Twice as many colorful photos and illustrations...more super-fun attractions and experiences...more freaky factoids and inside tips. Plus, all the websites and phone numbers you need. It’s absolutely, positively not just for kids! Available in the best bookstores, gift shops, and on amazon.com.

• Masters Degree • Experienced Tutor • CPR, First Aid Certified • Clean driving and FBI record • Day/Evening/ Overnight

AN ORGANIZED HOME IS A HAPPY HOME 50% OFF INSTALLATION

*

*Limit one offer per household. Must purchase 5+ Classic/Designer Shelves.

EXP 12/31/20

Prepare for power outages with a Generac home standby generator SCHEDULE YOUR FREE IN-HOME ASSESSMENT TODAY!

855-649-0003

FREE

7-Year Extended Warranty* A $695 Value!

Offer valid August 24, 2020 - December 31, 2020

Special Financing Available Schedule Your FREE Design Consultation: ®

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(877) 804-0518

Subject to Credit Approval

*Terms & Conditions Apply

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

NAPLESZOO.ORG

HOW NAPLES ZOO DOES

FACETIME Naples Zoo is taking you and your family to new heights! Visit Naples Zoo today to see our new elevated giraffe feeding experience and exhibit for a face to face encounter with the world’s tallest animal!

TRAVELING EXHIBIT AT NAPLES ZOO

BRICKLIVE Giraffe Hours to Build: 167 Weight: 348 pounds Brick Count: 42,659 bricks Dimensions: 12 ft. tall x 7 ft. long

Over 30 Brick Statues on Exhibit through April 4, 2021 Free with paid Zoo admission.

Copyright © Brick Live Group Limited. All rights reserved.

Brick Live Group Limited is an independent producer of BRICKLIVE and is not associated with The LEGO Group.

LEGO® is a trademark of LEGO Juris A/S.

NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020

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“Educating the mind without educating the heart is no education at all.” –Aristotle

ENROLL NOW for the 2021-2022 School Year!

Visit our website to learn more.

TUITION-FREE K-12 School Top 2% of All Florida Public Schools A-Rating Every Year Since Inception Focus on Virtue and Knowledge Rich, Challenging Curriculum Proven Track Record “Knowledge is in every country the surest basis of public happiness.”

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– George Washington

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Website: MasonAcademy.com Address: 3073 Horseshoe Dr. S., Naples Email: Info@Masonacademy.com NEAPOLITANfamily • December 2020 Phone Number: (239) 227-2838