Giggle Magazine - June/July 2016 - Gainesville by Irving Publications, LLC

alachua

county’s

PREMIER

p a re n t i n g

M AGA Z I N E

MEET OUR HOTTIE DAD WINNERS!

JUNE/JULY 2016 Volume 8 • Issue 3

Ice Cream…it IS worth screaming for!

9 must-haves for your next coastal getaway

getting hot? recognize these 5 ailments

s u l p

A DAY AT THE BEAGCS SH AND,

ALL THIN RF! SUN & SU

www.gigglemagazine.com gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016 1

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Nicole Irving ART DIRECTOR Allison Raber COPY EDITOR Colleen McTiernan GRAPHIC DESIGNERs Tanya Consaul, Claire Stortz Vice president of sales Shane Irving marketing assistant Delia Albert ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Nick DeConna, April Tisher, Theresa Westberry executive assistant Sayeh Farah Event photographer Anabel Wheeler 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 AB Photography, Stephanie Acar Photography

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

gigglemagazine.com giggle@irvingpublications.com Giggle Magazine is a registered trademark property of Irving Publications, LLC. All rights reserved. Giggle Magazine is published by Irving Publications, LLC. ÂŠ 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 publisherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s opinion. Giggle Magazine will consider all never before published outside editorial submissions. Irving Publications, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or reject all outside editorial submissions and makes no guarantees regarding publication dates.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Creating happy, healthy smiles, one child at a time. Providing specialized dentistry for children and adolescents in a â&#x20AC;&#x153;child-friendlyâ&#x20AC;? environment, we focus on preventive care to help each child have a healthy smile that will last a lifetime.

Serving infants, children and teens in Gainesville and surrounding areas State-of-the-art digital technology Latex-free office Now accepting insurance from Humana, Delta Dental PPO and Solstice

Haile Plantation Village Center 5209 SW 91st Drive, Gainesville, FL 32608 and Northwest Professional Center 4910 NW 27th Court, Gainesville, FL 32608 Dr. Robert N. Mixon, D.M.D., P.A. Dr. Michael G. Gooch, D.M.D. Dr. Andrew C. Gooch, D.M.D.

Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00am-5:00pm

Dr. Mixon and Dr. Gooch are Board Certified Pediatric Dentists gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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.

E K AY L E

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!), letâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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!

OLI VIA

What are your names?

Olivia and Kaylee

What grade will you be in next fall?

7th What are you looking forward to this summer?

O: Running with my cross country team every day this summer and going to the Keys with my family.

Nicole Irving, Publisher nicole@irvingpublications.com

JOSH

K: Going to sleepaway camp in North Carolina.

NICO

What are your names?

Nico

and Josh

What grade will you be in next fall?

N: 7th

What is your favorite book?

N: Burning Nation by Trent Reedy

O: I love the Selection Series of books.

J: The Minecraft series

What is your favorite summer treat?

J: 3rd

What are you looking forward to this summer?

N: Another year at Camp Crystal and surf camp. J: Riding my skateboard and playing with my friends

N: Rita's Juicy Pear Italian Ice J: Pizza

What is your favorite summer memory?

N: Spending 4th of July at Summer House with the Colemans and Costibiles. J: Going to the springs with gymnastics camp

K: Out of My Mind by Sharon Draper

What is your favorite summer treat?

O: Hyppo Popsicles (strawberry basil is my favorite!)

K: C heerwine!

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 70, for even more cute styles and head over to snapperrock.com to snag some gear for your kiddos!

Like us on Facebook /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

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Visit us on Pinterest /GIGGLEMAGAZINE

O: Parasailing in the Keys. K: Spending time with my family in Watercolor, Florida Follow us on Instagram @GIGGLEMAGAZINE

Photo by Stephanie Acar.

What is your favorite summer memory?

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

june · july 2016 happy family • happy community

25 happy home 58 Timing Purchases Perfectly! 62 The Perfect Gifts for Him! 64 Queries from the Curious 66 Summerize Your House 68 The Honey–Don’t List

learn 78 Keeping Your Family Safe from

life 8

How I Work with My Husband... Peacefully!

10 9 Must Have Items for Family

Fun at the Beach

Hot Car Fatalities

conception 2✱ college™

happy community 102 June/July Calendar 104 corkboard

86 expecting

The Hardest Goodbye...to Date

12 Tips for Visiting the Happiest

Place on Earth

20 Passing Down Traditions...

One Story At A Time

Baby Needs a New Pair of Shoes

90 TODDLER

Let’s Get Crafty!

92 early years

Calming Those Kindergarten Nerves —

22 happy family Scheer Family

forks & spoons

for Both Parents and Kids!

94 kids

Too Young to Wear That?

32 Easy All-American Recipes

98 tweens

34 Chicken Salad Shake-Up

36 Easy All-American Recipes

100 teens

When Is It Smart to Get Your Child a Smartphone?

Hazing in High School: It Can Happen

health

ALACHUA

25 38 70 6

Chill Out! Hottie Dads 2016

A Day at the Beach

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

25 10

PARENTING

MAGAZINE

JUNE/JULY 2016 Volume 8 • Issue 3

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

52 Leave Them at the Door 55 Summer Sun Protection

PREMIER

MEET OUR HOTTIE DAD WINNERS!

GIGGLE MAGAZINE

50 Staying Safe in the Summer Sun

fe a tu res

COUNTY’S

ICE CREAM…IT IS WORTH SCREAMING FOR!

9 MUST-HAVES FOR YOUR NEXT COASTAL GETAWAY

GETTING HOT? RECOGNIZE THESE 5 AILMENTS

plu 70

A DAY AT THE BEACH

GS SAND, ALL THIN ! SUN & SURF www.gigglemag.com GIGGLEMAG.COM | JUNE/JULY 2016 1

Photo by Stephanie Acar

Happy Family photo by AB Photography. Beach photo by Stephanie Acar.

15 POWER PARENT Taylor Martin

88 infant

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

life So, how do I work with my husband? 1

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.

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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

• 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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

life Baudino Sand Golf $17.99, HabaUSA.com. 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

life

t h e pa r e n t l i f e

Tips for Visiting the Happiest Place on Earth BY NICOLE IRVING

Visiting the Magic Kingdom, the land where all is happy and carefree, can be an expensive and exhausting excursion, especially with children. It can quickly turn from the land of happiness and giggles to the land of tears and empty wallets. However, with a little planning and some tips from those who navigate the Magic Kingdom on a regular basis, you can have a tear-free, affordable and memorable trip! Tips from Julie Mishoe, mom of two Download the Disney World App (My Disney Experience). It’s magical! It will not only book your fast passes for your visit, but also give you the wait times of every ride and show at the park when you’re trying to decide what to do next. Fast Passes. You can book three fast passes before your day in the park if your ticket is registered on your Disney account. Book them as early in the day as you’re planning to get to the park. The kiosks allow you to add an additional fast pass after you’ve used your first three. Make your own character autograph book. Get a notebook, buy some Disney stickers and let the kids build up their excitement for the trip by decorating their own book. Pack a backpack. Bring a travel-size sunscreen, baby wipes and hand sanitizer. Roll ponchos at the bottom, just in case of a Florida cloud burst. While everyone else runs for cover, you can take advantage of shorter lines. The ponchos being at the bottom also helps cushion the bag against your lower back. Bring a refillable water bottle and food/snacks for the day; Disney lets you! While you’re in the park: Use your app to check wait times. While you are waiting for your next fast pass to start, you should take your kids to play the Sorcerers of the Magic Kingdom (only available in Magic Kingdom park). It is a free, interactive adventure game played throughout the park.

Get the Tables in Wonderland discount card. Formerly known as the Disney Dining Experience, this card is great for frequent visitors. It offers Florida Residents, Disney Vacation Club members and Annual Passholders 20 percent off the bill at park restaurants. Gratuity is automatically added to the bill at 18 percent. It costs between $150 – $175. (Some restrictions apply.) Watch the parades from inside. If you go to the Columbia Harbor House in Magic Kingdom and sit upstairs near the windows, you

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Tips from ROSEMARY anderson, mom of two Stand out. Add a unique balloon or something that will let you find your stroller in a sea of strollers, especially when the staff moves them. If you are just going for the day, avoid going after a rainy day. All the people staying on the Disney property will be there and it will be so crowded! Get a silhouette of your child’s face! While your child is posing for the artist, they’ll let you charge your phone for free. Tips from leslie vega, mom of two Dodge the meal rush. Eat on off hours to avoid the lunch and dinner rush. Have a snack to hold you over and eat right after lunchtime or dinner time, when the lines have died down. No need to arrive early. Enjoy your hotel and its amenities for a couple hours and arrive later when the crowds are diminishing and the weather is not so hot. If you make it to the park around 3pm or 4pm and leave when the park closes, you still get a good 8 to 9 hours and your kids aren't as grumpy from a full 12 to 16 hour day. • Bring an umbrella stroller if you can get away with it. - Lauren • Baby Wearing! You can’t bring a stroller in line, so baby wearing is a lifesaver! - Rachel • Bring your own glow in the dark necklaces. $1 at the dollar store. - Ali • The infant center up near main street is the best place EVER for changing diapers, nursing/feeding babies and to get out of the hot sun! - Alison

Tips from Earl Stephens, father of three

will have a very nice view of the parades that come from the Main Street parade route. You will be able to eat lunch or dinner in air conditioning while the parade is going on.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

life

p o w e r pa r e n t

taylor martin

Casualty litigation specialist for Nationwide Insurance Wife to James, mommy to Addison Jean, 15 months, and zorro the siamese cat

Balancing work life and home life can be tough. Just ask Taylor Martin, a working mother to her 15-month-old daughter, Addison Jean. But with help from her parents, who watch Addison Jean during the week, a supportive husband and some serious organizational skills, Martin manages to maintain the balance between her work family at Nationwide Insurance and her own family.

PHOTOS BY AB PHOTOGRAPHY

What does your typical workday look like? I arrive to work around 7 a.m. and turn on my computer to check emails. One of my success tips is arriving to work early. This allows me to knock out a lot of items before anyone else even arrives. I then see if I was assigned any new lawsuits and review those first. The rest of the day consists of reviewing complaints that were filed and assigning them out to our defense counsels for a defense for our members. I also mix in a lot of mediations, file conferences, litigation plans, records reviews and, of course, a quick lunch! I love the office atmosphere here and really enjoy working with my co-workers. They are my Nationwide family.

How do you balance work life and family life? The struggle is real when it comes to work-life balance. For me, organization and maximizing my time are the best ways to balance the two. I am always trying to be proactive and try to evaluate my day-to-day activities by setting priorities. That way, I can mitigate the need to stay late at the office and spend time with my family.

What are 5 things you must have at work?

First and foremost — gum! Then of course blue pens for writing, my Yeti cup for ice water, my co-workers and my tennis shoes for walking breaks around the building!

Who is your greatest inspiration?

My greatest inspiration is my Dad. I admire his honesty and dependability the most.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

What is your coffee order? A venti wet cappuccino from Starbucks!

When and how do you make time for yourself?

After Addison goes to bed, I love just sitting down and relaxing with a nice glass of wine and catching up on social media. On the weekends I enjoy time by the pool and getting pedicures.

Who are your biggest supporters?

By all means, my husband and both my parents.

What advice would you give other working parents?

Sometimes it can get overwhelming being a parent and working full time — I totally get it! The best advice I can give to other working parents is to stop, breathe and remember that just because we don’t know exactly how it’s going to work, doesn’t mean that it isn’t going to work.

What is your go to breakfast?

Oatmeal! I love oatmeal, and it doesn’t hurt that it’s good for me and filling, too!

Finish this sentence: I hope that I have taught my daughter Independence and honesty.

What sacrifices/ compromises have you had to make?

I am very fortunate to have my parents watch Addison during the weekdays while my husband and I work. I really haven’t had to make many sacrifices/ compromises. ✽

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

UF Health

Uf HEalth

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

life

G RAN D PARENT S

Passing Down Traditions...One Story At A Time BY Taryn Tacher

There’s an indescribable, irreplaceable bond between parents and their children — one that’s part mentor, part disciplinarian and part friend. While this connection is undeniably strong, it’s not the only one that’s instrumental. The relationship between a grandparent and his or her grandchildren offers a unique set of responsibilities and rewards. Grandparents don’t have to reprimand. They don’t have to take away dessert because their granddaughter misbehaves. They don’t have to declare a time out sentencing when their grandson refuses to clean his room. Grandparents can offer all of the love, guidance and fun without carrying the weight of raising a mature, selfsufficient adult. And perhaps, that even makes children more receptive to their grandparents — because they can unapologetically be themselves without fear of being berated. A child looks to his or her grandmother for homemade cookies and card games and to grandfather for wartime stories and crinkly-edged photographs of mom with an outlandishly embarrassing haircut from when she was 9. Grandparents are the keys to the past. They’re living history, packed with experiences and insight, and an uncanny memory of the price of bubblegum back in the ’40s.

Children are infused with technology now. It’s as if they’re born with iPhones in their hands and Fitbits on their wrists. They might learn how to use these devices through osmosis, but the same

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

What to Pass Down to Your Grandchildren? • Grandma’s chicken soup recipe • How to sew on a button or fix a hem • Grandpa’s lucky handkerchief

Children need their grandparents to keep them grounded, to show them how to solve problems and execute tasks when technology fails them. But, in an age where gadgets are so readily accessible, it’s sometimes difficult to coerce a child to become independent from electronics and the Internet. To increase their willingness to part with their tablets and game consoles, try the following:

• The famous “I walked miles in the snow to get to school” story

• Create a schedule that designates time for different activities (cooking, scrapbooking, watching TV, • Explain the importance of each task and show how it can be fun. • Establish a long-term project, divide it into parts and complete one part at a time over the course of weeks or months. • Pay attention to children and their preferences. If it’s impossible to catch their focus, try a different activity. ✽

• Grandpa’s secret local fishing holes

• How to tie different types of knots • Grandpa’s old-fashion backgammon board • Grandma’s wedding dress • How to set the table correctly • How to crochet • How to knit • How to make tomato sauce • How to play piano • Home remedies for colds or injuries

For all of the things parents might not get around to sharing with their children, grandparents can fill in the gaps. They play an integral role in bringing up a child by supplying snippets of the past — rarely used skillsets and a varied perspective — that the ample age gap allows them to do.

cannot be said for those age-old to-dos that grandparents know so well. If not grandparents, who will teach kids to bake, knit or play piano? Will they know how to address an envelope or pen a beautiful letter in cursive? Will they even appreciate actual books or printed photographs?

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

life

h a p p y f a m i ly

Meet t he

Scheer Family

We feel like Gainesville is a tight-knit community and a peaceful place to raise our family.

Jeremy, Natasha, Burton (12), Mackenzie (12), Reagan (6), Alexandra (4)

PHOTOS BY AB PHOTOGRAPHY

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Occupation(s): Jeremy is a CPA and Natasha is a family law mediator. Favorite local restaurants: 4 Rivers, Las Margaritas and Chopstix. Favorite local “Must go” places: The Swamp, the springs and the O’Connell Center to watch Gator gymnastics. What are your children’s favorite meals that you cook? Chicken potpie and pastitsio (a Greek lasagna dish). What is your family’s favorite holiday? There is a split in the family as to whether Christmas or Easter is better. For now, I guess we will say it’s a tie. Describe your family in 3 words: Hospitable, loud and funny. Favorite games to play as a family: Sequence, Parcheesi and charades. Do you have any pets? Shot Gun Willie (aka Willie), our pet schnoodle who joined our family this past October. Why do you love raising your family in Gainesville? We love having access to all of the sporting events our university has to offer. We feel like Gainesville is a tight-knit community and a peaceful place to raise our family. What makes your kiddos laugh? Being tickled and witnessing Mommy and Dadddy’s many faux pas. What would your family's dream vacation be? Hawaii. Is there anything exciting coming up for your family? SUMMER! And road trips to see Mimi and Papa in Oklahoma. Favorite date spot: Jeremy and I love to ride our bikes to local restaurants (Chopstix is our favorite). Our family is most like: We’re not sure. A mix between the Brady Bunch, the Griswolds and “Modern Family.” Movie in our DVD player right now: “Little House on the Prairie.” The kids’ favorite books: “Harry Potter.”

Mommy and Daddy’s favorite TV shows: We don’t really watch that much TV. We love watching the Gators play. Our kids’ favorite shows are “Duck Dynasty” and “Little House on the Prairie.” Websites we love: Pinterest. Favorite picnic spot: The park near our home. Favorite family activity: Watching Gator games and taking bike rides. ✽

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Stephanie Acar P H O TO G R A P H E R

HELLO THERE. I’m Stephanie. I’m a portrait photographer, and I’d love to meet you and your family. I strongly believe in the need to exist in photographs. Photography may seem like a large investment, but the art we can create together is far bigger and more important than anything material you could buy. All families deserve to have ma their story told, to celebrate their lives. I want to illustrate your story.

FASHION | PORTRAIT | FAMILY | EVENT 24

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Jacksonville, FL | Phone : 352.870.9705 | stephanieacar.com

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

Who Invented the Ice Cream Cone? There have been conflicting stories regarding the invention of the ice cream cone since its inception. More often than not, the creation is attributed to Ernest Hamwi, who is said to have created the first cone at the 1904 St. Louis World’s Fair. As the story goes, Hamwi was running a booth that sold waffles. When a neighboring vendor selling ice cream ran out of cups, he constructed an edible cone from a fresh waffle, leading to the creation of the ice cream cone. According to Jane Marchiony Paretti, her father, Italo Marchiony, is the true inventor of the ice cream cone. When Marchiony arrived from Italy in 1895, he operated a push cart on Wall Street, selling lemon ices. After growing tired of losing dishes to breakage or being accidentally taken, he decided to create an edible cup for his customers. He found that a thin waffle could be shaped into a bowl while still warm and would keep its shape. His waffle cups were a hit, and soon after Marchiony designed and patented a machine to mass produce the waffles to be made into cups.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

vanilla

remains the most popular flavor among their consumers.

The average American consumes almost

22 pounds

of ice cream per year. U.S. ice cream companies made more than 872 million gallons of ice cream in 2014.

The World’s Fair story is also true. As it turns out, according to Paretti, her father was among the vendors at the Fair. When he ran out of the waffle bowls he had brought along, he asked a nearby waffle vendor, Hamwi, to roll a waffle into the next best thing…a cone.

According to a recent survey of International Ice Cream Association member companies,

According to the International Dairy Foods Association, about

1.53 billion

According to the Guinness Book of World Records, The tallest ice cream cone measures

3.08 m

gallons of ice cream and related frozen desserts were produced in the U.S. in 2013.

(10 ft 1.26 in)

in height and was achieved by Hennig-Olsen Is AL and Trond L WĂ¸ien (both Norway) at Kristiansand, Norway, on 26 July 2015.

Ice Cream is created by combining milk, cream, sugar and various other ingredients. It normally takes about

3 gallons

of milk to create just 1 gallon of ice cream.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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? 28

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!

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

››

Cake Cone

››

Inaugural benefit event for the Alachua County Humane Society

november 10, 2016

Save the Date!

Thursday, November 10th, 2016 | 6 PM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 10 PM The Barn at Rembert Farms in Alachua, Florida THANK YOU TO OUR EARLY SPONSORS!

For sponsorship information and further details, please call Margot Wilder at 352-415-2460. www.alachuahumane.org | 4205 NW 6th Street | Gainesville, Florida 32609

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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.

More than Just Ice Cream! Which of these frozen treats have you tried?

older

Guinn e

ok World Reco Bo r

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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

forks & spoons

Easy 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

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 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 fresh strawberry.“ - Nicole Irving

Sangria

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

forks & spoons

Chicken Salad Shake-Up 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

• 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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

• Discard carcass (or, use for chicken stock!) • Add salt, pepper and onion powder to taste.

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

➜ 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.

Crunchy Salad: Celery Granny Smith apples Raw pecans Red onion slices Relish Diced carrots

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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! ✽

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.

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352-332-7911 MontiniOrtho.com gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

In the words of wife, kourtney  "jason has

grown to become the best air guitar player, the most creative block-tower builder, the most efficient blow-out cleaner upper, and above all, the calm and fun piece to our parenting puzzle. He is the MVP of living room football and the most faithful bedtime prayergiver I could have ever imagined for my child. Between the long hours of working, the spilled goldfish in the car seat, the dreams for our future, and the endless runs to the store for diapers (and wine), I don’t share with him often enough, but he is our hero, and he makes it look good."

Meet our Hottie Dads 2016 winner!

jason robinson Vice President at Robinson Renovation and Custom Homes Dad to Walker, 19 months What is the best part about being a dad? One of the highlights of every day for me is walking through the door after a long day at work and my son running up to me with a huge smile, yelling “DADA!”

Do you have any special “dad” routines? I wake my son up every morning and get him out of his crib. Every time he hears the doorknob moving he jumps up with a tired smile and is ready to start the day.

What part of parenting scares you the most? It scares me that there will be a day that I will not be around to help guide him through life.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment? My most memorable dad moment was when my son said “Dad” and looked right at me for the first time.

What has been the funniest parent moment so far? Looking back, it would have to be the start of our recent trip to Sea World. We left home early in the morning with a brand new “big boy” car seat and a newly detailed car. We got about 10 minutes from the house and our son got carsick — everywhere. At the time it was not funny, but once all the mess was cleaned up (delaying our trip a couple hours) we laughed several times about it on the way down to Sea World.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

MEET OUR 2 0 1 6

Which TV or movie dad are you most like? Clark Griswold.

Do you have a special meal you cook? Grilling steaks.

Describe your parenting style in 3 words. Flexible, loving and structured.

What is something you learned from your dad that you want to make sure you do? I want to instill a love of the outdoors in my children. It has been a huge part of my life. I grew up spending almost every weekend with my dad on the water or in the woods. I have learned many life lessons and enjoyed many irreplaceable memories in the outdoors and want the same for my children.

What is one superhero power you wish you had to help with parenting? Flying would be nice. It would certainly help keep my kids occupied and entertained.

What is the one thing that you hope your child/children learn from you? I hope that my children learn that hard work and determination paired with sound morals and honesty are what will make you successful in all aspects of life.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

kyle newell wealth management advisor Dad to Logan, 4, and Steven, 6 months What is the best part about being a dad?

The little moments of daily life with my boys are the best. For instance, the other day Logan was busy putting together some Legos as I sat by his side. Then, suddenly, he looked up and said “Daddy, I love you.” He gave my arm a tight squeeze and a kiss then went back to his work. It’s also hard to beat the ear-to-ear grin on Steven’s face when I come home from work.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

I am regularly cast as Optimus Prime with Logan staring as “the mean wolf dog” (not sure who that is), who turns into Bumble Bee, who turns into a puppy in an epic battle against “Doc Morocco” (aka a pillow on my bed) and his morbots (more pillows). Once we have secured a victory, we wind down for the night by reading a variety of books and telling adventurous bedtime stories of playing with dinosaurs or traveling to distant lands. When it comes time for Steven’s bedtime, my five S (shushing, sideways positioning, swaddling, swinging and sucking) game is solid. I mean, when it’s time to put Steven down to sleep, I hold that little guy high and tight like a football, initiate the five S’s and voila, Steven is out like a light.

Who was/is your biggest influence on your parenting style?

I know they say to never talk about politics and religion, but I would be lying if I gave any other answer than Jesus. His life and teachings have changed me from the inside out and have not only influenced my parenting style, but also who I am as a person. From the purpose and meaning I find through Him flows how I want (key word want — life is a process and it goes one day at a time) to live my life, including how I interact with and raise my children.

Which TV or movie dad are you most like?

Most likely Tim “The Tool Man” Taylor from “Home Improvement.” I can’t fix a thing, but I’ll give it a good go until Brooke has to call a professional and potentially a medic. It has been at least 10 days since the last major accident.

In the words of wife, brooke  "words cannot even begin to express how wonderful of a dad kyle is to logan and steven. kyle makes sacrifices on a daily basis for our family and works extremely hard to provide for us. he is a godly man and teaches both boys about god's unconditional love for them. no matter what type of day kyle has had, he is always excited to see his boys."

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Nick Giese Alachua County Firefighter/Paramedic Dad to Jacob, 11, and Korinne, 9 What is the best part about being a dad?

Watching your kids learn something new — and excel at it — is always so rewarding. As a dad, I want to see them exceed at all their endeavors, even if that means showing me up at fishing on our boat.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

When I am not on shift at the fire station, I sing the kids a song before bed. Paul Simon, Plain White T’s and Owl City are some of their acapella favorites.

What part of parenting scares you the most?

Being a firefighter, you see how the status quo can change in the blink of an eye. Situations beyond my control, involving those I care about, scare me the most.

Which TV or movie dad are you most like?

I think Adam Braverman from “Parenthood” is the most like me. Adam was the guy who wanted to be the best father, husband, son and brother that he could be. I think he was a good mix of cool yet structured in his approach to parenting.

Do you have a special meal you cook?

I am a jack-of-all-trades when it comes to cooking. I do not have a specialty meal, but some of the family’s favorites are BBQ in the smoker, fish in the fryer and pizza on the grill. I have learned different southern techniques from the firehouse that I try to incorporate in the mix, too.

Describe your parenting style in 3 words.

Let ‘em loose! Successful parenting is finding a balance between pushing your kids toward independence and being a dependable guiding force for them in the background.

What is something you learned from your dad that you want to make sure you do? I learned the importance of working hard to get the job done right the first time and persevering through the difficulties to see it through. I want my kids to understand that hard work is necessary to accomplish anything in life. Sitting back and waiting for it to happen for you is not an option.

PHOTOS BY AB PHOTOGRAPHY

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

Take responsibility for the choices that you make, whether they turn out to be the right choices or the wrong choices. No matter what stage of life you are in, celebrate your triumphs and grow from your failures.

In the words of wife, Katie  "nick is a true hero in every sense of the word. he has taught our children the importance of service to our community through his actions and not just words. i love his honesty, his loyalty, his sense of humor, his devotion to his faith and his bravery. It is an incredible feeling to have a husband that is able to teach our children that the world's real heroes aren't imaginary." gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

ashley ghiaseddin Neuro-Oncologist at UF Dad to Leila, 2 ½, and Parisa, 6 months Do you have any special “dad” routines?

I tuck my daughter Leila in bed every night. She gets to pick out three or four books and we also talk and sing. It’s something I look forward to every evening and I think Leila does too!

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

When my wife was pregnant with our second daughter she ended up on hospital bed rest for two weeks. I was basically on my own working and taking care of our older daughter. It was challenging, but it brought my daughter and I even closer. That experience also gave me a whole new perspective and admiration for everything my wife does for our family every day!

Who is your biggest influence on your parenting style?

My grandfather is one of the kindest, most compassionate and honest men I have ever known. I strive to be the kind of family-oriented man he has been for over 90 years.

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

My family and I went to the beach for the day, and I was helping change my daughter’s diaper in the back of our SUV. I gave my daughter a tube of diaper cream to hold, hoping to keep her hands occupied during the diaper change. She ended up squirting the diaper cream EVERYWHERE. It was all over her hair, her face and even on the ceiling of the car. This was months ago and we are still finding remnants of that diaper cream in the car!

Which TV or movie dad are you most like?

This is a hard question. Even though my girls are still young, I can relate to the fatherly emotions of Steve Martin from “Father of the Bride.” I get choked up just thinking of my daughters leaving home or getting married already! Cooking is definitely not one of my strengths. I have been known to make a peanut butter sandwich or macaroni and cheese on occasion and haven’t received any complaints.

In the words of wife, Alison  "My husband is the most amazing man and dad to our two young girls. as a doctor he puts his heart and soul into helping others on a daily basis and as a result, works long hours. his intense workload still does not prevent him from making time for his family and making sure we feel loved every day." 44

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

PHOTOS BY AB PHOTOGRAPHY

Do you have a special meal you cook?

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Matt Deprospero systems administrator at ufit Dad to Jared, 7, and Joel,3 What is the best part about being a dad?

The best part about being a dad is waking up every morning to smiling faces.

Do you have any special “dad” routines?

I have secret handshakes with both of my boys.

What is your most memorable “dad” moment?

My most memorable moment is when both of my boys put on my shoes and said “Look, I’m daddy.” It may be a little moment, but it showed me that I was making a positive impact in their lives.

What has been the funniest parent moment so far?

The funniest parent moment so far was once when we put Joel to bed. Everything was OK, and then about 10 minutes later he came out of his room with his underwear on his head. My wife and I cracked up.

Which TV or movie dad are you most like?

The TV dad that I am most like is Phil Dunphy (Ty Burrell). He’s kooky and sometimes has no clue what he is saying or doing, but in the end he makes things right.

Do you have a special meal you cook?

I love to cook my family breakfast. I am the pancake king in our house.

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

My dad has this saying: “Yes I can. Yes I will.” That means never give up. Push yourself to the limit. When I was growing up the word “can’t” was not allowed. Till this day he still reminds me of his saying. I have carried that tradition on to my own boys.

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

PHOTOS BY AB PHOTOGRAPHY

I’m not sure if there is a superhero power that would help with parenting. Being a parent is being a superhero — from cleaning up boo boos, to catching a bug in their room and putting it back outside, to being compassionate toward them when their feelings get hurt. I could go on forever. If anything, a superhero should be asking for the Parent Power.

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

To treat people with respect. You gain respect from people, and it just opens up so many different opportunities in life.

In the words of wife, melanie  "matt is a loving, kind, easygoing and supportive dad. in august of last year he started a group at our son's elementary school called wildcat dads. each month he has arranged and hosted events that get dads, grandpas and uncles involved with their kids to create memories and build strong bonds. he makes me so happy and proud and is definitely worth being titled a hottie dad!" gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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

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

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

How

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

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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

• • •

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

health

Leave Them at the Door by NICOLE GERMANY

Shoes are an essential part of our lives. 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 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 means 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 leaving 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

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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

health

Summer Sun Protection 1

Nature’s Gate Face Broad Spectrum SPF 25 Sunscreen Infused with natural botanicals, Nature’s Gate Sunscreens help protect skin against UV exposure while soothing and hydrating skin. Whole Foods $11.49 2. Aloe & Linden Flower After SunSoother This intensely hydrating, quickabsorbing face and body lotion is packed with natural aloe vera and linden extract to soothe. After a long day in the sun, your skin needs some extra TLC. Burtsbees.com $10

2 4

3. Age Perfect® HydraNutrition–Facial Oil SPF 30 Daily sunscreen that gives an instant glow with a lightweight, non-greasy formula. | Lorealparisusa.com $19.99 4. eltaMD UV Aero BroadSpectrum SPF 45 This sunscreen is fragrance-free, oil-free, paraben-free, sensitivity-free and noncomedogenic Gainesville Dermatology $31

3 5

5. Sheer Physical UV Defense SPF 50 Ultra-sheer and transparent 100 percent physical broad spectrum sunscreen protection with no chemical filters SkinCeuticals.com $34 6. Blue Lizard Australian Sunblock, Baby This chemical and paraben-free sunblock is 10 percent zinc oxide and 5 percent titanium dioxide. Gainesville Dermatology

→

6 7 54

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

7. Sunforgettable® Mineral Sunscreen Brush SPF 30 This self-dispensing powder sunscreen makes sun protection application simple throughout the day. Gainesville Dermatology $57

PHOTO BY TANYA CONSAUL

The Smart Bottle™ turns pink in $16.04 the presence of harmful UV rays, reminding you to cover up. The deeper pink the bottle becomes, the more UV rays are currently present.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

happy home

Timing Your 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

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.

Clothing

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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.

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 at this time 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

2016

happy home

THE PERFECT GIFTS

by nicole irving

! m i H for

1. Obaku Watch Inspired by classic danish design traditions with a mix of asian zen philosophy. $269.00, Lang Jewelers.

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.

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.

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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

9 11

10 gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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.

ORGANIZE WITH

Style.

YOUR HOME. YOUR STYLE. YOUR CUSTOM CLOSET! (352) 318-0818 AMANDA@ADIVINECLOSET.COM ADIVINECLOSET.COM Amanda Carreon, Owner of A Divine Closet

VISIT ME ON HOUZZ.COM

VISIT ME ON FACEBOOK

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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.

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.

For bugs

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Who doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;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

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.

Cooler COMPANIONS 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! 72

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

Frozen Grapes

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.

Live Life at Legacy at Fort Clarke in Gainesville FL

Experience vintage Florida living nestled in the northwestern sector of thriving Gainesville, Florida. Legacy at Fort Clarke Apartments is an enclave unto itself, which is convenient to lakes, creeks, springs, and rolling greenery. Here you can appreciate the atmosphere of academia and take advantage of the finest medical facilities, while also enjoying the wilderness and outdoor recreation.

Apartment Ratingsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Top-Rated Community in 2013! (352) 224-4197 1505 Fort Clarke Blvd Gainesville, FL 32606

EGACY L L at fort clarke

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

866-294-7331

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

START WORKING ON YOUR SUMMER SMILE NOW WITH BRACES OR INVISALIGN!

DR. NICOLE MULLALLY FROM GIGGLE MAGAZINE

2222 NW 40th Terrace, Ste.B Gainesville 32605 352.336.2222 • www.studio32ortho.com

@STUDIO32ORTHO gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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!

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. gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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. ✽

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.

INFANTS • TODDLERS • PRESCHOOL • BEFORE & AFTER SCHOOL • SUMMER CAMP

WE NURTURE CURIOSITY Future explorers evolve in the way they investigate, learn, play and embrace new adventures. At Kiddie Academy®, we help children make the most of every learning opportunity.

LET’s GET STARTED! • Visit kiddieacademy.com/gainesville

This summer, our Camp Adventure program will have your child mentally and physically moving—even rocketing—to where they’ve never gone before.

• Call (352) 264-7724

ENROLL NOW FOR A SUMMER OF EXPLORATION AND ADVENTURES:

6476 SW 75th St Gainesville, FL 32608

• June 9–20: Exploring our Neighbors - Near and Far • June 23–July 3: Kiddie Academy® Olympics

Kiddie Academy of Gainesville

Open Monday – Friday, 6:30 a.m. – 6:30 p.m.

• July 7–18: Once Upon a Time • July 21–August 1: Wild and Wacky Fun • August 4–15: How Things Work • August 18–29: Dream Vacations gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

A D V E R T I S E M E NT

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All About Women OBSTETRICS AND GYNECOLOGY

Take Care of You. 352.331.3332 AllAboutWomenMD.com

Helping You Live a Healthy Lifestyle. 84

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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 Stephanie Acar.

Hazing in High School: It Can Happen

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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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!

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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! ✽

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. ✽

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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!

Walk this way

Do they still bronze baby shoes?

Excellence in Pediatric Eye Care • Full range of eye care services for infants, children and adolescents • Strabismus (crossing or drifting of the eyes) • Sports related eye injuries • Amblyopia or lazy eye • Blocked tear ducts • Ocular allergies • Evaluations of premature babies • Tracking and ocular motility issues • General eye care for kids and adult strabismus

Dr. Nausheen Khuddus, M.D.

Board Certified Fellowship Trained Pediatric Ophthalmologist

Tammy Toskes

Certified Orthoptist

(352) 372-9414 ext. 257

4340 Newberry Road, Suite 301, Gainesville, FL 32607 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

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

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

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.

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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. ✽

Painting

At home, wash rocks and dry thoroughly. Then cover the table with newspaper.

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!

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.

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

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.

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

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.

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

gigglemag.com | JUNE/JULY 2016

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early years

ages 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.

▶ 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? Continued on page 97

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.

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Continued from page 94

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. ✽

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tweens

ages 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.

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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teens Hazing in High School:

ages 1 4 - 1 8

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 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.

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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. ✽

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happy community

June 1 Last Day of School for Queen of Peace Academy June 3 Toxic Avenger Opening Night 8 p.m. Hippodrome Theatre Thehipp.org June 4 Kanapaha Guided Walk 10 a.m. – Noon Kanapaha Gardens Kanapaha.org June 4 World Sea Turtle Day Celebration 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Florida Museum of Natural History Eventful.com

June 9 Last Day of School for Alachua County Students June 9 City of Gainesville Teen Summer Programs: Pool Party 3 – 7 p.m. Andrew R. Mickle, Sr. Pool Cityofgainesville.org June 11 Harn Family Day: African Masquerades 1 – 4 p.m. Harn Museum of Art Harn.ufl.edu

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June 13 City of Gainesville Teen Summer Programs: Co-Ed Basketball Meeting 6 – 9 p.m. MLK Multipurpose Center Cityofgainesville.org June 16 – 25 Gainesville Restaurant Week Starting at 5 p.m. Gainesvillerestaurantweek.com June 18 Climb Out of the Darkness Walk 10 a.m. Westside Park Crowdrise.com June 18 –19 Swamp Challenge 9 a.m. Ben Hill Griffin Stadium Swampchallenge.com June 18 FLMNH Father’s Day Special 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Florida Museum of Natural History Flmnh.ufl.edu June 19 Father’s Day June 19 FLMNH Father’s Day Special Noon – 5 p.m. Florida Museum of Natural History Flmnh.ufl.edu June 19 Kanapaha Father’s Day Special 9 a.m. – 7 p.m. Kanapaha Gardens Kanapaha.org

July 1 Melon Run 8 – 10 a.m. Westside Park Runsignup.com July 2 Kanapaha Guided Walk 10 a.m. – Noon Kanapaha Gardens Kanapaha.org July 4 Independence Day July 4 2016 July 4th Celebration 3 – 10 p.m. Hal Brady Recreation Complex Cityofalachua.com July 4 Fireworks Over the Matanzas The All Star Orchestra – 6 p.m. Fireworks Over the Matanzas – 9:30 p.m. Downtown St. Augustine Staugustinegovernment.com July 16 Mandala for All: Mandala Art 1:30 – 3:30 p.m. Alachua County Library Headquarters aclib.us

June 4 Farm to Table Dinner 5:30 – 10 p.m. Swallowtail Farm Swallowtail.ticketleap.com

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

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