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Mary shares... Catching Kindness!

f all the responsibilities of parents, teaching kindness should be at the top of the list. I know most of you have at some point said to your child, “oh, that’s not nice,” and your child looked blankly at you. Well, that’s when we explain what they did and how it was not nice; followed by what would have been nice. Teaching moments come throughout the life cycle; beginning with sharing haring toys, kissing boo-boos, and hugging a crying sibling. As our children grow up and are socially active we need to understand that for them to comprehend the true value of kindness, its best when caught, not taught. Our children will only understand how to be kind by witnessing it from parents, other adult role models, other children, and given opportunities. I can remember my kids wanting to have a lemonade stand. It was right when Katrina came through Louisiana. I asked them what they were going to do with the money. They were not sure; so we discussed what was going on around us in our community and state. Then their eyes lit up! We continued to discuss the impact of the deadliest hurricane in the history of the United

States and they decided to call their campaign “Lemon-“AID” for Lives.” Well, our neighbors were amazingly kind! Most stopped just to donate to the cause and thanked the kids for giving them a way to help too. My son ran to me and said “Mom, this guy emptied a container ﬁlled with quarters, like 100 of them!” And the generosity was contagious and large! They did this for two days and were thrilled. The Spirit o of Texas fund accepted the money from the lemon-aid campaign, took pictures for the local paper and our kids, well they were empowered knowing they were helping many people in two different ways. For contributing all the money they collected to a fund set up to help the victims; and for giving an avenue for our neighbors to contribute to this cause (the Lemon-AID stand) as well. Not too long ago, researchers at the University of Michigan found that college age kids were less likely to look at situations from another point of view and would likely focus on their own need above others. They coined this as an empathy deﬁciency. We, the parents, can reverse this! And you can start with a lemon-aid stand. SP

Mary Ellen

“Tell me and I forget. Teach me and I remember. Involve me and I learn.” — Benjamin Franklin

COVER MODEL Zoe Zoe is a fun, smart, and energetic little girl who enjoys playing and snuggling with her puppy named Rocky. She also loves to swim, dance, play soccer, read books, crafting, and bike rides. Zoe would like to be a doctor, vet or a ballerina when she grows up. Misty Stagnone Photography, www.mistystagnonephotography.com

Suburban Parent magazines Lakeside Parent 8344 Sterling Street | Irving, Texas 75063 | 972.887.7779 editor@suburbanparent.com | advertising@suburbanparent.com Suburban Parent and Irving Parent are registered trademarks. Reader correspondence and editorial submissions are welcome. We reserve the right to edit all submissions due to space. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without express written permission is prohibited.

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love

the One You’re With! When you consider all the factors that shape your personality; your genes, parents, peers, you should know that your siblings are at the top, according to one major theory of human development. Sibling relationships will likely last longer than any others in your lifetime. Studies show that the way you interact with your siblings while growing up can affect your relationships, happiness, and even the way you see yourself throughout the rest of your life.

STERILIZE YOUR SPONGE

Toothpaste! Not Just for Teeth Toothpaste doesn’t just clean your teeth and make your breath smell fresh, it can also clean those stinky garlic or fish smells off your hands after you’ve been cooking in the kitchen. Just rub a small dab in your hands and the odor is gone. It’s best to use regular white paste, not gel. So next time you’re at the store, grab some toothpaste for the kitchen.

Your dish sponge is easily one of the dirtiest things in your kitchen (harbors bacteria) and it needs to be cleaned and sanitized often; at least every other day is a good idea. You can toss it in the dishwasher to get it clean, but to really decontaminate it, toss it in the microwave. Two minutes at full power and your sponge will be practically bacteria free. Note: Microwave only sponges or plastic scrubbers that don’t contain steel or metals. Also, make sure the sponge is wet before microwaving it and be careful when removing it. It will be hot!

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youshouldknow... Eat to Remember During the memory decline years you can stay sharp by eating foods that protect the brain from free-radicals. Recent studies published in Neurology found people with low levels of omega-3s had brains that appeared two years older in MRI scans! Prescription, heavy on produce, legumes, nuts and ﬁsh, less meat. It’s that simple! May want to supplement with B12 and Vit.D (ask your doctor).

germs be gone If you have little ones at home then hen you proba probaobably have lots of little plastic toyss lying ly ying g around aroun ar o d the house too (think legos!) You likely have lots of bath toys in the bathroom as well. When was the last time you washed these? Well, here’s a tip! You can wash these in your washing machine. Just put the toys in a mesh bag, place in machine and add a couple of towels at the same time. Use warm, not hot, water. It’s easy and an especially good idea if your kids have been sick. You can wash toys in the dishwasher too (minus the towels) on the top rack. Just make sure there aren’t any electronic parts.

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momsolvers

questions... RANDY, DAD OF ONE

JACKIE, SOON-TO-BE MOM OF 3

SHERRI, MOM OF ONE

asks...

Q Dear Editor, My teenager seems to be what I may consider a slow learner. How can I help him to focus more on the task at hand?

Q I am considering marriage again.

Q How can I tell if my child is shy

Well, you actually have part of the answer for this in your question. Help him to realize that multi-tasking is less effective. Research actually suggests that multi-tasking can make learning less effective because switching from one activity to another is less efﬁcient and he may make more errors. Have him become more efﬁcient by setting a pre-determined amount of time to study, read, explore or create. One subject at a time.

MARY ELLEN, EDITOR

My ﬁancé has 2 children, ages 8 and 11 (boys); I have one 13 year old girl. I am divorced and he is widowed. What’s the best scenario for blending our families?

Congratulations! While blending a family can bring so much joy, the initial phases of becoming a family can be challenging. It’s important to remember that you and your husband will be the foundation of this new relationship. Being open to change is important. Healthy blended families are patient; keep re-assessing expectations and work on forming healthy step-relationships. Consulting with each other before setting expectations is imperative for success. Family therapy for blended families serves as a critical tool to give members a safe and neutral ground to discuss issues and possibly minimize resentment.

SHEEZA MOHSIN-DHANANI, PHD STUDENT, TWU - FAMILY THERAPY

ask... the ob/gyn DR. KEVIN O’NEIL MACARTHUR OB/GYN

or scared of other children?

It’s important to pay attention to your child’s physical responses inside their body in these situations. Does your child exhibit a physiological change when around other children? Fear responses can create increased heartbeat, create rapid breathing, ﬁght or ﬂight responses, or a child can freeze up and become paralyzed with fear. A child who does not exhibit these physical changes may simply be shy and guarded around peers. A child may cling to their caregiver for emotional safety in these situations. With either the shy or frightened child, the caregiver’s role remains the same which is to provide emotional support and safety for the child through the child’s experiences.

ROBI HEALTH, M.ED, LPC, REGISTERED PLAY THERAPIST

I AM FEELING PRESSURE IN MY PELVIC AREA; MY FRIEND SAID IT COULD BE UTERINE PROLAPSE. I AM ONLY 32 YEARS OLD WITH TWO TERM PREGNANCIES (5 YEAR OLD AND 2 YEAR OLD). SHOULD I BE WORRIED?

It is possible that you have utero-vaginal prolapse. Prolapse is caused by a weakening of the muscles and connective tissues of the pelvic floor. The risk of developing prolapse increases with each delivery, age and weight gain. Prolapse symptoms can be managed conservatively with weight loss (if needed), pelvic floor exercises and Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation to strengthen the pelvic floor muscles, avoiding surgery. A visit to your ObGyn can confirm if you have prolapse, and if needed, a referral to an Urogynecologist for Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation can help your symptoms. — Dr. Kevin O’Neil specializes in Urogynecology along with Obstetrics and Gynecology.

EMAIL YOUR QUESTIONS to editor@suburbanparent.com, subject “questions” or SUBMIT QUESTIONS ON FACEBOOK.COM/MOMSOLVERS. Either way, we’ll ﬁnd answers! 8 | Lakeside Parent | Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Lakeside Parent!

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Dabbawalla

Bag POP CLOCK

An alarm that will “pop” your kid out of bed! It’s great for kiddos just learning to get out of bed by themselves. When the alarm goes off, the creature’s head pops off and ﬂies across the room making a boomboom chicka kind of noise. The alarm only stops when you ﬁnd his head and put it back on the clock. It’s actually kind of fun and your kid may wake and wait for the pop! Four bright colors to choose from and has two older siblings, Clocky and Tocky to help wake up your older kids too.

These are the cutest back packs and lunch bags ever! And they have a really fun name, too, that was inspired by the legendary dabbawallas delivering homemade lunch to ofﬁce workers in India. Functional, easy to pack and unpack, with adjustable straps and sturdy handles. These bags are sized perfectly for preschool and early elementary school children. Machine-washable and 100% toxic free. With 13 whimsical designs to choose from, kids will love them! FIND IT: www.dabbawallabags.com $30

PERSONALIZED PENCIL

pouch! Not just for pencils; but they do ﬁt great! There’s an outside zip pouch for erasers and change too. Plus, the inside pouch has a 1 1/2” expanding gusset to hold even more! Multi-colored nylon kids pencil pouch. Personalize with a name!

FIND IT: www.nandahome.com $25

FIND IT: www.MilesKimball.com $11.99

Simply Stylish W love this top for We “mom-time” while the “m kids are in school. The ki off the shoulder neckline of is attractive and you can pair it with your favorite pa jeans or over your workje ou out clothes (hint!) Light w weight fabric. F FIND IT: w www.loveandsweat.net $3 $35 (sale price)

Ava

to the Rescue e Tired of the tears and tantrums thatt come with getting g your children to take their heir medicine? Enter Ava the Elephant; the talking, ing, child-friendly medicine dispenser, as featured ured on ABC’s Shark Tank. FIND IT: www.avatheelephant.com $9.99

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moMENts BY PATRICK HEMPFING

Learning to Chill

don’t enjoy packing for trips. In fact, I’d almost rather have my dentist fix a cavity without novocaine. Don’t ask me how I managed to squeeze a high chair, stroller, and playpen into the van, along with the rest of our luggage, during my daughter, Jessie’s, baby years. I must admit that packing is a lot easier without that stuff. Jessie is eight years old now, so the most important piece of luggage is her “entertainment” suitcase – books, crayons, colored pencils, gel pens, paper, glue, scissors, and markers. Jessie’s bottles of glitter remain at home – always. To be honest, I wouldn’t be disappointed if they stayed in her art drawer – always. Wikipedia defines glitter as “an assortment of very small pieces of copolymer plastics, aluminum foil, titanium dioxide, iron oxides, bismuth oxychloride or other materials painted in metallic, neon and iridescent colors to reflect light in a sparkling spectrum.” I have my own definition, but I think its best not to put it in print. Let’s just say that I’m not a big fan. Jessie, on the other hand, can’t wait to do art projects using glitter. I enjoy watching her create things with Play-Doh. I applaud the masterpieces that she paints on her easel. I even smile when she pulls out her assorted containers of glue, even though I know that my fingers will end up sticking to something before all is said and done. But oh those very small pieces of copolymer plastics… According to Wikipedia, in 1934 machinist Henry Ruschmann invented a way to grind up plastics to make large quantities of glitter.

He founded Meadowbrook Inventions, still a major supplier of the substance. Its slogan is, “Our glitter covers the world.” I can’t verify the accuracy of the slogan, but I can attest that by the time Jessie finishes using it, glitter covers our house. Although I will never win a Good Housekeeping award for having the cleanest house, I do like to keep a tidy one. I’d give myself good grades for cleaning, except for dusting where I’d be happy with a C-. My wife and I were married for 19 years before Jessie came along. It was a lot easier to keep things tidy (and glitter-free) back then. When I compare our 19 years as a couple to the 8 years we’ve been a family of three (four really, with the dog), I have happy memories of both periods that I wouldn’t trade for anything. The status of the house (tidy or a mess) is not too important. That doesn’t mean, though, that I don’t need to take a few extra breaths when it seems like I’m taking one step forward and two steps back as I attempt to keep the house in order. I guess you could say I’m “learning to chill.” Jessie just finished making an 8-page, glitter-filled activity book at the kitchen table. She had so much fun working on this project as she drew ovals on the pages with glue, then buried them with glitter. Right now, glitter is everywhere – the table, chairs,

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floor, her clothing, and the dog. Even though I’ll vacuum the entire work area including her, glitter will somehow find its way into every room of the house. The “pre-chilled” dad would moan and groan. However, the “post-chilled” dad sees the sparkle in his child’s eyes, along with various places on her face and body, as she shows off her book. So thank you, Mr. Ruschmann, for your shimmery invention. But bigger thanks goes out to the inventor of the vacuum cleaner. Jessie prepared her activity book to take on an upcoming trip. She says it will make the time pass faster in the car. I praise Jessie for her creative idea and for taking responsibility for her own entertainment. However, that glitter-dripping book isn’t going anywhere near the family van. I guess I haven’t fully mastered the art of “chilling.” Here’s wishing you a fantastic summer of safe travels. May you be blessed with sufficient engineering skills to get everything packed. May you “chill” when your tank of patience runs on empty, which is bound to happen when family members are in a confined space for hours on end. But most importantly, may your travels leave you and your loved ones with glittering memories. Until next month, remember to cherish the moments. SP Patrick Hempfing had a 20-year professional career in banking, accounting, and auditing before he became a father at age 44. He is now a full-time husband, stay-at-home dad and writer.

DI RECTORY

ENJOY OUR DIRECTORY OF SPECIALISTS!

We know Kids are Special. That’s why we have the Specialists. We have the Specialists! From pediatric doctors to seasoned, nurturing educators; we are the source for all the needs of your family. Keeping it easy for you to ﬁnd “truly local” specialties and businesses.

Dentists JOEL B SHIELDS DDS, PC .............4 972-270-7535 www.joelshieldsdds.com

Schools CHILDREN’S TREEHOUSE BUCKINGHAM ......................................4 972-530-8438 www.treehouse4kids.net

MY KIDZ DENTAL/MY MOUTH DENTAL ...................................................5 972-412-5064 www.mykidzdental.com www.mymouthdental.com

PECAN CREEK DAY SCHOOL ..................................................5 972-463-1661 www.pecancreekkids.com

Extra-curricular Activities

SMALL MIRACLES ACADEMY ............................................ 15 972-495-0181 www.smallmiraclesacademy.org

PAINTING WITH A TWIST ........... 19 972-468-9370 www.paintingwithatwist.com/ garland ROCKWALL INDOOR SPORTS EXPO.................................... 15 972-772-9061 www.riserockwall.com SAFESPLASH SWIM SCHOOL ... 15 214-930-4112 www.safesplash.com TEXAS PREMIER YOUTH SPORTS.................................................. 13 469-834-8450 www.texaspremieryouthsports.com

Special Needs BAYLOR OUR CHILDREN’S HOUSE AT BAYLOR......................... 19 1-800-4BAYLOR (422-9567) www.baylorhealth.com/OCH KIDS IN-HOME THERAPY ............ 18 214-227-5333 www.kidsinhometherapy.com ROCKWALL PSYCHIATRY..............9 469-402-3600 www.rockwallpsychiatry.com

Tutoring Pediatricians PECAN CREEK PEDIATRICS ........ 11 972-772-3100 www.pecantreepediatrics.com

GRADE POWER LEARNING ........ 9 972-675-9505 www.gradepowerlearning.com

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Tips for New Easing the rs School Jitte

Y QUESTIONS OF SCHOOL EACH FALL. SO MAN NIGHT BEFORE THE FIRST DAY BE NICE? THE RS RS CHE HOU TEA FOR MY KE LD AWA WOU G ME? I REMEMBER LYIN THE YEAR HAVE IN STORE FOR DID T K? WHA IN. WOR BRA THE MY DLE UND HAN FIT OKAY? COULD I WERE SWIRLING ARO LD I BE BULLIED? WAS MY OUT ! WOULD I MAKE FRIENDS? WOU STARTING A BRAND NEW SCHOOL WAS I N WHE RS YEA IN ER HIGH MY ANXIETY WAS EVEN n very scary and ransitioning to a new school is ofte ge is because chan the ther Whe . child a difﬁcult for next educathe to of a move or getting promoted liar faces fami nd behi ing leav tional stage, they are their new start to ed excit be t migh they le and routines. Whi on their ter chap the e clos adventure, they are likely sad to . them for ing wait is t wha for old school and anxious for many years and ation educ hood child early in I worked their nervous parents) get helped hundreds of children (and . I’m working on a different rten erga kind to ready to transition hter is heading to a new sort of transition plan now - my daug middle school!

get ready for a Here are 7 tips to help your child age. r thei of ss rdle new school, rega r old school. This is Allow them to say goodbye to thei of the

re. Take photos a loss to them and they need closu tions within the school, loca or cts obje rite favo their school, members. Help them put staff ed their teachers and other valu with the pictures and m albu o phot or k pboo together a scra l or elementary school choo other mementos, such as their pres graduation “diploma”.

information for their Help them gather up the contact Arrange a way for them h. touc in stay friends, so they can ils or Skype.

e calls, texts, ema to maintain contact through phon within your same area, set ol If you are moving to a new scho the ﬁrst weeks of the new and mer sum the up play dates over from their old school are still school year. Knowing their friends ly as they make new friends. lone less out there will help them feel

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Tell them stories about al and natural part norm a it e Mak es. your school experienc site together and web ols of your conversation. Visit the scho h menus and basics lunc ed, offer ities read about the staff, activ s code. Tell your child how facts, such as arrival time and dres and that you think they’re ol excited you are for their new scho feel sad, angry, nervous may They . year going to have a great okay to feel that way. and afraid. Let them know that it’s

Talk about the new school often.

a new

they are entering Let them know what to expect. If , middle

in kindergarten phase, talk about what happens local bookstore or library the to Head school or high school. a similar phase. Read them for books featuring characters in characters are experiencing. the together and talk about what k down families who them about their with chat and dy attend the school alrea to meet other kids who experiences. Arrange for your child e friendships in the som attend the school, so they have

Connect with other students. Trac

works in advance. the school often. Point it re’s your new school!” each out to younger children, saying, “The your child to visit the and you time you pass by. Arrange for during the summer. tour a take and ipal princ school, meet the

Make the school familiar. Drive by

child will be taking the bus stops, route with liar fami me beco them the bus, help her child in your anot find to and rules before the first day. Try first week. SP the g durin dy” “bud have neighborhood so they

Learn about the bus system. If your

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the

{ Your Community Calendar } August 2014

know it all

SP = Advertisers

fri 1

Rockwall Helping Hands School Supply Drive Rockwall County Helping Hands and its Community Circle are undertaking a task to raise money and gather school supplies to help more than 1,200 students in Rockwall and Royse City schools have a successful school year. Students eligible to receive supplies come from low-income families and often from families that have suffered loss of employment or extreme medical issues. Here’s how you can help Rockwall county kids get a good start into the new school year: Make a monetary donation at www. rockwallhelpinghands.com or purchase supplies and donate them to Helping Hands for distribution to kids in need. Rockwall, 972-771-4357 www.rockwallhelpinghands.com/ai1ec_event/schoolsupply-drive-2014/?instance_id=138#sthash.0EHolDei.dpuf

Mesquite ProRodeo Series 6:30pm. Don’t miss the toughest cowboys around the world as they compete with the strongest horses, steers and bulls in the country! This PRCA-sanctioned rodeo has been thrilling visitors since 1958. You’ll see calf-roping, barrel racing, bronc busting, bull riding-all of the traditional rodeo events, in AIR-CONDITIONED comfort. Every Friday and Saturday night from May 30 through August 23. Doors open at 6:30pm. and performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite, 972-285-8777 www.mesquiterodeo.com Aladdin Jr., Presented by the Wylie Acting Group for Children 7pm. The Wylie Acting Group for Children presents Disney’s Aladdin Jr. Tickets $8 for children and $10 for adults. Wylie Acting Group for Children, 711 Business Way, Wylie, 469-298-8061

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 10:30am & 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe

of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Exhibit - Build it Garage Through Aug. 17. Construct a robot, launch a rocket, race your uniquely designed car, create with a 3-D printer and join more projects (soldering, zoetropes, air cannons and kaleidescopes) in this innovative maker’s space. Recommended age 8 and older and all children must be accompanied by an adult. Entry requires the purchase of timed entry general exhibit hall admission along with the Build It Garage materials fee: $2 for members, $4 for nonmembers. Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field Street, Dallas, 214-428-5555 www.perotmuseum.org

Exhibit - The World’s Largest Dinosaurs Through Aug. 31.This innovative, interactive exhibition includes a life-sized, ﬂeshed-out model of a 60-foot-long, 11-foot-tall female Mamenchisaurus, known for its remarkable 30-foot neck. An interactive excavation will show visitors how dinosaurs are discovered in the ﬁeld through a replicated dig site. See website for more details. Perot Museum of Nature and Science, 2201 N. Field St., Dallas, 214.428-5555 www.perotmuseum.org

sat 2 A Day at Galaxy 11am-2pm. Come and sample all the programs at Galaxy Counseling Center. Meet some of our therapists, get advice, join our anger management group, see a SUSO demonstration, check out lectures by our counselors, take a tour of our ofﬁce, while your children enjoy hot dogs, face painting and a bounce house. The event is free and open to the public. We ask that you RSVP so that we can prepare for you. Also, sign up now for free counseling sessions. (space is limited so sign up early). Galaxy Counseling Center, 1025 S. Jupiter Road, Garland, 972-2724429 www.galaxycounseling.org

Aladdin Jr., Presented by the Wylie Acting Group for Children 3pm. The Wylie Acting Group for Children presents Disney’s Aladdin Jr. Tickets $8 for children and $10 for adults. Wylie Acting Group for Children, 711 Business Way, Wylie, 469-298-8061

Devil’s Bowl Speedway Races 6pm. Gates Open at 6pm; Races Start at 8pm, Admission $12. Races are most Saturdays Mar-Sept. Check website for speciﬁc race dates/times. Devil’s Bowl Speedway, 1711 Lawson Rd., Mesquite, 972.222-2421 www.devilsbowl.com

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 11:30am, 3:30 & 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

sun 3 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 10:30am, 2:30 & 6:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95

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exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-7453000 www.ticketmaster.com

mon 4 Studio Movie Grill Children’s Summer Series See a different family-friendly movie each week of the summer for just $2 per ticket. Movies start at 11am. Check the website for a location close to you! August 4–8: Puss in Boots. Movie Studio Movie Grill, All D/FW Locations, www.studiomoviegrill.com

Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp Boys and girls ages 8-18 of all skill levels learn the game from the best camp coaching staff in Texas. Professional coaches are handpicked for their basketball knowledge and ability to work well with kids. Combining excellent coaching and a proven program focused on each camper, Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp delivers valuable lessons and plenty of fun! Find more details and register online! Hoop Camp runs Monday – Friday. 9am-4pm Cost: $240. Aug. 4-8, University of Texas at Dallas. 214-747-MAVS(6287) or hoopcamp@ dallasmavs.com www.mavs.com/community/hoop-camp

tue 5 Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of

competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

Free LEGO Mini Build Tue-5pm6:30pm Children ages 6-15 ONLY can celebrate every month with a free mini build at LEGO stores at Stonebriar Mall & Northpark Center. First Tuesdays beginning at 5pm until all the kits are gone. LEGO stores in Dallas & Frisco. www.lego.com

wed 6 The Phantom of the Opera Through Aug. 24. Watch Andrew Lloyd Webber’s musical The Phantom of the Opera, now on tour across North America. This Phantom features a new scenic design by Paul Brown, Tony Award-winning original costume design by Maria Björnson, lighting design by Tony Award-winner Paule Constable, new choreography by Scottambler, and a new staging by director Laurence Connor. This new production is suggested for audiences aged 6 and older. The show runs 2 hours and 45 minutes (including a 20-minute intermission), and includes gun shots and pyrotechnics. Parents are encouraged to consider these factors when making their decisions about attending the performance. Multiple dates/show times, check website for details and to purchase tickets. Winspear Opera House, 2403 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-880-0202 www.attpac.org/phantom

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

thu 7 Mesquite Public Library Book Club 7-8pm. Each Month the Club will read a different book and then meet to discuss it. August’s book is Gone Girl by Gillian Flynn. Mesquite Main Library, 300 W. Grubb Dr., Mesquite, 972.216-6220 www.cityofmesquite.com

Inspirational Book Group at Barnes and Noble, Firewheel Mall 7:30-8:30pm. Barnes and Noble, 190 Cedar Sage Dr., Garland, www.barnesandnoble.com

fri 8 Mesquite ProRodeo Series 6:30pm. Don’t miss the toughest cowboys around the world as they compete with the strongest horses, steers and bulls in the country! This PRCA-sanctioned rodeo has been thrilling visitors since 1958. You’ll see calf-roping, barrel racing, bronc busting, bull riding-all of the traditional rodeo events, in AIR-CONDITIONED comfort. Every Friday and Saturday night from May 30 through August 23. Doors open at 6:30pm. and performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite, 972-285-8777 www. mesquiterodeo.com

sat 9 Devil’s Bowl Speedway Races 6pm. Gates Open at 6pm; Races Start at 8pm, Admission $12. Races are most Saturdays Mar-Sept. Check website for speciﬁc race dates/times. Devil’s Bowl Speedway, 1711 Lawson Rd., Mesquite, 972.222-2421 www.devilsbowl.com

the know it all performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite, 972-285-8777 www.mesquiterodeo.com

FC Dallas Soccer 8pm FC Dallas takes on Colorado. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, 469-3650000 www.fcdallas.com

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze 11am, 3:30 & 7:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. The show features a cowboy ringmaster, basketball with the legendary King Charles Troupe from New York City and, new to Ringling Bros., the Tower Tumblers, a troupe of competitive aerial athletes from the Ukraine. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-7453000 www.ticketmaster.com

Runway Revue 12-6pm. Join us at

Troy A. Reimer, Attorney at Law Family Law Specialist

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Galleria in Dallas! THE source of fall fashion trends for the 2014 Runway Revue! Enjoy the State’s Sales Tax Holiday too (August 8-10). A full day of high-energy runway shows highlighting the top trends for fall. This free event gives everyone in the family the inside track on what to wear and how to wear it for back-to-school and the fall season. Hosted by Galleria Dallas Fashion Stylist, Holly Quartaro. Runway Revue showcases fall fashions from more than 200 retailers like H&M, Apricot Lane, Belk, BCBGeneration, and Macy’s. Three professional runway shows at noon, 2 p.m. and 4 p.m. The day closes with the high-energy Toni & Guy Hairdressing Academy’s 21st Annual Student Show at 6 p.m. 13350 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, Texas, 972-702-7100 www.galleriadallas.com

WWW.REIMERLEGALSERVICES.COM

Upload your Birthday Kids picture at www.suburbanparent.com Please submit by the 10th of the month prior to the month of their birthday to be included in our print edition. No copyrighted photos.

fun! Find more details and register online! Hoop Camp runs Monday – Friday. 9am-4pm Cost: $240. Aug. 11-15, Collin County Community College – Spring Creek Campus. 214-747-MAVS(6287) or hoopcamp@dallasmavs.com www.mavs. com/community/hoop-camp

Studio Movie Grill Children’s Summer Series See a different family-friendly movie each week of the summer for just $2 per ticket. Movies start at 11am. Check the website for a location close to you! August 11–14: Madagascar 3. Movie Studio Movie Grill, All D/FW Locations, www.studiomoviegrill.com

Texas Rangers Baseball 7:05pm. Rangers take on the Tampa Bay Rays. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

sun 10

tue 12

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey presents Built to Amaze

Texas Rangers Baseball 7:05pm.

10:30am, 2:30 & 6:30pm. See more than 110 of the world’s best performers representing 17 countries along with 95 exotic and domestic animals. Get $10 tickets on opening night only. Arrive an hour early for the All-Access Preshow to learn juggling and balancing skills from the circus clowns. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-745-3000 www.ticketmaster.com

wed 13

mon 11 Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp

972-771-5660

AUDRIANNA 3 Years Old • July 25

Boys and girls ages 8-18 of all skill levels learn the game from the best camp coaching staff in Texas. Professional coaches are handpicked for their basketball knowledge and ability to work well with kids. Combining excellent coaching and a proven program focused on each camper, Dallas Mavericks Hoop Camp delivers valuable lessons and plenty of

18 | Lakeside Parent | Don’t forget to tell our advertisers you saw them in Lakeside Parent!

Rangers take on the Tampa Bay Rays. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

MOMS Club of Rockwall Monthly Meeting 10am-12pm. MOMS Club® of Rockwall Monthly Meeting. Being a stayat-home mom doesn’t have to mean staying at home. Why not join us for speakers, crafts, playgroups, ﬁeld trips, MOMS Night Out, and more? MOMS Club® of Rockwall, TX invites you to see what we are all about. Stay-at-home moms and their kids are ﬁnding support, friendship, and fun things to do in and around Rockwall County. MOMS Club® provides an opportunity for stay-athome/work-from-home mothers to get together, learn, laugh, become involved in our community, and have fun together. We are a support group designed

Your Community Story Times Garland - Central Branch 625 Austin St., 972-205-2517 Mon - Toddler Time 10am, ages 18-36mo.; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5 Garland - North Branch 3845 North Garland Ave., 972-205-2802 Wed - Wee Read 10:30am, ages 0-17mo. Fri - Toddler Story Time 10am, ages 18-36mo; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5 Garland - South Branch 4845 Broadway Blvd., 972-205-3933 Wed - Toddler Story Time 10am, ages 18- 36mo; Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 3-5. Sat - Family Story Time 10:30am, all ages Garland - Walnut Creek 3319 Edgewood Dr., 972-205-2585 Thur - Family Story Time 7pm, all ages Sachse Public Library 3815 Sachse Rd. Bldg. C, 972-530-8966 Thur - Preschool Story Time 11am, ages 2-6 Mesquite - Main Branch 300 W. Grubb Dr., 972-216-6220 Tues - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5;

Evening Story Time 7pm, all ages. Wed - Infant Lapsit Story Time 9:30am, ages 6-12mo; Young & Restless Story Time 10:30am, 13mo -2yrs. Thur Toddler Time 10:30am, ages18mo-3yrs. Sat - Story Time 11am, ages 6-18mo Mesquite - North Branch 2600 Oates Dr., 972-681-0465 Tue - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5. Thur - Toddler Time 10:30am, ages18mo-3yrs Rockwall County Library 1215 E. Yellowjacket Ln., 972-204-7700 Mon - Toddler Story Time 10:15am, ages 2-3yrs; Preschool Story Time 11:15am, ages 3-6. Tues - Preschool Story Time 11:15am; ages 3-6. Wed - Toddler Story Time 10:15am, ages 2-3yrs; Preschool Story Time 11:15am, ages 3-6. Thu - Walkers Story Time 10:15am, ages 12-24 mo. Fri Walkers Story Time 10:15am, ages 12-24 mo. Rowlett Public Library 3900 Main St., 972-412-6161 Mon - Baby Story Time 10:30 (walking babies) & 11:30am (lapsit babies), ages 0-18mo. Wed Toddler Story Time 10:30am, ages 18mo-3yrs. Fri - Preschool Story Time 10:30am, ages 3-5

All Storytimes are FREE. Listed are the regularly scheduled storytimes. Call to conďŹ rm as schedules are subject to change.

just for you, the at-home mother of today. For more information email RockwallMOMSClub@hotmail.com Rockwall Free Methodist Church, 315 Dalton Rd, Rockwall, Rockwall, 972-772-7577 www. angelďŹ re.com/tx5/rockwallmoms

The Mystery Book Club at Barnes and Noble, Firewheel Mall 7-8pm. Love to dive into a good mystery? Join our group of mystery lovers to read new mysteries and discuss them the second Wednesday of every month. Barnes and Noble, 190 Cedar Sage Dr., Garland, www.barnesandnoble.com

1958. Youâ€™ll see calf-roping, barrel racing, bronc busting, bull riding-all of the traditional rodeo events, in AIR-CONDITIONED comfort. Every Friday and Saturday night from May 30 through August 23. Doors open at 6:30pm. and performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite, 972-285-8777 www.mesquiterodeo.com

Late Nights at the Dallas Museum of Art 6pm-12am. Free admission

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and special activities. Dallas Museum of Art, 1717 N. Harwood, Dallas, www. dallasmuseumofart.org

WEEKEND KIDSâ€™ CLASSES DURING THE SCHOOL YEAR

Texas Rangers Baseball 7:05pm.

MOMMY CLASSES IN THE EVENINGS YEAR-ROUND

Rangers take on the Tampa Bay Rays. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

Rangers take on the Los Angeles Angels. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

3046 Lavon Drive, Ste 145 â€˘ Garland, Texas 75040

thu 14

sat 16

LOTS OF KIDSâ€™ CLASSES DURING THE SUMMER

La Leche League of Garland 10-11am. Diana972-202-7644. Se Habla Espanol; Hannah 972-414-0527; Alison alisonegrady@yahoo.com. Peace Lutheran Church, 2929 S. First St, Garland, www.texaslll.org

Texas Rangers Baseball 7:05pm. Rangers take on the Tampa Bay Rays. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

fri 15 Mesquite ProRodeo Series 6:30pm. Donâ€™t miss the toughest cowboys around the world as they compete with the strongest horses, steers and bulls in the country! This PRCA-sanctioned rodeo has been thrilling visitors since

The Marketplace in Garland

972.468.9370

paintingwithatwist.com/garland facebook.com/garland.pwat

9am-2pm. Visit Historic Downtown Garland for the Marketplace every 3rd Saturday of the month from April to September. The public is invited to the Downtown Square for growers, produce, vendors and food. This is a great opportunity to support local artisans, craftsman, growers, and merchants. The Marketplace is produced by Eventive Marketing Solutions and beneďŹ ts the Good Samaritans of Garland. For additional information please contact Jim GrifďŹ n at 214-704-1967 or Kirk Lovett at 972-978-7759 or kirk@ eventivemarketingsolutions.com. Historic Downtown Garland, 214-704-1967 http:// www.garlandtx.gov/cals

Devilâ€™s Bowl Speedway Races 6pm. Gates Open at 6pm; Races Start at 8pm, Admission $12. Races are most Saturdays Mar-Sept. Check website for

To Advertise in Lakeside Parent, Call 972.887.7779 | Lakeside Parent | 19

the know it all speciﬁc race dates/times. Devil’s Bowl Speedway, 1711 Lawson Rd., Mesquite, 972.222-2421 www.devilsbowl.com

(author, career coach and volunteer) facilitates the meetings. She writes career articles and has published MORE than a Paycheck: Inspiration and Tools for Career Change. Sachse Public Library, 3815-C Sachse Rd, Sachse, 972.530-8966 www.cityofsachse.com

thu 21 Friends of the Nicholson Library Monthly Meeting 6pm. The

Rangers take on the Los Angeles Angels. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

Friends of the Library Board meets every third Thursday of the month. Anyone interested in the activities of the Friends is welcome to attend. For more information visit the Friends of the Library page call 972-205-2543.Friends of the Nicholson Memorial Library is a community organization supporting and promoting the Library. The Friends sponsors activities to raise funds for the purchase of library materials and equipment, and underwrites programming to beneﬁt all library users. Garland Central Library, 625 Austin St., Garland, 972.205-2543 www.nmls.lib.tx.us

sun 17

fri 22

Texas Rangers Baseball 2:05pm.

Family Fun Fridays in Rockwall

Rangers take on the Los Angeles Angels Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

Energize your weekend at a neighborhood park. Activities and games begin at 6pm, our feature ﬁlm will start at dusk. Candy, popcorn, snow cones and glow sticks will be available for purchase. Aug 22-Leon Tuttle Athletic Complex (1550 Airport Rd.)-The Sandlot. www.rockwall.com

sat 16 Texas Rangers Baseball 7:05pm.

Celebrate Pets 3pm. Eat a meal at the bistro and enjoy activities that celebrate pets, including a color-in bandanna craft that shows off her American Girl pet’s one-of-a-kind style. Plus, take home a special book and a set of Crayola Fabric Markers. Reservations are required. For girls ages 8 and older. American Girl Boutique and Bistro, 13464 Dallas Parkway, Dallas, 877-247-5223, www.americangirl.com

mon 18 Studio Movie Grill Children’s Summer Series See a different family-friendly movie each week of the summer for just $2 per ticket. Movies start at 11am. Check the website for a location close to you! August 18–22: Rugrats Movie. Movie Studio Movie Grill, All D/FW Locations, www.studiomoviegrill.com

tue 19 Sachse-Wylie Authors Group (SWAG) Monthly Meeting 6:308pm. Join a motivated group of both experienced and new writers meeting to share ideas and learn from other writers! If you love to write, please attend. Whether your interest is ﬁction, non-ﬁction, articles, short stories…you are invited to attend and see if you would like to participate. SWAG meets at the Sachse Public Library on the 3rd Tuesday of every month. Ruth Glover

FC Dallas Soccer 8pm. FC Dallas takes on Real Salt Lake. Toyota Stadium, 9200 World Cup Way, Frisco, 469-365-0000 www.fcdallas.com

Texas Rangers Baseball 7:05pm. Rangers take on the Kansas City Royals. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

sat 23 Mesquite ProRodeo Series 6:30pm. Don’t miss the toughest cowboys around the world as they compete with the strongest horses, steers and bulls in the country! This

PRCA-sanctioned rodeo has been thrilling visitors since 1958. You’ll see calf-roping, barrel racing, bronc busting, bull riding-all of the traditional rodeo events, in AIR-CONDITIONED comfort. Every Friday and Saturday night from May 30 through August 23. Doors open at 6:30pm. and performances begin at 7:30 p.m. Mesquite Arena, 1818 Rodeo Drive, Mesquite, 972-285-8777 www. mesquiterodeo.com

Texas Rangers Baseball 7:05pm. Rangers take on the Kansas City Royals. Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com Gala of Royal Horses 7:30pm. Watch equestrian master Rene Gasser and professionally trained horses – including Andalusian, Friesian, Lipizzaner and Arabian breeds-and ﬂamenco dancers perform stunning maneuvers in this show celebrating the European tradition of royal horses. American Airlines Center, 2500 Victory Avenue, Dallas, 800-745-3000 www.americanairlinescenter.com Devil’s Bowl Speedway Races Gates Open at 6pm; Races Start at 8pm, Admission $12. Races are most Saturdays Mar-Sept. Check website for speciﬁc race dates/times. Devil’s Bowl Speedway, 1711 Lawson Rd., Mesquite, 972.222-2421 www.devilsbowl.com

sun 24 Texas Rangers Baseball 2:05pm. Rangers take on the Kansas City Royals Globe Life Park, 1000 Ballpark Way, Arlington, www.texas.rangers.mlb.com

tue 26 Friends of the Sachse Public Library Monthly Meeting 7-8:30pm. The Friends of the Sachse Public Library is a group composed of people who believe in the importance of books, reading, learning, and libraries for people of all ages. The Friends group sponsors events and programs designed to: Add to the cultural life of the community, encourage gifts, endowments, and memorials, provide direct ﬁnancial assistance to the library. They meet on the fourth Tuesday of the month at 7pm at the Library to discuss upcoming programs and fundraisers and welcome the ideas of newcomers. Please consider supporting your library by becoming a member of The Friends of the Sachse Library. Sachse Public Library, 3815-C Sachse Rd, Sachse, 972.530-8966 www.cityofsachse.com

fun of LEGO building and experiences together in one activity- and entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests. Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Grifﬁn St, Dallas, www.legokidsfest.com. See ad in this issue.

Dallas DanceFest 8pm. Dance Council of North Texas (DCNT) is excited to announce the companies and artists selected to perform at the inaugural Dallas DanceFest (DDF) which runs August 29-31, 2014. The three-day event promises to deliver excellence, vibrancy, vitality, and diversity in dance. DDF features performances by Dallas luminaries including Texas Ballet Theater, Bruce Wood Dance Project, Dallas Black Dance Theatre in addition to established, emerging, and academic dance companies and artists. Dallas City Performance Hall, 2520 Flora Street, Dallas, 214-219-2290 www. dallasdancefest.org

sat 30 LEGO KidsFest Session 1: 9am-1:30pm; Session II: 3-7:30pm. LEGO KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of LEGO building and experiences together in one activity- and entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests. (Note: Each session offers the same exhibits and activities). Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Grifﬁn St, Dallas, www.legokidsfest.com. See ad in this issue.

sun 31 LEGO KidsFest Session 1: 9am-1:30pm; Session II: 3-730pm. LEGO KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on fun of LEGO building and experiences together in one activity- and entertainment-packed family event for children of all ages and builders of all skills and interests. (Note: Each session offers the same exhibits and activities). Dallas Convention Center, 650 S. Grifﬁn St, Dallas, www.legokidsfest.com. See ad in this issue.

Upcoming Event September 7 Planning a Quinceanera? 12-5pm. Come out to the Quince Girl Expo where you’ll ﬁnd everything you need for an amazing event! Dallas Market Hall. www.quincegirlexpos.com

fri 29 LEGO KidsFest 4-7:30pm. LEGO KidsFest brings all of the creative hands-on, minds-on

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Please note: Although we strive to bring you the most current information available regarding event dates & times, conﬁrming with the event venue before going is always a good idea. SP

Supercharged Salad! What you’ll n

eed:

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SALAD INGR EDIENTS: - 6 cups fresh baby spinach - 1 pint straw berries, hulle d and sliced - 1 avocado, di ced (or 2 avoc ados!) - 4 ounces cr umbled gorg onzola or blue - 1/4 cup slice cheese d almonds, to asted - Half a smal l red onion, th inly sliced FOR DRESSI NG, whisk to gether: - 1/2 cup avoc ado oil (or ol ive oil) - 2 Tbsp. hone y - 1 Tbsp. popp y seeds - 3 Tablespoon s apple cide err vineg ga arr - Pinc ch of of grround nd dr d y mu ussta tard r (op pttio ion na al) l) l) - Sa Salltt and pe epp p er er

U pagN e As long as there are tests, there will be prayer in schools! — Author Unknown

What you’ll do: Toss salad with whisked dressing. Serve immediately. Enjoy your superfoods!

GOTTA LOVE ‘EM

LOL with James Estes!

WHY DO MAGICIANS DO SO WELL IN SCHOOL? They’re good at trick questions

A father picked up his daughter from camp and excitedly asked her “How was your stay at camp?” She replied, “Well it would have been better if you had given me money to spend in the camp store.” Her father replied, “I put money in your camp trunk”. He continued, “Let me ask you; did you brush your teeth this week?” She replied, “Yes, I brushed my teeth!” Her dad said, “Well, I put your money in your toothbrush case hoping you would ﬁnd it when you brushed your teeth!!” Hmmm. SENT TO US FROM ANNIE KATE

WHY WAS THE TEACHER WEARING SUNGLASSES TO SCHOOL? She had bright students WHO IS THE KING OF ALL SCHOOL SUPPLIES? The ruler

To Advertise in Lakeside Parent, Call 972.887.7779 | Lakeside Parent | 21

Potluck Survivor

’ve said it before, and I’ll say it again…neighborhood potlucks are dangerous. I was scoping out the food on the potluck table during our annual summer block party in our neighbor’s backyard last weekend when my wife and teenagers walked over to me from the volleyball net. “Hungry, dad?” my son asked. “A little,” I said. “Why?” “Because you’re watching the food like a weirdo or something.” I blinked. “I’m trying to decode who brought what.” I turned to my wife. “The potato salad over there looks store bought, right?” My daughter raised her eyebrows. “And why are you doing this?” “So I know where the food came from,” I said mater of fact, and then pointed out a plate of brownies to my wife. “Honey, don’t the Miller’s have this plate pattern?” My daughter cleared her throat and repeated herself. “Uh, hello, why are you doing this?” I raised my hands in the air. “Call me cautious, but do we reallllllllllly know where this food came from…I mean, really? All of this was prepared behind closed doors, right? A lot can happen in a person’s kitchen when no one is looking. We have no idea who might have sneezed into their casserole dish or tested the batter with their ﬁngers. It’s always better to just eat those things that you can trust.” My son pointed to the macaroni salad. “Can you trust this?” “Mayonnaise?” I scoffed. “I think not.” “But macaroni salad is good,” he argued. “Sure,” I said. “And so is sleeping through the night without painful gas pains.”

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My wife rolled her eyes. “We’re going back to the volleyball game. If people ask what you are doing over here, I’m telling them you have heat stroke.” “Fine,” I said as they walked away. “But, why do people insist on getting together without the health department’s seal of approval? Huh?”” Okay, so maybe I have this thing about what I put in my mouth. Some people might call it a phobia – I prefer to think of it as a plan to keep living. When we returned home that night, however, I was famished. The only thing I ate at the potluck was an individually wrapped Twinkie and what we brought. As I assembled my dinner in the kitchen, my wife asked the obvious. “How do you know that our neighbors weren’t thinking the same thing about us, and they were concerned with what we brought?” I laughed. “We brought a bag of chips and store bought onion dip,” I answered. “And I made sure to have witnesses when I broke the seal.” My wife got that exasperated look. “It’s a summer picnic, Ken,” she exclaimed. “This is what people do. They go to barbecues and have potlucks. It’s called having fun.” “Great,” I exclaimed. “But while I am enjoying my day at work tomorrow – pain free – there’s a good chance, ‘Miss I’ll Try Everything at the Potluck,’ that your conversation with friends will involve the words ambrosia, the runs and dropping ﬁve pounds.” My wife felt my forehead. “Maybe you really do have heat stroke, Ken.” Arrive alive – that’s what I always say. SP