South Florida Family Life Magazine November 2025

ALL THAT GLITTERS

Winston and Nicole are just your normal parents of three kids. Except that he’s a Grammywinning music producer—and she’s a former supermodel. They wanted a change of pace and a community that was a good fit for their family. Nicole was unaware of Ave Maria. “But when we pulled in, I was like, ‘oh wow,’” she laughs. “I called my mom and told her we were moving. I hadn’t expected to like small-town living, but we’re able to rest and relax here. We do bike rides, the water park, and all the festivals.” Winston nods and says, “Ave Maria’s a great place and constantly getting better.”

Glam and fam go hand-in-hand in Ave Maria—A Big Kind of Small Town®.

2 Championship Golf Courses / On-site Schools Town Center / Water Park / Shopping and Dining

contents

8

SOUTH FLORIDA SPOTLIGHT

Stay updated on news and events in South Florida. This month, we highlight local ways to give back, a medieval festival, places to spot Santa, and the Miami Book Fair.

14

FAMILY MATTERS

Discover the perks of gathering around the table for a family dinner –it’s about more than just the food!

18

FAMILY FEAST

What to do when you need to feed an onslaught of out-of-town guests the night before Thanksgiving.

28

CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Discover family-friendly fun and adventures throughout sunny South Florida!

30 WORDS OF WISDOM

From onion dip to optimism – we really are “gonna make it after all.”

NOVEMBER 2025 features

Essential tips for a stress-free Thanksgiving celebration. departments

20 HEALTHY START

Questions to consider when choosing the perfect pediatrician for your little one.

24 TURKEY AND TRANQUILITY

PUBLISHER

Richard Rosser

EXECUTIVE EDITOR Susan Rosser

ASSISTANT EDITOR Shannon Pease-Severance

SENIOR ACCOUNT MANAGERS

Suzy Miguelez • Sheila Ranson

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Carrie B. Weeks

PRODUCTION COORDINATOR Zoe Rosser

PRODUCTION ASSISTANT Ken Mitchell

DIGITAL DEVELOPMENT MANAGER Pavel Mohajan

CONTACT

2436

Federal Highway, #311 Lighthouse Point, FL 33064 Phone 954-299-5592 info@southfloridafamilylife.com

YOUR PARK. YOUR WAY.

@ a Broward County Park. Honor Veterans

Tradewinds Park & Stables hosts ParkFest: Boots & Beats for our Brave on Sunday, November 9, 1-5PM. Country music, food trucks, Kid Zone, and Veterans resources all in one place! No entrance fee in applicable regional parks. Broward.org/Parks

SIPPIN FIRE IN CONCERT - PRESENTED BY MARGARITAVILLE

Thursday, November 20 • 7pm • Hollywood Beach Bandshell

TREE LIGHTING

Friday, November 21 • 5 to 10pm • ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Real snow, visit from Santa and live performance featuring On the Roxx.

CENTENNIAL CELEBRATION WITH KOOL & THE GANG

Saturday, November 22 • 5 to 11pm • ArtsPark at Young Circle in Downtown Centenarian recognition, birthday cupcakes and live performances featuring Michael Arenella & His Dreamland Orchestra, and Kool & the Gang.

Acts of Kindness

THANKSGIVING SERVES AS A REMINDER THAT HELPING OTHERS IS ALWAYS IN SEASON

There are many simple ways to give back, not just during the holidays but all year round. Here, we share ideas for you and your family to make a positive impact in your neighborhood and community.

VOLUNTEER AT AN URBAN FARM OR GARDEN. Projects like this not only help food-insecure families, but also they teach children a hands-on lesson about how things grow. Community gardening projects, such as The Fruitful Field in Deerfield Beach seek volunteers to weed, mulch, plant seeds and harvest produce. There are a variety of farm-related tasks available, some with minimum age requirements, so be sure to do a little research to find the right fit for your crew.

GIVE TO A FOOD BANK. Kids can donate essential items through a collection drive at school or off-site, or help pack boxes at a distribution center. Local organizations like Feeding South Florida, Farm Share and Harvest Drive Florida aim to feed families and fight hunger by collecting non-perishable items and other goods.

DONATE CLOTHING OR TOYS. Have your child sift through old clothes that no longer fit and donate them to Goodwill, Salvation Army, or a local charity such as The Caring Place or the South Florida Donation Center. The same can be done with toys they no longer play with.

MAKE HOLIDAY CARDS. Break out the markers, glue, glitter, or any other crafty supplies you might have on hand, and have the kiddos create handmade cards with uplifting drawings or cheerful messages. Once they’ve created a small collection, make an appointment with a local assisted living facility or nursing home to see if you can drop them off, or better yet, hand-deliver them to residents.

HELP A NEIGHBOR. There are endless ways to do this. Drop off cookies. Leave flowers on the doorstep. Wash their car. Offer to run an errand. Small gestures go a long way.

CLEAN UP THE BEACH OR A PARK. This is a great way to give back to the community and the environment. Equip yourself with gloves, a grabber tool, and a trash bag and head off in your own neighborhood, or join one of the many organized programs that seek volunteers year-round. Gumbo Limbo Nature Center in Boca Raton schedules beach cleanups for groups and organizations at all three city beaches. Broward, Miami-Dade and Palm Beach Counties also coordinate park and beach cleanup events throughout the year.

ASSIST ANIMALS. Volunteer at a local shelter, or look online at their wishlist to see what donations they are in need of. Oftentimes, shelters and veterinarians’ offices will also accept gently used towels, blankets and bed sheets to make bedding for the fur babies.

BE THANKFUL. One of the simplest ways to show gratitude and to give thanks is to let each person at the Thanksgiving dinner table take a turn to say who and what they are thankful for. Just a few kind words can go a long way.

LOOKING FOR OTHER WAYS TO VOLUNTEER?

HandsOn South Florida is a one-stop shop that matches volunteers with a wide range of non-profit organizations, programs and events ranging from ecology and science to art and literacy. For more information, visit www.handsonbroward.org or www.handsonmiami.org.

Royalty, Nobles and Knights…

Oh, My!

For three themed weekends in November, you can feel like you’ve traveled back to the days of yore at the Camelot Days Medieval Festival at T.Y. Park in Hollywood.

On November 8-9, 15-16, and 22-23, explore a kingdom full of jousting, eateries, a living chess game, musicians, dancers, interactive theater, magic, battling knights and more. While there, your family can participate in Adventure Quest, a “choose your own adventure” activity where you can select a path of righteousness, a path of glory or pursue treasure. Together, you will solve puzzles and complete challenges while on your quest.

Weekend themes include: Sirens & Swashbucklers Nov. 8-9, featuring all things pirates, mermaids and vikings; Tinkerers & Time Travelers Nov. 15-16, focusing on the age of steam to distant futures; and Myths & Magic Nov. 22-23, with ogres, fairies, knights and creatures of legend. Festival-goers are encouraged to dress the part and join the fun. There will be costume contests for those dressed in Medieval, Renaissance or pirate attire, with prizes awarded to the best adult and child costumes each day of the event. Complete rules can be found on the Camelot Days website.

And don’t forget to bring your appetite for a hearty feast of food and drink. There will also be shops with handcrafted treasures in the Artists’ Market, games, shows and entertainment for all ages along the way.

The Camelot Days Medieval Festival takes place from 10 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at T.Y. Park at 3300 N. Park Rd. in Hollywood. Admission is $25/adult, $10/ages 6-12, kids 5 and under free. The Broward County Park entrance fee of $3 per vehicle will also be in effect. For more information, visit www.camelotdays.com.

Readers Rejoice!

THE MIAMI BOOK FAIR IS BACK IN TOWN

The highly acclaimed and beloved Miami Book Fair returns from November 16-23 at the Miami-Dade College Campus and online. A literary wonderland of books, author talks, and activities, the event is a fan-favorite for all ages.

The Street Fair, scheduled for Friday-Sunday, November 21-23, includes a wide variety of authors, books, and activities for children, teens and adults. At the Children’s Alley, kids are encouraged to use their imagination and express their creativity while participating in hands-on activities, and enjoy dance, music and storytelling performances. Characters like Wembly Wordsmith and Rita Readsmuch will add to the atmosphere. New to the Children’s Alley will be the FIFA Museum Soccer Station with soccer stories from around the world. Kids can hear fascinating facts and interesting stories during storytelling sessions, create their own trophy or mascot to take home during a crafting workshop, and test out their soccer skills at the inflatable goal station.

Make sure to pick up a passport at the information booth when you arrive, so that the kids can set out on an adventure to collect stamps at different stops.

Once complete, they can bring it back to the booth to redeem it for a free book.

Street Fair hours are 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Friday, Nov. 21; 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Nov. 22; and 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, Nov. 23. Admission is free on Friday and $12/person on Saturday and Sunday. Kids 12 and under receive free admission. The Children’s Alley is located at 300 NE Second Ave., Miami.

For a complete lineup of workshops, activities and meet-and-greets for kids and adults, visit www.miamibookfair.com. Can’t make it in person to the Fair? Visit the website where you can stream hundreds of authors on demand.

Historic Holidays

Santa Tour

Here are some South Florida celebrations where you can pose for photos with Santa while making merry memories with the family throughout November and early December.

SANTA’S EXPRESS

Register on November 4

Pembroke Pines residents can register to have Santa visit your home on a fire truck during scheduled stops December 1-4 and 8-11. Registration is limited and will be available from 9am-noon on Nov. 4. $15/child. For more information, visit www.ppines.com/261/santas-express.

TREE LIGHTING CEREMONY AT TRIANGLE PARK

Friday, November 14

The evening will sparkle with more than 20,000 lights, food vendors, live entertainment and photo opportunities with Santa and Mrs. Claus, Frosty the Snowman and Rudolph the Reindeer. 6-10pm, Triangle Park, 290 Palm Ave., Hialeah, www.hialeahfl.gov

COOKIES WITH SANTA

Saturday, December 6

Enjoy a sweet treat and a five-minute family photo session inside the Historic Stranahan House. The cost is $45 for a family of four, and $5 for each additional person. By appointment only. 9am-3:30pm, Historic Stranahan House, 335 SE Sixth Ave., Fort Lauderdale, www.stranahanhouse.org/cookies-with-santa

COOKIES AND COCOA WITH SANTA

Friday, December 12

Spend some sweet time with Santa while enjoying cookies, cocoa and crafts. 6:30-8:30pm, Community Center, 9000 SW 50 Place, 954-434-4300 www.coopercityfl.org

DONUTS WITH SANTA

Saturday, December 13

Have a sweet time while enjoying freshly baked donuts and mingling with Saint Nick. Space is limited. $7/person. 9-11am, Emma Lou Olson Center, 1801 NE Sixth St., Pompano Beach, www.pompanobeachfl.gov

STORY TIME & PHOTOS WITH SANTA

Saturday, December 13

Stop by for a photo with the big guy, holiday arts and crafts and a story time with Santa’s elves. Included with paid admission of $18/adult, $10/child. Additional fee for photos. 10am-1pm, Deering Estate, 16701 SW 72 Ave., 305-235-1668 www.deeringestate.org

Responsible

Together at the Table

HOW FAMILY DINNERS CAN HELP BOOST KIDS' HEALTH AND HAPPINESS

BY TANNI HAAS, PH.D.

Most families find it difficult to get everyone together at the dinner table on a regular basis. We’re all so busy with after-school activities, late meetings at work and long commutes; it really is too bad. Researchers have learned that eating dinner as a family is extremely important to kids’ physical, mental and emotional health. As Dr. Anne Fishel, a professor at Harvard Medical School, says, “Sitting down for a nightly meal is great for the brain, the body and the spirit.”

Healthier Eating. Kids whose families have regular dinners together are much healthier than those who don’t. They eat more fruits and vegetables, and less fried foods and soft drinks. They eat a wider variety of foods, and they continue to do so once they become adults. They’re also less likely to become obese. Researchers believe that’s because homemade meals are healthier than those in restaurants, we eat smaller portions, at a slower pace, and spend more time talking with one another.

Increased Vocabulary. Dining with the family impacts kids’ minds as well as their bodies. Researchers have discovered that dinner-time conversations increase young kids’ vocabulary much more than being read to out loud. So if you have a choice

between coming home early for a family dinner or reading your kids a bedtime story, choose the dinner over the bedtime story. Kids who have a large vocabulary learn to read earlier and more easily than those with a more limited vocabulary. Researchers think that’s because kids constantly hear parents use new words during conversation.

Higher Grades. These intellectual benefits carry over into academic achievement. Researchers have discovered that how well kids do in school is determined more by how often they participate in family dinners than by whether they do their homework consistently. Kids who dine regularly with their families are twice as likely to get A’s in school as those who only do so rarely.

Fewer Risky Behaviors. Having family dinners is also good for kids’ emotional health. When they dine with their families, they’re much less likely to suffer from eating disorders, abuse alcohol or drugs, or stress and depression. Researchers believe that’s because parents who spend time with their kids at the dinner table are more in touch with their emotional well-being and can offer advice and support when needed. As a result,

these kids also have higher self-esteem and trust others more.

Stronger Family Bonds. Finally, researchers have learned what we all probably know already: eating dinner together enhances family bonds. Kids whose families have regular dinners are much more likely to have good relationships with their parents and siblings. Kids say that talking, catching up, and just spending quality family time are much more important to them than what’s on the menu. Simply put, eating dinner together creates a strong sense of togetherness and a feeling of belonging to a family. Dr. Fishel says it well: “Dinner is a time to relax, recharge, laugh, tell stories and catch up on the day’s ups and downs, while developing a sense of who we are as a family.”

Happy Dining!

Tanni Haas, Ph.D. is a Professor in the Department of Communication Arts, Sciences, and Disorders at the City University of New York – Brooklyn College.

EDITOR’S note

As someone who loves to cook and raised two kids who’ve managed to stay out of prison, I can say that while I love a good family dinner, I wouldn’t call it the magic bullet for raising well-adjusted humans. The truth is, there’s no secret sauce. We’re all just the sum of our experiences and genetics.

I remember one evening, after picking up my kids from my mother-in-law’s on the way home from work, they asked for ice cream for dinner. I was so exhausted I said yes without hesitation. We even stopped to pick up new flavors and toppings, then ate it in front of the TV. Both of them turned out just fine— and still haven’t done any time.

The Holidays LIGHT UP

LIGHT UP LAUDERDALE

Thursday, November 6 | 5:30-8:30 PM | Esplanade Park

LIGHT UP THE GALT Wednesday, November 12 | 5:30-8:30 PM North Beach Restaurants and Shoppes

LIGHT UP THE BEACH Wednesday, November 19 | 5:30-8:30 PM Las Olas Oceanside Park

LIGHT UP SISTRUNK Friday, December 5 | 5-8 PM | Sistrunk Boulevard

LIGHT UP CARTER PARK Friday, December 12 | 5-8 PM | Carter Park

MENORAH LIGHTING CELEBRATION

Sunday, December 14 | 6 PM | Las Olas Oceanside Park

KWANZAA UJAMAA

Monday, December 29 | 2-5 PM | Provident Park

parks.fortlauderdale.gov/lightup

Toasty s’mores

Hoffman’s

Nightly

$24 ages 12+, $17 ages 3-11, free ages 0-2

Thanksgiving is the Super Bowl of cooking.

If you’re anything like me, the planning kicks in on November 1, when I start making lists and emptying the fridge. Yet, one of the challenges of Thanksgiving isn’t just the grand feast; it’s the often-overlooked night before. Who feels like cooking dinner when there’s so much to prepare for the next day? When your out-of-town holiday guests expect dinner the night before the feast, don’t panic. This is where a make-ahead meal comes into play. This Tex-Mex casserole can be prepped in advance, parked in the fridge for a day or two, or even frozen weeks ahead of time. When the moment arrives, defrost it in the refrigerator for 24 hours, then bake it to perfection.

And if you’re not hosting a large gathering this holiday season, this recipe can be halved. Whip it up over the weekend, and tuck it away in the freezer for a convenient weeknight dinner.

Ingredients

FOR THE CORNBREAD

2 boxes cornbread mix (such as Jiffy), divided 2/3 cup milk

2 eggs

3 cups cheddar cheese, grated, divided

FOR THE FILLING

1 pound ground beef

1 pound chorizo, casings removed

1-2 tablespoons olive oil, as needed

2 medium yellow onions, diced

2 poblano peppers, diced

1 tablespoon chili powder

2 teaspoons ground cumin

1 teaspoon dried oregano

2 chipotle peppers in adobe, minced

3 garlic cloves, minced

2 tablespoons tomato paste

1 15-ounce can tomatoes, crushed by hand

1 teaspoon kosher salt

1/2 teaspoon freshly ground black pepper

1 15-ounce can corn (or use frozen)

1 15-ounce can pinto beans, drained and rinsed (optional)

Optional toppings: sliced scallions, chopped white or red onion, sour cream, hot sauce, avocado, fresh or pickled jalapeños, cilantro

PREPARATION

• Preheat the oven to 350 degrees. Grease a 9 x 13” baking dish and set aside.

• Prepare one box of cornbread mix according to the package directions. Spread the mixture evenly in the bottom of the prepared baking dish. Bake the cornbread until it starts to set, which should take about 10 to 15 minutes. Once done, remove it from the oven and set aside until the filling is ready

MAKE THE FILLING

• In a large skillet, sauté the ground beef and chorizo until fully cooked and no pink remains. Using a slotted spoon, remove the meat from the pan and set it aside. Drain all but 1-2 tablespoons of fat from the pan. (If needed, add a little olive oil to the pan.)

• Next, add the poblano peppers, onions, chili powder, cumin, and oregano to the pan. Sauté until soft. Then, add the garlic and sauté for an additional 30 seconds until fragrant.

• Add the chipotle peppers and tomato paste, stirring to combine. Sauté for about 2 minutes to cook the tomato paste. Then, add the tomatoes along with their juices. Return the cooked ground beef and chorizo to the skillet, and stir everything together until well mixed. Season with salt and pepper.

• Prepare the second box of cornbread and add about half of the grated cheddar.

• Spread the beef filling evenly over the bottom layer of cornbread. Sprinkle on half the cheese. Next, layer the corn and beans (if you’re using them) evenly over the cheese. Then, spread the remaining cornbread on top, making sure to distribute it as evenly as possible. Be careful not to reach the edges, as this will allow steam to escape during cooking.

• If you plan to make this dish in advance, refrigerate or freeze it at this stage. Alternatively, you can freeze it after cooking and reheat it later.

• Place the baking dish on a rimmed sheet pan to catch any spills, and bake for about 30 minutes or until the top is golden brown. Serve warm with your favorite toppings.

Note: If cooking from the fridge, allow about 15 additional minutes. This recipe is incredibly flexible. Skip the beans or corn, or double them. Or use different beans. Use ground turkey to lighten it up. Or sneak in extra vegetables, such as carrots or celery, into the meat mixture. Use your imagination. Or use your favorite chili recipe for the filling. You can even skip the bottom layer of cornbread. Anything goes!

HEALTHY

Questions to Ask When Picking a Pediatrician

BY CHERYL MAGUIRE

Being pregnant with a new baby is exciting and a little scary. Before your baby is born, you may feel overwhelmed with information and decisions you need to make regarding their care. Figuring out who will be your child’s doctor is one of the most important decisions you must make as a parent.

“Your child’s pediatrician helps nurture and guide your child into adulthood,” says pediatrician Dr. Ruby Dey. “Once you find a practice that seems right for your family, you should schedule a ‘getting to know you’ face-to-face visit.”

As the mom of three kids, I remember this process well. Before my twins were born, I met with a pediatrician and had a list of questions. Many people in my community used this doctor, and he answered all of my questions, but I didn’t particularly like his personality. “When choosing a pediatrician, it’s important to trust your instinct,” says Dr. Dey

I overlooked this “red flag,” ignoring my intuition, and I decided to use him anyway. About six months later, my kids had two different issues he didn’t address, so I switched doctors. Fortunately,

my kids are all fine and thriving, but hopefully, you won’t have to switch doctors like I did.

“If you don’t click with your pediatrician, then you should feel free to change. Don’t feel bad since it happens all the time. Most commonly for insurance reasons, but sometimes for personality reasons,” says Virginia Keane, MD.

Here are some tips to help you find a doctor who is a good fit for you and your family.

Ask for Recommendations

“Ask around at your prenatal group, any nurses you know, people at your house of worship or clubs,” says Dr. Keane. She explains that people enjoy discussing their pediatricians and will typically guide you to the right candidates for interviews.

If you are a new mom in a new community like I was, it may be difficult to find recommendations. Dr. Keane suggests asking your insurance company or checking the website for the American Academy of Pediatrics to find pediatricians by location.

continued on page 22

START

RED FLAGS

Dr. Keane says that you should be on the lookout for these possible red flags: short hours, multiple offices, hard to get through to on the phone, or loss of license, even if they got it back.

Dr. Harris also says to be wary of pediatricians who are not willing to answer your questions or if they cut you off when you speak. And, Dr. Dey says, “A pediatrician is a good fit if you can engage in open, honest conversations about your child’s health.”

Even though your baby isn’t born yet, you can join local mom groups, either online or in person. Asking these moms for recommendations on doctors is a great way to start your search. I personally reached out to people at the gym I attended and friends I worked with at the time. You can also ask your primary care physician and OB-GYN for their suggestions. Be sure to interview at least three different doctors to explore a broad range of options.

Location

Hopefully, your child will not need to visit the doctor often, but when your child is sick or hurt you don’t want to have to travel a long distance. One time my son was having trouble breathing due to pneumonia. My doctor’s office was only five minutes away, and they told me to bring him in immediately, and they gave him a cortisone shot. He was breathing better within minutes, and I was grateful the practice was close to our house.

Experience

This is a tough one because I’ve dealt with experienced doctors who were so

rigid that they misdiagnosed an issue. I’ve also seen new doctors who made mistakes due to their inexperience. But Dr. Dey says that being new to the field might not matter. “Keep in mind that if a pediatrician doesn’t have much experience, they can consult with their more experienced peers if needed,” she says.

You might not be concerned about the length of time they have been practicing, but you can ensure they are boardcertified as a pediatrician by The American Board of Pediatrics.

“Experience is helpful, but not essential. Young pediatricians enter the practice with enthusiasm and new scientific knowledge that can overcome a lack of experience, especially if there is a more senior doctor in the practice to whom they can turn to with questions,” says Dr. Keane.

Personality

The personality of a doctor is paramount when selecting a pediatrician. “Personality is a factor in choosing a pediatrician. If you don’t click, then it’s probably not going to work. This is a person a parent needs to trust with their

most precious, beloved child,” says Dr. Keane.

As a new parent, you will have tons of questions and concerns. You should feel as though you can trust your doctor to communicate with you effectively and to listen to your concerns. If you get a sense, like I did, that your personality doesn’t mesh with the doctor’s, then pay attention to that red flag and find a doctor that is a good fit. My kid’s current pediatrician is one of the best doctors I’ve ever encountered. She is patient, understanding and always listens to my concerns.

“I would suggest that parents go with their gut feeling about what their perception is of any given provider,” says Dr. Brad Harris.

Making the Decision

Now that you have gathered information you need to decide which doctor is the best to treat your child. Hopefully, you were able to interview at least three different doctors at various practices. If you felt like all the doctors answered your questions appropriately, then it comes down to the doctor that you feel would communicate well with you and listen to your concerns.

“Parents and providers need to have a good chemistry,” says Dr. Harris. If you end up having a negative experience, then remember it is easy to switch to another doctor.

“A good pediatric practice will function as a medical home, providing care that is comprehensive, patient-centered, coordinated, easy to access and committed to quality and safety,” says Dr. Keane. Dr Dey agrees, “At the end of the day, you need to love your pediatrician. If you don’t, keep looking.” The Children’s Services Council of Broward County invests in programs that give every child the chance to succeed from early learning and afterschool care to family support and mental health services

INTERVIEW QUESTIONS

Before you select a doctor, set up an interview to ask them questions so you can get a sense of their personality and values. While you are there, you should pay attention to the waiting room, office and patients. Is it clean? Are there a lot of people waiting? Here are some questions you could ask:

• Why did you decide to be a pediatrician?

• What hours do you work?

• Am I able to see you the same day for a sick visit?

• What if I need to see a specialist? How is that handled?

• What hospitals are you affiliated with?

• What if I disagree with your diagnosis? How would you respond?

• What is your philosophy about vaccines, breastfeeding, antibiotics, counseling, discipline and medications?

• What are the practice’s policies towards vaccination?

• What is the availability of sick visit appointments?

• How are the after-hours calls handled – is there an answering service or nurse call line?

• What are the cancellation and no-show policies?

Tranquility Turkey &

TIPS FOR A TROUBLE-FREE THANKSGIVING

BY SHANNON DEAN

According to several polls, Thanksgiving is the country’s second-favorite holiday, right behind Christmas. Many of us love the holiday so much that we romanticize it and then set the bar very high. Understandably, we want our kids to experience warm holiday traditions that they will pass on to their own families.

So we envision a sumptuous meal, a beautiful table and loving conversation. Unfortunately, reality may fall short of these expectations. Kids may melt down. Your covered dish may be a disaster. Disappointment may creep into the day.

Although it sometimes seems impossible to have a perfect Thanksgiving Day with children, perfection is not required for a happy, memorable holiday. Below are tips to avoid the most common pitfalls that can thwart a tranquil Thanksgiving.

USE POLITENESS TO DOWNPLAY PICKY EATING  Thanksgiving often centers on a formal meal that requires a significant amount of work. Many parents worry about

GRACE for the GROWNUPS

A gentle reminder when the pressure of “the perfect holiday” creeps in:

Thanksgiving doesn’t have to look like Instagram.

You are modeling resilience, not perfection.

Family memories come from connection, not control.

Kids will remember laughter more than spotless place settings.

A store-bought pie counts just as much as homemade.

Excusing yourself for a breather is allowed.

Choose moments of gratitude over moments of criticism.

Your child’s happiness isn’t measured by what’s on their plate.

Your presence matters more than your performance.

Don’t compare your day to someone else’s.

KID-FRIENDLY CONVERSATION STARTERS

When the turkey’s taking its time or kids start getting restless, these lighthearted questions can keep everyone smiling:

What’s the funniest thing that happened to you this year?

If you could invent a new Thanksgiving food, what would it be?

What’s something you’re thankful for that money can’t buy?

If you were a turkey, where would you hide?

If you could invite any favorite character to Thanksgiving, who would it be?

What’s your favorite Thanksgiving family tradition?

If you could swap seats with anyone at the table, who would it be and why?

What’s the silliest face you can make right now?

What’s your favorite smell of Thanksgiving?

What’s one small thing today that makes you feel happy?

continued from page 25

Try to find time to take a walk, throw a ball or play a game to blow off steam. Invite others to join you so that you can talk and bond while the kids are playing.

LOWER EXPECTATIONS

We often inform our kids about what to expect, but we don’t set our own intentions. Daisy Sutherland, author of 21 Ways to Enjoy A Stress-Free Holiday Season, says it’s very important “to remember that a great deal of the stress we feel at the holidays is of our creation.”

In truth, very few of us have a Thanksgiving like those portrayed on commercials or in magazines. But by embracing imperfection, we can still have a wonderful holiday. Focus on what you value the most and let the rest go. Roll with the unexpected and watch your enjoyment increase and your stress decrease.

DISARM DYSFUNCTION

Your kids may be on their best behavior, but other guests may have forgotten their manners. Do your best to shake off any drama. You have no control over the behavior of others, but you can control your own reaction.

Try to remember that your goal is to connect with family, so respond with kindness and deflection. Your kids are learning how to diffuse tension by watching you, so teach them to look at the big picture rather than overreacting to small annoyances. Losing your cool on a holiday that focuses on gratitude isn’t worth it.

BE PROUD OF YOUR PARENTING

A survey out of the University of Michigan found that nearly two-thirds of mothers felt criticized for their parenting, with the most concerns coming from extended family.

On a day that brings many generations together, you may receive unsolicited parenting advice. Try to remember that the concerned family member is probably trying to gain involvement in your child’s life, however awkwardly. Because you may see this person only on special occasions, be careful that your response doesn’t divide a family already separated by physical distance.

Alissa Marquess, author of Bounce Back Parenting: A Field Guide for Creating Connection, Not Perfection, suggests a quick, light response like, “Thanks, I’ll keep that in mind.” This restraint honors your love for the other person but makes it clear that you don’t intend to debate your choices. Know you are doing a great job, and change the subject to something more pleasant.

FOCUS ON FAMILY

No matter what the day brings, being with those we love can be a rare blessing. It’s not every day that everyone is together at the same table, so pause and take it in. Sure, parts of the day may bring challenges, but take a step back from all of the work and juggling to see the day for what it is – an opportunity to see the people we value the most, some of whom may not live close by. Now is the time to share, catch up and enjoy one another.

she is most grateful for and share some of your own to stress the true meaning of Thanksgiving. Your table may not look like Martha Stewart’s, and your kids may shun the cranberry sauce, but that’s perfectly fine. Perhaps we put so much pressure on Thanksgiving because we want to recreate the nostalgia we’ve carried from childhood.

The good news is that our kids will have similar special memories, and we need only to relax and let it happen. We may not remember every table setting or dish from our childhood Thanksgiving, but we remember the love and the warmth. So will our kids.

November Events

Please e-mail listing information to calendar@southfloridafamilylife.com by the 5th of the month prior to the event date. Include the name of the event, location, address, date, time, brief description, price and telephone number for the public.

BROWARD COUNTY

Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show

WEDNESDAY-SUNDAY, OCTOBER 29-NOVEMBER 2

Event touts displays of yachts and marine accessories, plus fishing clinics for kids spanning across a variety of show LOCATIONS IN FORT LAUDERDALE. www.flibs.com

Moonlight Movies in the Park

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Bring lawn chairs or a blanket to an outdoor screening of Superman (2025) on a giant, inflatable screen. This movie is rated PG-13. 7:30pm, WESTON REGIONAL PARK, 20200 Saddle Club Rd., Weston, 954-389-4321 www.westonfl.org

Be a Good Angler

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 2

Learn about fish, how to use a fishing rod. After, kids can fish from the pier. Bring your own equipment, or borrow some from a limited supply on site. 2-4pm, ANNE KOLB NATURE CENTER, 751 Sheridan St., Hollywood, 954-357-5161 www.broward.org/parks

Sunny Days and Starry Nights

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Participate in free museum exploration the first Thursday of every month. 11am-7pm, NSU ART MUSEUM FORT LAUDERDALE, One East Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.nsuartmuseum.org

Drone Show Extravaganza

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8

See a spectacular show with more than 400 drones in honor of Veteran’s Day. Live entertainment begins at 5:30pm followed by the show at 7pm. Free. FISHING FAMILY PIER, 222 N. Pompano Beach Blvd., www.pompanobeachfl.gov

Camelot Days

NOVEMBER 8-9, 15-16 & 22-23

Revisit time gone by at this medieval event featuring jousting, princesses, knights, fairies, crafters, food, games, entertainment and more. 10am-5:30pm, TY PARK, 3300 N. Park Rd., Hollywood, 786-332-0047 www.camelotdays.com

Art & Music Fest

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 8-9

Event includes a variety of art, live music, vendors, entertainment, activities for the family and more. 1-8pm, CHARLES F. DODGE CITY CENTER, 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, www.ppines.com

Family Hayride and Campfire

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 14

Enjoy old-fashioned fun with a hayride, campfire and a bag of s’mores supplies. Ages 3 and up. Pre-registration required. 6:30-8:30pm, REVEREND SAMUEL DELEVOE MEMORIAL PARK, 2520 NW Sixth St., Fort Lauderdale, www.broward.org/parks

Children’s Festival of the Arts

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Enjoy displays of art created by kids and teens, music, performances, vendors and more. Noon-4pm, YOUNG AT ART, 8000 W. Broward Blvd., Suite 1208, Plantation, 954-424-0085 www.youngatartmuseum.org

Storybook Festival

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

An event for children of all ages with storytellers, activities, arts and crafts, entertainers, performances, costume characters, fantasy forest and more. 10am-3:30pm, SOUTHWEST REGIONAL LIBRARY, 16835 Sheridan St., Pembroke Pines, www.broward.org/library

Light Up Dania Beach

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Celebrate the season with lights, entertainment and family activities. 6-9pm, CITY HALL PLAZA, 100 W. Dania Beach Blvd., Dania Beach, www.daniabeachfl.gov

Movies in the Park

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Enjoy the cooler weather while watching an outdoor screening of Sonic the Hedgehog 3. Free. 6pm, MARGATE SPORTS COMPLEX, 1695 Banks Rd., Margate, www.margatefl.com

Beats and Bites

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 20

Music meets flavor at this event for all ages with live music and a variety of food trucks. 7-9pm, THE CHARLES F. DODGE CITY CENTER, 601 City Center Way, Pembroke Pines, 954-392-2116 www.ppines.com

Holiday Fantasy of Lights

NOVEMBER 22-JANUARY 3

Get in the holiday spirit while driving through this holiday display of lights. Fee applies. TRADEWINDS PARK, 3600 Sample Rd., Coconut Creek, www.holidaylightsdrivethru.com

Winter Wonderland

NOVEMBER 22-DECEMBER 30

Immerse yourself in the season with holiday attractions and experiences for all ages, featuring all-new lights and themed displays, a 35-foot Christmas tree, Santa’s village and much more. $24/ages 12 and up; $17/ages 3-11; free/ages 0-2. 5:30-9pm, FLAMINGO GARDENS, 3750 S. Flamingo Rd., Davie, www.flamingogardens.org/winter-wonderland

Holiday Craft Show & Green Fair

SATURDAY-SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 22-23

The town of Davie hosts a local event with handmade arts, crafts and plants. 9am-4pm, BERGERON RODEO GROUNDS, 4201 Rodeo Way, Davie, 954-797-1181 www.davie-fl.gov

Family Fun Day

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 23

Celebrate the upcoming winter season with free activities and fun. 10am-3pm, ESPLANADE PARK, 400 SW Second St., Fort Lauderdale, www.winterfestparade.com

Tamarac Turkey Trot

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27

Put your running shoes on and get moving on Thanksgiving morning at the Annual Turkey Trot 5K Run. Runners receive a finisher medal. 7:30am, TAMARAC CITY HALL, 7525 NW 88 Ave., Tamarac, www.runsignup.com

Turkey Trot

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27

Shed some calories before the big meal at this 5K walk/run. 7:30am, LAS OLAS OCEANSIDE PARK, 3000 E. Las Olas Blvd., Fort Lauderdale, www.turkeytrotftl.com

MIAMI-DADE COUNTY

Day of the Dead Celebration

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

Enjoy a night market, face painting, stilt walkers, mariachi bands, festive decorations, live entertainment and more. 6-9pm, CITYPLACE DORAL, 8300 NW 36 St., Doral, www.cityplacedoral.com

Kids’ Drawing Class

SUNDAYS, NOVEMBER 2, 9, 16, 23 & 30

Aspiring artists ages 13 and under can learn techniques for bubble letters and characters from a local artist. Free with paid admission. 10-11am, MUSEUM OF GRAFFITI, 299 NW 25 St., Miami, www.museumofgraffiti.com

Color Your Cares Away

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 3

Bring the family for a soothing activity of coloring a page or two. Materials provided. All ages. 9:30am-6pm, KENDALE LAKES BRANCH LIBRARY, 15205 SW 88 St., Miami, www.mdpls.org

Family Day on Aragon

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Enjoy a day of family fun activities, arts and crafts, live performances and more every second Saturday of the month. 10am-5pm, CORAL GABLES MUSEUM, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, www.coralgablesmuseum.org

Harvest Pumpkin Craft

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 8

Celebrate the season by painting festive pumpkins in bright fall colors. Materials provided. Registration required. Ages 6-12. 11am-noon, PALMETTO BAY BRANCH LIBRARY, 17641 Old Cutler Rd., Palmetto Bay, www.mdpls.org

Night Hike & Campfire

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 12

Explore the woods and wildlife at night on this guided hike. After, enjoy s’mores around the campfire. $25. 7-9:30pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Palmetto Bay, www.deeringestate.org

Ripley’s Believe it or Not!

Christmas Park

NOVEMBER 13 - JANUARY 4

A magical, family-friendly holiday amusement park that combines rides, live shows, and jaw-dropping attractions. 5pm-midnight,

AMELIA EARHART PARK, 401 E. 65 St., Hialeah, www.ripleyschristmaspark.com

WALLCAST Concert: Dvořák’s

New World Symphony

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15

Experience this performance on a soaring 7,000 square-foot projection wall. 7:30pm, NEW WORLD CENTER, 500 17 St., Miami Beach, www.nws.edu

Gables Bike Tour

SUNDAY, NOVEMBER 16

Bring your bicycle and take a guided ride while learning about historic homes in the area. The excursion begins at the museum and the cost includes museum admission.

$10/person. 10am-noon, CORAL GABLES MUSEUM, 285 Aragon Ave., Coral Gables, 305-603-8067 www.coralgablesmuseum.org

Miami Book Fair

NOVEMBER 16-23

A hybrid event in downtown Miami and online with scheduled author presentations, workshops and activities. The weekend Street Fair takes place November 21-23. MIAMI DADE COLLEGE 300 NE Second Ave., Miami, www.miamibookfair.com

Little Lizards: Art Naturally

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 19

Kids can tap into their creative side while participating in art activities and learning all about the color wheel. 2-3pm, PINECREST GARDENS, 11000 Red Rd., Pinecrest, 305-669-6990 www.pinecrestgardens.org

Popcorn Pals: Fun Family Films

FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 21

Bring the family for a fun film at the library. 3:30-5:30pm, Coral Gables Branch Library, 3443 Segovia St., Coral Gables, www.mdpls.org

Holiday Tree Lighting

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22

Kick off the season with musicians from the Miami Beach Classical Music Festival and a holiday tree lighting ceremony. Two performances, 7pm & 8:30pm, LINCOLN ROAD SHOPPING DISTRICT Euclid Avenue and Lincoln Road, Miami

Turkey Trot Miami

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 27

Get active before the big meal at this Thanksgiving Day race that includes a 5K,

Sensory Saturday

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 1

The venue opens an hour early for special exploration for families navigating autism spectrum disorder, sensory processing or cognitive differences. 9-10am, COX SCIENCE CENTER AND AQUARIUM, 4801 Dreher Trail North, West Palm Beach, www.coxsciencecenter.org

American Indigenous Arts Celebration

FRIDAY-SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 7-8

Join the Seminole Tribe of Florida and the Ah-Tah-Thi-Ki Museum for two days of Seminole and Indigenous art, music, food, dance and more. 10am-5pm, AH-TAH-THI-KI MUSEUM,

34725 W. Boundary Rd., Big Cypress Seminole Indian Reservation, www.ahtahthiki.com

Eyes to the Skies

MONDAY, NOVEMBER 10

Peer through professional-grade telescopes to set your sights on the night sky. Recommended for ages 8 and up. 7pm, CHILDREN’S SCIENCE

EXPLORIUM AT SUGAR SAND PARK, 300 S. Military Trail, Boca Raton

Zoo Lights

NOVEMBER 21-JANUARY 4

See countless lights and seasonal displays light up the night at this holiday extravaganza. 5:309pm, PALM BEACH ZOO, 1301 Summit Blvd., West Palm Beach, www.palmbeachzoo.org

Delray Beach Turkey Trot

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22

Take a scenic 5K run along the Atlantic Ocean.

Every effort has been made to provide accurate information. Changes and cancellations do occur. Please double check the details before setting out on your adventure.

10K and Kids Trot. 7am, TROPICAL PARK, 7900 SW 40 St., Miami, www.turkeytrotmiami.com

Historic Holidays

NOVEMBER 28-JANUARY 6

Step back in time and experience the magic of the season while exploring the nostalgic charm of the historic house decorated for the holidays. $10-$18. 10am-4pm, DEERING ESTATE, 16701 SW 72 Ave., Palmetto Bay, www.deeringestate.org

Disney’s Moana Live-to-Film Concert

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

This unique event features a full-length screening of the beloved animated film, accompanied by a live ensemble of top Hollywood studio musicians, Polynesian rhythm masters and vocalists celebrating the awardwinning music and songs from the Walt Disney Animation Studios classic. 6::30pm, ADRIENNE ARSHT CENTER FOR THE PERFORMING ARTS, 1300 Biscayne Blvd., Miami, www.arshtcenter.org

LEGO Fun

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 29

Kids can explore their creative side and build creative structures during open LEGO play at the library. Ages 5-12. 1-5pm, MIAMI MAIN LIBRARY, 101 W. Flagler St., Miami, 305-375-2665 www.mdpls.org

Vizcaya Village Farmers Market

SUNDAYS

Visit the historic farm and village as vendors sell homemade food and hand-crafted goods. 9:30am-3:30pm, VIZCAYA VILLAGE, 3250 S. Miami Ave., Miami, www.vizcaya.org

SCAN TO UNLOCK YOUR EXCLUSIVE

GUIDE

AND HAVE IT DELIVERED DIRECTLY TO YOUR INBOX

7:30am, ANCHOR PARK, 340 S. Ocean Blvd., Delray Beach, www.downtowndelraybeach.com

Holiday Tree Lighting

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 22

Kick off the holiday season with a tree lighting ceremony, live music, snow flurries, crafts, costumed characters, food vendors and more. Activities begin at 6pm, tree lighting at 7:15pm and music performances begin at 7:30. MIZNER PARK AMPHITHEATER, 590 Plaza Real, Boca Raton

Mother Nature & Me

THURSDAYS

Little ones learn all about nature through crafts, garden exploration and story time. Ages 5 and under with caregiver. $10/child. 10am-noon, DELRAY BEACH CHILDREN’S GARDEN, 137 SW Second Ave., Delray Beach, www.delraybeachchildrensgarden.org

The Toss That Still Inspires

WE’RE GONNA MAKE IT AFTER ALL

BY SUSAN ROSSER

Every now and then, I stumble across a clip from The Mary Tyler Moore Show, and suddenly I’m transported back to my childhood Saturday nights – potato chips and onion dip in hand – watching the fictional Mary Richards toss her beret into the Minneapolis sky. Even decades later, that moment radiates pure optimism.

The humor of the show still holds up, but what resonates even more now is the message behind the laughs. Mary Richards was funny, yes – but she was also independent, resilient, and quietly revolutionary.

What stayed with me most wasn’t just the comedy, but the message. Mary Richards showed women they could stand on their own two feet. My mother was raising three daughters at the time, and she made sure we knew the same thing: build a career, rely on yourself, and never let someone tell you your work matters less because you’re a woman.

One of my favorite episodes is when Mary discovers her predecessor at the newsroom earned $50 more a week just because he was a man. She calls it out, directly and unapologetically. That scene was played for laughs, but it was also a bold, necessary reminder of the world women were navigating.

As a working mom who came of age in the ’80s, I know how much ground had already been gained thanks to trailblazers before me.

But I also know how easy it can be to take those gains for granted when I’m juggling kids, clients and dinner plans. Watching Mary Richards all these years later reminds me that progress didn’t just “happen.” It was fought for, modeled and broadcast into living rooms across America.

And here’s the beautiful part: today’s kids can still stumble across Mary Richards. Through reruns, streaming or even just clips floating around online, they can see a character who was strong, funny, flawed and determined to make her way. They may have superheroes and influencers as role models now, but there’s something valuable in showing them ours too – the folks who used humor, persistence and grit to make change.

I may have traded onion dip for sauvignon blanc and brie, but every time I see that opening sequence of Mary tossing her beret in the air, I get the same surge of optimism I felt decades ago. And a little bit of innocent optimism is always welcome. The theme song says it best: You’re gonna make it after all.

Susan Rosser is the editor of of South Florida Family Life and while she has never tossed a beret into the air, she will take a dose of optimism wherever she can find it.

Trusted Pediatric Experts. Now in Davie. Nicklaus Children’s is a trusted leader in pediatric care, serving families across South Florida and beyond. With eight locations in Broward County, we’re making world-class care more accessible than ever. Now in Davie, our newest location connects families to pediatric specialists in cardiology, gastroenterology, neurology, orthopedics, plastic surgery, and spine & scoliosis all delivered with the same exceptional care you expect from Nicklaus Children’s.