Sibling Rivalry!

     The definition of  the nuclear "FAMILY" has certainly changed over the years. Family used to be thought of as a mom, a dad, and their biological children. These days families are more diverse and inclusive than ever-- often made up of two moms, or two dads, biological, adoptive and foster children.

     But some things never change and sibling rivalry is one of them. Brothers and sisters will inevitably find something to disagree about and when there's a mix of adoptive and biological kids it can become even more tense. So to keep the rivalry from getting too rough, remember  a few good rules:

- It's your job to set the tone. If you already have biological children prepare them for the addition of their new sibling(s).
- Many adoptive parents with biological children are proponents of respecting the birth order. While this is indeed a personal decision some families say bringing an adopted or foster child in who is older than the biological children can be disruptive.
- Remember, no two kids are the same but the rules around the house should be the same for everyone.
- Be honest with your children about their origins but let them know they are family and they hold a very special place in their new forever nuclear FAMILY now.


   

Hurricane Season is Still Here-- So Be Prepared!

    With Hurricane Joaquin barreling down on the Bahamas and heading towards the U.S. Eastern Seaboard it's a good time to remind everyone that we still have another two months of hurricane season to withstand.  Even though it's more than likely Joaquin will miss us and head back out to sea-- we should always be ready.

     Here are some basic tips to being prepared for a hurricane:

     -Have a hurricane plan made up ahead of time that includes knowing your particular evacuation route. Pet owners take your pets with you. If you are in a flood zone have sandbags to protect your property. If you don't have storm shutters have materials on hand to board up your windows. 
     -Stockpile vital supplies including: (Pre-storm) water (1 gallon a day for each family member for at least three days), non-perishable foods, manual can opener, flashlights and batteries, and a battery operated radio or TV. (Post-storm) heavy bottom pots/pans and a grill (only use out of doors) as long as the gas and electric are out.
     -Be sure to have emergency numbers in your fully charged cell-phone and back up all your computer files and photos.

      For more on Hurricane Preparedness go to http://www.orlandosentinel.com/weather/hurricane/hurricane-guide/

   

Food For Thought...

     Here are some alarming statistics about hunger in America as of last year:

-15.5 or 21 percent of children in the United States live in poverty.

-15.3 Million children under 18 live in food- insecure homes.  That means homes where kids are not able to consistently have nutritious food needed to maintain a healthy life.

-A lack of nutritious food in childhood can have lasting harmful effects.

-Stats from 2012/2013 indicate that in Central Florida alone, some 10,000 children were homeless for an extended period of time, while more than 200,000 children in Orange County, Florida count on a school lunch program for meals that often exclude meals on the weekend and during some school breaks.

   It's Hunger Action Month.  Take action!

Happy Grandparents Day!

National Grandparents Day!

    This Sunday is National Grandparents Day. Marian McQuade is credited with founding the day back in 1970, but it was President Jimmy Carter who signed National Grandparents Day into law in 1978 and the first Sunday in September, after Labor Day, has been designated as National Grandparents Day ever since.  While not a federal national holiday, it is a day to be observed in honor of grandparents across the country.

    Our grandparents play many roles in our lives and the lives of our children, and make meaningful contributions to families and society as a whole. So whether your grandparents are blood relatives, adopted or foster family-- this Sunday do something special for the grandparents in your life while remembering all the great "Grands" that were once with us as well.

    For more on National Grandparents Day go to https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/National_Grandparents_Day

    Looking for great gift ideas for the grandparents? Check out http://www.aplaceformom.com/blog/9-3-15-gift-ideas-for-grandparents-day/

    There are many Grandparents Day celebrations in Central Florida including http://www.visitcentralflorida.org/m/events/national-grandparents-day
and http://blog.feedhopenow.org/event/grandparents-day/   

Donate During Hunger Action Month!

    Hunger in America and right here in Central Florida is a devastating reality, but we can all play a part in alleviating it.  In addition to trying our very best not to waste food, take action and donate whatever you can. Every little bit helps. You can also initiate a food drive, and the best way to do that is in conjunction with your local food bank.

    Just remember to collect only non-perishable items and never collect homemade items because you want to be one hundred percent sure that they are safe. Stay away from glass because it can break. Many food bank networks accept canned goods, fresh produce and dairy and juice with expiration dates.

    Feeding America is a great source of information: http://www.feedingamerica.org/ways-to-give/give-food/food-drives/

    Here in Central Florida contact Second Harvest Food bank: http://www.foodbankcentralflorida.org/site/PageServer#.VemGH0anxuk

    There are also food pantries that appreciate support: http://www.foodpantries.org/ci/fl-orlando

Hunger Action Month!

    September is just around the corner and I want to take this opportunity to remind you that the coming month is "Hunger Action Month" and September third is "Hunger Action Day". Started by "Feeding America" in 2008, "Hunger Action Month" is not only an awareness campaign to remind everyone that hunger does indeed exist in the U.S.-- and right here in Central Florida-- but it's also a call to action for everyone to get involved in our community to do whatever possible to eliminate hunger here.

    One of the easiest and quickest ways to help eliminate hunger is to stop wasting food. Did you know Americans waste 40% of the food we produce. That's an astounding number so here are some tips on how you and your family can start to put the brakes on food waste:
-Pay attention to expiration dates but realize the "sell by" date is for stores and is different from the expiration date.
-Buy imperfect produce-- just because some fruits and vegetables are a little bruised doesn't mean they're bad or bad tasting.
-Learn and practice efficient ways to freeze and store foods so that they last longer.

    You can get involved in the fight to end hunger right here in Central Florida through several organizations including Second Harvest Food Bank and Catholic Charities.

    For more tips on how to prevent food waste, check out these sites:
http://www.nrdc.org/food/wasted-food.asp
http://www.foodrecoverynetwork.org/#about
http://www.feedingamerica.org/


 

   

To Volunteer is to Care!

     One very easy way to teach your children about giving, sharing and selflessness is to encourage them to volunteer. While the rewards may not be financial-- the benefits can last a lifetime. Start out by setting a good example and volunteer yourself-- but your toddlers, teenagers, and young adults can all get in on the action too. Whether it's visiting the sick or elderly, taking part in a community clean-up or just helping out at school or church-- there's something for everyone.

    Our state, and Central Florida in particular, have amazing volunteer programs-- kids included. In fact, there's even a website designed to match your children with a volunteer program that's perfect.

    Check out these sites:

    http://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/teaching-tolerance/childrens-volunteering-resource-guide/
    http://www.volunteermatch.org/search/?l=FL&v=false&categories=22
    http://www.handsonbroward.org/

Should Your Kids Ride the Social Media Merry-go-round?

    Let's face it-- social media networking sites play a huge role in how we communicate today.  Our kids are so tech-savvy that it only makes sense that they want in on the internet action too.  In fact, 60% of kids aged 13 to 17 have at least one profile on-line and spend about two hours a day on social media, while 59% of kids are social networking by age 10.

    The minimum age required by many sites is 13 but there are no procedures in place to verify age and there's growing concern that more and more children, some as young as 5, are creating accounts-- and while there are specific sites designed for younger children the concern is that young kids are getting on sites meant for adults.  Why worry? Well because as much as social media can foster your children's self-expression through sharing photos, art, and opinions and keep them connected to friends-- there are also many dangers involved with communicating on-line. Cyber bullying is a major concern-- but your kids can also make themselves vulnerable to adult predators, spend too much time away from physical activity and shy away from developing in-person, personal relationships.

   So what's the bottom line? Rules! You know your children so you should determine the age they are allowed to join a social media network-- and just like you teach your children not to talk to or open the door for strangers and give them curfews and watch who their friends are-- you should also monitor their on-line interactions and limit computer time.

    For helpful tips on teaching your kids safe, on-line etiquette check out these sites:
http://www.aacap.org/AACAP/Families_and_Youth/Facts_for_Families/Facts_for_Families_Pages/Children_Online_59.aspx
http://www.webmd.com/parenting/features/social-media-and-tweens-teens
http://www.nytimes.com/2015/02/19/style/letting-your-kids-play-in-the-social-media-sandbox.html?_r=0

   

Rebirth of Independence!

    With the recent Supreme Court decisions on gay marriage and the removal of the Confederate flag from state institutions as well as the preservation of the Affordable Care Act-- our nation is experiencing a renaissance of a government for, by and of the people.

    As we celebrate this Fourth of July let us be thankful for the checks and balances our government provides that allow us to continue to pursue life, liberty and happiness.

    But also remember to take personal time for you and your family. Use the Fourth of July to kick-off the last half of 2015. Recommit to be better mothers and fathers, brothers and sisters, neighbors and friends. Be a better you!!!

   Happy Independence day!

Dad's Big Day!

    In this country, the third Sunday of every June is the day we dedicate to celebrating our fathers and the father figures in our lives. Like Mother's Day, it's hard to pinpoint exactly when the very first Father's Day was celebrated. The belief is that a memorial was held in 1908 to commemorate a 1907 mining accident that claimed the lives of a large group of men, many of them fathers, in West Virginia. Then the nation's first statewide Father's Day was celebrated in 1910, in the State of Washington, and the holiday spread from there. It wasn't until 1972 that Father's Day became a National Holiday.

    Regardless of it's origins, Father's Day is a day we set apart to celebrate the contributions dads make to their families and society as a whole.  Whether you celebrate with a church service, cookout, or sporting event, whether you give dad a gift for grilling or an electronic gadget, just get out there and spend some quality time with the man who makes a difference to you.  Be sure to let your father, adopted father, step-father, father-in-law, grandfather or that all-around good guy in your life-- know that he is loved and cherished.

     Happy Father's Day!!!

   

Sunscreen: Don't Leave Home Without It!

    If you're like me, there's almost nothing better than getting out and enjoying all that life in the great outdoors has to offer-- but be sure you protect your family's fun in the sun by making sure everyone always wears sunscreen.

    Harmful ultraviolet rays can not only cause painful sunburn, but too much exposure to the sun can lead to skin cancer.  Sunscreen helps protect you and your kids from both, while also keeping skin from discoloring, wrinkling and all-around premature aging. And don't forget, sun damage is cumulative and skin cancer can result from repeated exposure to the sun from the time we're young-- so teach your kids to start applying and reapplying sunscreen every time they go outdoors. And the earlier they start, the better-- many experts say you should start applying sunscreen to a baby at six months-- before that make sure your baby wears protective clothes, a hat and sunglasses.  As the kids get older and can put on sunscreen themselves it should become a habit, like brushing their hair or washing their hands.  An SPF (Sun Protection Factor) of 15 or greater is recommended-- but the higher the number the better the protection, so choose wisely.  It's better to play it safe than be sorry, so slather on that sunscreen and get out there and enjoy!

    For more information on sunscreen check out these links:
http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/prevention-guidelines/year-round-sun-protection
http://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/healthy_living/hic_An_Overview_ofYour_Skin/hic_protecting_yourself_from_sun_damage
http://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/infant-and-toddler-health/expert-answers/baby-sunscreen/faq-20058159
http://www.skincancer.org/prevention/sun-protection/prevention-guidelines/preventing-skin-cancer

Summer Break Doesn't Mean Breaking Ties

    With the last day of school fast approaching, I wanted to remind you that just because your kids are on break doesn't mean the wonderful social relations they've established over the school year need to stop.

    Here are some easy ways to make sure your children stay in touch with their friends. Even though the younger set is tech-savvy, not everyone has their own phone so why not help your youngsters and their friends put together hand written phone books with numbers where they can easily be reached. It's a great project for the last few days of school and the end result is shared phone numbers to stay in touch.

    Other ways to maintain strong friendship bonds over the break include scheduling Summer play dates before school ends, as well as being sure to invite your kid's friends to birthdays, barbecues and other events that happen while school is out.

    For older children, staying in touch can be all about phone calls, group messaging, Skype and basically anything involving social media. Just don't let them forget that nothing beats face to face interaction so be sure to encourage in-person gatherings to keep relationships going.

    For more tips on staying in touch check out these ideas:

https://www.pinterest.com/pin/248049891946740022/
http://redtri.com/fun-ideas-for-keeping-in-touch-this-summer/

Happy Memorial Day!!

    As you fire up the grill or get ready for a family outing this Memorial Day weekend, take a moment to remember the real reason we celebrate this occasion. It's true that in most of the country (Florida and warm states are the exceptions) we've come to equate Memorial Day with the start of "swimming pool" season in anticipation of Summer. But Memorial Day used to be called "Decoration Day" and was created to honor the men and women who died in service to our country.

    While decorating soldiers graves with flowers is an ancient custom, our memorial day was born out of our Civil War and while many states claim to have been the first to honor their heroes, the call for Memorial Day to be commemorated annually and nationwide came on May 5, 1868 from General John Logan commander-in-chief of the Grand Army of The Republic, a veterans' organization for Union Civil War veterans. Logan declared: “The 30th of May, 1868, is designated for the purpose of strewing with flowers, or otherwise decorating the graves of comrades who died in defense of their country..." the date is said to have been chosen because it did not the commemorate any particular battle.

    Memorial Day moved from May 30th to the last Monday in May with Congressional passage of the National Holiday Act of 1971.

    Happy Memorial Day!

Pursuit of Happiness!

    As Bruce Jenner continues to reveal more of the transgender journey that will allow an outward expression of the inner woman: "For all intents and purposes, I am a woman" (Bruce Jenner April. 2015) -- it's important to remember that regardless of Bruce's gender, Bruce is a fantastic parent and a shining example for anyone and everyone who wants to pursue their personal happiness-- happiness which often means being a parent.

     Bruce has 10 children in all, having a blended family that includes six kids from three marriages as well as being a parent to his four step-children that former wife Kris had with Robert Kardashian.  All of the children support Bruce's decision and confirm what a loving and caring parent Bruce has always been and will continue to be.

      It is my hope that Bruce, now perhaps the most famous face of the transgender community, will serve as a symbol to all parents to build a loving, supportive family just as Bruce has done. He is an inspiration to all parents and a role model to everyone pursuing their inner happiness. Pursue YOUR happiness.

http://www.archives.gov/exhibits/charters/declaration_transcript.
http://www.newsweek.com/coming-out-trans-29-best-quotes-bruce-jenners-diane-sawyer-interview-325300

Happy Mother's Day!

   

Hope: A Memoir of Survival in Cleveland

    With the second anniversary of the heroic escape by three women held captive in Cleveland--the recent publishing of a memoir by two of the women, and Mother's Day just days away-- I felt it fitting to celebrate their stunning story of bravery against all odds.

    You know the names: Amanda Berry, Gina DeJesus and Michelle Knight. You know their story: kidnapped, held captive, emotionally battered and sexually tortured by Ariel Castro for a decade, until they escaped along with Berry's daughter on May 6th, 2013. But beyond what these women suffered, a real mark of their amazing strength and spirit is how they were able to raise Amanda Berry's daughter Jocelyn, (fathered by Castro) now eight years old, and give her as much of a normal life as possible, despite what they endured. It's true that Jocelyn's birth gave Berry strength, and the women formed a bond, a family of their own to protect Jocelyn. But the courage they showed in the face of such adversity is beyond remarkable.

    It is my hope that this story will serve as a reminder to mothers and fathers everywhere about the importance of parenthood -- so that so-called normal families who will never face the traumas Amanda, Gina, Michelle and little Jocelyn faced-- will be sure to love and protect their kids at all cost.

The Memoir of Amanda Berry and Gina DeJesus is entitled:
 Hope: A Memoir of Survival in Cleveland

Michelle Knight's Memoir is entitled:
Finding Me: A Decade of Darkness, a Life Reclaimed: A Memoir of the Cleveland Kidnappings

Mother's Day: Just Days Away...

    Mothers come in all shapes, sizes and colors. Some are biological some adoptive-- but all are incredibly special-- and while societies have been honoring mothers for centuries, the roots of today's American "Mother's Day" date back to the 1800's with celebratory days known as "Mother's Friendship Day" and "Mother's Peace Day". "Mother's Day" as we know it didn't become an official U.S. Holiday until 1914.

    Celebrated the second Sunday in May-- this year May 10th -- Mother's Day pays homage to mothers for their love and sacrifice, as well as the contributions they make not only to their families but to society as a whole. Traditionally we celebrate by giving Mother's Day cards and flowers, and taking mom for a wonderful meal that she doesn't have to cook herself.  You still have plenty of time to plan something amazing for your mom, but regardless of how you celebrate be sure you let the lady you call "Mother" know just how much she's loved--  and that goes for grandma too!

 

Sound The Alarm!

    Stay safe this Spring and Summer with functional smoke alarms strategically placed throughout your home. Operational detectors should be on each and every level of your home and especially located both right outside and in all the bedrooms. Be sure to change the batteries once a year. It's also especially smart to interconnect your alarms so that when one sounds they all sound. This can give you a head start to safety if the fire is still a distance away from where you are in the house. Be sure you and your family have an escape plan and practice it. New smoke detectors also come combined with carbon monoxide detection. If you don't have a combined smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector, make sure you also install carbon monoxide detectors throughout your home.

For more information, check out these sites:
http://www.nfpa.org/safety-information/for-consumers/fire-and-safety-equipment/smoke-alarms
http://www.fgcu.edu/EHS/Files/What_you_should_know_about_SMOKE_ALARMS.pdf
http://publicsafety.tufts.edu/firesafety/fire-alarm-evacuation-tips/
http://www.cpsc.gov/en/Safety-Education/Safety-Education-Centers/Carbon-Monoxide-Information-Center/Carbon-Monoxide-Questions-and-Answers-/

Why Family Vacations Are Important!

   Whether you take a fantastic trip or stay at home and plan nearby outings everyday-- scheduling time for a family vacation or staycation is important.
    Vacations create quality time when you put away work and concentrate on the people you love. You relax, and because you get the chance to explore new places and see and do new things you may have never done before, you're also learning without all the stress and pressure that often accompanies more formal educational situations.
    More than that, vacation time lets your children know they are loved and supported. Breaking away from a normal routine can foster a sense of adventure and the togetherness creates bonds that daily rituals can often block. 
    But perhaps the best part of family vacations are the lasting memories you can keep and share your whole life long.

For some staycation ideas right here in the Orlando area and Central Florida go to: http://www.orlandoweekly.com/orlando/central-florida-staycations/Content?oid=2242876
http://educationpossible.com/family-staycation-central-florida-without-theme-parks/

For other vacation ideas try these websites:
http://travel.usnews.com/Rankings/Best_Family_Vacations_in_the_USA/
http://www.parenting.com/gallery/51-mini-family-vacations
http://www.tripadvisor.com/Inspiration-g1-c0-World.html

Summer Reading Fun!!

   Summer vacation signals a time for rest and relaxation, but make sure reading is still on your kids' "to do" lists over the break. That's because reading is not only fundamental-- it's fun. Encouraging your kids to read opens their imaginations and keeps them learning all through their "off" time. Take a stay-cation to your local library to get a hands-on experience with books. With our tech-savvy kids it's also a good idea to download electronic books on their tablets for easy reading on the go.

For more information on making reading  part of your child's Summer fun go to:  http://readingfoundation.org/
http://www.scholastic.com/readingreport/

Selling The House Due To Divorce...

   Whether you have to or want to sell your house because of a pending divorce--  being prepared will get you the best price.  Some basics to know:
-Experts agree Spring and Summer are the best seasons to sell. Good weather brings out the buyers.
-Remember you have to pay off the mortgage, any lines of credit and brokers and closing fees as well as any capital gains taxes that apply-- before you make any profit to split. Despite these expenses don't over price.
-Hire an agent both parties trust. The agent can do the pricing and act as intermediary to avoid conflicts.
-Your house no doubt holds many pleasant memories but to be able to sell you have to look forward not back, or you may never be able to part with it.
-Have all pertinent information such as property taxes, home owner association fees, special features, new repairs, and neighborhood and area attributes at you finger tips to entice prospective buyers.
-Finally, keep personal affects to a minimum (i.e. family photos) then keep the house clean, uncluttered and inviting.

For more information about selling a house when divorcing try these helpful websites: http://divorceinfo.com/sellingyourhouse.htm
http://www.divorcenet.com/resources/divorce/marital-property-division/selling-house-when-you-divorce
http://www.divorce360.com/divorce-articles/debt-and-credit/mortgage/need-to-sell-your-house-in-divorce.aspx?artid=899

Pick a Perfect Summer Camp!

   It won't be too long before the kids are out of school-- and that constant "Mom I'm bored" moan drones on. Win that war before the first battle even begins! There are some super "Summer Camps" in Central Florida that offer everything from arts and crafts to fun and games and all kinds of sports -- even figure skating. Or how about Space Camp at the Kennedy Space Center? Aside from all the sun and fun, your kids learn socializing skills, and there's even a camp to help our four legged furry friends become more adoptable. Many at affordable prices. For a look at some of what's offered in our area check out these links:

http://www.orangecountyfl.net/CultureParks/YouthRecreationPrograms.aspx#.VQCk92Ma44k
http://www.newspaper-marketplace.com/orlando-sentinel/special-section/summer-camp-guide
https://www.kennedyspacecenter.com/education/camp-ksc.aspx
http://camps.fit.edu/
http://www.rollins.edu/summer-camp/index.html
http://www.universityofdoglando.com/camp-doglando/

For a list of top rated Summer Camps across the country go to: http://www.campratingz.com/ShowMost.jsp

 

Stranger Danger!

    While it's important to allow our young children to discover the beauty, magic and wonder of this world, it's also crucial to teach them that dangers do exist-- especially when it comes to strangers.

     Super important-- define "stranger" for them. Obviously, strangers are people your children don't know but be sure to explain there are "good" and "bad" strangers. Tell them "good strangers" like police officers, firefighters, security guards, and teachers at school can always help if they get lost or find themselves in trouble. "Bad strangers" may talk nice but may try to trick them or take them away.

    To keep your kids safe make sure you know where they are at all times, that they know their name, address and your phone number, and that they have safe areas to play, safe streets to use, and safe places to run to if in trouble.

    Most of all teach your children to be assertive and trust their instincts. Let them know it's okay to disobey and run away from adults they don't know when they feel uncomfortable-- especially if approached by a stranger in a vehicle.

    For more information on how to protect your kids from Stranger Dangers go to : http://www.ncpc.org/topics/violent-crime-and-personal-safety/strangers

Fetal Alcohol Syndrome!

     It's a global public health issue that's been getting more and more attention ever since it was given a name more than 40 years ago: Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS) is the most severe of a variety of conditions that belong to a larger group of conditions known as Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders (FASD). All of the disorders can occur in people whose mothers drank alcohol when they were pregnant. That's because the alcohol in the mother's blood passes to the baby through the umbilical  cord. Physical, mental, behavioral and learning problems can develop from the exchange.

   While fetal death can occur from drinking during pregnancy, most babies born with FAS experience some form of defect or disadvantage. Many may have smaller heads and brains. They may have abnormal facial features, have lower body weight and be short in stature when fully grown. Nervous system abnormalities can also occur with FAS. Other symptoms from the spectrum of disorders can include hyperactive behavior, poor memory, poor speech, hearing and vision problems, various learning disabilities, problems socializing and controlling emotions.  Physical conditions effecting the heart, kidneys or bones may also occur.

    There is no known cure for FASD but treatments including medicine and therapy can often be of benefit. In this country, alcohol related defects affect more babies every year than Down Syndrome, Cystic Fibrosis, Spina Bifida, and Sudden Infant Death Syndrome combined. As many as 12,000 babies are born with FAS each year in the United States and another nearly 40,000 are born with other alcohol related disorders.

    Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorders including Fetal Alcohol Syndrome are the only causes of birth defects that you can prevent. You know the answer- and it's a simple one: Don't drink alcohol during pregnancy. If you're pregnant and having issues with alcohol you can get help. Go to http://www.nofas.org/expectant-mother/





   

 

Imaginary Friends!

    Has this ever happened to you? You’re going through your daily routine, your toddler playing nicely near-by-- when all of a sudden you catch a conversation taking place: your little Janie chatting non-stop with Sarah. Who is Sarah? More to the point- Where is Sarah?

    Well, she’s Janie’s new imaginary friend. Now, before you freak out there are a few things to realize. Number one, this is very common. About 65 percent of youngsters between the ages of 3 and 5 create invisible friends, and some even maintain these friendships through age 7. Secondly, it’s normal. Your child has the perfect playmate who does what they want, when they want them to, maybe even taking the blame when little Janie does something she’s not supposed to.

    And while it’s natural for parents to question the reason for the new friend: “Is Janie lonely?” “Does Janie have trouble playing with real kids?” -- In most cases there’s no need for alarm. Imaginary friends help children develop their own identities as they skirt the line between what’s real and what’s pretend, allowing them to imagine how another human might react to a given situation. They also help kids cope with fears, and can even teach responsibility as your child looks out for the well-being of their invisible friend. “Mommy be careful, you almost sat on Sarah.”

    However, if you notice the imaginary friend becomes too much a part of your little one’s life-- to the exclusion of real life playmates, or if the invisible friend stays around once your child has entered elementary school, you may want to consult a professional to see if there are any real issues.

    It’s even cool for you to interact with Janie’s friend, just don’t overdo it and let her always know Sarah is pretend. She’s also an amazing manifestation of your child’s imagination and creativity. So every once in a while, set an extra plate at the table and you may be surprised what you’ll learn from your little one and his/her new friend.

Adoption Credits At Tax Time!

    It's that time of year when the IRS comes calling. If you're a parent with an adopted child or children I just want to remind you of the Federal Adoption Tax Credit for 2014.

    If you finalized your adoption in 2014, the credit allowed for an adopted child with special needs is $13,190; the maximum credit allowed for other adoptions is the amount of qualified adoption expenses up to $13,190. Phaseouts do apply depending on your income so check with your accountant or tax preparer.

    This credit is paid one time for each adopted child, and should be claimed when you file your taxes for 2014. (Usually early 2015).

    To be eligible for the credit you must have adopted a child other than a stepchild. The child must be under 18 or unable to physically or mentally take care of him or herself. And again, your earnings must be within the income limits.

    Now, if you finalize an adoption this year, in 2015-- which you'll file for next year, the credit allowed for an adoption of a child with special needs goes up a bit to $13,400, and the maximum credit allowed for other adoptions is the amount of qualified adoption expenses up to $13,400. Again, phaseouts do apply so it's always best to check with a professional who specializes in income taxes.

   For answers to questions you may have go to http://www.adoptionhelp.org/adoption-tax-credit
or http://www.irs.gov/taxtopics/tc607.html

Human Trafficking Awareness Day- January 24, 2015

Slavery and oppression are not things of the past. Please come out to Lake Eola from 11AM to 4PM this Saturday the 24th-- to take part in an awareness program aimed at putting an end to human trafficking in Central Florida. For more information go to GOHTTF.org

MANAGING YOUR MONEY!

   It's an issue I deal with nearly everyday: women telling me they have no idea where their money goes. Delving into this issue I discovered that's it not negligence or a lack of concern that's keeping these women in the dark, but a lack of confidence when it comes to money matters and a hesitancy to make important financial decisions because of it.  

    In fact, studies show that while women want a role in making major financial decisions, I'm talking the big items not the grocery bill-- less than two thirds of women actually have a say in household financial decision making. Many women turn over the household finances to their husbands or significant others or they allow the family financial adviser to take charge-- and that means women are giving away the power to control their money. If this is your story--  without the financial know-how, divorce or death can push you right into poverty.

    If you're part of the 42% of all women who readily admit that they don't have financial security, it's time to take back the power.  With women outliving men by an average of five years, it's a good idea to keep your money managing skills sharp. So how do you do that?

    Here are some simple steps:
-Get educated to share in financial decision making and build self-confidence when it comes to your money.
-Talk over all family money matters with your spouse or significant other.
-Spend less than you make.
-Set goals to save more.
-Don't reward yourself for accomplishments by spending money (i.e.): "I just did 'such-and-such' so I deserve a shopping spree."
-Don't let fear of failure keep you from investing, (Remember you're getting educated to make informed     decisions).

For statistics and more on women and managing money check out: http://womenmoneyandsuccessmag.com/resources/statistics

THREE STEPS FOR STICKING TO YOUR NEW YEAR’S RESOLUTIONS!

It’s 2015—the start of a brand new year and if you are like nearly half of the adults in this country (Yours Truly included) you made a New Year’s Resolution, maybe even several. But do you realize that only 8 percent of us will actually keep those resolutions. That’s right, 8 percent and most of us will give up before Valentine’s Day. So here are three tips to help you stick to your New Year’s Resolutions.

1). Set a realistic goal and be specific. Instead of pledging to drop 50 pounds this year, try giving yourself until the end of January to drop just ten. Instead of saying I’m going to save money this year—commit to saving a determined amount per week or month. If you’re successful you can set a new goal and make your New Year’s Resolution progressive.

2). Keep track of your progress. Count calories, write down your savings—whatever it is-- you will stay dedicated if you have tangible proof you are working toward a successful New Year’s Resolution.

3). Get back on the horse. Realize that you will have set-backs, but don’t get discouraged. Dwelling on the negative will only give you an excuse to quit. Shake it off, stay positive and restart your resolve.