April 2023 Newsletter
Patricia Lee
A Note From The Publisher
If you live in Florida and need financial or other assistance, these links should guide you to the help you need. We are living in tough times and I hope these links will help someone who is struggling.
This is certainly not a complete list but should be a good search start, if you are in need.
Northwest Florida - Find Assistance: 2-1-1 Northwest Florida (communityos.org)
Jewish Family and Community Services: jfcsjax.org
Rent Assistance In Destin, FL - Destin Florida Rent Assistance Programs
All County Financial Assistance (rent, utilities, etc.) - Financial Assistance - All County Property Management (allcountyemeraldcoast.com)
Florida Emergency Solutions Grant - Financial Assistance Program: Florida Emergency Solutions Grant Financial Assistance Program (EFAHP) (needhelppayingbills.com)
Social Service Resource Guide for Okaloosa County: Keep in mind this has not been updated since 2019 but most likely, these programs are still operating. Social Services Resource Guide-Okaloosa Walton_.pdf (careersourceokaloosawalton.com)
Meanwhile, this is my birthday month! I will be 64 years old and happy to say it because it sure beats the alternative! One thing that keeps me going is focusing on what I can do to help others. It keeps my mind healthy and happy!
Personal Message:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with over 7,600 members. If you own a local business and would like to advertise in our group or here in our newsletter, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
If you live in Destin proper and receive Destin Life newspaper, look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Creator: www.Facebook.com/groups/Destinites Est: October 2018
If you live in Florida and need financial or other assistance, these links should guide you to the help you need. We are living in tough times and I hope these links will help someone who is struggling.
This is certainly not a complete list but should be a good search start, if you are in need.
Northwest Florida - Find Assistance: 2-1-1 Northwest Florida (communityos.org)
Jewish Family and Community Services: jfcsjax.org
Rent Assistance In Destin, FL - Destin Florida Rent Assistance Programs
All County Financial Assistance (rent, utilities, etc.) - Financial Assistance - All County Property Management (allcountyemeraldcoast.com)
Florida Emergency Solutions Grant - Financial Assistance Program: Florida Emergency Solutions Grant Financial Assistance Program (EFAHP) (needhelppayingbills.com)
Social Service Resource Guide for Okaloosa County: Keep in mind this has not been updated since 2019 but most likely, these programs are still operating. Social Services Resource Guide-Okaloosa Walton_.pdf (careersourceokaloosawalton.com)
Meanwhile, this is my birthday month! I will be 64 years old and happy to say it because it sure beats the alternative! One thing that keeps me going is focusing on what I can do to help others. It keeps my mind healthy and happy!
Personal Message:
If you are a resident of the Destin or close surrounding area, I invite you to join our private locals Destinites Facebook group at www.Facebook.com/Destinites with over 7,600 members. If you own a local business and would like to advertise in our group or here in our newsletter, please email me at [email protected]. Thank you and HAPPY NEW YEAR!
If you live in Destin proper and receive Destin Life newspaper, look for my article every month titled "Ask Destinites."
Patricia Lee, Owner: www.Destinites.com Destinites, Inc. (TM)
Creator: www.Facebook.com/groups/Destinites Est: October 2018
If you are interested in being a sponsor or article contributor, contact Patricia: [email protected]
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad for activity and rental discounts
|
Click the Ad
|
Lori Leath Smith
Embracing Unique Abilities: You Can Help Through The Westwood Ranch Rodeo:
Story shared by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
A lot of families with a young child with Autism are thinking, “What if something happens to me? I just want to know that my child is safe, and someone will love them just as much as I do.”
More than five years ago, Lindy Wood had a dream – a dream of a program geared toward older youth and young adults with autism and special needs developmental differences. She wanted to be able to offer more for her son, Weston, diagnosed with Autism at age 2, and other teens and young adults affected by Autism. So, with a hope to create opportunities to develop and cultivate independent, life-changing skills, surrounded with love, Lindy and her husband, founders of Westonwood Ranch, purchased a 40-acre tract of land in Freeport to begin a farm and, eventually, birth a new local non-profit.
Westonwood Ranch is designed to fill in the service gaps where other transitional programs fall short. “But it’s also about advocacy for this population and breaking barriers,” said Kelly Thompson, Westonwood Ranch Executive Director. “Due to the individual’s diagnosis, society already puts labels and barriers to their abilities and Westonwood wants to break down those barriers.”
In just a short time, Westonwood Ranch has grown into providing programs focused on teaching life and vocational skills for adolescents and young adults in our area with varying developmental disorders differences. The farm offers a comprehensive, holistic learning program for full-time students, ages 12 through adult, that focuses on providing functional learning opportunities. Through hands-on ranch operations, students learn skills in aquaponic farming, animal husbandry, kitchen operations, creative art exploration and fitness classes. The overall goal is for these young individuals and adults with developmental differences to learn to transition into the next phase of their lives.
Part of Lindy’s dream was for the farm to be self-sustaining with a revenue stream to help support the non-profit. Today, it IS a working farm with several social enterprises that not only serve as hands-on, job skill training and employment opportunities, but contribute back into the program.
“There are two social enterprises currently,” said Kelly. “There is a 3,500-sq.-ft. commercial greenhouse where we grow lettuce and sell to local businesses,” she said. “And there is the Westonwood Ranch Brew Chews – our signature dog biscuit company. This company got off the ground last fall and we are currently selling wholesale to local businesses, but plan to open up online sales to the public soon.” Odd Pelican Brewing Co. in Freeport donates the grains. “Participants help with all aspects of business, from baking to packaging and delivering,” she said, “and all sales go back into the company to allow us to hire more individuals with developmental differences.”
In the fall of 2020, Westonwood received a grant from Impact 100 of Northwest Florida to start a job training program and launched Program LIFTOFF in April 2021. It is a job skills training grant with an end goal of gainful paid employment at Westonwood Ranch. Program applicants must be age 18 or over with developmental differences and must want to obtain employment at program completion. “This is a 4-phase program with a focus on soft skill acquisition as well as social skills,” she said. There are 15 in the program currently with three additional students joining in the spring. “We just hired the first four participants within our social enterprises who will receive their first paycheck at the end of the month. They’ve made it through the LIFTOFF phases and have shown progress through onboard training.”
“Society is the one that puts limits on them,” said Kelly. “We want to teach society that with the right resources and right training, they are capable of so much more and should have the same workforce opportunities as their neurotypical counterparts.”
Westonwood Ranch is laying the groundwork to hopefully be a model to other companies and communities about how to hire individuals with developmental differences. “We want our local community and society as a whole to not look past these individuals just because they may be different. Our motto is “Embrace Unique Abilities” and we are here to challenge our community to do just that through our grass roots movement.” Kelly noted some big businesses ARE starting to do these things and her hope is that it will trickle down into our communities.
Story shared by Lori Leath Smith, Publisher - Life Media, Inc. Destin Life community newspaper
A lot of families with a young child with Autism are thinking, “What if something happens to me? I just want to know that my child is safe, and someone will love them just as much as I do.”
More than five years ago, Lindy Wood had a dream – a dream of a program geared toward older youth and young adults with autism and special needs developmental differences. She wanted to be able to offer more for her son, Weston, diagnosed with Autism at age 2, and other teens and young adults affected by Autism. So, with a hope to create opportunities to develop and cultivate independent, life-changing skills, surrounded with love, Lindy and her husband, founders of Westonwood Ranch, purchased a 40-acre tract of land in Freeport to begin a farm and, eventually, birth a new local non-profit.
Westonwood Ranch is designed to fill in the service gaps where other transitional programs fall short. “But it’s also about advocacy for this population and breaking barriers,” said Kelly Thompson, Westonwood Ranch Executive Director. “Due to the individual’s diagnosis, society already puts labels and barriers to their abilities and Westonwood wants to break down those barriers.”
In just a short time, Westonwood Ranch has grown into providing programs focused on teaching life and vocational skills for adolescents and young adults in our area with varying developmental disorders differences. The farm offers a comprehensive, holistic learning program for full-time students, ages 12 through adult, that focuses on providing functional learning opportunities. Through hands-on ranch operations, students learn skills in aquaponic farming, animal husbandry, kitchen operations, creative art exploration and fitness classes. The overall goal is for these young individuals and adults with developmental differences to learn to transition into the next phase of their lives.
Part of Lindy’s dream was for the farm to be self-sustaining with a revenue stream to help support the non-profit. Today, it IS a working farm with several social enterprises that not only serve as hands-on, job skill training and employment opportunities, but contribute back into the program.
“There are two social enterprises currently,” said Kelly. “There is a 3,500-sq.-ft. commercial greenhouse where we grow lettuce and sell to local businesses,” she said. “And there is the Westonwood Ranch Brew Chews – our signature dog biscuit company. This company got off the ground last fall and we are currently selling wholesale to local businesses, but plan to open up online sales to the public soon.” Odd Pelican Brewing Co. in Freeport donates the grains. “Participants help with all aspects of business, from baking to packaging and delivering,” she said, “and all sales go back into the company to allow us to hire more individuals with developmental differences.”
In the fall of 2020, Westonwood received a grant from Impact 100 of Northwest Florida to start a job training program and launched Program LIFTOFF in April 2021. It is a job skills training grant with an end goal of gainful paid employment at Westonwood Ranch. Program applicants must be age 18 or over with developmental differences and must want to obtain employment at program completion. “This is a 4-phase program with a focus on soft skill acquisition as well as social skills,” she said. There are 15 in the program currently with three additional students joining in the spring. “We just hired the first four participants within our social enterprises who will receive their first paycheck at the end of the month. They’ve made it through the LIFTOFF phases and have shown progress through onboard training.”
“Society is the one that puts limits on them,” said Kelly. “We want to teach society that with the right resources and right training, they are capable of so much more and should have the same workforce opportunities as their neurotypical counterparts.”
Westonwood Ranch is laying the groundwork to hopefully be a model to other companies and communities about how to hire individuals with developmental differences. “We want our local community and society as a whole to not look past these individuals just because they may be different. Our motto is “Embrace Unique Abilities” and we are here to challenge our community to do just that through our grass roots movement.” Kelly noted some big businesses ARE starting to do these things and her hope is that it will trickle down into our communities.
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Andrea & Paul McArthur
SPRING IS IN THE AIR! Your April Home Checklist:
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
April is the perfect time of year to freshen up the home inside and out. To get sparkling windows, a clutter-free garage and more, here are 16 tasks to make the most of the first full month of spring.
1. Keep mosquitoes at bay. Having warmer weather and longer days means we’re entering mosquito season. Take preventative measures by regularly checking your property for standing water and emptying it. Any open containers (empty flowerpots and saucers, a wheelbarrow) can become mosquito breeding grounds when filled with rainwater, so store items like these upside down or in a shed.
2. Inspect paths and driveway. Repeated freezing and thawing can take a toll on asphalt and concrete. Check your driveway and paths for cracks, scheduling repairs as needed.
3. Clean out trash cans and recycling bins. Take empty cans outside and spray them with a hose to start. Spritz inside and out with the cleaning spray of your choice. Let the bins sit for a few minutes before scrubbing them with a stiff-bristle brush. Rinse with the hose and leave them upside down to dry.
4. Check safety devices. Test batteries on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing them as needed. It’s also a good idea to periodically check for recalls of your home safety products; you can find up-to-date listings at Recalls.gov.
5. Clear clutter. Create more space in your home by clearing out unloved items. If you have a lot to get rid of, set a date to hold a yard sale. Or contact a local charity to schedule a pickup — some will send a truck free of charge if you’re donating large items like furniture. If you have a lot of one type of item (for example, books or baby clothes), look for a consignment shop in your town where you may be able to sell them.
6. Schedule cooling-system maintenance. If you have central air conditioning, be sure to schedule professional maintenance before the start of summer. A properly maintained system cools better, uses less energy, and lasts longer.
7. Spruce up the front porch. Clean the porch floor, exterior windows, windowsills, and front door. Wipe cobwebs from the ceiling and high corners. Lay down a fresh doormat and plant a pot of flowers. If you have porch furniture, clean it off and wash the cushions.
8. Test sprinklers and irrigation system. Don’t let the first sign of a malfunctioning irrigation system be a drooping garden or brown patches in your grass! Take the time this month to test each part, adjusting or repairing as needed.
9. Wash windows. Welcome the spring sunshine by clearing dirt and grime from windows inside and out. After cleaning the glass, take an extra moment to wipe the window frame and sill.
10. Clean and inspect screen doors and windows. Pollen and grime can also build up on window screens, so it’s a good idea to clean them once a year. For a quick cleaning, leave screens in place and vacuum with a dusting attachment. For a deeper cleaning, remove screens (mark which is which if cleaning multiple windows) and gently scrub with warm, soapy water. Rinse and let dry.
Before putting up window screens and screen doors, inspect each one for holes and rips — even small tears can let in mosquitoes. If you find any holes, repair them with a screen patch kit (available at most hardware stores).
11. Clean out the garage. Can you park your car in your garage? If not (or if it’s a tight fit), it may be time to make some more space.
Clear out the junk, and schedule time to take unused paint, motor oil and other hazardous items to a recycling center that accepts them. (If you’re not sure where to go, search Earth911 to find a center near you.) Once your garage is cleaned out, consider adding wall-mounted storage to keep things neat and off the floor.
12. Wash siding. Using a regular garden hose, attach a siding cleaning kit (available at most home improvement stores) to clear away winter grime from your home’s siding. If your siding could use a really deep cleaning, it can be tempting to use a pressure washer to get the job done quickly. But if you do, use it with care or make sure it’s done by someone who knows how to properly pressure wash!
13. Clean gutters and downspouts. Having your home’s gutters and downspouts cleaned (and repaired if necessary) is one of the first important tasks to schedule this season. Clogged gutters during a rainy spring can cause water to pool, potentially damaging the roof and siding.
14. Boost curb appeal. Spring is a wonderful time to make upgrades to your home’s exterior, and even small changes — like putting up bold house numbers and a shiny new mailbox — can make a big impact.
15. Maintain wood decks and fences. Keep outdoor woodwork in top shape by staining or resealing it each spring. Check gates, fencing, decks, railings, pergolas and other outdoor structures, and make repairs as needed.
16. Keep an eye out for termites. From now through May or June, be on the lookout for these winged insects. Termites swarm in the spring. If there’s a bunch of winged insects flying out of a hole in the woodwork, that’s probably termites. If you notice any, call a licensed professional pest-control company.
By Paul McArthur - Owner: Agape Home Pro
April is the perfect time of year to freshen up the home inside and out. To get sparkling windows, a clutter-free garage and more, here are 16 tasks to make the most of the first full month of spring.
1. Keep mosquitoes at bay. Having warmer weather and longer days means we’re entering mosquito season. Take preventative measures by regularly checking your property for standing water and emptying it. Any open containers (empty flowerpots and saucers, a wheelbarrow) can become mosquito breeding grounds when filled with rainwater, so store items like these upside down or in a shed.
2. Inspect paths and driveway. Repeated freezing and thawing can take a toll on asphalt and concrete. Check your driveway and paths for cracks, scheduling repairs as needed.
3. Clean out trash cans and recycling bins. Take empty cans outside and spray them with a hose to start. Spritz inside and out with the cleaning spray of your choice. Let the bins sit for a few minutes before scrubbing them with a stiff-bristle brush. Rinse with the hose and leave them upside down to dry.
4. Check safety devices. Test batteries on smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, replacing them as needed. It’s also a good idea to periodically check for recalls of your home safety products; you can find up-to-date listings at Recalls.gov.
5. Clear clutter. Create more space in your home by clearing out unloved items. If you have a lot to get rid of, set a date to hold a yard sale. Or contact a local charity to schedule a pickup — some will send a truck free of charge if you’re donating large items like furniture. If you have a lot of one type of item (for example, books or baby clothes), look for a consignment shop in your town where you may be able to sell them.
6. Schedule cooling-system maintenance. If you have central air conditioning, be sure to schedule professional maintenance before the start of summer. A properly maintained system cools better, uses less energy, and lasts longer.
7. Spruce up the front porch. Clean the porch floor, exterior windows, windowsills, and front door. Wipe cobwebs from the ceiling and high corners. Lay down a fresh doormat and plant a pot of flowers. If you have porch furniture, clean it off and wash the cushions.
8. Test sprinklers and irrigation system. Don’t let the first sign of a malfunctioning irrigation system be a drooping garden or brown patches in your grass! Take the time this month to test each part, adjusting or repairing as needed.
9. Wash windows. Welcome the spring sunshine by clearing dirt and grime from windows inside and out. After cleaning the glass, take an extra moment to wipe the window frame and sill.
10. Clean and inspect screen doors and windows. Pollen and grime can also build up on window screens, so it’s a good idea to clean them once a year. For a quick cleaning, leave screens in place and vacuum with a dusting attachment. For a deeper cleaning, remove screens (mark which is which if cleaning multiple windows) and gently scrub with warm, soapy water. Rinse and let dry.
Before putting up window screens and screen doors, inspect each one for holes and rips — even small tears can let in mosquitoes. If you find any holes, repair them with a screen patch kit (available at most hardware stores).
11. Clean out the garage. Can you park your car in your garage? If not (or if it’s a tight fit), it may be time to make some more space.
Clear out the junk, and schedule time to take unused paint, motor oil and other hazardous items to a recycling center that accepts them. (If you’re not sure where to go, search Earth911 to find a center near you.) Once your garage is cleaned out, consider adding wall-mounted storage to keep things neat and off the floor.
12. Wash siding. Using a regular garden hose, attach a siding cleaning kit (available at most home improvement stores) to clear away winter grime from your home’s siding. If your siding could use a really deep cleaning, it can be tempting to use a pressure washer to get the job done quickly. But if you do, use it with care or make sure it’s done by someone who knows how to properly pressure wash!
13. Clean gutters and downspouts. Having your home’s gutters and downspouts cleaned (and repaired if necessary) is one of the first important tasks to schedule this season. Clogged gutters during a rainy spring can cause water to pool, potentially damaging the roof and siding.
14. Boost curb appeal. Spring is a wonderful time to make upgrades to your home’s exterior, and even small changes — like putting up bold house numbers and a shiny new mailbox — can make a big impact.
15. Maintain wood decks and fences. Keep outdoor woodwork in top shape by staining or resealing it each spring. Check gates, fencing, decks, railings, pergolas and other outdoor structures, and make repairs as needed.
16. Keep an eye out for termites. From now through May or June, be on the lookout for these winged insects. Termites swarm in the spring. If there’s a bunch of winged insects flying out of a hole in the woodwork, that’s probably termites. If you notice any, call a licensed professional pest-control company.
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Daniel Jones
Home Insurance Coverages that Should Never Be Sacrificed to Save Money:
by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
The current homeowner’s market has been painful. As insurance agents we spend the majority of our time quoting policies that have seen soaring prices. We also see many quotes and policies from other agencies that don’t provide adequate coverage in an attempt to save a couple hundred dollars annually. We all want to get you the best rate, but there are some coverages that should never be sacrificed.
We want all of our neighbors to know what their minimum coverage should include so you don’t get cheated by someone who doesn’t your best interest at heart. In order of importance, you should review these coverages on your home insurance policy:
After reviewing these coverages, take a quick look at your policy and see if any of these tips apply.
by Daniel Jones, Insurance Agent and Owner: Norton Insurance Agency
The current homeowner’s market has been painful. As insurance agents we spend the majority of our time quoting policies that have seen soaring prices. We also see many quotes and policies from other agencies that don’t provide adequate coverage in an attempt to save a couple hundred dollars annually. We all want to get you the best rate, but there are some coverages that should never be sacrificed.
We want all of our neighbors to know what their minimum coverage should include so you don’t get cheated by someone who doesn’t your best interest at heart. In order of importance, you should review these coverages on your home insurance policy:
- Make sure you home is covered for Replacement Cost and NOT Actual Cash Value. Replacement cost is the amount it would take a rebuild in the current economy, up to the policy limit. Actual Cash Value depreciates the value of property to account for time, which means it is always much less than Replacement Cost and will likely not be enough to cover the amount for a new roof or new house.
- Hurricane Deductible should be less than 10%. Hurricane deductibles are the amount you will have to pay if you place a claim. It’s a percentage of your total home value, not the claim amount. If you have a 5% deductible on a $500,000 property, you’ll be paying $25,000 for a roof claim, which is about the same cost of buying your own roof. We typically shoot for 2-3% wind deductible.
- Liability Limits should be over the $100,000 minimum that companies set. Liability coverages pay for any injuries or damages of others. In a time of rising medical costs, $100,000 may not be enough. Especially if you have a pool and there’s a risk of drowning, please raise your rates to at least $300,000.
- Did you know your insurance will pay for your lodging if you must be relocated from your home? Loss of Use covers hotel stays and lost income in you have a rental home. It doesn’t cost much to increase this amount, so think of how many thousands you can save by keeping it in the event there’s damage. Since it’s buried in the coverages, it’s often overlooked.
After reviewing these coverages, take a quick look at your policy and see if any of these tips apply.
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Jessica Fricke
Travel With A Toddler: by Jessica Fricke Associate for Travelmation
One of top concerns Travel Agents get is “how in the world do I travel with a toddler?” As we all know, kids have a special way of making fun things a bit more challenging But, as a fellow parent of two toddlers, please do not let this be what holds you back from exploring the world. Here are a few tidbits to help you prepare.
Travel tips with baby or toddler
* Pack travel toys - Some fun suggestions your toddler will love would be an LCD writing tablet, fidget toys, busy books, Water Wow books, play-doh, stickers, and window clings for plane windows. These should keep your toddler busy and entertained while traveling. One good tip to remember is don’t give them everything at once. Let them see one toy/activity at a time and when they start getting bored, move on to the next thing. This will keep them engaged for a longer amount of time.
* Dress them in layers - Planes can be cold and airports can sometimes be hot with people bustling around. Make sure your toddler is comfortable no matter the temperature by dressing them in layers you can put on or take off depending on temperature changes.
* Bring surprises - Allow your little one to open a new small toy or a special snack they normally wouldn’t get at home. This will keep them excited about traveling and make for a happy plane ride!
* Prepare for air pressure changes - As adults, we usually know how planes can have an impact on our ears so we can be prepared for the change in pressure. Unfortunately, toddlers and babies usually don’t know how to handle the change which can hurt and result in a crying babe on the plane. Upon takeoff, try giving your little one their bottle or sippy cup, pacifier, or a snack. This should get their ears to pop and adjust to the pressure change quicker and naturally without them really noticing much of a difference. Lollipops, gummies, or other chewy foods can help with older toddlers as well.
* Be flexible - Toddlers have big emotions and long travel days can cause meltdowns (even for adults sometimes!) So it is important to be calm when things don’t go as planned. Take a deep breath and don’t dwell on things you can’t change like flights getting cancelled, etc. Your little one will feed off your energy when there’s a shift in travel plans, so be flexible and stay as calm as possible when plans change.
* Pack extras! - If you’ve been around a baby or toddler for more than a day, you know there can be unexpected accidents at the worst times. Be sure to pack extra diapers, wipes, pants, shirts, and socks. You never know when they may have a major accident or spill something all over their outfit. The faster you can get them cleaned up and changed, the happier your little one will be on a travel day!
* Be prepared & organized - Make sure all IDs/passports, boarding passes, diapers, snacks, etc. are easily accessible at all times. This is especially important when boarding or going through security. Have all travel documents and IDs handy and ready to show to the airport employees. This will make for a much smoother journey to get to your final destination and allow your to stay focused on your kiddo.
* If you use technology with your little one, make sure to download some of their favorite games and shows ahead of time so that you are not dependent upon spotty Wifi. Apps such as Amazon Prime, Disney +, PBS Kids, and Netflix will all allow you to download shows and movies that can be watched without internet.
* Don’t forget lovies, blankets, and other comforts from home that will help your toddler settle in for nap time! The hum of the plane makes for a great sound machine.
* Remember to have fun and embrace all the amazement and joy your little one will find when traveling to new places!
One of top concerns Travel Agents get is “how in the world do I travel with a toddler?” As we all know, kids have a special way of making fun things a bit more challenging But, as a fellow parent of two toddlers, please do not let this be what holds you back from exploring the world. Here are a few tidbits to help you prepare.
Travel tips with baby or toddler
* Pack travel toys - Some fun suggestions your toddler will love would be an LCD writing tablet, fidget toys, busy books, Water Wow books, play-doh, stickers, and window clings for plane windows. These should keep your toddler busy and entertained while traveling. One good tip to remember is don’t give them everything at once. Let them see one toy/activity at a time and when they start getting bored, move on to the next thing. This will keep them engaged for a longer amount of time.
* Dress them in layers - Planes can be cold and airports can sometimes be hot with people bustling around. Make sure your toddler is comfortable no matter the temperature by dressing them in layers you can put on or take off depending on temperature changes.
* Bring surprises - Allow your little one to open a new small toy or a special snack they normally wouldn’t get at home. This will keep them excited about traveling and make for a happy plane ride!
* Prepare for air pressure changes - As adults, we usually know how planes can have an impact on our ears so we can be prepared for the change in pressure. Unfortunately, toddlers and babies usually don’t know how to handle the change which can hurt and result in a crying babe on the plane. Upon takeoff, try giving your little one their bottle or sippy cup, pacifier, or a snack. This should get their ears to pop and adjust to the pressure change quicker and naturally without them really noticing much of a difference. Lollipops, gummies, or other chewy foods can help with older toddlers as well.
* Be flexible - Toddlers have big emotions and long travel days can cause meltdowns (even for adults sometimes!) So it is important to be calm when things don’t go as planned. Take a deep breath and don’t dwell on things you can’t change like flights getting cancelled, etc. Your little one will feed off your energy when there’s a shift in travel plans, so be flexible and stay as calm as possible when plans change.
* Pack extras! - If you’ve been around a baby or toddler for more than a day, you know there can be unexpected accidents at the worst times. Be sure to pack extra diapers, wipes, pants, shirts, and socks. You never know when they may have a major accident or spill something all over their outfit. The faster you can get them cleaned up and changed, the happier your little one will be on a travel day!
* Be prepared & organized - Make sure all IDs/passports, boarding passes, diapers, snacks, etc. are easily accessible at all times. This is especially important when boarding or going through security. Have all travel documents and IDs handy and ready to show to the airport employees. This will make for a much smoother journey to get to your final destination and allow your to stay focused on your kiddo.
* If you use technology with your little one, make sure to download some of their favorite games and shows ahead of time so that you are not dependent upon spotty Wifi. Apps such as Amazon Prime, Disney +, PBS Kids, and Netflix will all allow you to download shows and movies that can be watched without internet.
* Don’t forget lovies, blankets, and other comforts from home that will help your toddler settle in for nap time! The hum of the plane makes for a great sound machine.
* Remember to have fun and embrace all the amazement and joy your little one will find when traveling to new places!
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Kim Schneider
Barn-Style Doors Aren’t Just For Farmhouse Decor:
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Many love the popular barn-style door but view it as a farmhouse element. Barn doors have been around a while, but with the ability to transpose itself to fit into many different styles and because of its space saving qualities it no longer just for the farmhouse vibe. Understanding the Pros and Cons of the barn door can help you decide if it’s right for your space.
PROS: Barn Doors are like a moving piece of art. They have a creative design element and can be perfectly integrated with the whole home aesthetic. Barn doors can bring another element to the room, such as a mirror, blackboard, glass, texture, etc. Barn doors are suitable for small spaces where a standard hinged door may not have been feasible. I’m told they’re easy to assemble and can also be disassembled just as easily should you wish to move it to another area in your home or take it with you when
you move.
CONS: Barn doors have poor sound insulation, do not seal or have a locking mechanism. There’s a gap between the door and the wall so that the door can operate properly but it leaves little privacy. Barn doors have a high load-bearing requirement. It’s best to install them on a load-bearing wall, such as a cement or concrete wall. Since Barn doors depend on a hanging rail and pulley to operate it’s suggested to purchase high-quality hardware. Loud noises and a rough glide have been reported when opening and
closing the doors with inexpensive hardware. Barn doors can be a fun visual element, but they’re better suited for the
more public spaces in your home.
by Kim Schneider owner: Home - Coastal Design by Kim
Many love the popular barn-style door but view it as a farmhouse element. Barn doors have been around a while, but with the ability to transpose itself to fit into many different styles and because of its space saving qualities it no longer just for the farmhouse vibe. Understanding the Pros and Cons of the barn door can help you decide if it’s right for your space.
PROS: Barn Doors are like a moving piece of art. They have a creative design element and can be perfectly integrated with the whole home aesthetic. Barn doors can bring another element to the room, such as a mirror, blackboard, glass, texture, etc. Barn doors are suitable for small spaces where a standard hinged door may not have been feasible. I’m told they’re easy to assemble and can also be disassembled just as easily should you wish to move it to another area in your home or take it with you when
you move.
CONS: Barn doors have poor sound insulation, do not seal or have a locking mechanism. There’s a gap between the door and the wall so that the door can operate properly but it leaves little privacy. Barn doors have a high load-bearing requirement. It’s best to install them on a load-bearing wall, such as a cement or concrete wall. Since Barn doors depend on a hanging rail and pulley to operate it’s suggested to purchase high-quality hardware. Loud noises and a rough glide have been reported when opening and
closing the doors with inexpensive hardware. Barn doors can be a fun visual element, but they’re better suited for the
more public spaces in your home.
Click the Ad
|
Click the Ad
|
Travel & Day Trips Around Florida
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
There is a website you might enjoy called, Florida Back Roads Travel. Here is a link to one of their pages where you can find day trips by theme; for example: amusment parks. Check it out! https://www.florida-backroads-travel.com/florida-day-trips-by-theme.html
Events Calendar
|
AREA EVENTS! <-- Please click the picture to view some of our local events for the Destin area. Monthly Calendar. |
Destin City www.cityofdestin.com
Volunteer Opportunites: Posted from the Destin City website at Volunteer Opportunities | Destin, FL - Official Website (cityofdestin.com)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
Volunteer Opportunities City Boards/Committees (details)
|
Gotta love it!
|
|
|
Okaloosa County Master Gardeners: Facebook page https://www.facebook.com/OCMGA
If you want to know what to plant and when, check out this Planting calendar on the OCMGA website. https://www.ocmga.org |
|
April at the Destin Library: Click on the picture to be taken to the Library's calendar of events for the month of May. They have some exciting, fun things taking place! I think you just may be surprised at what all goes on there. There is a lot more than just books at that place. Check it out! |
Christian Corner: by Patricia Lee
Happy Easter to you all! No grave held his body down and it won't hold mine down either. Jesus is my savior and God is my Father. I will be with them one day and oh, what a glorious day that will be!
5: Matthew 28:2-7
Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. Then the angel spoke to the women. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. And now, go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember what I have told you.”
2: John 12:23-26
But Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified. Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.”
Invitation:
If you have not accepted Him into your life, sincerely ask for His forgiveness of your past sins and you will receive it. He wants you to have all the blessings He has to give. His arms are open for anybody who wants to come to Him.
And, there is no problem you can have that He cannot guide you through; giving you all the knowledge and strength you need. Tell Him you want Him in your life; that you want to see Him in Heaven one day; that you want to live a life that will make Him proud of you. A life that will be full of worship toward Him and putting Him first in all that you do. Just "ask and ye shall receive!" Yes, it's that simple. He will write your name in the Lambs book of life and it shall never be erased. Go to Him now. He is waiting.
I hope you enjoy the video below of Molly Skaggs; Ricky Skaggs daughter, as she sings,
"Ain't No Grave (gonna hold my body down)".
Happy Easter to you all! No grave held his body down and it won't hold mine down either. Jesus is my savior and God is my Father. I will be with them one day and oh, what a glorious day that will be!
5: Matthew 28:2-7
Suddenly there was a great earthquake! For an angel of the Lord came down from heaven, rolled aside the stone, and sat on it. His face shone like lightning, and his clothing was as white as snow. The guards shook with fear when they saw him, and they fell into a dead faint. Then the angel spoke to the women. “Don’t be afraid!” he said. “I know you are looking for Jesus, who was crucified. He isn’t here! He is risen from the dead, just as he said would happen. Come, see where his body was lying. And now, go quickly and tell his disciples that he has risen from the dead, and he is going ahead of you to Galilee. You will see him there. Remember what I have told you.”
2: John 12:23-26
But Jesus answered them, saying, “The hour has come that the Son of Man should be glorified. Most assuredly, I say to you, unless a grain of wheat falls into the ground and dies, it remains alone; but if it dies, it produces much grain. He who loves his life will lose it, and he who hates his life in this world will keep it for eternal life. If anyone serves Me, let him follow Me; and where I am, there My servant will be also. If anyone serves Me, him My Father will honor.”
Invitation:
If you have not accepted Him into your life, sincerely ask for His forgiveness of your past sins and you will receive it. He wants you to have all the blessings He has to give. His arms are open for anybody who wants to come to Him.
And, there is no problem you can have that He cannot guide you through; giving you all the knowledge and strength you need. Tell Him you want Him in your life; that you want to see Him in Heaven one day; that you want to live a life that will make Him proud of you. A life that will be full of worship toward Him and putting Him first in all that you do. Just "ask and ye shall receive!" Yes, it's that simple. He will write your name in the Lambs book of life and it shall never be erased. Go to Him now. He is waiting.
I hope you enjoy the video below of Molly Skaggs; Ricky Skaggs daughter, as she sings,
"Ain't No Grave (gonna hold my body down)".
No part of this website or newsletter may copied or reproduced in any way without expressed written consent of the owner. Destinites is a legally registered name with logo copyright. All rights reserved 2022.