November 2025
nola family NOVEMBER 2025 Parent Fearlessly
Readers’ Choice Meet Your Family Favorites The Great Fall Debate Apple vs. Pumpkin
More Gratitude, Less Attitude
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@nolafamily.com
AMY L. FOREMAN Publisher EDITORIAL AMANDA MILLER Managing Editor AMANDA CIANI MADELINE PISTORIUS JULIANNA STEEN Associate Editors ART/PRODUCTION TOM GONZALES MADELINE MILETELLO ASAREL SMITH MCKINNA SPROLES Graphic Designers ADVERTISING/MARKETING STEVEN BEACHUM Sales Manager CRYSTAL BARRETT KAYLA FRICKS GOMEZ RYN WHITESIDE Senior Account Executives CAMILLE CAVIN JENNIFER HOFFMANN MARTINE MELANCON KAYLEIGH MONTANA JILLIAN WRAY Account Executives ELISABETH BARRETT Marketing Coordinator COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT TERI HODGES Director of Community Partnerships ROXANE VOORHIES Community Outreach ADMINISTRATION BRANDON FOREMAN Chief Executive Officer LAURIE ACOSTA Director of Operations GAYLE GAUTHREAUX Senior Executive ALEXIS ALEXANDER Senior Executive Administrator BREE WRAY Website & Digital Content Strategist SARAH MILLER Client Success Manager CONTACT US: editorial@ frg.inc CORPORATE OFFICE: 3636 S. Sherwood Forest Blvd., Ste. 540 Baton Rouge, LA 70816 (504) 866-0555 NOVEMBER 2025 • ISSUE 174
Photos by freepik.com
THE CAMP CHECKLIST: WHAT YOU CAN DO NOW FOR NEXT YEAR Get a head start on next summer by using our essential camp checklist: research options, get advice, budget smart, and plan early. 6 WAYS TO KEEP YOUR IMMUNE SYSTEM STRONG Boost your family’s immunity this season with simple habits: good hygiene, balanced nutrition, hydration, sleep, exercise, and stress management.
HYPERFIXATION MEALS: THE
NUTRITIONAL PROS & CONS Explore the upsides and downsides of kids’ (and adults’) favorite “hyperfixation meals” and get practical tips for keeping comfort, consistency, and nutrition in balance. 7 RITUALS THAT HELP PARENTS RECHARGE IN UNDER 30 MINUTES Recharge your energy in under 30 minutes with seven simple daily rituals that refresh your body and mind.
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nola family CONTENTS NOVEMBER 2025
FEATURES
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34
Creating a Sense of Home for Foster and Adopted Children
More Gratitude, Less Attitude
Sleigh the Season: The Ultimate Gift Guide
2025 Family Favorites Winners
IN EACH ISSUE
From the Publisher 8
From the Bookshelf 10
Spotlight 12
Mom About Town 14
Out and About 45
Things We Love 50
Snapshots 52
NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE is published monthly by FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) and distributed free of charge. Subscriptions accepted. Only authorized distributors may deliver and pick up the magazine. Paid advertisements appear in FAMILY RESOURCE GROUP INC. (FRG) publications, including print and other digital formats. FRG does not endorse or evaluate the product, service, or company, nor any claims made by the advertisement. We reserve the right to edit, reject, or comment editorially on all materials contributed. We cannot be held responsible for the return of any unsolicited material. NOLA FAMILY MAGAZINE Copyright 2025. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission prohibited.
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We teach our kids so much—kindness, honesty, how to look both ways before crossing the street. But there’s one thing we seem to have skipped entirely: how to actually use a phone. And no, I don’t mean how to scroll, swipe, or record a TikTok. I mean answering an actual call—or making one— without sounding like a confused telemarketer. We give them these devices so we can stay connected, especially once the extracurricular chaos kicks in. But when I was growing up, we had a landline. And not just any landline— one with my very own phone number. I had a clear plastic phone with the colorful wires that lit up when it rang. It was glorious. I also had a pager. Yes, a pager. We were so cool. But here’s the thing—we learned how to answer the phone. We didn’t have a caller ID at first; we just picked up, said hello, and politely told telemarketers that we were minors. Today’s kids? Let’s just say they could use a little guidance. With Christmas coming and many parents thinking about gifting that first phone, here are a few mom-approved etiquette lessons to include—consider them the “charger cord” for good manners. 1. Answer with a simple “Hello.” Not “What?” Not “Yeah?” Just “Hello.” It still works. 2. If someone doesn’t answer, don’t call back five times. It’s a phone, not a doorbell. 3. When you’re done, say “Goodbye.” Hanging up mid- sentence is not a personality trait. 4. Rule number one: Your phone must never die—or you lose it. End of discussion. 5. A phone is a tool, not a toy. Repeat as needed. 6. Think before you post or send. Messages and photos can last forever. 7. If you get a mean or uncomfortable message, tell an adult right away. And if you want to make it official, consider creating a family phone contract. It sets clear expectations, and everyone knows the rules from day one. (I have a sample you can download on our website.) We think we’ve covered everything in parenting—until these random teaching moments pop up and remind us otherwise. I never had to be taught how to answer a phone, but in today’s technology-driven, AI-powered world, I guess we really do have to teach it all. Not just reading, writing, and arithmetic, but how to communicate, interact, and show respect in the digital spaces that shape their lives.
from the publisher
Kids & Cell Phones
W e’re in the homestretch of 2025, and Christmas is creeping up faster than the Amazon delivery guy on a Friday night. By the time this goes to press, we’ll have only seven weeks until Christmas. Yes, you heard me right—panic has officially set in. I don’t know why this happens every year. My boys’ birthday is 11 days before Christmas, and here I am already deep in party planning mode—cake flavors, decorations, the works. So why do I still act surprised when Christmas rolls right in afterward? No clue. But somehow, every year, we pull it off— fueled by caffeine, chaos, and a little bit of Christmas magic (mostly caffeine).
Amy L. Foreman Publisher
Email amy@frg.inc to tell me about topics you'd like to see in future issues.
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N ovember is National Native American Heritage Month, and the New Orleans Public Library has you covered with reading recommendations for all ages that honor, teach, and share Indigenous stories, voices, and histories.
from the bookshelf
CHILDREN In Why We Dance: A Story of Hope and Healing by Deidre Havrelock & Aly McKnight, a young girl gets nervous as she prepares for the Jingle Dress Dance but overcomes her fears after her family reminds her why she dances. The story is an exuberant celebration of a proud Indigenous tradition that inspires hope, resilience, and unity. Brave by Weshoyot Alvitre follows a Native American boy as he proudly grows out his hair, with his dad braiding it each morning. Even though he is teased for the braid at school, he remembers stories of how his father and grandpa were forced to cut their hair in this affirming, heartfelt picture book. Jordan Marie Brings Three White Horses Whetstone by Andrew Maraniss & DeAndra Hodge tells the true story of the celebrated Lakota runner. The book follows Whetstone through her childhood in South Dakota, her journey to becoming a Division 1 runner in college and later
hid from after he dies: She is Ojibwe; she has—had—a sister, and more siblings, a grandmother who’d look after her and a home where she would be loved. But Lucy is being followed. The past has destroyed any chance at safety she had. Will the secrets she’s hiding swallow her whole and take away any hope for the future she always dreamed of? When the past comes for revenge, it’s fight or flight. Created by an all-Indigenous creative team, Indiginerds: Tales from Modern Indigenous Life edited by Alina Pete is an exhilarating celebration featuring 11 stories about Indigenous people balancing traditional ways of knowing with modern pop culture. For too long, stories and artistic expressions from Indigenous people have been written and recorded by others, not by the individuals who have experienced the events. In Ours to Tell: Reclaiming Indigenous Stories by Eldon Yellowhorn & Kathy Lowinger, 16 Indigenous creators relate traditions, accounts of historical events, and their own lived experiences.
a professional runner, and her work in Washington DC advocating for Indigenous people and communities. MIDDLE GRADE You Were Made for This World: Celebrated Indigenous Voices Speak to Young People edited by Stephanie Sinclair & Sara Sinclair brings together 40 Indigenous writers, artists, activists, athletes, scholars, and thinkers with a joint purpose: to share a sense of joy and pride in language, traditional and personal stories and teachings, and shared experiences, and to honor young people for who they are and what they dream of. The Ribbon Skirt by Cameron Mukwa follows Anang, a two-spirit, nonbinary 10-year-old, as they set out to make a ribbon skirt, a piece of clothing typically worn by girls in the Anishinaabe tradition, for an upcoming powwow, finding support, community and confidence along the way. TEEN In Sisters in the Wind by Angeline Boulley, Lucy learns the truth her father
Kacy Helwick is the youth collection development librarian for the New Orleans Public Library’s collections and acquisitions department. Marie Simoneaux is the media and communications coordinator for the New Orleans Public Library.
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spotlight
SUPPORTING LOUISIANA STUDENTS IN TRADE CAREERS
BY AMANDA MILLER
SCHOLARSHIPS AND MENTORSHIP The foundation’s first fundraising event helped provide four scholarships. These awards are designed to help as many students as possible. The foundation partners with the Big Buddy Program to identify students and provide guidance as they prepare for trade school. Mentorship is also an important part of the foundation. Campbell explains, “We had some Allstate agents who allowed the students to come into the agencies to see what it was like being an agent. It’s all about building relationships.” HOW THE COMMUNITY CAN HELP The foundation relies on community support. Donations and sponsorships, including scholarships in honor of loved ones, are what help expand the reach. Volunteers are welcome as well. They are currently looking for those who are skilled in marketing, social media, PR, and graphic design.
LOOKING AHEAD Campbell hopes the foundation will grow into a statewide resource for trade students. She shares, “I’d like to see us at a million dollar budget, so that we can help any student in Louisiana. I want us to be the go-to person, so when someone says, ‘Oh, you’re going to a trade school? Call Bayou Dreams. They can help you.’ That’s why we named it Bayou Dreams, we’re going to focus at home first.” LEARN MORE Students interested in applying for a scholarship can visit bayoudreamsfoundation.org. The application includes three simple steps: Write a one-page essay, submit proof of high school graduation, and show proof of trade school enrollment. Through Bayou Dreams, Campbell hopes to inspire a new generation of skilled workers who will build brighter futures for themselves and for Louisiana.
12 NOVEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM well,” Campbell says. After 38 years as an Allstate agent, Campbell wanted to focus on a project that could make a difference. When it comes to scholarships, people typically think about students heading to four-year universities. However many young people are pursuing trade schools, becoming mechanics, electricians, and other skilled professionals essential to our communities. That’s where Bayou Dreams Foundation comes in. Founded in October 2024 by Rosalind Campbell, the foundation helps Louisiana students succeed in trade careers. A PERSONAL INSPIRATION Campbell’s father graduated from trade school and ran a mechanic shop for 40 years, supporting a family with children who all went to four-year colleges. “Some aren’t going to college, so the push has been for people to go to college. But for those who are going to trade schools, those kids need financial support as
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mom about town
TANA SMITH
BY MADELINE PISTORIUS
14 NOVEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM I want to spread love, peace, fun, and happiness. Honestly, I want people to feel like they can be comfortable in their keeps me pushing because of their smiles and excitement. I love each and every one of my followers. If you take [social media] the right way, it’s actually very healing and rewarding. IS THERE AN IMPACT YOU WISH TO LEAVE ON YOUR COMMUNITY, WITHIN YOUR BUSINESS AND ONLINE? TANA: The person they see online is the same person that they meet in person. Tana Smith fills her life with laughter and authenticity, whether she’s caring for her family, building her career, or connecting with her 213K social media followers. As a licensed registered nurse and business owner, Tana specializes in providing post- operative care for women recovering from plastic surgery. Along with pouring love and empathy into her children and managing their family-run restaurant, Tana captivates her online audience with her signature blend of humor, honesty, and charm. Amid life’s “chaos,” she finds balance in mental wellness, joy, and the importance of family. SINCE GAINING YOUR ONLINE AUDIENCE, HOW HAS YOUR SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE CHANGED YOUR LIFE? TANA: [My followers] mean everything. I don’t necessarily have to post all day on my business page to see results. My followers are calling me [to make appointments]. The word of mouth keeps me booked and busy. I appreciate that I was able to leave my [old] job at the hospital and work fully [for my business]. The economy is shaky, so it’s crazy to see the amount of followers I have that support our restaurant. That restaurant supports my entire family, so if that goes down, my whole family struggles. I see at least 10 of my followers a day in that restaurant. I could be on the break of cracking, and the joy that they give me
Occupation : Owner of Agape Beauty, NOLA, Co-Partner of Neyow’s Creole Cafe, and Social Media Content Creator. Husband: Courtney Smith Children: Caleb, 11, Courtney Jr., 11, Cody, 10, Connor, 3, and Chosen, 1 Hobbies: Dancing, especially with the parent squad of the EDT Dance Team, making videos, and making others laugh and smile.
own skin. Half of the time, my hair isn’t combed online, because of motherhood, businesshood, and everything. But these people still love me for who I am. You don’t have to be famous, you don’t have to be like the celebrities for people to love you. You can be exactly who you are, where you are, and people will love the craziness, chaos, and realness. WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE PARENTS THAT MAY ALSO BE JUGGLING THEIR CAREERS, SOCIAL MEDIA PRESENCE, AND FAMILIES? TANA: Find ways to include your kids in your busy schedule. My kids think it’s a highlight when I ask, “Do you want to do a video with me?” Most of the time, they bring the ideas! Or, when I have to work, I’m like, “Do you want to come?” I’ll be with clients, and my daughter is in another room reading a book. She just likes the fact that she can come with me to work. I might even surprise her and Uber Eats something, like Starbucks. Or even if I have a five minute break, I FaceTime them to ask, “How was your day?” You don’t necessarily, physically
have to be present all the time because in this world, we can’t. A lot of times, we have to have multiple jobs to make ends meet. Take those little moments. Don’t take them for granted. Those little moments are the most important moments. WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU LEARNED IN YOUR CHILDHOOD THAT YOU ARE PASSING DOWN TO YOUR CHILDREN? TANA: At the end of the day, family is what’s most important. [My mom] spent a lot of time at work, and I never understood until I got older that she didn’t want to do that. She just had to do what she had to do. And that made me appreciate her more. She had a routine: to spend time with her family, no matter what time of the day. Even if it was for 30 minutes, we would all sit around while she baked cookies or cinnamon rolls. I learned that those little small core memories, the little smidgens of a time frame, make a big difference in a kid. I couldn’t wait for my mom to come home because I knew
and it is really competitive. We get very, very competitive. And that’s, like, one of my best moments, because we get everybody together. WHAT IS THE KEY TO POSITIVITY? TANA: I tell my kids every day: Name one thing that you like about yourself, name one thing you’re grateful for every day, and name one thing you’re proud of yourself for accomplishing. When you ask yourself those three little things, you will forget all about the negative things. My whole house has ADHD, so we all have our own way of dealing with things. I like to tell people that ADHD is our superpower; it is what I feel like makes us so unique. With ADHD, it’s hard to complete things, so if I can name something that I completed within that day, it is very rewarding. HOW DO YOU PRIORITIZE TIME WITH YOUR HUSBAND? TANA: Sometimes, I feel like we’re trapped into parenthood. We face troubles like everyone else. That’s why eating breakfast together every day [after the kids go to school] is important to us; we kind of get out of parent mode
we were going to have that time together. WHAT’S SOMETHING YOU DO IN YOUR DAILY LIFE THAT MAKES THE DIFFERENCE? TANA: Start the mornings off positive. It amplifies the whole day. I used to find myself yelling, “Come on, we gotta go,” and rushing in the morning a lot. Get up a few minutes earlier. Get stuff done the night before. I find that [if] my kids go into their day feeling happier, they’re in a better mood. It can be hard, and sometimes I have to bite my tongue and let it out once they are out of the car, but the sacrifice makes a difference. WHAT IS YOUR FAVORITE FAMILY TRADITION? TANA: Every Christmas Eve, we get into pajamas and go to my mom’s house. All of my brother’s kids, everyone’s spouses, and the grandparents get together. We let all of the kids open up their presents [from their relatives] on that day. We cook this big, old breakfast, even though it’s nighttime. The older people swap names, and we have to act out the person whose name we have. It’s funny. We’re doing karaoke, we’re doing games,
for a second and spend time with each other. Sometimes he’ll come to the shop if we have a 30 minute break, and he’ll bring coffee, and we’ll post funny videos and have a good time. After [the kids’ bedtime], it’s me and my husband’s time. We love documentaries, so that’s usually how we spend our alone time before bed, even when we’re tired and end up falling asleep on the couch. HOW DO YOU HANDLE WHEN THINGS DON’T GO AS PLANNED? TANA: Take it day by day. Every day is a new day, so don’t take yesterday’s problems into today. It’s okay to cry, and it’s okay to let your kids see you cry because it lets them know that you’re not a robot, that you’re emotional. One time, I broke down and cried in front of the kids. My son asked, “Mom, what’s wrong?” and I said, “I’m just really frustrated today, things are not going as planned.” It’s crazy, they started to clean their stuff and asked, “Well, what can we help you with?” When your kids learn that you have emotions too, they’re more understanding, they listen, and they respect you more. Us parents, we want to be perfect, but a perfect parent doesn’t exist.
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BY RACHAEL MOSHMAN, M.ED. Creating a Sense of Home for Foster and Adopted Children
16 NOVEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM training, and waiting while the interstate paperwork slowly crawled through the system. But she didn’t have that runway. She didn’t know we existed until a few days before our arrival. In less than a week, she had a new home, state, school, and parents with barely time to catch her breath. W . elcoming a new child into your family is a profound moment— beautiful, yes, but often overwhelming. When the child arrives through foster care or adoption, the emotional terrain becomes even more layered. The child has already endured at least one major separation and, quite possibly, many more. They arrive carrying invisible bags of fear, uncertainty, grief, and survival strategies. And let’s be real: The adults are often carrying their own bags, too. My daughter entered foster care at age four and moved more than a dozen times before we adopted her at nine. We met her on a Monday. By Friday, she had flown across the country to live with us—a whirlwind welcome into a completely new life. We had six months of preparation,
Even though we thought we were ready, the reality was far messier and more emotional than expected. We understood, intellectually, that she would need time to adjust, but we weren’t fully prepared for how much we would need to adjust, too. Parenting a child who has experienced trauma requires more than love. It requires rewiring your expectations, tools, and timelines. Nancy Mehesy, a therapist who has supported countless foster and adoptive families, shared some hard-earned wisdom that helped ground us, and continues to help the families I support today. 1. Lower Your Expectations. Then Lower Them Again. “Foster and adoptive families often bring big hearts and high hopes,” Nancy says. “But they’re frequently caught off guard when children don’t respond with gratitude or immediate attachment. These kids are terrified. They’ve landed in what feels like a foreign country—new language, unfamiliar customs—and they only realize they’ve broken a rule when someone corrects them.”
Nancy encourages parents to connect with others who have walked this path and to remind themselves regularly: The child’s behavior is a survival strategy, not a personal rejection. “Adding a child to your home, especially through foster care or adoption, reshapes everything: routines, priorities, even the emotional climate. It will impact every member of your family.” 2. Focus on Emotional Safety First. Helping a child feel physically and emotionally safe is the foundation of everything else. Nancy suggests: ■ Offer choices whenever possible ■ Treat items from their previous homes, such as clothes, books, toys, and photos, with respect. ■ Gently introduce new rules and routines with plenty of notice. ■ Create a quiet, cozy space they can retreat to when overwhelmed. ■ Help them find words (or art, movement, or play) to express big feelings. ■ Give permission to love and miss their birth families or past caregivers. And most importantly? Let the relationship build slowly. Don’t try to
force bonding or attachment. “It takes time,” Nancy reminds. “And it’s okay if it doesn’t feel magical at first. Be honest about your own feelings, too, even the ones that feel messy or ‘wrong.’”
3. Expect Behavior to Be Communication.
Challenging behaviors aren’t just likely— they’re normal. “Many children who have been in foster care haven’t experienced consistent adult care or structure,” Nancy explains. “They’ve learned that the world isn’t safe and that relying on others leads to pain. Acting out can be a protective measure. Each placement chips away at their trust.” She notes that children may start out with what’s often called a “honeymoon period”—appearing calm and compliant only to unravel as their guard comes down. Traditional parenting methods may not work and can even escalate things. Trauma-informed support is essential. Nancy also offers this heads-up: Not everyone in your circle will understand. Friends or extended family might distance themselves, especially if they don’t grasp why parenting looks different now. “Love, even when it’s not reciprocated, is a commitment,” she says. “You’re loving a child through their fear. That’s no small thing.” Roller Coaster Love Story My daughter is now 24. Those 15 years since bringing her to a new home flew by. It has been the most terrifying and delightful roller coaster imaginable. It’s been harder than I imagined, and often painful. Still, I’d choose being her mother again and again, even in the most difficult moments. It’s also been filled with so much love, joy, learning, healing, and growth—for both of us. Foster care and adoption aren’t fairy tales. They’re love stories written in real time, messy, brave, and beautiful. Creating a true sense of home for a child who’s lived through instability means letting go of perfection, embracing repair, and remembering that safety is built, not assumed. If you’re on this journey, know this: You’re not alone. And you don’t have to get it all right to be exactly what your child needs.
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MORE GRATITUDE, Less Attitude
BY AMANDA CIANI
22 NOVEMBER 2025 | NOLAFAMILY.COM The turkey day exchange of, “What I’m grateful for…” produces a warm fuzzy feeling because expressing gratitude is a wonderful way to boost mental health. Good thoughts, such as gratitude, are contagious, one leads to another with a domino effect that can cause a complete shift in mindset. It is similar to when you buy a new car and all of the sudden see T he family is gathered around the Thanksgiving dinner table. You know the drill. It is time to go around the table and share what we are all grateful for, one by one! Looking around the table, everyone is on their best behavior and it is easy to be thankful for family. Realistically though, every day is not like Thanksgiving; sometimes kids lose sight of their gratitude and replace it with attitude. Luckily, with a little modeling and some hard work, gratitude can become a daily habit for kids (and their parents!). Benefits of Gratitude
including their parents. Parents who simply say “please” and “thank you” on the regular are paving the way for their kids to do the same. A good example can be set when interacting with service people, friends, and family, too. Kids listen when you use your words, so choose them wisely—be vocal and express your gratitude often! Along with being grateful for those who are in our lives, it is important to express gratitude for what we have. If your kids are always saying their clothes and toys aren’t good enough, maybe do some reflection and ask where they may be getting that attitude. Is it a learned behavior? Voicing opinions on others’ bigger houses, nicer cars, and fancier trips does no good—it doesn’t make those houses any smaller, the cars less nice, or the trips less fancy. Jealousy just leads to unhappiness within. Focus on enjoying what you have and the journey it took to get the life you have. Everyone works
that type of car on the road everywhere— when you are grateful and positive, you see goodness everywhere. Making an effort to put a focus on expressing gratitude can be a catalyst to an overall good mood! Beyond improving moods, gratitude and optimism are a dynamic duo that can even improve physical health. Negativity and stress go hand-in-hand with weakened immune systems and poor sleep. Continually getting bad sleep and feeling tired and sick can become cyclical and toxic. Take time to reset your mind frame and start feeling better. Not only does a good thought turn into a good mood within an individual, being around someone with a positive outlook can be inspirational and motivational, too. Parent Positively Children are little sponges and they absorb quirks and mannerisms from the people they spend time with most,
hard! We should all be proud of where we are right now. Wanting “more” is fine, but keep it within reason, set achievable goals to get there and focus on being content with your present, too. Children look to their parents as role models, keep that green monster at bay and don’t focus on the material. Take Note A simple act of gratitude with a big impact is keeping track of things for which we are thankful. Whether keeping a family gratitude journal or slipping notes of gratitude into a jar, writing it down physically and holding onto those moments is a great way to really place importance on them. If there is ever a need for a proof of happiness within the family, open up the book or jar, give it a look, and really reflect on the amazing people and moments in life. Give Back Another manifestation of gratitude is acting on it through volunteer work. Understanding that others are truly in need offers a unique perspective on life. For little ones, simply communicating about donating their old toys and outgrown clothes to those who need them can be meaningful. Children may enjoy hosting lemonade stands, with proceeds going to a charity of their choice. This gives them the opportunity to acknowledge a worthy cause and also empowers them to help. Walking door to door to collect canned goods is a great way to meet neighbors and do good! Finally, older children may genuinely enjoy volunteering their time and energy with their friends and family at local community events, charity fundraiser opportunities, and more. Being on the receiving end of, “Thank you,” and having others show their gratitude is a huge self- esteem booster. Not only is giving back rewarding, it can be a lot of fun, too. In a world that focuses on more, bigger, better, take time to acknowledge the now. Be content in the present as a parent and show you are thankful with your words and actions—your children will surely follow suit and have a little less attitude and a bit more gratitude. Have a Happy Thanksgiving and best of luck keeping the gratitude gravy train going!
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Thank you for chosing Devotion Midwifery! Family Favorites 2025 Winner
Contact us today ! devotionmidwifery.com Northshore 607 E Boston St, Suite 202 Covington LA 70433 New Orleans 1772 Prytania St, Suite 203 New Orleans LA 70130
Winner: Favorite Midwife Leila Poland Wyatt CPM, LM, BSM, MPH, CLC, CD
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SLEIGH THE SEASON The Ultimate Holiday Gift Guide Get ready to sleigh the season with our ultimate holiday gift guide, featuring the best picks for babies, kiddos, teens, and adults. BABY & TODDLER
Soft Baby Beehive with 5 Bees The interactive beehive engages babies with plush bees, a soft hive, and sensory features like rattles, squeakers, and mirrors, promoting early learning, fine motor skills, and Montessori-inspired play. $29.99, amazon.com
Ms. Rachel Official Cuddle & Comfort Doll
Grill & Go BBQ Cart with Lights and Sounds™
The official Ms. Rachel plush doll is a super-soft, huggable toy that promotes early learning and play- along fun for babies and toddlers. $8.97, amazon.com
This adorable grill cart turns pretend play into a sizzling adventure with glowing charcoal and sizzling sounds, twistable clicker knobs, a working oven door, and a spinning turntable. $159.99, step2.com
Fisher-Price Baby Tummy Time Toy Flap & Wobble Penguin This friendly-faced tummy time toy responds to your baby’s touch with fun flapping motions and music. $43.19, amazon.com
Melissa & Doug Wooden Shape Sorting Grocery Cart Explore shapes, colors, problem- solving, imaginative play, and more with this sturdy wooden grocery cart push toy. $81.99, amazon.com
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YOUTH
Cribsi Plush Shark Soft Sculpture and Pillow
Nex Playground Transform your TV into an active family game hub, with five games included and an optional subscription for more fun favorites. $249, shop.nexplayground.com
Carrera Mario Kart™ - Mario vs. Yoshi Help steer Super Mario™ and Yoshi to victory with the ergonomic speed controllers on this fun race track. $39.99, carrera-revell-toys.com
This large huggable plush shark can be used as a pillow, decoration, or kept on a shelf. $54.95, cribsi.com
Mini Golf from Smartivity Build your own tabletop Mini Golf game with this STEM kit and compete for the included trophy. Includes easy instructions and a handy cheat sheet. $24.99, amazon.com
Rocket Launcher from Smartivity Build and launch your own rocket with this hands-on STEM kit. Kids design a realistic rocket, place it on the launcher, press the button, and watch it soar. $29.99, amazon.com
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Bratz x Hello Kitty Collector Dolls Fan-favorite Bratz girls—Cloe, Yasmin, and Jade—step into Hello Kitty’s world with all-new, custom-designed looks inspired by her signature kawaii style. $34.99 each, bratz.com
Blast & Roar Toothless Mask Unleash your inner Toothless with this dragon costume mask featuring lights, sounds, and mist! $29.99, amazon.com
Miraculous Ladybug 10th Anniversary Limited-Edition Collector Doll This custom-designed collector doll captures the essence of Ladybug’s heroic spirit. Also included is Ladybug’s iconic Yo-Yo, as well as her ancient grimoire book. $39.99, amazon.com
Remote-Controlled Stitch Bring home interactive fun with Stitch, the programmable, touch- sensitive toy that walks, dances, tells stories, plays trivia, and responds with lights, sounds, and motion. $79.97, walmart.com
3Doodler Start+ Essentials 3D Printing Pen Set The 3Doodler Start+ Essentials Pen Set lets kids bring their ideas to life in 3D. $59.99, the3doodler.com
CONNETIX Magnetic Tiles Glitter Castle Pack
With a selection of glitter tiles in signature pastel and vibrant bright colors, you can bring your castle design to life. $69.99, target.com
Wicked Emerald City Playset This modular playset offers 360-degree play, five reconfigurable spaces, a revealable Wizard’s head, 15 accessories, and Elphaba and Glinda dolls. $43.19, amazon.com
Evergreen Cabin This is a true architectural model making kit, complete with all of the elements needed to build, paint, and accessorize an Evergreen Cabin. $45, stix-brix.com
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TEENS
Shimmee Make the whole place shimmer with Shimmee, a collection of three luxurious glitter stick balms designed to make you glow from head to toe. $25, shopshimmee.com
Flashback ONE35 V2 Camera Experience photography the way it was meant to be. Flashback brings back the anticipation and thoughtfulness of film photography, without the waste or expense. $119, joinflashback.co
West Bend Mini Fridge This retro-designed compact fridge offers a cool, colorful, and sophisticated look for any setting. $199.99, amazon.com
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Magnetic Pen This magnetic pen set includes rings, steel balls, and refills, offering endless creative shapes and stress-relieving fun. $7.99, amazon.com
Felt Letter Board The 10×10-inch light pink felt letter board comes with 300 characters for creating personalized messages. $24.95, amazon.com
Crazy Lady Fuzzy Fluffy Slippers Step into style and comfort with these criss-cross slippers, featuring plush faux fur, memory foam cushioning, and anti-skid soles for cozy, chic indoor or outdoor wear. $19.99, amazon.com
ADULTS
The Grillbox 2.0 Place the Grillbox 2.0 next to your grill or smoker and enjoy the convenience of having all your grilling essentials by your side. $399, thegrillboxcompany.com
Eufy Self-Emptying Vacuum The C10 Robot Vacuum delivers powerful suction and laser navigation, while its self-emptying dust station and slim design make effortless, hands-free home cleaning a reality. $479.99, ama
The Daily Grind Pixiepop Planner Kit This planner is the ultimate productivity tool designed specifically for high achievers who love setting big goals and following through. $59.91, dailygrindplanner.com
Bril UV-C Toothbrush Sanitizer and Holder
Little Ouchies Little Ouchies are spiky, hand-held sensory tools that help safely manage anxiety, sensory overload, and urge- based behaviors. $9.99 each, littleouchies.com
Omega Effortless™ Batch Juicer Create delicious, cold-press juice to get your day’s fruits and veggies in a snap. $549.95, amazon.com
This sleek, UV-C toothbrush sanitizer kills 99.9 percent of germs in just three minutes, doubling as a rechargeable,
travel-friendly holder. $34.99, amazon.com
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Family Favorites WINNERS THE 2025
W ith more than 85,000 votes cast, we are excited to announce this year’s Family Favorites winners! These outstanding businesses, leaders, and administrators go above and beyond every day, and we are
Runners Up Luv 2 Play & R.E.A.D. Nola Favorite Museum The National WWII Museum Runners Up Louisiana Children’s Museum
honored to celebrate their dedication. Congratulations to all!
Airline Skate Center Runners Up Adventure Quest Laser Tag &
Game On Social Hub Favorite Indoor Play Airline Skate Center
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
Favorite Family Entertainment Venue
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Favorite Pediatrician James Connick, MD Runners Up Gabriella M. Bluett Mills, MD & Gabrielle Glasglow, MD Favorite Plastic Surgeon Daniel Womac, MD Runners Up Heath J. Charvet, MD & Jules A. Walters, III, MD Favorite Psychiatrist Jennifer Greco, MD Runners Up Abby Champagne, PMHNP & Lauren LaRose, MD Favorite Special Needs Healthcare Company Crane Rehab Center Runners Up Brennan Behavior Group & ChatterNola Favorite Therapist Laura Hernandez, PhD Runners Up Ashley McInnis, MCD, CCC- SLP & Lydia G. Jaunet, LCSW Favorite Urgent Care Facility LCMC Lakeview Runner Up Doctors After Hours Urgent Care - Veterans Favorite Veterinarian Matthew Levy, DVM Runners Up Chris Forstall, DVM & Patrick McSweeney, DVM Favorite Veterinary Clinic Levy Veterinary Hospital Runners Up Animal Medical & Surgical Hospital & Metairie Small Animal Hospital (MASH) IT’S A PARTY Favorite Entertainer Nola Pixie Dust Runners Up Dev Sekar & Jo Jo the Clown
PMH-C & Garet Edwards, PhD, BCBA-D Favorite OB/GYN Doctor Elizabeth W. Kelly, MD Runners Up Angela Parise, MD & Leah Gonski, MD Favorite OB/GYN Practice Tulane Center for Women’s Health Runners Up Ochsner Health & Touro Midwives Favorite Orthodontic Clinic Shannon Simons, DDS APDC Katherine O’Friel, DDS MS Orthodontics Runners Up Billings Family Dentistry & Gottsegen Orthodontics: Metairie Location Favorite Orthodontist Shannon Simons, DDS APDC Runners Up Allison Hamada, DDS & Lee - ann S. Evans, DDS, MS Favorite Orthopaedic Clinic Tulane Institute of Sports Medicine Runners Up Pontchartrain Bone and Joint & Southern Orthopaedic Specialists Favorite Orthopaedic Doctor Kelly Hill, MD Runners Up Felix Savoie, MD & Neil L. Duplantier, MD Favorite Pediatric Dentist Christen Massey, DDS Runners Up Elizabeth “Liz” Thorson, DDS &
Sanova Dermatology Runners Up Lupo Center for Aesthetic & General Dermatology & Pure Dermatology Favorite ENT Doctor Robert G. Brousse, MD Runners Up Michael G. Desalvo, MD & Riz - wan Aslam, DO, MSMEd MBA, MPH, FACS Favorite ENT Group Ochsner Health Ear, Nose and Throat (ENT) Care Runners Up East Jefferson Ear, Nose & Throat & Worley Magne ENT | New Orleans Favorite Eye Center Eyedox Runners Up Gulf South Eye Associates & Ochsner Medical Center Favorite Family Physician Vy Anh Mai, MD, MS Runners Up David M. Klibert, MD & Nora Oates, MD Favorite General Dentist Emily Levy, DDS Runners Up Hunter L. Charvet, DDS & Terry Billings, DDS Favorite Hospital Ochsner Medical Center Runners Up East Jefferson General Hospital & Ochsner Children’s Hospital Favorite Local Pharmacy Comeaux Pharmacy Runners Up Ochsner Pharmacy & Wellness & Vinnie’s Pharmacy Favorite Mental Health Counselor Lydia G. Jaunet, LCSW Runners Up Ashley Sabido Magee, LPC,
& New Orleans Museum of Art Favorite Music Program The Octave School of Music Runners Up Let’s Make Music (The Parent - ing Center) & School of Rock Favorite Theater Program Rivertown Theaters for the Performing Arts Runners Up Jefferson Performing Arts Center & New Orleans Youth Theater FAMILY HEALTH Favorite Allergist Margaret P. Huntwork, MD Runners Up Reena Mehta, MD & Tammy Harvey, DO Favorite Cosmetic Injector Megan Liebert, NP Runners Up Holly O’Quin, FNP-BC & Dr. Sean Weiss Facial Plastic Surgery & Magnolia Plastic Surgery & Medspa Favorite Day Spa The Ritual Rooms Runners Up Lola’s Medical Spa & Wellness & Oak House Day Spa Favorite Dental Care Group Krewe of Smiles Runners Up Thorson Dentistry for Kids & TMJ and Sleep Therapy Centre of New Orleans Favorite Dermatologist Mara A. Haseltine, MD Runners Up Elizabeth Grieshaber, MD & Kristy Charles, MD Favorite Dermatology Group Jules Walters, MD Favorite Cosmetic Surgery Center Weiler Plastic Surgery Runners Up
Kellie Axelrad, DDS Favorite Pediatric Therapy Group Bright Start Runners Up
Brennan Behavior Group & Michael R. Boh Center for Child Development
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Favorite Mom’s Girls Night Out Delachaise Restaurant Runners Up El Paso Luling & Harahan VFW Craft Fairs Favorite Nonprofit Brooke Erin Posey Foundation Runners Up New Orleans JCC Fitness Center & St. Michael’s Special School Favorite Outreach Program Brooke Erin Posey Foundation Runners Up Dolly Parton Imagination Library New Orleans & New Orleans JCC Fitness Center Favorite Pumpkin Patch Mrs. Heather’s Pumpkin Patch Runners Up
Runners Up Lycée Français de la Nouvelle-Orléans & New Orleans Center for Creative Arts Favorite Charter High School Principal Kassie Cusachs, Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Runner Up Jeremy Geary, L.B. Landry High School Favorite Charter Middle School Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Runners Up Homer Plessy & Hynes Charter School Favorite Charter Middle School Principal Karen Henderson, Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Runners Up Cecily White, Algiers Charter School & Dawn Lobell, Hynes Charter School Favorite College Louisiana State University Runners Up Delgado Community College & Tulane University Favorite Early Learning Center Little Red Schoolhouse & St. Edward the Confessor School Favorite Mothers Day Out Program John Calvin Presbyterian Playschool Runners Up Harahan VFW Craft Fairs & Metairie Ridge Child Development Center Favorite Preschool Program St. Philip Neri Runners Up St. Philip Neri Runners Up St. Edward the Confessor
Favorite Inflatable Rental Bounce World NOLA Runners Up & PartyZone Event Rentals Favorite Party Supplies Bloom and Grow Party Co Runner Up Sparkle and Swag Favorite Party Venue La Petite Palace Runners Up Bricks & Minifigs Metairie & Candyland Inflatable Party Place About To Bounce Inflatable Rentals LOCAL Favorite Church/ Family Worship Center St. Philip Neri Catholic Church Runners Up St. Edward the Confessor Church & St. Louis King of France Church Favorite Community Event Brooke E. Posey Swim-a-Thon & Family FUNraiser Runners Up Jazzfest & St. Philip Neri Fam Jam Favorite Festival Brooke E. Posey Swim-a-Thon & Family FUNraiser Runners Up French Quarter Festival & St. Edward Cochon de Lait Favorite High School Football Team Brother Martin High School Runners Up Archbishop Rummel High School & Jesuit High School Favorite Library Branch Jefferson Parish Library - East Bank Regional Library Runners Up Jefferson Parish Library - Lakeshore Library & Robert E. Smith Library
& Tulane Lakeside Favorite Doula Erica Rae, Birthmark Doula Collective Runners Up
Amanda Herrera, CD/PC - D(DONA), Intune Doula & Labor and Love Favorite Midwife Leila Poland Wyatt CPM, LM, BSM, MPH, CLC, CD, Devotion Midwifery Runners Up Grace Jackson, CPM, Grace Midwifery & Sarah LaMothe, CNM Favorite Newborn/ Maternity Photographer Melinda Gilmore, Melinda Gilmore Photography Runners Up Autumn Hutton Photography & KVR Photography Favorite Pre- and Post-partum Classes Snuggles & Struggles (The Parenting Center) Runners Up SCHOOLED Favorite Charter Elementary School Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Runners Up Homer A. Plessy Community School & Hynes Charter School Favorite Charter Elementary School Principal Andy Astrada, Kenner Discovery Health Runners Up Dawn Lobell, Hynes Charter School & Linda Clogher, The Willow School Favorite Charter High School Kenner Discovery Health Sciences Academy Labor and Love & Nola Nesting
St. Andrew’s Episcopal & St. Paul’s Episcopal Favorite Radio Station 101.9 Runners Up 101.1 WNOE-FM New Orleans & WWOZ Favorite TV Station WVUE-TV Fox 8 Runners Up WNOE 101.1 & WWLTV
MOM AND BABY Favorite 3D/4D Ultrasound Sweet Pea Ultrasound Runners Up First Look Nola & Luxe Baby 3D Imaging
Favorite Baby Gifts Pickleberry Boutique Runners Up
Pearls and Pelicans & Pink-A- Blue Ultrasound & Boutique Favorite Birthing Hospital Ochsner Baptist - A Campus of Ochsner Medical Center Runners Up Touro Infirmary LCMC Health
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Runners Up Ready, Set, Read at St. Georg - es Episcopal School & Sylvan at St. Edward the Confessor SERVICES Favorite Adult Hair Salon Memphis & Co Runners Up Glow Luxury Salon & Studio KP Favorite Attorney Loyd J. Bourgeois Injury & Accident Lawyer Runners Up Samantha Weidner, Saman - tha Weidner, Attorney and Counselor at Law, LLC & Travis J. Beslin, Hebbler Giordano - Metairie Attorneys at Law Favorite Bank Xplore Federal Credit Union Runners Up Capital One & Gulf Coast Bank & Trust Company Favorite Car Wash Pelican Point Car Wash Runners Up Beezy Luxury Detailing & Richs Wash Dat Car Wash Favorite Catering Company Messina’s Catering and Events Runners Up J’aime Le Cafe & Pigeon Catering St Edward the Confessor School & The Little Red Schoolhouse of Metairie Favorite Credit Union Xplore Federal Credit Union Runners Up OnPath Credit Union & Total Choice Credit Union Favorite Kids Hair Salon Kid’s Hair Etc! Runners Up Favorite Child Care St. Philip Neri - Early Learning Center Runners Up
Alice Birney Elementary School & Chateau Estates Schools Favorite Public Elementary School Principal Sandra Newsham, Gretna No. 2 Academy Runners Up Angela Bradley, Ph.D, Joseph C. Moscona School & Lisa Kendrick, J.C. Ellis Elementary School Favorite Public High School Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies Runners Up Benjamin Franklin High School & Destrehan High School Favorite Public High School Principal Brent Vollenweider, Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies Runners Up Dr. Chase Robert Mclaurin, Lycée Français de la Nouvelle-Orléans & Jason Madere, Destrehan High School Favorite Public Middle School Principal Sean Dwyer, Harry Hurst Middle School Principal Favorite Special Needs Education Program St. Michael Special School Runners Up Basics Plus: Communication and Learning & Resource Services at St. George’s Episcopal School Favorite Trade School Delgado Community College Runners Up Louisiana Tech Reserve & Paul Mitchell Favorite Tutoring Program Basics Plus: Communication and Learning Brent Vollenweider, Haynes Academy for Advanced Studies Runner Up
Kids Kuts & Sharkey’s Cuts for Kids - Metairie Favorite Lawn Care Service Manscaping, LLC Runners Up LGD Lawn and Landscape & MC Lawn & Landscaping Favorite Pest
School & St. George’s Episcopal School Favorite Private Elementary School St. Francis Xavier Catholic School Runners Up
St. Edward the Confessor School & St. Philip Neri Catholic School Favorite Private Elementary School Principal Jessica Dwyer, St. Francis Xavier Catholic School Runners Up Dr. Thomas Becker, St. Edward the Confessor School & Richard Hill, St. Philip Neri Favorite Private High School St. Mary’s Dominican High School Runners Up Archbishop Chapelle High School & Cabrini High School Favorite Private High School Principal Connie Dantagnan, Archbish - op Chapelle High School Runners Up Beth Ann Simno, Mount Car - mel Academy & Dr. Elizabeth Cerise LaForge, St. Michael Special School Favorite Private Middle School St. Edward the Confessor Runners Up St. George’s Episcopal School & St. Philip Neri Favorite Private Middle School Principal Jessica Dwyer, St. Francis Xavi - er Catholic School Runners Up Dr. Thomas Becker, St. Edward the Confessor School & Rich - ard Hill, St. Philip Neri Favorite Public Elementary School Gretna No. 2 Academy for Advanced Studies Runners Up
Control Service J&C Pest Control Runners Up Billiot Pest Control & DA Exterminating
Favorite Pet Care Service Crescent City Cat Sitters Runners Up All Star Animal Clinic & Pawlins Favorite Photographer Melinda Gilmore, Melinda Gilmore Photography Runners Up Dawn Roe, Dawn Roe Pho - tography & Jennifer Faurie, Forever Faurie Photography Favorite Photography Studio Melinda Gilmore Photography Runners Up Dawn Roe Photography & Forever Faurie Favorite Special Needs Service Bright Start Runners Up St. Michael Special School & Therapeutic Learning Center Favorite Weightloss Program Aesthetic Loft Runners Up Ochsner Health & SupportIV Wellness and Aesthetics SHOPPING Favorite Bridal/Formal Wear Linen Jolie Runners Up The Bridal Boutique By MaeMe & Tuxedos to Go
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