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AUGUST/SEPTEMBER 2024
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The start of a new school year is a bit like the first drop on a roller coaster. There’s anticipation, a hint of nerves, and that thrilling rush of embarking on something new. Having been through many “first days” with my kids, I’ve picked up a few tricks to ensure they (and I) start the year right. Here’s a sprinkle of fun and a pinch of parent wisdom to give your child the best possible launch into their new school year. Let’s kick things off with organization because, let’s be honest, a smooth morning starts the night before. About a week before school starts, we throw a family “organization party.” Yes, we make it a party! We crank up the tunes, bring snacks, and let everyone get involved. We clean out their backpacks (you’d be amazed at what I’ve found at the bottom of those), stock up on supplies, and set up a system where everything has a home. Having a designated spot for homework, a charging station for tablets and other devices, and a color-coded calendar for school events turns chaos into calm and makes planning a visual treat. Now, onto the unsung hero of school success: sleep. I’ve learned that starting the bedtime routine earlier than usual, about a week before school starts, really helps. Adjusting to a new sleep schedule can be challenging, so we ease into it with nightly wind- down activities everyone enjoys, like reading a chapter of a book together or playing a calm family game. No screens allowed — it’s incredible how quickly the kids drift off when devices aren’t part of the bedtime equation. Try Our Creative Tips for Happy, Organized Kids KICK OFF THE SCHOOL YEAR RIGHT
Mornings can be rough, but we’ve found a secret weapon we like to call our morning pump-up session. Every morning, before the day’s hustle begins, we blast a song we all love. It’s a few minutes of uninhibited dancing in the kitchen. Not only does it wake everyone up better than any alarm clock, but it also sends us all out the door with smiles on our faces. Who can have a bad day after grooving to some upbeat tunes? Along with morning routines, never underestimate the power of a good breakfast. We keep it simple but substantial. Oatmeal, fruit, and yogurt are staples. Sometimes, we prep breakfast burritos or overnight oats for a quick grab-and-go option. Having a healthy breakfast ready means one less decision in the morning rush. Finally, the little things can really make a difference. I write little notes on napkins and tuck them into lunch boxes — not just on the first day, but as often as I can throughout the year. It’s a small gesture, but it reminds my kids I’m thinking of them. We also have a first-day tradition where, after school, we go out for ice cream, no matter what. It gives them something to look forward to and provides a perfect opportunity to talk about their day. Starting the school year doesn’t have to be a dreaded event. With some preparation, a lot of sleep, and some morning fun, you can set the tone for a fantastic year.
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HARNESSING THE POWER OF A GROWTH MINDSET PSYCHOLOGY OF SUCCESS
Cultivating Success With a growth mindset, success plays second fiddle to self- improvement. Celebrating the effort we put into each task motivates and encourages us to work harder and accomplish more in the future. Rather than focusing on the destination, the focus is on the journey. A growth mindset is a great way to become more positive, successful, and adaptable. By incorporating more facets of a growth mindset into your life, you will be well on your way to changing things for the better.
While there are no treadmills for the mind or ellipticals for our neurons, science tells us that mental exercise can help us obtain a growth mindset. The American Psychological Association defines a growth mindset as “the belief that a person’s intelligence and abilities can grow and improve with practice.” A growth mindset is the antithesis of a “fixed mindset,” which people exhibit when they quickly give up if they can’t solve a problem. Nurturing a growth mindset, in contrast, can help you view failure or setbacks as opportunities for learning. More Than Effort Having a growth mindset is about more than just effort. It is the belief that you can develop your abilities and talents, as well as a perspective on how you approach life’s lessons and learning. That belief allows you to learn more quickly and achieve greater results, no matter what you aim to achieve. This does not mean simply having an open mind; it also means finding a way to continue striving to improve your knowledge, attitude, and performance. Some call it having “grit.”
Spud Stats WHY POTATOES DESERVE A PLACE ON YOUR PLATE
Are potatoes good for your health? Misconceptions abound about the humble spud, one of the most widely eaten foods in the world (third most popular, behind rice and wheat). So, why is this mighty tuber such a controversial topic — especially when the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization declared 2008 the International Year of the Potato? It’s time to praise the tater and recognize it as a budget-friendly and versatile nutrition powerhouse! Still unconvinced? Let’s look at some spud stats that might make you reconsider turning down those fries at second breakfast.
approximately 40% more than a banana. That’s great for nutrition, as this mineral is vital for many bodily functions. Not getting enough can cause problems for your nervous system, muscles, and heart. Full of Gut-Friendly Fiber Starches, often found in grains or potatoes, are long chains of glucose, and different types react in various ways in your body. Resistant starch, which potatoes contain, functions as a soluble fiber, which provides a range of benefits, including improved gut and insulin health, decreased blood sugar levels, and a whole host of other advantages that aid digestion. In other words, potatoes help keep you regular.
Packed With Vitamin C Did you know that one medium-sized baked potato has about 17 milligrams of vitamin C, roughly 35% of the recommended intake for a healthy adult? Between the 16th and 19th centuries, also known as the Age of Sail, potatoes were a vital ration for travelers at sea because vitamin C is essential for preventing scurvy.
Potatoes are more than a staple food and deserve more nutritional credit. With their high vitamin C, potassium, and fiber content, these budget-friendly and versatile sources of essential nutrition belong in any balanced diet. Just remember not to go overboard on the butter or cheese, and you can enjoy your spuds knowing you’re fueling your body well.
More Potassium Than a Banana A single medium-size russet potato has a whopping 610 milligrams of potassium,
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ENJOYABLE ACTIVITIES FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY EXPLORING THE FARMERS MARKET
Scavenging for Samples There is no shortage of variety regarding the fruits and vegetables offered at farmers markets. Engaging your family in a scavenger hunt to discover various produce among the local farmers’ stands is a great way to broaden their minds and keep them entertained. Plenty of farmers will offer you and your kids samples of their wares, allowing you to try before you buy. Growing Produce at Home After enjoying the farmers market, you may want to take what you learned home. Starting a small garden and growing starter plants with your kids is a great way to bond and create lasting memories. Growing and caring for plants and vegetables is a wonderful experience for children and helps them connect more with nature. Do yourself and your family a favor: Explore the farmers market and discover the flavor of your local area.
This time of year, we harvest fruits and vegetables in abundance, and farmers markets across the country are brimming with locally grown goods. Taking advantage of these wonderful events where local farmers and artisans sell the fruits of their labor is a great way to support local small businesses and explore all your area has to offer. Moreover, it is a perfect opportunity to share some wholesome fun with your family, as there are activities and attractions at farmers markets suitable for all ages. Learning Firsthand Your local farmers are a treasure trove of agricultural know-how. Many farmers will happily talk with you or your children about their favorite crop, what’s in season, and their recommendations for recipes that incorporate their produce. It’s a great way to grow your kids’ social skills and get them interested in gardening and farming.
Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad
“My biggest fear when I was charged with DUI was having to do jail time. I hired Houston & Alexander, and they worked on my case for about a year and a half. It was a long road with a bunch of court appearances, but they didn’t give up on me and eventually got my case reduced to reckless driving. No jail time! And I can keep my driver’s license. Thanks so much to the whole team for making this possible.” –Savannah H. 423-267-6715 | HoustonAlexander.com 3 What Our Clients Are Saying
Ingredients
Chicken • 3 tbsp olive oil
Corn and poblano salad • 2 tbsp olive oil • 2 poblano peppers, diced • 2 garlic cloves, minced • 1 14-oz can of corn • 4 scallions, minced • Juice of 2 limes • 1/3 cup chopped cilantro • Salt and pepper
• 1 cup all-purpose flour • 1 1/2 tsp garlic powder • 1/2 tsp cayenne pepper • 1 1/2 tsp salt • 3/4 tsp black pepper • Zest of 1 lime • 8 chicken thighs
Directions
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. 2. In a large oven-proof skillet, heat olive oil over medium heat.
3. In a bowl, whisk flour, spices, and lime zest. Dredge chicken in the mix to coat. 4. Add chicken, skin-side down, to skillet, then place skillet in the oven for 30–35 minutes. 5. In a medium skillet, heat olive oil and add poblanos. Sauté 4–5 minutes. Add garlic and sauté for another minute. 6. In a bowl, add poblano mix, corn, scallions, lime juice, and cilantro, toss and serve with the chicken.
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INSIDE THIS ISSUE Beat Back-to-School Blues With Our Go-To Routine The Role of a Growth Mindset in Overcoming Challenges A Closer Look at Potatoes’ Vital Role in Health Farmers Market Activities for Families Lime Chicken With Corn and Poblano Salad Testimonial Start the School Year Strong PAGE 1 PAGE 2 PAGE 2 PAGE 3 PAGE 3 PAGE 3 PAGE 4
BACK TO SCHOOL Tips for a Successful First Day of Class
Getting a Head Start According to research by the Center for Economic Security and Opportunity, students lose as much as 25%–30% of the knowledge they accumulated the previous school year over summer break. Reading and math skills are particularly affected and see the highest regression rate. And the higher the grade level, the more students are likely to forget. The best way to combat this summer slump is to keep learning. Reading books and practicing arithmetic at least three times a week will help kids maintain what they have previously worked so hard to learn. Shopping Spree Students also want to come to school prepared! Shopping for school supplies is a great way to get everything they need for the year ahead, including a snazzy new outfit for the first day, notebooks, organizers, and favorite brands of pens and pencils. It’s also important to write names in notebooks to make them easier to identify if they end up in the lost and found! Mental Map No one likes getting lost. Whether returning to the same school as last year or heading into a new environment, finding one’s way can be daunting. If your kids arrive at school early, they can figure out where each class is and plot a path beforehand. Getting a feel for where they need to go throughout the day can be a great way to help them feel more prepared and comfortable. Many schools also have physical maps, which can be a great resource to store in a backpack if they ever feel lost.
With summer break tragically ending (as it does, sadly, every year), it is time to get back in the groove and prepare for the new school year. If you want to help your kids get over the first-day jitters and start out strong, employ these tips to make their first day back at class so successful that others will want to study it.
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