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7525 STATE RD., STE. A, CINCINNATI, OH 45255 | 513-231-7755 | WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM | FEBRUARY 2025 VALENTINE’S DAY, THE BROOKS FAMILY WAY BRUSH - UP ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc. Turning Dinner Into a Celebration of Togetherness Valentine’s Day has always been special in our house, but over the years, it has evolved into something uniquely ours. For us, it’s less about grand romantic gestures and more about celebrating love as a family. Sure, when Jessica and I first got married, it was all about us — a cozy, candlelit dinner at home with chicken cordon bleu that Jessica taught herself to make just for the occasion. That dish quickly became a tradition, something we looked forward to every Feb. 14. But as our family grew, so did the way we celebrated.
Once we had kids, we decided to let them in on the fun. Valentine’s Day shifted from being just a romantic evening for two to a shared experience for the whole family. Jessica’s parents had a tradition of doing something special for their kids on Valentine’s Day, even if they had plans for a date night later. Her mom would whip up homemade chocolate eclairs and make the table look festive. Inspired by that, we started including the kids in our own traditions. Jessica would make her famous chicken cordon bleu, the kids would help set the table with candles and decorations, and we’d all sit down together for a special meal. Of course, life has a way of making adjustments necessary. With a growing family, preparing chicken cordon bleu for all of us became less practical — it’s a labor-intensive dish! We sometimes opt for takeout these days, but that doesn’t mean the evening is any less special. We still use our fancy dishes, light candles, and decorate the table to make it feel like a celebration. It’s less about what’s on the menu and more about the love we share as a family. We also love giving the kids little gifts — nothing extravagant, just small tokens like a chocolate rose or a cute teddy bear. It’s our way of showing them they’re loved and cherished. As for Jessica and me, we don’t exchange gifts. For us, it’s about spending time together, slowing down, and remembering why we fell in love in the first place. It’s a chance to reflect on how far we’ve come and how much we still mean to each other. I’ll admit I’m a romantic at heart, but I’ve never been one for over-the-top gestures just because the calendar says so. Even when we were newlyweds, I preferred surprising Jessica with flowers on a random Tuesday when
she least expected it. To me, that feels more genuine. It’s not about the day — it’s about the thought behind it. When you give a gift or make a gesture just because someone was in your heart at that moment, it carries a different kind of weight. It’s spontaneous, heartfelt, and personal. That’s not to say I don’t admire people who go all out for Valentine’s Day. Fancy dinners, lavish gifts — I think it’s wonderful if that’s your thing. But for us, it’s about keeping things simple, thoughtful, and meaningful. Our family tries to celebrate love every day by cherishing the little moments, and Valentine’s Day gives us another opportunity to acknowledge that. Whether it’s a candlelit dinner at home, a surprise bouquet of flowers, or a quiet moment of gratitude, love doesn’t need to be flashy to be meaningful. That’s how we try to approach Valentine’s Day in the Brooks household — with thoughtful gestures, good food, and a focus on the people who matter most.
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A HEARTFELT CONNECTION WHY EVERY BRUSHING SESSION IS A STEP TOWARD A HEALTHIER HEART February isn’t just about Valentine’s Day — it’s also American Heart Month, a time to focus on heart health. But what if we told you the journey to a healthier heart might just begin with your smile? Research has revealed a fascinating connection between dental health and heart health, making oral hygiene more important than ever.
Watching your children transition into teenagers is a challenging experience for any parent. Your little girl has traded in her dolls for makeup, and your son would rather spend time with friends than throw a ball around the yard with you. As teens grow, parents have to adapt and adjust to the changes. It won’t always be easy, especially as arguments and disagreements may become more common. Still, you can make this situation easier on yourself by preparing for the changes and adopting helpful strategies. Here are three ways to maintain your relationship with your children as they progress through their teenage years. PROVIDE YOUR CHILDREN WITH NEW OPPORTUNITIES TO FIND THEIR PASSIONS. Your children are in the self-discovery stage of their lives, so it’s vital they get a chance to explore hobbies and activities that interest them. Ask them what they want to do with their free time, and enroll them in extracurricular activities that align with their interests. Be encouraging and supportive, and you’ll quickly see improvements in their mood and your relationship. BE OPEN-MINDED. Our children’s hobbies, interests, and even some personality traits can change as they progress through their teenage years. Be curious about their developing habits and try to involve yourself in activities they enjoy. This extends to discussions about their future. As adulthood approaches, talk with your kids about their career prospects and interests. They might have a different plan than you imagined, but this is when you need to be open-minded and supportive — it will strengthen your relationship immensely. UNDERSTAND THAT YOU WON’T SEE THEM AS OFTEN. The teenage years are when our kids start yearning for independence. As long as they’re staying out of trouble, let them explore the world around them. They’ll want to spend more time with their friends, visit places like the mall or movie theater without you, and explore romantic relationships. This is a normal part of growing up, and as parents, we should expect and respect the change. STAY CONNECTED DURING THEIR TRANSFORMATIVE YEARS THE TEENAGE TRANSITION
THE MOUTH-HEART CONNECTION Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the United States, claiming a life every 33 seconds. These staggering numbers remind us why heart health deserves our attention. But here’s the twist: Your mouth and heart are more closely connected than you might think.
Your mouth is home to millions of bacteria, and while not all are harmful, poor oral health can allow the bad ones to thrive. Gum disease, or periodontal
disease, is a prime culprit. Studies reveal that people with gum disease are 2–3 times more likely to experience a heart attack or stroke. Why? Bacteria in your mouth can enter your bloodstream, travel to your heart, and trigger inflammation — a key factor in cardiovascular disease. For older adults, this connection is particularly concerning. Many seniors already face chronic conditions like heart disease, and neglecting oral health can add fuel to the fire. IT’S ALL CONNECTED! Think of your body as a well-orchestrated symphony, with your heart playing the lead role. Every part of the circulatory system is interconnected, including your gums. Ignoring oral health isn’t just a dental issue — it’s a systemic risk. In fact, people with gum disease are 28% more likely to suffer a heart attack. Taking care of your mouth is taking care of your whole body. The good news? Protecting your heart can be as simple as maintaining a good oral hygiene routine. Brushing twice a day, flossing, and scheduling routine dental checkups help keep harmful bacteria at bay. It’s also vital to know if you have a history of heart issues or gum disease, so be sure to let your dentist and physician know so they can tailor your care. READY TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP? Your smile is more powerful than you think — it’s a gateway to better overall health. If you’re ready to give your heart and your teeth the care they deserve, we’re here to help. Contact our office today and take the first step toward a healthier, happier you!
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TEACHING KIDS TO STAY SAFE BEYOND STRANGER DANGER
One of the most winning qualities of little kids is their curiosity about the world and the people around them. A recent video of a winsome toddler starting conversations with adult shoppers at the grocery store drew more than 20 million views on TikTok. But if that curiosity leads a child to engage with strangers in public, is that still a good thing? The dire parental warnings against “stranger danger” of the 1980s and 1990s seem a little extreme today. Teaching kids to fear anyone they haven’t met isn’t healthy. Children need to develop social skills to talk with a doctor or a new teacher, order a meal, make new friends, or ask for help. Recently, parenting experts have begun promoting a more nuanced view of stranger danger. They encourage parents to teach children to recognize suspicious behavior and identify adults they can trust.
“Rather than issuing a blanket warning about stranger danger, allow children to talk with other adults in safe situations in public and observe them and provide real-life examples of what they need to know,” Reena Patel, a parenting expert, told Parents magazine. Patel urges parents to teach their children ground rules: Adults don’t ask children for help, so don’t respond to an adult stranger who does so, and trustworthy adults will not invite a child to leave a safe place to show them something or give them a gift. If your child is uncomfortable talking with a stranger, don’t require them to do so just for the sake of politeness. Patel says, “Some children are simply a little slower to open up to others, and they shouldn’t be labeled ‘shy’ just because of that temperamental trait. Support them in cutting off any conversation that makes them uncomfortable.”
Vegan Greek Sheet Pan Dinner
YOUR MONTHLY NEED-TO-KNOWS
INGREDIENTS
DIRECTIONS
WHO CREATED THE PERIODIC TABLE? Though some had tried to organize the elements before, Russian chemist Dmitri Mendeleev created what would later become the modern periodic table in 1869. Mendeleev arranged the elements based on their atomic weight and even left gaps for elements that had yet to be discovered. Even more impressive, he accurately predicted some of the properties of these unknown elements! CAN A SHARK SWIM BACKWARD? No, sharks cannot abruptly stop swimming or swim backward! This is because sharks’ pectoral fins cannot bend upward like other fish, forcing them to move only forward. If a shark needs to move backward, it will rely on gravity to fall back. WHICH PRESIDENT SERVED MORE THAN 2 CONSECUTIVE TERMS? President Franklin D. Roosevelt is the first and only president to have been elected for more than two consecutive terms, at a whopping four successive presidential terms! This was before the 22nd Amendment, which limits any president to just two terms in office.
1. Preheat oven to 400 F. In a small bowl, combine all seasoning ingredients, stir, and set aside. 2. Spread tofu, zucchini, pepper, onion, and tomatoes on a large, rimmed baking sheet. Drizzle seasoning over top and mix with your hands until everything is well coated. 3. Bake for 35–40 minutes, stirring halfway through, until everything is golden brown. Remove from the oven, then sprinkle with olives and vegan feta. 4. Serve with cooked rice, warm pita bread, vegan tzatziki, hummus, or chopped parsley.
Seasoning: •
3 tbsp olive oil
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1 lemon, juiced (about 3 tbsp) 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 1/2 tbsp dried oregano
1 tbsp dried basil
1 tbsp Dijon mustard
1 1/2 tsp salt
1 1/2 tsp black pepper
Veggies and Tofu: •
1 block extra-firm tofu, drained and diced
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1 medium zucchini, sliced
1 bell pepper (any color), sliced 1 medium red onion, sliced 1 pint cherry or grape tomatoes 1/2 cup pitted kalamata olives 1/4 cup vegan feta, crumbled
Inspired by ItDoesntTasteLikeChicken.com
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ANDERSON DENTAL CARE Nathan Brooks, DDS, Inc.
513-231-7755 WWW.ATOWNDENTAL.COM
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7525 STATE RD., STE. A CINCINNATI, OH 45255
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
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Simple Gestures That Make Valentine’s Day Meaningful Support Your Teenager’s Growth Without Losing Touch The Hidden Connection Between Dental Care and Heart Disease Prevention
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Street Smarts for Kids
Your Monthly Need-to-Knows
Vegan Greek Sheet Pan Dinner
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Fall in Love With February Fun in Cincinnati!
Dazzling Entertainment and Unique Experiences Await You This Month Cooking, Dancing, and Adventure!
‘THE WIZARD OF OZ’ BALLET Feb. 21–March 2 CBallet.org/2024-2025-season
February in Cincinnati is brimming with fun, creativity, and heartwarming experiences! Whether you’re looking for romance, inspiration, or a family adventure, February is the perfect time to explore the city and make unforgettable memories!
#LovelandHeartsAfire. Don’t miss this unique winter celebration filled with heartwarming memories and artistic wonders! ‘JULIA CHILD: A RECIPE FOR LIFE’ EXHIBIT Feb. 1–May 18 CincyMuseum.org/julia-child Step into the world of a culinary legend with “Julia Child: A Recipe for Life,” an immersive experience celebrating Julia’s remarkable journey from Paris to becoming an American icon. Explore an interactive re-creation of “The French Chef” studio, uncover secrets from her groundbreaking cookbook, and even read heartfelt fan letters expressing love for the talented chef. Julia’s passion for cooking empowered countless others and transformed American cuisine. Discover the insatiable curiosity and determination that made her a timeless inspiration for food lovers everywhere!
Embark on a magical journey with Septime Webre’s “The Wizard of Oz” ballet at Cincinnati Music Hall! Experience the classic tale like never before as Dorothy navigates the yellow brick road, encounters the Wicked Witch, and faces the thrilling antics of flying monkeys. Featuring dazzling special effects and exquisite sets, this production is brought to life with Matthew Pierce’s captivating music, performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Perfect for audiences of all ages, this spellbinding performance promises a heartwarming adventure that will transport you to the wondrous world of Oz.
HEARTS AFIRE WEEKEND Feb. 7–9 LovinLifeLoveland.com
Celebrate love and creativity at the 4th annual Hearts Afire Weekend in Loveland, the “Sweetheart of Ohio,” from Feb. 7–9. This Valentine’s Day festival promises dazzling fun with fire, ice, and love-inspired entertainment. Stroll through Historic Downtown Loveland on Saturday, Feb. 8, for a self-guided tour of incredible ice sculptures and catch live ice carving demos by professional sculptors. Snap “sculpture selfies” and share the love with
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