Summer 2008 What's Your Plan?

Mom, I‘m Bored, What Do I Do?

As the summer months are approaching and schools are closing for the summer vacation, families are struggling with “what to do this summer”. Gas is expensive and funds are not always available. Moms are just waiting to hear those proverbial words “I’m bored, what are we going to do”? Those are the same words that kids have spoken for many years, and as grandparents are wont to say “your children should only be like you, so you will see what it is like”. Those may be the truest words spoken, albeit not meant in a threatening manner but one of “you will get yours some day”. So, what do we do this summer? How could we keep the kids busy, out of mom’s hair, yet doing things that they will like and be educational?

Some of the things we could do are:

Check out the museums- they have summer schedules just for kids and set up special exhibits that kids will enjoy and participate in;

Check out the local zoos- they also have schedules and shows conducive to children’s learning. They know how to keep the kids entertained and for how long.

Check out the movies – they schedule movies for kids during the early morning hours which give you afternoons to plan for.

Check out the water parks which are geared for not only kid fun but for family enjoyment.

If you happen to have a pool, first make sure all your kids and neighbor’s kids are “drown proofed’ which means that all the kids know how to swim, have had lessons, and know what to do in case of an emergency . Then once done, create some pool games or facilitate safe pool activities. Remember, to always have an adult present when kids are in the pool, which means that an adult is in the immediate pool area and sees everything that is happening. When finished, close the pool gate, so no one can get back in when your back is turned.

Other water games may use buckets, the hose, or for “older kids” water balloons.
Other ideas include gardening or planting vegetables or plants which the kids could measure and watch grow. It’s nice to be able to show something that was small and then got bigger. .

You can always invite your children’s friends over, have board games or just allow the kids to play in the back yard. Again remember, to always keep an eye on your children, because you never know where they can go to or what they can do, when you are not available.

Cooking or baking is another area where kids and adults can have fun. Too many parents never allow the children into the kitchen or made cooking so difficult or negative that kids who have become adults have no idea of how to navigate the kitchen. We need to make cooking and baking fun, for all to enjoy. Yes mom, cooking and baking can be enjoyable.


Parents can look at websites or at the internet to get any number of ideas of what to do this summer. Hopefully, you will miss the “Mommy, I’m bored” response and hear the Mom, I’m tired.

Have a safe, educational and wonderful summer.

SUBMITTED BY:
Howard Chusid, M.S. Ed. is an experienced Career Counselor. He has the training and experience to give Career Assessments such as the Strong, MBTI, SDS and others. He is also a Registered Mental Health Intern and a member of the National Career Development Association, American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association. Visit the website at www.professionalcareerstrategiesfl.com

Mystic Pointe

Click the links below to search the Mystic Pointe condos for sale

Mystic Pointe 100
Mystic Pointe 200
Mystic Pointe 300
Mystic Pointe 400
Mystic Pointe 500
Mystic Pointe 600

Mystic Pointe is a great condo community in Aventura, FL. These apartments in Mystic Pointe are located right off the Aventura South Eastern corner of the walking circle. In order to enter Mystic Pointe you have to wait on line to get clearance from the security booth. Then once you get to the Mystic Pointe tower of your choice you must check in with the security in the lobby. Mysitc Pointe is a very secure condo community and luxurious at the same time.



The Mystic Pointe apartment buildings consist of several towers - Mystic Pointe 100, Mystic Pointe 200, Mystic Pointe 300, Mystic Pointe 400, Mystic Pointe 500, and Mystic Pointe 600. Towers 100 - 600 make up the Mystic Pointe condo community. If you are searching for condos for sale in Mystic Pointe, then you came to the right website. There are many apartments for sale in Mystic Pointe, you just have to find the right building and the unit that fits your needs. There are many buyers looking to live in Mystic Pointe and instead of typing into Google "Mystic Pointe," people write "Mystic Point." There are many results for condos for sale in Mystic Point, so you're sure to find apartments for sale in Mystic Pointe when you write "apartments for sale in Mystic Point.



The best way to learn more about Mystic Pointe and view apartments in Mystic Pointe is to contact a Realtor in Mystic Pointe, Aventura Fl. I'm a Realtor in Aventura and can assist you in your search for the perfect Mystic Pointe apartment. If you are trying to sell your condo in Mystic Pointe give me a call and I'll make sure your Mystic Pointe condo gets the exposure it needs. You need to pick the best listing agent in Mystic Pointe. If you found this article you can be sure that buyers will also find your Mystic Pointe condo for sale so you can get top dollar for your home in Mystic Pointe.

Driveway Pavers Boca Raton Homes

www.milanopavers.com

We hear so much about the recession these days but despite this fact, many people are continuing to improve their homes with new driveways, walkways, pool decks, patios, etc. Homeowners are either improving new homes they recently purchased or deciding to improve the home they are trying to sell. Many have just decided to stay in their home and make their back yard a special paradise. Milano Pavers came highly recommended as an authority in the area. They explained each aspect of their business.

Revitalizing your driveway and or pool deck is a quick and easy way to transform your home. There are many homes in Boca Raton that utilize professional pavers to design their front patio, driveway, pool and backyard. Homes in Boca Raton are not the only place you can find professional pavers installed to create impressive driveways. I took a look at pavers, driveways, and pool decks in Aventura, Boca Del Mar, Cooper City, Davie, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Golden Beach, Wilton Manors, and Wellington. The landscape is enchanced by a simple paver layout.

There are many things to consider before you start a Paver project. The most important is to be sure you are working with a licensed and insured company that has been in business for many years. You should visit their place of business to be sure that they are where they say, get referrals from them, and look at pictures of work they have completed. You also want to work with someone who is experienced in all different types of materials so that you can choose what would work right for you.

When choosing materials it is important to know that there are so many different options. It is important to work with someone that will be able to help you choose what would work best for your home regardless of it being located in Aventura, Boca Raton, Boca Del Mar, Cooper City, Davie, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Golden Beach, Wilton Manors, and Wellington. A professional can help you choose what color would enhance the color of your home and your roof, as you would never want these to clash. Colors that you pick should harmonize with the area. The color should not compete for attention with the color of your house. Usually choosing a color that is a few shades lighter than the color of your house can work, and the pavers should blend with the color of your roof.

There are many different shapes, sizes, colors and patterns from which to choose. The area of space you are working with will be important when picking your size and pattern. It is always a good idea to look at as many pictures as you can of different jobs. To look at these jobs in person is the best way for true color selection. It will give you a much better idea of how the pattern looks with the color and shapes.

People are becoming very creative with their backyards today. Installing new pool decking (where marble seems to be the most popular at this time) is just a start. The addition of waterfalls, special lighting effects and retaining walls are also popular remodeling projects. Homeowners are also installing patios with a fire pit along with freestanding seat walls around the perimeter to accommodate their friends and family. Homeowners that have decided to stay in their homes, and make their own paradise in the yards, have many different options.



Here are a few tips about how to lay pavers...

The pattern you use to lay the pavers, such as diagonal or in rows can create illusions such as widening a narrow space. Wide spaces can look narrower by running rectangular pavers the length of an area. When selecting Pavers, you should also consider the thickness for potential use. Using heavy Pavers, 2 3/8” for driveways, is preferable whereas you can use a 1” Paver for walkways and pool decks.

Clay Pavers

Brick pavers, or genuine clay paving bricks, have a timeless appeal that imparts an image of classic elegance to homes of any style -- from traditional to ultra-modern. In fact, many of the finest homes in America are graced with courtyards, terraces, garden paths and drives paved with brick. For those looking for sturdy, long lasting, quality pavers, Clay pavers may be just the solution. Clay pavers are only available in a brick shape but come in both 2" and 1" thicknesses, making them ideal for both driveway and patio applications. Clay pavers come in varying shades- from terra cotta to gold- as well as varying smooth and rough finishes. A wide variety of clay pavers are available, from ones that are made right here in Florida to Genuine Old Chicago clay pavers, as well as hand made pavers imported from Columbia. Clay pavers can be a nice alternative to concrete pavers for those looking for a more rustic feel to their outdoor area

Marble Pavers

This is the product for those searching for that one of a kind, natural look. Natural Stone Pavers are an elegant line of stone pavers that are the perfect finishing touch to any landscape. From walkways to pools, from patios to driveways, these pavers are a durable material from the walkways of old Europe Imported from traditional European marble quarries, the stones come in a variety of finishes that feature the characteristics unique to marble. Classic Stone Pavers are not only beautiful but are also durable. Bullnosed coping is also available in marble. In many cases they can be installed directly over top of the proposed surface. Because marble is a completely natural product, every piece is unique, each displaying its own color, shade, texture and veining. If an exceptionally distinctive look is what you are going for than this is the product for you.

Concrete Pavers

Finally! A solution to poured concrete, asphalt and Chattahoochee - the concrete Paver. This product is ideal for all outdoor settings from driveways and walkways to patios and pool decks. Because pavers are set in sand and are able to shift with earth movement and climate changes, the cracking usually associated with other surfaces is eliminated. Pavers are made of compacted concrete. They are interlocking, versatile, and come in many sizes, colors, shapes and patterns.

Advantages of Pavers and Natural Stones

Pavers and Natural Stones can be replaced if they should be become stained. Using concrete or asphalt will always leave you with an ugly patchwork mess unless you replace the entire surface. Pavers will not crack and they carry a long manufacturer and installation warranty.

Installing Concrete Pavers, Marble, Clay Brick, Coral or Man Made Stones - just to name a few - will increase your property value tremendously giving your home that special curb appeal. Pavers are an affordable luxury as they add a touch of elegance to any home at a fraction of the cost of flagstone or marble.

Real estate Agents confirm that a Paver (Marble or Brick) driveway adds more value to a home than concrete or asphalt. The same holds true for your pool deck, patio, or walkways. Take a look at these before and after photos and you'll agree.

Milano Pavers can service the needs of customers in Aventura, Boca Raton, Boca Del Mar, Cooper City, Davie, Deerfield Beach, Delray Beach, Palm Beach, Palm Beach Gardens, West Palm Beach, Pinecrest, Golden Beach, Wilton Manors, Wellington, and the surrounding areas.

Memorial Day - Star Spangled Banner

Slash plays...


Stevie Ray Vaughan plays...


Ted Nugent


Jimi Hendrix plays...


Bruce Springsteen plays...


Nirvana plays...


Marvin Gaye sings...

B.J. PENN vs. SEAN SHERK UFC FIGHT

Last night the UFC fights took place in Las Vegas. I was unable to fly out to Vegas to see the fights live, but some day I look forward to being able to make those trips. The main event was B.J. Penn vs. Sean Sherk, this was a title fight and all UFC fans were very excited for this bout. In case you missed it or you're not familiar with UFC, watch the videos below.

I included a great promo about the fight and each round.



The videos I posted yesterday were deleted. Try this video to see some of the fight...

Nnelp
by kancun

UFC 84: BJ Penn vs. Sean Sherk RD1
by villleee

UFC 84: BJ Penn vs. Sean Sherk RD2
by villleee

UFC 84: BJ Penn vs. Sean Sherk RD3
by villleee

UFC 84: BJ Penn vs. Sean Sherk RD4
by villleee

Progress of Glenn Fenster

Glenn A. Fenster
305-788-2761 voicemail
305-528-7854 cell
DestinyMaker4u@aol.com

www.destinymaker.org
NEWS RELEASE – For Immediate Release

05/23

Glenn Fenster has now traveled over 2300 miles. He has cleared the Colorado Rockies through snow and cold temperatures. He then went into the Canyons of Utah and Arizona.He crossed the desert in heat and wind. Fenster then traveled up the Pacific Coast Highway. From Venice Beach to San Francisco crossing the Golden Gate Bridge. Fenster biked along the Northern California Coast with temperatures close to 100. Into the Redwoods where trees shaded him from the continuing soaring heat. Now crossed into Oregon the direction will change slightly away from the coast passing through towns of Eugene, Salem and Portland.


WOW! RIGHT ON!

AMC AVENTURA MOVIES

Memorial Day weekend is the perfect time to go to the movies. I'm not a fan of going out to South Beach or Ft. Lauderdale during this holiday because the streets are packed with tourists and the traffic is out of control. That's why I recommend checking out a few movies. Here are some clips of recent releases.

Click here for Aventura movie times...

Batman - The Dark Knight AMC Aventura Mall Movie. Watch the trailer...

I'm so excited to see the new Batman, The Dark Knight



Mama Mia AMC Aventura Movie





Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal Skull



The Chronicles of Narnia: Prince Caspian




Speed Racer



Baby Mama

Gas Prices in Aventura

We all know that gas prices have been going up and are at record highs. It appears that fuel has finally hit the dreaded number for this year - $4.00 a gallon and headed to $5.00. Everyone is pissed when they have to fill up at the gas stations, nobody even looks at the pump to see the final cost - it's too painful. When the gas per gallon is the same as minimum wage, our country will likely have some sort of civil uprising.

I was at the gas station, in the Promenade Shops, and a couple was telling their kids that they couldn't go to the park on Sunday because gas is too expensive. The look on those kids faces depressed me. It's no joke, lives are changing based on the price of gas. I'm trying to drive less and car pool more or even walk locally. If you are in the financial position to fill up the car next to you filled with kids, do it. Who knows, maybe that family will now be able to make it to the park this weekend.

Here's a list of gas prices around Aventura and the 33180 area, click this link - cheap gas prices in Aventura Florida.

I'm not sure what the answer to this problem is, but I do know how to listen so email us your thoughts. Some say that hybrid cars and trucks will better the situation. Here's a clip from the article - read more on this topic.

"With an average savings of about $400 a year in gas, it will take you about seven years to break even.

For others, it's not about being mindful of money but being comfortable.

"It sucks that it's going up there, it's a need and I know a truck will eat more gas but that's the way I am."

Can hybrids bring you happiness? That's for you to decide but for this car buyer, it's a way to drive past dependence on gas leaving behind worries of watching the ever-escalating prices."

Property Maps Aventura FL.

PropertyMaps.com announced an affiliate partnership with Gustavo Blachman of Terrabella Realty LLC to represent parts of the Miami-Dade market, a national map-based online real estate search.

“We’ve just added Miami-Dade and the surrounding areas for a total of over 60,000 new properties and 500,000 property images. With Miami-Dade County being the most populous county in Florida our team is extremely pleased to add such a large region to our map as our national rollout continues,” said J. Matthew Beck, company founder and President.

PropertyMaps is a user-friendly, one-stop-shop Web site that allows consumers to quickly search the actual Multiple Listing Service (MLS) databases used by Realtors® nationwide by using popular mapping tools such as Google Maps, Google Earth, and Microsoft Virtual Earth.

PropertyMaps currently has 1.3 million listings and expects to reach 2.2 million by the end of June.

Tips for High School Students

We are excited to announce that Howard Chusid, Career Counselor, will be submitting posts to share his insight with our community. His work is sure to be a valuable addition to our blog. Mr. Chusid works with a wide range of individuals at various stages in their careers. In this first post, he shares some tips for the younger demographic of Aventura. Enjoy and please share it with those you believe will benefit.

Things to Consider for High School Juniors and Seniors

As the School Year is coming to a close, there are a number of important items that should not be forgotten!

For Juniors:

Start thinking about which colleges you want to compare and visit.
Take the SAT or ACT exams
Prepare questions for each school you which to attend and review with your college advisors.
Compare college expenses.

The worst mistake we make is to look at schools which may be academically suited but financially not. We need to have the discussion with parents, grandparents and all the funding sources of what is realistic and what is affordable. Additionally, start looking at financial aid resources. Complete the FAFSA-Your Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) and submit for financial aid consideration https://fafsa.ed.gov/

For Seniors:

Complete FAFSA https://fafsa.ed.gov/ and submit for financial aid consideration.
Review colleges that are interested in you, and schedule a visit.
Compare financial aid packages offered by different colleges.
Submit all forms as required.
Decide with parents what is affordable and what is not.
Review with college counselor which schools you are interested in attending.
Decide which school to attend and notify school.
Additionally, notify schools that you will not be attending. In this way, other applicants who are interested will be afforded an opportunity.
Review all financial aid packages, complete, sign and submit all required forms.
Check out the dorms if you are considering living on campus or apartments if you are considering living off campus. Start thinking about room mates, living costs and expenses.
Get ready to graduate and move on to the next step in your life pursuits.

Graduating feels great, enjoy the feeling and relax. Your life is just beginning.

Howard Chusid, M.S. Ed. is an experienced Career Counselor. He has the training and experience to give Career Assessments such as the Strong, MBTI, SDS and others. He is also a Registered Mental Health Intern and a member of the National Career Development Association, American Counseling Association and the American Psychological Association.

Visit the website at www.careerstrategiesfl.com