Issue link: http://hvparent.uberflip.com/i/1147810
4 Hudson Valley Parent n August 2019 Meet this month's cover kid Luke and his parents Debra and Christopher from Stormville. HVP: Luke was the winner of our Biggest Smile contest. What makes him smile? Debra & Christopher: Luke and his sister Olivia Rose have become quite the duo these days; playing together and getting into mischief. He also adores his Poppy who can always get him to smile! HVP: What are your hopes for your son as he grows up? D&C: We hope Luke continues to bring joy to those around him. Luke loves to know how things work and is always asking questions, so we suspect he'll be an engineer like his dad and Poppy. HVP: What makes Luke incredible? D&C: Luke lights up every room he walks into. He is funny, energetic and gives the best hugs! HVP: Incredible parents raise incredible kids. What makes you incredible parents? D&C: It takes a village! We are thankful for our parents and family who support us in everything we do. We are also rooted in our Catholic faith which guides our family. In this issue FEATURES 8 Me Time: Just for Women Easy, DIY projects our editor uses to make her house feel like a home. It's all about the personal touches! 12 Parenting flashback Hudson Valley Parent's director of consumer development compares growing up in the 90s and raising children today BY PAMELA PERRY 14 Does adding another child to your family seem overwhelming? How other mothers handled the nerves, challenges and sadness that comes with saying goodbye to your only child BY ILANA CHARETTE 17 Top ways to make the first day of school special Back-to-school traditions you will want to start with your kids this year BY LISA IANNUCCI 18 You only have 18 summers with your children… how will you spend them? Moms share the best ways to make lasting memories with your children before they head off to college BY ROXANNE FERBER 20 Meet 10 Incredible Kids ready to change the world Incredible parents raise Incredible Kids. See what moms have to say about their amazing children. Thanks to our sponsor, Children's Medical Group 22 Calendar End summer with a bang! Festivals and fairs you won't want to miss 25 Years & G r o w i ng ! 1994 - 20 19 OUR "BIGGEST SMILE" CONTEST WINNER!