406 Woman Vol. 10 No. 5 Business

406 contents featured 8. Megan Crawford Fresh Eyes, Alt Art 12. Machu Picchu Lost & Found

Business 18. I Want Her Job Dani Rylan 30. Edward Jones 38. Thrive!

Built for Pleasure

Profiles

24. Pamela Robertson Kalispell Regional Healthcare

Legal

34. Estate Tax Changes

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Non-profit 42. Changed Lives Cecilia Warricks

Health 26. Healthy Feet Part 2

28. Barbara Hall Reiki Master 40. Mountain Meadow Herbs 44. Health Literacy 46. Ask the Skin Coach 50. Fibromyalgia 52. Pilates 54. Healthy Smiles

Published by Skirts Publishing six times a year 704 C East 13th St. #138 Whitefish, MT 59937 info@406woman.com Copyright©2017 Skirts Publishing

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Megan Crawford

Fresh eyes, alt art

By Nancy Kimball

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Megan Crawford

King of the Wild Frontier. Gum bichromate. © Megan Crawford 2016

Look closer. Behind the sparkle in Megan Crawford’s eyes, the flitting playfulness at the corners of her mouth, there’s something elusive in this 22-year-old.

Listen carefully. Hear her talk, follow the unconventional photographer’s considered thoughts and you’ll catch it. There’s an old soul tucked in there.

Fitting, then, that this Columbia Falls artist for her body of photographic work reaches far beyond mere image-capturing and delves deep into conceptual art - uses 19th century printing techniques to convey her vision of the world. Her amalgam of legend and modern reality, altered landscapes and portraits dripping with history, all display a singular take on her surroundings in the 21st century.

Although articulate and bright, Megan’s printmaking is her language of choice. Through her exploration of gum bichromate and salted paper printing, which are some of the earliest techniques developed while photography was in its infancy, she has learned the vocabulary well.

TODAY THESE ARE CONSIDERED ALTERNATIVE printing techniques, but they harken back to the mainstream photos of her childhood in the ‘90s when she tagged along on her

photojournalist mom’s portraiture shoots in Orange County, California. When Megan and her mom hit the film processor to pick up the prints, the photo lab’s warm plastic odors imprinted themselves in the young girl’s memory.

“It was like Christmas morning every time we picked up film,” Megan said. “Sometimes there would be stuff that I would get to shoot as I got older … which was always exciting.” A family vacation to Yellowstone National Park, where the 8-year-old ventured across Mammoth Hot Springs with camera in hand, was her first memorable foray into prints.

“It was my little baby,” she said. “You had all this time put into this one thing and you had no idea what it looks like, but in your head you could see it. It’s just cool to see that come to fruition. I think with alt processes it was pretty much the same ... You start out with a blank piece of paper and you put it in a tray of chemistry, and all of a sudden it’s just there. I think there’s always been just a little bit of magic.”

Ten years after the Yellowstone trip, fate turned her trail to matriculation at Montana State University and, four years later, a Bachelor of Arts in film and photography with a minor in history. Now, at her family’s home outside Columbia Falls, she revels in the magic of her customized dimroom - a darkroom that isn’t quite light-tight. Alt processing capitalizes on the benefits of a little daylight to bring out all its glories.

LEARNING ON THE FLY, but only after indulging in her habit of girl-scout preparedness, Megan considers mistakes her welcome friends.

“Because I make a lot,” she laughed. “I figure that instead of just trying to get rid of them, embrace them. The first print I did for a project called Burn (which focused on landscape scars from the Reynolds Creek wildfire of 2015) was in a process called chromoskedasic sabbatier.”

The technique developed in the 1990s uses standard gelatin silver photographic paper, rather than the watercolor paper of her typical alt processing, and pulls the silver particles to the surface for a metallic appearance. She had to deal with a host of uncontrollable variables in the printing process. “I just guessed. I took it out into the room light and said ‘I don’t know what I’m doing,’ but it turned out. It was my favorite one of that project.”

Megan’s photographic interest had its genesis with her mom, but her voracious appetite for history incubated with her dad, a devoted “history rat.” Documentaries dominated their TV time. Megan’s high school history credits carried over to a college minor. She found it natural to marry photography with history.

This blend manifested in From Where They Came, a fictionalized family history she printed on salted paper for a college project.

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“[Salted paper] is one of the first photographic processes, and it was the primary process

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Megan Crawford Loops and Swift are Surer than Lead. Gum bichromate over salt. © Megan Crawford 2017

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used in Scotland, which is where I think the Crawford side is from,” she said.

“Sometimes it’s a matter of connecting concept and process, but also, since all of the processes I primarily do are historic, there is that little bit that ties in with the historic process and knowing the history and the time that these processes were around in their culture. It interweaves.”

IMMERSING HERSELF IN HISTORY books, articles, advertisements, museums, photographs and music of the era at hand, Megan works hard for truth. She developed an entire bagpipe playlist that filled the dimroom while she was printing, just to get herself in the mindset. “I tried to make the fictionalized history as authentic as possible and as believable as possible,” she said.

Guadalupe. Gum bichromate. © Megan Crawford 2017

dried pigment with gum arabic in a time-intensive process. “I learned a lot about who I am as a photographer and printmaker. That project explored the commodification of Native American cultures primarily in Western Montana, so I photographed on a lot of reservations.”

She found it sobering.

“To go and tackle a project like that, especially as someone who’s outside of that sphere - I’m not Native American - and how do you share someone else’s story, all of these cultures’ story, as someone who’s on the sidelines, as somebody who’s witnessed it? But that’s what I wanted to do,” Megan said, “go and show things as I’ve seen or I’ve heard or I’ve read.”

TODAY, WITH A COLLEGE EDUCATION under her camera strap and boundless energy and ambition at her fingertips, she’s pursuing a long-sought goal as a photographic artist. She has dreams, but she keeps both eyes wide open as she works to stay apace with the evolving field.

She doesn’t subsist on a steady diet of historical subjects, but blends in contemporary themes as well as a mix of the two.

“It’s kind of a little salad,” she said. In American Mythos, a take-off on Charlie Russell’s iconic paintings of the legendary Old West, she produced diptychs by pairing his art with her stark captures of modern-day scenes of the New West. An extended visit to the Little Bighorn Battlefield elicited a need in Megan to lay bare today’s trivialization of Native American culture as well as the historical truth of the battle.

That trip to Little Bighorn was folded into her first thesis, Land of Origin, carried out in gum bichromate processing. She counts it as her most significant artistic growth experience.

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“I used natural mineral pigments that were powdered instead of using watercolor from a tube,” she said. Using mortar and pestle, she mixed the

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“There are not enough Indians in the world to defeat the Seventh Calvary” —Custer. © Megan Crawford 2016

profile} Megan’s darkroom apron bears witness to this pragmatic bent. Beneath its swipes of pigment is a favorite quote, one that shows she already has tapped into a deep well plumbed

by Mexican painter Frida Kahlo more than a half-century ago: Nothing is absolute. Everything changes, everything moves, everything revolves, everything flies and goes away.

Megan’s work recently was in The Silos at Sawyer Yards Gallery in Houston, Texas, where two pieces from American Mythos were on display. She is featured in Salted Paper Printing, A Step by Step Manual Highlighting Contemporary Artists, a book by her former professor Christina Z. Anderson. Locally, her prints are available in The Shops at Station 8, located on U.S. 2 in Columbia Falls. Visit her website at meganlcrawford.com.

Boom Town. Gum bichromate. © Megan Crawford 2016

Megan Crawford

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Machu Picchu Lost & Found

By Jaymee Sire

The word “breathtaking” is used quite often when describing incredible sights, many of which sit right in our backyard here in Montana. But it’s never been more accurate than using it to describe Machu Picchu, Peru. A visit to the ancient Incan ruins will take your breath away in more ways than one. There is certain energy about the place that is hard to describe in words and photos, but I will do my best to show you why this place was so magical. store a majority of your luggage with the hotel while Cusco Your Machu Picchu adventure will start in Cusco you take just a daypack to Machu Picchu. We chose (sometimes spelled Cuzco.) The site was the Casa Cartageña as our home base in Cusco. historic capital of the Inca Empire until the 16th century Spanish conquest. It's located in the Andes, with an elevation of 11,200 feet. (For comparison, Bozeman’s elevation is 4,806.) You will most definitely experience shortness of breath, and some people actually get sick from the altitude. I recommend speaking with your physician, and ask about potentially getting a prescription of Diamox to help combat altitude sickness.

Getting there We used Avianca Airlines to make the one-hour flight from Lima to Cusco. Our outbound flight was actually delayed about 15 hours due to weather. For this reason, it's extremely important that you leave yourself a buffer day in Cusco. Not only will it allow you time to adjust to the altitude before tackling Machu Picchu, but also it will allow some flexibility in the event you have any travel issues. When Casa Cartageña is a beautiful little boutique hotel selecting seats, try to grab one by the window as you with a welcoming staff and top-notch service. will fly right over the Andes Mountains!

Upon arrival, you are greeted with Coca tea (made from coca leaves, and believed to help with altitude Where to stay: Casa Cartageña sickness), and fresh juice. Breakfast is included You will need to stay in Cusco on the front and back in your stay and includes an impressive spread end of your Machu Picchu adventure, and you will of breads, fruits, cheeses, hot dishes, with eggs &

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espresso drinks made to order. Each evening, the hotel offers a free happy hour, where we received a hands-on Pisco Sour lesson from the bartender and got to make our own drinks!

The rooms are also equipped with extra oxygen, should you need it, at an additional cost. We also took advantage of the spa on our final day, where we soaked in the hot tub and received heavenly massages.

Where to eat Perhaps my favorite meal in Cusco was lunch at Morena Peruvian Kitchen. The inside is modern, with a big mural painted on one of the walls as you enter. They call it a contemporary twist on Peruvian classics. I ordered the Andean trout grilled in anticuchera sauce (a spicy pepper sauce), served atop a bed of local potatoes (more than 4,000 different varieties grow in Peru), with mixed quinoa (another Peruvian staple), an avocado salsa criola, and an aji amarillo chimichurri. I washed it all down with... what else, but a Pisco Sour, the national drink of Peru. We also enjoyed our meal at Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse where we grilled our meat on hot rocks right at the table. We ordered steak, lamb and even alpaca (which sort of tasted like a mix of pork and lamb).

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Cooking class: Marcelo Batata Speaking of food, one of my favorite things to do while traveling is to take a cooking class in a foreign country. I found one in Cusco offered

by Marcelo Batata, the same owners as Uchu Peruvian Steakhouse. All of the ingredients are sourced through the restaurant, so we knew we were getting high quality food. We signed up for the one-hour ceviche class, which cost us about $30 USD. We learned how to make a tiraditio, a traditional ceviche, and also a vegetarian version, made with quinoa. Beer was included, and we enjoyed our culinary creations in the sunny little courtyard.

Machu Picchu But let's get to the main event. The real reason you come to Cusco, or Peru even, is to see Machu Picchu. It is considered one of the Seven Wonders of the Modern World, and if you have the opportunity to experience it, you will understand why. To witness the care and precision with which the Incas built this back in the 15th century on top of a mountain is truly incredible. And breathtaking. And awe inspiring. Basically any clichĂŠ you can think of, Machu Picchu is that. And then some.

Getting there: Peru Rail & Adios Adventure Travel We booked our entire Machu Picchu adventure through Adios Adventure Travel. This travel service takes care of most of the logistics, and they also provide your English-speaking guide for the trip. Starting a few weeks after we left, the Peruvian government now mandates that you tour Machu Picchu with a guide, meaning you may no longer enter on your own. (Not that I would want to anyways, as I would have no idea what I was looking at.)

To get to Machu Picchu from Cusco, you will need to first get to Ollantaytambo, which is where you catch the train that takes you into the Sacred Valley. As part of the package you book with Adios, they provide a private van transfer to the train

Machu Picchu

station and help with booking your rail tickets.

(We chose Peru Rail over Inca Rail because they are supposedly nicer trains.) You will either take this all the way into Aguas Calientes (the town at the base of Machu Picchu), or if you are doing the one-day hike, you will get off one stop prior at a designated mile marker and hike into the ruins, which will take most of a day.

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Machu Picchu

What to do: Take it all in Unless you are hiking into Machu Picchu, you must take a bus from Aguas Calientes to reach the entrance. A very bumpy, winding, hairpin turn road that might make you a little queasy, but totally worth it once you make it to the top. Our day one tour of Machu Picchu took most of the afternoon, but it didn't feel long at all. Our guide, Hubert, was very thorough and entertaining as he explained the history of this ancient citadel and pointed out interesting things, such as The King's quarters, The Temple of the Condor, and special carvings made to mimic the mountain range behind it. The attention to detail by the Incas was jaw dropping.

We opted not to do the five-hour hike on account of how much the elevation was affecting us, so we spent our second day in Machu Picchu hiking within the ancient ruins. We still got to hike on Inca trails (just not THE Inca trail). We walked down to a drawbridge built into a cliff and trekked all the way up to the Sun Gate (where we would have been entering the park from the full day hike). We ate lunch staring out at the gorgeous centuries-old civilization and at Hubert's request, took some time to meditate once reaching the Sun Gate.

Overall, it was still a very rewarding and beautiful day. That said, if you are in good shape and up for an adventure, I hear the hike is amazing, and if you

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are really feeling adventurous, there's also a fourday hike that bypasses train altogether.

Where to Stay: Waman Hotel Machu Picchu You don't really need anything fancy in Aguas Calientes, as you will most likely be staying just one night and you will be absolutely exhausted.

Something clean, simple and convenient is perfect, and we got that at the Waman Hotel. Your stay includes free breakfast, as well as a welcome drink in the bar upstairs that overlooks the little town.

Where to eat: The Tree House Restaurant Restaurants are a dime a dozen in Aquas Calientes, but I would not recommend just walking in anywhere. We did this upon arrival and ended up with a terrible lunch. We were a little smarter when it came to dinner and consulted both our tour guide and TripAdvisor. We ended up at Tree House Restaurant and had a very satisfying dinner that more than made up for our experience earlier in the day. You know that saying "so hungry I could eat a horse?" Well... I was so hungry I actually had alpaca again... this time in burger form and was delicious!

The Future of Machu Picchu There has been talk of more regulation at Machu Picchu, and perhaps shutting it down altogether in order to preserve the site, so my recommendation is to visit sooner rather than later.

Jaymee Sire

Jaymee grew up in North Central Montana and is an Emmy Award winning sports broadcaster, former ESPN SportsCenter anchor, and current floor reporter for Iron Chef Showdown on Food Network. She also writes a food and travel blog called “e is for eat.” (eisforeat.com)

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I Want Her Job

Dani Rylan

Commissioner, National Women’s Hockey League

By Brianne B. Perleberg

This article originally appeared on IWantHerJob.com.

This month the XXIII Olympic Winter Games will kick off in PyeongChang, South Korea. And with the games, new female role models and many young girl’s desires to participate in sports will emerge to the forefront of our culture once again.

Many of those female role models could very well be from the National Women’s Hockey League.

Now in its third season, the NWHL features four team franchises in Massachusetts, New York, Connecticut and New Jersey. It will boast a roster of former and current Olympians and a live streaming deal with Twitter.

And, at only 30 years old, Dani Rylan is the league’s face, founder and commissioner. And she’s not just any commissioner, she’s the youngest C-Suite holder in the sports world. She pounded thick cracks in the glass ceiling when she launched the first paid professional hockey league for women, and as you’ll read, she continues to invest in creating value not just for the NWHL, but for professional women’s sports everywhere.

“Right now I’m working to make sure that these women have the best job in the world – being a professional hockey player,” Dani says. “I have to make sure that I'm doing everything I can to make their dreams come true and keep their dreams alive.”

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With an attitude like that, it’s no wonder this gogetter was named to Fast Company’s 100 Most Creative People In Business and ESPN’s IMPACT 25. Read on to hear how Dani discovered hockey, how she started the league and where she sees the NWHL headed in the next five years.

Were you always interested in hockey?

I started skating in 1992, which was actually the Tampa Bay Lightning’s inaugural season in the NHL. They had a great grassroots initiative to get more kids involved in the game. I went to the rink with my brothers, put a pair of skates on and never looked back.

How did this passion for hockey lead to you starting the National Women’s Hockey League?

My hockey career brought me to Northeastern University where I finished my competitive career, as well as my Master’s degree in sports management. From a young age, I’ve had a passion for business as well as the sport of hockey. I came up with the idea for this league and one thing led to another, and before I knew it, it really started to take off. It was the perfect dream job to parlay my love of the game with an entrepreneurial spirit.

What is a typical day in your life like? How do you organize your day, and where is the majority of your energy focused?

There’s no such thing as a typical day. My day could be filled with a range of things. Sometimes

it’s putting out fires, and sometimes it’s going to a game and getting to watch the fastest game on earth being played by the best women in the world.

Right now, the focus is on cultivating the fan base and really building the strongest foundation for long-term success. Year one is all about proof of product and getting paid fans to walk through the door for the first time and fall in love with this special brand of hockey. And we did that. It was really the majority of our focus and our time spent – to commit to the atmosphere and the game, both on and off the ice. And we proved that.

There was an unbelievable fan base for women’s hockey that didn’t exist before. To watch that grow throughout the season was something that was really special, and we also saw it in the number of girls who started playing hockey for the first time.

USA Hockey saw its largest jump in growth since 2011, and their registration jumped almost 5%, which was pretty special.

What is your approach to business and growing the NWHL?

Starting the league was maybe the easiest part.

Really breaking through the glass ceiling is going to be the hard part. That’s what we’re focusing on now. We’ve had a lot of time to look back and see what worked, what didn’t work, really improve on it and really scale where sports have that opportunity, which is in the media, sponsorship and broadcast deals. Right now, less than half of 1% of all sponsorship dollars are invested in women’s sports. We’re looking to break that

“Right now I’m working to make sure that these women have the best job in the world – being a professional hockey player,” Dani says. “I have to make sure that I'm doing everything I can to make their dreams come true and keep their dreams alive.” business}

Dani Rylan

number alongside some of the bigger entities in the women’s game right now – like the women’s soccer team, Serena Williams and all of these other big players who are looking to do the same thing and prove that there is a business and there is entertainment in women’s sports.

As you see the league evolving over the next five years, where do you see it headed? What is your goal?

I really see it thriving. Fortunately for women’s hockey, it’s on the international stage every four years at the Olympics. The 2014 gold medal game was actually the most-watched event on NBC, and we anticipate it being just as big of a game with a larger fan base in the 2018 Olympics. We think that we’ll have a natural surge in our sport following that, obviously in addition to what we’re doing for the game right now. I think in the next 4-to-5 years, we will be expanding as we continue to prove that there is an amazing fan base for the sport.

As you’re building the team to help bring you to that goal, what qualities do you look for in those you hire?

A go-getter attitude is the No. 1 requirement to work here. At the end of the day, we are a startup.

Even though we’ve received amazing press and become a league, we are still a startup and everyone’s wearing multiple hats working and doing whatever we can to make this as successful as possible.

What advice do you have for other women who are looking to become the next Dani Rylan and grow something in the sports world?

Don’t be afraid to jump in. A lot of things you’ll learn as you go. I think that a lot of people – not just women – will feel that they’re underqualified or not in the best position to make the next step in business, whether it’s in sports or

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otherwise. Taking that first step, jumping in the deep end and learning to swim is the best way to get involved. Don’t be afraid to do that.

How do you maintain that “jump-in” attitude?

There are highs and lows, and I think a really important part of any business endeavor is surrounding yourself with the right people who can support you through the lows and ride the highs with you as well. Whenever there has been doubt, I’ve surrounded myself with a good group of colleagues and advisors who have been able to reassure the message.

What is some of the best advice you’ve received?

Take the bumps and bruises and wear them like badges of honor.

people who are on the list with me. But there really is a lot of work left to do, so I think I’ll be able to look back on those accomplishments later and be able to say, “Wow, we’ve really made it.”

But as long as my To Do list is still there and there are improvements to make, I don’t think I’m able to fully realize it.

Is there anything else you would like to add?

We are an extremely data-driven sport. And the data is something that’s becoming harder and harder to find in sports – especially women’s sports. We are dedicated to analyzing everything that we are building and the data we are pulling in. We are really building our story off of that and proving that there is a fan base not only for women’s hockey, but for women’s sports.

With this startup mentality and your hectic work schedule, how do you avoid burnout?

I get a lot of sleep, and I have a pretty good availability to start each day fresh without the troubles of yesterday.

What are some ways you recharge?

I skate every week in the city. Getting my aggression out on the ice is definitely advantageous for the rest of the week. I also have a dog, Tucker (a lab mix), and I’ll go on walks or runs with him. It’s calming. I’m also into gardening. I have a little backyard here in Brooklyn that I like to spend time in.

How does it feel to be recognized by Fast Company and ESPN for the work you are doing to change the lives of female athletes?

I don’t think it’s really sunk in yet, because I feel like there’s still so much work to do. It’s an honor to be on those lists, and it’s crazy to look at the

Brianne B. Perleberg

Brianne B. Perleberg, a born-and-raised Montanan, is the founder of I Want Her Job, an award-winning website featuring curated career conversations with women changing the future of business.

She also is a marketing director at NASCAR track Phoenix Raceway. You can follow her on Twitter @ iwantherjob and read more interviews like this on iwantherjob.com.

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Pamela Robertson’s Path to President and CEO

By Mellody Sharpton Photos by J. Vigil Photography

When Pamela Robertson graduated from high school in Hampton, Virginia, the thought that she’d become the chief executive officer of a health system in northwest Montana was furthest from her mind.

“I didn’t know what I wanted to do when I finished high school. A friend of mine suggested I talk to his father, who was a radiologist at the hospital,” said Robertson.

“I did, and he told me to consider being a radiology technologist. So I enrolled in the radiology program there.”

That conversation launched Robertson’s career in health care at Hampton General Hospital where she received a certification as a radiology technologist from their School of Radiology Technology. She later attended Christopher Newport University and earned her master of business administration from the College of William & Mary.

Robertson assumed her first leadership role in 1992 when she accepted the position of director of cardiac, vascular and transplant services at Sentara Norfolk General Hospital, which is the regional referral center for Sentara Health System in Norfolk, Virginia. Over the course of the next 15 years, she took on additional leadership responsibilities, which culminated in her appointment as vice president of operations for Sentara Norfolk General Hospital.

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“Having had hands-on patient care experience has kept me grounded.

Kept me centered on what’s most important in the decisions I make.”

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In 2007 she was recruited to Spohn Health System in Corpus Christi, Texas, where she served in various executive roles including chief administrative officer, executive vice president and chief operating officer.

In 2010 she was named president and CEO of the sixhospital system where she led the organization in the development of a comprehensive strategic plan to improve the overall health of the community and transform the system of care by improving access and collaboration across the care continuum.

On September 15, 2017, she assumed the role of president and CEO of Kalispell Regional Healthcare, taking the helm of the largest health care system in the region. With nearly five months under her belt,

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Pamela Robertson

“I have a deep respect for our history and want to honor

that legacy while being a good

steward of all our resources. I’ve found especially in health care that we must always be able

to course correct based on the

changing health care landscape.” she has embraced the role with energy, focus and dedication. Robertson describes the tenants of her leadership style to include communication, transparency, accountability and collaboration. But she credits her effectiveness as a leader back to the experience she gained early in her career as a radiology technologist.

“Having had hands-on patient care experience has kept me grounded. Kept me centered on what’s most important in the decisions I make,” she said. “I had a very interesting path from radiology technologist to CEO. Because of that, and the fact that I’m a woman, I’d like to think I’m inspiring to others.”

According to a 2016 study by McKinsey & Company, women represent just 26 percent of hospital CEO positions despite holding 75 percent of health care jobs.

Women have played a significant role in the history of health care. Like many of the first hospitals in the United States, Kalispell Regional Medical Center was founded by Catholic nuns more than 100 years ago. These women did everything from clinical work to operations to administration. They were the first leaders in health care and shaped a path for women in the industry. At Kalispell

Regional Heathcare, women comprise one third of the executive leadership team and 70 percent of management level or higher positions.

Studies have demonstrated that organizations with gender-diversity within their leadership teams are more successful than those without. In today’s health care landscape, success is critical. Like many other CEOs in health systems across the nation, Robertson believes the health care landscape has created a future of both uncertainty and opportunity for organizations, including Kalispell Regional Healthcare, calling for them to be nimble and prepared for various scenarios, which could have consequences on financial sustainability. The most recent special session of the Montana Legislature, for example, resulted in a reduction of $6.6 million of Medicaid funding for KRH for 2018. Today’s health care leaders must respond by adapting, innovating and building solutions.

“I have a deep respect for our history and want to honor that legacy while being a good steward of all our resources. I’ve found especially in health care that we must always be able to course correct based on the changing health care landscape,” said Robertson.

“KRH has been on a steady growth trajectory.

We have three major construction projects underway — the KRMC Emergency Depart-

ment remodel, the Digestive Health Institute and the Montana Children’s Medical Center.

We’ll finish those projects and pause on construction for a while to allow us time to optimize our infrastructure.”

According to Robertson, KRH is poised to become an even greater value to the community because it’s a family of services, offering a full health care continuum.

Kalispell Regional Healthcare includes Kalispell Regional Medical Center, The HealthCenter, North Valley Hospital, Brendan House, Summit Medical Fitness Center, physician clinics and many other supporting health care services. She believes the key to sustainability, when navigating health care’s uncharted waters, is to leverage that “systemness,” by working together to create an integrated, collaborative, collegial health system.

“KRH is a wonderful gift to this community — from the medical staff to the employees to the board members to the volunteers. It is a community of people that come together with one thought, one mission, one mindset, to deliver the best health care they can to those we serve. It is special. It is unique,” said Robertson. “I feel unbelievably blessed to be here.”

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By Esther Barnes, DPM, FACFAS

Enjoy Healthy Feet this Winter

Part 2 of 2

Although our feet are most often covered in the winter, we still need to be diligent and protect them to avoid real long term injury. Last issue in Part 1, we addressed how to care and protect your feet from being cold, skier’s toe, Morton’s Neuroma, and blisters. We’ll continue with this issue reviewing other aliments to be aware of and additional suggestions on how to keep your feet healthy this winter.

Dry Skin & Cracked Heels

When the skin on the bottom of the feet and heels becomes too dry, it can split open, leaving painful cracks called fissures on your heels.

Those cracks may not only make it painful to walk, but can also lead to serious infections.

Cracks in the heels are generally caused by insufficient moisture. These cracks can become sore and may even bleed. Seriously dry feet can occur for a number of reasons, including: cold winter weather, not drinking enough water, not moisturizing your feet, taking very hot baths / showers or soaking in a hot bath for too long, using harsh drying soaps, or having diabetes.

The moisture of certain winter weather, like snow and sleet, can’t hide the fact that, overall, winter air is dry. This, matched with warm and dry indoor heating can cause major dry skin, especially on the heels of your feet. Dehydrated skin can lead to painful cracks that become difficult to heal, or sometimes can even become infected. To avoid scaly skin, make moisturizer your friend. Even if you don’t normally use foot creams during the rest of the year, winter is the time to start.

Use a gentle exfoliating foot scrub and apply lotion to your feet after your shower or bath to lock in moisture and soften your skin. If you are already dealing with heel cracks, absolutely do not pick, especially if you have diabetes, poor circulation, or other medical conditions that make you at risk for infection or poor healing, since aggravating a deep existing crack

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will open your body to bacterial infections. Instead, use a cream for intense dryness, avoid harsh soaps, wear materials that minimize friction, and increase your water intake. Drinking more water will lead to better-hydrated feet.

The damage to nerves in the feet from uncontrolled blood sugars that causes a numbness with diabetics can also cause increased dryness (sweat ducts have nerves, as well), so it is recommended that diabetics apply moisturizer at least twice a day, especially in the winter months. People with diabetes are even more likely to sustain an infection from cracked heels than non-diabetics. If you are diabetic, it is important to examine your feet frequently for signs of cracks or infection.

Be sure to see a podiatrist if your skin condition doesn’t improve, or immediately if you have any cracks that lead to bleeding or signs of infection (redness, swelling).

Chilblains

Chilblains are the painful inflammation of small blood vessels in your skin that occur in response to repeated exposure to cold, but not freezing, air. Also known as pernio, chilblains can result in itchy, red and at times swollen, spots on the skin. These skin changes can often be found on the toes and, more specifically, on bunions and calluses, where there is more pressure on the foot. If aggravated, they can become ulcers or cause infections, as the skin dries out and cracks.

Chilblains usually clear up within one to three weeks, especially if the weather gets warmer. You may have recurrences seasonally for years. Treatment involves protecting yourself from the cold and using lotions to ease the symptoms. Chilblains don't usually result in permanent injury. But the condition can lead to infection, which may cause severe damage if left untreated.

If you think you have a chilblain, you can use an antiitch lotion but, like doctors always say, don’t give in to the itch. Scratching will irritate the skin even more.

If you suffer from diabetes or have circulatory issues, see your podiatrist to minimize risks.

The best approach to chilblains is to avoid developing them by limiting your exposure to cold, dressing warmly and covering exposed skin. Let your feet warm up slowly so that your circulation can respond to the change in temperature in a healthy way.

Ingrown Toenails

Ingrown toenails, a condition in which the edge of the toenail curves or cuts into the surrounding skin, generally occur more frequently during the fall and winter months. With less freedom to move around, toes may become squished together inside your boots and heavy socks.

What can cause Ingrown nails? Sometimes you just inherit a nail shape from your parents where the sides are curving under. Sometimes it’s the shape of your foot - a worsening bunion deformity, for example, can force the nail into the toe and mold the nail into an ingrown. Tight shoes or even closed-toe shoes put

health} pressure on a thicker nail, so in the winter, a person who does not have any trouble with ingrown toenails in the summer may have a lot of trouble once she puts on closed-toe shoes.

This condition occurs most frequently in the big toe and may affect one or both sides of the nail. Initially it may only cause a little discomfort but as the nail grows deeper into the flesh the toe usually becomes infected and very painful. The skin becomes irritated, red, shiny, and swollen with a throbbing pain and the toe is painful to touch.

Avoid this painful downfall of winter by cutting and filing your toenails straight across. Don’t play with potential ingrown nails yourself, as this could lead to an even more painful infection. Your podiatrist can help you remove the ingrown toenail in a safe way to avoid any future issues. Also, select winter shoes with a roomy enough toe box to give your toes some personal space, but avoid shoes that are too big and which cause you to “slop around.”

Slips & Falls

Yes, It’s cold outside, but story hurrying! Take smaller and wellplanned steps. Big fast steps make it harder to find your balance if you feel yourself on uneasy ground. Slippery surfaces call for slow movements. Avoid wearing high heels outside. Flat shoes with slip resistant soles or boots are best.

When walking across ice or snow, be sure to take short, flat steps. Walk. Don’t run. Slowing down will decrease the chances of a slip and fall. Use walkways that have been salted or shoveled. Be aware of black ice—a thin, nearly invisible coating of ice caused when temperatures rise above freezing and quickly drop below freezing.

Peripheral neuropathy (nerve damage) adds to the risk of falling in people with diabetes by causing loss of sensation, numbness, and pain in the feet and legs, often resulting in a slower gait and poor balance that can worsen when walking on uneven surfaces. People with diabetes can experience wounds, skin breakdown, joint inflammation, or joint deformity, all of which can lead to instability when walking.

The right footwear is an important step to healthy and non-injured winter feet. Wear sturdy, nonslip footwear that fits properly; this will help you keep your balance, stay mobile, and avoid turning your ankles. Make sure your shoes have ankle support, a stable heel and outer soles with the traction necessary to go up against uneven surfaces. If you have shoes for certain special occasions that don’t provide these things, try an overshoe with a good grip. Shoes that fit also protect the skin on your feet by lowering your risk of developing small wounds that could become ulcers. If you have diabetes and loss of sensation or neuropathy in your feet, Medicare may cover the cost of therapeutic footwear.

Talk to your podiatrist about whether you qualify if you have diabetes.

Well-fitting shoes will minimize other foot health issues, which in itself will help keep you on your feet. Walking comfortably and without pain will let you walk normally and less at risk for slips.

Dr. Esther Barnes, DPM, FACAS

practices with Dr. Brent Haverstock at Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Clinic in Kalispell, where she enjoys treating all foot and ankle concerns. She is certified, in both Foot Surgery and Reconstructive Rearfoot / Ankle Surgery, by the American Board of Foot and Ankle Surgery.

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Agetting Healingto know Touch Barbara Hall

By Kay Burt Photos by Amanda Wilson Photography

There is power in the human touch, and most of us know this innately. When we are without words, an arm around the shoulder, a hug, a squeeze of the hand—the touch speak volumes. Miracles have been wrought in the “laying on of hands,” and science affirms that power: Infants die if deprived of human touch. Yet for all we know or think we know, there is a great deal more we don’t. Peaceful Health’s Barbara Hall has made it her life’s work to understand the power of touch and, through it, to promote healing, health and well-being.

Reiki is almost better experienced than explained. The practitioner, through a gentle and powerful touch, serves as a conduit of the universal energy that flows to the patient.

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Barbara is matter of fact as she recalls how she found her way into the healing arts. “For 12 years I was a stay-athome mom,” she remembers, “and then some bumps in the road moved me onto a career path. I realized then that I would have to go back to school.” Barbara turned to a local high school guidance counselor for advice, and he suggested that she look into occupational therapy. Barbara took his advice, graduating as a Certified Occupational Therapy Assistant (COTA) in 1996.

Occupational therapy, which Barbara defines as “returning people to their normal activities,” often centered on touch.

Especially with geriatric patients, Barbara could see that touch was essential to progress. Within that same time frame, she also became intrigued with holistic medicine, and when a colleague suggested she take a Reiki class, it seemed a natural sequence. Several years of study under a Reiki Master opened yet another path, and today Barbara’s Kalispell practice focuses on the arts of Reiki, Attunement and CranioSacral Therapy, all utilizing a form of touch.

Now a Reiki Master herself, Barbara is one of a relatively small number of practitioners in the United States. The ancient Japanese art is defined by its roots, “Rei” meaning Universal Higher Knowledge (“God” or “Source”) and “Ki” referencing the life energy force all around us. With Reiki that energy is conducted from practitioner to the patient, resulting in the state of equilibrium known as “homeostasis.”

Reiki is almost better experienced than explained. The practitioner, through a gentle and powerful touch, serves

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Barbara Hall

“The human body is amazing. When properly balanced, it is designed to heal itself. It’s a privilege and a blessing to be part of that process.”

as a conduit of the universal energy that flows to the patient. The patient settles and calms as stress levels drop, and the energy courses as it will to the part of the mind, body or spirit needing release. “The body lets go of things that no longer serve it,” as Barbara explains it. In addition to promoting relaxation, Reiki improves sleep, releases stress, clarifies inner focus, and ramps up the body’s healing response. And because it has no contraindications, Reiki may be used with traditional treatments such as chemo or radiation.

Barbara’s status as a Master of Reiki also allows her to teach. There are three levels of Reiki: First Degree, Second Degree and Master; within the Master Level, there are three additional gradations.

Barbara is certified to teach at all levels.

Once mastered, Reiki may be used to help oneself, others, animals and plants; with advanced training, it may even be practiced over a distance.

In addition to Reiki, Barbara practices both Attunement and CranioSacral Therapy. Attunement is a balancing of the body through adjustment of the energy field around the body. Energy is directed into the body’s seven endocrine glands by either non-touch or light with the objective of aligning body,

mind, heart and spirit. Once that balance is achieved, the patient experiences the inner calm needed for the body to heal. Barbara emphasizes that commitment to a course of treatment is critical for the healing to be successful. “Unbalanced energies usually masquerade as illness or disease and present themselves slowly, over a period of time,” she explains. It follows, then, that it will take time and patience to reverse the process. I recommend a minimum of three sessions to initiate the process.”

The third modality, CranioSacral Therapy, involves calibrating movement of the body’s cerebrospinal fluid along the spinal column.

(Spinal fluid bathes the spine from skull to sacrum; hence the term, “CranioSacral.”)

Through injury, trauma or stress, the flow of cerebrospinal fluid along the spinal column may be disrupted, resulting in a host of problems. Those include such ailments as headaches, TMJ, stress disorders, learning disabilities and even autism. Improving cerebrospinal flow invigorates the central nervous system, which in turn benefits organs, muscles, bones and tissues. The patient remains fully clothed during a therapy session, comfortably supine on an elevated massage table. Gentle pressure is then applied to head and torso by the practitioner to encourage proper, smooth movement of bones in the head and spine.

And though several treatments are required to attain optimum results, you won’t hear

many complaints: CranioSacral Therapy is incredibly relaxing. “I can’t think of a single patient that wants to get up from that table,” laughs Barbara.

The three modalities complement one other, and a session at Peaceful Healing may consist of one, two or all three. Barbara works intuitively with each patient, applying the therapies she feels are optimal. She also educates each patient after treatment.

“Helping people to help themselves is one of the best parts of what I do,” she remarks.

“I give each patient take-home techniques they can use and practice. I want them to be participants in the healing process.”

Barbara is passionate about helping others achieve peace, health and a sense of wellbeing, and she loves what she does. “The human body is amazing,” she concludes.

“When properly balanced, it is designed to heal itself. It’s a privilege and a blessing to be part of that process.”

Barbara may be reached at 406-270-7368 or by e-mail at peacefulhealth@gmail.com Peaceful Health is located at 347 2nd Avenue West in Kalispell. In addition to the modalities presently offered at Peaceful Health, Barbara is working towards certification in EFT (Emotional Freedom Techniques). Her year-long course of study focuses on healing emotional trauma through tapping and elocution.

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What Should You Do With Your Tax Refund?

You may not get much of a thrill from filing your taxes, but the process becomes much more enjoyable if you're expecting a refund. So, if one is headed your way, what should you do with the money?

The answer depends somewhat on the size of the refund. For the 2017 tax year, the average refund was about $2,760 – not a fortune, but big enough to make an impact in your life. Suppose, for example, that you invested this amount in a tax-deferred vehicle, such as a traditional IRA, and then did not add another penny to it for 30 years. At the end of that time, assuming a hypothetical 7 percent annual rate of return, you’d have slightly more than $21,000 – not enough, by itself, to allow you to move to a Caribbean island, but still a nice addition to your retirement income. (You will need to pay taxes on your withdrawals eventually, unless the money was invested in a Roth IRA, in which case withdrawals are tax-free, provided you meet certain conditions.)

Of course, you don’t have to wait 30 years before you see any benefits from your tax refund. If you did decide to put a $2,760 tax refund toward your IRA for 2018, you’d already have reached just over half the allowable contribution limit of $5,500. (If you’re 50 or older, the limit is $6,500.) By getting such a strong head start on funding your IRA for the year, you’ll give your money more time to grow. Also, if you’re going to “max out” on your IRA, your large initial payment will enable you to put in smaller monthly amounts than you might need to contribute otherwise.

While using your refund to help fund your IRA is a good move, it’s not the only one you can make.

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While using your refund to help fund your IRA is a good move, it’s not the only one you can make. Here are a few other possibilities:

Pay down some debt. At some time or another, most of

us probably feel we’re carrying too much debt. If you can use your tax refund to help reduce your monthly debt payments, you’ll improve your cash flow and possibly have more money available to invest for the future.

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Tax Refund

Build an emergency fund. If you needed a new furnace or major car repair, or faced any other large, unexpected expense, how would you pay for it? If you did not have the cash readily available, you might be forced to dip into your long-term investments. To help avoid this problem, you could create an emergency fund containing three to six months’ worth of living expenses, with the money kept in a liquid, low-risk account. Your tax refund could help build your emergency fund.

Look for other investment opportunities. If you have some gaps in your portfolio, or some opportunities to improve your overall diversification, you might want to use your tax refund to add some new investments. The more diversified your portfolio, the stronger your defense against market volatility that might primarily affect one particular asset class. (However, diversification, by itself, can’t protect against all losses or guarantee profits.)

Clearly, a tax refund gives you a chance to improve your overall financial picture. So take your time, evaluate your options and use the money wisely.

This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.

Pearl Galbraith's motto in life is to "be a voice; not an echo". Her goal is to inspire people to live rich, full lives personally, professionally and financially.

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2018 Changes

Impacting Estate Planning

By Kelly O’Brien, Attorney at Law

Christie and Roger had heard a lot about the changes made to the tax code for 2018. While they understood that changes in certain deductions and credits may impact their income tax, they were concerned about how the changes may impact their estate planning.

To better understand the impact on their estate and tax situation, Christie and Roger met with their estate planning attorney and CPA. Ultimately, they determined that their existing trust was sufficient to meet their needs, but they made some updates to ensure their estate plan allowed for flexibility in the event of a subsequent change to the estate tax exemption limits.

Christie and Roger had a revocable living trust in place and about five million dollars in assets, including several rental properties. At the time they created their trust they had a potential estate tax liability. As a result their trust was fairly complex and included several estate tax planning provisions. They heard that the estate tax exemption amount had increased in 2018 but were not sure to what level and what it meant for their personal situation.

They also decided to set up LLCs for their rental properties to protect their personal liability and take advantage of the updated tax provisions for pass through entities. Along with this they implemented a plan to begin making annual gifts to their children of certain assets over time, while keeping certain highly appreciated assets to distribute through their estate.

Their plan will allow Christie and Roger to take full advantage of the changes while remaining flexible for the future.

All of Christie and Roger’s rental properties were titled in their names, individually. At one point in time they considered transferring ownership of their rental properties into separate Limited Liability Companies (LLCs), but they never actually completed the process.

They also wanted to give some of these properties to their children, but where not sure if they should give them now or pass them on through their estate.

They heard that the changes in the law made it more beneficial to own assets in an LLC and wanted to take advantage of any updates that may reduce their overall taxes.

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Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017

On January 1, 2018, the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017 (TCJA) became effective. The Act makes significant updates to individual and corporate tax rates, eliminates or modifies many tax deductions and results in changes for estate and business planning.

Until such time that regulations are in place, the Internal Revenue Service and tax advisors are still sorting many of the details. Nonetheless there are some key updates that may impact estate planning.

For most people the changes will not have a lot of impact on estate planning, but still provides a good opportunity to review their estate plan.

Doubling of the Estate Tax Exemption

One of the most significant estate planning changes for 2018 is the doubling of estate tax exemption amount.

While for most people this change will not have a lot of impact on their estate planning, the doubling of the estate tax exemption is quite significant.

Beginning in 2018, the basic estate tax exemption amount increases to $10 million per individual with adjustments for inflation. The IRS has not yet released the inflation adjustment but it is expected that the 2018 exemption amount will be $11.2 million per individual and $22.4 million for a married couple.

Again, this change may not impact most people.

However, the change will greatly simplify estate planning for married couples with a combined estate of more than 10 million dollars. Without further congressional action in the meantime, on January 1, 2026, the estate tax exemption amount will revert to the 2017 exemption levels of $5.49 million per individual and $10.98 per married couple. With this in mind, it is important for families with assets exceeding $10 million to plan with flexibility. Often this includes the use of revocable living trusts with certain disclaimer or optional bypass trust provisions.

One of the most significant estate planning changes for 2018 is the doubling of estate tax exemption amount. While for most people this change will not have a lot of impact on their estate planning, the doubling of the estate tax exemption is quite significant.

Increased Gifting Opportunities

assessment and collection at the entity level rather than individual level. This means that if you have The lifetime gift tax exclusion amount also doubled assets in an existing LLC, S. Corp. or other pass for 2018. The lifetime gift tax exclusion amount is through entity, or if you are considering setting up total amount that you can gift during your lifetime a new pass through entity, you need to consider the without paying gift tax. The new lifetime gift new requirements. exemption amount mirrors the estate tax exemption amount with an expected adjusted exemption Practically speaking one of the most significant amount of $11.2 million per individual and $22.4 changes is the requirement to appoint a tax million for a married couple. representative for the entity. The tax representative With this in mind, it is a good opportunity for those families considering sizable gifting plans to utilize the additional tax-free gift amount while it is available. Since the lifetime gifting exemption is also subject to change it may be advantageous to make additional gifts while exemption amount is higher. By making gifts during your lifetime you can transfer wealth and thereby reducing the overall value of your estate and decreasing your taxable estate.

will be the point of contact for the entity in the event of an audit or other tax issue. This involves updating the operating agreement or partnership agreement to include the appointment of a tax representative. For smaller entities, with less than 100 partners or members, you may elect to opt out of these requirements. However, it is important to consult with your CPA to assist you in this process.

If you own a rental or investment property in your name individually, now is a good time to consider transferring your property to an LLC or other pass However, it is important to balance the advantages through entity. However, discuss this with your of lifetime giving with tax basis and estate planning CPA, attorney and tax advisors first to ensure it is considerations. For example, gifts made during your effective for your personal situation. lifetime will be transferred at your tax basis, or your cost. While distributions of assets through your Overall Considerations estate receive a “step-up” in basis equal to the fair market value of that asset upon death. With this The focus of this article is primarily on changes that in mind, if you are considering lifetime giving you may have an impact on estate planning. However, may want to save highly appreciated assets to pass TCJA made significant modifications to many other tax provisions including reductions in tax rates through your estate. and changes to many deductions and tax credits.

It is important to discuss these updates with your Changes for Pass Through Entities CPA and tax advisors to determine how the changes might impact your personal tax situation.

That May Impact Planning For individuals or families that have rental or investment properties as a part of their overall estate, like Christie and Roger, there are advantages to owning these assets through separate pass through entity such as an LLC. Ownership of investment properties through an LLC will provide additional liability protection as well as potential tax advantages.

TCJA changed the tax rate for pass through entities and provides a deduction of up to 20% on qualified business for business income that passes through to an entity to an individual. The modifications to the law and calculation can be quite complicated and are subject to certain limits and restrictions. For example, those with joint income over $315,000 are above the threshold amount and therefore subject to limitations. However, for most pass through entities this change results in a reduction of overall tax.

While Christie and Roger in the example above did not have to make significant estate planning changes, they did create LLCs for their investment property and reviewed their plan to ensure it was sufficiently flexible in the event of a change in the future.

Even if you think that the 2018 updates to the law may not apply to you, the key to any effective estate plan is flexibility, and regular review of your plan with your advisors. Discuss your estate and gift planning strategies with your attorney, CPA, financial planner, and other tax advisors as soon as possible to ensure you are making the most of your estate plan and gifting strategies.

If you have question regarding estate or business planning contact Kelly O’Brien, Measure, Sampsel, Sullivan & O’Brien, P.C. at (406) 752-6373 Another significant change in the law for pass www.measurelaw.com through entities is a change to the partnership This article is intended for educational and information audit rules. The update to the law provides for tax purposes only, it is not intended to act as legal advice.

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Woman, are Built for

You,

Pleasure!

Written by CrisMarie Campbell

You work hard, don’t you?

I bet you’re a busy woman, taking care of lots of competing priorities: work, family, your health, your home, and more. Most of my clients are, yet they, and I’m going to guess you, rarely prioritize pleasure in their lives.

Instead, I’m guessing you:

· Have a jam-packed schedule, running from one meeting to the next · Are goal-oriented and try to be efficient with your time · Get tons of things done – especially for other people (clients, family, friends) · Strive to exercise, eat organic, maybe even do yoga and/or meditation

But, what about joy, fun or pure pleasure?

I can relate. I’m driven, successful woman who’s made it in a man’s world. I became an Olympic athlete. At Boeing, I was the one women engineer out of eighty men in the 777 Flight Test Group (the most macho division of Boeing). I got my MBA and became a manager at Arthur Andersen, a high-powered consulting firm.

You may not be as severe as I am, but growing up I adopted a belief that men had all the power and were dangerous, and to survive I had be as good or better than men. I had to beat them at their own game.

Susan and I started thrive! inc. back in 2002, conducting two-day corporate off-sites with mostly male executives. I’d always introduce myself with my credentials. As if to say to the men in the room, “back off, don’t f*ck with me!”

I kept trying to accomplish enough so that I’d finally feel safe, but it never happened. I lived in a constant state of fight, flight or freeze, which caused me to compensate by working harder, trying to be perfect and efficient in order to fit the male model of work and success.

As a result, I had chronic fatigue, a back injury that would never heal, allergies, skin and gut issues. I was miserable. Something had to change, but I didn’t know what.

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Then a friend said to me, “You know, you can’t out masculine a male.”

What? Really?

She continued, “No, they are men. They’ll always have more masculine energy than you.”

It woke me up. I realized I’d been trying to be tougher than men to create safety around men.

Then she said, “As a female, connecting to your feminine essence is your greatest resource. It’ll give you energy because as a woman it is your primary energy.”

I didn’t have a clue what she was talking about. What I learned about being feminine growing up was it was weak, unproductive, and irrelevant, attributes to be dismissed. I worked hard to suppress my sensitive, emotional, and creative sides. No, I never wanted to be caught not being productive.

Since I am a woman, thinking this negatively about being a woman, generated a significant amount of self-hate inside me. I’m ashamed to admit it, but I even created my own misogyny. No wonder I was having all these health issues! You can’t hate yourself that much and not create physical manifestations of that hatred.

Makes perfect sense now, but I couldn’t see it then.

I don’t know what you grew up thinking about being a girl, a woman, or being feminine. Whatever it was, when you add in the cultural messages about what women ‘should’ be – sexy, beautiful, do-it-all, and have a 36-24-36 figure, you have a pretty limited playing field for what you’re supposed to be as a woman.

Masculine and Feminine Energy

All humans have both masculine and feminine energy within us, but the gender we are is our primary energy.

When you’re utilizing the opposite energy as your primary source (like I was), it’s like driving a Ferrari with the breaks on. You’re working against your natural energy source.

As women, we feel much more fulfillment, pleasure, and energy when we embrace our feminine essence as primary. Being feminine has much less to do with whether you wear make-up, the color pink, or have babies – unless those things help you experience your feminine energy. Instead, your feminine energy has much more to do with whether you’re in your body, feeling your feelings, and connected to people you care about.

Masculine energy is about drive, competition, and individual achievement. Feminine energy is about slow, collaboration and sensuality. Masculine energy lives in your upper part of the body, head, shoulders and arms.

Feminine energy lives in your lower abdomen, hips, and legs. It’s our connection to mother earth.

Below is a chart that describes and gives you a felt-sense of each of these energies within each of us.

Masculine Energy

Feminine Energy

Work harder, faster, better Logical thinking Seek individual achievement Be practical Don’t feel Single-pointed focus or goal Being strong and silent Focus on the individual, winning Profit is the goal Individual achievement Make things happen Father Sky

Prioritize connection, pleasure, and beauty Feeling, intuition and empathy Seek connection and community Be expressive Emotionally tuned in Multi-tasking, perceiving complexity Be vulnerable and expressive Focus on relationships, consensus building Connection is the goal Bring people along Allow things to unfold Mother Earth

Yang

Neither one of these energies is bad. Every human has both energies. Notice though, which one do you tend to identify as ‘good’ or ‘better’?

Frustrated, Resentful, and Doing Too Much

Yin

Try a Pleasure Experiment Remember, the rhythm of the feminine is slower and connected to the senses.

Our culture tends to have more appreciation for masculine energy, which is why so many of my female clients come to me feeling frustrated and resentful, because they’re doing too much.

Pleasure is about connecting to those senses: yummy smells, delicious tastes, the feeling of fascinating textures, melodic sounds, beholding beauty sights.

I work with them to stop measuring, driving, or judging themselves from a masculine point of view.

Which is what I hope to inspire you to do as well.

What can you do TODAY to introduce sensual experiences into your life?

You’re a woman. You can never out-masculine a male.

Recognize that your greatest resource is, and always will be, your feminine essence. Stop playing the game without using all your resources. Even if you’re actively competing in a man’s world, finding experiences that help you activate your feminine essence will be extremely helpful.

You’ll have a lot more fun if you start incorporating what’s innate to you. Plus, when you do access your feminine energy, your natural resources are going to increase, which means you’re going to glow more (without getting a facial). People will want to be around you.

How to Increase Your Magnetic Presence If you want to increase your magnetic presence, start by connecting to your pelvis, hips and legs. Rather than walking to your next meeting quickly with your head forward, your arms pumping and your legs straight – slow down.

“As a female, connecting to your feminine essence is your greatest resource. It’ll give you energy because as a woman it is your primary energy.” acts up when I’m trying to make things happen. As for my allergies, I used to be allergic to over 20 different things, now it’s only one!

Now, don’t think I am just dancing, painting and pleasure seeking. No, I still like and enjoy getting to some kick-ass businesses results. But instead of riding the brakes, I drive my Ferrari into the boardroom. I lead with my yin and can still utilize my yang!

I’d love to hear what you do to integrate your feminine essence and pleasure into your daily life! Reach out to me at crismarie@thriveinc.com.

What can you do on daily basis that will make your heart sing, your eyes dilate, your taste buds moan? If you’re struggling with what to do, try:

· Taking a bath using lavender mineral salts · Lighting a few candles in the office or using a diffuser with essential oils · Wearing something that feels silky against your skin · Soften the lights by using a lamp instead of florescent lighting · Giving yourself an evening foot massage with essential oils The key is to make your pleasure a priority for you.

Don’t expect it to happen from someone else. If you want to matter, you need to make yourself matter first.

As for Me

Feel your feet, connect to and be aware of the movement of your hips. Notice your juiciness, and how you feel when you arrive in the conference room.

I’ll bet a few more eyes notice you when you walk in.

You’ll even get a compliment or two on what you’re wearing.

When I started connecting with my hips, I took up dancing, acting, and painting. I started wearing bright, bold colors and decorating my house with the same.

I reconnected to my emotional expression and my sensitivity. Now, rather than seeing them as my biggest liability, I know that my emotions and sensitivity are two of my greatest gifts.

TRY IT! At the very least you’ll feel more juicy and alive!

My health turned around too! I have more energy, my skin and gut issues have cleared up, and my back only

CrisMarie Campbell and Susan Clarke are coaches, business consultants, speakers, and the authors of The Beauty of Conflict, available on Amazon or on www.thriveinc.com/beautyofconflict They work with professional women, small businesses, leaders and teams. Check out their services at www. thriveinc.com/services. Contact them to coach with you, consult with your business, or speak at your next event thrive@thriveinc.com or 406.730.2710. To learn more their website is: www.thriveinc.com.

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Mountain Meadow Herbs

Using herbs as medicine or a tonic to improve health is an ancient practice with changing attitudes and beliefs about its use. Historically, there were times when herbal medicine was highly respected and those well-versed in herbal remedies were honored members of the community. There were also very difficult times when one paid dearly for dabbling into what was believed to be the dark world of the demonicallyinspired use of healing herbs. Female herbalists were actually burned alive during the witch hunts of Medieval times.

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And then came the more recent snake oil years, where financial gain took a clear upper hand. The vulnerable and gullible were sold quack medicines that often contained little, if any, therapeutic ingredients or were dangerously poisonous in large doses. Rulings by the US government in the early- and mid-1900s largely put a stop to the sale of these.

A good example is the “Microbe Killer“ that German immigrant William Radam started selling throughout the United States in the 1880s. Mr. Radam’s product claimed to “Cure all Diseases,” and even embossed the promise on the glass bottle that held the miracle cure. In spite of Radam’s medicine being a therapeutically useless (and in large quantities, actively poisonous) diluted solution of sulfuric acid, colored with red wine, it was enormously successful when it comes to dollars and cents.

The positive attitude towards, and acceptance of, herbal remedies took a nose dive as a result of greed and lack of integrity. And, as a whole, America went on to build the modern medicine we

have today, largely ignoring the many benefits of a more natural approach to health.

We have come a long way since those days, and while we still, on rare occasion, hear accusations of making “snake oil”, the tone shifts immediately for anyone who will listen to what really inspired the work of our founder. (Read: A Mother’s Guide to Herbal Extracts: Saving Tristan).

Without a doubt, we all benefit from the tide driven by consumers wanting to have better health naturally, plus our shared positive experiences with natural remedies continues to change the way herbs and other dietary supplements are seen today.

Interestingly, the “millennials,” those born between 1982 and 2004, are open and very interested in natural healing. This generation is currently the largest consumer of natural remedies and dietary supplements. And, of course, this bodes well for the future of natural healing and a more integrative approach to medicine.

Respecting herbal and natural

remedies is really the key to success. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of healing herbs we can benefit from. Perhaps even some yet to be discovered.

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herbal medicine

While we feel the acceptance of natural healing is beneficial for everyone, it’s important to note that respect of the remedy, whatever it may be, is not to be taken lightly. Some of the same precautions need to be taken when using a natural remedy as is necessary when using pharmaceuticals.

One day, we got a call at the office where a customer was asking if she could drink an entire 4 ounce bottle of the Gentle Birth Formula to bring on labor since she was past her due date. If you’re familiar with the product, you’ll know that a 4 oz. bottle should be consumed in multiple daily doses of ¼ tsp. in the 5 weeks leading up to one’s due date.

We were all admittedly horrified at the idea, but apparently a friend of the caller had done this, believing there could be no harm in it because, after all, it’s a natural product.

The caller stated that her friend had her baby within 24 hours of this massive dose. Her quick delivery was not shocking. In fact, we were surprised that it took even that long for the baby to make its appearance! The quick birth was likely uncomfortable for the mother, stressful for her provider, and traumatic for the baby.

While this is a bit of an extreme example, it is easy to think that because an herbal remedy is natural there is no harm in:

· Taking a lot of it (after all if a little is good, wouldn’t more be even better?) · Giving the remedy to a small child

· Taking the remedy while expecting or nursing Using natural remedies comes with a responsibility to use them wisely. And more, as in larger doses, is generally not better. In fact, taking small doses more often is a much wiser and more effective approach. For instance, small to moderate doses of an immune-boosting remedy every 2 hours is generally agreed by herbalists and natural health practitioners to be most effective when the onset of symptoms occurs.

Respecting herbal and natural remedies is really the key to success. There are hundreds, if not thousands, of healing herbs we can benefit from. Perhaps even some yet to be discovered. They all have their own specific health advantages and levels of safety. Gentle herbs like Echinacea, Chamomile, and Elderberry, just to name a few, are safe for even the newborn baby.

Others, like Goldenseal and Barberry pack a more powerful punch, and should be used cautiously or by older individuals, usually based on weight.

If you’ve been curious about herbal remedies, but don’t know where to start, or if you’re already enjoying their benefits, and know exactly what you want, we invite you to visit Mountain Meadow Herbs. Enjoy locally made extracts, produced fresh daily, and sold in effective formulas or as single extracts. We are natural health solutions you can trust!

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Changed lives

By Cecilia Warricks, age 16 as told to Mary Bryan

ADOPTION MADE A DIFFERENCE There are over 400,000 children in United States foster care. Almost 4,000 of them live in Montana.

These children aren’t bad. They’re not in foster care for anything they’ve done wrong, but instead, they’ve been abused, neglected, or abandoned by parents or guardians. They’ve experienced big loss and often bigger trauma. In other ways, they’re no different from kids who aren’t in foster care: they go to school, like to hang out with friends and need the love and stability a home and family typically provides.

I know all this because several years ago their story, was my story. Sometimes, you become an expert on something you’d rather not know about at all, let alone live through, but I count myself as blessed.

What I endured as a young child is a similar story for other kids, and I hope that sharing mine will give voice to theirs.

I was born in the middle of a cold Montana winter to a family that had interests other than raising healthy children. My family was immersed in alcohol and drug abuse. My earliest memories are that the only way to get my needs met was to take care of myself.

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Self-reliance was a natural, everyday occurrence. I had no help from my biological mother, and certainly not from my biological father. He bailed on us when I was only four. Even as a toddler, I would get up every day by myself, make my own food…usually snacks or Pop Tarts, and basically tried to just survive by myself.

I was living around people, but they just didn’t care.

There were lots of people in and out of the house, but they were people looking for drugs, or my moms boyfriends. I was in the way, like a mistake that no one knew how to fix or handle, so ignoring me was the solution. Getting high was more pressing.

When I started going to school I never knew who would come pick me up. It was stressful. I remember one day I was waiting to be picked up by someone in my family. That day I waited and waited. All the other kids were long gone. Teachers were keeping a worried eye on me. After a long hour had passed, my biological mother came crashing through the doorway. Even at just 5 or 6 years old, I knew what high looked like… and she was hardly able to talk to my teacher. I’m surprised I was allowed to leave with her.

My teachers always had suspicions that I was in a bad home, and I’m guessing they were the ones who called Child and Family Services many times. By the time I was 5, I had many “visits” from Child and Family

Service workers and Police Officers at my school and home. Funny how shortly after each visit we would move to a different house. My biological mother always told me to lie to them. I could answer any question they asked, as long as I didn’t tell anyone that my family was doing drugs and drinking.

When I was home I had freedom to do as I pleased because my biological mother was pretty much unavailable and checked out. Well, that is, I could do as I pleased unless my older teenage siblings intervened with ideas of their own. When all I really wanted was a relationship with my family, it was not the kind I craved. My eldest teenage sister would wrap me up with tape and lock me in a room when her friends came over. For no reason she would shove hot sauce down my throat. If I back talked her, I got a double dose. When I would try to go get a drink to stop the burning, she would put more hot sauce down my throat and lock me back in my room. One time when I was sick, she fed me cat litter mixed with oatmeal.

My older brother would tackle me when I didn’t do something he wanted me to. If he wasn’t knocking me over, he was engrossed in video games completely ignoring my existence.

When I was 7, the police came to take me out of my home. Now, what makes this story so ironic is I

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Child bridge

Family has totally changed my life and has given me a hope and purpose. was told my whole life to stay away from the police.

Whenever they would come to the many different houses we lived in, I would always run to my room, and be terrified of them. But that night I was removed, God blessed me with peace. This was a peace I still can’t exactly describe. I had never known that feeling while living there, or anywhere for that matter. I vividly remember my biological mother being tackled to the ground by one police officer, me being led out by another, and her yelling profanity and rude comments to the police as we walked past.

I was put in the back seat of a car and driven to a destination unknown. But I didn’t care. I was either numb or at peace. I didn’t know God then, but as I look back on it, I was being protected. The night of the car ride, I was taken to my grandparent’s house.

I stayed there for a couple of years until I met the family who really wanted me to be theirs, and who wanted to give themselves to me.

The day I met the Warricks I remember exactly what I was wearing, who was there, and even some of our conversation. I remember my new foster parents talking with my social worker in another room. My sister, Alicia and I, were talking with the Warricks three biological kids who they’d brought along to meet us. The oldest boy, Jonny, and I were talking about drawing and all of us kids were drawing on the white boards with markers. Alicia and the Warricks oldest daughter, Hailey, were drawing what looked like an apple tree and laughing a lot. When I first met Jacob, the youngest, he was kind of shy at first, but I remember how much he enjoyed playing hangman.

Our lives began to change that day. Not only was I going to have parents, but brothers and another sister too. I was 9 years old and Alicia was 11.

Transitioning into a new family was hard at first. I had more responsibilities, I had bad habits to break, and I sure didn’t like having people constantly worrying about me. I wasn’t used to having a mom or dad or people who wanted to take care of me and not hurt me. These were people who cared about how I was feeling, what I was doing, where I was going and who I was with. I struggled and had huge anger issues, but God blessed me with such an amazing family and over time the anger melted into love and compassion.

I think that all I ever really wanted in my life was to be shown kindness and love.

Everything the Warricks did for me, all their hard work of getting a room ready for me and my sister, their compassion and gentle joking around with me, really showed me how much they loved me. After we were with them for several months, they told me that the first day they met us that they knew we belonged to them and they would adopt us. It didn’t take me long to call them mom and dad.

Family has totally changed my life and has given me a hope and purpose. I want to succeed for them.

I do my best effort in everything I do, for them. I want to get married and have kids and raise a family doing the activities we are doing right now! I want

to share my love that my mom and dad and brothers and sister have planted in me with others. Because of them, I have love and compassion and know how to love and comfort others when they are hurting. Most importantly, because of this family and my adoption, I now have faith in God far greater than I could have ever imagined.

Child Bridge found my family for me and my sister, and we were adopted by the Warricks in 2012. Child Bridge is working on behalf of many other Montana kids who don’t have permanent families yet. I’m living proof that, when necessary, adoption from foster care is so important. I can’t imagine what my life would be like without my family. I have plans for a hope and future. I want to go to college and maybe have a career helping other people. If you’re contemplating fostering or adopting, please contact Child Bridge.

Please be a person with arms open to a child in need, because you just might save their life. For more information contact info@childbridgemontana.org.

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Health Literacy

By Kimberley Forthofer

It has been estimated that 9 out of 10 Americans do not grasp a full understanding of the information given to them during their health care visits. This can include instructions on taking a medication, information about their diagnosis, treatment recommendations, and plans for managing their health. Think of the devastating consequences that are possible from improperly taking a medication or not understanding the need for continued monitoring of a patients’ diabetes, high blood pressure, or other chronic health problem!

Health Literacy is defined as “the degree to which an individual has the capacity to obtain, communicate, process, and understand basic health information and services to make appropriate health decisions” (The Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act of 2010, Title V ). Health care is a partnership between patient and provider, and every effort should be made between the individual and the professional to make sure that there is understanding of the information conveyed to one another. There can

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be several factors that contribute to inadequate health literacy. However, there are ways to improve the time spent in your doctor’s office to make sure you and your health care professional make the most of your visit.

Ask questions

It is essential to ask questions of your health care professional. If you do not understand the information that is given to you, ask questions or better yet, ask that the information be written down. There are reputable websites that are free and easily accessible to you or your provider, an example is Medline Plus Health Information Library (www.medlineplus.gov). From here you can print information about health conditions, lab tests and more. Additionally, the website offers videos and information that can be listened to rather than read. Your health care provider should strive to give you information in as simple of terms as possible, thoroughly explaining complicated terms, lab tests or results and procedures in ways that you are able to fully understand.

Write things down

Bring a list of the current medications, vitamins and supplements you take to your doctor appointment. Having a pen and paper handy during your appointment is valuable for jotting

down questions and writing down information as you and the provider talk. Ideally, having an accompanying adult can help to alleviate stress, be a second set of ears to hear instructions, and to ask the questions that perhaps wouldn’t otherwise be asked. This can lead to a more thorough understanding of the information provided by the practitioner.

During College, I had an excellent professor who taught us to go through our patients’ medications one-by-one and advised us to state the medication to the person and ask why they take the medication. For example, the Nurse Practitioner asks: “I see you take Metformin. Can you tell me what you take this for?” Oftentimes, the patient can’t remember why they take the medication or when it was first administered. We as health care professionals must do a better job of educating our patients on the medications they take and why they take them. As people age the natural risk of disease increases, older individuals in turn have higher rates of polypharmacy (use of multiple medications at once) and are at higher risk for adverse reactions related to improper medication use. Our health care and insurance systems are dynamic and are becoming increasingly complicated. This places older individuals at higher risk for health complications as they often have the highest health demands compounded

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We as health care professionals must do a better job of educating our patients on the medications they take and why they take them.

by difficulty understanding or managing their complex health conditions. This is why it’s important to list all the medications you take and to be honest with your provider about your health history.

Since February can be known as the month of love and relationships, I felt that this was a fitting subject.

We should take care of and love ourselves by assuring that we are our best advocate when it comes to our health. So, ask questions, be involved in the discussion, and know that you and your health care provider are working together towards a mutual goal -- your overall health.

Kimberley Forthofer, ARNP joined Kalispell OB/GYN in July of 2013. Kimberly earned her Bachelor of Science in Exercise Science from Montana State University and worked as Physical Therapy Aide and Athletic Trainer before returning to school and earning her Master of Science in Nursing from Pacific Lutheran University. She offers a wide range of experience in primary care as well as women’s health.

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ask the skin coach

do you pick at your skin?

By Erin Blair, Licensed Esthetician + Certified Health Coach

As an acne specialist, the clients I see have usually picked at their skin to some degree. For some, though, this crosses the line from a mild desire to end a blemish to a much more serious psychological issue. Obsessive skin picking can lead to infection, disfigured scarring, and social isolation. If you’re a picker, how can you know if you have a problem, and to what degree?

Breaking the skin picking habit

First, identify the reasons and ways you pick.

Most would agree that they want the blemish to clear up faster, right? If that’s you, just know that picking will only make the problem worse and slower to heal. Applying my technique of icing the zit, followed by a medicated spot treatment will speed up the healing process. I also like targeted blue light LED therapy for clearing blemishes at home.

Do you pick in front of the mirror? Put ‘NO PICKING’ notes on the mirror where you’ll see them, and wash your face in the dark. Wear medical gloves so you don’t feel every little bump. Do you pick in front of the TV? Wear cotton gloves so when your fingers touch your

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face, you’re alerted to the unconscious picking.

Picking out of stress? Get a rubber squeeze ball or fidget spinner to keep your hands busy.

Ask your friends and family to help keep you accountable if they see you picking.

Many times, simply recognizing why and when you pick and coming up with an alternate behavior to employ in those moments is all it takes. Of course, having a skin care plan to get clear and have nothing left to pick is also pretty critical. Knowing you’re finally on the right track with your skin regimen can be quite empowering. However, some will pick mercilessly at imaginary blemishes and bumps.

In those cases, it’s a deeper issue that may require a mental health professional.

Signs you may have a skin picking disorder

Most simply, you probably feel out of control when picking at your skin. Someone with this disorder, known medically as dermatillomania or excoriation, often feels powerless to stop.

The condition has been categorized as a compulsive disorder. According to one online resource offering help with picking: Compulsive skin picking is closely related to several other compulsive disorders. Chief among these are other Body-Focused Repetitive Behaviors (BFRBs). BFRBs are compulsive disorders in which people can cause harm to themselves or to their physical appearance. Compulsive hair pulling (trichotillomania), severe and obsessive nail

Many times, simply recognizing why

and when you pick and coming up with an alternate behavior to employ in those moments is all it takes.

biting, and repetitive biting of the inside of the cheeks are all BFRBs as well. BFRBs are themselves closely related to OCD. In fact, some scientists categorize them as symptoms of OCD. However, most researchers make a clear distinction between the two, although they agree they are related. In fact, compulsive skin picking is classif ied independently in the DSM-V, in the category of "OCD and related disorders". It's off icial name is Excoriation Disorder. Most BFRBs occur for the same reasons. People with the behavior perform it when they are anxious, afraid, excited, or bored. Some people even feel that such behaviors are pleasurable. Most BFRBs eventually end up negatively affecting a person’s life, whether this is their work or their family and social relationships. All in all, skin picking is a compulsive disorder because it is a behavior that the patient feels like they have to do. They do not feel like they can stop, even though they want to, and often have an incredibly diff icult time making changes even when involved in treatments.1 I can help get your skin healthy and clear. But behavior therapies, and sometimes even medication is warranted for those with persistent skin picking disorders. If you recognize that you may have a more serious disorder, I encourage you to seek help from a qualified mental health professional to find the relief you deserve.

1

www.skinpick.com 1/22/18

Erin Blair, LE CHC owns Skin

Therapy Studio, where she embraces a creative method of treatments, products and coaching to get skin clear... and keep it that way. It's a 'whole person' approach to difficult skin concerns. Visit SkinTherapyStudio.com for more info, and to submit questions for Ask the Skin Coach.

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Sick & Tired Of Chronic Labels?

Understanding Fibromyalgia

By Dr. C. Claude Basler, DC, Basler Family Chiropractic

Fibromyalgia is gaining some popularity in our society.

While people might be exhibiting what they believe to be a symptom, it does not mean they should have a diagnosis or label. That can actually be said for a lot of things out there in the world. We have a tendency to over-diagnose people. Meaning we prescribe medicine for something that has not happened or will not happen for that matter. Have you ever stopped to break down what fibromyalgia really means? Do you actually know what you are treating? Stop, and listen to what your body is telling you.

Here is Fibromyalgia broken down:

Fibro – connective tissue. My- muscle.

Al – pain. Gia – condition.

Fibromyalgia is a string of Latin and Greek words used in combination to explain multiple symptoms.

Connective tissue is essentially a combination of various fibers classified as muscle. So, you could say that connective tissue is muscle and muscle is connective tissue. Another way to decipher fibromyalgia would be saying, Condition Of Muscle Pain. So, what we are treating with fibromyalgia medicine is basically muscle pain that does not subside, or “chronic muscle pain.”

Why Do You Have A Condition Of Muscle Pain?

Let’s first understand the body and bring the Central Nerve System (CNS) into the mix. This is just anatomy of the body 101, literally tip of the iceberg facts. The CNS constitutes your brain and your spine. The brain and spine made every part of your body while you were developing inutero. Every day the CNS has to regulate, control, and coordinate every action and experience that you make in life. For instance, what allows your heart to beat and supply the rest of your body with

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Some of the most common symptoms that are exhibited with patients who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia are muscle pain, painful tender points or trigger points, fatigue, and sleeping problems. Sound familiar? oxygenated blood? Answer = The CNS. How do you create movement with your feet to walk?

Answer = The CNS. Everything is regulated via your CNS. Have a bad experience in your life such as Condition Of Muscle Pain? Blame your CNS.

Fighting An Internal Battle

The CNS breaks itself down into two further systems: Parasympathetic vs. Sympathetic. Or more simply put, Relaxation vs. Fight or Flight.

When your body is not adapting or healing from something internally, the body triggers f ight or flight mode. While this is necessary during certain times, if it becomes an everyday occurrence and your body is not adapting, the body will actually get stuck in fight or flight mode. This in turn blocks sensation messages such as pain, numbness, aching, tightness, stiffness, etc. from going back to the brain.

Stuck Fighting Everyday

When a subluxation occurs in the spinal column, it places undo stress on the CNS. Immediately the body will trigger f ight of flight mode, yet you continue on with your everyday life. As f ight or flight mode continues uncorrected for years, the body becomes dysfunctional and begins to show the first signs of a subluxation. This begins with things such as high blood pressure, diverticulitis, infertility, irregular cycle…the symptoms go on.

Give me a symptom in the body and we will show you a nerve that is being irritated due to a subluxation. During this time when symptoms are appearing, the subluxation is not yet painful; the body is not recognizing pain messages. Your body

is still in f ight or flight mode and is protecting you from painful messages to the brain.

The very last symptoms that appear when a subluxation goes uncorrected for years will be muscle pain, painful tender points or trigger points, fatigue, and sleeping problems. When your body is stuck in f ight or flight mode for so long the adrenal glands start to crash and burn which means your entire body is being over-run. Superficial symptoms begin to manifest and appear.

Some of the most common symptoms that are exhibited with patients who are diagnosed with fibromyalgia are muscle pain, painful tender points or trigger points, fatigue, and sleeping problems.

Sound familiar?

Chiropractic Balances The Fight Or Flight Mode

It’s no coincidence that the symptoms for fibromyalgia are the same as they are for a neglected subluxation. Specific Chiropractic care focuses specifically and solely on the CNS. Chiropractors are trained to adjust specific subluxations within the spine to help alleviate the stress and tension that were put on the entire body.

Chiropractors do not “treat” or “cure” anything.

By adjusting and getting your spine checked, the body will adapt on its own and balance the f ight or flight mode. Muscles relax, tender points release, and your energy returns. Look toward the spine f irst for all answers.

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IT ALL STARTED WHEN...

By Delia Buckmaster, PMA®-CPT and bootybarre® Master Trainer

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I realized that Pilates was giving me strength, from the inside/out. I discovered Pilates in 2000 after regularly attending yoga classes. I was really intimidated by the challenging exercises but when I could visibly see the difference in my body, I was hooked. The inner strength part is hindsight. I had no idea that mindful movement would make such a positive impact on my life. Pilates would be my future.

What is mindful movement?

Mindful movement is exercise performed with awareness. It involves mental focus in order to train your body to move optimally through both athletic activities and everyday life. It's exercise that makes you move smarter. It’s not only Pilates. It can be any discipline that requires control, concentration, precision, and breathing technique, similar to the principles followed by Pilates teachers.

What do I mean by inner strength?

I would be the first to admit that I have struggled with low self-esteem. I’m human after all. Pilates made me feel accomplished, appreciated, and inspired. The exercises were designed as a tool to help lead us down the path of deeper self-awareness and ultimately to better health, as to be accountable for our own health and happiness. Pilates is about practicing exercises that give you a sense of mental and spiritual well-being, inevitably boosting your self-confidence.

What is Pilates?

Formerly called Contrology, Pilates is an innovative and safe system of mind-body exercise using a floor mat or a variety of equipment. It evolved from the principles of Joseph Pilates and can dramatically transform the way your body looks, feels, and performs. Pilates builds strength without excess bulk, capable of creating a sleek, toned body with slender thighs and a flat abdomen.

health} Why try it? Pilates conditions the whole body, even the ankles and feet.

No muscle group is over trained or under trained. Your entire musculature is evenly balanced and conditioned. By emphasizing proper breathing, correct spinal and pelvic alignment, and concentration on smooth, flowing movement, you become acutely in tune with your body. You actually learn how to control its movement.

Trust your “core”.

Research shows that exercise, both aerobic and anaerobic, positively affects levels of self-esteem through an increase in endorphins (happy hormone) and decrease in cortisol (stress-related hormone). I have no formal research on the effects of Pilates on the mind and heart. I can only trust the feeling of confidence after a great Pilates session and the connection between my mind and body.

As of March 2018, Exhale Pilates will be moving to 214 East Second Street, Whitefish, and will continue doing business as Delia Pilates®, a mindful movement studio. Our classes have one goal in

mind...results. We believe that our clients, with any level of experience, can strengthen their bodies through thoughtful and mindful practice. Let us guide you through movement rooted in the core to enhance flexibility, lengthen and define muscles, build strength, and improve physical and mental well-being. Visit our website at deliapilates.com.

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Say YES to Healthy Smiles Who’s ready for Summer? Dumb question perhaps? Even the bummiest of skiers can’t deny a longing for sunshine and warmth during a moment of winter weakness. Welcome to 2018 all you wonderful people. I set one goal for myself. You see, I have four young children ranging from 11 to 2 years old and I’ve decided to say YES more to them.

Not in a spoiled kind of way, just in the context of our Father-Child relationship.

For example, if my 5 year old son Maxwell asks me to build Legos with him, the answer is to put down my phone and say YES. If my 2 year old daughter Lennon wants me to read Llama Llama to her over and over again, the answer is to turn off the television and say YES...She is so dang adorable.

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The bonds made and the lessons taught within the walls of a child’s home are unbelievably important. What comes to your mind when you think of HOME? Is it a physical location, is it your family, a feeling, perhaps it’s a group of friends that when you’re in their company anywhere in the world would feel like Home? I’m sure it’s a complex combination of emotions that is unique to each of you. I hope it brings to mind positive reflections.

That is our goal as parents right? To provide a positive, loving, and supportive setting for our children to grow, learn, and develop. To teach them the rules to this complicated game of life.

Some of these rules are classified as healthy living and general hygiene, and a subset of these fall under Oral Hygiene. So I’m going to stop talking outside of my scope of knowledge and focus on the responsibilities we have as parents as it relates to the oral hygiene of our kids.

First off, we need to be actively involved in the brushing and flossing of our children’s teeth until they are 8 years of age. What does “actively” mean? Simple, you brush their teeth morning and night. If you can’t do that, you can’t get

by Dr. John F. Miller DDS

upset if they develop a cavity or two. Say YES to this active role. Unsure of the best techniques to use when brushing your kid’s teeth? I will post a video to the SMILE MONTANA DENTAL CENTER Facebook page demonstrating the nightly Miller teeth-brushing routine with Maxwell and Lennon. If you recall, they are 5 and 2 years old respectively.

Why is this active participation important? One, it reinforces the importance of oral hygiene and it keeps their baby teeth healthy. Premature loss of baby teeth will result in the shifting of the teeth and eruption pathways, leading to crowding and possible impaction (will not erupt) of the permanent teeth. Potentially altering a child’s smile and function for life if left uncorrected.

After a child turns 8 you can transition to a more passive role if your child demonstrates an acceptable understanding of brushing and flossing techniques. What does “passive” mean?

Not physically brushing their teeth for them, but making sure they are doing it. Make it part of your morning and evening rituals. Get up close and personal. Look at their teeth. Are they squeaking clean? Is there plaque and gunk

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Children need our help if their smiles are going to come out the tail end of their teens unscathed. It is so unfortunate that a couple bad years will have repercussions that last a

lifetime. It takes time and effort on

our part, but it will be worth it. Say

YES making oral hygiene a priority.

Say YES to regular visits to your child’s dental provider.

building up around their gums? Smell their breath if you think they’re pulling a fast one. Please consult with your child’s dentist and dental hygienist to determine if your child is ready to for this transition.

I also want you Mothers to realize that all of your child’s permanent teeth will arrive by approximately 12 years of age with the exception of the wisdom teeth. These children need our help if their smiles are going to come out the tail end of their teens unscathed. It is so unfortunate that a couple bad years will have repercussions that last a lifetime. It takes time and effort on our part, but it will be worth it. Say YES making oral hygiene a priority. Say YES to regular visits to your child’s dental provider. Say YES to #nobadyears.

I hear some version of the following sentence every day in my professional life, “I’m sorry for my mess of a mouth Doctor, my PARENTS did not teach me to take care of my teeth when I was younger.” Our kids are going to totally throw us under the bus. I have a sympathetic approach to my patients and I accept that we can’t change the past but can improve the future. I do not focus energy on playing the blame game.

I simply discuss with my patients what changes need to occur to ensure future oral health.

Look, If we are all lucky I only get to spend 10 minutes or so with your child every year examining their teeth. Even if I was the Socrates of Dentistry my 10 minutes of encouragement pales in comparison to the prevailing attitude towards oral hygiene in your own home. We need you to be our “woman on the inside” reinforcing great oral hygiene. Remember, you’re the parent and they are the child. You tell them what to do and not the other way around. It seems some of us forget this sometimes.

In closing Happy Valentine’s day to you all. During these long winters when we long for some sunshine we can offer our Flathead friends and neighbors the warmth of a big Montana Smile! I’ll show you mine if you show me yours ;).

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executive editor

Kristen Hamilton

kristen@hamitupstrategies.com

design

Sara Joy Pinnell

sara@mrsandmrpublishing.com

Havilland O’Briant

Havilland is grateful to have been raised in the Flathead Valley, and to call it her forever home.

After a year of extensive international travel following her graduation from Whitefish High School, she realized that nothing compares to the beauty of her Rocky-Mountain home. Havilland works as a yoga instructor and doula across the

Valley. She can be found chasing the sun may it be hiking, paddle boarding, snowshoeing, or skiing (most likely in Glacier) at every spare opportunity she gets.

Photo

by Cody Payne Photos (C o d y P a y n e . c o )

Business Girl

photographers

Daley McDaniel Photography Amanda Wilson Photography Alisia Dawn Photography Kelly Kirksey Photography Carrie Ann Photography Danella Miller Photography J. Vigil Photography Cody Payne Photos Mic, LLC Green Kat Photography

Published by Skirts Publishing six times a year 704 C East 13th St. #138 Whitefish, MT 59937 info@406woman.com Copyright©2018 Skirts Publishing

View current and past issues of 406 Woman at

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Pam Robertson

Pam Robertson assumed the role of president CEO of Kalispell Regional Healthcare in September of last year. She brings a wealth of experience to the position and the Flathead valley and

can only benefit in the future with her at the helm.

Want to know about great events, open houses, and more? Like us on Facebook at facebook.com/406 Woman 406 Woman is distributed in Bigfork, Columbia Falls, Kalispell, Missoula, Whitefish and every point in between.

Check out www.406woman.com for our full distribution list.

For Robertson’s full story and plan for the future, read Mellody Sharpton’s business feature.

Have a great story idea or know someone that we should feature? Email us with your comments & suggestions.

P h o t o b y J. V i g i l P h o t o g r ap h y ( w w w . jv i g i lp h o t o g r ap h y . c o m )

Interested in increasing your business and partnering with 406 Woman? Check out www.406woman.com.

Editor’s Note I’ve always loved the James Taylor song “Secret O’ Life.” Not only does he sing it beautifully but also he makes it seem like enjoying life is simple. Maybe it is. Maybe if we stop trying so hard, we’ll enjoy the lovely ride [of life].

As we are coming out of what I call the dark days … you know when we get up in the morning for work its dark and when we return home at the end of the day its dark again. I’ll be frank. My body never really gets used to it and this season under doctor’s orders I’ve even added a vitamin D supplement to my routine. It seemed to have worked or maybe it’s that I’ve decided to enjoy every little thing more. That and be very grateful everyday. That is my recipe for the secret of life.

Enjoy spring and the coming sunshine!

The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time.

Any fool can do it, there ain't nothing to it.

Nobody knows how we got to the top of the hill.

But since we're on our way down, we might as well enjoy the ride.

The secret of love is in opening up your heart.

It's okay to feel afraid, but don't let that stand in your way.

Cause anyone knows that love is the only road.

And since we're only here for a while, might as well show some style. Give us a smile.

Isn't it a lovely ride? Sliding down, gliding down, try not to try too hard, it's just a lovely ride.

Now the thing about time is that time isn't really real.

It's just your point of view, how does it feel for you?

Einstein said he could never understand it all.

Planets spinning through space, the smile upon your face, welcome to the human race.

Some kind of lovely ride. I'll be sliding down, I'll be gliding down.

Try not to try too hard, it's just a lovely ride.

Isn't it a lovely ride? Sliding down, gliding down, try not to try too hard, it's just a lovely ride.

The secret of life is enjoying the passage of time.

{

What you’ll find in this issue Cecilia’s life started out tragically with a family that never cared about her wellbeing but that all changed when she met the Warrick’s through Child Bridge and was given a chance at live and love. Read her amazing story on page 42.

Brianne B. Perleberg talks with Dani Rylan, founder and commissioner of the National Women’s Hockey League, who is helping to change the face of women’s sports. Read her story on page 18 in our Business & Health section.

{

Meet Amanda Wilson …

Our Talented 406 Contributors Dr. Esther Barnes, DPM, FACAS

Board certified foot and ankle specialist practicing at Step Ahead Foot & Ankle Clinic in Kalispell

C. Claude Basler, D.C.

Family chiropractor, allowing you to express your true potential

Erin Blair

Licensed esthetician and owner of Skin Therapy Studio

Delia Buckmaster

Top photo: Hiking Glacier National Park. Bottom photo: Riding the Going to the Sun Road with my husband in Glacier.

Founder of Exhale Pilates Whitefish & delia pilates™, PMA®-CPT, International Educator, bootybarre® master trainer, health coach, mom, Montana obsessed.

Kay Burt

Mother, grandmother, native Montanan, legal assistant – a woman whose life is blessed beyond measure

Cris Marie Campbell

Master certified Martha Beck coach and consultant, co-owner of Thrive! Inc.

Susan B Clarke

Faculty at The Haven Institute for 20 years and co-owner of Thrive! Inc.

Brian D’Ambrosio

Accomplished writer and newly published author of “Reservation Champ’

Kalispell OB/GYN Doctors & Practitioners

Board certified OB/GYN professional offering expert advice

Allison Linville

Community Relations Coordinator at North Valley Hospital

John Miller, DDS

Specializing in general dentistry, Dr Miller provides expert advice

Carole Morris

Instructional Specialist, Author and Adjunct Professor. The proud mom of two perfect children and grammie to three flawless grandchildren.

Kelly O’Brien, Esq.

Business law specialist with Measure Law Office, P.C.

Brianne Perleberg

Founder of I Want Her Job and marketing director at NASCAR track Phoenix Raceway.

Kristen Pulsifer

Writer, editor and owner of Whitefish Study Center

Karen Sanderson

Wine expert and owner of Brix Bottleshop in Kalispell

Dr Austine Siomos

A pediatric cardiologist at Rocky Mountain Heart & Lung plus a wife and mother

Jaymee Sire

Jaymee grew up in North Central Montana and is the current floor reporter for Iron Chef Showdown on Food Network. She also writes a food and travel blog called “e is for eat.” (eisforeat.com)

Mary Wallace

Mother of three and grandmother to two, is still trying to figure out what she wants to be when she grows up..

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For full bios for our contributors, please visit www.406woman.com.

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Profession: Photographer

Resides: In Kalispell Montana, for the past eight years. I grew up an Army brat so I never lived anywhere longer than three years. My husband’s career with the Park Service has also moved us several times. Montana is the first place I have ever felt completely at home.

Notable Accomplishments: I

started my photography business 12 years ago. I have had to restart and establish myself in four states, due to relocating for my husband’s job. I am always grateful for the photography business and opportunities that come my way. I enjoy meeting new people and love return clients because it means they trust me and like my work.

My workweek always includes:

Photo sessions, editing, client communications, and Pinterest - a great place for ideas and inspiration.

I am always on the lookout for new locations for shoots.

My favorite outdoor activity is: I can’t pick just one activity! I love to

be outdoors - running, hiking, road biking, fly-fishing in the warmer months, skiing in the winter. I spend a fair amount of time outdoors enjoying all that Montana has to offer! I feel lucky to have all these wonderful activities and places to explore and photograph out my backdoor!

When it comes to electronics, I can’t live without these apps on my iPhone: Garmin Connect - I use it every day to track my running

progress and Instagram- I love seeing all those beautiful images.

My bucket list includes doing this in the next year: I am running my fist half marathon in June. I’m excited to be doing this with views of one of my favorite places- Glacier National Park.

Copperleaf Chocolat

company

239 Central Ave. Whitefish Mt. 406-862-9659

Gifts You Would Love to Give locally made artisan chocolates, chocolate bars from around the world, time tested books & leather bound journals.

Artie Yellowhorse Native American Designer of Collectible Silver, Turquoise & Gems Jewelry Mary Frances Hand Beaded Embellished Handbags and Scarves.

Fabulous Cashmere Sweaters, One of a kind Copper and Enamel Pieces

by Swan Valley Copper Company and Vintage cowboy boots.

Creating a Bedroom You'll Love with the right styles and right mattress

By Wright’s Furniture

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design} If you're like most consumers shopping for a mattress, chances are you haven't been in the market for years. Many people have commented that mattresses seem difficult to shop for. To help make the process as easy as possible, we have done a few things at Wright's Furniture to help create a comfortable, stress-free shopping atmosphere.

· We have a large relaxing in-store Sleep Center. This area is separated from other products and features soothing music and softer lighting. · We feature an exclusive full line of American Made mattresses by Northwest Bedding. There are 15+ different mattress types and all price-points are always available. · A highly trained professional sales staff is ready to assist if needed.

BUT…before you visit our In-store sleep center, take a minute to read our Mattress Buying Guide to help achieve a stress-free mattress shopping experience:

mattress buying guide 1. Budget

Come up with a budget range for your mattress. Keep in mind that more expensive mattresses oftentimes will start out being more comfortable and will remain comfortable for a longer period of time than a modestly priced alternative.

2. Research Mattresses

Increase your comfort level by arming yourself with information.

Visit www.nwbedding.com for more mattress information.

3. Decide on size of the mattress

If two adults will be sleeping in the bed, a king size mattress is ideal if: 1) you can afford it, and 2) it will fit comfortably in your bedroom. The size of the bedroom really determines how big of a mattress you can get. Most bedrooms will accommodate a queen size. Cal King-72"X84", King-76"x80", Queen-60"x80", Full- 54"x74", TwinXL-38"x80", Twin-38"x74

4. Allow yourself enough time

On the day you go shopping, wear loose, comfortable clothing and allow 15-20 minutes per mattress tested. This will give your body enough time to relax and assume your normal sleep positions.

5. Try different types of mattresses

Lie down on a memory foam, a latex, a pocketed coil, and an innerspring mattress. You may find that, despite all the hype on TV and the Internet, a memory foam mattress is just not for you. Up to 50% of people claim it is too firm and they don’t like the sinking sensation. Even though that same hype denigrates innerspring products, the truth of the matter is that innerspring mattresses are generally more modestly priced and have greater air circulation and sleep cooler.

6. Determine firmness

When you've decided on the "type" of mattress that feels most comfortable for you, you then have to determine the firmness of the model.

You may want to choose a model that might seem a bit firmer than you're used

to. But keep in mind that the mattress you've been sleeping on has probably lost a lot of its support characteristics and a new mattress is going to "soften" the more you sleep on it.

7. Give the mattress a chance

Once you decide on a mattress and get it home, you've got to give it a chance. You may feel, initially, that you've made the wrong choice. Your body needs time to adjust to a sleeping surface that has a lot more support than the old, worn out one. Your spine might be working its way back into alignment; your hips and shoulders are being better supported.

-Product featured is available at Wright’s FurnitureWright's Furniture offers a wide variety of mattress styles and price-points. Mattress pads, sheets, pillows, duvet inserts, bedding sets and more are also available. Visit our showroom and select from stock or special order your own custom design.

6325 Hwy 93 South, Whitefish, Montana 59937 | 406.862.2455 | OPEN DAILY | www.wrightsfurniturestore.com

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Tablescaping

Imaginary après ski

By June Jeffries for Empress Tents and Events Photographed by Kelly Kirksey Photography

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Imagine stumbling upon an outdoor tablescape after sledding for the afternoon, cross country skiing along the nearby trails, or snowshoeing near Lake MacDonald. Who says you have to dine in the dining room?

We staged our photo shoot in Apgar campground, a short stroll to Lake MacDonald, Glacier National Park’s largest lake surrounded by mountains to the North and the South and 14 miles east is the Continental Divide. If you are brave it is open for primitive camping from October 14 through to November 30. We thought it would be fun to set up in the middle of a forested area, a carpet on a blanket of snow and trees as walls; a mixed and matched approach is fun: a collection of pieces of old and new, a little of this and that: a vintage chaise lounge, an old trunk painted white, crates to store a blanket and a pair of skates for an after lunch activity, thermoses full of hot beverages, a blue secretary desk with the top drawer filled with Douglas fir bows, a milk glass platter filled with blackberries sprinkled with snow, crystal vases filled with roses and mother nature’s greens, and a cheese and fruit tray to finish off an imaginary après ski.

design}

The one thing about setting up an outdoor tablescape in the snow is the desire to move quickly and with precision. The mayflower farm table

is the perfect table to use because the legs tuck underneath making it easy to transport and set up even in the most obscure surroundings. We added a bough and a bow to pilgrim cross back chairs so they would blend with the natural outdoor setting. Since we weren’t using a linen we thought the silver charger with a scalloped edge would add that little bit of dimension below the circular classic white plate; the blue and white luncheon plate added the perfect touch of color, hammered cutlery works perfectly inside or out, blue depression glass tied in with the vintage furniture and the clear regency glassware goes with everything. The floral arrangement was a combination of snow tipped pine, fir, pinecones, stargazers and white snapdragons.

Set down your ski poles, rest your sled against the trees, wrap yourself in a blanket and pretend there is a crackling fire behind the camera’s lens.

Thank you to Kelly Kirksey again and again we know you’d rather be in Disneyland, (kellykirkseyphotography.com), special thanks to Glacier Wallflower & Gifts (http://www.glacierwallflowers.com) and for ALL your event needs please contact Lynn Malmberg at (http://www.empresstentsevents.com) or https://www.vintagewhitesweddings.com because they have everything you want or need to make your event spectacular.

design}

Set down your ski poles, rest your sled against the trees, wrap yourself in a blanket and pretend there is a crackling fire behind the camera’s lens.

love}

Aaron &Zachary November 11th, 2017

Photography by Michala Berube Kozicky (Photo by Mic, LLC)

Who are you?

We’re a couple of typical Whitefish locals. We both work nights bartending and have daytime jobs too (plus our 12 month old son Soren). We love living in the Flathead for all the classic, if not cliché reasons; the great people, the endless recreation opportunities, and the beautiful landscape. If you’ve spent anytime in Whitefish chances are we’ve met.

How did you meet?

We knew each other as acquaintances but we really connected at a charity golf fundraiser tournament where we were paired up on the same team. It was an extremely long day with a number of delays but our group was full of restaurateurs, distributors, and bartenders so needless to say we had a lot of laughs. The rest, as they say, is history.

The Proposal?

Our Akita, Aidan, was somewhat notorious for getting thistles stuck in her thick neck fur so in order to surprise Aaron, Zak tied the ring onto the collar of the Akita and made a big fuss about how Aidan had gotten into heavy thistles during a walk.

Aaron came rushing in to “save the day” and pick the thistles from her furry baby but what she found was not a thistle but a sapphire and diamond engagement ring.

Aaron: “There’s no thistles! Wait, what the hell is this? … is this for me?”

Zak: “Only if you say yes…”

What is love?

Zak: Well that’s a tough question! The temptation to insert a famous quote as a placeholder crossed both our minds; however, that’s not really our style. We joke with each other that Love is always having to say you’re sorry but in practice it’s really about acceptance, laughter and putting the other person’s need ahead of your own.

Aaron: Yeah, what he said! But also, love is about trusting each other enough to talk through our tougher issues and leaving our egos at the door. Understanding that we can be a couple but still be individuals is a pretty huge part of how we built our love story.

What do you love most about each other?

Zak: Her sense of humor and her smile.

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Aaron: He is the consummate gentleman and he has some pretty serious swagger.

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When did you know you were in love?

Zak: About 5 months into our relationship.

We travelled to rural Mexico with friends and didn’t get into an argument once. I think it’s a good test of a relationship to be able to handle the stress of travelling in a foreign country and maintain your passion – and your sense of humor.

Aaron: Honestly, I knew he was the one from the first night we kissed. I wasn’t dumb enough to tell him that, of course! But from that point on, I knew we were in this for the long game.

Wedding Details: · The wedding took place in the warehouse of the historic Kalispell Mercantile building. Aaron’s father, Bill Goodman, who owns the KM building renovated the space, formerly used for storage, into an open floor plan and dance hall specifically for our wedding.

· Curtis Green of GreenGo’s and Dan Crumbaker of the Whitefish Lake Golf Club catered the wedding.

· Dawn Kinney created the wedding cake. · Andy Anderson from Soucie Soucie did Aaron’s hair and Emily Myers did her makeup. · The New Wave Time Trippers played classic pop hits. · At 11:00 p.m. a surprise serving of Moose’s Pizza was provided courtesy of the Bride and Groom. · The last of three shuttles departed for Whitefish at midnight.

Fun Wedding Facts: · More than 50 champagne glasses were broken. · More than 200 people attended. · More than 1300 pictures were taken in the photo booth.

For their honeymoon, Aaron and Zak traveled to Cabo San Lucas with their son Soren Wolf and two other couples.

love} stories

I knew he was the one from the first night we kissed. I wasn’t dumb enough to tell him that, of course! But from that point on, I knew we were in this for the long game.

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Chic, beautiful and timeless.....

“Love you forever” The Secret Heart Collection™ From Mark Schneider

139 Main Street, Kalispell, MT 59901 406.752.6809 - 800.554.8577- WWW.WHEELERJEWELRYMT.COM

love} July 8th, 2017 Whitefish Mountain Resort

Danielle &David Photography by Green Kat Photography www.greenkatphotography.com

Who are you?

My name is David Hobbs and I am a nurse in an ER in Kalispell. I grew up in Whitefish and went to college in Missoula. I also lived in Alaska for a few years.

My name is Danielle Hobbs (formerly Shockley). I grew up in Issaquah, WA, and moved to Montana for college in 2007. In 2012, David convinced me to follow up him to Alaska. While I loved many aspects of living in there, particularly the epic mountains, Montana was always calling me back.

In June, we moved to Whitefish. I'm currently working as a long-term sub in Kalispell, and hoping to secure a teaching job next year.

How did you meet?

We lived in the same dorm our freshman year of college. We didn't start dating until we ran into each other in a brewery in Stevensville. Danielle had just finished work and was headed to Missoula and I was coming back from a day highlining in the Bitterroot. She was wearing a red coat and her radiant smile. Something clicked in my head when I saw her again and the rest is history.

The Proposal?

I had a big elaborate plan to propose on a roadtrip to Bend, OR from Seattle, WA when we were down from Alaska visiting Danielle's family for the holidays. After getting shut down by weather, not having the ring on me at good opportunities and almost getting caught pulling it out of my backpack I popped the question in a park by the Deschutes River on a walk after dinner.

What is love?

David - One of the greatest dance party songs of all time! Also, its that warm fuzzy feeling I get when she falls asleep on my shoulder at night or gives me her big happy smile. Its compromise, communication, commitment and time management. It takes work and patience and luck, but there is a lightness and warmth to it. Loving Danielle is the easiest thing I've ever done.

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Danielle - I really enjoy Plato’s explanation of love in the Myth of Aristophanes. I learned about from the movie Hedwig and the Angry Inch. In it, he explains that there are beings that once roamed the earth who were completely circular with four arms and four legs. Zeus felt threatened by their power and split them in half—thus creating human beings. Ever since, humans wander the earth searching for their other half; we call it love.

Now, this may be a pretty lousy explanation of the myth, but I think the idea behind it is beautiful. It explains why you just know

when you’ve met the right person. Love is finding someone who completes you; they make you better, they make you stronger, and they balance you out. Love is ability to travel anywhere in the world and still be home.

What do you love most about each other?

David - Her smile, her ability to make me feel safe and happy and loved. Her devotion to teaching, and not just the easy kids. She seems to thrive on working with challenging students from every socioeconomic background imaginable.

love} stories

love is compromise, communication, commitment and time management. It takes work and patience and luck, but there is a lightness and warmth to it. Loving Danielle is the easiest thing I've ever done.Â

love} stories

David is tremendously kind. He demonstrates his kindness in the profession he’s chosen; his willingness to drop anything for a friend; and in his actions. I love that he will always wait for me whether he’s waiting for me to decide my outfit, or waiting in the middle of ski run- he’s there.

It blows my mind how she stays calm and happy herding a room full of middle schoolers through a day without killing any of them.

She has endless hope, fantastic listening skills and an incredible ability to compromise and help us find balance in our lives. She's a great teammate, snuggler and adventure buddy and she still loves me when our casual little bike rides turn into steep technical trails or 8 hours of riding through glacial runoff in the pouring rain and avoiding hypothermia. It's a wonder she puts up with me, and I can't explain why, but maybe that's the most important part.

Danielle - I love that David is tremendously kind. He demonstrates his kindness in the profession he’s chosen; his willingness to drop anything for a friend; and in his actions. I love that he will always wait for me whether he’s waiting for me to decide my outfit, or waiting in the middle of ski run- he’s there. I love that he has hunger to improve himself that, in turn, motivates me to be better.

When did you know you were in love?

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David - That day in the Brewery planted the seed. I'm not sure how I feel about love at first sight, but that sure got me started. From then

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on, things just slowly pieced their way together until we were living together, buying plane tickets to see each other in Alaska and going on all kinds of adventures. It kind of snuck up on me and I don't think I have a specific point in time where I knew I was in love. It just kind of snuck in on me as our relationship grew and eventually became an undeniable, wonderful truth.

Danielle - I realized that I loved David when we were on an overnight trip to Weir Hot Springs.

We had both been burned before so we were super hesitant to say the words “love.” We had the morning sun shining in our faces, the relaxation of soaking in the springs, the gentle sound of his didgeridoo (maybe gentles not the right word and yes he brought a didgeridoo camping). I kept thinking that I was pretty sure I was in love. I, however, kept telling David that I really really liked him.

Wedding Details:

Our wedding took place on July 8th on Whitefish Mountain Resort. The ceremony was at the summit. Guests took the gondola, or chairlift to the top. Our good friend Brian Martens married us. He had us tie a Figure 8 knot during the ceremony to symbolism our union. We downloaded the lifts and guests also

had the option of taking the Alpine Slide to the bottom. For those of you who don’t know, Alpine Slide is like the slide of your childhood with a contraption you ride on that looks like a wagon with a brake lever attached. They bent the rules and let David and I ride it together.

The Alpine Slide was the one wedding request David had.

The reception was held at the Base Lodge.

David’s cousin, Cara Alboucq, sang our “Boy with a Coin” by Iron and Wine for our first dance. She followed it with Tom Petty’s “Wildflowers” for our Father-Daughter dance.

After that, a raucous dance party ensued. The reception concluded with friends and family huddled around us singing Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believin’” at the top of their lungs.

Fun facts:

David’s a woodworker and made all of his groomsmen’s bowties. His was made out of the Koa, a Hawaiian hardwood, which also, happens to be the name of our dog.

Honeymoon plans:

We’ll likely be on our honeymoon when this publication comes out. We’re staying in David’s uncle’s time-share in Cabo San Lucas. We are excited to tan our pasty bodies in the hot sun.

villageshopwhitefish.com

201 Central ave. whitefish Montana 59937 - 406.862.3200 @thevillageshop_mt

fashion}

Spring Jewels

at the village shop Downtown Whitefish. 406-862-3200 @thevillageshop_mt

Above image from left to right: Jamie Joseph Druzy agate ring $1,188. Jamie Joseph Aquamarine ring $1,115. Jamie Joseph Opal ring with a diamond $1,465 Images below listed 1 through 4: 1. Jamie Joseph Smithsonite double chain necklace $1,115.00 2.Lula Designs Labradorite gold chain earrings $82.00

3. Michelle Pressler Opal and green onyx necklace $152 4. Kamofie thorn leaf with diamonds 18� necklace $1,705

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2.

3.

4.

Photos by Carrie Ann Photography

food}

Hangover free wine,

and your magical unicorn

Wine trends come and go, but one in particular recently caught our attention. Behold, a wine in which dreams are made of: “Because life’s beautiful nights shouldn’t steal from tomorrow’s productivity and happiness. With Dry Farm Wines, you can enjoy the richness of the evening without the headaches, hangovers, or poor sleep.” ~www.dryfarms.com “Wine without the Hangover?

It’s a Miracle!” ~GQ Magazine “The Best Wine to Avoid a Headache.”

Livestrong.com

Wait, what?! Are they saying it’s truly possible to find a wine that doesn’t give you hangovers?

But what if you drink the whole bottle? What if you drink two? C’mon. Do you honestly think your body can handle an entire bottle of wine

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Written by Karen Sanderson, Brix Bottleshop

in one night and not feel some sort of regret the next day? (If you can do this, perhaps an intervention is in order? Just sayin’.) Let’s just get this out of the way right now. Moderation is key no matter what the latest articles tell you.

Yet, we found a surprising number of articles on this very subject. Let’s dive into the details, shall we?

Sustainable Wines

The number one reason most of these articles claim to have discovered hangover free wine is because the wines are made in the most natural, sustainable ways possible. They say these wines are lacking specific compounds that cause hangovers. But wait. Aren’t hangovers caused by drinking too much? By alcohol? Are these people claiming to prevent drunkenness? No. Listen carefully. YOU STILL GET DRUNK! This is why most doctors find it outrageous to see magazines promoting hangover-free wines.

It gives people a false pretense that it’s ok to drink more. I don’t know about you, but when I drink too much, I sing really bad karaoke, can’t say no to potato chips, and obviously, can’t drive. Forget the hangover. There are plenty of other reasons why we shouldn’t drink too much.

Sorry to burst your bubble, but your magical unicorn is a fantasy. With that said, natural wines have been trending in a big way, with or without this claim. Sustainable wines DO have merit and our team has many favorites made in this fashion. Here are 3 factors to consider when it comes to buying sustainable wines.

1: The Source.

Hundreds of wineries genuinely strive to produce the most sustainable wine possible.

They all have different methods and some are sought after as the holy grail of wine without even having to promote their sustainability. We love selling wines from importers like Kermit Lynch, Louis Dressner, and Peter Weygant.

Theses buyers seek out the very best sustainable European wines made under certain parameters.

Making natural wine is difficult from start to finish and we applaud these efforts. Most of the time the finished product is a brilliant display of winemaking genius. However, is it possible to go too far? What if the wines are overly flawed? What if the wine completely over funks and starts refermenting in the bottle? Are we supposed to choke down bad wines in the name of “nature?” In my opinion, the answer is no. It pays to be picky, and the only way to know these things is to do a little research. Some of the best (and highest priced) wines in the world are made sustainably, but unfortunately, so are some of the worst.

2. Viticulture and winemaking.

What exactly makes a wine “sustainable” or “natural?” Some wineries will go as far as becoming certified organic and others take the next step of becoming Biodynamic. Most sustainable wineries, however, will practice some, but not all of the following. Here is a guide to what to look for in your next healthy wine purchase.

food}

wine hangover

Let’s just get this out of the way right now. Moderation is key no matter what the latest articles tell you.

Sustainable practices worth touting: Hand picked, hand sorted (This is arduous and costly, a true test of sustainability.)

Pesticide free (Who wants pesticides in their wine?

Definitely not cool if it can be prevented.)

Low sulfites (Less than 75ppm is often advertised, but some wines are already naturally low.)

Fair wages & benefits for employees including vineyard workers (Not easy, but important.)

Organic/biodynamic farming (Note: going organic is great, but not all organic tastes great.)

Wild native yeast (Most old world wineries have native yeasts floating around, but most brand new facilities will need to introduce new yeasts. This is not a bad thing.)

Minimal intervention in winemaking (Overall, all winemakers must massage their wines into perfection.

The ones who create masterpieces with the least intervention are typically the highest sought after.)

Wine words used to impress, but are often misleading: Small producer (First, what defines small? Then ask yourself, are all small restaurants great? Isn’t this subjective? The point advertisers are trying to make is that some of the giant companies are the ones using additives to make highly manipulated wines. We want to avoid this at all costs. But keep in mind that some of our favorite wines are made by large wineries that practice sustainability in their vineyard and winery.)

Non-filtered (These wines can be great if done right, but this practice itself has yet to be scientifically proven to make a wine healthier.)

Non-irrigated vineyards (Note: Saving water is very important, we get that. But keep in mind that most vineyards 10 years and older don’t need irrigation. Since roots naturally grow downward seeking water, they no longer need irrigation once they reach it.)

No additives (Some wineries do add odd ingredients, so it’s best to stick to low maintenance here. Wines with kitchy names in the big box stores are often guilty of adding flavors, sugars, or excessive sulfites.)

Gluten free (Wine is made of grapes, not wheat, so don’t even go there.)

Carb Free (All wine is carb free. Hello, marketing ploy!)

Sugar free, mold free (Most wines are sugar and mold free unless the goal is dessert wine.)

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Old Vines (Old should mean over 20-30 years in the US. In Europe, 40 or more years are considered old vines.

This is a loosely marketed word so be cautious.)

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wine hangover

4. The taste.

It really comes down to drinkability doesn’t it?

Some people reach for sulfite free wines to prevent headaches not knowing that wine contains less sulfites than dried fruit. Did you know dehydration is the #1 cause of headaches from consuming wine?

Now you do! Some natural wines taste amazing, but if you don’t like “barnyard funk” then you’re not going to like a large percentage of the “100% natural” wine options. Most wine shops strive for that perfect balance of wines made sustainably that also taste great. There is no doubt wines made with the most natural processes can be healthy for your body. However, you should feel comforted knowing that many sustainable wines are still delicious just by minimal intervention and simple winemaking techniques. The best way to find out is to try it yourself. Like I did….

Natural wine test:

11 p.m., January 22nd, 2018 (This paragraph was written post skiing, post dinner, and post bottle. Only slightly edited and ‘twas bit tipsy. Consider yourself warned.)

“Tonight we opened a new bottle of natural wine for dinner. It looked like an unfiltered murky, hazy mess and it smelled like cherry poop. (That’s real wine term. not kidding!)

The funk slightly “blew off” after about 20 minutes and finally tasted ok enough to eat with lasagna. Somehow I ended up finishing the entire bottle and proceeded to play the liveliest game of UNO ever seen at our dinner table! After having skied all day, I was definitely dehydrated which is probably why the bottle emptied so quickly. Even though I own a wine shop, you’ll be surprised to know that I’m quite a lightweight when it comes to imbibing. One thing I can say for sure is that dirnkihg natural wine does NOT prevent you from getting tipsy!

And then, after settling in to a nightcap of Trevor Noah, it hit me. Oh no. My head started spinning with unwanted drunkenness, and guess what else? Any ideas? A headache! A #$&*#@ headache, AND a stomachache! And that’s all I have to say abour natural awiune and the really ridiculous notion atht you cant’ have a headacje no matter how much you drink.“ Like I said, this is what I actually wrote that night!

Of course, that experience may have had nothing to do with the wine. In fact, I’m pretty sure it didn’t because you know what else happened? I had no headache the next morning. Stomachache, yes, but no headache. Are they are on to something here? I still say no, and here’s why. I had less than 3 glasses of wine over 5 hours that night and I know it would take more than that to cause a headache the next day.

Am I willing to take THAT test? No way. I have no desire to polish an entire bottle of wine for the sake of research. I’m smarter than that, and so are you. Finding a magical unicorn sounds much more appealing.

Happy Sipping!

Karen

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Ginger, Glucose and Good soup

By Dr Austine Siomos

What is the first thing you think of when you hear “carbs?” Do you run in the other direction? Do you wrestle with feelings of hunger and guilt? Do you imagine a big plate of pasta or the treats that well-intentioned coworkers bring to the office? These days, carbohydrates are often seen as overly tempting vehicles of sugar. One of the most common strategies when someone starts a diet is to limit carbohydrates.

I am here to defend that misunderstood macronutrient, the carbohydrate. There are three macronutrients that our bodies use for energy.

These are carbohydrates, fat and protein. All three macronutrients are essential for good health.

Carbohydrates are broken down into glucose to be used for energy by the body. When you eat foods that contain carbohydrates, blood sugar increases, stimulating the pancreas to secrete insulin.

Glucose is essential to many parts of the body.

Glucose is the sole fuel for the brain, except in dire circumstances such as prolonged starvation.

Surprisingly, muscle is also largely dependent on glucose. About three quarters of all glycogen (the storage form of glucose) in the body is stored in muscle.

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So why have carbohydrates become evil in many eyes, and why are they the target of so many diets?

There are a few reasons for this.

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1. Carbohydrates can be refined to the point of being close to pure sugar. White flour, white pasta, white rice and other refined grains have close to the same effect on the body as pure sugar. This effect, according to researchers, at best causes labile blood sugar and hunger and at worst is toxic.

2. There is a trend in the past few decades toward “reductionist” views of nutrition.

Essentially this means that many people are starting to see each food as “a carb” or “a protein” instead of a food. In reality most foods contain at least 2 of the 3 macronutrients, and often all three. For instance, garbanzo beans contain 6g fat, 60g carbohydrates and 20g protein.

Pure sugar and refined grains have only been widely available for a few hundred years.

Our bodies are designed to process complex carbohydrates, which are made of sugar molecules strung together in long, complex chains. Complex carbohydrates are found in all vegetables and fruits as well as peas, beans and whole grains.

When we eat complex carbohydrates, we usually also eat a significant amount of fiber. This is wonderful!

I can’t say enough good things about fiber.

Americans on average eat only half the amount of recommended fiber in a day. Fiber does countless amazing things. It fills up our stomachs and makes us full, it allows for slow release of glucose in our bodies so that there is no big spike in blood

sugar followed by quick decrease that makes us feel hungry again. It also releases water (such as water from an apple) slowly into the body so that we have more even hydration throughout the day. Fiber feeds our good intestinal bacteria and regulates bowel habits. It is actually difficult to find anything negative about fiber.

Coming back to the question of health and carbohydrates, this macronutrient has been demonized with no real evidence. In fact, the longest living people and communities in the world eat high carbohydrate diets. The important distinction when looking at these long living people and their diets, however, is that their carbohydrates are all complex. They eat greens, whole fruits, yams, nuts, seeds and whole grains.

Think about how you feel after eating a bowl of frosted flakes (3/4 cup frosted flakes + 1 cup milk), containing 38g carbohydrates and less than 1 gram of fiber. Then compare that to how you feel after eating 2 cups of a kale and quinoa salad containing 28g carbohydrates and 4g fiber. If you try this for a few mornings, you may notice how soon you become hungry after the frosted flake meal and how long you stay full after a meal of complex carbohydrates.

Ginger

What does ginger have to do with carbohydrates?

From a health standpoint, ginger naturally lowers blood sugar. Ginger is from the same plant family as turmeric and cardamom. It provides mild spice and fragrance to meals that is delightful. Ginger is versatile in cooking as well, and can be used in savory meals and desserts. It is anti-inflammatory and works as an antioxidant.

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Ginger Carrot Soup

Lower blood sugar: A study in 2015 in people with type 2 diabetes demonstrated a decrease in fasting blood sugar by 12% with 2g ginger powder daily. These patients also had a 10% decrease in HbA1c, which is a marker of long-term average blood sugar levels.

Improve brain function: Oxidative stress and chronic inflammation can accelerate aging as well as age related cognitive decline and even Alzheimer’s Disease. The antioxidants and bioactive compounds in ginger can inhibit inflammatory responses that occur in the brain.

There is also evidence that ginger can enhance short-term brain function also. A study of middle aged health women in 2011 demonstrated improved working memory and reaction time when taking daily ginger extract.

When we eat complex carbohydrates, we usually also eat a significant amount of fiber. This is wonderful!

Fight bacterial and viral infections: Gingerol is the bioactive substance in fresh ginger. This inhibits the growth of many disease-causing bacteria. It is also effective against oral bacteria that causes gum disease such as gingivitis and periodontitis. A study in 2013 also showed that fresh ginger has anti-viral activity, specifically against RSV (respiratory syncytial virus).

ginger and peel and chop the carrots

3. Add onion, garlic and ginger to the olive oil and cook until the onion is almost clear, about 5 minutes

Naturally treat indigestion and nausea:

demonstrated significant reduction in cholesterol in patients taking daily ginger for 45 days.

Instructions 1. Chop the onion, mince garlic, chop the

2. Coat the bottom of a large pan with olive oil and heat to medium high

Ginger has been used for thousands of years as a digestive aid and a natural treatment for nausea. A recent study demonstrated that ginger actually helps the stomach empty its contents into the small intestines more efficiently. This is a good treatment for people with delayed gastric emptying.

Naturally treat cholesterol: a study in 2008

Ingredients: 1 tablespoon olive oil 1 yellow onion 1 clove garlic 3 tablespoons fresh ginger 1 pound carrots 32 ounces mushroom stock (or vegetable stock if mushroom is not available) 1 can garbanzo beans (or 3 cups dried beans soaked and cooked prior) coconut milk, coconut cream or other milk to add for desired consistency salt to taste pepper to taste

4. Add carrots, garbanzo beans and

mushroom stock and bring to a boil

5. Decrease heat to simmer and cook until the carrot are soft, about 20 minutes

Dr Austine Siomos I am a pediatric cardiologist. I trained first to become a pediatrician and then specialized in the study of pediatric hearts. I see children from before they are born until they are ready to see an adult cardiologist. I am passionate about the health of all children and families.

My goal for all children is to promote healthy habits and avoidance of those types of heart disease that are generally considered to be adult problems.

6. Stir in coconut milk or coconut cream 7. Use a blender, food processor or immersion blender to blend soup until smooth 8. Add salt and pepper to taste 9. Garnish with parsley or carrot greens, serve and enjoy!

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Two Bean

Vegan Soup

By Carole Morris

Many of our New Year’s resolutions included losing weight and getting healthier. We thought we would help get you on the right track with this vegan soup. This delicious and satisfying soup will be extra sexy if served with the Cheesy Cornbread recipe in this issue of 406 Woman.

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Two Bean Vegan Soup Sauté together 2 tablespoons olive oil 1 chopped onion ¼ cup minced garlic

2 cups stewed tomatoes 2 cups pinto beans (canned or precooked)

1 cup celery

2 cups red beans (canned or precooked)

Add

Mix together in bowl

1 teaspoon oregano 1 teaspoon thyme 2 teaspoons cumin ½ teaspoon black pepper 1 teaspoon red pepper 1 jalapeno (chopped)

1/2 cup green pepper 1 cup crushed tomatoes 3/4 cup brown sugar 3/4 cup white vinegar 2 tablespoons onion powder 1 ½ teaspoon salt

Instructions

Sauté, in olive oil—onions, garlic and celery. When brown add oregano, thyme, cumin, black pepper, red pepper, jalapeno, stewed tomatoes, pinto beans, and red beans. Simmer, while you mix together the rest of the ingredients.

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In a bowl—mix together green pepper, crushed tomatoes, brown sugar, vinegar, onion powder and salt. Add to soup mixture and simmer for an hour or more on low heat.

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A Few Thoughts on

Cheesy Bread

By Cindy Della Monica, Cheesemonger and Owner, Cheese Central

I feel lucky to be living in California, where the climate is generally temperate. I grew up in the south Bay Area, where the sun shines daily except for the occasional rain clouds or marine layer of fog drifting over the Santa Cruz Mountains. There, my mom’s version of “cheesy bread” was Wonder white with American slices, toasted in a ton of margarine. As a young bride, I was excited to make the late summertime move to Seattle and school at UW. We arrived to a clear blue sky, sparkling water in the lakes and Puget Sound, and greenery filling the landscape. The first of the fabled northwest rain started early in October, a bit of snow dusted roofs and roads in November, and then rain, and drizzle, and more rain—until AUGUST of the following year!

Inclement weather to me means dinners of soups, stews, chili, hearty roasts or meatloaf with a side of vegetables, and bread or rolls. These foods make the house feel cozy against the drab consistent gray through the windows. I was already a bread baker before the move, but I certainly had time and incentive to perfect my techniques during our Northwest stay.

Fast forward from the rainy 70’s … to today’s aromas in my cheese shop in the sunny Central Valley town of Lodi. I teach bread baking classes here, and there are 100 different cheeses at my fingertips to use in breads, muffins, scones and rolls of all kinds. More often than not, my carb creations accompany hearty salads filled with local produce, from Delta asparagus to the myriad fruits and vegetables grown all around us. The soup/stew/roast meals are confined to December through March, then the grill is taken out from its winter cover. Yeasty pizza dough with fresh toppings and gooey cheeses of all kinds are a go-to grill item. The garden starts to kick in fresh herbs and veggies until the summer abundance brings us back to those hearty entrée salads where bread and cheese play a minor role, but are present nonetheless.

Today I look out my window as I’m writing. Gray and rainy, drippy shop canopies and slick streets. Chili is in the crockpot at home, and I’m thinking a sweet/ savory cornbread should go with it. Our weekend menu also has a beef broth vegetable soup--a few baguette slices with Fromage Fort (see recipe on the right) will be wonderful next to that bowl of soup!

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If you can’t make bread dough, please try the Fromage Fort. We use this recipe at the cheese shop when we have bits and pieces too small to sell. Whipped up with white wine and garlic, this schmear is spread onto good bread and tucked into a hot oven for instant gratification. It will bring cheesy goodness onto a delicious bakery baguette—you won’t be disappointed.

If you haven’t baked a golden yeasty loaf before, take the plunge into a floury mixing bowl next. Google basic bread dough, add shredded cheese to the dough in the final mixing, and let rise and bake as directed.

Easy-peasy! Keep in mind bread baking is an exact science—measure precisely; yeast is a living organism that loves warm liquid and warm air; and the slow drift of time lets you rise a delightful loaf. Read a few chapters, or watch that movie with the kids while the house fills with a yeasty aroma.

The Zweibelkuchen recipe is a great German recipe that will remind you of a creamy oniony pizza! Also, try the cheesy buttermilk cornbread with your favorite chili or stew…delicious.

Next time you head to Northern California and specifically Lodi, you must visit CHEESE CENTRAL. Cindy and the entire staff are ready to help you with samples of their 100+ cheeses. Visit www.cheesecentral.com for more information.

FROMAGE FORT

Fromage fort is the ultimate way of using leftover cheese.

Recipe adapted from Jaques Pepin.

Put about 1/2 lb. of various cheese pieces in the bowl of a food processor. We use all kinds, but limit the blue cheese to less than 15% of total weight.

Add 1 garlic clove, about 1/4 C of dry white wine and a big grinding of black pepper. Salt is usually not needed, but taste the mixture and add some if it is. Process for 30 seconds or so, until the mixture is creamy but not too soft, and then pack it into small containers. The fromage fort is ready to use now, either served cold or spread on bread and broiled for a few minutes. Broiling will brown the cheese and make it wonderfully fragrant.

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CHEESY BUTTERMILK CORNBREAD

Preheat oven to 375⁰. PAM an 8x8” baking pan, set aside. In a large mixing bowl, combine the melted butter, sugar and honey. Whisk in the eggs one at a time, beating until the mixture is smooth. Add the buttermilk and mix to combine.

8 T butter, melted 1/3 C sugar ¼ C honey 2 eggs, room temperature 1 C buttermilk 1 C flour 1 C cornmeal ½ t salt ½ t baking soda 2 C shredded sharp Cheddar, or spicy Jalapeno Jack

In a medium mixing bowl, whisk together the flour, cornmeal, salt and baking soda. Stir in shredded cheese to coat well with flour mixture.

Gradually add the dry ingredients to the wet ingredients, stirring with a spatula until only a few lumps remain. Pour the batter into the prepared pan, smoothing the top with the spatula to create an even layer. Allow the batter to sit for 5-10 minutes before placing in the oven.

A simple quick bread, sweet and savory. Yield: 1 (8x8) pan

Bake for 25-35 minutes, or until the top is golden brown and a cake tester inserted into the center comes out clean.

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ZWEIBELKUCHEN

An easy yeast dough, German-pizza style…

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1 pkg. active dry yeast 1 t sugar 1 ½ t salt 1 C water 3 C flour 1 T butter 6 slices of bacon, fried until crisp, fat reserved 2 yellow onions, sliced ¼ t cumin ½ t salt Freshly ground black pepper 1 egg yolk 1 C sour cream

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In large mixer bowl, combine yeast, sugar, salt, water, ½ C flour, and butter. Beat for 2 minutes.

Add enough flour to make a soft dough. Turn out onto lightly floured board and knead for 5 minutes, until smooth and elastic. Cover and place in lightly greased bowl, and let rise until doubled in size, about 1 hour.

Meanwhile, fry onions in reserved bacon fat until soft and slightly golden. Pat dough into lightly greased 12” pizza pan or baking sheet, pressing up sides to make a slight rim. Evenly distribute onions, bacon, cumin, salt, and pepper over dough. Bake 400⁰ for 20 minutes.

Whisk together egg yolk and sour cream. Pour over the onions, and bake 10-15 minutes longer, until sour cream is set and bread crust has turned golden brown. Serve warm or room temp.

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Tweet for Success…

Not Distress

By Kristen Pulsifer

When applying to college, there are a myriad of things students need to think about. Students are plagued with questions such as: where should I go to school, how can I afford school, how am I going to finish these applications, how do I make colleges notice me and want me to attend their school?

These are only a few of the stressful concerns that go through each student’s mind as they begin the arduous college application process. Now there is yet one more question to throw into the batch- Are my tweets, blogs and Facebook pages appropriate for a college admissions director to view, should they decide to access them while reviewing my application? Unfortunately, for most students, the answer to this question is probably, NO! Natasha Singer wrote an insightful article in the New York Times describing in detail this issue.

Singer writes, “As certain high school seniors work

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meticulously to finish their early applications to colleges, some may not realize that comments they casually make online could negatively affect their prospects.” This issue was heightened when a high school senior attended a campus visit at the prestigious Bowdoin College in Brunswick, Maine.

“Throughout the presentation, she apparently posted disparaging comments on Twitter about her fellow attendees, repeatedly using a common expletive. Perhaps she hadn’t realized that colleges keep track of their social media mentions.”

This is just one situation among many that has been noted and made public by college admissions offices around the country. Students need to clean up their act if they are going to represent themselves well to colleges and universities they desire to attend.

The Internet has become a popular place for people to express opinions, thoughts and pictures; but, people, especially teenagers, forget how many people have access to all content that is blogged, posted and tweeted. These thoughts are public representations of who we are. It is not so different than deciding what clothes to wear to school, to

work or to an interview. We want the choices, especially the visible ones, to embrace and portray who we are and what we value. Our comments are no different and can give someone the wrong impression.

The student on the campus tour at Bowdoin College may have meant no harm. We all say things about others in an attempt to be ‘cool’, funny, accepted, or maybe we simply say, or now ‘tweet’ things, out of jealousy and insecurities; but, these comments are now put in writing for anyone to see, and everyone is looking.

On the other hand, Facebook pages and blogs can be used to an applicant’s advantage. Some students may be part of either an interesting political or social cause, and a student may ask a college or university to look at either a blog or video they have created. Students can use these as tools to help supplement their college applications. These videos, alone, will not be ‘the ticket’ to acceptance, but they can certainly work as a positive supplement to a student’s resume of extracurricular activities.

Students simply need to ‘clean up’ when applying to college. This is a valuable life lesson in how to appropriately and accurately represent yourself and your accomplishments. Most importantly, students should remember - “college(s) vary in their transparency. While Pitzer (College, in California) doesn’t contact students if their social media activities precluded admission to the school, Colgate University does notify students if they are eliminated from the applicant pool for any reason other than being uncompetitive candidates.”

Students never know who is looking so make sure, students, that you act is if everyone is looking.

Dress for the occasion and make sure people are seeing the person you truly are and have worked to become. *Information quoted from New York Times, November 19, 2014. “Toning Down the Tweets Just In Case Colleges Pry”, by Natasha Singer

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The Fabulous Baker Girl

A Life of Irene Lentz

By Brian D’Ambrosio

She was the fabulous Baker girl who had built “Irene” into a quality trademark.

This fabled designer of magical gowns for the movies once led such a charmed career that she was minimally known by her first name: Irene.

Hollywood costume designer Irene Lenz, circa 1942.

Twice Oscar-nominated for costume decoration and revered for her luxurious dresses, gowns and day skirts, Lentz undoubtedly came to Baker, Montana with her family at a young age and she was no doubt part of the fourth class to receive diplomas for the Baker High School.

The Lentz Brothers, Emil F., Irene’s father, and his brother, Edward O., are listed in the 1910 Rosebud County directory as owners of a general merchandise store. When Baker High School’s first declamatory contest was held in the opera house, Lentz is listed as a participant, and that very same month, October 1915, another newspaper clipping identified her as a pupil in the piano class of Miss Pearl Young and as part of recitals at the Congregational church.

Her name also appears in the October 22, 1915, The Fallonite as a soloist in the Rally Day exercises and program at the M.E. Sunday school and in the April 15, 1916, edition of that same paper, Lentz is listed in the Baker High School Oratorical Contest, performing “Piano Solo” and “Betty Simkin’s Man.” A seemingly natural born performer, she also entertained members of the Laki Club in their homes and performed vocal and instrumental numbers at suppers in the Congregational church basement and for the 10 children who graduated from the Baker grade school. The July 23, 1915, The Baker Sentinel contained this frivolous, yet adorable nugget of information: “Misses Jeannette Price and Irene Lentz accompanied Mr. Price to Glendive on Tuesday and came back in a new Ford.”

Young Irene: a Performer, a Debater, a County Clerk

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In 1917, Irene Lentz excelled on the school debate team and even played guard on the Baker High School girls’ basketball team, “picturesque in

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Census records validate her birthplace as Brookings, South Dakota, born in 1901, though myriad publications such as Cosmopolitan complicated matters with faulty statements such as this one made in October, 1943: “For this woman who sets styles for two continents was born plain Irene Lentz on a ranch in Montana.” duotone stockings,” according to one newspaper, and Mrs. Emil Lentz (formerly Maud Walters) rendered a violin solo at the women’s club meeting.

Among other activities, Irene sang in the Easter program in the Methodist Sunday school and E.F. Lentz was part of an executive committee named by Governor Stewart urging Montana communities to encourage the planting of home gardens, which was “received with enthusiasm by Baker citizens.”

of the Four Annual Commencement of the Baker High School held in the Lake Theatre on Thursday, May 22, 1919. The Baker Sentinel noted:

Fourth Annual Commencement of the Baker High School

Home Girl Goes to California

In April 1917, young Irene was recorded in public audits as being paid and allowed “14.97” for “comparing Carter county records” and then “16.65” for similar job duties in the month of October. Her father, E.F. Lentz, was paid “166.65” for salary county clerk obligations. In November 1917, she and friend Beatrice Dougherty performed as a piano duet as part of a Red Cross fundraiser, which earned $43.60.

In addition to her schooling, Irene was part of the Literary Society and debate team and along with one Ernestine Lathom arranged the chorus for their society meetings. According to the April 4, 1918 issue of the Fallon County Times, “Miss Irene Lentz was awarded the second prize,” in the Declamatory Contest held at Baker High School “last Thursday evening.” Second prize was a handsome ring and her subject was “The Soul of a Violin.” The paper noted, “Miss Lentz was fine and it was hard for many present to tell whether she or Miss Wolcott would capture first place.” The Lentz Orchestra is listed in the program as supplying the musical entertainment of the night.

She was one of the four graduating students to be part of the fourth class to receive diplomas at Baker High School and was involved in the entertainment

“While the class was small, only four graduating this year, it is one the city and school may well be proud of. The war was the cause of the small class as several boys who were Seniors tendered their services to Uncle Sam and-joined the colors.”

The large auditorium “was packed to the doors” and program was started with a, musical number

by Miss Beatrice Daugherty, a march to which the class of l919, faculty and others on the program filed in and took their places on the stage. Rev. Chappell of the M.E. Church gave the invocation and was followed by “Miss Irene Lentz with the Salutatory and Presentation of Memorial.”

Planning to be a concert pianist, Irene traveled to California and enrolled in the music class at the University of Southern California, and she also dabbled as an actress.

In September 1923, The Baker Sentinel noted that Lentz would be supporting leading comedian Ben Turpin in a fast two reel farce, to be known as “Ten Dollars or Ten Days.”

“Miss Irene Lentz, a former Baker girl, is making a name for herself in the Mack Sennett Film Company and is under the direction of Del Lord appearing in a new two reel comedy.”

In 1923, when Lake Theatre, which opened in 1918, advertised “Tailor Made Man,” the ad noted that the all-star cast featured “one of our home girls, Irene Lentz, as the leading lady with Charles Ray.”

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Irene Lentz

She spent time in Los Angeles in 1925, working as a movie “extra” along with designer Walter Plunkett.

Around this time, her college roommate, with ambitions to be a designer of women’s clothes, planned a night course at a Los Angeles designing school, but was too shy to go alone and persuaded Irene into accompanying her. After the first lesson Irene decided she wanted to design clothes.

Shortly after completing the course she opened a dress shop on the U. S. C. campus and inexpensive numbers were her specialty; top price $29.50.

Her designs caught the attention of the “Hollywood crowd.” One result was her marriage to F. Richard Jones, a silent-film director, who financed her in a chic shop in Hollywood. But not long into their marriage, he died, and she closed the shop, which was so much a part of him and went to Europe alone. (Her husband of 11 months, Jones, died of tuberculosis at age 37.)

Photo of Irene Lentz courtesy of the Bess True collection, circa 1944.

There she studied her trade and became the rare designer who could sow, pin, and cut and, if she had to, turn out any garment single-handed.

Mayer's daughters Irene and Edith. Then one day in 1942, Mayer offered her the job as head of MGM’s costume department, replacing the famed Adrian (Connecticut-born Adrian Adolph Greenberg), who was leaving to start his own fashion line. “I thought maybe he wanted me to design wardrobe for some pictures,” Lentz once said.

According to one magazine, the move established her reign “as the West’s most sought after designer.”

According to another contemporary fashion magazine, during this period Irene’s “frugal Montana background proved something as a handicap.” She could never look customers in the eye and tell them the elevated price so she hired “a stooge” to follow her around on opening day and “answer the embarrassing questions about price.”

In 1947, another group of about 25 stores, including Bergdorf Goodman and Neiman Marcus, provided half the capital for Lentz to leave MGM studio to set up her own enterprise. With the stores' financing she made clothes exclusively for them to sell under her “Irene” brand name.

In her personal life, Irene went on to marry screenwriter Elliot Gibbons, brother of MGM Art Director Cedric Gibbons and Irene’s mother worked in a wardrobe department of the studio in Hollywood. Apparently, she was a fairly good hunter and she learned to shoot in Montana and the Gibbonses often joined the Gables on hunting trips, and “their home was one of the show places of California.” But, according to most accounts, their marriage was unhappy and stressed and after he left for Africa and points east or west, she moved into an apartment, her most faithful companion being Michael, her husband’s Irish setter.

Golden Age Designer

The Irene Salon

Shortly after her return to California she was asked to head the ultra-swank, custom design shop at Bullock’s-Wilshire. The Irene Salon opened at 9000 Sunset Blvd and her designs in the 1930s were hailed as “California Fresh” in the press. It was reputed to be the first boutique committed to a single designer inside a major US store.

She began dressing some of Hollywood's biggest female stars in 1933, and, credited only as “Irene,” she began working for United Artists and Columbia Pictures.

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Irene amassed a following among the wealthy wives of studio execs, including MGM chief Louis B. oman.com

Lentz’s permanent claim to history is that she costumed Hollywood's Golden Age stars for the big screen, including scandalously clad Lana Turner in 1946's The Postman Always Rings Twice.

She also dressed them in real life and boasted a celebrity clientele that would come to include Marilyn Monroe, Ava Gardner and Carole Lombard. Lentz was nominated for the Academy Award for Best Costume Design, Blackand-White for B.F.’s Daughter (1948) and Best Costume Design, Color for Midnight Lace (1960).

The final film she worked on appeared in theatres in 1963.

Took Her Own Life

On November 15, 1962, a few weeks prior to her 62nd birthday, under an assumed name, Irene checked herself into Hollywood’s Knickerbocker Hotel. She went to her room and downed two pints of vodka. She purportedly “slashed her wrists” and then leapt out an 11th-floor bathroom window.

She landed on a suspension awning and her body

was discovered later that night. A suicide note read: "I'm sorry. This is the best way. Get someone very good to design and be happy. I love you all, Irene."

She was interred at Forest Lawn Memorial Park in Glendale with first husband, F. Richard Jones.

A few weeks before her death, Irene had allegedly confided in her friend, actress Doris Day that “she had been in love with Gary Cooper” and he was “the only man she had ever loved.” (Cooper had succumbed to cancer the year before.)

Day recalled that she got the feeling that she was first to whom Irene had shared this information.

“Thinking about it now,” she wrote in Doris Day Her Own Story,” I cannot honestly say whether Irene’s love was one-sided or whether she and Cooper had actually had or were having an affair.”

In her 1998 book Cooper’s Women, author Jane Ellen Wayne wrote that Cooper and Irene would “become involved in a relationship” that continued over the years. It’s plausible that their affair was real, considering that Cooper had a powerful clutch over the many women he came to know and love, and even those he left behind. (Some have theorized that it’s entirely unlikely that Irene killed herself over Cooper, because, they’ve claimed, she was a lover of Marlene Dietrich’s.)

Although she had earned large sums of money, she was busted financially, and in ill health. In the book Lady Blue Eyes: My Life with Frank, Barbara Sinatra wrote that one night, toward the end of her life, Irene fell asleep with an electric blanket covering her head and woke up with her face paralyzed.

“I don’t know much about the private Irene,” said fashion designer Edith Head in an interview in the late 1970s. “She was not a happy woman…I know she liked hunting and guns and the great outdoors.

Deduce from that what you will.” In a 1983 article in The Seattle Times article, the author writes of the designer, "Irene reads like a Greek tragedy.”

“She had an unhappy marriage, a bad drinking problem, there were rumors of a romance with Gary Cooper that fell apart, and she never felt that the fashion press appreciated her.”

In the October 1937 Cosmopolitan, there is a two page article on “Irene” of Hollywood, which stated that Irene “was born on a Fallon county homestead” and received her education in Baker.

Perhaps it’s that very issue of Cosmopolitan which perfectly figures out the status and the glory and the important achievement of the former Irene Lentz, daughter of Emil Lentz, one time county clerk and also county treasurer in Baker, Montana.

“Irene, at thirty-five, is responsible for every costume in every film produced by the largest moving picture company in the world (MGM). So far as her studio is concerned, Irene has no last name. Very few people get along like that. I can think of only two who did - Topsy and Cleopatra.”

Brian D’Ambrosio is the author of numerous articles and several books, including “Warrior in the Ring: A Life of Native American Boxer Marvin Camel,” and “Rasta in the Ring: A Life of Rastafarian Boxer Livingstone Bramble,” and “Warriors on the Ice: Hockey’s Toughest Talk.” He may be reached at dambrosiobrian@hotmail.com

Going to the Sun Gallery proudly represents Weldon Kirk and Brent Flory Weldon Kirk is a landscape artist that uses pastels as his medium. His love for the outdoors and nature inspires his paintings. The beauty he discovered outside inspired him to paint.

Brent Flory paints beautiful western and native american paintings. He has done many shows and earned several awards for his fine art.