October 2020 Volume I Issue I by Anaverde Magazine

Vol. I. Issue I October 2020

Pumpkin Recipes Just in Time for Fall

Dating After Divorce

How to Break the News to Your Children

Halloween is Not Cancelled in Anaverde Ways to Celebrate Amid COVID-19 Concerns

Contents

Vol. I. Issue I October 2020

Features

Dating After Divorce

How soon should you introduce your new beau to your children?

Children and Too Much Tech

What you can do to protect your child from the dangers of too much social media exposure

Easy Pumpkin Pulp Recipes Just in Time for Fall

No need to toss those pumpkin seeds, there is good use for them

The Benefits of Drinking Kombucha

COVID-19 Travel Guide

Why it is best to drink Kombucha from the store

What you need to know before you take your next trip during the pandemic

Halloween Plans in Anaverde Hills

What to Pack for Your Weekend Camping Trip

Creative ways to keep trick-ortreating alive and staying safe

Pack the right items for your weekend camping trip this fall

Lose the COVID Weight with These Simple Steps

It is time to get your body moving and reverse the weight gain for good

Crossword Puzzle

Test your knowledge with this zany mix up of crosswords

On the Cover: Anaverde Magazine is inspired by fall and the Halloween season. The pumpkin with an artfully placed witch hat is the perfect illustration for this month’s cover.

Photograph by Sammyk Van Zaist

Letter from the Editor This statement caught me off-guard. It was not what I expected to hear. His simple reassurance opened my eyes to a whole new realization. Wow! Like Beverly Hills?!? I knew that Anaverde Hills was quite a special place with its well-manicured rolling hills, Christmas tree-lined roads that welcome you into the neighborhood and homes that fill the space with hues of sandy brown and earth tones, free of any litter or wrong-doing. Not to mention the flags that are interchangeable according to the seasons and perfectly lined with each light pole... but Beverly Hills?

ello there!

The fact that you are reading this letter simply gives me chills all over. Anaverde Magazine has been a brainchild of mine for over two years now. When my husband and I became new homeowners in this beautiful community of Anaverde Hills, I immediately knew that I wanted to do something tremendously special. It was as if I was being called to serve in a way that would impact both my life and the lives of my neighbors. Then it happened. One Tuesday afternoon, which everyone knows is trash pickup day in Anaverde Hills, I eagerly waited outside for the recycling truck to make its stop in front of my home. When the truck finally arrived, a little after two o’clock, I waved at the driver and motioned for him to roll down his window. Once he did, I asked if he could empty my bin then allow me to put the extra box that I had on the curb in the truck also? He smiled and said, “Absolutely! Don’t worry; if you ever have extra boxes, do your best to fold them and put them into the bin for pickup. We typically don’t leave behind boxes that you put out. This place is like Beverly Hills. We like to keep it neat, you know?”

After that encounter, I walked away with a sense of pride. Anaverde is my Beverly Hills. Surely, if Beverly Hills has a magazine, then Anaverde Hills will have its own luxe magazine with a twist too. That’s not as easy as it sounds but you know what I mean. Just as I walked away with a sense of accomplishment and pride that Tuesday afternoon, I want you to experience those same feelings as you witness the makings of a community tradition, Anaverde Magazine. This is your magazine – delivered straight to your mailbox to uplift, educate and empower you, the reader, and I want to hear from you! I want your productive input. Feel free to submit a story idea, cool photos that you captured of the community, and ask questions about the magazine, events, life! There are links on the website that direct you to what you need to communicate with us and the team and I are eager to get to know you and to serve you. Welcome to Anaverde Magazine! Grace & Peace,

Malena Jackson

PUBLISHER Anaverde Magazine, LLC FOUNDER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Malena Jackson EDITORIAL Managing Editor: Lori Callaway Associate Copy Editor: Katie Johnson ADVERTISING SALES Chris Lewis DESIGN Layout & Art Design: Madison Reynolds Graphics: Rameshwar Chawla 38713 Tierra Subida Avenue #128 Palmdale, CA 93551 Tel: 661-463-8061 Visit us online: anaverde-magazine.com Anaverde Magazine (ISSN 2691-7017) is published monthly for the Anaverde Hills community. Please note that the advertisements in the magazine are paid for by the advertisers, which allows the magazine to be free to the residents of the Anaverde Hills community. Limit of one free copy per household. Additional copies may be purchased for $5.99 per issue. Visit the website to order additional copies or send an email to hello@anaverdemagazine.com to request additional copies. Unless specifically noted, no advertisers, products or services are endorsed by the Magazine. Editorial submissions are welcome. Anaverde Magazine copyright 2020. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part without permission is prohibited.

Join the Conversation

Visit us online at www.anaverde-magazine.com

Letters to the Editor Being Friends with the Neighbors

seemed to always be something on the calendar. I would suggest starting there, once we are cleared to socialize.

Hi Anaverde Magazine!

You didn’t mention whether you attend the HOA meetings or not but those are also great opportunities to meet people from the community. The HOA meetings are being held via Zoom right now and I suggest that you attend the next meeting so that you can get to know your neighbors who are near and far. Just like the dating world, it might be a challenge to meet people with the social distancing orders and everything being halted. Get creative, start by waving to your neighbors when you see them. Better yet, don’t be shy, go and introduce yourself, if you haven’t already. The beauty in relationships is that if you genuinely connect with a neighbor then the relationship will blossom organically. You won’t have to force the connection. Keep putting yourself out there until you find what you are looking for.

I’m new to the Anaverde community. I’ve been here for a little over three years now. I must say, it is cool that we have our own magazine. To say that my community has its own magazine is pretty awesome so thank you. That’s not what this letter is about. I am writing because as I mentioned, I moved here about three years ago. It is me and my husband, we love our home but we don’t really have any friends here. I think that I’m a pretty friendly person but you wouldn’t know it since the neighbors and I don’t really talk. I would like more friends in the community but I’m not sure where to start or how to make that happen? Do you have any suggestions? Feeling friendless in Anaverde, Sarah Dear Sarah, First, thank you for sharing your excitement about the new magazine. We are pretty excited to have this opportunity to serve the community in this way :) Secondly, welcome to the neighborhood! I know that it can feel a little lonely when you move to a new area, especially if you moved from an area that was farther away. The good news is Anaverde Hills does offer quite a few social engagements for the community through the planning committee of the Homeowner’s Association (HOA). We haven’t been able to socialize since the COVID-19 pandemic but before that, there

Bringing Up Teenage Stepkids

Dear Anaverde Magazine, I’ve been married for six years. I have a four-year-old with my husband and I co-parent a 13 and a 15-year-old from my husband’s previous marriage. I love being a new mom and being a step-mom to my husband’s kids. I feel that my husband is allowing his ex wife to cause problems in our home. His kids agreed to come live with us while his ex wife focuses on getting her life together. The teenagers have lived with us for two months but it hasn’t been easy. They don’t listen to

me and always go to their dad whenever I ask them to clean up their space like make the bed or wash their clothes. This makes me feel like an outsider in my own home. My husband said that he will talk to them but nothing changes. It may be just me but it seems like after every phone call with their mom, they have an attitude with me. I think that she is up to something. I don’t have a relationship with her so I will never know. What should I do about this situation? Feeling disrespected by my stepkids, Alexa Hi Alexa, Wow! Thanks for sharing your story. I want to commend you for taking on this role. I can sense from your letter that you truly want to be a good bonus mom to your two teenage children. Blended families are not always easy. I am only sharing advice based on what I would do if I were in this situation or what I have witnessed through other blended family experiences that have been shared with me. To keep my thoughts crystal clear, I am going to list the steps that I recommend. After reading this list, listen to your heart and do what feels right for you and your family. Here are my suggestions: 1.

Find some time away from the home, maybe go to the park with your husband and share your concerns. Have this conversation privately. Just share how you feel. 2. Don’t expect your husband to take sides. That is not what this is about. You simply want order and respect. 3. Make sure that you and your

husband are on one accord about the chores that are expected of the teens. 4. Talk to your husband about being the enforcer of these expectations so that you don’t appear to be the “evil” stepmother. 5. Find a time for you and your husband to have a nice sit down with the teens. No accusing or insulting, just simply going over expectations while living in your home. 6. Children unconsciously love boundaries so set them. Talk to them about them and inform them about what happens if they don’t abide by them. 7. Don’t worry about how they act when they get off of the phone with their mother. They are children, they don’t know any better. You are an adult, fully developed. Ignore their attitude and send them love, even the mother. I could add another 20 or so tips to this list but I will stop at seven. These are all things that you most likely already know. You just needed me to remind you. Also, see a therapist to nourish your sanity. Having a solid person to just talk to can do wonders for you and give you the peace of mind that you want.

Race Relations 101 for Small Children

Dear Anaverde Magazine,

I’m sure that you all are well aware of the racial unjust that has been brought to the forefront over the last few months. I am a Caucasian female with elementary aged children. I try to keep them from consuming too much

information about what’s going on because I’m not sure how to answer any questions that they may have. However, I couldn’t hide the fact that there was a lynching right here in Palmdale a few months ago. We were outraged and upset. My children and I didn’t understand why? We talked about the incident and watched the protests only to find out that it was labeled a suicide. While either situation is unfortunate, how can I not get caught up in the media hoopla of it all. Especially when no one really has all the facts at first. In the meantime, my family is stressed out. What is the best way to balance the talk about race relations? Feeling confused about race in the news, Kelly

Instagram or simply Google ways to have this much needed, yet kid friendly conversation. You know your children better than anyone. Use this knowledge to gauge how much information you should share with them about the topic. Whatever you do, don’t sugarcoat it. Be real but sensitive. Avoid saying things like, “We don’t see color” or “ We are all the same.” This simply is misleading and doesn’t deliver the knowledge that you want your children to have about race. Lastly, limit the amount of hard news media that you have playing in the home. You get to control the message with presenting the material via the kid friendly resources that I discussed earlier. You got this!

Hi Kelly, This is a loaded question. I can feel your concern and dismay. Navigating the news media can be a doozy. Especially when you have small children, who may ask questions. We’re all home together more now than ever and that is a good thing. At least you can control the narrative and not have to worry about kids talking about things at school. It was very concerning that there was a lynching her in Palmdale. While it doesn’t make it better that it was proven to be a homicide, it still raises the question about the upset of racial inequality that has been going on for years and years. As an African American woman, I encourage you to have the conversation with your children as the issues come up. If you don’t feel educated enough to speak on the topic, you can go to PBS, The Conscious Kid on

Letters to the Editor are for informational purposes only, do not constitute medical advice, and are not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Always seek the advice or counsel of your physician, mentalhealth professional, or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. By submitting a letter, you are agreeing to let Anaverde Magazine use it in part or in full and we may edit it for length and/or clarity. Need Advice or Have Something to Share? Visit anaverdemagazine.com to submit your Letter to the Editor or email hello@anaverde-magazine.com

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Editor’s Picks A Fresh Dose of Beauty and Affordability

A Look at These Trader Joe’s

Spa Inspired Finds

Grapefruit & Lemon Hand Sanitizer

efore the COVID-19 pandemic, I was already head over heels for a great hand sanitizer. While many stores were low on supply for this quick fix of cleanliness, I was surprised to find this cobalt blue mini sized spray on the shelf at Trader Joe’s. I first spotted the supply right in the beauty aisle during my weekly Trader Joe’s run. The terms grapefruit and lemon speak for themselves. That is exactly what the mist of spray smells like. Not too overbearing but definitely a spritz of fresh air. I must admit, you may be tempted to overspray this lightweight sanitizer thinking that it will get your hands thoroughly clean but don’t. You just gotta trust the process. Just spritz each hand and go. No muss. No fuss.

Nourish All-In-One Facial Cleanser

he sister to the all-in-one facial cleanser. This scent free formula is just right for someone needing a little moisture without overdoing it. I recommend using this moisturizer in tandem with the cleanser. I couldn’t imagine using the moisturizer solo but that’s your call. Again, this product is perfect if you are looking for a simple way to moisturize your face without the heavy oil. This may even be perfect if you have light to moderate acne and need a moisturizer that gets the job done less the heavy fragrance.

Spa Face Wash With Tea Tree Oil

hhh the amazing scent transports you to your favorite spa right in the comfort of your home. The rich lather and refreshing scent takes self care to a whole new level. Beware, the tea tree oil seems to zap out your natural oil so you’ll want to have a nice face moisturizer or vitamin c serum on hand to replenish the skin. This spa wash is fun to use but will leave your skin feeling high and dry.

Blueberry & Acai Facial Scrub

et me just say, I’m in love! I discovered this fruit smoothie treasure on my own. Yes, I saw this little jar on the shelf and when I read blueberry and acai, I wanted to know more immediately! I grabbed it and couldn’t wait to experience this goodness. Yes, it is goodness in a jar. It is a good idea to gently cleanse your face first, then indulge in this aromatic facial spa. Smells so good, you’ll want to eat it but it tastes salty so don’t. Gently massage the facial scrub, then leave it on for a few minutes or however long you’d like, then rinse. Your skin will feel instant rejuvenation and you’ll witness a natural glow. Trader Joe’s really outdid themselves with this one!

Nourish All-In-One Facial Moisturizer

imple, clean and to the point. That’s the only way to describe this all-in-one cleanser, packed with antioxidants. Full disclosure, if you suffer from moderate to heavy acne, I do not recommend. This is not an acne fighting formula but it is perfect if you are in need of a light wash that won’t overdry your skin or burn your eyes.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Family

Dating After Divorce

Three Ways to Tell Your Kids You Are Dating Again by Rosalind Sedacca

e all know divorce creates havoc in any family’s life, especially when children are involved. Moving on after divorce can also be challenging. It’s a time to be very gentle, both with yourself as well as with your children. Chances are, you made a considerable emotional investment in your marriage. Having seen that relationship fail can make you insecure about facing new relationships ahead. But if you take the time to go within, learn from your mistakes, understand the lessons from your marriage and determine new ways to approach future relationships, at some point, you will feel ready to step back out into the dating world again.

Then you face the challenge of breaking the news to your children. The age of your children will play a big part in how to talk to them about your starting to date. The rapport you have with them and the closeness within your relationship with them will also play a part in this challenging conversation. Remember, your children are smarter than you think. They can pick up on your emotions and when you’re telling untruths. It’s best, to be honest about your feelings regarding bringing another potential partner into your life. But be very sensitive about their emotions on this topic. Let your children know you’re healing,

feeling better about yourself and are now ready to explore meeting new friends. Remind them how much you love them, how important they are in your life, and that dating has nothing to do with replacing them – ever! Explain that you will still be the attentive parent you’ve always been and that they always come first in your life. Be very clear that no one will ever replace their other parent either! You may need to have this conversation many times over several weeks or months to give your children time to digest the concept and express how they feel about what you are saying. Encourage them to ask questions and share their opinions. Be patient and understanding of their

perspective, even if you don’t agree with it. Don’t introduce your children to every new person you date. You can let them know that you are going out with friends every once in a while, if they ask, but don’t bring causal relationship partners into their world. This can be confusing for children and disappointing for them if the new partner they meet disappears or gets replaced a few weeks or months later. When you do find a partner, you are seriously involved with, prepare the children in advance for the first meetings. Spend short intervals together and let the exposure build over time. Ask them for their feedback. Discuss their feelings. Watch how

your partner behaves with them. Make sure that your children never feel threatened by the thought that they are losing their mom or dad to a stranger. How you approach adding a new partner into your life will affect your long-term relationship with the children. So be careful, considerate and empathetic in all your actions. Make sure you choose a partner who treats your children well. Children who have close relationships with both biological parents are more likely to accept a new parent partner into their lives without distress. Because they feel safe in their relationship with mom and dad, they are less likely to be threatened by a new adult entering the picture. When one biological parent disrespects and

disparages the other parent, it puts the children on the defensive, making them much more likely to reject a new relationship partner entering the family dynamic. It is always best to take your time when transitioning into dating after divorce. Move slowly when opening the door to new relationships that will be affecting your children. Putting yourself in their place will give you insight into what it can be like to find mom or dad with a new partner. Talking with a therapist or relationship coach can be quite helpful as you transition into this next phase of your life. To learn more about this topic, visit www.childcentereddivorce.com

How to

Keep Your Children Engaged in COVID-19 Lockdown by Sonja Morgan

ue to COVID-19, swimming pools and most children’s play areas are closed. It is not life as usual. This pandemic has left both children and parents searching for ways to stay active. As a working parent, I know that it can be challenging to educate and entertain them. Here are a few ideas to help you find a balance between raising your children and working from home during a pandemic.

Books Are Happiness

Reading is a wonderful exercise that helps children develop new thoughts and engage their imagination. Reading is a brain boosting exercise. A good reader can be a good writer. The child gets exposure to understanding of language and the aesthetics of writing. The good news is that most public libraries are open for pickup. Simply reserve your books online and the library will notify you when they are available for contactless pick up.

Crafting Memories

Time to get crafty! We all love colors, paints and drawing books. Washable paint, glitter pens, play doh and kid friendly finger paint will keep your little ones busy for a while. Just keep an eye on them to ensure that they are only painting or playing with the clay in the designated area. Keep your crafts simple and fun.

Games Time

Since we are so caught up in our work life that we hardly get time in abundance. We have to be really grateful for being safe with our children. Have a dance party, play fun card games or make your own game. This time at home is a great opportunity to get creative and lighten up. Who knows when we’ll get all of this family time together again.

Watching Educational Movies

Watch educational movies and online programs together. There are so many options. Perhaps, you can make a whole event out of the activity by having your children pick the movie they want to watch, create tickets to attend the movie and choose the snacks. It is a good idea to be consistent with movie night. It gives everyone something to look forward to each week.

Take baby steps. Choose one and have fun with it. Then, when you feel comfortable, incorporate another idea. The key is to pace yourself and know that everyday isn’t going to be perfect. The best thing that you can do is breathe, work when you are working, and play with your children when you are playing with them. Try your best not to multitask. Multitasking usually causes so much unnecessary stress.

Assign Everyone a Job

Have fun!

Involve your children in the daily chores, no matter how small they are. They will not only learn how to help you, they will also feel empowered. Assign them small tasks like filling up water bottles, getting their dishes into the sink, cleaning their room after playing and filling the dog’s water bowl.

Get Physically Fit Together

Children make the best workout partners. Carve out time in your schedule to do yoga together, meditation or a fun YouTube workout. You can also go to the local park and play tag. This is a great way to introduce the benefits of staying active and healthy. Physical fitness is a great immunity booster as well.

Get Things Cooking

We have to eat. Try cooking meals with your children. Cooking and eating is an amazing bonding activity. You can even tell them the health benefits of vital fruits and vegetables. This way, they will know the importance of a balanced diet. Teach them the nutritional value of food. Talk to them about how to differentiate between healthy and unhealthy snacks. Lastly, don’t expect to complete all of these ideas in one day or one week.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Family

Five Questi o ns to Ask Yourself About

Your Child’s Engagement With Tech by Janice Taylor

hen I started to write this article I thought about safety; all of the important things you need to know about how to keep your children safe in this digital age; how to protect them from negativity, etc, etc. Then I thought, NO! We need to think about how we as parents engage with our kids about technology, engage in technology and how YOU are the most important innovation in the technology spaces your children visit. Here is a really simple list of 5 things you need to ask YOURSELF about your child’s engagement in technology.

1. Are You Ok With People Telling Your Children Who And What They Are, Without Your Permission? Before you answer this question, stop and think about it. If you are walking around the grocery store with your kids and each stranger decided to stop and tell your child what “they” thought of them, would you be ok with that? If your answer is no, then this is your very first litmus test. Can the technology spaces your child visits alter their opinion of themselves?

Almost all spaces today are designed for full disclosure, full transparency, with zero accountability. We can plead with the powers that be to protect our children in these spaces, but there is no motivation for them to comply. We as adults grimace at what happens to us in these spaces, we find it hard to comprehend, process or return from the brink of the Internet’s cruelty. Yet we expose our kids? So the question to ask yourself, when you give your child a device, are you ok with the world telling your child what they think of them? If not, get educated about where they go, whom they talk to and what they are learning about themselves…all without your permission.

2. Do Your Feelings Get Hurt In The Social Spaces Of Technology?

If you answer no, then you are living in a bubble and you cannot be helpful for your child. We as parents must bravely walk first in the spaces our children go. We must be the first to turn the light on to show them there is no boogie man in the closet. We must be the first to try the food if it is too hot for them to eat. We must go first. If any of these spaces seem hurtful or offensive for you, then imagine your precious kids who a) are not old enough to understand and b) have no idea that this is not real? Yes, you are the true guide for the technology galaxy. You are your child’s first line of defense. It is your job. Yes parents, you must go first.

3. If Your Child Can Walk Does That Make Them Capable Of Driving Your Car? Seems extreme? Not really and here is why. Motor function and emotional understanding live in two separate parts of the brain. One part of their brain lives in Tokyo and the other part in the deep vast ocean unsure of its depth and potential. It’s underdeveloped, uncertain and rather mysterious. For most adults it is still a vast ocean of emotional understanding; for children it literally does not exist.

Many types of technology spaces are where things are introduced before the child has a chance to fully develop their brain. In the famous line from A Few Good Men, “you can’t handle the truth”, no really, children cannot handle the false truths on the Internet, because they do not have the capacity to discriminate what hurts them and what helps them. They are emotionally not ready, period. My current tech counterparts would have all of us convinced that the technology superhighway is a good thing. In fact, children can “process” information so much better than the previous generation, we are making “smarter” kids! Children can navigate technology far swifter than any baby boomer so we assume the child is ready for the Internet. WRONG! It’s a terrible assumption that so many of us have made and continue to make. The better question is why do so many tech leaders want us (parents) to believe this?

Emotionally, children and adults spend much of their lives growing, developing and mapping their emotional basis of understanding. If you admit it, you are still growing as a person, learning to love yourself. Children do not have a fighting chance when it comes to emotional understanding and intelligence if they are told too young how to be (often negatively) or are not in spaces where they are nurtured, loved and cared for, this harms them. It alters their being. So parents I ask you, if it hurts you how much do you think your children are hurt?

4. Do You Want Your Kids To Be Like You? During a recent discussion with some very dedicated mothers, the topic turned to screen time, screen time during dinner and late night screen time. Many were complaining about screen time at the dinner table. As I listened to the women talk about their very real concerns, three quarters of them drifted to their phones during the conversation when it was not centered on them. Many started to text and post to Facebook during the conversation. Hmm…despite all of our real concerns about our children, one thing is for certain: Do as I say, not as I do.

addiction. Set the standard of behavior for everyone in the house, your children will be so unbelievably excited to engage with you, you will not have time to take a picture and post it. Be present for your kids, be available and show them by your own actions who you are, so they can learn who they are. No device in the world should ever replace YOU in this magical innovative world.

5. Do The Tech Spaces Your Children Go To Show Them Their Awesomeness?

When I was a child I remember that many of my teachers, coaches and my mother were really big on resiliency. Kids need to learn

then tell us how our children compare on reading, math and comprehension with the other kids. We as parents begin to compare notes and we all get tangled up in this big old mess of comparison. Then children go on spaces where they compare photos, likes, friends, lives, scores, posts, you name it. They are caught in a web of comparative psychosis that takes their time away and beats the crap out of the shred of self-esteem you, the parent, are trying to build. The pervasiveness of this technology is not just its use; it is how powerfully insidious, almost invisible at first, possibly “harmless” it can appear to the most unsuspecting eye. It eventually numbs most people to the point that you are feeding the hungry monster and you don’t even know it.

If we are not willing to change our habits regarding our technology use, how do we really expect our children to learn? You set the standard of practice of your screen time use in your home.

If we are not willing to change our habits regarding our technology use, how do we really expect our children to learn? Full stop. This bandaid ripping off is going to hurt. You set the standard of practice of your screen time use in your home. Prior to us becoming grossly over absorbed in our Facebook posts, Instagramming our lives or Twittering out our thoughts, people were actually present to their lives. Your children really do not know any different. We the general populace introduce them to screens, we then introduce them to the overuse of the devices and we progressively disconnect from our own lives as we lose the ever alluring battle of the pure addiction to gossip. We lose our precious time exploring other people’s lives all the while teaching our children: How to Use the Device. However, if you begin to scale back your own use, monitor your own

to be resilient. We have “trophy” kids and “helicopter” parenting. Maybe there are instances where this is true and valid. However, in technology, particularly in social/ social gaming spaces, the power of the pervasiveness on their brains is beyond much of what we experienced as children that these arguments really do need a footnote.

Technology does have the power to show kids their awesomeness, if we are wise with the use; monitor the comparative loop and parents go to the spaces first. There are a million places in the world that now tell our children they do not measure up. Children are pretty stocked up in the resiliency department. Spend an afternoon on Instagram, Snapchat or AskFM and you will see the battle ground that our children navigate.

Technology is not for the faint of heart. Work with your children to develop a strong sense of core values, love and self-esteem. Show them WHO THEY TRULY ARE, before the world tells them differently. Be vigilant about it, you’re their parent. Tech companies who make these technologies are not typically built to protect kids. They are not designed for a child’s maximum holistic emotional benefit because they were NEVER meant for kids.

Technology and most of the social spaces take most people through the cycle of comparative psychosis (not a true medical term, it is one I made up). As a tech entrepreneur, mother with a background in Psychology, I am deeply aware what part of the technology is wreaking havoc on my core self-esteem that I can witness what it is doing to my kids. Comparative psychosis is the first time children start to notice people in their classrooms. How they compare to other kids. Well intended teachers

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Fashion and Beauty

Skin Rules Expert Secrets for Great Skin by Madison Pados with Special Guest Dr. Debra Jaliman

hether you are 14 or 40 – we all want great skin! I partnered with natural glow expert and top New York dermatologist Debra Jaliman, MD, to share insider tips and tricks for having flawless skin.

cotton washcloth or disposable cotton pad and a cleanser or with the use of a soft electric brush. Be sure to take certain precautions depending on your skin type. Never over scrub or be too rough. This can aggravate the skin and cause more complications.

applications once a week to maintain color since we are constantly shedding top layer skin cells. Spray on tan mists can be inhaled and have a tendency to go on unevenly. Creams, mousses and lotions are safer and are usually applied with greater success.

“Few people have naturally perfect skin, but whatever skin you were born with can be made to look better, usually a whole lot better. What everybody should aim for is their own best skin, the kind that gets compliments and has a healthy glow,” said Dr. Jaliman.

If you are using a machine and have delicate skin, make sure that you select an appropriate brush. If you have normal or oily skin, use a scrub with fine granules or microspheres once or twice a week.

Use disposable gloves or wash hands immediately after application to avoid the dreaded orange palms.

Over the years, Dr. Jaliman has compiled an extensive list of ‘skin rules’ that are designed to help people navigate beauty aisles in stores and ask the right questions during dermatologist visits. Here are the ones that you should know.

Rule 1: Wash Your Face Correctly.

Your fingers are not enough and will not get your skin really clean. Fingers can’t exfoliate and besides, fingernails harbor bacteria. Instead, use a fresh washcloth, cotton pads or a facial sponge every time you wash your face. Rub gently, don’t scrub, particularly around the nose and on the neck. Cleaning gadgets are highly recommended and can remove more makeup, dirt and oil than manual cleansing.

Rule 2: Exfoliate, Exfoliate, Exfoliate.

Even the best skin in the world will look dull if it is not well exfoliated. You can exfoliate on a daily basis with your

Toners and pads with alpha hydroxy acids or salicylic acid work well if you are averse to using abrasive scrubs. Don’t grind your face, a toner or pad is meant to be gently wiped once over the face.

Rule 3: For That Real, Tanned Look, Fake It.

Twenty years ago, when the first selftanners made people look like giant pumpkins, it was understandable when people avoided the “fake bake.” But nowadays self-tanners are so good, there’s no excuse for permanently damaging your skin under the sun. Experiment with a few tricks until you get your desired look. Before applying a self-tanner, always exfoliate first in the shower with a washcloth or a nylon mesh sponge. Since self-tanners take a few hours for their darkening effect to mature, pick your shade carefully by choosing a tone that would look like your skin, but with a light tan. Avoid a dramatically different look. It will always appear unnatural. Repeat

Rule 4: Beware Of Bacteria And Steer Clear Of Testers.

I’ve seen a surprising number of patients whose acne failed to improve until they actually started washing their applicators. Keep in mind that bacteria builds up quickly on any surface, particularly one that comes

into contact with your skin. This is especially important to remember with eye applicators. Avoid harmful infections by keeping clean and avoiding germs.

is treatable, it is a recurrent infection and one you will have to live with for the rest of your life.

dose I recommend is 500 mg daily. Add lemon or lime to a cup of green tea to increase its effectiveness.

Wash your make-up brushes and sponges at least once a week. Using baby shampoo is fine. Just make sure to get it all out and let your applicators dry completely.

Rule 5: Drink Green Tea. Lots Of It.

Sometimes it seems that every week scientists discover new benefits to drinking green tea. We now know that it aids weight loss by boosting metabolism, for example, but there is increasing evidence that green tea also has very specific effects on the skin. It is full of polyphenols, antioxidants that appear to prevent skin cancer and protect against free radicals that age the skin. If you haven’t already, introduce green tea into your daily routine.

Green tea is also an antiinflammatory agent. Apply a cooled portion to soothe irritated skin or a mild sunburn. Bottled green tea may taste good, but it doesn’t have the same benefits as freshly brewed tea.

Never, never use another person’s mascara, or even worse, store testers that others have used. At the cosmetics counter, test make-up on your wrist and arm. Don’t even think of using that tester lipstick on your mouth. Better to throw out a new lipstick that turned out to be the wrong shade than risk a herpes infection on your face. I have seen patients with herpes on their lips and eyelids they got from testers and it is not a pretty sight. Although herpes

Green tea is a preventative remedy. Start drinking it at an early age on a daily basis. Four cups of green tea a day is ideal, but standardized green tea supplements work well too. The

I have become such a fan of green tea that I not only drink several cups a day, I also offer it to patients in my practice. One thing I have learned, though: don’t drink green tea (or anything with caffeine) after 5 p.m. if you want a good night’s sleep. That goes for chocolate, too. Debra Jaliman, MD, author of Skin Rules: Trade Secrets from a Top New York Dermatologist, is a board certified dermatologist with a private practice in New York City.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Fashion and Beauty

Casual Dresses That Simply Never Go Out of Style by Cathy Habas

ith all the things going on in the world today, it is becoming more challenging to keep up with the latest style and fashion trends. Is lace “in” this year? Are long skirts still trending? Who knows! When you do finally stop to shop for yourself, it is important to buy clothes that not only make you feel good but that will still look nice for years to come, no matter what happens on the runways. A capsule collection or investment pieces that stand the test of time is the ultimate wardrobe collection. This month, I want to focus on casual dresses that simply never go out of style. A dress is such an easy piece. No fuss about what top to wear or trousers. A nice dress is a quick and easy way to look put together with little to no effort. Here are a few styles to consider adding to your wardrobe:

The Maxi Dress

The full-length skirt of a maxi dress can be an absolute luxury. A maxi dress lets you enjoy feeling feminine without having to go through all the work to really pull off the look. Do your knees need moisturizing? Probably, but no one has to know! Many maxi dresses have a loose, flowing design that won’t hug your body, so there’s no need to worry about any tummy rolls either. Choose from an endless supply of patterns and colors to find one that speaks to your personality. Then just enjoy the fabric swirling around you, which is perfect for summer and fall months.

The Swing Dress

Swing dresses are another basic style that is always a hit. Swing dresses usually have an A line and will often hug the curves from your waist line up, but the fabric of the skirt will billow and flow below your waist. Swing dresses come in all skirt lengths and one with a simple design and modest neckline will never go out of style. This dress is capable of giving you a professional, casual and an elegant look. Just a few small accessory changes to dress it up or down. Super classy and simple.

The Shift Dress

Shift dresses have straight lines that run the full length of the dress, meaning that this style won’t cling to your curves. It is a flowy, comfortable dress that flatters any wearer. If you are tired of wearing jeans all the time and would like to dress up your look, try a shift dress. The design is slimming and you will feel confident no matter your body shape.

The Sweater Dress

Take care of your sweater dresses and they will take care of you for years! Many sweater dresses are body conforming, but for a longerlasting look, choose a style that is loose. At best, it will remain loose and swishy and fun. At worst, it will edge closer to the body-conforming style of sweater dresses. In both scenarios, you win! A sweater dress often has a short skirt and if you like you can pair it with skinny jeans or leggings to keep yourself extra warm and modest. Who doesn’t love an oversized sweater in chilly weather?

The Skater Midi Dress

This dress style will save the day when you need to wear something formal or borderline elegant. It is a basic, classic style that can be dressed up or down based on how you wear your hair, an up-do instantly makes this look like a ball gown, whereas wearing your hair down keeps it casual and the accessories you pair with it. The A-line pleated skirt, which is where the “skater” name comes from, since it mimics the skirts worn by ice skaters, twirls and bounces but does not glue itself to your skin. The skirt also reaches your knees, which is always a good choice for events with a more formal tone. However, it is also casual enough for you to put on and feel like a princess for a day, whether it’s running errands, attending meetings or picking up the kids.

The Bodycon Dress

If you’ve reached a certain point in your life and can still pull off the body-conforming look, you probably know that you are one of a lucky few! Go rock that style in your daily life. If you’re a little hesitant, try a patterned dress or one that uses layers of fabric to soften the overall look. The kneelength skirt also helps give this bodycon dress a more grown-up look. You no longer have to wait until date night or a special occasion to put on a dress. Try some of these casual styles for everyday wear. The right dress is all you need for a little pick-me-up. Wear your look around the house, on your next Zoom call meeting or special event.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Food

Halloween Twiggy Treats: Caramel Apples by The Sugar Mommas

fter glancing through an old issue of Southern Living, we were inspired by their caramel apples. We decided to let our kids loose in the backyard in search of twigs and this recipe is what we conjured up with some caramel and our imaginations. While your little ones don their costumes, try dressing up some fruit to make these delicious sweet treats for the holiday.

Ingredients: ● 5 medium tart apples (such as Granny Smith or Pippin) ● Assortment of twigs ● Toppings (such as crushed Oreos, graham cracker crumbs, or Heath Bar bits)** ● 1 (11 ounce) package Kraft Premium Caramel Bits ● 2 tablespoons water Directions: Wash, dry, and de-stem the apples. Rinse the twigs under water and set them aside to dry. Line a baking sheet with wax or parchment paper. Place crushed toppings in separate bowls. Place the Caramel Bits and the water in a medium glass bowl (or other microwave-safe dish). Microwave on high for 2 minutes. Remove the bowl from the microwave (being careful not to burn yourself, as it will be hot). Stir the caramel with a wooden spoon until all the bits are melted. Let the caramel sit 1-2 minutes until it is thick enough to coat an apple. You don’t want the caramel to be too runny or the coating will drip off. Gently use a knife to cut a small “X” in the top of an apple where the stem was. Gently push the twig down into the center of the apple. Carefully swirl the apple in the caramel making sure it is completely coated. You may need to spoon the caramel around the top rim. Let the caramel drip off the bottom of the apple. Then roll the apple in the desired topping(s). Once coated, place the apple on the waxed paper to set for a minimum of 30 minutes to one hour (if the kids can wait that long!). Enjoy your twiggy treat or store it in the refrigerator. **Sass it Up: You may also want to use mini chocolate chips, vanilla chips, butterscotch chips, crushed ginger snaps or crushed Nilla Wafers on your apples. Use whatever tickles your fancy.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Food

Simple Pumpkin Pulp Recipes T

he smell of roasting pumpkin seeds is the second best part of carving Jack o’ Lanterns for Halloween…the first best thing is, of course, carving funny faces into a pumpkin. While you probably have a family recipe for turning your pumpkin’s guts into a tasty treat, we have a few new ideas for you to test out. You might even start a new Halloween tradition recipe!

by Laura Scalone

Two-Ingredient Pumpkin Muffins Pumpkin Seed Brittle

Homemade Pumpkin Puree

Ingredients: ● Pumpkin seeds ● 1 cup granulated sugar ● Pumpkin Pie Spice ● Salt

Ingredients: ● Pumpkin guts ● Lemon juice

Directions: After letting the seeds dry in the oven at 250 for 4 hours with a light sprinkle of salt, boil 1 cup of sugar with a pinch of salt and a healthy sprinkle of pumpkin pie spice. On a cookie sheet covered with wax paper, evenly spread out the seeds. Then, drizzle the warm syrup over the pan so it covers all the seeds. Once it cools, it’ll be good and hard. Crack it up into bite sized chunks, and enjoy!

Directions: With the seeds sorted from the gooey pumpkin meat, you have the beginnings of a great pumpkin puree. None of that canned puree for you! Steam the innards over boiling water for 30 minutes. Using a food processor and a healthy squeeze of lemon juice, create a puree. The lemon juice prevents freezer burn, so you can keep it longer. This puree can be used for all sorts of fabulous breads, pies, shakes, soups, etc. You can even serve the puree as a side dish with brown sugar and pumpkin pie spice. Mmm!

Ingredients: ● 1 box of Duncan Hines Spice Cake ● 15 oz. pureed pumpkin Directions: Preheat the oven to 350. Mix these two ingredients together. Spoon batter into muffin cups and bake for 20 to 25 minutes. This recipe yields 18 to 24 muffins depending on how much you spoon into each cup. For a special treat, “frost” the muffins with a smidge of whipped cream cheese. Yummy!

Food

The Health Benefits of

Drinking Kombucha by Ana Blackburn

ombucha, pronounced kuhm boo chuh , is a drink with an age-old recipe originating in the far east. The Chinese referred to it as the Immortal Health Elixir. In recent years, Kombucha has become popular with the health conscious looking for an alternative to fizzy drinks packed with artificial sweeteners and red dye whatever! At first glance, you might just think Kombucha is a fizzy, yellow, sour liquid that happens to be really fun to say. But with greater focus on health, especially gut health in recent years, this ancient recipe with perceived health benefits has gained immense popularity in the lives of the modern person. Kombucha is a fermented drink made from black tea and sugar – either cane sugar, fructose or honey. A symbiotic culture of bacteria and yeast, known as SCOBY, is added to begin fermentation. The drink ferments and carbonates, making it fizzy like a soda. The end product contains vinegar, vitamins from the B group, probiotics, and acids, including acetic, gluconic and lactic acid. The bacteria in SCOBY also produce cellulose within the drink which acts as a shield to cells.

Benefit #1:

Restore The Gut

Kombucha makes a difference in your body. One of the immediate effects of the drink comes from the probiotics found in it. Probiotics are the good bacteria that colonize your gut and help all the food be digested and utilized by the body. They also fight infections before they even reach any other place within the body. This is because 80% of the immune system is located in your gut. The combination of probiotics, amino acids and enzymes support digestion and prevent stomach ulcers. If you suffer from candida overgrowth, the

drink can help restore the balance within the digestive tract and repopulate the gut with good bacteria that pushes out candida.

cardiovascular diseases as well as by healthy individuals, on a daily basis. That’s pretty awesome, right?

Benefit #2:

Help Detox The Body

Antibiotic Without The Antibiotics The beneficial bacteria in kombucha drives out bad bacteria from the gut, the first gate through which bacteria enter the body.

Benefit #3:

Improve Your Mental State

Kombucha is rich in B vitamins. Particularly B12, a rare vitamin, is responsible for increased energy levels and overall mental well being. The restoring properties that Kombucha brings to the gut also improve your mindset. This is because an unhealthy gut can become permeable to undigested food particles that once inside the body cause inflammation, and feeling bad.

Benefit #4:

Keep Blood Sugar Under Control

Due to the antioxidants found in Kombucha, the drink claims to alleviate symptoms of diabetes. The Kombucha drink is made from an anti-diabetic black tea. This tea improves liver and kidney functions, essential to tackling the symptoms of diabetes.

Benefit #5:

Supports The Heart

Kombucha has a positive effect on the whole cardiovascular system. High triglycerides in the body are linked with an increased risk for heart disease. Kombucha lowers triglyceride levels and regulates cholesterol. A Indian research group completed a study on rats in 2016 and found that Kombucha can be recommended for consumption by people suffering from

Benefit #6:

The Kombucha drink is a powerful additive when doing a detox. The antioxidants in the drink boost the functions of the liver and help cope with all the harmful toxins. During a detox regime, the liver is even more overloaded with the constant need to take out toxins from the body so the Kombucha drink can be a benefit during this process.

More To Consider...

With all the health perks of the drink Kombucha, there are some risks to using it. Pregnant and breastfeeding women are advised to stay away from it as well as people who have an extremely weakened immune system. Kombucha is not something that can be taken in unlimited quantities. Drinking too much Kombucha can give you a stomach ache and cause nausea. Although Kombucha can be produced at home, it is safer to buy it from a certified producer, since the production factories take care to maintain extremely clean equipment with which the drink is made. It is harder to maintain a sterile environment inside the home. Although few formal studies of the drink have been conducted and most of those have been on animals, the beneficial results claimed by people for thousands of years appear to make this drink a good addition to your healthy lifestyle plan.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Home Design How to Pick the

Perfect Pumpkin for Your Fall Decorations

by Anaverde Magazine

he best part about October is the crisp, fall weather, even in the Antelope Valley, usually after 5 p.m. It is also a treat to visit the local grocery store or pumpkin patch to choose the perfect pumpkin for carving. No matter your fall passion, carving, creating harvest displays or cooking, there’s a perfect pumpkin for the job. There is a method in selecting the best gourd for your fall decorating plans. For the best selection and the most fun, visit a local farm to pick your pumpkin. Selecting pumpkins can easily become a family tradition when you find a farm that teams pumpkin fields with other autumn favorites, such as a corn maze and hayrides. There might be a shortage of the latter activities since many of the farms have put a halt on the number of visitors that are allowed on site due to COVID-19 restrictions. Typically, going to an actual pumpkin farm offers more variety and often better quality. Before you pick a pumpkin, decide how you’ll use it. For carving, look for pumpkins with flat walls – no deep ribs. The variety of Jack O’ Lanterns was developed specifically for carving. Avoid tall, oblong pumpkins, which typically have stringy flesh that makes placing precise cuts difficult. White-skinned, orange-fleshed Lumina is also easy to carve.

If you are choosing a pumpkin for cooking, choose pumpkins specified for cooking or baking. These are usually smaller fruits (4-8 pounds with higher sugar content and denser, more smooth flesh. Common varieties include Small Sugar and New England Pie Pumpkin. Look for newcomers Baby Pam, Ghost Rider and Lumina (white skin). For seasonal display pumpkins, select a mix of pumpkin sizes and colors. Goosebumps has warty skin that adds a creepy effect to displays. Small pumpkins like Baby Bear (orange), Baby Boo (white) and Orange Cutie (bright orange with light orange ribs) complement larger fruit and are the perfect choice for small hands.

Pumpkin-Picking Checklist ● U-pick farms provide the freshest choice. Supermarket pumpkins can be bruised from handling and traveling. When hand-picking a pumpkin, bring gloves and clippers. Leave at least one inch of stem on pumpkins. ● When buying pre-picked pumpkins, look for a stem that’s solidly attached. Green stems reveal a pumpkin that’s just been picked. ● Inspect pumpkins for skin damage (punctures, nicks, cuts), soft spots or mold – signs that spoiling will occur quickly. ● Check the bottom of the pumpkin during your spot inspection, pressing on it with your thumbs. If it gives a little, the pumpkin isn’t fresh. ● Set a pumpkin you plan to carve on

a flat surface to be sure it sits upright. ● Old pumpkins have duller skin. This is fine for a cooking pumpkin, but not ideal for carving or display. ● If you plan to carve, choose a design before choosing a pumpkin, especially if you are using stencils. Find a pumpkin shape that suits your design.

Storing and Displaying Your Pumpkin ● Never lift a pumpkin by its stem. Once it breaks and falls off, it creates a wound that allows spoiling to occur. ● Bring pumpkins indoors if frost is predicted. Cold weather damages pumpkins. ● For indoor displays, protect surfaces by placing pumpkins on plastic, a platter or other impervious surface. ● To preserve carved pumpkins, spray all surfaces with a pumpkin preservative or soak the carved pumpkin in a bleach solution one teaspoon of bleach per one gallon of water for eight hours. Before display, invert treated pumpkins to allow any liquid residue to drain. Disposing your pumpkin is just as important as choosing it. Once your pumpkin turns to mush, toss it on your compost pile. Chopping up the pumpkin and burying it in the pile speeds decomposition. Alternatively, bury pieces in a fallow garden area. In warm regions, bury pieces in gardens near growing plants, taking care not to disturb roots. Cheers to pumpkin season!

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Home Design With Gyms Closed, Here’s How to Create an

Affordable Home Gym by Ashley Marriott

ovid-19 hit the fitness industry hard. Gyms have been closed since mid-March and in many states they will be in the last phase of reopening. As a personal trainer and group fitness instructor, I have been inundated with texts from clients, family and friends asking how they can workout effectively at home. I want to help and despite the reality that I miss my classes, my clients, my coworkers and high fives and hugs there are real alternatives! I, like many of you, miss the variety of equipment and classes gyms offer but want to assure you that with a few simple and affordable pieces of equipment you can keep your training on track. I guarantee everyone has at least one piece of resistance equipment already – YOU! Your own body weight provides excellent resistance. Think of a push-up; many top trainers regard this as a near perfect exercise. Take a look around you, what other things are already in your house, like stairs, a chair, or water jugs? Be creative. I often train clients at their homes and some of them do have beautifully equipped home gyms, but I also train people with nothing but the little bag of tricks I bring with me – here are my top 5 inexpensive training equipment pieces:

1. Resistance Bands (With Door Anchor)

Resistance bands are excellent for upper body exercises like chest flyes, rows, triceps extensions and biceps curls.

2. Stability Ball

Stability balls are excellent for core work, hamstring extensions and you can use it like a bench for exercises like dumbbell chest press. If you’re between 5’ and 5’5” you’ll want to get a 55-cm ball, if you’re over 5’6” get a 65-cm ball.

3. Dumbbells

Dumbbells can be expensive, but you may only need one or two pairs depending on what type of training you are doing. I recommend getting one light pair (3 lbs.- 5 lbs. and a heavier pair 8 lbs.- 12 lbs.). If you already have a heavier lifting program you may need to add heavier weights or a bar with weight plates.

4. Fabric Loop Bands

Unlike rubber loop bands that can get twisted, fabric loop bands are great for squats, glute kickbacks and lateral step outs.

5. Gliders (Or Paper Plates)

Using gliders or paper plates will increase the intensity of exercises like lunges, hip bridges and knee tucks. Using a glider is also a good way to mimic exercises you do on the Pilates reformer like. The items listed above come with exercise instruction charts and with a quick search on Instagram you will find a variety of workouts for each piece of equipment.

Cardio Training

Cardio exercises like walking, biking, swimming and hiking are obviously

ideal options when the climate allows. If you need to do cardio training at home you can find many cardio workout options online, everything from kickboxing to cardio hip hop dance. It is important in these times (and always for our mental health) to focus on the good and what we have to be grateful for. To stay positive focus on these benefits of working out at home: ● No $$$ membership fees. ● Nobody cares what you look like (you can work out in your pajamas). ● No wasted time driving to and from the gym. ● No waiting in line to use sweaty equipment. ● No excuses that the gym is closed.

Home Design How to Curate the

Perfect Bed

for Your Master Bedroom by David Phoenix

ome and interior design are in a constant, ever advancing state of evolution. But since humans have sought shelter in caves, the primary purpose of our homes – shelter – has remained constant. Of all the rooms that serve this critical need, none embodies it like the master bedroom – and no single piece of furniture is more critical to rest, relaxation and rejuvenation as the master bed. Considering we spend almost a third of our lives in bed, our master bed may be the single most important piece of furniture in our homes. Here are some tips to make the right choice for yours. Follow these guidelines and you’ll sleep easy knowing you’ve actually thought through the process.

Start With A Great Foundation. The most vital part of any master bed is the mattress. Mattresses range in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. But no single mattress is right for everyone and the bed that’s best for you may not have the highest price. Personal preference is key so be prepared to invest in what’s best for you.

You Can Always Try Before You Buy.

If you feel intimidated climbing onto a mattress in a store and settling down as if about to take a nap, don’t. That’s exactly what you should do – and what the staff at any reputable establishment expects. Take enough time to determine whether a bed’s level of support is right for you. When in doubt, opt for the slightly firmer choice. Ever stay at a hotel or resort where you enjoyed an unbelievable night’s sleep atop a bed that was just

perfect? Inquire about the make of mattress the hotel provides guests. Upscale chains like the Ritz-Carlton and Westin Hotels even offer the mattresses and bedding they use for purchase, for guests who want to experience the same level of comfort at home and the investment is a lot more affordable than you might expect. Talk about luxe!

Know What You Are Hopping Into Bed With.

If you are sensitive to chemicals, pay close attention to the contents of a mattress. Research natural options like those using cotton, horsehair (which is hypoallergenic), wool and down. Many commercial mattresses contain synthetic materials like formaldehyde and polyurethane foam, which “offgas,” releasing smelly and potentially toxic volatile compounds. It’s enough to make anyone lose sleep, which is decidedly against the point when it comes to beds. If you are bothered by the smell a mattress gives off in the store, steer clear, because it’s not likely to smell better once you get it home.

Protect Your Investment.

We’ve established a good mattress is not only a worthwhile luxury but an investment as well. You should purchase a mattress protector, which guards against dander and is obviously much easier to launder than a mattress. Flipping your mattress every other month, in addition to taking a vacuum brush to its exterior, will also help your mattress stay in top condition.

In Bedding, Thread Count Counts – But Only So Much.

Thread count can be an important indicator of quality, but what matters most is what those threads are made of: specifically, the thread’s fibers. Cotton-polyester sheets may last longer, but all cotton sheets – specifically, those woven with “pima,” Supima or Egyptian long-staple cotton – will yield a softer, finer hand. Sheets are often chemically-treated to keep them from shrinking and wrinkling, but sheets labeled “purefinish” are produced without chemical treatments. What you will give up in sheen and longevity, you will gain in comfort. Consider having several sets of bedding: it will increase the longevity of each set and give you different seasonal options to help change up the look of your master bedroom. If you are concerned about cost, know that bedding does not have to cost a fortune to be fabulous

Take Cover.

The main purpose of a comforter is warmth. For this purpose, you may want to have two: one for summer and a heavier one for winter. Down is an ideal choice for an all-season comforter. When properly laundered, down will keep you cool when you want to be cool and warm when you’re hoping for a toastier slumber. Down pillows are also a luxurious place to lay one’s head, but go with a choice that provides the level of support your neck needs.

Make Sure That You Have Good Bedside Manner.

Now that your bed is outfitted to perfection, the last thing to consider is the bedside table, if you chose to have one. I do and I keep only the essentials there: soft, incandescent lighting for reading a good book, a scented candle, and my cell phone, which now serves, as it does for many, as my alarm clock. A charger, tucked away so the cord is barely visible, ensures my phone’s just as recharged and ready for the new day as I am. Sweet dreams!

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Home Design

How to Repair Scratches in Glass Tabletops by Sherie Silvera

lass tabletops are gorgeous, yet you quickly discover that even simple actions such as putting a cup of tea on top of it create unsightly scratches. Whether you have obvious marks created by your kitten’s paws, or your kids can’t seem to stop sliding their toys across the coffee top, it is a relief to know that most scratches in glass are repairable with a little effort and know-how. Before you start, make sure that the scratches are all superficial since a professional repair is necessary for deep gouges. Then, set to work using one of these three strategies that help to erase those hazy marks.

Polish It Out With Toothpaste

The same gentle abrasive qualities that allow your toothpaste to remove

surface stains on your teeth also makes it perfect for polishing out scratches in your glass. Start by cleaning your glass with your usual cleaner and a lint-free cloth. Next, dab a small amount of toothpaste on the scratch before using a damp washcloth to rub it across the surface. Use gentle movements to avoid causing more scratches. The toothpaste will gently polish away the scratches. Once you are satisfied, use a clean cloth or sponge to wash away the toothpaste, and clean the glass again for the finishing touch.

Rub Scratches Gone With Jeweler’s Rouge

No, this isn’t a special type of makeup designed for jewelry. Jeweler’s Rouge is a compound that professionals use to remove those little nicks and

scratches that accumulate on gold and silver due to normal wear and tear. With glass, jeweler’s rouge does the same thing by smoothing out surface scratches, and it can be found just about anywhere that jewelry is sold or online. To use it, clean your glass thoroughly. Then, apply the rouge to the glass using a lint-free cloth and rub it in. It may be necessary to apply more jeweler’s rouge as you go depending upon the severity of the scratches. When the marks are gone, simply wipe away the excess jeweler’s rouge and clean the glass with your favorite product.

Fill It In With Clear Nail Polish This technique works best on those scratches that are slightly too deep for paste or rouge to work but not bad enough to call in the

professionals. As always, clean the glass first so that you avoid trapping dirt or dust with the polish. A clean surface also makes it easier for you to get the nail polish to adhere to the crack. Begin your repair by opening the nail polish, and use the side of the bottle to wipe the excess polish off of the brush just like you would before doing your nails. Then, brush the clear nail polish along the scratch, and try to avoid getting excess along the edges. If you do get any outside of the scratch, use a cotton swab dipped in nail polish remover to clean it up. Allow the nail polish repairs to dry overnight, and use glass cleaner in the morning so that it looks as good as new. Knowing how to repair scratches in glass tabletops lets you extend the use of one of your favorite household objects. Since you know that minor scratches are bound to happen when you eat, do homework and play games at the table, remember these tips and never fret over an errant glass scratch again.

Lifestyle

Halloween Just Might Or Not Be Cancelled This Year by Malena Jackson

he world legit came to a screeching halt in March. Where we are today is a place that I never would have imagined for the country. COVID-19 allowed all of us to realize just how quickly life, as we know it, can change. The fall season is here and the conversation has turned from how long we should be washing our hands to whether Halloween is officially cancelled this year in Anaverde Hills? Say it isn’t so! The team at Anaverde Magazine couldn’t help but wonder, is it really safe to go trick-or-treating this year? Is it logical? Is it responsible? Los Angeles County public health officials initially “banned” trick-or-treating then after realizing that this ban would prove difficult to enforce, they reissued a new order stating that trick-ortreating is simply not recommended.

“This year, it’s just not safe to celebrate in the ways we usually do,” said Public Health Director Barbara Ferrer. “We are recommending that trick-or-treating not happen this year.” Well, trick-or-treating during a pandemic is much like everything else. If you’re going to go out, you want to keep your distance and instead of coming home and dumping the candy on the table to examine the goods, sanitize the treats before opening. I mean, is it really that serious though? Low key, I plan to give one whoosh of Lysol over the wrapped candy before I will allow my children to handle them. That is, unless they start eating pieces before we make it back home. According to the Nextdoor app, many Anaverde residents expressed concern regarding whether or not it is safe to allow children to go

door-to-door to collect candy. One mom shared that she was officially cancelling Halloween and is planning to stay in with her children and watch spooky movies and eat fun treats. A poll on the app was conducted in August. Out of the 187 residents who participated, 38% agree to cancel Halloween and 34% are still undecided. The public health revision seemed to be a relief for those, who will most likely go trick-or-treating this year. “Well to be fair, they didn’t cancel Halloween. They asked that we modify in order to keep social distancing,” said Ray Bracamontes of Anaverde. The planning committee for the Anaverde Homeowners Association (HOA) did confirm that there will be a drive through pumpkin patch for the community but that will take place days before Halloween.

No official regulations regarding Halloween have been set by the HOA at the time of this report. Anaverde Magazine did reach out to the HOA for a comment, however, they did not provide one. There will be one half of parents, who say NO to Halloween due to COVID-19, then there will be the other half, who won’t see anything wrong with going out that night. “The last time I checked, it’s not the government’s job to decide whether we can celebrate a holiday or not,” said West Ranch resident Glenda Walsh. While staying in to watch Halloween movies and eat goodies does sound enticing, I just find it hard to believe that that is what everyone is going to do. Trick-or-treating during a pandemic is no different than going to the grocery store or visiting friends at their homes. The only risk is receiving candy from people that you don’t know. The same thing goes for the grocery store, you don’t know who has been handling the goods so you want to use precaution. Should you buy candy to give out? That really is up to you. I plan to distribute candy this year. Chances are, we will have a handful of children stopping by to collect. If you’re feeling up for the challenge of distributing candy this year, maybe wear your mask, not your Halloween costume mask but your regular mask when you go to the door. If you don’t want to risk exposure, simply be kind, turn your lights off and don’t judge those who choose to come out. You can also make a sign to let trick or treaters know that you are not participating this year. Whatever you do, be nice about it. We’re all going through this together and the last thing that any of us needs is someone yelling at our children about not wanting to give them candy due to COVID-19. Save your words and kindly sit it out. The children who trick or treat in Anaverde are pretty courteous and will respect your decision. If you would rather play it safe and not trick or treat, here are some fun activities to do with your children that will make this Halloween night just as memorable:

Halloween Celebration Ideas 1. 2. 3.

Have a costume dance party at home. Wear partial costumes, with pizza and a movie. Create a candy buffet for your children. Invite family and friends over and have a costume contest for the children. Actually give a good prize like a candy basket or a $20 gift card to Target or an actual $20 bill.

Play a Halloween trivia game for adults.

Host a flip cup party in your garage with your closest friends.

Have a simple dinner and a movie.

Host a small Halloween themed potluck.

Plan a Zoom Halloween movie and commentary with friends.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Turn

Covid 15 Weight Gain

Around & Get Your “Hot” Bod Back by Michelle Borthwick

ust like the shut downs went from “15 days to slow the spread” to an ongoing shutdown with no end in sight, COVID-15 weight gain is very real and is now venturing into COVID-25 and COVID-30. First, the good news: The sooner you look to reverse weight that was gained quickly, the quicker it can be lost. So, in this article we’ll talk about simple stops to slow the spread of your waistline to get your ideal Hot Bod back.

weight, the fastest, don’t do it alone. So, grab a friend or partner and keep each other inspired, motivated and accountable!

5. Create A Sacred Space Outside Of The Kitchen.

So, how do you get reignited with your nutrition goals while “stuck” at home and doing everything else required of you? Here are seven steps to get you started:

The kitchen is often the heart of our home. We build fond memories there of sharing meals together or preparing meals for loved ones. Yet, the pandemic has led many to eat mindlessly. So, create a new favorite space in your home that is only for you. Your nest, your sacred space, your spot! Go there — instead of the kitchen — and have a cup of tea or your favorite beverage and unwind instead of stress eating. It works!

1. Get On The Scale.

6. Plan Your Meals.

The more we avoid the scale, the more we need it, so hop on. Write the number down without emotion because the scale will motivate you to start losing NOW.

2. Make Time.

All goals take time. Carve out 2030 minutes each day to focus on planning healthy meals and staying active, inspired and focusing on your motivation.

3. Create A Realistic Action Plan.

All effective plans have measurable goals, actions to take and a timeline. So ask yourself: How much weight do you realistically want to lose? How long will it take? What is your plan to get you there? What is your WHY that will motivate you when you feel stuck and want to go back to overeating?

4. Don’t Do It Alone.

As a Keto Coach for women, I know that women who lose the most

a health weight has many benefits, including boosting your mood, reducing anxiety, strengthening your immune system, and — of course — boosting your confidence!

Creating a meal plan every week makes your life easier and you won’t end up settling for unhealthy foods or feeling famished because you don’t have the right food in the house. With proper planning your diet will keep your energy up, calm your life down and ease stress. If speedy weight loss is the goal, investigate either a Keto or low carb diet with healthy proteins, fiber, fats and minimal carbs. You will get your body back in no time with this approach.

7. Mealtime Should Be Fun.

Enjoy different, nutrient dense meals. You can have a great family time experimenting with different ingredients and recipes to come up with creative and delicious meals you will all love. (And you’ll stumble upon some that are laughably bad, too! Laugh together and try another meal tomorrow!) Getting back to healthy living and

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Lifestyle

What Does It Mean When Your Partner Curses At You? by Sherie Silvera

wearing might have a proper time and place, but it can certainly be a red flag in a relationship. Here’s what it means when your partner curses at you.

Automatic Swearing

Did you know that swearing can actually be produced in two different parts of the brain? It’s true! When someone swears out of sudden frustration, the profanity is usually produced in the part of the brain that controls basic body functions. Like breathing or blinking, this type of profanity is produced without thought. If your partner constantly swears out of frustration, it might just mean he has a bad habit. However, if the profanity comes up in normal conversation and is couched in sentences directed at you, the swearing is intentional and you may have a problem.

Childish Frustration

Understanding that some folks thoughtlessly swear when frustrated, you should stop and think about why your partner might feel frustrated around you. Many times, this is a mark of an immature person. A relationship requires both people to give a little and sacrifice a little. If your partner can’t seem to give a little without launching into a swearing session, it may be time to find someone more mature.

Word Poverty

If your partner constantly swears, it may have nothing to do with you. Intuitively, people understand profanity to be a way to intensify a statement. Now and again, this may be effective. It may also be funny. However, if your partner only seems to be able to liven up his sentences by

tossing in profanity, it means he has a serious lack of vocabulary words at his disposal. He is like a chef who only knows how to pour chili pepper over every dish. If you wouldn’t tolerate a restaurant that employed a chef like that, why would you tolerate a partner that is the verbal equivalent of such a chef?

A Lack Of Intimacy

Some men swear around their friends all of the time. They might even view this kind of language as a type of bonding activity. If your partner swears like this in front of you, he may simply view you as one of the guys. Unfortunately, this may mean he isn’t interested in having a serious, loving, and intimate relationship. If your partner just wants to treat you like one of the guys, it might be time to have a serious relationship talk.

A Lack Of Respect

At the end of the day, a person who constantly swears directly at his partner isn’t being respectful. This is especially true if you have repeatedly asked your partner to stop. It shows that your partner is either oblivious to the pain he is causing you by his language or he simply doesn’t care. Either way, this is someone you probably don’t want in your life. Remember, if your partner can manage to speak to his superiors at work without resorting to crude language, he can certainly manage to do the same around you. Constant swearing in a partnership is usually a sign of trouble. Use the above guidelines to take inventory of your relationship with your partner. If the swearing continues after you do this, don’t be afraid to back out of the relationship. You deserve a partner who doesn’t resort to such language.

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Travel

COVID-19 Travel Guide:

What to Expect Where You Are Staying by Expedia

otels, vacation rentals and other lodging properties are enhancing routine cleaning procedures and putting new processes in place to help to protect you and the staff who provide services where you are staying.

Tip: When you are shopping for a place to stay, you can search for properties using enhanced cleaning practices by selecting the Enhanced cleaning filter. You can find out more about what an individual property is doing by reviewing the cleaning and safety practices section under About This Property. Our lodging partners are providing us with information regarding the following practices: ● Enhanced cleanliness measures ● Social distancing ● Other safety measures ● Cleaned with disinfectant ● Contactless check-in and check-out ● Vacancy between guest room stays ● Hand sanitizer provided ● Personal protective equipment provided ● Personal protective equipment worn by staff ● Social distancing ● Temperature checks ● Individually-wrapped food options ● Sheets and towels washed at 60°C/140°F ● Follows industry sanitization guidelines

Pool, Gym And Other Guest Amenity Closures

In some cases, pools, gyms and other guest amenities may be closed. Some property owners provide this information in the Temporary Closures Section under About This Property. If you have chosen a property because of a particular amenity for example, a pool or spa, call to confirm that the

amenity is open before you book your stay.

Free Breakfast And Other Food Offerings

Free breakfasts may have been replaced by individually wrapped grab-and-go style offerings. Hotel restaurants may be closed or may offer limited seating and takeout options. You may also find that previously self-serve buffets now have staff serving the food.

Daily Disinfection

Some properties are disinfecting spaces several times a day and visibly labelling sanitized high touch items such as remote controls and light switches for your peace of mind.

Hand Sanitizer Stations

By installing hand sanitizer stations in high traffic areas such as elevators or lobbies, some properties give you more opportunities to keep your hands clean and germ free. However, we still encourage you to bring your own personal supply of hand sanitizer and sanitizing wipes, if possible.

Spacing Out Stays

Some properties are reducing potential exposure by temporarily leaving rooms or properties vacant between guest visits as an additional safety measure.

No-Touch Room Access

Say goodbye to returning keys. Many properties are switching to single-use room keys or keyless entry.

No-Contact Service And Social Distancing

Touchless transactions, including contactless check-in, paperless checkout and no contact room service, may be available to help minimize your interaction with others.

Some properties are placing floor markers at elevator banks, checkin and concierge desks and in other common areas to help promote social distancing.

Staff Precautions

Many properties are providing additional hygiene training and personal protective equipment such as disposable masks and gloves to their staff. Some properties have also implemented branded cleanliness programs. Expedia is proud to be your source for booking your travel destinations. To keep up-to-date with the latest COVID-19 travel changes, visit us online at www.expedia.com.

Travel

7 Safety Tips

On Traveling During The Pandemic by Rebecca Siggers

eople travel for different reasons– personal, professional, vacation, adventure and exploration. Sadly, we are living in the midst of a pandemic, where travel may expose us to risk more than ever. Self-quarantine is our current lifestyle. Health authorities are repeatedly stressing about avoiding travel or mingling in groups and the importance of self-quarantine. In this ongoing fight against coronavirus, there is a ray of hope for travel lovers who can travel safely and responsibly. Governments are slowly relaxing the travel restrictions but with strict measures. Travel companies and hotels are operating with care adhering to health advisories. Travel and hospitality looks a lot different now, with many changes in how they operate and welcome passengers. And yes, it is all for the greater good! While it is best to not travel at this time, there are some who still have to travel. Here are seven safety tips to consider when traveling during the pandemic:

1. Get Tested for COVID-19

Staying safe means staying responsible. When there is a necessity to step out for travel, the first thing you want to ensure is that you are not carrying the virus. Getting COVID tested is the first thing that should be on the list of travel safety tips during the pandemic. Most countries demand COVID negative proof at arrival. So this is mandatory for every travel enthusiast. If you once tested positive for COVID

but now you are fully recovered and want to escape through travel, I advise you to hold off on travel. You may not be permitted to travel by state and health authorities. Not just with symptoms of COVID, for anyone with a mild cold, headache, cough, or a seasonal fever, we suggest canceling the trip.

2. Travel Wisely

Travel implies coming into contact with strangers by some means. Sharing seats and travel space is the first possible risk. Travel experts say airlines are the safer means of travel as they pose the minimal risk of being virus carriers. Their HEPA filtering system works wonders in keeping the air clean and free from viruses. However, no one can guarantee that the stranger sitting six feet from you may not be a carrier. Driving is also a safer option to eliminate the probable risks from strangers. When traveling with other people, those you do not know, choose a window seat. This is the better option to escape the risk of virus contamination in closed spaces.

3. Be Strict With Social Distancing

Social distancing is the safest precaution to mitigate the risk of being exposed to coronavirus. The lesser the interaction with strangers, the safer. Remember, do not shake hands and no physical contact. Politely keep your distance away from people who are not wearing masks. Be doubly mindful when sharing pools, shopping at the markets, using the restroom, dining spaces and other

common areas. Wear your mask at all times. You may lower the mask while taking a selfie, but put it right back on.

4. Wash Hands, Sanitize, Repeat

Washing your hands thoroughly is essential. Rinse hands and wash hands deeply using rich lather and dry them. Repeat this as many times as possible during travel. Pump up the volume of good quality sanitizer in your backpack. Carry a handy-sized bottle all the time in a pocket or handbag. Sanitize hands before and after touching anything. Also, make it a habit to sanitize handbags, wallets, eye glasses, watches, mobile phones, chargers and headsets frequently.

5. Stay Connected with Friends and Family Back Home

Either traveling solo or for business, make sure to stay in touch with parents and family. Inform them at every stage of travel and let them know your well-being. Share the details of the day like who you met, what you ate and where you are staying. Sharing intrinsic details with family and informing them about location and activities can help in times of need. Have a list of emergency contacts in your cell phone and also as a note in a pocket diary. It may come in handy when fallen sick on foreign lands. Emergency contact information also serves as a savior when dealing with foreign lands’ rules as they are

changing fast due to the ongoing pandemic.

6. Gather Knowledge About Heath Safety

Travel rules differ from one state to another. Gather comprehensive information about the local state rules and also the destination. Be sure to carry all relevant documents needed. Carry health insurance and proof of identity. Pack an emergency medical aid back. Stock up on hand sanitizer wipes along with regular medications. I suggest getting in touch with your doctor and seeking advice on emergency medication that you should include in the kit. Contact a medical professional overthe-phone or by video call in case of any suspicion about change in your health. You may also have to inform the local authorities and the hotel if you find anything suspicious about your health and wellness. Hence, always stay informed about the regulations of the local authorities of the place of travel.

it at hygienic and trustworthy filling stations. Check with the hotel if they can provide boiled water for drinking. Travel can disturb sleep and food patterns. Remember that this can bring down immunity levels. Get sound sleep and maintain good sleep patterns as much as possible. Make it a point to perform yoga or light exercises wherever you are. Get enough sunlight to keep the body healthy. Breathing exercises and meditation work beautifully in boosting lung health and emotional health. Besides, they can be done despite travel and without any need for exercise equipment. Travel safety is in our hands. Safety is an affordable and effective insurance policy. Safe travel is achieved by protecting yourself and others around you. Whatever you do, only travel if it is absolutely necessary. Stay home, if you can.

7. Maintain Immunity Levels

Good immunity is the secret to fighting infections. Focus on your diet, water intake and exercise are important, especially if you want to keep your health on the up and up. Eat freshly cooked food, avoid raw foods. Preferably go vegetarian. Relish on soups, fresh fruits, and foods prepared by grilling using less oil. Continue taking multivitamins, if that is already a part of your daily routine. Carry a water bottle with you. Refill

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

Travel

by Tiffany Silverberg amping is a great family activity — giving everyone an appreciation for nature and providing the perfect venue for lifelong memories. With most things being shut down during the COVID-19 pandemic, a weekend camping trip in the fall can be a real treat. However, this fantasy adventure can quickly become a nightmare if you did not prepare properly. Pack everything you might need for your weekend getaway. This will help you avoid later panic and wishing that you just stayed at home. Spur of the moment trips are exciting but when there are children involved or more than two people, you will need ample time to plan the weekend getaway. Give yourself at least one week in advance. Make a list of the weekend’s activities and all the items you might need. If there are specific activities you plan to participate in, pack those items first. These might include tackle boxes or fishing poles. Toys, such as footballs, board games, bikes, helmets and skates. Set out a backpack for each camper. Set out clothes for each day, including underwear. Also pick out an extra full outfit, in case one gets dirty. Roll these into plastic bags and place them in the backpacks. Wind a roll of clothesline and place it in one backpack. You can hang the clothes lines at the campsite for drying wet clothes. Write down, on your list, a meal you will eat each day. Pack a cooler with perishable and shelf-stable foods for each meal. If you are planning to take meat, freeze your meat ahead of time and place it in the cooler with

ice so that it keeps until it is ready to be cooked. Even if you plan to catch fish to eat, pack some other food to eat, just in case the fish aren’t biting. Check your camping spot’s policy on fires. Pack a Bunsen burner if you can’t have a bonfire. Place matches in a plastic bag so they don’t get wet. Pack a manual can opener, seasonings, aluminum foil, a cutting board or anything else you might need to prepare food. Also bring a small container of dish detergent to wash your dishes with.

can of bug spray, mainly for ants and spiders to spray around the outside of the tent. It is also a good idea to bring a broom and a nice outdoor rug to keep your tent nice and tidy. Lastly, keep an open mind but always prepare for the worst. Pack a first-aid kit, including any prescription drugs. Cell phones, cash and quarters for the shower and battery operated radios are useful in case of inclement or dangerous weather or breakdowns. Throw in some ponchos, hats and sunscreen.

Pack a sleeping bag and pillow for everyone. Make sure there is a spot in the tent for everyone. Pack the tents, tarp to place on the ground before you build your tent, the stakes and a mallet to secure them. Purchase a big

Remember, a weekend getaway is only three days and two nights, there is no need to overdo the packing. Follow these simple tips and you should have everything that you need for a perfect fall camping weekend. The good thing is, when you go with other families or friends, you can always borrow what you need. Just have fun and make some memories. Happy trails!

Anaverde Magazine | October 2020

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Snapshots

A Photo Gallery for the Community by the Community

Explore Big Rock Creek! Just a few minutes outside of Palmdale in Pearblossom, California, this scenic getaway is the perfect day trip.

Big Rock Creek is the perfect oasis to relax and spend time away from home. Photo Courtesy/Grant Jackson

Scenic views of the mountains surrounding the fresh water creek at Big Rock. Photo Courtesy/Grant Jackson

One of the many paths that lead to the flowing creek nestled in the valley of the mountains at Big Rock. Photo Courtesy/Grant Jackson Are you an aspiring photographer or simply love to take pics of the Anaverde community? Share them with us! We would love to feature your work. Send to hello@anaverde-magazine.com