Northside Woman - May 2018

NSW NORTHSIDE WOMAN MAY 2018

Natural bling

Find the perfect stone through gem mining

A light in the darkness

She Is Safe works to end global abuse

Sweet Success

It's a family affair at Honey & Hazel Boutique

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4 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

ABBY BREAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

NORTHSIDE WOMAN staff Suzanne Pacey Publisher suzanne@northsidewoman.com

Candy Waylock Senior Writer

Abby Breaux Cover Photographer

{ INSIDE }

northside women Kathleen Sturgeon Julia Grochowski Contributing Writer Contributing Writer

Owner - Christina Appen General Manager - Hans Appen Sales Executives Adam Darby, Mike Dorman, Paul Flowers, Wendy Goddard, Dean Larkin, June Meltzer, Steve Neese Sales Assistant - Susan Hernandez Production Suzanne Pacey David Brown, A.J. McNaughton Editor Keith Still

CONTACT

770.442.3278 | 770.475.1216 (fax) 319 North Main Street, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009

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Northside Woman is published monthly & distributed free throughout north metro Atlanta. © 2018 Appen Media Group. All rights reserved. No portion of this publication may be copied or reprinted without the express written permission of the publisher.

{ 12 } SHE GIVES BACK Michele Rickett of She Is Safe focuses on stopping the global abuse and slavery of women. { 16 } THE INTERVIEW Marcia Fullwood thought her family was complete, until adoption brought Harmony into her life. { 34 } WOMEN IN ART Tracey O’Brien loves creating simple, unique jewelry you can wear every day.

northside lifestyle { 10 } HER STYLE When it comes to fashion and decor, the color purple is not just for Oprah and Prince. { 22 } OUTDOOR WOMAN Looking for a unique bauble? Start by mining for your own gems in Georgia’s rivers. { 24 } HER MONEY Pamper Mom with lavish Mother’s Day gifts – each for under $100.

The Cover

Julie Gordy, left, and daughter Grace Gordy Mohr, owners of Honey & Hazel boutique in Alpharetta, enjoy the business side of their relationship.

See story page 6. { 25 } HER BODY Advances in infertility treatment put pregnancy within reach of most couples. { 33 } GOOD BOOKS Mother-daughter authors plan more collaboration after initial success with children’s’ book. { 36 } SHE'S SEXY Get your groove back by planning something new and exciting for Date Night. { 37 } BARTENDER OF THE MONTH { 38 } HER GARDEN Mother’s Day gifts for the garden-loving women in your life. { 39 } TAKE FIVE Quick tips to getting the perfect portrait of your graduating senior.

{ 46 - 55 } HER HEALTH { 56 } MAY CALENDAR may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 5

women in business

PHOTOS BY ABBY BREAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

Honey & Hazel takes ‘family business’ to new level 6 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

women in business

By KATHLEEN STURGEON

kathleen@northsidewoman.com

F

or Julie Gordy and Grace Gordy Mohr, running a business together has been a lifelong dream.

The mother-daughter duo first teamed up in 2014 to open their shop Honey & Hazel in Alpharetta at 7300 North Point Parkway, Suite 102.

Growing up, Gordy Mohr, 30, watched her mom work in her home decor shop, which spurred conversations about one day opening a store together.

While Gordy had always focused on interior design, Gordy Mohr concentrated more on fashion. At their Alpharetta boutique, the two now play off each other’s strengths and shared taste for aesthetics and style to offer unique clothing and accessories for women of all ages.

And their hard work has paid off since they’ve been named the “Best Boutique” in North Atlanta three years in a row.

“We love working together,” Gordy Mohr said. “We’ve always been in each other’s closets and didn’t have to buy two of the same thing. We always shared.”

The store is a reflection of their personalities, Gordy, 61, said.

“It shows the lifestyle we choose,” she said. “It’s very relaxed, fun and classy. We love color, comfort and a good price point.”

Gordy Mohr said she loves working with her mom, because she admires her personality and strength.

“I love working with my mom,” Gordy Mohr said. “She’s always been my best friend. It’s fun to be around her all the time and learn from her. She’s spunky, and it’s fun to be in here together. We have a lot of mothers and daughters who shop with us, so I think they enjoy seeing our relationship.

Everybody has a good time coming in here.”

Gordy echoed her daughter’s sentiment and said she loves Gordy Mohr’s inner beauty and determination to succeed.

“It’s absolutely the best,” she said. “I’m so proud of Grace.

I say it every day to all our customers so they know how mom feels. She’s accomplished a lot and worked very hard to get where she is. She had a great vision and stuck to it and then

► See WOMEN IN BUSINESS, Page 8 may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 7

women in business

▼ Continued from Page 7 accomplished it. It was quite a journey, but she’s done well. As long as she’ll have me, I’ll be by her side.”

The business partners make it a point to know their customers, so when they return to the store, they are welcomed and recognized.

The family part of their business extends so far to the name, as Gordy’s mother and Gordy Mohr’s grandmother used to call those dear to her, honey, and had beautiful hazel eyes, hence Honey & Hazel.

“When we get new customers and they come back in, we remember things they liked or things they told us about their families,” Gordy Mohr said. “We get to meet their kids, and they get to know us, too.

When we first opened, I was single; so they watched me get engaged and then married. They connect with our family.”

The women strive to make their customers feel comfortable and aren’t afraid to tell someone if something looks good — or not so good — on them.

With their age difference, the two can give even more personalized advice that makes customers feel at ease.

“Someone my age is not coming in and having a young person who doesn’t know what it’s like to be an older woman, who wants sleeves, or to cover up and doesn’t want to wear all the trends,” Gordy said. “They can look great and still be fashionable. That’s really important, because for so many women, they think style stops at a certain age — and [they] don’t pursue it. Then they don’t feel good about themselves. There’s no reason for that. We want you to feel important.”

Over the past four years, Honey & Hazel has achieved its goal of appealing to younger and older women, giving both many options to choose from in the store.

“We want to cater to both,” Gordy Mohr said. “We’re in here all the time. Some of our older customers may come in and think this is for ‘younger women.’ But then they’ll look around and see we have stuff for everyone. It’s fun that mothers and daughters can come in and shop together, buy tons of stuff and love it.”

Honey & Hazel just launched their online store at shophoneyandhazel.com, with new items being added daily. ■ 8 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

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HER STYLE

Perfecting a Panache for Purple

How to wear Ultra Violet, the color of the year

E

ach year, a new color for fashion, beauty, home dĂŠcor, visual packaging and brand recognition is revealed by the Pantone Color Institute. In 2018, the color is a deep purple named Ultra Violet. Pantone describes it as imaginative and spiritually reflective.

Purple represents both royalty (Queen Elizabeth I forbade anyone but the royal family to wear it) and counter-culture (think rock music icon Prince). Shades of Ultra Violet look great on men and women. It is sumptuous in a velvet gown and trendy in a sleek ath-leisure sneaker.

Simply put, Ultra Violet can be cutting edge and classically chic, depending on the tone and fabric of the garment.

Here are my tips for incorporating Ultra Violet into your wardrobe:

Subtle Infiltration of Ultra Violet When updating your wardrobe for the new season, choose patterns that have purple in them. This can include deep moody purples or light lavender. Now that you have been enlightened on the season’s 10 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

HER STYLE hottest color, while shopping, you will see Ultra Violet is everywhere.

Ultra Violet can be calming and reflective

Pair Ultra Violet with your favorite neutrals

Ultra Violet and soft pastel purples also create a peaceful, comforting ensemble when paired with light blue, gray or taupe hues. In light soft tones, purple is a great way to update your white and gray home interiors. Add pillows and artwork in Ultra Violet or dried lavender bouquets to your centerpieces to refresh your décor.

Purple pairs well with navy, light gray, blush pink, olive, bright white or cream. Metallics stabilize this color, making it luxurious for adults. Think gold or silver metallic handbags, shoes, jewelry and metallic details on fabrics.

Paired with a blush pink, it appears childlike and appropriate for toddlers. Picture purple and pink juvenile prints in cotton or jersey.

Ultra Violet is actually a very versatile color.

Like its name, Ultra Violet can make a statement Pairing it with sunflower yellow, warm orange or deep raspberry hues creates a dramatic splash — evocative of warm tropical sunsets.

When combining wardrobe items in these colors, remember to match the intensity of the tones. Mix vibrant colors with vibrant colors. Pair deep rich tones with other deep rich tones. These are great combinations for vacation wear, such as swimsuits, sundresses and cover-ups.

Ultra Violet pairs well with colors from nature Purple pairs well with varying shades of green. The most flattering shade of eyeshadow for green eyes is purple. Pair Ultra Violet tops with olive green pants or narrow-legged joggers for an updated classic, yet trendy, look for this spring. Purple also pairs well with copper, sage and lettuce green for an earthy bohemian vibe. ■ As a personal wardrobe consultant and owner of Alpharetta-based Fashion With Flair, Lori Wynne helps people look their best. Connect with her at fashionwithflair.com.

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may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 11

SHE GIVES BACK

A shining light in She Is Safe works to end abuse, slavery of girls and women

By CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

L

Nepali girl is saying, “STOP!” “Stop taking us. Stop selling us.

Stop devaluing us.”

ong before the terms “human trafficking” and “modern-day slavery” became a part of our social conscience, Michele Rickett was taking action and saving lives.

Through the She Is Safe organization she founded nearly two decades ago in Roswell, Rickett has helped thousands of young girls and women around the globe escape a life of abuse and slavery.

She Is Safe focuses on three key areas -- prevention, rescue and restoration -- working in the most impoverished, least-reached countries, where the busiest Michele Rickett, founder human trafficking corridors of She Is Safe organization. take place.

“We have ‘boots/sandals on the ground’ in high-risk communities in India, Indonesia, Lebanon, Mali, Myanmar, Nepal and South Sudan,” Rickett said of the organization, which harnesses the work of thousands of volunteers worldwide.

“We identify the highest risk places for the abuse and slavery of women and girls, then have our staff identify best practices for that location,” she said.

To put it into global perspective, the risk level for the average girl living in the United States is less than 1 percent. In contrast, the degree of risk in areas where She Is Safe operates is up to 98 percent - meaning it is 98 percent likely a girl will be “sold” into a life of abuse or slavery, explained Rickett.

Her missionary work began early in her marriage, when Rickett and husband, Daniel, both graduates of Trinity College in Florida, prepared for international missions in the early 1980s.

They had a desire to work in “least-reached places” and were assigned to Nairobi, Kenya, where they served as a base of operations for Partners International on the African continent.

“We reported back to the [U.S.] headquarters on the status of projects, and identified African individuals who could take up [and continue] the work,” said Rickett. “I was privileged to meet men and women leaders during a truly defining time in my life.”

But there was a darker side to the society where she was immersed.

Rickett soon realized the young girls in the neighborhood who had been brought in to do the cooking, cleaning and babysitting were, in fact, slaves -- and often not there of their own free will.

“Getting to know African women and girls opened my eyes to the heartbreaking abuse and sale of girls and women,” said Rickett.

“What I learned [in Kenya] became the seed of what is now She Is

n darkened corners

SHE GIVES BACK

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY SHEISSAFE.ORG

In rural Nepal, there are villages with no girls over the age of 12. The missing girls have been sold into India’s massive brothels.

Research shows that educating girls will dramatically lift a country’s GDP. The potential of girls like Mina is wasted, as they are often kept out of school and forced into slavery.

Safe.”

Her life of missionary work may have started in Kenya, but her connection to these young girls and women was rooted much deeper.

As a teenager, Rickett was rescued from a violent home life of abuse after a friend’s mother intervened and reported the situation to authorities. The Department of Family and Children Services stepped in, and Rickett was placed with a “loving Christian family.”

Years later, in Kenya, those memories of her early years of abuse came rushing back; and became a rallying point for Rickett to be the one who intervened.

“I had no idea that my difficult childhood was preparing me for the mission God was opening before me,” said Rickett, who grew up in Cobb County. “It was as though God was reminding me that when I needed rescue, someone came for me.”

As Rickett looked for direction, she felt God asking her, “What will you do for these children of mine?”

She began by bringing her concerns and questions to trusted African women friends, knowing that they would have the best insights for helping to combat the problem of selling girls.

“Many of them had transcended these same abuses, understood the language and culture and were willing to collaborate on solutions,” said Rickett. “We have utilized this ‘partnership’ model ever since.”

Several years later, in 1989, the Rickett family, which now included two daughters, moved to Alpharetta, where Daniel had been tapped to launch a program for Illinois-based Trinity Evangelical Divinity School.

Michele was taking a much needed break from direct missionary work to raise her two daughters, but became a frequent guest speaker at women’s groups interested in her experiences in Africa.

“I began raising awareness about the plight of women and girls

around the world, [and] forging deep relationships with like-minded women who believed that God wanted those of us who are free to advocate for abused and enslaved women and girls,” said Rickett.

By 2002, the organization had a network of women (and a few men) ready to band together to create an international nonprofit corporation dedicated to freeing women and girls from abuse and slavery.

To advance the message to a broader audience, Rickett wrote two books, “Daughters of Hope” (2002) and “Forgotten Girls – Stories of Hope and Courage” (2014), which both became best sellers.

“Both of the books help readers walk into the lives of victims to gain insights for prayer and responsible action, and opened doors for us to mobilize more resources and people to join [our mission],” said Rickett.

Over the years, the impact of the organization grew, along with the lives saved and redirected. Rickett said in the last five years alone, She Is Safe has supported between 15,000 and 18,000 individuals each year in one of the programs of prevention, rescue or restoration.

Last year, an additional 68,000 at-risk children overseas received abuse prevention training through public schools.

Rickett knows the impact of She Is Safe resonates through each girl helped, saying that for “every girl or woman you help to lift, she will impact 26 others.” She also knows her work will never end.

“There will always be criminals who will do anything for money, but we can work to make our communities far less hospitable to these criminals,” said Rickett. “And we won’t stop working and inviting others to join us — until every girl is safe, free and equipped to become the woman God created her to be.”

For more information on She Is Safe and how you can help end the cycle of abuse, visit www.sheissafe.org. ■ may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 13

SHE DESIGNS

KELLY NAVE PHOTOGRAPHY

Update your kitchen on a budget

By TRACY HARKNESS Contributing Writer

Y

ou have heard it said over and over again — “put your money in the kitchen when updating your home.” But where do you start if you want a little update, or refresh, without the hassle or cost of a full-blown renovation? Here is a guide to just that!

First, remember the power of paint goes a long way. Tired of your drab, dark cabinetry? Choose a shade of white, light gray or light taupe to repaint, and your cabinets will stand the test of time. For a little extra oomph, paint your island in a contrasting color.

Often forgotten, lighting is the jewelry of the home. Swap out your island pendants for something that makes a statement when guests walk in the room. Just remember, it is better to go bigger, than smaller. If you don’t have island pendants, add them or consider changing the light over your kitchen table.

Another super easy and affordable “reno-hack” is changing the 14 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

cabinetry hardware. New pulls and knobs can update and modernize the look you are trying to achieve. Think about changing the shape and finish to create a new look. Here’s a tip: make sure you measure the size of the holes of your existing hardware, so that you can easily retrofit your new selection. Great affordable options online make updating your hardware too easy not to do!

Lastly, I am sure your bar stools or the chairs around your kitchen table could use a little attention, as they are quick to show wear and tear.

Upgrade your stools or chairs to something you love, or reupholster what you have with a performance fabric that will be easy to maintain.

A kitchen refresh is certainly attainable, if you follow my guide! ■ As an Interior Designer and Owner of j. gray design & interiors, Inc., Tracy Harkness creates spaces that are chic, timeless, and comfortable. Every space should be functional and livable with attention to detail.

HOW DO YOU LISTEN? Appen Media Group is proud to unveil our new lineup of podcasts; Inside the Box, Lunch Break and Overtime with Joe Parker.

Podcasts are recorded radio shows you can listen to via an app or online, for free. But instead of music, you listen to news, stories and interviews. People enjoy podcasts because they are a free flowing, easy to use and affordable outlet for entertainment and news.

How to download our podcasts 1. Go to northfulton.com/podcasts 2. You will see a media player that broadcasts the most recent episode. This will allow you to listen directly from your laptop, computer or phone.

3. If you prefer to listen via an app on your phone, there is a link below each media player to access them, if you have an iPhone (Apple), Android phone or another popular podcast app Stitcher.

VISIT NORTHFULTON.COM/PODCASTS AND LISTEN TODAY

THE INTERVIEW

On a family outing. Michael and Marcia in back. Front L to R - MJ, Harmony, Serena, Brittany, and Dane.

Harmony THE ROAD TO

‘Miraculous’ adoption completes family for Alpharetta couple

Harmony, 4 1/2 years old.

16 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

By CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

W

hile most couples approach the “empty nest” phase as a time to focus on themselves, some decide to go back to square one -- and see where life takes them.

Marcia and Michael Fullwood of Alpharetta were successfully transitioning their four children to adulthood, when a beautiful baby girl, with a name to match, came into their world four years ago.

Since formally adopting Harmony in 2014, the Fullwoods have found themselves right back where they started nearly three decades ago.

“Well, I will just start this with — our sons are 30, our daughters are almost 27, and here we are, raising a 5-year old.

Have our lives changed? You bet,” said Marcia of her whirlwind life.

She and Michael loved being parents. After marrying in 2007 and blending their household of two boys and two girls, the couple seriously considered having another child.

“We tried for a couple of years to have one of our own … [then] had an adoption ‘epiphany’ early in 2012,” said Marcia.

Enter Harmony, who came into their lives in what she can only describe as a “miraculous way.”

The Fullwoods had been approved by the Fulton County Department of Family and Children Services as part of the “Foster to Adopt” program, which places children in foster care while the department works with the birth parents to regain custody.

“The fact we were older than the average new parents wasn’t a deterrent to us,” said Marcia, who was born in England and grew up in Jamaica. “We recognized the need for adoptive parents was great, and we knew we both had the heart to share our love with a child in need.”

After months of waiting, the Fullwoods got a call that a baby girl was available to foster, and she could possibly be with them by Christmas morning. Harmony was 8 months old at the time and had been with her foster parents, Christina and Ray Appen, since she was only 3 weeks old.

“Her foster mom made the unselfish and amazing decision to have Harmony move to a family likely to adopt her, and to do it in time to spend her first Christmas with her [new] family,” said Marcia.

The Fullwoods met Harmony and the Appens at their home that same day. After a quick few days of communication, the Fullwoods met Harmony and the Appens at their church on Christmas Eve, where Harmony was already scheduled to play baby Jesus in the church Nativity scene.

“We immediately fell in love with the little lady,” said Marcia. “We brought her home, and began to recognize her as part of our family from that wonderful Christmas Eve.” Christina Appen said it was more than fate that brought together the new family at such a meaningful time.

“It is nearly impossible to think God wasn't involved,” said Christina, who with her husband Ray, has fostered many children over the years. “It was so obvious that Michael and Marcia were the right parents for her.”

At home, Harmony joined her four siblings in the close Fullwood family. Marcia and Michael met years ago when their boys were classmates and friends at Taylor Road Middle School. Their girls were also the same age and soon became best friends.

“We credit the girls with the ‘parent trap’ hookup,” said Marcia, who has lived in Alpharetta since 2002.

During that first year, the Fullwoods held their collective

THE INTERVIEW

breaths as efforts were made by DFCS to complete the adoption process. In November 2014, the Fullwoods finalized Harmony’s adoption in a ceremony that crowded so many friends and family members into the judge’s chambers that a larger room was needed.

“The judge loved what he saw – the community of people determined to help us raise our little girl,” said Marcia.

Looking back over their three-year adoption process, Marcia said every moment was worth it. Though they endured heartbreaks, including potential adoptions that fell through, red tape and lots of waiting, all roads led to Harmony.

In the past four years, big changes have occurred in the Fullwood home, not the least of which is learning how to operate “newfangled car seats and baby strollers,” said Marcia.

“Michael and I both had to learn about baby equipment a generation after we’d originally used them,” she said.

“Technology has helped a lot [with parenting], but thankfully, nothing will ever replace good old snuggling, reading books

Adoption day. Michael holding Harmony, Marcia, Superior Court Judge T. Jackson Bedford, Jr.

together, tucking in at night, and ‘I Spy’ games on the trip to school.”

Socially, the Fullwoods gravitate between empty-nester friends, family and new acquaintances who have children Harmony’s age.

An accountant by profession, Marcia’s career also took a new direction after Harmony’s adoption. It started with a cake “bake off” contest at work five years ago, triggering a creative spark, and which led to a new passion.

In 2016, she retired after 35 years in accounting and became a full-time mom and hobby baker. Last November, she traveled to England to enter the world’s largest cake decorating competition and emerged with a certificate of merit.

“I truly feel I’ve achieved the perfect situation for me ... [full-time wife and mother] and something for me — exploring my newfound creativity,” said Marcia.

For other parents considering adoption, Marcia urges them to follow their hearts.

“Friends often remark about how difficult it must be raising a little one at my age...and it is not without challenges,” Marcia said. “But the rewards far outweigh the inconveniences.

Harmony has brought immeasurable joy to our family. Opt to share your heart with a deserving child. The payback is lifeand heart-changing.” ■ may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 17

Simple delicious HER VIEW

Donsuemor Madeleines

D

onsuemor’s elegant little French cakes with their distinctive shell shapes arrived safely to the Northside Woman office, and we were eager to test them out. They were soft, moist and came in three flavors: Traditional, dipped in chocolate, lemon zest , and we also received some French almond cakes.The buttery mini-cakes went perfectly with my morning coffee … and my afternoon coffee! They are available online from the California-based bakery, www.donsuemor.com.

A great gift idea for Mother’s Day or any other special occasion.■

Trade Root

L

ocated in The Whitley Hotel (the old Lenox Ritz Carlton) in Atlanta’s Buckhead neighborhood, Trade Root specializes in Mediterraneaninspired recipes, and Northside Woman was offered the opportunity to sample their menu. Our host, Nathan Dewitt, made us feel right at home from the start with the restaurant’s signature cocktail, The Whitley Cup. Its refreshing blend of mint, pineapple and ginger was a great way to cleanse our palates. Our tasting menu contained an array of fabulous dishes, from zucchini cakes and red quinoa salad to lemon-poached Georgia trout and braised pork cheeks. We capped everything off with The Whitley Chocolate Cake. All of the Trade Root samples were amazing, and I have to admit some were items I might never have selected off the regular menu.

Stop by and check it out if you’re in the area, https://lux. ht/2qhdaN9! ■

Beautiful Briny Sea

A

sample of Beautiful Briny Sea Salts was recently delivered to the Northside Woman office. Not many of us are cooks, so I decided to take the challenge and try out the distinctive salt blends myself.

Testing out the product on some of my favorite things to grill (veggies and fish), I was amazed by the bursts of flavor these salts added. Just a touch was needed too!

The Beautiful Briny Sea company is based in Atlanta's Old Fourth Ward neighborhood and sells a dozen small-batch salt blends as well as sugars. Impress your “foodie friends” and buy them some of these greattasting salts as a hostess gift! Find them online at www. beautifulbrinysea.com.■ — Suzanne Pacey, Publisher 18 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

LET'S TALK! Send NSW your comments and photos on our social media channels or by e-miling us at suzanne@ northsidewoman.com.

We'd love to hear your thoughts. facebook.com/ northsidewoman twitter.com/ nsidewoman

A D E S T I NAT I O N T O E X P E R I E N C E FA S H I O N & S T Y L E

DIRECTIONS

HOURS

C O N TA C T

2200 Avalon Blvd.

Alpharetta, GA 30009

Monday - Saturday

Concierge: 770-765-1000

(Exit 10 off GA400)

10AM – 9PM Sunday 12PM – 7PM

www.experienceavalon.com

SOCIAL @AvalonInsider #AvalonInsider

Reformer pilates energizes North Fulton

SHE ENERGIZES

By LORI WYNNE Contributing Writer

To find out more about a unique style of Pilates now being offered in the North Fulton area, Northside Woman recently reached out to Kim Worley, co-owner with her husband Mark of Club Pilates Avalon (7160 Avalon Way, Alpharetta, Ga. 30009) and Club Pilates Alpharetta (3005 Old Alabama Road, Suite 150, Alpharetta, Ga. 30022).

P

ilates helps to build core strength and create balance within the body. Worley’s Club Pilates is unique, because it offers reformer Pilates in a small group format. Instead of traditional mats, members in reformer Pilates programs use specialized equipment to perform a system of exercises that strengthen and lengthen muscles simultaneously, with no muscle under- or over-trained.

NSW: How did you become interested in reformer Pilates?

I have always been active and had tried mat Pilates off and on through the years, but never stuck with it. When I tried the reformer for the first time, I couldn't believe what I'd been

20 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

missing! Finally, I had found a way to increase my flexibility, strength and overall fitness without pounding my joints. Each class is a full-body workout and leaves you feeling amazing.

It's nice to be in a business where you are offering health and wellness. I am almost finished with the 500-hour instructor training program, and hope to be certified by summer.

NSW: What are the most popular classes at your studios?

Reformer Flow classes, levels 1 — 2.0, are our most popular. These take the members through the foundational principles of Pilates to full mastery. Members with previous experience enjoy these, as well as the Fusion classes. Our studios are equipped with 12 state-of-the-art reformers, with a springboard, EXO-chair, barre and TRX system adjacent to each. Our Fusion classes combine reformer work with each of these. The CardioSculpt class is a fan favorite, as well.

Members utilize a jumpboard attached to the reformer that gives them a cardio workout while lying down.

NSW: What benefits have you experienced, or have others at Club Pilates experienced, through using Pilates as a workout?

On a personal level, my husband played baseball in

SHE ENERGIZES

college and used a reformer as part of his rehab program after a shoulder injury. Since being reintroduced to the machine, he has been able to overcome some residual effects of that injury and enjoy golf and other activities that he had previously been unable to participate in without pain.

Many people come to us on recommendations from a physical therapist or chiropractor. They do Pilates as part of a rehab program or to maintain general health of the spine.

Our members love to share their results with us. One member was overjoyed to model a dress for us that she was able to fit into for the first time in a couple of years. After a Center and Balance class last week, two different members told me that they woke up the following day with no pain for the first time in a very long time. â– may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 21

OUTDOOR WOMAN

Mother’s Day jewelry

By STEVE HUDSON Contributing Writer “

TOP: Kathryn Hudson with a nice piece of tigereye - a Mother’s Day present.

BOTTOM: A piece of citrine reveals itself in a freshly-washed screen of gravel.

22 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

W

hat should we get mom for Mother’s Day?” That’s the question of the hour. But what’s the answer?

I decided to do a little research and find out. I asked the next 10 moms I saw what they would really like for Mother’s Day. Except for one, who said she wanted a red Porsche, all the others said “jewelry!”

So, jewelry it is.

When it comes to jewelry, you could do what most folks do and simply saunter on down to the local mall. That works, I suppose.

Or you could take a different approach.

What if you could find your own gemstones – you know, amethyst and emeralds and sapphires and such – and turn ‘em into jewelry that you could give as a gift? Or maybe you could take mom to a gemstone mine where you could look for gems together or she could find her own.

Maybe you could even camp and make a long weekend of it. Family time and gems – that’s a pretty good combination, don’t you think? Mom would like that, I’ll bet!

As it happens, searching for gems has become a thing these days.

It’s called “gem grubbin’.”

Gem grubbin’ is the fine art of washing sand and gravel in search of whatever gemstones might be mixed in. North Georgia offers quite a few places where you can try some gem Gold ‘n Gem Grubbin’ is grubbin’, too. Any of them are great located at 75 Gold Nugget for short excursions into the world of Lane, just west of Cleveprecious stones – and one of them, land, Ga. Going west from Gold ‘n Gem Grubbin’ just up the road Cleveland on Ga. 115, turn near Cleveland, Ga., even has on-site camping. right onto Town Creek Road.

There’s no admission fee at When you cross Tesnatee Gold ‘n Gem Grubbin’. Instead, gem Creek (about 2 miles from grubbers purchase buckets of “gem Ga. 115), look for the large gravel” which they then wash and sign on the right. Turn there screen in cold, cold water that flows and follow the signs to the through wooden troughs at the site’s gem grubbin’ area. The site is sluice area. open year-round, seven days For a more adventuresome a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. experience, you can even sign on for For more info, contact the site a half- or full-day “mining adventure” at 706-865-5454 or visit www. experience down the hill along the creek. A large pile of gem gravel has goldngemgrubbinstore.com. been dumped there, allowing you to screen through as much as your muscles can handle. A picnic lunch and some folding chairs can turn this

OUTDOOR WOMAN

streamside experience into a day-long adventure for the whole family.

I had the opportunity to visit Gold ‘n Gem Grubbin’ recently with my daughter. She loved rock collecting even as a little girl, and judging from the big grin on her face as she picked yet another gemstone from her screen, she was enjoying it still, all these years later.

Our goal, aside from enjoying a unique day together, was to come up with an equally unique Mother’s Day present. Gemstone cutting has long been a hobby of mine, and we were hoping to find just the right gemstone from which I could make a gift for my wife.

After washing the gravel and picking out the obvious pieces of “leverite” (that is, those non-gems that you “leave right” there), we got down to some serious gemstone hunting. The first gem that my daughter found was a nice and chunky piece of amethyst. It almost seemed to glow in shades of lilac as she held it in her hand.

The amethyst was first, but it was far from the last. As we continued to work through the bucket of gravel, quite a few other treasures came to light. There was a piece of multicolored fluorite, beautiful in shades of purple and green. Several moonstones announced themselves with the silvery shimmer that gives them their name. Sapphires appeared, too, easily recognizable once you learn to spot their telltale luster. Several pieces of garnet added a touch of red to the growing collection, and a nice piece of amber-colored citrine brought yet another hue to the rainbow that was accumulating on the bench nearby. There were even a number small emeralds, obvious as glints of green that stood out clearly once you learned what to look for.

It wasn’t long until (almost at the same instant) we spotted a honey-colored shimmer flickering at us from one end of the screen.

Kathryn brushed away the surrounding gravel to reveal a beautiful piece of golden tigereye.

“That’s the one,” I said. “That’s the piece for the Mother’s Day

present! I’ll make Mom a piece of jewelry from it, and I’ll make a matching piece for you!”

Cutting gemstones has long been a hobby of mine, and I looked forward to seeing what that piece of tigereye would yield. I’d cut it cabochon-style and then set a finished stone in a silver pendant setting for each of them.

For folks who don’t cut gems as a hobby, Gold ‘n Gem Grubbin’ also offers jewelry-making services. They’ll cut and polish your gemstones and then set them in sterling silver or gold.

“Sure, I like jewelry from the jewelry store,” one gem grubbin’ mom told me. “But how much more special to have a piece made from a gemstone that I found with my kids. That’s about as good as a Mother’s Day present can get.” ■

A SAMPLING OF ADDITIONAL PLACES TO ENJOY GEM GRUBBIN’ ARE: Consolidated Gold Mines Dahlonega, Ga. 706-864-8473 consolidatedgoldmine.com Crisson Gold Mine Dahlonega, Ga. 706-864-6363 crissongoldmine.com Dukes Creek Gold and Ruby Mines Sautee Nacoochee, Ga. 706-878-2625 dukescreek.com Outpost Gold and Gem Mining Co. Helen, Ga. 706-878-5065 outpostgoldandgems.com may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 23

y a D s ’ r e h t o 5 M ideas gift 0 0 1 $ r e d n u r fo

HER MONEY

By ALLISON NYE Contributing Writer

M

other’s Day is the one special day out of the year when we celebrate how much our moms mean to us. Sometimes, trying to find that perfect gift can make Mother’s Day more stressful than celebratory. Well, stress no more! These five gifts under $100 are guaranteed to make any mom proud and make your life a little easier.

1 Spa day: Massage Envy offers a one-hour massage at an introductory

BE A PREPPIE

rate of $50. They also run specials from time to time, where you can get a one-hour massage plus facial for under $100. And most locations are open as late as 10 p.m., so even the busiest mother can fit a bit of pampering into her schedule.

2 Hidrate Spark: $54.95 may seem too much for a water bottle, but this is no simple canteen. The Hidrate Spark tracks your water intake, syncs with your phone or other fitness devices and glows to remind you to drink water.

3 Lush Bath Bombs: Bath bombs exploded onto the scene last year, and they are all the rage this year. Head over to LushUSA.com and check out their wide selection of gift packages. Or visit the newly renovated Lush located at Perimeter Mall in Atlanta.

4 Teavana PerfectTea Maker: At around $20 for the smallest size,

Loving to Learn for 20 Years ALPHARETTA CAMPUS

225 Park Bridge Pkwy • Alpharetta 30005 (Off Old Milton Pkwy) 770-497-6680

JOHNS CREEK CAMPUS

9670 Ventana Way • Johns Creek 30022 (Off Medlock Bridge) 770-497-6680

Infants • Toddlers • PREPPIES Kindergarten • After School 24 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

Teavana promises this tea maker to be “fast, fun and foolproof.”

It’s perfect for all those moms who love to have a hot cup of tea to decompress.

5 Atlanta Food and Wine Festival: With tickets starting as low as $55, this is the perfect opportunity to experience a wide variety of food and drink from across the South with your mom. Event runs from May 31 to June 3.

Remember, you don’t have to break the bank to celebrate your mom. I hope all the moms out there have a fantastic and loving Mother’s Day! ■ Allison Nye, Wealth plan design specialist at oXYGen Financial.

Co-host of “They Don’t Teach You This” podcast.

HER BODY

The facts of fertility Nearly one in eight women struggles with conception

By CANDY WAYLOCK

candy@northsidewoman.com

L

ost in the celebration of all things motherhood in May, is the reality that the natural process of reproduction eludes many women who struggle with issues of infertility.

In the United States, difficulties in conceiving occur in about one in every eight couples, or 12 percent of married women, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

While breakthroughs in infertility treatment have made the option of having children a greater likelihood than in the past, the root causes of infertility remain unchanged, and often unknown.

“Infertility treatments have advanced and improved outcomes over the years, but the basic concepts of treating infertility has stayed generally the same,” said Dr. Ingrid Reyes, co-founder along with her husband, Dr. John Reyes, of Modern Obstetrics and Gynecology of North Atlanta. “There are certain specific factors that affect a couple’s fertility.”

She noted the causes of fertility are so varied it is hard to pinpoint whether it’s primarily linked to genetics or lifestyle, or personal or family history. And so often, a women with no known risk factors, no environmental exposures, negative medical history, or other apparent reasons ends up simply with “unexplained infertility.”

“It’s often things that women or their partners have no control over,” said Dr. Reyes, who is Board Certified and a Diplomate of the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology. “And I think that’s one of the things we women do too much -- put so much burden on ourselves.”

She says when a woman struggles with infertility they invariably think “what did I do?”’, or “how could I have caused this?”

Most women are unaware of their infertility issues until the point they decide to start their family.

“In our lifetimes [women] are either trying to prevent pregnancy or trying to get pregnant,” said Dr. Reyes. “Most

► See HER BODY, Page 26 may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 25

HER BODY

INCREASING THE CHANCES OF CONCEPTION 1.

Always have safe sex with condoms until you are in a monogamous, serious relationship. Getting a sexually transmitted disease like chlamydia is something that is preventable, and results in a higher chance for tubal blockage due to scarring.

2.

Listen to your body, and be aware of what’s normal and not normal for you. If you have very painful cycles, very heavy bleeding, this may not be normal. There could be fibroids affecting the uterus, or hormonal abnormalities causing heavy bleeding, endometriosis causing the pain.

Pay attention to your symptoms, and if you feel like your cycles may not be the “every 28 days, 4 days of bleeding” period, then talk to your doctor.

3.

Take good care of your health. Treat your body with respect. Get enough rest, and eat healthy, fresh food. Don’t go on binge diets, be consistent with healthy habits, and maintain a normal healthy weight. If you have medical problems such as hypertension, diabetes, or thyroid disorder, have them treated and well under control before trying to conceive.

4.

Learn about how your body works, about ovulation, about timed intercourse, about a normal menstrual cycle. In a normal menstrual cycle, ovulation will happen 14 days prior to the onset of menses. Ovulation prediction kits can help identify your most fertile window of time. You want to have intercourse within 24 hours of ovulation for best chance for success.

26 | northsidewoman.com | may2018 Source: Dr. Ingrid Reyes, Modern Ob/Gyn

▼ Continued from Page 25 women at some point wonder if they will have any trouble conceiving. And you rarely know if you will have any trouble having children until you start trying.”

She noted healthy women under 35 should try having unprotected intercourse for at least one year before seeking medical advice. Women older than 35 may want to seek medical advice after six months of trying to conceive.

Treatments for infertility begin with testing to rule out, or rule in, any factors that prevent pregnancy (for both men and women), including a physical exam, bloodwork testing, ultrasound testing, tubal patency evaluation, and/or semen analysis. At that point, your doctor will develop the most appropriate plan. [see sidebar of treatments] Age and medical histories determine a lot of the next steps, with the age of the mother the most important determinant in female infertility.

“Egg quality and quantity are directly linked to female age,” said Dr. Reyes. “At the age of 30, 7% of [women] are infertile; that slowly increases to 11% by age 35.”

Beyond that, there is a rapid increase of infertility, with one in three [women] infertile by age 40 and nearly 90 percent by age 45. At that point, conception plans may need to include a donor egg.

Although there are cases of women over 50 having babies, Dr. Reyes said it is extremely rare for anyone to spontaneously conceive beyond the age of 44. These women most likely went through either years of infertility management, had their eggs frozen at a younger age, used donor eggs, or some other combination of things.

“While a healthy, fit woman can carry a pregnancy in her 50s (and beyond) I think it sets an unfair expectation.

[Conception] didn’t happen just by chance….but they don’t always speak openly about what struggles they might have gone through to do that.”

But for women of childbearing age, the good news is it is possible for most women to have children of their own.

“It all depends on the cause of the fertility issue [and treating] the couple in a very focused and effective way,” she explained. “Even in the cases of unexplained fertility, and after many years of trying to conceive, as long as a patient is open to all the options, most couples are able to have a child of their own in one way or another.”

Treatment Options for Infertility

The most common interventions for infertility are ovulation induction with oral or injectable medications, intrauterine insemination, and in vitro fertilization (IVF).

Sometimes patients will need more specific care including egg donation, surgical management for fibroids or endometriosis, egg and embryo freezing, or preimplantation genetic testing, “In-vitro fertilization Dr. Ingrid Reyes, Modern Ob/Gyn. is the most preferred option because of the highest chance of success in a shorter window of time.

[However] there are many options before needing to move forward with IVF,” said Dr. Reyes.

HER BODY FAST FACTS ON INFERTILITY What is infertility?

Infertility is a disease or condition of the reproductive system often diagnosed after a couple has had one year of unprotected, well-timed intercourse, or if the woman has suffered from multiple miscarriages and the woman is under 35 years of age. If the woman is over 35 years old, it is diagnosed after 6 months of unprotected, welltimed intercourse.

Who has infertility?

• One in 8 couples (or 12% of married women) have trouble getting pregnant or sustaining a pregnancy.

• Approximately one-third of infertility is attributed to the female partner, one-third attributed to the male partner and one-third caused by a combination of problems in both partners or unexplained.

• A couple ages 29-33 with a normal functioning reproductive system has a 20-25% chance of conceiving in any given month; after six months of trying, 60% of couples will conceive without medical assistance.

What are the leading causes that prevent pregnancy?

• Mother is older than 35 • Ovulatory dysfunction • Anatomical issues in the uterus or fallopian tubes • Sperm disorders causing male infertility Infertility is a disease.

There are many medical conditions that can be the underlying cause of infertility for both men and women.

Some of these conditions are simple to diagnose with the help of an OB/Gyn. Others require an array of additional testing and the expertise of a specialist such as a Reproductive Endocrinologist or an urologist. If you suspect you may have infertility, it is best to go ahead and get a complete fertility work-up and diagnosis.

The basic components of the IVF process include stimulation of the ovaries to produce multiple eggs at a time, removal of the eggs from the ovary (egg retrieval), fertilization of the eggs in the laboratory, and subsequent placement of the resulting embryos into the uterus (embryo transfer).

In 2015, about two percent of all babies born in the United States were a result of successful IVF, according to the CDC. In 40 percent of those cases, IVF resulted in multiple births (primarily twins) because of the practice of implanting more than one embryo to increase the chances of success.

“There are many, many options for infertility management so I usually try to counsel my patients that it may be very quick and successful, but it can sometimes take years to find success [using] multiple different interventions,” said Dr. Reyes.

She said she encourages her patients to not give up, even after years of trying, although they may need to take breaks from the treatments.

Looking ahead, Dr. Reyes said advances in fertility treatments are promising, especially in the success rates of IVF. In fact, the process has become so successful that most women are being advised to only implant one egg.

One promising technique is preimplantation genetic testing where an embryo can be tested for specific genetic traits to preclude passing on debilitating disease.

“While this is an incredibly deep ethical issue, it also is a powerful opportunity for the women to [choose not to have a child] who will inevitably have a very difficult life. But there are always concerns about how far should/will this go,” said Dr. Reyes.

Egg freezing/egg banking is also an option for women who want to defer their childbearing. It has been used for women undergoing medical treatments that could impact fertility, and also for women who want to wait to have kids until they’ve established a career, find a partner, or for other reasons.

“Again, the field of infertility management has its own ethical dilemmas, but these are powerful options that women can take advantage of,” said Dr. Reyes. ■

Costs of Infertility Treatment Costs vary based on treatment and location, but the bottom line is infertility treatment is expensive -just one cycle can cost anywhere from $10,000 up to $25,000.

And insurance often covers only a very small portion of the treatment (15 percent of the cost at best).

The National Institute of Health (NIH) monitored approximately 400 women/couples going through infertility treatments over an 18-month period in 2010-11 to determine the costs of treatment.

These were the average costs of treatment: • Medication only - $1,200 • In-Vitro Fertilization - $24,000 • In-Vitro Fertilization with donor eggs - $38,000 The study also found that patients with successful outcomes – those who had a baby within 18 months of starting treatment – paid an average of $61,000.

While credit cards, health savings accounts and borrowing money are always options, there are also local support groups and programs across the country which offer assistance as well.

Visit the RESOLVE website (www.resolve.org) and click on the “making treatment affordable” tab to learn more.

Source: RESOLVE – The National Infertility Association (www.resolve.org) may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 27

HER HOME

SPONSORED SECTION

&

Design N

Interiors

orth Atlanta is a hub for trendy-yet-refined interior decor. With plenty of brick and mortar stores to choose from, the difficult part is picking which styles best reflect your personality and taste.

Below, experts offer their views on designing for the Life Styles of today.

Your lifestyle… a reflection of creative design

T

he way we have always approached creative design at Tuscany Fine Furnishings, begins with exploring our customers lifestyle.

Lifestyle, encompasses a broad array of different life and living preferences from cultural and educational, to family, career, activities and entertainment. Each having its own significance and value as a reflection of each families own unique lifestyle preferences.

Interior designing for lifestyles has been a hallmark at Tuscany as we enter our 15th year, serving Atlanta’s Northside Communities.

We routinely first engage with customers or clients by exploring their current lifestyle preferences with regard to each customer project.

We take a deep dive approach into their, “Way of Life” ,.i.e..

Children? Ages? Pets? Activities? Sports? Customs? Daily Routine?

Budget? Space Designed? Ways Customer Entertain? Arts? Science?

Home Office? and more…

We follow up with site visits prior to even beginning any project, and then and only then, do we present customer solutions in the form of space planning, showroom staging and final onsite placement. Of course, our objective is to maintain the greatest level of customer service and support through each projects installation and completion.

We know our customers appreciate Tuscany’s approach, focusing on our customer’s lifestyle and way of life as a reflection of our creative design, when furnishing their beautiful homes. ■ Kathy McConnell, Owner and Interior Designer, Tuscany Fine Furnishings, Offering Life Style Fine Furnishings, Decorative Accessories and Design Services for Every Room in Your Home, 1570 Holcomb Bridge Rd. Suite 315, in Roswell, 770-993-0640 ext. 2, Showroom Hours: MonSat 10-6 p.m. Sun. 1-5 p.m…featuring… 14,313 FACEBOOK FOLLOWERS! TUSCANYFINEFURNISHINGS.COM

28 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

HER HOME

1. $6,599,000 1865 Bethany Way Milton, Georgia 30004 8 Beds 9 Full Baths 2 Half Baths 18,984 SqFt Built in 2003 26.00 Acres

top

10

Most expensive residential real estate in north fulton

2. $5,250,000 1483 Jones Road

Roswell, Georgia 30075 15 Beds 15 Full Baths 19,412 SqFt Built in 2000 10.14 Acres

List complied by The Butler Swayne Team - Berkshire Hathaway HomeServices Georgia Properties on 4/13/18.

3. $4,998,000 - 700 Foxhollow Run Milton, Georgia 30004 10 Beds 10 Full Baths 4 Half Baths 18,265 SqFt Built in2002 19.74 Acres 30 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

4. $4,600,000 3236 Bally Forest Drive Milton, Georgia 30004 7 Beds 7 Full Baths 3 Half Baths 16,500 SqFt Built in 2014 4.00 Acres

5. $4,200,000 16066 Manor Club Drive Milton, Georgia 30004 6 Beds 6 Full Baths 2 Half Baths 13,500 SqFt Built in 2017 1.75 Acres

6. $3,746,729 15750 Freemanville Road Milton, Georgia 30004 5 Beds 6 Full Baths 2 Half Baths 10,679 SqFt Built in 2005 17.40 Acres

7. $3,500,000 490 Covington Cove

Alpharetta, Georgia 30022-5572 7 Beds 8 Full Baths 3 Half Baths 9,212 SqFt Built in2002 1.44 Acres â–º See HER HOME, Page 32

may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 31

▼ Continued from Page 31

HER HOME

9. $3,200,000 4500 Candacraig

Johns Creek, Georgia 30022 7 Beds 6 Full Baths 2 Half Baths 10,000 SqFt Built in1994 5.00 Acres

8. $3,500,000 14785 Bluff Road E Milton, Georgia 30004 6 Beds 7 Full Baths 12,854 SqFt Built in 2001 9.99 Acres

10. $3,100,000 - 9370 Colonnade Trail Johns Creek, Georgia 30022 7 Beds, 10 Full Baths, 2 Half Baths 14,627 SqFt, Built in1996, 1.40 Acres

March Sales Leaders Grace Yoon Norcross 404-514-1000

Fiona Wang Norcross 770-380-9307

Ruby Zhuang Norcross 678-521-1250

Randy Crowe Amber Jones McDonough 678-776-1890

Charles Long Cartersville 706-252-0610

Lynn Roman McDonough 404-580-8210

Vicky Moss Cumming 404-906-1784

Jessica Garner Kathy Manzella Property Management Cumming 770-853-4717 770-330-7363

Vicki Andrews Cumming 678-577-2347

Alpharetta - Crabapple/Roswell/Milton 282 Rucker Road, Suite 110 • Alpharetta, GA 30004 | Office: (678) 240-2201 Atlanta NE - Norcross 4870 Peachtree Industrial Blvd. • Norcross, GA 30071 | Office: (770) 255-3380 Cartersville 477 East Main Street • Cartersville, GA 30121 | Office: (770) 607-2801 Cumming 5940 Bethelview Road • Cumming, GA 30040 | Office: (678) 845-1200 Dawsonville 391 Quill Lane, Suite 150 • Dawsonville, GA 30534 | Office: (706) 265-3273 Douglasville 2092 Fairburn Road • Douglasville, GA 30135 | Office: (770) 947-2400

Vanessa Williams Douglasville 404-213-0422

Judy Chin Norcross 770-864-4362

Steve Rogers Cartersville 470-315-0111

Cindy Zhao Johns Creek 770-380-5708

Hall County/Lake Lanier 956 B Dawsonville Hwy, Suite 301 • Gainesville, GA 30501 | Office: (770) 535-8301 Johns Creek/Alpharetta/Duluth 9945 Jones Bridge Rd, Suite 201 • Johns Creek, GA 30022 | Office: (678) 867-2345 McDonough/Southern Crescent 2124 Jodeco Road • McDonough, GA 30253 | Office: (678) 583-9995 Smyrna 1322 Concord Rd SE • Smyrna, GA 30080 | Office: (770) 805-9652 Woodstock - Cobb Cherokee 13190 Highway 92, Suite 100-110 • Woodstock, GA 30188 | Office: (770) 517-2272 Commercial Division 5940 Bethelview Road • Cumming, GA 30040 | Office: (678) 845-1233

View ALL area homes at CRYE-LEIKE.com 32 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

Erin Thomas Cartersville 770-377-5814

Like mother, like daughter

GOOD BOOKS

Mother-daughter pair planning more children’s books after ‘awesome’ first effort

By KATHY DES JARDINS CIOFFI Contributing Writer

R

osalind and Maggie Bunn could write a book about mothers and daughters working together. That’s because they have worked together — writing a book.

Their co-authored effort, “Once Upon A Zoo,” debuted in April. It was Rosalind’s sixth children’s title and the first for Maggie, 29.

In the process, the Bunns joined a host of other mother-daughter writing duos, including Mary Higgins Clark, who penned five suspense novels with her daughter Carol Higgins Clark.

Jodi Picoult collaborated with her teen daughter, Samantha van Leer, on two young adult novels. Books by Lisa Scottoline and her daughter Francesca Serritella are New York Times bestsellers.

At the Bunns’ book events, however, fans might arrive clutching stuffed animals, ready to soak in the tale of Princess and her search for a real pet to add to her own stuffed menagerie.

The idea of collaborating with Maggie first came to Rosalind, a teacher at Marietta’s East Side Elementary School, while she was cleaning out her three adult daughters’ bedrooms. Sifting through childhood mementos she hadn’t seen in years, Rosalind was struck by Maggie’s well-crafted school assignments.

“I always hated writing,” Maggie said, laughing, “but I always did pretty well.”

Soon, they were hammering ideas into a story. With Maggie working as a women’s clothing corporation manager in Little Rock, Ark., much of the writing was done over the phone.

“We went line by line and, if both of us didn’t agree on it, we tweaked it until we did — and then moved to the next line,” Maggie said.

“The typical mother-daughter, teenage-early 20s angst? None of that was in there,” Rosalind said. “It was two adults working on a book.”

Having co-written three of her five previous titles with other authors,

“Once Upon A Zoo” was co-written by the mother-daughter duo of Maggie Bunn, left, and her mom, Rosalind Bunn. The children’s book was Maggie’s first and Rosalind’s sixth.

Rosalind welcomed a relaxing work relationship made possible by a close personal relationship.

“It was an awesome experience overall,” Maggie said. “I feel I learned a lot about writing, and I definitely feel like we’re closer because of it.”

Once they finished the manuscript, off it went to Rosalind’s publisher, Deeds Publishing in Athens. Deeds secured an illustrator, Keller Pyle, and, 14 months later, Maggie and Rosalind’s names — in that order, as Rosalind requested — appeared on a hardcover work of juvenile fiction.

“I felt like I’ve been listed first a few times,” Rosalind explained.

“Besides, it was a debut book, and it was a true collaboration, which is rare.”

Underscoring the success of their partnership, Maggie recently relocated to metro Atlanta and is even living with her parents untill she gets settled. The arrangement will simplify a summer of shared book appearances. Traveling together will also help them hash out their next book, “Beau’s Bayou Treasure,” a picture book featuring animals and environments from Rosalind’s native Louisiana.

It’s just one of many ideas they have for future works — written together, and separately.

Saying her daughter clearly has the talent and drive to be an author in her own right, Rosalind happily said, “It’s tag, you’re it. Write your own stories.” ■

Contributing journalist, Kathy Des Jardins Cioffi. Owner of Johns Creek’s KRC Communications.

Connect with her at krccom.com. may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 33

WOMEN IN ART

34 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

WOMEN IN ART

Customized jewelry wit h flair Local artist designs personalized pieces

By JULIA GROCHOWSKI julia@northsidewoman.com

I

PHOTOS PROVIDED BY TRACY O’BRIEN

t’s all about personalization for jewelry maker Tracy O’Brien.

“I want to give people a piece that’s full of sentimental meaning,” O’Brien said.

“A lot of people have sweet little inside jokes or nicknames. With this jewelry, they can give those to each other. It’s also just a great memento for your kids.”

O’Brien, who has taken several metalsmithing classes, sells multiple styles of jewelry. Her metallic cuffs with hand-stamped personalized messages are her best sellers.

“My current obsession is hammering the life into metal and collecting quotes that make me laugh out loud or give me a huge lump in my throat,” O’Brien said. “I love creating jewelry that is simple and is the ‘go to’ piece you want to wear every day, because it is sentimental or silly or holds special memory for you.”

It was a necklace, a gift from a friend, that inspired her to create her own business making personalized jewelry.

“When I had my daughters and they were young, I was looking for some sort of creative outlet,” she said. “A friend of mine then gave me Jewelry maker Tracy O’Brien stands in her art studio. a necklace with my daughters’ names on it, and I loved it.”

Thirteen years later, O’Brien’s shop is still going strong. What originally started as her own website has grown to become a well-established Etsy shop – elenagrace – with more than 1,600 sales and over 400 five-star reviews since 2008. She has since expanded to sell locally in Alpharetta and Cumming.

The shop is named after her two twin daughters – their middle names.

On Etsy, O’Brien mostly sells slim metal cuffs in gold, sterling silver and rose gold. The cuffs can be personalized on the outside or, for a more secretive message, on the inside. Each piece is individually handstamped, which can make the letter heights or spacing less exact.

But this method is what makes every cuff look uniquely beautiful, O’Brien said.

Some of the more common stamps include people’s names or special dates. The cuffs also frequently contain short phrases or mantras, like “love as deep as the sea,” “she believed she could, so she did,” and “your crazy matches my crazy.”

O’Brien also sells her products in a few local boutiques, with a wider range of pieces, including necklaces and earrings. People can find her creations in downtown Alpharetta at Sis & Moon’s, which features works by several local artists. She also sells at The Gibson Co. in Cumming.

“It’s really neat to meet some of your longtime customers or people you’ve met through Instagram in person,” O’Brien said.

Currently, O’Brien is working on a ready-to-ship line, as well as a wholesale line.

To see O’Brien’s works or to order from her, visit etsy.com/shop/elenagrace or Instagram at @ elenagracejewelry. ■ may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 35

SHE's SEXY

Make date night a great night

By ELAINE WILCO, MA, LPC Contributing Writer

M

ay is the month we celebrate Mother’s Day, and a well-deserved celebration it is. But, for a lot of women, the demands of taking care of kids, home and maybe an outside job as well means there is little time, money, energy or motivation left for just being a couple. Something, somewhere has to give … and so there goes Date Night.

Part of the problem is in the experience — a night out at a restaurant or movie just doesn’t feel all that different than an evening at home.

Maybe it’s time to start re-thinking the very definition of Date Night, so that it becomes more rewarding, meaningful and fun for both people.

So, what is Date Night about? It’s a chance for married people to experience something of what brought them together in the first place, a chance to have a good time and to function as two adults with interesting things to say to each other. But how can you find something new to talk about when life is the same old thing? The key is to let the activity of Date Night be the new thing!

In other words, skip the dinner and movie, and try something new.

Depending on your interests, go cosmic bowling or go-karting, or go to a shooting range — adrenaline is great for putting excitement into a relationship. Or, take a class in something that’s relatively new for both of you — try cooking, or conversational French, or oil painting or wine tasting.

And who says Date Night has to happen at night? Drop the kids off at a friend’s house, and go rock climbing, biking or antiquing. Visit a museum or an open house, or just feed the ducks on the river.

Whatever you decide, make time together to re-connect. If at the end of a big night out there’s no energy left for sex, that’s OK, too. Just make sure you also have another kind of Date Night – an “intimacy date,” where you stay home and the activity is all about the two of you! ■

Elaine Wilco is a Licensed Professional Counselor with over 20 years of experience. She maintains a private practice in Alpharetta focused on helping those with intimacy issues.

Follow her at facebook.com/IntimacyAtlanta.

36 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

BARTENDER OF THE MONTH

Ask Cody at South Main Kitchen to make you a Blood, Smoke & Tears

BLOOD, SMOKE & TEARS 1oz of Mezcal

(or any of their handcrafted cocktails)

3/4oz Aperol 3/4oz Domaine De Canton 3/4oz Blood Orange Juice 3/4oz Lime Juice 3/4oz Agave Shake, strain into chilled coupe and garnish wuth edible flower.

Welcoming New Patients!

Dr. Bitan Ghosh is a board-certified physician in internal medicine, dedicated to serving patients with compassionate, attentive care. She offers a full range of primary care services for adult patients, including chronic disease management, acute illness care and comprehensive preventative medicine, serving with the time and attention you need to achieve and maintain good health.

Bitan Ghosh, M.D.

Board Certified, Internal Medicine

Dr. Ghosh is welcoming new patients, accepts most insurance plans and offers a convenient location for the Greater Atlanta and North Fulton communities.

• • • • •

Welcoming new patients Most insurance plans accepted Same-day appointments available Convenient location Free Parking

Office Location:

10745 Westside Way Suite 125 Alpharetta, GA 30009

Call (770) 410-4610 for an appointment!

InternalMedicinePracticeofNorthside.com

may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 37

NSW NORTHSIDE WOMAN

HER GARDEN

for women by women

Pick up Northside Woman at any of the following locations: Alpharetta

2B Whole Bakery Anna Bella Fine Lingerie ARIA Salon Brazilian Wax by Andreia Cactus Car Wash Capstone Chiropractic Cuzi Fresh Café Expedia Cruiseship Centers Fresco Art Galerie & Café Glow Anti-Aging Center and Medical Spa Home Expressions Honey & Hazel Boutique Iroff & Son Jewelry Mammoth Car Wash & Detail Salon Marmi Shoes – Avalon Metropolitan Club Mind & Body Day Spa My Friend’s Place Never Enough Thyme Queen of Hearts The Joint Alpharetta Youthtopia Med Spa Cumming

ARIA Salon Atlanta Diamond Design Celebration Village Senior Living Cumming-Forsyth Chamber of Commerce Don’s Farmers Market Keller Williams

Paul Martin Interiors Johns Creek

Atlanta Diamond Design Brooklyn Bagel Deli Cindy Gaines Interiors Johns Creek Chamber of Commerce Shoe Gallery Taylor Brooks Hair Salon The Red Hound Gifts The Joint Johns Creek Town Center The Joint Haynes Bridge Village Animal Hospital Milton

PIEDMONT Urgent Care Loving Hands Animal Clinic Roswell

Aesthetic Specialty Centre Facelogic Spa Georgian Lakeside Assisted Living JH Design Studio Roswell CVB Roswell Dental Care Raiford Gallery Roswell Habitat for Humanity Re-Store Shoe Gallery The Joint Roswell Tuscany Fine Furnishings Wedding Angels

770-442-3278 www.northsidewoman.com

From Mom to Glam-ma:

Mother’s Day gifts for the gardener in your life

By ABRA LEE

Contributing Writer

T

oday’s gardeners have some real swag about themselves, and it’s time to step up your gift-giving skills!

Win Mother’s Day with these gift ideas for your favorite gardening mom.

• When mom is the fabulous type, luxurious garden appliances by Garden Glory will speak to her heart. From Framed Banded Jewel Beetle www.bugunderglass.com gold-colored Gold Digger gloves and diamond-shaped spades and watering cans to rusty-rose garden hoses, these fashionable products will delight the most hard-to-please gardener. www.gardenglory.com • Want to splurge on that hip urban mama? Check out The Subversive Gardener’s brass or 24-karat gold spades, shovels and rake nail dusters. Adorned with Swarovski crystal, these gorgeous guerrilla garden tools double as accessories and fit on the finger as rings. www.subversivegardener.com/shop-usd/ • A garden-loving grandma (or Glam-ma) deserves something unique. So surprise her with framed insect art, y’all! Bug Under Glass designs sustainably harvested specimens of insects, using museumgrade materials. All pieces are handcrafted by an entomologist and come with a history of the insect on vintage-style labels. www. bugunderglass.com/ • If she is crafty, the gardener in your life will be more than satisfied with Pistils Nursery’s black walnut flower press. Handmade in Portland, Oregon, the flower press is engraved with a flower image (hello details!) and is compact, functional and built to last. The company also gets an honorable mention for its propagation vase, which is sleek, stylish and very affordable. shop.pistilsnursery.com/ products/flower-press • Alas, we cannot forget those dear mothers with a black thumb, who still won’t back away from the garden. Keep her encouraged and send over the House Plant Shop from Cratejoy. This custom collection of succulents, houseplants and accessories comes delivered in a monthly package. By the time she has yet another plant on life support, a fresh new one is right at the door! www. cratejoy.com/subscription-box/houset u ln a Black W ss plant-shop/ ■ er Pre Flow ry.com tilsnurse shop.pis

Available Here!

38 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

Abra Lee is a horticulturist extraordinaire and unapologetically passionate about all things gardening. You can follow her on Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter @conquerthesoil

PHOTOS BY ABBY BREAUX PHOTOGRAPHY

TAKE FIVE

5

tips to get the best senior portrait

I

f you or someone you know is a high school senior, then you’ve probably already realized that the standard cap and gown shot is no longer enough when it comes to senior portraits. These days, senior portraits need a personal, creative touch.

Here are some tips to get the most out of your session with the photographer.

1 Location is key – Pick a location that has a personal connection to you, but make

sure it’s not too busy or over-decorated. If you’re stumped, ask your photographer for help on picking the perfect spot. They may have some great suggestions.

2 Wear something that makes you feel comfortable – It’s good to bring two

outfits to your photo shoot — with one perhaps dressier than the other. But make sure you wear something that makes you feel great. You don’t want to look back 10 years from now and ask, “Why did I wear that?” Wearing something you are comfortable in will help you relax — and that will help you shine in your photos.

3 Simple is best – You might be tempted to go all out and get made-up like a

supermodel, but for senior portraits, it is best to keep things simple. Keep it authentic. Go easy on the hair gel and makeup.

4 Less is more – Try to stay away from props. The more natural approach is better and less distracting. It lets you be the focus.

5 Book your session early – The best time to take senior senior portraits is late summer or early fall. Photographers book months in advance, so plan ahead.

Afternoon sunset or early mornings are the best times to shoot. ■

may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 39

AROUND TOWN

March 24, 2018 Verizon Amphitheatre Alpharetta, GA

40 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

PHOTOS BY SUZANNE PACEY

ShamRockin’ for a Cure

AROUND TOWN

APRIL 14, 2018 Milton City Hall Plaza MILTON, GA

42 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

PHOTOS BY SUZANNE PACEY

Big South Beer Festival

HER GUIDE

Enjoy an unforgettable day in Georgia’s beautiful countryside

By CHARMAINE JACKSON Contributing Writer

S

pring in Georgia is magnificent … with its garden flowers, farmfresh produce, local wineries, festivals and natural beauty.

Have you ever picked berries or peaches and eaten them on the spot? My name is Charmaine Jackson, and the first time I did, I couldn’t stop eating and picking until my buckets were full. Delicious, juicy, fresh — that’s the produce at Georgia’s local farms.

After years of working the corporate life and with our daughter on her way to college, I decided to combine my agricultural education with my love of travel, gardening, farms, food and wine into my own business, GA Farm & Garden Tours.

Georgia has so much to discover, so how do you organize a day out with your group to make the most of it? Well, that’s easy … come on a GA Farm & Garden Tour with me!

Alpharetta-based GA Farm & Garden Tours offers exciting day outings for weddings, corporate teams, social groups, family reunions, parties and special occasions. Everything is included in one price, and

custom tours are also available.

Do you imagine sipping a delicious glass of wine with friends, overlooking Georgia’s mountain vistas on a vineyard hillside? That’s just what we do.

We visit Georgia wineries for wine tastings and lunch, and then learn how wine is made from grapevine to bottle. If you choose, you can also include a relaxing spa visit, shopping, food tours, hiking, yoga or a cooking class in your tour.

In season, we go to local farms, where we pick berries, peaches, pumpkins or apples to our hearts’ content. We see and touch farm animals, and learn about life on the farm. Perhaps you would rather walk through a field of sunflowers or see thousands of dazzling daffodils in bloom at a Georgia botanical garden? We tour these magical places too! ■ As a Tour Operator and Owner of GA Farm & Garden Tours, Inc., Charmaine Jackson creates unique and captivating tour experiences for your group. Contact me at gafarmtours.com.

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www.imagemaids.com may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 43

NSW

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NORTHSIDE WOMAN

SUBSCRIBE ONLINE AT NORTHSIDEWOMAN.COM OR FILL OUT THE FORM BELOW AND FAX TO 770-475-1216 OR MAIL WITH CHECK TO 319 NORTH MAIN STREET ALPHARETTA, GA. 30009 NAME COMPANY ADDRESS CITY STATE

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44 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

ASK THE VET

Poisonous plants for pets Dr. JOANNE ROESNER, DVM, DABVP

Loving Hands Animal Clinic • www.lovinghands.com

W

hat do we do to keep our pets out of toxic plants? There is no 100 percent reliable way to keep dogs and cats out of plants. I have tried covering the dirt of houseplants with foil, putting plants on high shelves and using commercial deterrents. Nothing seems to keep out one of my cats. In my yard with dogs, I have buried balloons to pop when they dig up roots, used fencing and every product on the market, and again had little success. For this reason, it is important for Dr. Joanne Roesner, DVM, DABVP with Charlie and pet owners to know what plants can be fatal or harmful to our furry friends. If you Kurt. have any doubt or questions about plants or other toxins, ASPCA Poison Control (888-426-4435) and Pet Poison Helpline (855-764-7661) are available for a fee.

For cats, all parts of the springtime lily plant (like Tiger, Day, Asiatic, Easter, Japanese and Stargazer) can cause fatal kidney failure.

If a cat licks, chews, comes in contact with pollen and then grooms or drinks water from a vase with lilies, seek veterinary care immediately.

Springtime azaleas are toxic to dogs, cats and horses, and can cause vomiting (except in horses, which can’t vomit), diarrhea, weakness, heart failure and fatality. The bulbs of springtime tulips, daffodils and hyacinth are the most toxic portion of these plants, and dogs, cats and horses may experience vomiting, diarrhea, depression and drooling. Lily of the Valley species can cause vomiting, diarrhea, seizures and changes in heart rate and rhythm in dogs and cats.

Sago Palms, a common year-round plant kept indoors and out, are extremely toxic and often fatal to dogs, cats and horses. Typical abnormalities include bloody diarrhea and vomit, bruising and liver damage or failure. Kalanchoe, another year-round indoor-outdoor plant, causes abnormal heartbeat, vomiting and diarrhea in dogs and cats.

Seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, vomiting, diarrhea and even death can be caused if dogs or cats ingest tubers of the common house plant, cyclamen.

Plant toxins typically have no antidotes, so seeking immediate veterinary care for decontamination is critical. Waiting to see if a pet develops signs after eating a toxic plant often results in more serious illness and potentially death.

To learn more about household and yard toxins, see Appen publications or our Facebook and social media pages for information about Loving Hands Animal Clinic’s free Pet Care University lectures.

Our next offering is Feline Wellness, June 16 at 3 p.m.

To receive information distributed at previous lectures, email Loving Hands Animal Clinic at staff@lovinghands.com, or text 770-6679022. ■

Send us your recipe you might see it in the next issue!

oman.com

suzanne@northsidew

Egg cup planters SUPPLIES:

DIRECTIONS:

• • • • •

1. Paint the bottom half of the egg cup.

Once dry, paint on buttons, polkas dots or collars with a fine brush.

2. Use the pen to draw the faces.

3. Add the plant.

4. Display in a sunny spot!

Craft paint Wooden egg cups Fine-tip Sharpie or paint pen Succulents Soil

■

Congratulations Winner – Best Overall

Intrigue Salon logo 1314 Johnson Ferry Rd. Marietta Ga 30068 770-977-3696

PET OF THE MONTH

“C

ME ADOPT

The Party Puppies

A

t 8 weeks old, this litter of adorable lab/shepherd puppies have found their way to Angels Among Us Pet Rescue where the search is on for their forever home. The mother is a lab/shepherd mix who weighs about 40 pounds (dad is a mystery) but the puppies should end up medium sized dogs as adults. There are several puppies in the litter, with their own unique colorings and personality. All are fully vetted and are now available for their forever home. To find out more about the party puppies, visit https://www.angelsrescue.org/adopt/ or send a note to inquiry@angelsrescue.org. ■

lean water is important because water is a sustainable element to life itself; from consumption to cleanliness, to keeping our earth green and growing. Intrigue Salon participates in AVEDA’s Earth Month campaign because Earth Month brings about awareness and concern for the care of our planet. AVEDA not only focuses on being ‘green’ one month out of the year but year round!

AVEDA pivots their products to all natural and eco-friendly ingredients, which saves this earth one product at a time.

”

may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 45

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

HER HEALTH Helping people lead healthy and happy lives.

PAGES 46 - 55

Minimally invasive surgical options in gynecologic medicine

T

he field of gynecologic medicine has advanced by leaps and bounds over the last several years. Gone is the necessity for large incisions and long recoveries. According to Dr. John Reyes, Dr. Ingrid Reyes, Dr. Natu Mmbaga, Dr. Annie Kim and Dr. Stacey Pereira of Modern Ob/Gyn, minimally invasive procedures are almost always the best options for patients.

Heavy bleeding and painful cycles can now be treated with same day convenient in-office procedures that require no downtime and can be done in the office. “There are so many great options for women; it’s our job to get that information to them and make them aware they don’t need large incisions, long hospital stays, or painful recovery times,” Dr. John Reyes said. “da Vinci robotic surgery is also an amazing service.” Endometriosis, pelvic pain, fibroids, cysts and other common issues are sometimes best addressed with robotic surgery. As the first surgeons to perform da Vinci gynecologic robotic surgeries at Emory Johns Creek Hospital, Dr. Ingrid and Dr. John Reyes pioneered the implementation of this fast-growing service in our community. Patients benefit from robotic surgery by having less risk for complications, short overnight hospital stays, faster recovery times, and minimal pain. Modern Ob/Gyn dedicates its gynecologic practice to minimally invasive surgeries and is an experienced leader in our community for robotic gynecologic surgery, performing these procedures at Emory Johns Creek Hospital and Northside HospitalForsyth. The physicians at Modern ObGyn enjoy providing second opinions and consultations because they believe it is vital to make patients aware of their choices. “We really value educating our patients so they understand their medical issues, why certain treatments are better than others, and what their options are for treatment,” said Dr. Ingrid. ■

There are so many great options for women; it’s our job to get that information to them and make them aware they don’t need large incisions, long hospital stays, or painful recovery times.”

MODERN OB/GYN

DR. J. REYES

DR. I. REYES

DR. KIM

DR. NATU

DR. PEREIRA

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

Vickery Rose retirement resort

I

magine coming home to a warm, friendly community that’s luxurious, safe and comfortable. Maintenance and housekeeping included, and every meal of the day is expertly prepared and pleasing to the palette. With all the work done, you have time for family, friends and the important things in life. That can be your life at Vickery Rose Retirement Resort.

Designed for your comfort, our community will feature studios, to 3-bedroom apartments with a variety of floor plans and smart details.

Each apartment will feature window coverings, climate-controlled thermostat, ceiling fans, and ample closet space.

Our kitchens will be fully equipped with a dishwasher, range, microwave, refrigerator and a garbage disposal. Washer/dryer hookups are located in a separate laundry closet within the apartment. Our professional staff will provide as-needed maintenance repairs and light housekeeping on a weekly basis.

Vickery Rose’s stunning main dining room is the perfect setting to savor meals prepared fresh daily by the chefs in our state-of-the-art commercial kitchen. Experience our signature Freedom Dining program, which includes flexible dining hours throughout the day, plus these dining experience options: • Fine dining • Casual buffet • Chef’s Pantry on-the-go snacks • Room service Residents can access to on-site banking, salon, general store, and pharmacy services. Through our 24/7 concierge services, everything

you need will be available at the touch of a button, even scheduled transportation on our shuttle.

Relax by the fireplace in our community lounges, or a night of movies or live entertainment in the 150-seat theater. At Vickery Rose, there will be no shortage of social activities. Our community Lifestyle Directors consistently schedule unique activities designed to meet the resident’s requests. Ultimately, companionship and interaction with others are powerful tools to enjoy retirement and with so many entertaining options and the caring community staff on hand, Vickery Rose brings residents together. ■

may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 47

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

Thank you for Voting us Best Dentist, Again!

Dr. David Remaley

Dedicated to providing exceptional dentistry and creating beautiful, healthy smiles for over 30 years.

WINNER 2015

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

2016

Best Of North Atlanta Presented By

Our services include: • • • • • •

Crowns & Bridges Porcelain Veneers Extractions Tooth Colored Fillings- BPA Free Teeth Whitening Teeth Cleanings, Exams & Oral Cancer Screenings • Digital X-Rays & Intra-oral Camera Photos • Dental Vibe® Painless Injections • Smile Makeovers

& Full Mouth Reconstruction • FREE Nitrous Oxide & Oral Conscious Sedation • Metal FREE Dentistry & Safe Amalgam Removal • Periodontal Treatment Therapy • Occlusal Guards & Bite Adjustments • Snore Guards and TAP® Appliances • Spa-like, relaxed atmosphere

FREE 2nd Opinions!

Call today for your FREE consultation.

Same day appointments available

Excellence in Dentistry

470.375.9244 • roswelldentalcare.com 1570 Old Alabama Rd • Ste 102 • Roswell, GA 30076

48 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

Dental health and teeth grinding (Bruxism)

By DR. DAVID REMALEY, DDS Roswell Dental Care

M

ost people probably grind and clench their teeth from time to time. Occasional teeth grinding, medically called bruxism, does not usually cause harm, but when teeth grinding occurs on a regular basis the teeth can be damaged and other oral health complications can arise.

Why Do People Grind Their Teeth?

Although teeth grinding can be caused by DR. REMALEY stress and anxiety, it often occurs during sleep and is more likely caused by an abnormal bite or missing or crooked teeth. It can also be caused by a sleep disorder such as sleep apnea.

How Do I Find Out if I Grind My Teeth?

Because grinding often occurs during sleep, most people are unaware that they grind their teeth. However, a dull, constant headache or sore jaw when you wake up is a telltale symptom of bruxism. Many times people learn that they grind their teeth by their loved one who hears the grinding at night.

If you suspect you may be grinding your teeth, talk to your dentist.

He or she can examine your mouth and jaw for signs of bruxism, such as jaw tenderness and excessive wear on your teeth.

Why Is Teeth Grinding Harmful?

In some cases, chronic teeth grinding can result in a fracturing, loosening, or loss of teeth. The chronic grinding may wear teeth down to stumps. When these events happen, bridges, crowns, root canals, implants, partial dentures, and even complete dentures may be needed.

Not only can severe grinding damage teeth and result in tooth loss, it can also affect your jaws, cause or worsen TMD/TMJ, and even change the appearance of your face.

What Can I Do to Stop Grinding My Teeth?

Your dentist can fit you with a mouth guard to protect your teeth from grinding during sleep.

If stress is causing you to grind your teeth, ask your doctor or dentist about options to reduce your stress. Attending stress counseling, starting an exercise program, seeing a physical therapist, or obtaining a prescription for muscle relaxants are among some of the options that may be offered.

If a sleeping disorder is causing the grinding, treating it may reduce or eliminate the grinding habit.

Visit Roswell Dental Care for a complete assessment of your oral health and to establish a plan to eliminate any further damage to your teeth.

Dr. David Remaley was recently designated the ”BEST OF THE BEST” Dental Practice in North Atlanta by Appen Newspaper for 2017.

We offer a comprehensive list of general, restorative and cosmetic dental services designed to meet the needs of the entire family. We have been serving and treating patients in Roswell and the North Atlanta area for over 30 years.

WE ALWAYS WELCOME NEW PATIENTS. Give our office a call at (470) 375-9244 to make an appointment today. ■

Accepting Patients Skin Cancer & Mohs Surgery • Medical Dermatology • Vein Care • Cosmetic Services

Insist on the BEST Voted: •Best Vein Specialist •1st Runner Up for Best Dermatologist Dr. Brent Taylor is a Board-Certified Dermatologist, a FellowshipTrained Mohs Surgeon, and is certified by the Board of Venous and Lymphatic Medicine in the field of Vein Care.

Dr. Taylor has performed thousands of Mohs surgeries and reconstructions, dermatologic surgeries and procedures while in private practice in Florida where local and even international patients have sought him out for the best care.

He is an expert in skin cancer and melanoma treatment, endovenous laser ablation, minimally invasive vein procedures and cosmetics procedures such as Botox and injectables.

He now brings his highly sought after expertise back home to Alpharetta with the opening of Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta!

Now accepting new patients. We accept Medicare.

Schedule your appointment with Dr. Taylor today.

Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta 3180 North Point Parkway, Suite 420 Alpharetta, Georgia 30005 Dr. Brent Taylor

PremierDermatologyAtlanta.com • 678-345-1899

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

Life changes…Are you ready?

W

e understand relocation is a stressful life event, and even more so as we age. The percentages of people age 50 and above that are choosing to downsize or move due to lifestyle or health issues have been reported to be close to 50%. Where should you move? Are you ready for the lifestyle of an active adult community, independent living or will you need assistance with activities of daily living that a professional caregiver will provide in an assisted living or memory care facility? You may have moved into your home 30 years ago and it was the perfect fit for your family, but now as you grow older your needs have changed with wanting less square footage, eliminating yard maintenance and the convenience and safety of one level living.

Where do you start? We understand the process can feel overwhelming. How should you handle the details of pricing and selling your home, what to keep or donate, and liquidating what you no longer need for a fair price?

It is important to make the right decisions that will save you time, money, and alleviate the stress and chaos. We are compassionate experts creating comfort and clarity to guide you through a smooth home transition. When you are not sure what you need or where to start, call NexSeason Transitions for a free consultation. We have your solutions. ■

50 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

How safe is your loved one’s kitchen?

By HOME HELPERS OF ALPHARETTA

W

hen your elderly loved one wants to stay independent, it’s important to make sure that they’re safe. One room that’s often overlooked and can hide daily problems is the kitchen.

Go through your loved one’s kitchen a few times a year to keep up with safety checks and any needed changes.

Check the Floors Kitchens are busy places, so it’s important that the flooring is clear and free of clutter that could trip or hinder your loved one. If there’s too much in the kitchen, figure out which items are most important, which need to go to another room, and which can be donated or thrown away. From there, it’s a matter of keeping walkways and flooring clear of fall hazards. Make sure any rugs are either removed or are slip proof and well secured.

Adjust Lighting If kitchen lighting isn’t very bright or is aimed poorly, then it’s time to correct that. Dark corners create hazards. Being able to see properly can help your senior avoid injury and can help them see if there’s a problem with their food. Label light switches for quick access. Install bright light bulbs and change out any bulbs that are damaged or burned out.

Label Appliances Some appliances have buttons that aren’t all that easy to read. If your loved one’s vision is compromised at all, then it’s essential that they see quickly which direction is on and which is off. Use bright stickers and labels to clearly mark off and on switches as well as any other settings that are important for using the appliance.

Have a Place for Utensils Just like any room in the house, it’s easier to keep the kitchen organized when there’s a place for every utensil. This is especially important with knives and other sharp implements. Make sure that knives have a stable rack for storage to prevent accidental cuts when rummaging in a drawer and keep like utensils together. Help your loved one to learn the new kitchen setup if you move anything around for safety reasons.

Check the Pantry and Fridge One aspect of kitchen safety that is easy to overlook is the expiration dates on your loved one’s food items. It’s very easy for foods to get shoved to the back of the pantry or the fridge. When you add new foods to the pantry, make sure to bring older foods forward so that you can rotate the older food out first. If your loved one has home care providers who help with grocery shopping, let them know that you’re changing how you organize the pantry. Periodically check the fridge for any leftovers that are past their prime, so you can toss them.

Safety in the kitchen is just one aspect of keeping your elderly loved one healthy at home. Home Helpers is here to help your aging loved one live a more active, engaged and fulfilling life. We can design a personalized plan to meet their individual needs, challenges and goals in the comfort of home. Our award-winning home care has the heart and spirit to make a difference in life. Call us at (678) 430-8511 or visit us online at www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta. ■

Thank you for voting Home Helpers Best Home Care for Seniors!

Personalized Home Care that nurtures a youthful spirit

Greg and Hilary Eldridge,

Owners – Home Helpers of Alpharetta Certified Senior Advisors(CSA)®

Serving Communities North of Atlanta

www.HomeHelpersHomeCare.com/Alpharetta

Finding the right caregiver is much more than just seeking a professional with great skills.

It’s about finding a caregiver with the heart and spirit to make a difference in someone’s life.

At Home Helpers, our focus every day is matching the right caregiver with each of our clients. This thoughtful selection helps establish a bond between a caregiver and client that bolsters the young at heart spirit waiting to come out in each client.

For a free consultation, please call 678-430-8511

Each office is independently owned and operated.

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

HALT Stress Management I

t’s a given. We all have stress.

Somedays we are pretty good at managing it. Other days we are not. Whether we damage ourselves or those around us, whether the damage is immediate or sneaky & slow, the clincher is identifying that you are stressed out before you act crazy.

Here is a quick and easy acronym to help you see the yellow flag before it becomes red: HALT. Hungry. Angry. Lonely.

Tired.

Hungry: Oh yes, we all know this one and can spot it in friends who are normally nice but just blew their top over something small or manageable. If you are hungry, do not make important decisions or quick assessments until you’ve eaten something.

Angry: Yep, let’s check that one on the list too. Did you know that when you are angry, it is biologically difficult for your brain to process rational thought? It’s as if those nerves bypass the many filters we have and have a short cut to regretful words

and actions.

Lonely: This one is surprisingly common. If your life feels like a hurricane, then you are probably lonely sitting in the eye. It seems calm, but you feel empty.

It’s difficult to make decisions at this point because your perspective becomes warped. Go to the park and walk around.

Say hi to everyone you meet. Smile at the children. Then make your decisions.

Tired: Zzzzzzz, good morning Sunshine! Did you not get enough sleep last night?

Our brains needs sleep to process our thoughts and activities of the day. Without sleep, the information in your head is like a computer in need of defragment. Islands of information are just floating around with no logic to tie them all together.

The next time you are stressed.

Recognize HALT conditions and refrain from decisions and comments. Try it once. Then go and give yourself a reward - something you don’t normally allow yourself. Then try HALT again, and again. ■

Treat Yourself This

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(reg. $135) Signature Facial 50 minutes with Microdermabrasion

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

Improve your appearance and treat headaches

By DR. USHMA PATEL, D.M.D and DR. BRITTANY CORBETT, D.D.S Center For Advanced Dentistry

A

brilliant, white, straighter smile deserves a beautiful framework.

Whether you’re blessed with great teeth and have taken good care of them or have invested in a perfect smile through orthodontics, whitening, or other cosmetic work, you may wish to address some of those lines and wrinkles, as well.

Imagine the convenience of getting regular BOTOX™ treatment during your routine dental hygiene visits! Or perhaps you’ve been curious for a while but haven’t been able to schedule time in a cosmetic surgeon’s office. In as little as one visit, we can erase lines and wrinkles from around the mouth, ease pesky crow’s feet, and minimize stress lines on your forehead.

You may not have heard about an FDA-approved use of BOTOX therapy for head, neck, and/or facial pain. The same effect of BOTOX

that reduces the appearance of wrinkles (relaxing muscles) is used to reduce the intensity of muscle contractions. Intense and/ or prolonged contractions of our muscles used for chewing can cause pain and damage to our teeth. Pain can be in the contracted muscle or DR. PATEL can be referred to a distant site. Severe DR. CORBETT clenching and grinding of the teeth can cause the teeth to chip, break, or even need root canal treatments.

One BOTOX treatment can provide relief for up to three months, and a side benefit is the reduced appearance of lines and wrinkles.

If you’d like to discuss the possibility of relief from pain or the opportunity to look younger and fresher, call us today at 678-894-7926 or visit www.HiTechSmiles.com. Schedule by 5/17/18 and get a $50 Visa Gift Card! ■

Five reasons your hearing aids should connect to your smartphone

By DANIELLE ROBERTSON, AU.D.

T

oday’s hearing aids do much more than just help you hear.

They’ve been re-engineered into smart assistive tools that transform the way wearers interact with the world. The key to unlocking the full potential of modern, advanced hearing aids is to connect them to your smartphone.

1. Discreet volume and setting control: Many people don’t want others to know they’re wearing hearing aids. Hearing aid apps let you easily adjust volume and settings directly from your smartphone.

Instead of pushing buttons on your hearing aids, you can adjust them for optimal performance with a few swipes on your screen. Others will think you’re simply sending a text.

2. Access to remote hearing care: Smartphones make it easy to communicate with other people and that now includes your hearing care professional (HCP). Skip the in-office appointment for minor adjustments by using a telehealth hearing aid app to schedule a virtual visit. Your HCP can evaluate your progress with your hearing aids and fine-tune them remotely.

3. Stream audio: Hearing aids don’t only help you hear sounds you would have otherwise missed as part of the broader soundscape. You can now connect to your smartphone and stream sound directly to your ears via Bluetooth for greater clarity. Look for options that transmit phone, TV and music audio in stereo to both hearing aids for the highestquality listening experience.

4. Improve hearing aid performance: You can adapt to new hearing aids faster by using apps with listening exercises, to track your hearing health and rate your hearing aid performance in settings such as the car or restaurant. The apps can also let your HCP know how you’re adapting to your new devices and if anything needs to be adjusted. Consult user guides and FAQs for information on how to get the best hearing aid performance in any situation.

5. Adjust settings based on your motion: Smartphones have builtin motion sensors that your hearing aids can leverage to improve how you hear. By sensing your movements and transmitting this information through a smartphone app, your hearing aids can learn the best settings for amplification and directionality. Instead of just focusing on the sounds in front of you, connected hearing aids detect sound from all around. This can be especially important when walking or running

outside because it enables you to hold conversations while on the move and remain aware of environmental sounds such as approaching cars.

Learn More For further facts on hearing loss and hearing aids, go to www. signiausa.com. ■

“Doctors trust us to care for them and their families.”

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Dr. Brittany Corbett, D.D.S.

www.HiTechSmiles.com | 770-884-6623 6916 McGinnis Ferry Road, Suite 500 • Suwanee, GA may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 53

HER HEALTH SPONSORED SECTION

A mother’s smile

By DR. JEFFREY JORDAN Jordan ORTHODONTICS

I

’ve always loved my mom’s smile, but this time last year she made a new patient appointment at my office under an assumed name, an alias! After the initial surprise and laughter, we decided to proceed as usual. I guess she was ready to restore her smile to its former glory. At each new patient appointment we take a series of 10 facial and intraoral photos and an x-ray to observe the roots and bone level. After reviewing the information and discussing the options, we proposed a treatment plan involving Invisalign. She decided to go for it, so we scanned her teeth with our intraoral scanner (no impressions!) and sent her scan with our detailed prescription to Invisalign.

A few weeks later we received the complete set of aligners and placed some attachments on some of her teeth (she refers to them as barnacles). Each aligner is worn for 1 or 2 weeks and moves your teeth .25 mm. My mom had a total of 22 active aligners and 6 overcorrection aligners. We delivered three or four aligners at a time and sanded between her lower teeth a little as was prescribed. I am so proud of my mom, Peggy Jordan, and she loves her newly restored smile! ■

Acne – how can a dermatologist help?

By DR. BRENT TAYLOR

Premier Dermatology and MOHS Surgery of Atlanta

I

f you have a dramatic teenager in your household, the smallest blemish might seem like a medical emergency. But a single clogged pore does not usually warrant medicalizing a situation. When should someone see a dermatologist?

If acne is bad enough to be causing scars, then it is worth a trip to a dermatologist. It is no surprise that large nodules and cysts can result in pock marks. However, scarring acne can also result from relatively shallow whiteheads (pustules) or from deeper inflammatory red bumps. Dermatologists classify scars into different types such as rolling, boxcar, or ice pick DR. TAYLOR scars, and we recommend different treatments for each.

If acne seems to be healing with scars, then it is time to seek some help – and quickly. It is much easier to prevent acne with safe and effective medications in the dermatologist’s pharmacopeia than it is to address and improve scars after they are already long-present and established. For anyone concerned with their life-long appearance, scarring acne should be thought of as a medical emergency.

What about over-the-counter (OTC) remedies? Are they just as good? Most OTC acne treatments use exfoliating and cleansing mild acids such as salicyclic acid or chemicals that decrease oil production, kill bacteria and cleanse pores such as benzoyl peroxide. Recently, a cousin of vitamin A called adapalene became available over the counter.

It is a “retinoid” that decreases oil production and helps with most shallow acne. All of these medications are often an excellent starting point for acne that appears mild, shallow and non-scarring. But each has its idiosyncrasies and caveats. For example, retinoids can be very drying, and if someone does not ease into them and avoid lips and creases then the skin can easily become too dry and irritated. Even for mild acne, your dermatologist will likely be able to provide tips and tricks that will improve your success with over the counter options.

54 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

For moderately severe acne, courses of oral or topical antibiotics and prescription-strength retinoids such as tretinoin or tazarotene are often necessary to improve one’s skin and prevent scarring. These medications improve your skin as long as you use them, but acne will come back unless you grow out of it on your own. For this reason, acne treatments often become part of one’s daily regimen like brushing your teeth until, typically in late teenage years or early 20s, you grow out of your acne.

Some female patients have acne that is worse around the time of their menstrual cycle or particularly affects the jawline and chin. This acne often responds well to medications that block androgens (male hormones such as testosterone). This can be achieved either with certain oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) or anti-androgen blood pressure medications like spironolactone.

For very severe or stubborn acne, there is isotretinoin – commonly known by one of its brand names – Accutane. Isotretinoin is the only true “cure” for acne that dermatologists typically use. Isotretinoin can permanently change an individual’s skin and stop their tendency to develop acne. In fact, a 6-month course of isotretinoin can give someone a 75% chance or higher of never having significant acne again.

In addition, there are certain creative ways that dermatologists manage acne or its aftermath. For the bride getting married in a few days who develops the worst possible bump at the most inconvenient time, a small steroid injection can sometimes save the day. For the patient who wishes to avoid medication, certain light therapies offered by dermatologists can provide a few months of clearance but often need to be periodically repeated. For the patient with acne scars but no more acne, fillers, microneedling, chemical or laser peels, subcision and even excision can dramatically reverse acne’s effects.

If you or a loved one is scarring, suffering with acne or even looking for a few tips and tricks, consider seeing a board-certified dermatologist.

Our expertise really can make a difference. We hope you enjoyed this bird’s eye view of acne. Please consider Premier Dermatology and Mohs Surgery of Atlanta for your skin care needs. ■

TO DO

MAY EVENTS MAY 3

Milton’s ‘Cirque Tantara’ 7 p.m. May 3 – 5 and 10 – 12. Milton High School will present “Cirque Tantara,” a performance loosely based on the seven stages of man as scribed by William Shakespeare in “As You Like It.” Milton High School, 13025 Birmingham Highway, Milton. www.miltontheatrecompany.com Taste of Alpharetta 5 – 10 p.m. Taste of Alpharetta has become an annual tradition for festival-goers, families and food connoisseurs. Dine at more than 60 restaurants in one night in historic downtown Alpharetta. Sample appetizers, entrees and desserts from the best restaurants in town.

Samples are typically $1 – 3. Rock/folk/R&B bands performing. Top area chefs will compete on the culinary stage. www.awesomealpharetta.com

MAY 4

Johns Creek Summer Concert Series 6 p.m. Hear Pirate Flag Band, a Kenny Chesney cover band. Food and drinks will be available for purchase. Seating is on a first-come, first-serve basis. Blankets and lawn chairs are welcome on the terraced lawn. The concerts are free. Mark Burkhalter Amphitheater, 3150 Old Alabama Road, Johns Creek. www.johnscreekga.gov Roswell Performing Arts Spring Recital 7 – 8:30 p.m. Additional shows May 5. Roswell Performing Arts will present their "Once Upon A Time" spring recitals at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

MAY 5

Roswell Farmers & Artisans Market 8 a.m. – noon. The Roswell Farmers & Artisans Market offers fresh, local farm, ranch and artisan foods direct from producers, and much more every Saturday through October. City Hall, 38 Hill St., Roswell. www.roswellfam.com 56 | northsidewoman.com | may2018

Alpharetta Farmers Market 8:30 a.m. – 1 p.m., Saturdays through Oct. 28.

The Alpharetta Farmers Market in downtown Alpharetta features fruits, vegetables, natural meats, fresh flowers and herbs and a variety of home goods. www.alpharettafarmersmarket.com

MAY 8

Better Together 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. Monthly community meetings are held on the second Tuesday of the month at "Community Place" at Milton City Hall, located at 2006 Heritage Walk in the heart of downtown Milton in the Crabapple District.

Each meeting features a community speaker. www.cityofmiltonga.us

MAY 9

Growth and Development in Alpharetta 6:30 p.m. Learn about the latest public projects, like the Alpha Loop, and what private developers are building around town. The director of community development will be available to answer questions. Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza, Alpharetta. www.alpharetta.ga.us

MAY 10

Alpharetta Food Truck Alley XL 5 – 9 p.m. Alpharetta’s Food Truck Alley on Thursday evenings offers six to eight rotating area food trucks along Old Roswell Street in the Historic District. Enjoy live music with dinner to start the weekend early every Thursday through October. www.awesomealpharetta.com

MAY 11

‘Lollipops for Breakfast’ 10 a.m., with additional shows May 12 at 10 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. “Lollipops for Breakfast” is a concoction of friendship, invention and adventure, featuring live musical accompaniment. Come along with Sylvie as she and her trusty pet bird search for missing ingredients, wrestle with giant candy machines and get lost in a magical pop-up cookbook while on a quest to make the most amazingly perfect lollipop. Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

MAY 12

Open-Hearth Cooking and Living History 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Living history interpreter and open-hearth cooking expert Clarissa Clifton will demonstrate making traditional Southern food in the Cook House, one of the 10 original outbuildings on the historic grounds of Smith Plantation. This event is free. Smith Plantation, 953 Alpharetta St., Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

Coffee with a Cop 8 – 10 a.m. Kickstart National Police Week by having a coffee with Milton cops at Laurel & May, 12630 Crabapple Road. Stop by with questions, concerns or quality of life issues. www.cityofmiltonga.us Johns Creek Symphony Concert 8 p.m. Johns Creek Symphony Orchestra presents “The American Dream.” This concert features a musical tour through America from sea to shining sea, with Broadway favorites, Old American songs, a touch of jazz and more.

Along the way, the performance will thank the heroes that made the American Dream possible. Johns Creek United Methodist Church, 11180 Medlock Bridge Road, Johns Creek. www.johnscreeksymphony.org Secret Gardens Tour of Johns Creek 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. Patrons will be able to tour eight scenic, unique and private gardens in Johns Creek. The pathways lead to waterfalls, formal and innovative garden designs.

Multitudes of perennials and hardwoods await, including hydrangeas, azaleas, ferns, boxwoods and Japanese maples. Proceeds will go toward public art, landscaping and beautification projects for the city. www.johnscreekga.gov

MAY 13

Mother’s Day Free Open House 1 – 4 p.m. Roswell's Southern Trilogy Historic House Museums will be open for free visits this Mother's Day. Visitors are asked to bring a non-perishable item or canned good, which will be donated to North Fulton Community Charities. www.roswellgov.com

MAY 15

Active Shooter Safety Seminar 6 – 8 p.m. Several Milton Police Department instructors will be on-hand to help teach the course, which will cover lifesaving strategies to help in an active shooter situation and to raise awareness of behaviors that represent pre-incident indicators and characteristics of active shooters. After the seminar, the instructors will be available to answer questions. Register in advance. Milton Police Department and Municipal Court, 13000 Deerfield Parkway, Suite 107E. www.cityofmiltonga.us

MAY 17

Alive in Roswell 5 – 9 p.m. Start the weekend early the third Thursday of every month with a free familyfriendly festival held concurrently on historic Canton Street and historic Roswell Square.

Free regular trolley service connects the two venues. www.aliveafterfiveroswell.com

MAY 18

Tolbert Yilmaz School of Dance Spring Recitals 7 – 8:30 p.m. Additional shows May 19 and 20.

Tolbert Yilmaz School of Dance will perform their annual spring dance recitals at the Roswell Cultural Arts Center, 950 Forrest St., Roswell. Tickets are $15. www.roswellballet.com

MAY 19

The Milton Summer Opener 4 – 8 p.m. The Milton Summer Opener is a beer and wine festival, held at Bell Memorial Park in Milton. Focus on the wines and beers of summer while listening to two live bands and enjoying food from Atlanta's finest food trucks. Try the newest rosés and summer beers. All proceeds benefit children’s charities.

Tickets are available at www.miltonsummeropener.com Emory Johns Creek 5K Scrub Run and Community Health Festival 8 – 11 a.m. Free health screenings will be available during the 5K and fun run.

Physicians will be available to offer casual consultations. This family event will also include face painting for children, a bouncy house, free food, music and access to dozens of community vendors. Emory Johns Creek Hospital, 6325 Hospital Parkway, Johns Creek. www.emoryhealthcare.org/johnscreek Roswell Family Music, Health and Wellness Expo 9 a.m. – 1 p.m. Roswell’s annual Family Music, Health and Wellness Expo will offer free services, demonstrations and screenings with vendors onsite to answer questions. Face painting, inflatables and other activities will be available to children, along with a local artist showcase. Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com Feeding Hearts Farm-to-Table Gala 5 pm - 8 pm Our dinner will consist of all foods that could be grown on an Aquaponic Farm.

We will be serving a fresh salad, fish entrée with vegetables and rice, and a berry dessert.

Fill Ministries Aquaponic Farm, 6405 Bennett Road, Cumming Tickets: $150 per individual or $250 per couple www.mealsbygrace.org

MAY 20

Willie Nelson & Family and Alison Krauss 7:30 p.m. Willie Nelson & Family and Alison

PUBLISHER'S PICK

TO DO

MAY 12

Claws for a Cause, Crawfish Boil Join us Saturday, May 12th from 5-8pm at Jekyll Brewing for an authentic Cajun crawfish boil. Enjoy cold beer, spicy crawfish, chicken jambalaya, and live music by Suburban Angst. Bring your tailgating chairs and enjoy a casual evening with friends, all while supporting Senior Services North Fulton!

Location: 2855 Marconi Drive, #350 Alpharetta, GA 30005 Tickets: $50 in advance, $55 at the door* www.ssnorthfulton.org/event/claws-for-acause/ or 770-993-1906 x223.

Krauss will perform live together. Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre at Encore Park, 2200 Encore Parkway, Alpharetta. www.vzwamp.com

MAY 21

Alpharetta Art in the Park 9 a.m. – 4 p.m. This monthly outdoor market through Sept. 23 features local artists creating handcrafted work, including pottery, woodwork, metal work, jewelry, clothing and more. Main Street and Milton Avenue. www.awesomealpharetta.com

MAY 25

School’s Out Pool Party 11 a.m. – 4 p.m. Celebrate the end of the school year with an early pool opening. Bring your noodles and floats and start the summer.

Roswell Area Park Pool, 10495 Woodstock Road, Roswell. Fees are $3 for residents and $5 for non-residents. Free for swim pass holders. www.roswellgov.com Family Food Truck Fridays 6 – 8:30 p.m. Bring blankets and chairs and get ready for a fun night out at the park. There will be an array of different food trucks each month, through September. Riverside Park, 575 Riverside Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com

MAY 26-28

Alpharetta Arts StreetFest 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Saturday – Monday. Alpharetta Arts StreetFest is a yearly celebration of the arts in Alpharetta’s historic district, presenting work of original artists from throughout the United States. This colorful festival features live jazz and acoustical music, cultural arts performances, children’s activities and festival cuisine. www.awesomealpharetta.com

*Tickets are limited and include 2 pounds of crawfish, chicken jambalaya, and 2 Jekyll Brewing drink tickets. Rain or shine.

MAY 28

Roswell Memorial Day Ceremony 10 a.m. Pay tribute to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice for America’s freedom, with honor guard, color guard, guest speakers, military tributes and patriotic music. After the ceremony, enjoy a picnic on the grounds or on-site barbecue and a concert on the lawn.

Roswell City Hall, 38 Hill St. www.roswellmemorialday.com Memorial Day in Alpharetta 9:30 a.m. Alpharetta’s annual observance of Memorial Day is a free tribute to honor fallen heroes. Alpharetta City Hall, 2 Park Plaza. www.awesomealpharetta.com Milton Memorial Day Ceremony 9 – 10 a.m. This annual event honors the men and women who have served in our country’s military. Milton City Hall, 2006 Heritage Walk. www.cityofmiltonga.us

In June...

JUNE 2

Slip-n-Slide Extravaganza 11 a.m. – 2 p.m. Join the city of Roswell for its annual Slip-n-Slide Extravaganza. Bring out the whole family to enjoy this free event, which will offer three different age-appropriate slides (150 feet, 100 feet and 50 feet). Children under 18 must be accompanied by an adult to sign a waiver. Leita Thompson Park, 1200 Woodstock Road, Roswell. www.roswellgov.com ■ may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 57

SHE VOLUNTEERS

Alpharetta Bike Patrol seeks volunteers for 2018 iCan Bike camp

O

nce again, Alpharetta’s Bike Patrol Unit will be hosting the iCan Bike program to teach children and adults with disabilities to ride a two-wheeled bicycle without the need for adaptive devices.

The unit, which has been involved with the iCan Bike camp for eight years and has hosted it for the past three, is searching for volunteers for the summer camp that runs this year from July 30 through Aug. 3.

The camp fills up every year (with a maximum of 40 children) and usually has a waiting list around the same size. Participants often travel from many states away just to get the chance to learn to ride. While riding is not guaranteed by the end of camp, iCan Bike’s success rate is historically around 95 percent.

Running the camp takes a small army of volunteers, usually numbering in the hundreds. Every day of the camp week is broken into five sessions beginning at 8:30 a.m. and running until 4:50 p.m.

Riders and volunteers alike sign up for a time slot (or multiple slots for volunteers) and only attend those time sessions Monday through Friday.

First-time volunteers must attend a brief training session on July 29 at Alpharetta City Hall at 5 p.m.

Volunteers are simply asked to spot the riders as they learn to ride. It is extremely easy and very rewarding, and volunteers get to be a part of teaching a child to do something that they never thought was possible.

For applications and volunteer applications, visit iCanBike’s Facebook page at www.facebook. com/ICanBikeAlpharetta/. ■

ICAN BIKE RIDER REGISTRATION INFORMATION Requirements for participation (riders must meet all criteria): • Minimum age — 8 years old • Able to sidestep to both sides • Have a disability • Able to attend camp all five days • Able to walk without an assistive device • Maximum weight 220 pounds • Willing and able to wear a properly fitted bike helmet • Minimum inseam of 20 inches (measure from floor while rider is wearing sneakers) Camp host: Officer Amanda Clay Camp dates: July 30 — Aug. 3 Camp location: 10800 Davis Dr., Alpharetta Ga. — The Cooler/Alpharetta Family Skate Center Fee: $200

Scholarship opportunities: Every year, a few scholarships are made available to riders through generous donations. If scholarships are not made available due to lack of donations, or if a rider does not get awarded a scholarship, that applicant may not reapply as a paid rider unless there are spaces leftover after registration closes.

Scholarship spaces are limited, and this process is to ensure that those campers who truly cannot afford the $200 registration fee get to participate. A brief description of why the rider should qualify for a scholarship should be included with the application.

For questions, please contact Alpharetta Officer Amanda Clay at aclay@alpharetta.ga.us.

may2018 | northsidewoman.com | 59

You can’t SEE your HEART.

How do you know it’s healthy?

We can Help. The Know Your Heart screening can determine your risk of heart disease,

stroke and other serious conditions — things you may not even be aware of. It’s simple, fast, affordable, and provides insight into your heart’s overall health. Your test results will be reviewed with you by a WellStar Cardiovascular Medicine healthcare professional.

Packages Available Starting at $49 Call 770-956-STAR (7827) to learn more or schedule an appointment.

All services performed at WellStar North Fulton Hospital 3000 Hospital Blvd, Roswell, GA 30076

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