Twila Winter 2013

refinished OLD WORLD STYLE WITH NEW WORLD FASHION

issue no. 6 WINTER 2013

creative editor letter from the

One of my favorite Christmas songs is ‘Have Yourself a Merry Little Christmas,’ particularly the iconic scene in Meet Me in St. Louis, when it’s sung

by Judy Garland. If you haven’t seen it (which you should), the family is about to move to New York for the father’s job, even though no one wants to. The song is sung on their last Christmas in their childhood home, as their sadness about the new transition becomes indisputable. The song builds hope that next year things will be better in their new home and this last Christmas in St. Louis will be nothing but a memory.

I always get choked up while she sings, ‘Next year all our troubles will be out of sight,’ as it’s one of the most relatable lines I’ve ever heard in a song.

As the holidays approach and the year comes to an end, I look back on the past year to reflect on the decisions I’ve made and where I am today. The problems I faced at this time last year are so different than my concerns this year. And I know that next year will be the same.

Each year we will face a new set of decisions and changes. Some decisions are easy and some will be the toughest you’ll ever have to make. But each decision, no matter how small it seems, usually amounts to something more important than you could have ever imagined. Don’t be afraid to make those changes.

I’ve become truly thankful for the decisions I’ve made, the lessons I’ve learned, and the people it’s brought into my life both personally and professionally; but especially within this magazine. Without those little decisions of meeting new people and accepting new invitations, even this issue would not have been possible. Especially our featured article.

And this feature is really just the beginning of what’s to come for the magazine in 2014. And I couldn’t be more excited.

I could never thank my contributors enough for their continual support and love for the magazine. I couldn’t do it without their originality and creativity as they make the magazine everything that it is.

Have yourself a merry little Christmas! xoxo,

Johnna 2

r u

meet o

team

alyson banks

minh hussey

Minh Hussey is a photographer living in Colonial Beach, VA. She is originally from France.

She owns Instant de Vie Photography.

“Instant de vie” means a moment of life in French.

She loves telling a stories with her photos, as she strives to capture enduring moments. She loves pretty stationery, french fries,and high heels, although she rarely wears them.

Alyson Banks is a recent graduate of James Madison University where she studied Communication Studies, concentrating in Public Relations and minoring in Writing Rhetoric and Technical Communication. The 22 year old enjoys blogging, going to concerts, discovering unknown artists and pouring over a good book. When she’s not working, you can most likely find her at her local Starbucks enjoying a peppermint mocha.

donna hetrick

jeri hetrick

Jeri Hetrick works as an event stylist for Twila & Co., where she recently joined the team as a full-time event planner.

She works and resides in Fredericksburg, Virginia where she spends her time planning events, cooking, baking, playing with her pup Lilly and enjoying Fredericksburg.

Jeri is also an ambassdor for Protein Bakery.

Donna Hetrick, is a certified clinical nutritionist, personal trainer & sales rep with Wildtree. She owns Lifestyle Fitness Nutrition providing nutritional counseling, blood chemistry analysis and personal training in Fredericksburg, VA. She has raised three amazing children, is still wildly in love with her husband of 30 years and is on this planet to teach others how to reclaim their health by nourishing their bodies with whole foods.

chelsea islin

Chelsea is a twenty-three year old living in Arlington, VA. She graduated from Christopher Newport University with a Communication Studies major in 2011 and is currently an Account Executive at DISYS. She’s a big fan of shopping, trying new wines and exploring DC with her friends. She started her blog for a college course and though that ended she’s continued posting!

WINTER 2013-2014

valerie paquette

valerie paquette

Valerie is a graduate of Christopher Newport University who now lives in Richmond and works as Production Assistant at Donate Life America. In her free time, though, Valerie pursues her love of making, eating, and sharing sweets. She enjoys spending time in the kitchen, experimenting with new and classic flavors. Valerie also loves running, brunching, and supporting her local food community.

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contributors ashleigh lamma editor

catherine van wingerden editor and writer stevensburg, va

virginia

amber carnahan life columnist fredericksburg, va

meredith smoot

home columnist alexandria, virginia

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alice parvin

life coach fredericksburg, va

molly stillman

fashion and lifestyle blogger hillsborough, nc

allison skeer

fashion and life columnist fredericksburg, va

lindsay van cleave jewelry designer new york, ny

emily york

health and wellness washington, dc

D ES I G N ST U D I O

twila & co

E V E N T ST Y L I N G

FREDERICKSBURG, VIRGINIA TWILACO.COM | JOHNNA@TWILACO.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/TWILACO 540.840.0312 WINTER 2013-2014

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a great bachelor DO YOU KNOW IN VIRGINIA?

We’re looking for great guys living and working in Virginia for our sizzlin’ summer issue. If you know of a great bachelor, please email Johnna at johnna@twilaco.com.

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refinished A LOOK INTO THE ART OF REFINISHING FURNITURE AND FASHION

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WINTER 2013-2014

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Minh Hussey 540.847.0307 instantdeviephotography.com

WINTER ISSUE

what you’ll find

74 THE ESSENTIALS 10 11 15 16

13 18 20 22

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FASHION & BEAUTY

Behind the Scenes Reflections on 2013 Bridal Bible Gift Giving Like a Pro

74 Classy Chic & Chardonnay 86 Looking Hot When it’s Cold 88 Holiday Frosting

HEALTH & BALANCE

94 Holiday Decorating 96 Easy Entertaining

Good Enough Navigating the Holidays Being Mom Keeping the Fire in Your Marriage After Having a Baby Coach’s Corner

WINTER 2013-2014

HOME ESSENTIALS

FOOD & RECIPES

100 Holiday Recipe Make-Over 106 Cookie Exchange 9

BEHIND THE

scenes

The winter issue photo shoot took place at Rocking the Chair in downtown Fredericksburg. We had great weather and help, and I couldn’t have been happier with the result of the incredible collaboration.

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by allison skeer

REFLECTIONS ON The year is almost over, how exciting! I, like many people, find myself saying “time flies” at the beginning of every month, week, season...you get the point. “I can’t believe it’s already _______” is a common phrase, but it rings so true. Soon, everyone will have parties on their calendars, exciting dates to celebrate, families visiting, and traveling to do.

Thanksgiving is almost here, Black Friday gets us in the mood for Christmas (which comes just a short three and a half weeks later), and then we are throwing confetti and popping champagne to celebrate the coming of a new year! Time really does fly by us.

2013

I have to wonder if I’m savoring the moments like I should be and taking advantage of every opportunity. It’s easy to get caught up in everything, particularly during the holiday season when work-life balance is a joke, and wrapping presents and cooking happen at lightning speed. It’s important, though, to take a step back from the madness and really appreciate all the growing and learning we’ve done; to reflect on the year that’s passed. There’s so much to be thankful for, and so many wonderful things that await us in 2014.

Personally, I graduated from college, started a job, turned another year older (ladies never reveal their age!), and moved in with my boyfriend, in what seems like the shortest year I’ve ever lived through.

Maybe you lost someone close to you, or maybe you got promoted. I’m positive we have all had our highs and lows, learning experiences and trying moments, but be grateful for them all. Whether this wasn’t your year or you had the best year of your life, I think it’s important to remember the good times and the bad; they make up your character and make you stronger and happier, and just all around more you.

Reflect on 2013 and how you felt, what you learned, and who made a difference in your life. Go into 2014 with a fresh outlook, a new goal (or seventeen if you’re ambitious), and with the anticipation that this new year will be an amazing and life changing one, because it will be.

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Achieve Healthy Balance in an Unbalanced World!

Nutritional Counseling Blood Chemistry Analysis Cardiovascular & Strength Training Workouts & Weight Loss LifestyleFitnessNutrition.com dphetrick@verizon.net Fredericksburg, VA 22408 Phone: 540-898-5219 | Fax: 540-891-4050 12

good

by alyson banks

ENOUGH

“Good enough”. Those words used to strike a certain chord of fear in me—almost a sense of anger too. Being a perfectionist, I was accustomed to pushing myself to achieve everything in life to a specific set of standards. Throughout college, high school, middle school and even elementary school, I engrained in myself to always push and push until I was “the best”. It was never acceptable to achieve B’s instead of A’s, and if all of my friends made the cheerleading squad, that meant I needed to also. Whenever that didn’t pan out the way I planned, (cue not making the cheer squad and posttryout frustration), I would beat myself up about it internally.

When a goal becomes an obsession or the inability to meet it costs you your selfconfidence, things start to get blurry. It was so easy for me to become used to regarding myself negatively. For example, if a guy I liked wasn’t giving me attention at school, I would automatically assume it was because I wasn’t pretty enough. If I studied my brains out for an exam and still wound up with a B+ instead of the A I was gunning for, I would tell myself it was because I wasn’t smart so I didn’t deserve it.

Even worse is the aspect of comparison.

Adding in the factor that my best friends had managed to snag A’s on the exam, but I was the only one who did not gave me the tendency I clearly remember to put them on making a list, a pedestal that actually writing I wasn’t able to Photo by Samantha Slade it out, word-forreach.

Again, word what I could have done better and they were super human geniuses while I was why I had failed. This was a regular part of the dumb one. my daily life—working towards this invisible As you can see, being a perfectionist meant goal that I had set for myself and refusing to living life in black and white. There was accept anything less. In theory, setting goals is no middle ground—no grace factor of ina wonderful thing. In fact, I would argue that between—only extremes. I know it sounds it is essential to achieve any sort of growth in rather depressing, but it really was not as dark life. You must always be thinking ahead and as it seems. It was just incredibly easy to find contemplate how you can raise the bar to myself unable to accept anything less than propel you towards your dreams, but there is “my best”, but in reality, I had no clue what also a certain danger in it as well.

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that even entailed.

I even recall a specific memory of having lunch with one of my good guy friends when he used my most loathed phrase. We were searching for tables to eat at during lunch at the busy dining hall on campus and finally found one, but had to share with two other people.

“Good enough,” he muttered, as we sat our plates down and began eating. I cringed at the very words. Thus began a debate as to why I thought that was a miserable phrase and hated when he said it (which to my chagrin was kind of his catchphrase, so very often.)

that you tried your best, but didn’t always succeed. But that was also acceptable.

Reality check: life isn’t meant for beating yourself up for not meeting your invisible set of standards. Granted, it is important to have goals, but it’s also okay to embrace a state of grace. Accept the reality that you might not always be able to achieve the perfection you hope for, but that is what makes us human and is what having objectives is all about. Comparing ourselves to one another will only drive us insane and at the end of the day, won’t help us become any closer to accomplishing our goals—it will most likely But he quickly came back with a response that equally bothered me. He just shrugged result in disappointment. and said, “sometimes that’s just how things Today, I’m here to tell you, it’s okay to are…good enough. Not the best, but not bad embrace “good enough”. The world won’t end if you don’t get “the best”, whatever either, so it still works.” that may be. Just keep running towards the It took me years to fully understand what he dreams you have and don’t give up. Even meant by that explanation—to be okay with if the road bumps you encounter along the the middle ground and not to view it as being way might make things completely different mediocre or sub-par. “Good enough” wasn’t than you expected. After all, “good enough” a negative connotation at all. It just meant is still exactly what it says, “good”.

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by jeri hetrick

BRIDAL BIBLE

finding mr big .

A spoonful of Charlotte, a small pinch of Miranda, a heaping dash of Samantha, and a whole lot of Carrie. According to (the great) Carrie Bradshaw, “Somewhere out there is another little freak who will love us and understand us and kiss our three heads and make it all better.” So how do you find your freak? Channel your inner “Sex and the City Girl.”

During her hunt for the love of her life, she never loses sight of who has been with her all along: her girlfriends.

Follow her loyalty and compassion.

Don’t be dramatic or anxious.

Photo from the movie Sex and the City 2

Be hopeful, optimistic, and a little naïve.

Avoid her judgmental, “clingy” and high maintenance tendencies.

Confidence.

Confidence.

Confidence.

Be Sexy. Be Confident. Be careful with her outspoken and blunt speech.

Photo from the movie Sex and the City

Carrie

Charlotte

Photo from the movie Sex and the

Samantha Miranda

Follow her successful and “go-getter” personality.

Stray away from her pessimistic view and workaholic mentality.

Photo from the movie Sex and the City

City

And, until you find that Mr. Big, just remember, “Being single used to mean that nobody wanted you. Now it means you’re pretty sexy and you’re taking your time deciding how you want your life to be and who you want to spend it with.”

WINTER 2013-2014

ever thine. ever mine. ever ours.

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by allison skeer

GIFT GIVING like a pro This gift is something you can do together with your recipient, and it almost never fails.

Tickets to a concert or sporting event are a winner, particularly with significant others or family members who are die-hard fans of a team/band/event/etc. What’s more fun than spending time together with someone you love, doing something that they love? A beer or distillery tasting, a professional hockey game, a hot air balloon ride, a cooking class; whatever it is that your giftee likes, there is definitely a fun event you can find and enjoy for the holidays.

This gift has a lot of pieces. These are many small things joined (preferably in a cute basket or arrangement of some type) and are a lot of fun to open. One gift I’ve given was five dollar gift cards to a bunch of different places: Starbucks, Target, Victoria’s Secret, Chipotle, WaWa, iTunes- the choices are endless. This is fun because you can configure exactly what your recipient loves, and give them a little gift of everything. Another example for a boyfriend would be: a few airplane bottles of his favorite alcohol, a cigar, a DVD, a pair of warm socks, a board game to play together, etc. For a girl, a good idea might be: a candle, a manicure set, a scarf, a magazine, and a coffee tumbler. These “puzzle gifts” can be themed (colors, sports teams, “for the office”) or be completely random.

Don’t underestimate the power of DIY! It’s no secret that Pinterest has made DIY as easy as it can be. Homemade gifts are usually fairly simple to create and mean a lot to recipients because they take time and effort and show sentiment in a way that purchased gifts sometimes can’t. A personal favorite DIY is the canvas-mod podge DIY picture. It’s simple and looks like a professionally mounted photo!

It’s a great gift for families, =couples, or friends.

DIY can be as inexpensive and time-friendly as you want it to be, also. A shirt-quilt may take more time, but a simple antique frame and some chalkboard paint make an adorbs addition to anyone’s kitchen or living room.

If all else fails, bake a few different types of goodies and package them in a cute festive tin, with tissue paper and a bow. Voila!

a puzzle gift

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an event gift

Everyone knows the holiday mantra “it’s better to give than to receive.” I take this statement a little bit more seriously than most, and from the time I can remember, I have always loved gift giving. The problem is that I take it to heart; I develop serious anxiety over gift giving. I want my gift for someone to be well thought out, practical, sentimental, something that will make their eyes light up and send them instantly into a smile. I pour over gift ideas for hours, write down ideas on notepads or napkins, and if you are anything like me, maybe you will appreciate a few of my observations on how to give a gift like a professional.

the diy gift

WINTER 2013-2014

photos by minh hussey; wrapping from the green daisy 17

by emily york

NAVIGATING the holiday season indulgences

We have had a repetitive conversation in the office the last few weeks. What are our healthy options for client holiday gifts? Easy enough in theory, right? The problem is, true healthy options are either 1) Incredibly expensive (for the ideas we would like to do—think a massage therapist in-office for a day). 2) Perishable (Think healthy CSA baskets that would most surely wilt if shipped) or 3) A completely undesired gift to our point person (Think unhealthy HR Manager being gifted a fit bit). The alternative gift is something that most likely is unhealthy and goes against the grain of the very premise of our company. We don’t want to deter people in what many consider the most vulnerable time of year as we PROMOTE our healthy company. It just doesn’t work.

Which then leads us to the whole ‘practice what you preach’ conversation theory in general. Too many times the words, ‘do as I say, not as I do’ have come out of my mouth. It’s usually occurs in discussion around the many evening work (and social) events where wine is either the focal point or alcohol is a significant complement to the evening. Throw in the fall season, cooler weather and start of the holiday festivities and I just put my liver on turbo overdrive to wring, rinse and cleanse the toxins more often than I care to admit. And it isn’t the amount per say, but the consistency of imbibing that is simply getting old.

photos by minh hussey; styling by jeri hetrick

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Flash back to several years ago, when I decided to actually detox DURING the holidays. Meaning, there was no drinking for the month of December. Sounds crazy, right? Yes, to a certain degree, it did (and was!) but at the same time, it was so easy to simply say, ‘I’m on a detox’, I’ll have sparkling water. Yes, I got a couple of horrified looks from the server, but I got over

that very quickly when I felt stellar the next day If you are a speedy sipper, this will slow and I could only imagine the ill shape of other down the hand to mouth motion. party goers I observed. At the same time, in 3. Another ‘trick’ to slowing down the recent years, I have learned that life is so much consumption is to put your glass down about experiences, the people we share (a drink charm, sharpie name on a solo those experiences with and the memories that cup, etc. is recommended to know your are made from the experiences. Festivities, glass—and only put it down if you are laughter and enjoyment contribute to these very comfortable in your surroundings and experiences. Denial of enjoyment—a holiday know all people in attendance). A drink themed cocktail or an exceptional glass of in hand will constantly find its way to your red wine – shouldn’t be something you have mouth. If it is at a table, and you are in a to take off the table completely. conversation, you won’t be tempted to As I enter into the holiday season, there are take constant sips. several practices I plan to put in place as I 4. Keep the drinking social. More and more navigate boozy situations. Perhaps there is a work meetings (for me) involve drinks. Keep take away or two that you too can implement business to business. Don’t waste calories as you enter the holiday season. on drinks that are consumed while you are 1. Keep indulging to the weekends. Sundayconducting business. Not to mention, it Thursday, refrain from alcohol. Keep the keeps your mental clarity and brain sharp spirits for Friday and/or Saturday. This allows to focus on the purpose of the meeting— you to stay hyper focused during the week, work. This will help cut down the required get better sleep and have more energy for evenings or happy hours during the week solid workouts, that involve alcohol.

2. When imbibing, practice the 1 to 1 ratio. I raise my mug of coffee to you, as you For every alcoholic drink you consume, the navigate the holiday season. Wishing you a drink must be followed by a glass of water. healthy, happy and safe holiday season!

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one year?

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WINTER 2013-2014

www.sadewellness.com | 703.850.1785 info@sadeWELLNESS.com19

BEINg mom

I became a mom at 22, but had my little man at 23. I say this because the moment you find out that you’re having a little bundle of joy your “mommy genes” kick in. You change your life for the tiny embryo in your tummy.

My journey on becoming a mom has been a whirl wind of emotions, but I wouldn’t change it for the world.

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by amber carnahan

My biggest fear was what if I do something wrong? What if I’m not the perfect mom? I was constantly thinking “what if, what if?” If I can give you any advice it would be don’t EVER “what if” yourself, you will drive yourself insane. Here are my top tips for you new mommies and mommies-to-be out there.

1. Never second guess yourself when making a decision for your child. You know best.

Let’s say you’re a new mommy to your brand new precious baby boy or girl. You’re excited 2. Listen to the advice of other moms; they and nervous at the same time, and so many have been through what you’re going thoughts are running through your head. through. You may be the type that says, “I

don’t want to take anyone’s advice. I can do this on my own”. Been there, done that and I learned advice is GREAT, even if you don’t always take it.

3. No one is perfect. You will make mistakes as a mom, but you are human. Don’t beat yourself up over the first boo boo you think you could have prevented!

4. Let your partner help you. You may think no one can take care of baby better then you, but Dad needs to bond as well. His bonding may be different, but it doesn’t make it wrong. Taking care of a baby is a 24/7 job, so don’t be ashamed if you need help, or just a break.

thing your baby isn’t, doesn’t mean he is behind. Chances are he will be ahead in something else!

8. You and your husband are different.

Confession: this was my hardest thing to remember. My husband would do one thing and I would constantly nag, “That’s not how you do it, you’re not doing it right.” I’ve learned they do better as they get older. My husband swears up and down I get our baby to sleep better than he does. At first it irritated me, making me think he was only saying it because he didn’t want to deal with him crying, but I was wrong. We, as women, have a different touch than men when it comes to newborns. Give your husband a break.

5. Trust your instincts. You know your baby better than anyone and every day you 9. Number one thing to remember: you CAN learn something new. handle this. God choose you to have this 6. Rest, rest, rest! Nap when the baby naps, child, to have YOUR child. you need it. You need to take care of yourself so you can fully take care of your I hope this helps all you new mommies out there. Motherhood can be tough, and exbaby. hausting but it gets better and is totally worth 7. Don’t compare. Babies are individuals it. Seeing their smile, having them look up at and they all learn at their own pace. Just you with those beautiful eyes, the love that because another baby is doing some- fills your soul, it just melts your heart.

photos by becky kutch and amber carnahan

photos by becky kutch

5 WAYS TO KEEP THE FIRE IN YOUR I always knew that having a baby would be a life changer.

I have to admit, however, how naive I was as to HOW much my life would change.

Our life would change.

John and I couldn’t be happier and our lives are better now that our little Lilly is in them. Seriously. There are times when we just look at each other in complete awe at what we manufactured—and at the same time, we wonder what we did before we had her.

She’s brought so much joy and laughter and love in our home already. And my love for John has only grown exponentially. I knew I loved him before (obviously), but now, when I watch him hold our daughter, play with her, talk to her, give her a bath... my heart just explodes.

It’s almost physically painful.

But the truth is, I know that I am NOT naive enough to believe that it will always be this way. And, for the good of our family— for Lilly—and for us, it’s so important for us to keep focused and keep our marriage a priority, but that’s not always easy.

So, we work at it. Daily.

I love Lilly—more than I can possibly express... but I loved her daddy first—and if I don’t continue to love him more and put our marriage first—she, eventually, would suffer the consequences of that.

But how do you keep your marriage strong and a priority when you’re sleep deprived and you have a newborn constantly demanding your attention?

Well, here’s just a few things we do: 1. We read the Bible together. Since the day we got married, we have vowed to keep Christ at the center of our marriage—and so we make reading the bible and prayer a priority. Now, even if you’re 22

MARRIAGE after having a baby by molly stillman

not a Christian, it’s so important to make that spiritual aspect of your relationship something you can both come back to and center yourselves on. And no, we certainly don’t always hit the mark with this one, but we make every effort to take AT LEAST 10 minutes a day to go through a devotional, read a chapter of the bible, or pray together. It’s often really late at night, before we’re about to go to sleep. And yes, there are times where we’d rather JUST go to sleep, but we both know that it’s important to do—so, we do. We make it a priority.

as in where the grandparents watched her while we went out to dinner. We know it’s a process—finding the sitter, making the time for it, etc. but it’s important. And, even if you can’t get a sitter and you can’t get out alone, taking time after the little one has gone to bed to just sit on the couch together and veg out and have a date night at home—that counts too! I love looking forward to Monday and Wednesday nights when I know that after Lilly has gone to bed, it’s time for us to snuggle up on the couch and watch our favorite shows.

2. We have a weekly “tradition.” Every Sunday after church, I put Lilly down for a nap, and then John and I have “burger Sunday.”

John fires up the grill and grills the burgers and I make the cheese fries. And then, we sit down at our kitchen table with our (delicious) burgers and fries and we talk and we spend time together and we eat. Then, we watch football until Lilly gets up from her nap and it’s time to go back to the routine of the day. Sure, it’s nothing fancy, but I look forward to burger Sunday every single week. It’s that guaranteed time we have together—and it’s my favorite.

4. Communicate. Often. One thing John and I do REALLY well is communicate. We talk about EVERYTHING. Good or bad. I think that’s one of the reasons we’ve never really been in a fight before—because any time something comes up or a conflict arises, we address it pretty quickly. But especially after having a baby, it’s really important to communicate everything.

Talk about your feelings about being a parent. What are your fears? What are you looking forward to? What concerns do you have?

Questions? For the moms—it’s SO important to be open with your husband about how you’re feeling physically. Labor and delivery takes a 3. Date each other. This is definitely something SERIOUS toll on a woman’s body. And if you that we are still working on. We’ve only had breastfeed, that can be REALLY tough, too! one actual “date night” since Lilly was born— So with all of that combined, you’re likely not

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feeling 100%—which can affect everything— your mood, your sleeping, your clothes, your libido... everything. Talk to you husband about what you’re feeling. He can’t read your mind... and if he knows that you’re not feeling your sexiest, he’ll know how he can try and help. If that makes sense... For the dads—be open with your wife about how you’re feeling as a dad. Are you feeling “involved” enough? Is there anything you are feeling insecure about? Talk to her about these things. You married this person—so no question should be off limits! Just remember, you’re not mind readers—so don’t expect the other person to know exactly how you feel... unless you TELL them!

5. Do things for each other. Remember when you were first dating or first engaged or first

married and you’d do special little things for each other? Like, husbands, you’d bring your wife flowers for no reason at all? Or wives, you’d make your husband’s favorite meal or maybe buy him a shirt in a store you know he’d like? Keep doing those things. Just because you have a baby doesn’t mean you shouldn’t still spoil each other every now and then. In fact, it’s almost MORE reason for you to spoil each other. The little things go a LONG way in keeping that fire in your marriage.

Those are just a few of the things John and I are doing to keep our marriage strong and healthy with a baby now. It’s not always easy, but it is always worth it.

every last bit of it.

For more from Molly, visit her blog at http://www.themollybuckley.com.

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eco-friendly gift wrapping supplies, stationery & more

www.thegreendaisy.com Save 20% off until Dec. 15th Coupon Code: Twila20

WINTER 2013-2014

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by alice parvin

HOLIDAY GREETINGS from the Coaches Corner In the fall issue I wrote about discovering what a life coach is and the benefits of working with a coach. My intent was to continue fleshing out what the experience of working with a coach is like, but with the holidays rapidly approaching I found myself wondering about what you, the reader, would find more helpful as we navigate the next few weeks.

By rolling out your inner welcome mat you expand the possibilities of deeper connection with yourself and others during this time of year. You are opening to see things differently and with fresh eyes. Even a single, simple shift is a huge gift. And you won’t see a debit in your bank account for this one. number two

Invite Ease: Invite and welcome a new, softer, more human approach to the holidays. We often become almost robotic in our race to “get it all done.” Ask yourself; what would make a specific task one of I invite you to join me ease, almost pleasure? on a guided journey of How can I look at it difpractices to find ease, ferently? I invite you to relaxation, joy and look at it through the playfulness during this eyes of a child—now holiday season while there is ease and a getting it all done. Yes, truly different perspecMatilda, it can happen. tive. Think of approachnumber one ing tasks from a place Roll out your inner of relaxation…..how welcome mat: (You photo by sharon kidd; chair from Rocking the Chair might I find a moment may want to envision or two of relaxation in what this might look like this? You will be happily and carry the image with you in your mind delighted how this tiny shift can make things and heart). more ease-y.

As a coach, I am very mindful about giving advice, as that truly isn’t a part of coaching practice. So I am once again drawn to the word guide.

What do you want to receive this year from experiencing the holidays differently and from this inner place? Welcome it. Are you creating space for the fullness of all your experiences and emotions? Welcome what comes up for you in this space. What will you invite, create and thus receive by fully rolling out your inner welcome mat?

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number three

Lower the bar: I can already feel each of you cringing at this one. Everything doesn’t have to be a 10. And lowering the bar does not mean “settling” for less, it just means “readjusting” and giving yourself full permission to do so. Let me repeat that because it is critical to this…..GIVE YOURSELF FULL PERMISSION

through a child’s eyes”. Go to a Christmas light show, pop some popcorn and take a thermos of hot chocolate and drive around to look at homes decorated. When you are preparing to sit down to a holiday dinner ask everyone (or do it alone) to just take a moment and think about where the food originated, how it arrived where you are, how it was prenumber four pared and deeply smell each food. I promise Making space: Give yourself a nurturing you, your enjoyment and appreciation level “time out”. Set aside a place—peaceful, pri- of “feeding yourself” will increase immensely. vate, yours and claim it. This is a sacred place Just one last nudge: As you go through for you to be with you. Nothing to do, nowhere to go. Journal, meditate, or just sit quietly and these next few weeks, become more aware, breathe. Clear your mind with each breath, truly look at people, make eye contact, smile, following the sound of your breath and noth- call them by name if you are able(I love to read their nametags and address them by ing else. GIVE YOUR SELF THE GIFT OF “A TIME name). They seem surprised at times and most OUT”! It truly will shift things for you. Setting often I receive a smile in return. Ah, another a timer also helps, a lot. Let it be your time gift—given and received. guide, not your mind. This can even look like a ten minute soak in some luscious bubbles These are my holiday pearls and small gifts of or Epsom salts to ease the day. Light a few wisdom for you. I send them along with heartcandles, too! Your inner Goddess will thank felt wishes for an ease filled and more spacious you—gift given! holiday season as you may find it. My wish is that by incorporating just one of these small number five actions for yourself will guide you to greater Shift your perspective: Don’t go glassy eyes inner peace and calm, for you and those who on this one. It is truly very simple, really. Look surround you during this special time of the with new wonder at the joys of the season. A year. Blessings of peace and joy. new perspective could be as simple as, “Look

to do so. Another important piece of this is to let go of comparisons. Know that within you are okay with readjusting. Refer back to number one: Roll out that inner welcome mat for yourself…again. Seeing a theme here with the inner welcome mat? It works! Roll it out as you go inward!

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refinished

OLD WORLD STYLE WITH NEW WORLD FASHION quick note & styling by johnna hetrick assisted by jeri hetrick photography by minh hussey model catherine van wingerden photos & furniture at rocking the chair

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Top: Lilla P French Terry Long Sleeve Peplum Jacket in Alabaster, $164 and Niki Biki tank in white, $15; Bottom: Karlie Leggie with Leather stripe, under $100; Shoes: Tory Burch Sabe Bootie in black, $385; Earrings: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $25; Necklace: Crystal Pave Links and Chain Necklace, $118; Bracelets: Assorted Chloe and Isabel; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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Dress: Design History Sweaterdress, $170; Bottoms: Lilla P Leggings in blac, $98; Shoes: Gap Lace Up Booties in Iced Taupe, $89.95; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

wrapping products from the green daisy

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Dress: Design History Sweaterdress, $170; Ring: Pave Snake Ring by Chloe and Isabel, $28

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Top: Karlie Belle Sleeve Blouse, $85; Jeans: Hudson Skinny Jeans, $165; Boots: The Frye Company Jane Stitch in Redwood, $348; Earrings: Sheila Fajl Hook Earrings, $73; Furniture, Horse Statue and Paintings: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing 36

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Top: Karlie Belle Sleeve Blouse, $85; Jeans: Hudson Skinny Jeans, $165; Boots: The Frye Company Jane Stitch in Redwood, $348; Earrings: Sheila Fajl Hook Earrings, $73; Furniture, Horse Statue and Paintings: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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a quick note from the creative editor

At the end of this past summer, I stumbled upon a new staple in downtown Fredericksburg, Rocking the Chair. Not only are the owners fabulous, but the store is incredible. The first time I walked in, I knew I wanted it to be featured in Twila because of the mix of old and new worlds.

Everytime I go in there, I want something different.

Their furniture is simply incredible.

I have truly enjoyed working with Jon and Sharon and getting to know them over the past few months. And they were kind enough to let us take over their shop for an entire morning to photograph their furniture with our amazing model, Catherine, and the results are simply fantastic.

Thank you to Rocking the Chair for the space, to Monkee’s of Fredericksburg for the clothing, the Green Daisy for the wrapping for presents, Catherine for being our model, and Minh Hussey of Instant de Vie Photography for our amazing photos.

Top: Design History Cableknit Raglan Sweater, $145; Leggings: Lilla P Leggings, $98; Boots: Hunter Boots in Blue; $140; Jewelry: Chloe and Isabelle; Furniture and props: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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Top: Design History Cableknit Raglan Sweater, $145; Leggings: Lilla P Leggings, $98; Boots: Hunter Boots in Blue; $140; Jewelry: Chloe and Isabelle; Furniture and props: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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Jacket: Jade Stand Collar Coat in Blue $225; Top: Niki Biki, $15; Leggings: Karli Leggings with Leather Stripe, under $100; Earrings: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $25; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

Jacket: Jade Stand Collar Coat in Blue $225; Top: Niki Biki, $15; Leggings: Karli Leggings with Leather Stripe, under $100; Earrings: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $25; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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Tops: Karlie Oversized Open Cardi, $100; Niki Biki camisole, $15; Jeans: Hudson Skinny Jeans, $165; Booties: Tory Burch Mae Bootie, $450; Scarf: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg; Earrings: Chloe and Isabelle; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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Tops: Karlie Oversized Open Cardi, $100; Niki Biki camisole, $15; Jeans: Hudson Skinny Jeans, $165; Boots: The Frye Company Jane Stitch in Redwood, $348; Scarf: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg; Earrings: Chloe and Isabelle

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Dress: Laundry Print Twill Dress, $195; Necklace: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $40; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing.

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Dress: Laundry Print Twill Dress, $195; Necklace: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $40; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing.

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Dress: Laundry Print Twill Dress, $195; Necklace: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $40; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing.

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Dress: Laundry Print Twill Dress, $195; Necklace: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $40; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing.

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Tops: Lilly Pulitzer Harp Wrap, $198; Leggings: Karlie Leggings with Leather Stripe, Under $100; Necklace: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg, $40; Booties: Tory Burch Sabe Bootie in black, $385; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing; Wrapping paper products, the Green Daisy

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Dress: Lilly Pulitzer Deanna Mazi Dress, $328; Belt: Lilly Pulitzer Bow Belt, Originally $48, On Sale at Monkee’s $24; Necklace: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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Dress: Tyler Boe Peter Pan Dress, $185; Belt: Lilly Pulitzer Bow Belt, Originally $48, on sale at Monkee’s for $24; Earrings: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg; Pumps: Tory Burch Kaitlin High Wedge, $325

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Dress: Tyler Boe Peter Pan Dress, $185; Belt: Lilly Pulitzer Bow Belt, Originally $48, on sale at Monkee’s for $24; Earrings: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg; Pumps: Tory Burch Kaitlin High Wedge, $325; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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Dress: Tyler Boe Peter Pan Dress, $185; Belt: Lilly Pulitzer Bow Belt, Originally $48, on sale at Monkee’s for $24; Earrings: Monkee’s of Fredericksburg; Pumps: Tory Burch Kaitlin High Wedge, $325; Furniture: Rocking the Chair, call for availability and pricing

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by sharon kidd

MEET JON & SHARON

the owners of rocking the chair In order to offer quality products with a creative flare, Jon and Sharon take an interactive approach to business. To them, Rocking the Chair is passion, creativity, and joy. Jon’s extensive background in furniture making, repair, design, and construction allow him to create pieces for his clients that speak directly to their needs and style.

Prior to this venture, Jon created museum quality work to include: interactive display cases and furniture that now reside in museums, cultural centers, and Presidential Libraries. Jon’s central goal is to offer that same quality to his clients. With a deep love of history, Jon creates and finishes pieces which have their own life story — spoken in a character all its own. That character, then speaks to people and their own history.

Why do we do what we do? “Outside of custom handmade furniture you cannot acquire quality solid, traditional pieces with clean lines at an affordable price.

We transform vintage and antique pieces of excellent quality—thus offering upscale pieces, at a fraction of the cost that you would find in any popular chain store. A large portion of our business is custom orders.

Do you have an old table from Grandma’s attic? We can reinvent it to be a piece that is modern, yet deeply soaked in memories.

Stop in to feel one of Jon’s table tops — we remove the thick, cloudy, damaged, and factory finishes to create a piece that is smooth and eye-appeasing. As a part of the process, we expose the beautiful wood grains — enhancing them with hand rubbed oil finishes. At Rocking the Chair, we like to add our creative touch by refinishing and painting portions of each piece for that very popular two-toned look!”

furniture, design, and all things beautiful is obvious in each piece she crafts. Long before Pinterest, all she had was magazine clippings that she kept for “future ideas”, drawings from her sketch book, and the visions of those rare, quaint shops in small town America. Coupled with her intense passion for furniture and design, is her artistic ability to sketch an idea and make it a reality. Sharon has the ability to read and understand people, which allows her to create a product that is precisely what they envisioned. Sharon and Jon met when they were 7 and 8 years old and developed a very strong friendship in their early teen years. After high school, they went their separate ways, but always thought back fondly of the other. As fate would have it, they reconnected ten years later through an uncanny of sources — social networking — and were married shortly thereafter. Early in their marriage, they lived in a tiny cottage on a 500 acre farm on Belmont Bay. There, in that quaint, secluded environment, the dream of Rocking the Chair was conceived.

On the property, in the large, rustic, red barn, they would envision ideas, build new things, and paint furniture.

Their daughter, now four, served as a catalyst to their dream. They realized, if they wanted to encourage her to live her life with confidence in her dreams, they would have to do the same. They started in their garage with small pieces; the neighbors often looked on with intrigue, as they sanded and painted their weekends away.

The culmination of their life experiences, passions, and history have led to where they are today — Rocking the Chair.

What about Sharon? Always the dreamer, You can visit Rocking the Chair at 915 Sharon has dreamt of owning a shop since Sophia Street, Fredericksburg, VA or on their she was 15 years old! Her passion about website at www.rockingthechair.com.

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restaurants | travel | wine | fashion ceislin.com

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by chelsea islin 74

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glamping

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I am not really the camping type of girl... I think there’s a reason that hotels were created, BUT if I were to go camping, or “glamping” I would live in this outfit!

Leggings, booties and a warm wrap sweater!

Oversized sweaters are so comfortable and come in a ton of different prints right now. Aztec, tribal, plaid- can’t go wrong with any of them! Grab a belt or leave it loose and you have yourself the most adorable outfit for camping!

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BLACK IS back

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There are a million books, blogs and magazines out there constantly stating how chic Parisian’s are; and when I flip through these books, blogs and magazines I see black.

Black on black on black. So it’s official... black is the new black. I paired this faux leather skirt with an embellished sheer top to mix in a few of the winter trends that are all over the place. Embellished tops are perfect to

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throw on and look complete- no necklace or accessories needed! And if you’re afraid of the all black look, try throwing on a colored tweed jacket or grab a clutch to give a punch of color! Jeans, leather leggings, skirts, dresses, trousers, tanks, blazers, blouses all come in the dark hue so go get your black on!

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WEEKEND wear

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Casual clothes are made for weekends and by no means does casual have to mean ugly! With all the sweaters and fancy sweatshirts out there weekends have turned glam and comfortable! These loft jeans are my go-to pair for pretty much anything. They’re a distressed black so give off a bit of edge regardless if you’re going for a preppy or edgy look and for weekends when washing your hair just isn’t in your plans, grab a hat! You’ll look even more “topped” off!

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LOOKING HOT

when it’s cold

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1. Leopard Print Blanket Coat by Old Navy, $49; 2. Riley Infinity Loop Rayon in Amous Bouce, Mambo Pink by Lilly Pulitzer, $78; 3 Grey Cable Knit Pancho

by Gap, $69.95; 4.

Jane Stitch Boot in Black by the Frye Boot Company, $348.

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by allison skeer

With winter weather quickly approaching, it can be difficult to address the most pressing issue on any woman’s mind: How am I supposed to look hot when it’s so cold?!

Oh, life can be so hard sometimes. Summer fashion is so easy with its strappy sandals and whimsical sundresses. Winter doesn’t usually have all the bright colors or peppiness that summer does. When women think winter, they think of bulky sweaters and clothing that screams “I don’t care what I look like; I’m trying to stay warm!” But rest assured, winter doesn’t have to be a fashionista’s nightmare.

Secondly, stock up on scarves. I’m talking every make and model of scarves there are.

Chunky infinity scarves, cashmere scarves, Lilly Pulitzer Murfees (not the warmest, but still adorbs!); all colors, all fabrics, the list continues on infinitely, pun intended. Scarves are the choice accessory for the coldest days. They serve a practical purpose, because nobody wants snow near their ears and face, and they are also a great way to add some color and texture to an otherwise bland winter outfit. Add in an emerald cable-knit infinity scarf and it’s just one more layer of fabulous.

Everyone will agree that there are great things about winter. Who doesn’t love sleigh rides in the snow, and carolers, and the exciting feeling in the air near the holiday season?

Winter is time for yule logs on the fireplace and hot cider, and cinnamon scented everything. Winter isn’t about showing skin to look good, so hallelujah, I can ease up on my diet eat whatever I want. Wardrobe-wise, winter allows us to covet our new leather jackets, and thick, cable knit sweaters. I just drool over cashmere scarves and (attempt to find) a fashionable pair of mittens.

The item that may seem the most obvious for winter, an overcoat, lends yet another opportunity to look great and stay warm.

You might be thinking “Well, I have that great black NorthFa…” No. I don’t mean your signature black NorthFace from college. That girl can’t help you here. The staple winter coat needs to be warm, made of great material, and long enough to hit about mid-thigh. Faux fur is fun for winter. Or try a great ruffled collar and sleeve combination. Some of my favorite winter jackets are on the bold side; I would advise going with a colored coat. Mustard and plum colored jackets are a sure way to get a standout look. If you have more than one option, fabulous; mixing and matching your jackets with new patterns and colors is so Vogue. I’m envisioning a faux leopard jacket with a colorful striped sweater, and dark denim, tres chic!

I have four essential winter wardrobe items that I swear by; I get multiples of these in every pattern and color, and I’m positive you won’t regret doing the same.

The first is a great pair of boots. Not Uggs; actual (preferably leather) boots. Stick a pair of fuzzy, warm socks in there and you’re tootsies will be thanking you. Leather boots are a must-have for so many reasons. They are a great transition piece from fall to winter.

They are versatile in that if you get a good color (I stick with black or cognac), they will pair well with virtually any outfit. And lastly, they are flattering. Play it safe with justbelow-the-knee boots, and you have go-to footwear for dresses and leggings, jeans, or leather pants, if you’re feeling fierce.

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The fourth item that will get you through the winter wardrobe crisis is the oversized sweater.

This may seem counterintuitive to some, but it’s true. Big, comfortable, knitted sweaters are in right now. I personally appreciate the oversized sweater because when paired correctly, it can look and feel very glamorous.

Pair it with a sock bun and some jewelry and you’ve got a casual but sophisticated winter look.

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frosting HOLIDAY

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by lindsay van cleave

My favorite time of year is here! I love picking out gifts to give my loved ones and seeing their expressions when they open them. It makes me smile.

As a jewelry designer and overall lover of sparkle, jewelry is my go to gift of choice for all of my best gals. My gift philosophy is to give pieces that push the recipients just a touch out of their style comfort zone, but is a piece that is still classic enough that they’ll be able to wear it well after the season is over. A little treat that they may not splurge on for themselves.

Here are a few gifts ideas to give sparkle this holiday season. Happy Holidays!

For the hostess, wine is nice, but who wouldn’t love a new bracelet. It’s unexpected and something pretty; she can quickly slip it on and off while she’s cooking.

For your boss, co-worker or your child’s teacher, a chic little chain bracelet is classic and not too large to fit everyone’s taste.

For your fashion forward best friend, sister or cousin, I love the sparkle in these Swarovski layered earrings. They will look amazing for holiday parties!

For your niece or college friends that love cheering on their school, a custom collegiate themed piece is perfect to keep them chic on game day.

for your boss

For the Moms in your life, a custom bracelet to honor their kids will make them smile. This piece that features freshwater pearls to symbolize each child is simple and memorable. I love that each pearl is unique just like their kids.

Don’t forget yourself too! A statement piece is the perfect accent to take your outfit up a notch for all your holiday parties. Wear all black and then pop in a gorgeous necklace. It will be the talk of the party!

for the fashion forward

for the moms

for the college student

for yourself

CUSTOM JEWELRY EVERISTTA.COM

HOLIDAY decorating

Mercury Glass Hanging Candle Holder by Luna Bazaar, $11.20; Beaded Wreath Pillow, Metallic Beads Pillow and Velvet Pillow in Teal by Pier 1 Imports, $29.95 each; Mills Floral Boxwood Square Wreath by Wayfair, $79.90; Mills Floral Boxwood Single Side Round Wreathby Way Fair $67.56.

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by meredith smoot I love decorating for the holidays, but it can take a long time to decorate the way you want only to take everything down a couple weeks later. How about making those decorations last for the whole winter or even year round? Here are a few ideas to try: non-traditional colors.

Berry red, forest green and gold are classic holiday colors, but why not try something different like lime green? Not only will this spice up your holiday decorations, but you can leave the lime green items out after the holidays end.

Don’t be afraid to venture into the world of purples, pinks, blues… the options are endless. Try nestling these colorful glass votives from Luna Bazaar in evergreens and ribbon for a unique table centerpiece. Once the holidays are over, group them by themselves on a coffee table. touches of metallic.

Metallics, like gold, silver or bronze, are great for adding sparkle and interest to holiday decorations, butI love using them all year round.

They are a great neutral and add character to any room or setting. Because they are good year round, it is easy to carry them through the winter. Try pairing metallic pillows with holiday themed pillows for some extra sparkle and at the end of the season swap in a solid color.

Here are some great pillows from Pier 1 to try out. turn to nature.

Nature can be a great inspiration. Of course, there are items obviously associated with winter and the holidays, like snow and snowflakes, but try things like pinecones, wreaths and (nonpoinsettia) flowers. One of my favorite decorations is frosted pinecones in a set of glass hurricanes. Don’t be afraid to keep your greenery up. Simple wreaths are great for this, like these Mills Floral round and square boxwood versions from Wayfair. Add some ornaments for the holiday season and take them off in the New Year.

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EASY entertaining 96

by catherine van wingerdon

For those of us out there that enjoy entertaining, it can and should be an enjoyable experience; however there always seem to be obstacles that interrupt the fun and cause us to wonder why wesent out invites to begin with. I’ve come to find that there are a handful of guidelines that will help you at least keep on track and give you a moment to breathe, refocus and remember why you love entertaining people to begin with. These guidelines are also money savers, and who doesn’t like to save some money? have a theme.

Themes for parties can be restrictive, but sometimes restrictions are good. If you’re

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like me, you have tons of fun, creative and different ideas running through your head.

This is great because it gives you material to work with, but narrowing down one theme for a party is pretty important. A theme can be quite broad, but having that as a starting point helps tremendously. I threw a party recently and the general theme was “harvest”. This got me to narrow down colors that I wanted to use for decorations and gave me a searching point for decorations. It pointed me in the right direction and by putting a boundary on what I was looking for I ended up saving myself a lot of time and money.

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make your own food.

If you like to entertain you probably have a knack for being a homemaker. If you have a knack for being a homemaker, you can likely cook. It’s very easy to make a guest list of thirty people and say “let me find the caterer”; this is expensive and takes a lot of time. Now, I’m not bashing having things catered, it’s a popular service for a reason, but if you plan ahead and think of foods that are easy to prepare and have do-ahead assembly the money saved is unbelievable.

It’s also extra special when your guests ask, “Who made this” and you can respond, “Well, I did!” It shows that you went that extra step to do something special and really make sure that they enjoyed their time. A nice cheese board, caprese salad skewers and some kind of dip are always a good start for heavy appetizers and can all be done before you even start getting dressed for the party. reduce. reuse. recycle.

Lucky for all of us, it is incredibly on trend to utilize mason jars as glassware. I highly recommend looking into this if you are planning on entertaining in the near future.

Depending on where you buy them, they can run as low as eighty-five cents per glass. This is more expensive than buying paper or plastic cups, but they are multifunctional! I purchased them for the party and now use them as drinking glasses, containers for leftovers and my onthe-go beverage holder! It’s also an investment for when I throw another party, I have 30 ball jars and they are timeless and won’t change if I need to buy replacements or additional glasses!

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make a list.

This is something I choose to practice everyday for everything. I didn’t, and then I had to face the facts that my brain could not remember all of the little things that I needed to on a daily basis. When you have a party, this inability to remember things is only magnified. A list for food, a list for Target purchases and a list of things to do the day of your party is going to make a world of difference. In addition to the

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time-saving, stress-relieving benefits of having a list, if you are determined and stick to the items on said list, you won’t buy random things that look cute just because. I’ve gone so far as to make a timed list of when the particular tasks needed to be accomplished by. Sounds ridiculous, but trust me when I say, if your party starts at six and you have everything ready to go at four, you will make for a much more pleasant hostess.

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fresh LOOK

“Meatless” Quinoa Meatballs with

sweet & spicy thai dipping sauce

by donna hetrick

HOLIDAY RECIPE

make overs

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Let’s face it—this time of the year is all about FOOD! Special recipes…once-a-year treats…parties & family get-togethers. Everything is centered around calories and lots of them.

My advice, as a nutritionist, is to enjoy those once-a-year treats without guilt, but pay attention to other places where you can cut the calories while still pleasing the palate.

Here are some of my favorite “revised” holiday appetizer recipes that will be sure to satisfy your guests but won’t contribute to the average 15 pounds we supposedly gain between Thanksgiving and New Years!

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fresh LOOK ingredients

• 1 cup water • 1 cup quinoa • 1 tablespoon Wildtree Natural Grapeseed Oil • 1 medium onion, diced • 1 tablespoon Wildtree Garlic Galore Seasoning Blend • 12 ounces mushrooms, finely chopped • 1 teaspoon Wildtree Hot & Spicy Fra Diavolo Blend • 2 tablespoons tomato paste • 2 eggs, beaten • 1 cup panko bread crumbs (Substitute Ians Gluten Free Panko if necessary) • 1/3 cup parmesan • 1/3 cup fresh parsley, chopped • 1 bottle Wildtree Sweet & Spicy Thai Sauce, for dipping

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method of preparation

Bring water to a boil in a small saucepan over high heat. Stir in the quinoa, reduce heat to medium low and simmer until it is tender and the water is entirely absorbed, about 15 minutes. If the water is not entirely absorbed, drain any excess. Remove from heat and transfer the quinoa into a large mixing bowl.

Set aside. Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. Heat the Grapeseed Oil in a large frying pan over medium heat. When oil shimmers, add the onion and Garlic Galore and cook until soft. Stir in the mushrooms and Fra Diavolo Blend and continue to cook until lightly brown, about 10 minutes. Stir in the tomato paste and cook until just fragrant, about 1 minute.

Remove from the heat and scrape into the bowl with the quinoa. Set aside to cool, at least 5 minutes. Add the eggs, bread crumbs, cheese, and parsley and mix thoroughly.

Dampen hands with water and then measure out 1 tablespoon portions and shape into (1inch) “meatballs” Arrange “meatballs” on a greased baking sheet, and bake until warmed through, about 15 to 20 minutes. Serve warm along with Wildtree’s Sweet & Spicy Thai Sauce. **These work well kept warm in a crock pot or warmer during a party or get-together.

Buffalo Cauliflower bites ingredients

• ½ cup water • ½ cup flour (Can substitute a gluten free all-purpose flour blend) • 3 tablespoons Wildtree Blazin’ Buffalo Blend • 1 head of cauliflower, cut into florets (about 6 cups)

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method of preparation

Preheat oven to 450 degrees F. Whisk together the water, flour, and Buffalo Blend.

Coat the cauliflower florets in the batter and then place on a greased baking sheet. Bake for 20 minutes. Serve with Wildtree Creamy Ranch Dressing & Dip Mix and celery.

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freshLOOK

What is Wildtree?

An Organic Pantry Foods company with nearly 200 products that do not contain MSG, High Fructose Corn Syrup, Hydrogenated Oils, Artificial food dyes/flavorings, irradiated or GMO ingredients. That’s right—NO GMO’s!

ALL WILDTREE PRODUCTS ARE MADE IN A PEANUT-FREE FACILITY Our Product Line Includes: Herb & Spice Blends | Soup Mixes Bread Mixes | BBQ Sauces Marinades & Salad Dressings

Give Wildtree a Test Drive Find a complete nutritional analysis on every product at www.wildtree.com

Place an order!

mywildtree.com/donnah Find out more about hosting or attending a tasting or a freezer meal workshop or look into great career opportunity in organic foods e-mail Donna Hetrick at dphetrick@verizon.net.

Donna Hetrick 540-898-1272 www.mywildtree.com/donnah http://wildtreedonna.blogspot.com/

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strawberries CHEESECAKE STUFFED

ingredients

• 1 package fresh strawberries • 4 oz whipped cream cheese at room temperature • 1/8 cup confectioner’s sugar (or stevia if you prefer) • 2 teaspoons Wildtree Strawberry Cheesecake Blend • 1/2 cup whipped topping (or ½ cup heavy cream whipped OR whipped coconut milk – be sure to use the solids from a can of coconut milk after it’s been refrigerated)

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method of preparation

Remove the stems from the strawberries. Use a melon baller to scoop out a hole from the top of each strawberry. Tip: cut a small part of the bottom of the strawberry with a sharp knife to create a flat surface so the strawberries won’t topple over!

Using a portable hand mixer – whip together the cream cheese, confectioner’s sugar, Wildtree Strawberry Cheesecake blend & whipped topping until fluffy and light. For a professional looking finish- put some of the cream cheese mixture to a plastic sandwich bag & cut off one corner – this will enable you to pipe the filling into each of the prepped strawberries. Drizzle with chocolate or sprinkle with toasted coconut for a 5 star finish!

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by valerie paquette

exchange

COOKIE Once a year, my mom leaves the house with shopping bags full of homemade cookies and then returns with bags full of new ones.

This holiday magic, ladies and gentlemen, is a cookie party (also know as a cookie exchange or swap). As long as I can remember, my mom has been attending her friends’ annual cookie party. And as soon as I was able, I helped her bake in the kitchen as I dreamed of being a grown-up one day, baking then skipping off to my own cookie party.

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You can conduct cookie swaps a few different ways. The key to a successful cookie swap is making sure that attendees bring samples for everyone to try during the party---preferably bite-sized.

Option 1: Everyone swaps with everyone, and leaves with one bag from each guest.

Option 2: Everyone swaps with who they want, and leaves with the same number of cookie Last year, that dream became a reality. I bags they came with. This works best for larger hosted my first cookie swap last December-- parties, where it would be too difficult to make -It was just as magical as I imagined it to be! enough cookies for every guest to take one of Through some research and experience, here each. are some of my personal cookie party tips for drinks planners and attendees.

You could go one of two ways depending on timing the time of day and type of guests. Alcoholic Weekend or weekday, midday or evening? beverages like mimosas, mulled wine, and The choice is yours. Do consider holding it a coffee cocktails work well for brunch-time few weeks prior to or after Christmas to avoid or evening parties. Alternatively, drinks like any family conflicts or prior plans. milk, coffee, hot chocolate, and tea also complement midday and afternoon sugar invites consumption. Don’t forget the water!

A variety of people means a variety of decor tastes and cookies; and the cookies are an easy conversation starter. Invite friends from What’s a party without a theme? Pick a different groups, who may not necessarily color scheme and keep decor simple. The know each other. For the actual invitations, focus should be the buffet of cookies. For the use an invitation site for you and your guests’ samples, create an area with lots of dimension convenience. Ask everyone to RSVP by one by using cake stands, bowls, baskets. You week out from the event and (optional) to can also use small boxes under plates to add leave a comment stating what cookie they height. Another fun touch is providing blank plan to bring. This information helps your guests cookie place cards for guests to fill out. to (1) know how many cookie bags to bring and (2) avoid duplicate types of cookies.

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attend

If you are lucky enough to skip the planning and simply be invited to a cookie exchange, the two items you are responsible for are baking and packaging your cookies. When deciding on a cookie recipe, ask yourself:

recycle!

A few weeks prior to your party, have tomato sauce or serve a Mexican meal and save the aluminum cans. Strip off the labeling, run them through the dishwasher to ensure all the remaining food and smells are removed, and • Do you have a favorite family recipe? sand down any sharp edges. Stack cookies in the cans and use clear wrapping paper and Share it! colorful ribbons to seal them tightly.

• Is there a recipe you’ve been wanting to dress-up try out? If you do decide on a new recipe, be sure to give yourself enough time to Paper bags can be found in number of colors make something else in case it doesn’t and sizes. Try to add some contrast to your turn out. cookies by sticking with a neutral color like • Do you want it to be healthy or indulgent? black or white. Then dress the bags up with colorful and shiny ribbons and flare like bells or • Are there any allergies within the group mini tree ornaments. you’d like to be sensitive to? be inspired • Don’t limit yourself to just cookies. Would you rather bake brownies, bars or some Use your cookies as a theme by wrapping them according to the flavors. Pack gingerbread sort of balls? or french toast sugar cookies in mini loaf tins.

How you package your treats may come as a Wrap chai-spiced snickerdoodles in wax last-minute afterthought, but I think it’s almost paper shaped like a tea bag and tie on a the best part! Grocery and craft stores offer a label with string. variety of seasonal treat bags and boxes that can make this step easy. If you want to take it a step further, why don’t you:

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Servings: 1 dozen • 1 1/4 cup dry roasted almonds • 1 1/4 cup old fashioned oats • 1/2 cup white whole wheat flour (or use gluten-free substitute) • 1/4 cup maple syrup • 1/4 light agave nectar • 1/3 cup coconut oil, or butter (plus more if needed) • Pinch of salt • 1 jar raspberry preserves (or other preferred flavor!)

Preheat oven to 350°F and line baking sheet with parchment paper or a baking mat. In a food processor, pulse almonds until the consistency is medium-fine and pour into a large bowl. Next, pulse oats until a flour is formed. Add oats to bowl with almonds, followed by flour and salt.

In a heat-proof bowl, soften oil or butter along with sweeteners in the microwave for about 30 seconds.

Create a well in the dry ingredients and pour in oil and sweetener mixture.

Stir until a dough is formed. Add more oil or butter if needed. (Dough will be slightly crumbly, use a firm hand when shaping it in the next step.)

Roll dough into 1 1/2 inch balls and line up rows on baking sheet. If you find this too difficult, place dough in the fridge for 20 minutes to firm up. Using your thumb, or preferred method, make an indentation in the center of each ball. Add about 1 teaspoon of preserves into indentation.

Bake cookies for 14-20 minutes or until edges are slightly brown (and cookies can be lifted from baking sheet without crumbling). Allow to cool on baking sheet for about 2 minutes, and then place of cooling rack to cool completely.

vegan, gluten-free optional

Almond Raspberry Thumbprints

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gingerbread cookies

DOUBLE CHOCOLATE CHEWY

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• • • • • • • • • • • • • •

1 1/2 cups + 1 tbsp flour 1 1/4 tsp ground ginger 1 tsp ground cinnamon 1/4 tsp ground cloves 1/4 tsp ground nutmeg 1 tbsp unsweetened cocoa powder ½ cup (1 stick) unsalted butter, room temperature 1/2 tbsp freshly grated ginger 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 1/2 cup unsulphured molasses 1 tsp baking soda 1 1/2 tsps boiling water 1/2 to 1 cup chocolate, chopped (I used ½ milk and ½ dark, total amount and types can be based on personal preference) 1/4 cup granulated sugar, for rolling

Line baking sheets with parchment paper.

Combine flour, ground ginger, cinnamon, cloves, nutmeg, and cocoa together into a medium bowl. Place the butter and grated fresh ginger in the bowl of a stand mixer and beat until the butter is fluffy (3-4 minutes). Add brown sugar, followed by molasses, and beat until combined.

In a small bowl, stir the baking soda into the boiling water until dissolved. Pour half of the dry ingredients into the butter-sugar mixture and mix until combined. Add the baking soda-water mixture, beat and then add the remaining dry ingredients. Beat until dough is completely combined. Lastly, add in chopped chocolate.

Wrap dough on a sheet of plastic wrap, and place another sheet on top. Flatten the dough to a 1-inch thickness. Wrap it and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, or overnight.

Preheat oven to 325°F. Remove the dough from the fridge and tear off chunks of the dough to roll into balls (I used a medium cookie scoop). The dough will get sticky, so work quickly and don’t over-handle it. Roll each ball in the granulated sugar to coat completely, then set on prepared baking sheets, about 2 inches apart. Bake for 10-12 minutes, or until the surfaces begin to crack. Allow to cool on baking sheet for about 5 minutes before transferring them cooling rack to cool completely.

For more holiday cookie recipes and inspiration, visit Valerie’s blog at www.PursuitofSweetness. com.

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until next time...

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