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november 2014
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November 2014 | Issue One Hundred One
Joey Coakley Beck Publisher & Owner
jbeck@beckmediagroup.com
Hayleigh Worgan Editorial Director
hworgan@beckmediagroup.com
Sara Coakley Office Manager
bella@beckmediagroup.com •••
Cheryl Matthews Senior Account Executive
cmatthews@beckmediagroup.com
Amy Messick Account Executive
amessick@beckmediagroup.com
Danielle Reynolds Account Executive
dreynolds@beckmediagroup.com
Advertising Inquiries advertise@beckmediagroup.com bella@beckmediagroup.com (540) 904-6800 ••• Contributors Stacey Brugh, Centra Health, Decca Knight, Member One Federal Credit Union, Tara Nepper, Tanya Ritz, Dr. Jennifer Walker, Hayleigh Worgan Editorial Inquiries editorial@beckmediagroup.com
LLC
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806 Wasena Avenue, Suite 101, Roanoke, VA 24015 540.904.6800 fax 540.904.6803 Bella Magazine is the property of Beck Media Group LLC. It is a free publication printed monthly and is distributed throughout Southwest and Central Virginia and beyond. The Publisher reserves the right to refuse ad space for any advertisement or editorial content the staff deems inappropriate for our readers. The concept and design of Bella Magazine, as well as the design, advertisements, art, photos and editorial content is property of Beck Media Group LLC and may not be copied or reprinted without written permission from the publisher. ©2006-2014 Beck Media Group LLC All Rights Reserved. PRINTED IN THE USA w w w. l o v e l y b e l l a . c o m
inside:
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Bella Holidays
10
Style tips to create a functional and beautiful Thanksgiving tablescape.
Bella Eats
13
A gluten-free recipe that all your guests will love!
Save This, Buy That
14
Member One offers advice to make your wallet happy this holiday season.
Bella Muse
19
Beauty tips and reflections on creating the best version of ourselves.
Bella Do-It-Yourself
20
An easy handmade gift perfect for the dinner party host or for your own holiday entertaining.
25
Mind. Body. Soul.
Live a healthier, conscious, and inspired life.
Tales from Stacey Rae
27
How a natural disaster turned neighbors into a family.
find us:
Holiday Gift Guide
Unique gift ideas for everyone on your list!
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a Thanksgiving to Remember Holiday style tips for a dinner your guests will not forget!
Thanksgiving is right around the corner, which means that family and friends will soon be filling your home. Many of us spend the majority of our time preparing for them by agonizing over our menu and wondering if we have enough space to add just one more guest to the table. This year, start by planning your tablescape—incorporating style and functionality to reduce your stress and host an unforgettable event. w w w. l o v e l y b e l l a . c o m
Styling by & shot on location at Potentially Chic
Furniture, repurposed or custom built to fit your home, is not only welcoming to your guests, but adds depth to your surroundings. Whether you are in charge of the project yourself or you have a piece created for you, it is an investment of time and money that will pay off. The whitewashed farm table in these photos was custom built by a woodworker from Potentially Chic and is so versatile that it can serve as an appropriate foundation for any november 2014
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a Thanksgiving to Remember
All styling by Potentially Chic
future dinner party. Autumn colors are beautiful, and adding a few light blue attributes to complement them will brighten your room. Try a teal table runner from Kitchen Papers (exclusively at Potentially Chic). You can purchase them in rolls that are 50 feet long, allowing you to cut what you need for one party and save the rest for a future event. Add a vase or several small turquoise glasses throughout your dining area to display floral arrangements. These subtle additions will make your other decorations stand out and can be used again for winter parties. Accent red and orange flowers with simple cotton sprigs. Use them as the focal point of your table, surrounded by gourds and acorns, for a rural, earthy feel. Get creative if you have time, and work on small projects to contribute to your theme. “For our tablescape, Gloria made the napkin holders and book leaves,” explains Potentially Chic co-owner, Lisa Fuller. “They add a personal touch without overshadowing the centerpiece and place settings.” page 8 | bella magazine | november 2014
You will want to give your guests room to eat without being overcrowded by decorations, so create space by using mason jars and dessert plates to showcase your arrangements. In this case, Potentially Chic used orange mason jars to hold breadsticks— a great appetizer that also contributes to the look of their autumn tablescape. Consider serving your courses in smaller portions. For example, instead of a pumpkin pie, provide bitesized pumpkin tarts for dessert. Store large items, like turkey and side dishes, on a serving cart for convenience. Your guests will appreciate the extra space and you will enjoy your meal without having to run back and forth from the kitchen all evening. Presentation is just as important on the cart, however, and you should incorporate trays to make items easier to pass around and return to their original positions. The bottom line: You will most likely be serving a lot of food to several guests this year, but your dining area does not have to be overtaken by turkey and all of the fixings. Special decorations will not only add class to your celebration, but will also make you feel more organized and prepared for your event. Visit our Pinterest page for more decorating ideas throughout the month!
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Bella Holidays
Thanksgiving Pumpkin Cheesecake A gluten-free recipe so delicious that you might want to make more than one!
For your gluten-free guests, try this amazing recipe from paleomg.com! Her website is full of fantastic recipes for your holiday dinners to ensure that everyone has a chance to try (and enjoy!) each course of your meal.
The Crust:
1 cup almond butter 1 cup unsweetened shredded coconut ⅔ cup walnuts 1 heaping tablespoon Coconut Cream Concentrate or homemade coconut butter 1 heaping tablespoon raw honey pinch of salt
The Filling:
1.5 cups roasted, unsalted cashews ½ cup coconut oil ½ cup raw honey 2-3 tablespoon lemon juice 5-6 tablespoons canned coconut milk 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
The Topping:
½ cup pumpkin puree 2 tablespoons coconut milk 1 tablespoon raw honey 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon cinnamon ¼ teaspoon nutmeg ⅛ teaspoon ground ginger ⅛ teaspoon ground cloves pinch of salt
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Add walnuts to your food processor and blend until you get a meal, almost a walnut butter. Then add the rest of your crust ingredients and blend until well combined. Add crust mixture to an 8×8 glass baking dish lined with saran wrap, press down until evenly distributed and smooth on the top. Wipe out the inside of your food processor, no need to scrub, then add your cashews and blend until you begin to get a clumpy mess. Then add your coconut oil, lemon juice, vanilla extract and honey and puree until well combined. And lastly, add your coconut milk, 1 tablespoon at a time to break down the cashews completely. After about 5-6 tablespoons, your cashews should become a soupy paste. Pour your filling onto the crust and use a knife or spoon to spread mixture throughout the entire pan, covering the crust, then place in the freezer for about 1-2 hours or until completely hard. When your cheesecake is almost hardened, add all topping ingredients to a food processor and mix until smooth and silky. Smooth out on top of your cheesecake. Place in freezer for about 30 minutes until everything has set. Cut cheesecake into cheesecake slices OR bars, any size you want. The saran wrap will help you remove them easily without destroying their presentation.
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Article courtesy of
Join Member One here each month for more moneysaving tips, giveaways and all things awesome! Be sure to follow @SaveThisBuyThat on Twitter and check our out our board “Save This Buy That” on Bella’s award-winning Pinterest page.
Making Holiday entertaining a little easier! Thanksgiving and holiday shopping are right around the corner and that means your wallet might not be super happy. Let us help with some great holiday tips and recipes!
Pumpkin Pound Cake | $0.45 per serving
This season, we’re all about pumpkin everything! Try this delicious and cheap Pumpkin Pound Cake recipe: 2 ½ cups of sugar 1 cup of vegetable oil 3 eggs 3 cups of flour 2 teaspoons baking soda 1 teaspoon cinnamon 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 can of pumpkin
Glaze: 1 cup of powdered sugar 1 tablespoon of sweetened condensed milk ½ teaspoon pumpkin pie spice
Preheat over to 350º and grease a Bundt cake pan. Mix together dry ingredients and set aside. Mix wet ingredients and fold in dry ingredients, mix well. Pour into cake pan & bake for 1 hour or until tester comes out clean. For glaze: Add sugar and pumpkin pie spice to a small bowl. Add milk slowly until the mixture is a thick consistency. Pour of top of cake while it’s still warm & let harden.
Mason Jar Centerpiece | $1.75 Mason Jar centerpieces are a chic & cheap addition to your holiday décor. Visit SaveThisBuyThat.com for the tutorial! w w w. l o v e l y b e l l a . c o m
Thanksgiving Leftovers 101
Check out our twist on leftovers to add a little variety to your eats: • Fry up mashed potatoes + turn into
grilled potato-pancakes
• Add turkey into a wrap with hummus • Add cranberries to muffins or pancakes
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page 13
Bella Muse
The Breast Choice Written by
Tara Nepper
A survivor’s thoughts on making post diagnosis decisions that are right for you Any cancer sucks. Breast cancer doesn’t cause any more heart ache, pain, or agony than
lung, bone, skin or any other cancer. Breast cancer just happens to cause a change in the two things that as women we value a lot. A whole lot. Our boobs and our hair.
As I’ve traveled this breast cancer journey there are two questions that have been
asked more than any other. “Are you getting reconstruction?” and “What are you going to do
with your hair?” For the past year the only reply I had that made sense was, “I have no idea.” At the time it worked for both questions; now I have a little more experience and can, hopefully, provide a little advice for anyone just starting out on this road. Just remember—these are YOUR decisions and the only opinion that matters is yours and your doctor’s.
I’ll start with the hair. Not everyone going through breast cancer needs chemo-
therapy so not everyone loses their hair. Everyone diagnosed with cancer, however, thinks about their hair from the beginning. For those of us who did have chemotherapy we view
our hair differently. “It’s only hair” or “it’ll grow back” are comments that makes me want
to wash a mouth out with soap and possibly stab someone with an ice pick. I also now have less patience for anyone having a bad hair day. It’s a hair day so it’s all good. In the grand
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scheme of life versus death, yes it’s only hair but as women most of us
aren’t excited about going bald. When you’re already sick, having a good hair day means a lot.
If I had a dollar for every person who asked me what I was go-
ing “to do about my hair” I’d be rich or at least be able to pay for a really great haircut and a really good bottle of wine. I’ve always been tempted
to answer back with, “I don’t know, what are you going to do about your hair?” Until hair actually grows back no one knows what they will do
with it so please don’t ask. Just pile on the compliments and leave it at that. No matter what a bald head looks like tell her it’s beautiful.
Beyond the Fringe:
Q&A Written by
The question of reconstruction is a little touchier. I didn’t want
Tanya Ritz
to lose my breasts and I still miss them. They weren’t perfect but they were mine and I liked them. I knew that I wanted some type of recon-
struction so I researched my options, talked to friends who had already went through it, met with more than one plastic surgeon and finally made a decision that worked for me. I’m very lucky that the people
around me gave me the space to explore options and make my own decision. I’m also thankful that my perfect plastic surgeon, Dr. Kurtis Moyer (aka Dr. Gorgeous) has been upfront with me every step of the way and
gave me tough love when I was whining and kept me focused on the big picture. Albeit not big boobs, but boobs I can live with.
Having reconstruction is not like having augmentation so
take the time to make the right decision for you. Not for your husband,
partner, family or doctor. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it or at least put it off until you are sure. I know that putting it off isn’t easy. If you’re like me you want to get through and get to the other side. This is a decision you’ll live with forever (you don’t want to go through this more than
once). We’re lucky that right here in Roanoke we have a wide range of
options such as implants, TRAM/DIEP (gut fat), latissimus dorsi (back fat), gluteal free (butt fat) or TUG (thigh fat) flaps. Just remember that
regardless of the type of reconstruction, your breasts will never be the same. Ever.
I wanted so badly to get everything done as soon as possible so
I know that waiting is no fun. But sometimes it’s better to wait. You may need to wait until you’ve finished with chemo or radiation, until pathology reports are back or until a time when your mind and body starts
to recover from the trauma of diagnosis and surgery. Your boobs—your deci-
sion—make your best breast decision for you.
Tara (on right) with her daughter, Lauren
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Tara Nepper is a one-year cancer survivor, wife, mother of four, nana to three and happy to be an advocate for self-examinations, enjoys raising funds for research and is getting used to life after cancer.
What products are essential to creating a “makeup-free” look? Most of us are not gifted with perfectly smooth skin. To achieve a fresh-faced look, you must first correct tone and texture, and then add the right natural color back to your face. Start by moisturizing and then add a brightening primer for dry skin, or a mattefying primer for oily skin. This should help blur and smooth large pores and blemishes. Then apply a base to even out skin tone. If you have clear skin, all you need is a tinted moisturizer or BB cream. If you need more coverage, try your regular liquid foundation but mix in some moisturizer with it on the back of your hand before applying. If you’re oily, add a light dusting of translucent powder in the t zone. Now that your skin is even and smooth, add some bronzer with a large fluffy brush in the hollows of your cheeks, at your temples, around your hairline at your forehead, and little on the bridge of your nose. Once bronzer is applied, if necessary, add a touch of blush to the apples of your cheeks. Finally, add some color to your lips. Try a shade of gloss or a tinted lip balm that is close to your natural lip, but maybe just a tad deeper. Add some mascara to bring out your eyes and walk out the door!
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Tanya is a hair stylist & colorist at Gloss Salon in Roanoke and lover of all things beauty. She specializes in precision haircuts and custom color. For more tips, trends and information, visit her page at www.facebook.com/tanyaritzhair
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Bella Muse
i
Skincare Advice for the Cooler Months 5 tips to keep in mind as the weather gets cooler
It’s almost that time of year again, when you forget about sunburns and start worrying about windburn. Yes, sadly, the cooler months are here and winter is around the corner. That means long coats, scarves and an entirely different skincare routine. It’s easy to forget about your skin when it’s covered by all those extra layers, but dermatologist Dr. Anne Chapas says cooler months are when skincare, particularly lip care, is most important. “The skin is our first line of defense against environmental elements, but the skin on our lips has extremely unique properties. It is one of the most sensitive areas of skin, so they require special attention in order to maintain a healthy appearance,” says Dr. Chapas. With that in mind, she offers these tips to help you keep your lips and the rest of your skin feeling and looking healthy no matter the temperature.
Nurture your lips.
The cooler months are hard on your lips. Not only are they exposed to cooler temperatures daily, behavioral habits like biting or licking your lips can also be damaging. “What most people don’t realize is that common behaviors such as drinking wine or coffee and eating salty or acidic foods can dry out the lips,” says Dr. Chapas. “But drinking plenty of water to stay hydrated and applying a moisturizing lip balm can help counteract the effects of these activities and improve your lip health.”
Protect your hands.
Your hands are often left exposed during the cooler months, especially if the cold air has dried your skin, making gloves page 16 | bella magazine | november 2014
or mittens painful to wear. Products that contain shea butter and lanolin are great for counteracting the abuse your hands endure.
For your scalp.
A thicker, moisturizing shampoo will reduce dryness on your scalp and prevent itchiness as temperatures drop.
Remember the time of day.
Don’t use the same skincare products for day and night. Instead, use products with protective, moisturizing benefits to guard your skin during the day. At night, switch to heavier creams that offer more hydration. Your skin will absorb this extra moisture while you sleep.
Don’t forget the sun.
Just because you’ve traded in your sunburn for windburn doesn’t mean you don’t need SPF. “UV damage can happen year-round,” says Dr. Chapas. “In fact, we are closer to the sun in the wintertime, and the sun can reflect off the snow, further amplifying its rays and causing sun damage. This makes it so important to incorporate sun protection into your skincare routine, regardless of the season.” Areas like the lips where skin is thinner will need even more attention and protection, since they are so sensitive.
On those coldest days when you’re bundled in layers, remember your skin needs extra protection and these simple tips will help your skin stay healthy during the cold weather season. Visit our Pinterest page for more skincare tips as the weather gets cooler! w w w. l o v e l y b e l l a . c o m
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Bella Do-It-Yourself
Create your own Chalkboard Cheese Platter Arrive at your next dinner party with a gift that stands apart from the rest. For less than $20, you can create a beautiful cheese platter that your host can reuse for years to come! Follow these simple instructions from The Thread Affect to create your masterpiece!
You will need:
porcelain platter porcelain chalkboard paint painter’s tape soft bristle paintbrush kitchen oven
1 2 3
Make sure your platter is completely clean and dry. If desired, use painter’s tape to mask off the edges of the platter for clean, crisp lines, otherwise skip this step and freehand it. Using a soft bristle brush, apply the paint in thin, even horizontal strokes. Allow the first coat to dry completely before applying the second coat. Immediately remove the painter’s tape carefully before the paint from the second coat dries to ensure the edges don’t peel up when removing. Let the second coat dry for 24 hours. When the paint has dried for a full 24 hours, bake your platter following the instructions printed on the back of the paint bottle. For the type of paint used here, preheat the oven to 300 degrees and bake for 35 minutes. Turn off the oven and leave
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the platter inside, allowing it to cool to room temperature before removing. After baking, the platter will be dishwasher and microwavable safe!
4
Place a few of your host’s favorite cheeses on the platter and label them. Now they have a tray they can reuse for future events and an appetizer to curb the appetites of other guests before the main course is served!
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Mind. Body. Soul.
Good Samaritan Hospice
Navigating holiday celebrations during bereavement
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The holidays are an exciting time for many of us. However, if you are living with the grief of losing a loved one, it can be very difficult to actively participate in the festivities. Good Samaritan Hospice provides many programs to help people experiencing loss year round. Their upcoming program, Hope and Hot Chocolate, emphasizes ways to identify and meet your own emotional needs while enjoying the meaning and spirit of the holiday season. Participants will work with grief/loss professionals and discuss topics like “normal” grief, strategies for balancing their needs with the demands of others, and ways to honor loved ones during the holidays. It is important to remember that you are not alone. These programs will remind you that you have permission to avoid mailing holiday cards to everyone this year. You have every right to miss events or leave early. In fact, contrary to what you may be told by friends and family, taking time to understand and experience your grief may be better for you in the long run. Everett Collins has participated in several of the programs offered by Good Samaritan Hospice since his wife passed away. Information they provide, like the Mourner’s Bill of Rights, has been imperative to helping him understand his grief— and it has helped him obtain the support he needs from those closest to him. “I made a copy of the Mourner’s Bill of Rights for my friends and family. People think you should be like you were before and when you aren’t, it makes you feel crazy,” he explains. “This information helps them understand what you are going through.” He adds that the purpose of these meetings is not to give people closure. It is to give them a better understanding of why they feel the way that they do. Hope and Hot Chocolate programs will take place on Monday, November 17 at 1 p.m. and Monday, December 1 at 6 p.m. at the Good Samaritan Hospice Office. The program is free, but pre-registration is required because seating is limited. There are many additional groups, organized by Good Samaritan Hospice, that meet year-round to offer a safe and compassionate environment in which bereaved adults can talk to others dealing with loss and work towards a better understanding of their grief. For more information and to register, please contact Sandra Phillips at 540-776-0198, or visit www.goodsamhospice.org.
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Written by
Crystal Cascarino
Autism Tips for Parents Support & early intervention helps children with autism For parents, learning a child has autism can be a crushing blow, but early diagnosis, intervention and a strong support system makes all the difference. Across the United States, autism cases have skyrocketed with a 30 percent bump in the last two years, according to statistics. Autism affects one in 68 children, according to the Centers for Disease Control. More than two million people in the U.S., along with tens of millions worldwide, have autism. Although autism ranges in severity, the complex disorder affects brain development, typically characterized by difficult social interaction, weakened verbal and non-verbal communication and repetitive behaviors. Autism is also associated with poor motor control and attention, intellectual disability and health issues, including sleep and gastrointestinal disturbances. With autism on the rise, experts lean on early diagnostic tools to identify children with autism and help families locate resources for helpful intervention. Getting the diagnosis early will help children receive needed services. If children receive the appropriate services, there is a greater likelihood for them to excel in school, get a job and become self-sufficient, independent adults. According to statistics, half of children diagnosed with autism have typical intelligence levels, often lack social skills and require a variety of services. The sooner a child is diagnosed, the
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Article courtesy of
Mind. Body. Soul.
greater chance for long-term success. In severe cases, children often show signs of autism by six months of age. Milder symptoms typically present themselves later. Autism treatment requires a lifetime focus that equips families and children to handle challenges. If a child is diagnosed on the wide autism spectrum, doctors can refer families to a host of services, including speech and occupational therapy, autism specialty schools and in-home services. The symptoms of children with autism often improve with applied behavior analysis, the gold standard in autism treatment, and speech and occupational therapy. The majority of children with autism are on the mild or moderate end of the spectrum. Most children can go on to live a functional life.
Here are some tips for parents to consider: • Find an autism support group nearby. Do not try to go it alone. Lean on the support of others. To find a support group, visit autismva. org/supportgroups. • Find strength in each other. The divorce rate for couples with a child with autism is high. Supporting and encouraging each other will help parents and children. • Trust your instincts. If you suspect your child is not meeting certain milestones, talk with your doctor. The earlier treatment is started, the better. • Be your child’s advocate. Become actively engaged in your child’s education and ask questions. Celebrate progress, no matter how small. • Play to your child’s strengths. Get on the floor or go outside and play with your children. Build up your children socially by talking with them often and asking questions.
Crystal Cascarino, MS, BCBA, LBA, is the coordinator of Autism Services for Centra Rivermont Schools. Centra offers a wide range of autism services, including Rivermont Schools, in-home services and early diagnostic tools. To learn more about autism services and treatment options, visit CentraAutism.com or KidsGetBetter.com.
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Mind. Body. Soul.
Written by
a
As probably one of the most practical females among my friends, there is NO way on earth I would compromise how I felt just to look good. I’m just too practical for that. Although I know there are several other practical people out there, I also know many more that would live with agonizing pain in order to look good. I have a friend from high school who is a stylist in New York City. She posted a video blog about wearing heels at a wedding pain-free. I’ve got to admit, I was intrigued. So I opened up her video and literally laughed out loud—“open up this bottle of Advil. Take two or three and put on your heels. You won’t feel a thing!” Obviously, not a great solution. If the consequence of looking hot in heels was not significant, perhaps I would sit idly by as the practical chiropractor and zip it. But, I see the consequence daily. When you wear high heels, it causes your pelvis to tilt forward and increases the low back curvature. This ultimately alters your center of gravity and increases your risk of injury to your back. I do realize the calf muscles look great in a heel, but, figuratively speaking, they are screaming at you! In a high heel, the calf muscles are shortened and tightened—which can cause other issues in your feet, knees and/or hips. If you like to end your day with a quick run or other workout,
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Dr. Jennifer Walker
this can put additional stress on your body when you switch from a heel into a running shoe. This could make you vulnerable to shin splints, knee pain, Achilles tendonitis, plantar fasciitis or any other lower extremity ache you can think of. It can be a very messy situation! I get the importance of looking fashionable—really, I do. Just think about your body a tiny bit when you put your outfit together each day. If you must wear heels, consider stretching the muscles in your back, hips and legs to keep injuries at bay. Try to wear more supportive, comfortable shoes when you know you will be standing or walking for long periods of time. Simply be aware of the little (and big) stresses you are placing on your body with even the simplest of things, such as shoes.
Article courtesy of
Dr. Jennifer Walker is owner of Balance Wellspace, a three story wellness resource center in South Roanoke. You can reach her for more information at Balance Wellspace, 540-343-0055 or visit www.balanceroanoke.com.
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Bella Girls at
Mind. Body. Soul.
The final chapter of an amazing journey!
b
Bella girls Stacey, Hayleigh, and Cory have seen wonderful results since their three month journey with Pure Barre began. The workout routine proved to be perfect for each of them—despite their vastly different schedules, goals and personalities. Each of them experienced results far beyond what they expected. “When I started Pure Barre, I was determined that I would stick with it,” says Hayleigh, “By signing up for three months at a time, you make an investment in your body. Improving my health was a team effort. Through the encouragement of Pure Barre instructors, classmates, family and friends, I continued to push myself past the point at which I usually give up. The results were life changing. Small sacrifices and a little patience rejuvenated my self confidence—the weight loss was just an added bonus. I have gone from a dress size 8 to a size 2. I am stronger—mentally and physically—and I am so grateful for all the motivation that came from attending each class.” Stacey agrees that support from classmates and instructors was an integral part of their success, “Commitment to anything for three months can be tough, but when you have a friend who is by your side it makes the experience better. You are there for each other. Accountability is what kept me going. Not only was I doing this for myself, I was also there for my workout partner.” “The instructors challenge and motivate you throughout class by saying things like, ‘You can do anything for 30 seconds’ or ‘this is your last change; remember why you are here.’ They are there to help you if you are struggling because they want you to get the full effect
before & after photos: Cory lost one inch from her waist and one inch from her seat.
of the exercises and avoid injury. Additionally, they watch for when you are doing things right and praise you for good form—this made me push myself harder and give it everything I had. Using my breath and moving my body in ways I have never done was very empowering. I have awoken my core and muscles that I didn’t even know I had. Get yourself to the Barre—I promise you will see results!” All three women have seen a significant increase in their strength. “Apparently I am stronger than I think, a constant motivational phrase used in class,” explains Cory, “but also stronger in general. My arms are toner, my core is tighter, and my confidence in myself and ability has grown. But aside from that, the family that I have found in the instructors and other students has been overwhelming. There is a joyous camaraderie that motivates each of us through the sessions. My goal from the beginning was to tone—mission accomplished!” What are you waiting for? Visit www. purebarre.com to sign up for your first class today! Hayleigh lost three inches from her chest, four inches from her waist, and two inches from her seat.
Stacey lost: 1/2 inch lost on arm. 2 inches lost in chest. 1.5 inches lost on hips.
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Written by
Tales From Stacey Rae
Stacey Brugh
The Flood of ’85
November is the month we give thanks. It was also the month, 29 years ago, that my town witnessed horrible destruction by the mighty James River during the Flood of 1985. Without much warning or time, the water rose so rapidly that it broke the flood gauge. It is a year Buchanan residents will never forget. My town was submerged under water. I saw houses and businesses, ripped from their foundation, floating down the river. As my family sat in our living room together, our eyes were glued to the news for updates on weather conditions and interviews of the people affected who didn’t have insurance and were left with only the clothes on their bodies. I remember seeing people standing on rooftops waiting to be rescued. Rescue teams wading through fast moving, muddy water to reach people and boats floating to homes to get people to safety. I was nine years old and attending Buchanan Elementary School when this happened. The faculty gathered all students in the library. We tried to understand what was happening while they did their best to map out the safest routes to get us home. My mom worked on Lowe Street, which was right by the river. She went to work with the river muddy and flowing fast. By mid-morning the river was in their parking lot. After the river crested, it was in her building. She came and picked me up from school and I knew something was wrong. As we made our way down Route 11, I looked out the window and saw a once small creek, now more like a river, with a horse swimming to safety. Even today when I pass this certain spot, I can see that same image. Photo courtesy of Every creek we passed on our way home was out of its banks and overflowing in fields. The Fincastle Herald When dad got home, he took us back out to see the damage. The James River follows Route 11 and we could see its force, power, and speed alongside us as we drove closer to Buchanan. The road was blocked and the river met us at Jack’s IGA, on the outskirts of town. My heart was broken for all of the families whose homes, belongings and memories were washed away. I knew the carnival grounds were under water. However, this is when my town became more than a town. We became a family. Vickie Vines, a former teacher at Buchanan Elementary, says, “I was sent down to the river the night they realized how bad it was getting to warn people to stay away from the river bank because there was a propane tank floating. For a day or so you couldn’t get into town from either direction. It was a strange sight from interstate looking into town. I went to the firehouse to help feed those whose homes were under water. A lot of food was donated to help feed them. After the river slowly went back to its banks, lots of kids (including mine) went to houses on Lowe Street to help with cleanup efforts.” While writing this story, I listened to a 30 minute documentary about the cities, towns, people, and businesses affected by this flood over and over for hours. When it came to aerial images of Buchanan and interviews of those it affected, I have to admit, it brought tears to my eyes yet happiness in my heart. Although the river had taken everything they owned and worked for away, they would not leave. It was the only home they had known. They were not mad at the river, but Stacey Brugh lives in Roanoke, but grew up in thankful that they were standing to tell their story. “Brughville” in Buchanan. She says, “My parents One day we were neighbors, the next day we were family. You taught me to live each day to the fullest and we stayed, rebuilt and helped each other. Just like families do. I am thankful do! My days are always filled with fun stuff!” She claims to be just a “small town girl with a big to say I was raised in such a wonderful place.
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smile.” And big dreams! Read about her life—past and present—here each month. For more of this story, visit www.lovelybella.com.
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november 2014
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e d i u G ft i G y a d i l Ho Unique gifts for every taste & budget Confused about what to get a friend or family member that “has everything� this year? You are not alone. Check out our list of unique holiday gifts from local businesses, as well as a few great online sites, that will show you put some thought behind your purchases! Photography: The Definitive Visual History by Tom Ang. The perfect gift for your dinner party host or the photography lover in your life, this book is also a great conversation starter.
The Rebecca Minkoff mini M.A.C. in red is an amazing holiday accessory that women of all ages will love. Available at Yarids.
Tote bag from Out of Print clothing. The perfect gift for the book lover in your life, they come in a variety of styles. You can also choose from an array of additional accessories. www.outofprintclothing.com
Wonderbag is a revolutionary slow cooker that requires no electricity. Buy one for you and another will be sent to a family in Africa. www.nb-wonderbag.com
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november 2014
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Holiday Gift Guide
Cozy Nepali Free People Socks are perfect for the teen or eclectic fashion lover in your life. Available in a variety of colors and designs at La De Da.
The Moleskine Limited Edition Series Notebooks. This is a great gift for your high school or college student to encourage note taking in style. www.moleskine.com
The leopard print Dansko offers the same comfort that we all have come to expect from the popular brand and will add a little flare to your recipient’s outfit. Available at Bush Flora.
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A subscription to Try the World will allow the recipient to try delicious and authentic food from various countries— perfect for the food lover in your life! www.trytheworld.com
A mink phone plug will set an iPhone apart from the rest—a fantastic stocking stuffer for your favorite fashionista. Available in a variety of colors at Henri Kessler.
The UGG Dakota Moccasin is a fantastic gift for the approaching cold winter months. Available at 310 Rosemont, Yarids, and Bush Flora. w w w. l o v e l y b e l l a . c o m
november 2014
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bella magazine
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page 29
Holiday Gift Guide
Water-resistant Orchard Mirror watch from RumbaTime. A perfect fashion accessory for the mother or daughter in your life that has everything. www.rumbatime.com Archipelago Candles are fantastic gifts for hosts, friends, and family members alike. Available in several scents at Magnolia.
Purchase a subscription to Dollar Shave Club for the special guy in your life. For one low monthly fee you receive a new blade each month. www.dollarshaveclub.com
This grey scarf is a beautiful addition to someone special’s winter ensemble. This may be a gift you want to get for yourself! Available in several styles and colors at Vivendi. page 30 | bella magazine | november 2014
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