Nov/Dec 2017
10
Great Gifts
you haven’t thought of
The Jacksons are a family made with love.
The Christmas true Gift Astory
A better body
-prostate relief -breast cancer care -dental fears and more!
What everyone really wants for
Quick & easy
Holiday Appetizers
Christmas
Take this magazine with you. When you’re done, give it away.
What is Coordinated Breast Care?
In a single visit a breast cancer patient is consulted and treated by...
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Breast SURGEON Breast ONCOLOGIST
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Support SERVICES
2
Plastic SURGEON
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Coordinated Breast Care is Now Available in Siouxland Midlands Clinic and the June E. Nylen Cancer Center have closed the gap in breast cancer treatment. Our collaborative team of highly trained physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals work together to provide a coordinated approach for the treatment of breast cancer patients. This approach includes efficient patient navigation, advanced surgical techniques, state-of-the-art oncology, and a wide array of support services.
The board includes breast surgeons, a plastic surgeon, medical oncologists, a radiation oncologist, and radiologists. Siouxland’s cancer experts at June E. Nylen Cancer Center are proudly partnered with Midlands Clinic in this effort to give Siouxland breast cancer patients the best possible care and service.
Each patient’s information will be reviewed by our multidisciplinary board to ensure they are receiving a comprehensive treatment plan. Lawrence Volz, MD, FACS
Laura McNaughton, MD Craig Nemechek, MD, FACS
If you or your loved one have been recently diagnosed with breast cancer, contact our Breast Care Coordinator, Barb Hansen, RN to learn more about Coordinated Breast Care at 605.217.5570, or visit midlandsclinic.com.
One Team. One Focus. You. Greg Naden, MD
Santiago Moscoso, MD
Susan Roeder, MD
Table of
CONTENTS BEING BETTER / Nov/Dec 2017
BETTER HOME
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15 . Christmas
What everyone really wants.
20 . The Christmas Gift A story to read this holiday.
23 . Much more than a car
Why your car is an extension of you.
24 . We like to move it
Stop losing your home’s heat.
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25 . 10 Great Gifts
10 great gifts you haven’t thought of.
28 . Staying warm
How to keep your furnace running.
28 . What’s holding you back Getting in the mindset to move.
BETTER BODY 29 . Yoga
Not as crazy as you may think.
31 . Nothing to fear
Advent calendar by PastelStone/Shutterstock.com
Dentists know why you don’t come.
BETTER NOW
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32 . Brain benders
Keep your noggin primed.
33 . What you want to hear Better breast cancer protocol.
7 . Better conversations
12 . Top 5
34 . Avoiding the flu?
Natural ways to fight a sore throat.
3 ways to help yourself and others.
9 . Better stuff
13 . My best advice
34 . What a pain!
Learn to say what needs to be said.
Stuff to make you smile.
10 . Tips n’ Trends
What people are talking about now.
Three experts weigh in.
When the ouch doesn’t end.
35 . Relief is in sight
For men with prostate issues. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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On the cover
BETTER FOOD
47 . Holiday appetizers
Quick and delicious party recipes.
50 . Baking up some tradition Gingerbread cookies to make.
51 . Sip some holiday cheer Eggnog varieties to try.
51 . Dealing with excess
When there’s too many bananas.
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Editor-in-Chief
JENNIFER WINQUIST jennifer@beingbettermagazine.com
Copy editors
MIKARA BONHAM BARB MICKELSON
Photography
MARK KARRER
SALES Account Executive
37 . What it takes to be a M.O.M.
JESSIQUE STEELE jess@beingbettermagazine.com
How to be a manager of money.
To contact us for any reason: Being Better Magazine P.O. Box 5105 Sioux City, IA 51102 . 712-301-4341 www.BeingBetterMagazine.com Email@BeingBetterMagazine.com
39 . Avoiding the ridiculous Avoiding workplace problems.
40. The boy with half a heart Camp High Hopes is all heart.
©2017 Being Better magazine. Please ask publisher’s permission before using content for other public purposes.
43 . A family made with love
The Jacksons and the joys of adoption.
SUBSCRIPTIONS/ACCESS
52 . Food focus It’s turkey time!
53 . Set a festive table
Set a special table for a special time.
FREE PRINT ISSUE Being Better [in Siouxland] is available free to the general public in the Siouxland area. For a list of locations you may find it, go to our website at www.BeingBetterMagazine.com FREE DIGITAL ISSUE You may also view a digital version of the current or past issues online by going to our website. MAILED ISSUE If you’d like to receive magazines by mail, send $19.99 [check, MC/Visa, or money order] for six issues. Include your name, address, and phone number to the address above.
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Table setting by AnjelikaGr/Shutterstock.com; Bear by /Shutterstock.com; Eggnog by etorres /Shutterstock.com; Ornaments by Billion Photos/Shutterstock.com
BETTER LIFE
Publisher
BEING BETTER MAGAZINE, LLC. Sioux City, IA
LETTER / From the editor
Happy, Happy Holidays!
T
he holidays are here! If you aren’t super excited then you definitely need to read this issue. I have a theory that people who don’t like Christmas have been doing it wrong. Focusing on the wrong stuff. That’s pretty easy to do in America and it can scoop up all the holiday goodness and replace it with busyness and excess. Let’s not do that. We’re going for a Christmas that everybody gets what they really want - and it doesn’t come wrapped in a package. We’ve got all the goodies too. Whether you want to make some traditional seasonal favorites like gingerbread cookies and eggnog, or try something festive like Thai chicken satay, we’ve got you covered. Need some unique gift ideas - no problem. We have some ideas that maybe you haven’t thought of. Once again, we have had the joy of meeting so many interesting people that are right here in Siouxland. People who are doing things to help others. They’ve figured out one big secret: when you do something for someone else, you get blessed in the process. Check out the stories on Camp High Hopes and our cover story family, the Jacksons, who have found out how amazing adoption is. As always we’ve got some great health insights. Can I just say we have some pretty great docs in our midsts here in Siouxland! Not to mention so many other professionals that are weighing in to give us such great tips this issue on everything from prostate problems to how to keep the heat from escaping our home, what cars to consider and how to market your business. We’ve also included a Christmas story...THE Christmas story that we hope you’ll enjoy reading alone or aloud with your family. We pray this holiday season that you experience a wonderful, joyful, peaceful Christmas like never before!
Christmas blessings,
Jennifer Winquist, Editor-in-Chief jennifer@BeingBetterMagazine.com
This is me, my brother, and little sisters celebrating Christmas at my grandma’s house in 1971. Notice the lovely metal tree? For those who are too young to have experienced this fad I’ll explain. Instead of putting lights on the tree you positioned a light next to it that had a revolving color wheel. The tree reflected the everchanging colors. And, yes, we are rockin’ some festive holiday garb! Gotta love those knee socks! Just think, no matter how great you think you look in your holiday duds this year, in a few decades others will question your fashion choices. So, wear what you want and be merry! Merry Christmas!
ATTENTION! Guys only!
If you need a great gift for your girl friend, wife, sister, or mom, I have an idea that she will love, love, love! Get her a Bagnet. It might not make any sense to you, but this is a huge girl thing. When we go into a public restroom and there’s no hook for our purse we freak. You’d laugh if you could see us in there trying to balance our purse on our lap or hanging it around our neck. But, the idea of putting our purse on the floor grosses us out! The Bagnet is a really strong magnet that holds your purse on a metal surface - like the door frame of a bathroom, stall wall, or back of a chair. It totally works great! She won’t believe you thought of this. It’ll be our little secret. They’re like $25 at www.bagnetcompany.com. You’re welcome!
And this is the way to have eternal life - to know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, the one you sent to earth. -Jesus [John 17:3] www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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WITH JENNIFER WINQUIST
The family’s coming for the holidays and there’s that one person that you are dreading.
Now
How to say the things you’ve always wanted to say...or need to say.
BETTER
Your annual review is coming up and you want to talk to your boss about that promotion. Do you know how to have those [and a whole bunch of other] crucial conversations? Without being terrified, selfrighteous, or angry? The authors of Crucial Conversations, tools for talking when stakes are high, have decades of experience with high-pressured discussions and they’ve researched the topic exhaustively. The insight they present makes sense! It’s something you will find yourself going, “Oh, that’s me! (Both excitedly and disappointingly.) It really helps give you perspective, get you in the right thinking, and gets you past fears that hold you back or that cause you to jump into anger mode. Using the info can really make a huge difference. Even with the most important conversations of all the ones with your spouse, parents, or kids.
Available as a book or audio CDs. It not only helps you learn to communicate effectively, but also how to truly listen.
If you have trouble communicating in a healthy or productive way, give yourself this gift and start the New Year with the ability to have life-changing conversations. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Now
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
BETTER Stuff Funny stuff
Have you ever lost your mind during a job interview? Here are a few actual experiences “I was so nervous, when he asked me where I wanted to be in five years, I said, ‘A race car driver.’” “The guy asked me to tell him a little about myself. I couldn’t think of a thing. I literally forgot who I was.” “I got asked about punctuality. I went on about how it was good to speak clearly and politely, and it was nice to use proper grammar in speech and writing.”
Quotable stuff “Our thoughts, not our circumstances determine our happiness.” ─ John Maxwell “A heart at peace gives life to the body, but envy rots the bones.” ─ Proverbs 14:30 (NIV) “You can either practice being right or practice being kind.” ─ Anne Lamott
BETTER / Now
Monkey stuff
Who doesn’t think monkeys are the cutest thing? (Except for sock monkeys...those are creepy). Fingerlings are Interactive Baby Monkeys. They love to grab onto things. They respond to sound, motion, and touch with blinking eyes, head turns, and silly monkey babble. Blow them kisses and they will kiss you back! Hang them upsidedown by the tail and watch them monkey around! Pet them to sleep or make a loud noise and watch them get excited! Available on Amazon, $35.
Choppy stuff You’ll wonder how you ever survived making dinner without these two products. The Mix ‘N Chop easily breaks apart ground meats as you’re browning them, plus it won’t scratch your pan. $13 The Food Chopper makes quick work of chopping veggies and nuts in seconds. The more you press the plunger, the finer the chop. $34 www.pamperedchef.com
Caroling stuff
Warrior by Veda Wildfire/Shutterstock.com
If you love holiday music, here are three new CDs hitting the shelves this Christmas. All are a mix of beloved carols, timeless hymns, pop holiday tunes, and a little soul. Blake Shelton, Gwen Stefani, and Frank Sinatra have new ones out too.
Heavenly stuff A quick Amazon search for angel figurines and it’s apparent that we believe them to be sweet, kind women - or children - with wings. According to the Bible angels are servants of God. Whenever these servants of God are mentioned it is never suggested that they are women, nor that they necessarily have wings (that would be seraphim and cherubim). Only Michael the Archangel and Gabriel are mentioned by name. Angels give messages to God’s chosen people (Luke 1:26-38), protect them (Psalm 91:11-12), and battle evil (Rev. 12: 7-9). If that’s the case, this photo may be a closer idea of what real angels look like.
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Now
Tips & Trends Create your own spa-space
Snack well and enjoy
What’s trending in bathroom updates? According to HGTV you’ll want to make the space feel spa-like. It’s not just about getting the job done in there - we want to feel relaxed.
Sometimes we’re smart. More and more people are ditching the processed snacks. The trend is to make healthier options, not just for the kids but for ourselves. These energy bites have all-natural ingredients and more than 3 grams of protein per serving. Since they are no-bake you can whip them up in no time. Enjoy and feel good!
Three areas to improve toward a spa experience
No-bake energy bites
Combine 1 cup old-fashioned oats, 1/2 cup peanut butter, 1/2 cup ground flax seed, 1/2 cup chocolate chips, 1/3 cup honey, 1 T chia seeds (optional), and 1 t vanilla extract. Cover and refrigerate dough for 30 minutes. Form into balls about 1" in diameter. Makes about 20. Customize your energy bites. Replace the chia seed with dried cranberries or dates. Try dark chocolate chips or white chocolate. For a finishing touch roll balls in coconut or crushed nuts.
Welcome your guests Do you have family and friends coming to visit for the holidays? If you’ll be hosting overnight guests, welcome them with a Guest Caddy. Fill a basket, holiday tin, or other appropriate container with everything they might need during their stay.
Go beyond the typical
Make it a gift by adding handmade soaps, a favorite lotion, or an out of the ordinary item like a razor sharpening block or Toockies organic cotton scrub cloths. Check out www.thegrommet.com for more interesting ideas for your caddy.
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Bathroom girl By JL-Pfeifer/Shutterstock.com; Energy bites By vm2002/Shutterstock.com; Coconut bites By HealthyLauraCom /Shutterstock.com; Bathroom caddy By Homyachok_V/Shutterstock.com;
1. Bowl sinks and under-mount sinks are in. 2. Update the faucet to one that gives more height which allows for a more functional space. 3. Wall-mount lights are a must. They add warmth, reduce shadows, and are less harsh than overhead lighting.
BETTER / Now
Consider this payback for what time steals
Blonde girl By Olena Yakobchuk/Shutterstock.com; Doberman By BlackbourneA/Shutterstock.com; Holiday room By OlgaPonomarenko/Shutterstock.com;
Time, heat, changes in our body, the environment, what we eat, and a host of other issues leave us changed, and not for the better. Sarah Gentrup tells us about a product, Rejuvenique™, she uses to restore what is lost and to prevent further loss. The best part? This one product can be used 101 ways. Let’s check out a few.
DEFEND: Apply a few drops to damp hair to detangle, de-frizz, protect from blow drying, and give a superb shine.
Body
CORRECT: Apply to soften stretch marks and restore skin elasticity. Deeply moisturize dry, rough areas like elbows, knees, heels, and nail cuticles. RELEIVE: Moisturize areas of dry, itchy, scaly skin. Relieve itch from hives and insect bites. PROTECT: Apply to tattoos to keep skin hydrated and keep color from fading. Apply to ears before going out into the cold to protect from wind burn.
Face
“Because Rejuvenique™ is a light, non-greasy combination of rare oils that mimics the body’s own oils, it absorbs more deeply and moisturizes more effectively.” HYDRATE: Get extra hydration by blending a few drops into your moisurizer before applying. TAME: Smooth and tame eyebrows, rubbing one drop between your index fingers and applying on each. MOISTURIZE: Apply to lips daily in place of lip balms.
Hair
“Rejuvenique™ helps reduce frizz, correct split ends, and restore unprecedented shine and manageability.” DEEP TREATMENT: Apply all over scalp and hair and leave on for 5 min. Rinse. EXTEND COLOR: For longerlasting, brighter hair color, add a few drops to color formula. Country Cuts Hubbard, NE 712-490-5573 mymonat.com/sgentrup
Don’t miss events
Holiday Tour of Homes
benefiting Big Brothers Big Sisters of Siouxland
This year’s Holiday Tour of Homes will be held November 16-18. Departure will start at Central Baptist Church, 4001 Indian Hills, Sioux City. You’ll explore five beautiful homes in Sioux City. Before your tour, enjoy the refreshments, and browse the silent auction items. Tickets start at $30. Get them before they’re gone! For more information go to www.bigbrothersbigsisters.com.
Odd Stuff
PETS: Soften and protect your puppy’s nose and paws. REVIVE: Add a drop to thickened nail polish to revive it. Works the same on dried-up mascara. UH-OHH: Get gum out of hair without breakage. Sarah says, “I use this all day long - for myself and on my salon clients. It makes your skin and hair look and feel so much better after using it just a few times. It really does work wonders.” Rejuvenique™ Oil $99. Ask Sarah how you can get free shipping.
Tonic Sol-Fa Christmas
Back by popular demand is Tonic Sol-fa for their 2017 Christmas season tour! Tonic Sol-fa’s original songs, arrangements, and albums have won numerous contemporary a cappella awards for best pop album, gospel song, and Christmas originals. The New York Times described Tonic Solfa’s sound as “A vocal kaleidoscope… unique to the human voice.” See them at the Sioux City Orpheum Theatre on Sunday, December 17th at 7:30 pm.
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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Top 5
BETTER / Now
1 3
2
natural ways
to fight a sore throat
Echinacea is one plant that contains a host of therapeutic compounds that are beneficial for overall health and wellness. Native Americans used echinacea as a general cure all. Some docs suggest making an echinacea tea to enjoy every day once the cold and flu season starts.
Apple cider vinegar
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
is often used in combination with other natural ingredients to soothe a sore throat. Not only does it help to fight infection and provide pain relief, honey makes just about everything taste better! It’s not recommended to give honey to kids under a year old.
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Sage
has been used to treat many inflammatory conditions, and studies suggest it can help relieve throat pain.
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Cinnamon
is high in antioxidants and provides antibacterial benefits. It’s a traditional remedy for colds and flus and is used in Chinese medicine to reduce sore throat pain.
Remedy your sore throat
with a tea made from any or all of these natural ingredients. Pour hot water over a tea infuser (or cheese cloth) filled with the herbs/spices. Steep for two minutes. Stir in 1 T apple cider vinegar and/or 1-2 t of honey. Sip and feel better.
Sage tea By Jiri Hera/Shutterstock.com;
has antibacterial properties and may help provide sore throat relief when consumed even in small amounts with warm water. The ancient Greek physician Hippocrates, known as the father of medicine, prescribed a combination of apple cider vinegar and honey to treat flu symptoms such as coughs and sore throats.
Honey
My best advice right now
BETTER / Now
experts in their field weigh in
WILL BASS
PRESIDENT BASS ADVERTISING
MY BEST ADVICE:
“Market your business”
Marketing can be a complex process and it can be difficult to stay on track, but follow these basic principles to help you think it through. Branding is emotional “Each campaign should build on your brand. The way you make your customers feel is your brand.” What you say (and how) matters “Don’t blame a specific media for a failed ad campaign. Time and again we hear, “We tried (insert medium: radio, social, print, etc.) advertising and it doesn’t work.” This is simply not true. A mechanic knows each tool has a specific job. What you are offering or how you are saying it may be the problem. Remember, it’s about them When you create an ad for any medium, first, get their attention. You don’t have to be super “edgy,” but develop a headline that solves a problem the viewer may have or doesn’t yet realize they have. The customer doesn’t really care about your company. They only care what you can do for them - to save them money or to satisfy their appetite for food, entertainment, or happiness. Focus on the benefit for the customer. Bass Advertising 815 Nebraska St., Sioux City, IA 712-277-3450 . www.bassadvertising.com Email: advertising@bassadvertising.com
A.J. REYNOLDS
PRESIDENT ABC BOOKKEEPING &TAX SERVICES
MY BEST ADVICE:
DALE MEYER
CO-OWNER MEYER BROTHERS FUNERAL HOMES
MY BEST ADVICE:
“Keep some, pitch some”
“The length of time you should keep a document depends on the action, expense, or event which the document records. Generally, you must keep your records that support an item of income, deduction, or credit shown on your tax return until the period of limitations for that tax return runs out. Income tax returns Keep records for 3 years ∙from the date you filed your original return or 2 years from the date you paid the tax, whichever is later, if you file a claim for credit or refund after you file a return. ∙if the situations below don’t apply to you. Keep records for 6 years ∙if you do not report income that you should report, and it is more than 25% of the gross income shown on your return. Keep records for 7 years ∙if you file a claim for a loss from worthless securities or bad debt deduction. Keep records indefinitely - ∙if you do not file a return. ∙if you file a fraudulent return.”
“Have a conversation”
Click the Resources tab on my website for more details on this subject.
“An 85-year-old man died and his family came in to make funeral arrangements. I asked what the husband’s funeral and burial wishes were. The wife said, ‘I’m not sure. We never talked about it.’ “Discussing funeral plans is inevitable and it’s better to talk it through when things are good than during the emotional strain of a death. Even more so if you don’t know how it will be paid for. When the kids and parents are home for the holidays, it might be a good time to talk together.” Get the conversation started “Ask if they want a casket burial or cremation. Where will they be buried? Is there life insurance to cover costs or a prepaid funeral plan? Ask about their life so you can give meaningful information for their obituary.” The upside “Kids may have a hard time talking about their parents funerals, but once people do it they say what peace of mind they have. It’s been said that your funeral is the third largest expense in your life. Planning ahead can relieve a lot of stress for everyone when the inevitable happens.”
ABC Bookkeeping & Tax Services 507 7th Street, Suite 230, Sioux City, IA 712-255-7617 . www.abctaxea.com
Meyer Brothers Funeral Homes can help with a variety of preplanning funeral options. (712) 255-0131 . Email: mbfh@cableone.net
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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Baby has arrived BETTER / Now
Can you donate some baby items this holiday season to make sure his holiday is warm and cozy? Many of our clients who have recently had a baby or are expecting one don’t have all that they’ll need to take care of their baby well. As part of our program, we have
Ginny's Little Feet Boutique
Through generous donations we typically have new and gently used baby clothes on hand (0 - 24 months). Our biggest need is cribs since they must be new (per government guidelines). Check the list on the right for more ideas on how you can give to these precious families this season.
Our clients earn points to spend at the boutique that is filled with baby care items. They earn points by taking our parenting classes, engaging in positive activities like going to work and church, and completing DVD trainings and homework.
Needs this season ∙ New (in package) cribs and mattresses (or cash donations toward the purchase) ∙ Disposable diapers (preemie to size 5) ∙ Wipes ∙ $10 or $25 Walmart gifts cards (to be given to our clients at Christmastime) For those clients who are the most needy, we encourage families, groups, and businesses to contact us to help provide some needed Christmas cheer. Contact us today or bring in your items to donate.
Christmas blessings!
By gallantpeter/Shutterstock.com
5732 Sunnybrook Drive, Sioux City, IA www.herhealthwomenscenter.org
712.276.0237
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Home
BETTER What everyone really wants for
Christmas Let’s take a step back and understand what everyone truly wants for Christmas.
By Suzanne Tucker/Shutterstock.com
It may not be what you think.
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Home
What everyone really wants for Christmas
W
e recently asked several people in different phases of life for their thoughts on Christmas. Interestingly, pretty much all of them had the same takeaways. Surprising? Maybe not. Perhaps, deep down, we really all want the same things for Christmas.
What we can’t remember
Before the holidays get into full swing, talk with your family about what’s important to them and what would make Christmas special. Talk through expectations where gifts are concerned. It’s good for adults to share concerns about budgets, time constraints, and especially how to deal with stressful family relations. Having a plan can pave the way to having a joyful season.
Takeaway: Stop making gift giving the focus. All too often we get so stressed out about buying gifts, how much money we’re spending, and what to get someone. In the long-run they won’t even remember.
What we want
Tradition. Most everyone we asked had those couple of activities that they always looked forward to each year. Things that made it special in some way. Activities differ in what they most enjoy. Fifty-something Barb loves decorating the tree while listening to Christmas music. For Trisha, in her 40s, baking favorite cookies is a must, and husband Jayson agrees even though he admits he doesn’t really help all that much. Jayson stresses, “It’s just tradition and it would seem strange if we didn’t do it.” John, in his 50s, always enjoyed going to his grandparents house. “The big thing was that everyone brought their homemade cookies and put them on this huge tray that was probably three feet across. It was always the highlight to see that thing full.” For those you do want to remember with a gift, you can incorporate tradition and save some money too. Making gifts can be very rewarding and people love them. Find ideas on Pinterest and have kids, family, or friends help make them. Kids can easily help make teacher gifts like this upcycled can with a succulent plant.
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Family By Lucky Business/Shutterstock.com; Socks By JLwarehouse/Shutterstock.com; Plant tin By Qualivity/Shutterstock.com;
Gifts. Very few people could even remember one gift they ever got for Christmas. Verla, who is 84, remembered one Christmas when she was very young. She ended up getting two dolls. It stood out to her because both her parents and her teacher got her the exact same one. Ninety-seven-year-old Melvin remembered that gifts were not a given and if you did get one it was going to be something you needed like shoes or mittens. Yet, Caitlin, who is 21, couldn’t think of any particular gift.
BETTER / Home Traditions should be things you truly look forward to. If something feels like a hassle, figure out how to modify it, eliminate it, or replace it. Things don’t have to be expensive either. Decorate your tree together, go view the Christmas lights around town, read favorite Christmas stories with your kids, and bake cookies.
Takeaway: Honor tradition. What do you need to do to make it feel like Christmas to you? Find out what things your family finds meaningful. Perhaps you can nix a few other things and maybe you need to add some if nothing stands out. Do things that bring you joy and that you truly look forward to.
Advent calendar By PastelStone/Shutterstock.com; Cooking making By Zoom Team/Shutterstock.com; Tree couple By Lucky Business/Shutterstock.com;
Family. No matter what traditions people like, they all seemed to revolve around family. Barb would decorate the tree alone if no one else wanted to help, but her happiest time is when others join in. Chris, 40, said his biggest joy is watching his kids get excited about Christmas morning and watching
them delight in their gifts. Judy, 30, loves waking up to the sounds and smells of her mom making Christmas brunch. Pretty much everyone said Christmas can only be Christmas if you are with family or those close friends who are like your family. Takeaway: Be together. Plan time with the people who are most important to you. Make sure you have time to just be together. While you’re engaged in your traditions, remember it’s about more than the doing. Make an easy advent calendar like this one. Write a message inside each card. Maybe a Bible verse for each day. For kids tell the location of a treat, that it’s their turn to pick the book to read, or that they can skip a chore today. You could even do an outward focus with instructions on how to make someone’s day: Call Grandma, deliver cookies to the fire station, leave a surprise treat for a teacher, or put a special note in Dad’s lunch. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Home
What everyone really wants for Christmas Feeling. Maya Angelou once said, “I’ve learned that people will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” One thing people mentioned again and again was how things were special at Christmas. Chris, a father in his 30s, reflected on how his parents always made things special for him and his sister. “Even when they probably couldn’t afford it, they always made sure there were gifts under the tree. Looking back, I’m not sure how they did that.” Barb said, “The first Christmas my husband and I were married I went all out with decorations and made a nice dinner. He told me it was his best Christmas ever.”
Takeaway: Make things special. The effort will be appreciated. People want Christmas to be something special. Get the good dishes out. Have foods you only make on Christmas. Sacrifice your time and your talents to do something even just a little bit different. Some things are worth it.
What’s meaningful
Church. Almost every single person that replied to our survey said that church was a big deal for them on Christmas...a good memory. For Melvin, 97, it was the biggest part. “We would go to church no
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matter what. There were years that the roads would be so bad that we couldn’t drive so dad would hook up a team of horses on a bobsled to take us to church. They didn’t cancel church because of bad weather.” Dustin, 30s, said he’s always gone to church on Christmas Eve before going over to the family for celebrations. Chris said his best memories are of being with his family, singing O Holy Night during the candlelight service, at church...both growing up and now with his own children. Takeaway: Go to church. More people go to church on Christmas Eve than on any other day of the year. If you don’t have a church you go to, check out the ones on the next page. They would be happy to have you join them. It may be the most meaningful thing you do. If you’ve forgotten why you should
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
go, take a look at page 20. Jesus is the reason for the season for a good reason. This year, create a Christmas that everyone wants. That might mean making it less in some ways. Focus on making it a time of Joy, Peace, and Love and you’ll make it one to remember.
Faith is the biggest part of Christmas. Read the Bible story found in Luke 2: 1-20 and Matthew 2: 1-12. Let the kids set out the nativity figures as you read. Pray and thank God for this wonderful time. Go to church and remember what’s really important at Christmas.
Girl in window By FamVeld/Shutterstock.com; Poinsettia By Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com; Nativity By AGCreations/Shutterstock.com;
Christmas dinner is one of those special times everyone longs for and remembers. This is one time of year not to take the easy way out or cut corners. It isn’t about expensive foods or tableware. It’s just about making it stand out from the norm.
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Don’t miss Christmas
These area churches welcome you to join them...just as you are
White boards w/evergreen By dashtik/Shutterstock.com; Nativity By Jacky Brown/Shutterstock.com; White brick By vata/Shutterstock.com; Holly berries By 4clover/Shutterstock.com;
CHR
2300 W 19th Street Sioux City, IA . 712-252-0323
Please join us!
MAS
A Baby Closet Thanksgiving Sun, Nov 19th . 11 am to 12:30 pm
Traditional Thanksgiving dinner. RSVP on Facebook: TheSiouxCityBabyCloset
~
Candlelight Service Wed, Dec 20th . 6:30 pm ~
Christmas Eve Service
AT
Sun, Dec 24th 10:30 am
THE ORPHEUM SUNNYBROOK community church
9:00
AM
11:00
AM
1:00
PM
Which would your rather have?
HOPE vs. FEAR
JOY vs. ANXIETY PEACE vs. SHAME
LOVE vs. ANGER
JOIN US EACH SUNDAY IN DEC TO LEARN HOW TO GET WHAT JESUS IS GIVING THIS CHRISTMAS
LIVE NATIVITY
December 17 @ 6:30 pm AFTER 5:30 MASS
St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish
995 N. Sioux Point Rd., Dakota Dunes, SD
Sunday services 10:15 am (including Christmas Eve) Christmas Eve candlelight service 4 pm
Merry Christmas
CENTRAL BAPTIST CHURCH 4001 Indian Hills Dr, Sioux City, IA www.cbcsiouxcity.org
OUTSIDE, WEATHER PERMITTING. SINGING. LIVE ANIMALS. CHRISTMAS STORY READING. FREE SUPPER. Come early. Kids can pet animals after the program.
CHRISTMAS EVE MASS 4 pm . CHRISTMAS DAY MASS 9 am
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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The Christ
O
nce upon a time there was a young girl named Mary.
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
By welburnstuart/Shutterstock.com
She was still a teenager, but she was already engaged. Joseph was a fine man from her home town of Nazareth. Before they were able to get married something happened to her that would be hard for anyone to believe - much less her fiancée. Little did they know that they were about to become part of the biggest story of all time. The reason their lives were about to change was because of something that happened at the beginning of human history. When God created the world he thought it was pretty great. He made Adam and Eve and he hung out with them quite a bit. He loved them, and they loved him. But then something very bad happened. Adam and Eve lived in a garden. It was so beautiful and it had everything they could ever want. It was a happy time for them. Everywhere they looked there was beauty and delicious things they could eat and enjoy. There was only one tree that God said they were not to eat from. He told them that if they ate the fruit from that tree that they would die. So they stayed away from that tree. For awhile. One day, a creature came into the garden where they were living. Now this wasn’t unusual, all of God’s creatures lived in the garden. But this one was different. He started to talk about the tree. That one tree. He lied and said they could eat from it. He said that God wasn’t going to let them die but instead they would become like God if they ate it. Instead of waiting to ask God about it, they took a bite. They believed the liar and when they did that it was like calling God the liar. God still loved them, but he couldn’t trust them. He took them out of the beautiful garden where everything was provided for them. That wonderful relationship they had with God was dead. From that day on, people have had to work hard for the things they needed. Generation after generation God would tell people how to live and how to please him.
Sometimes people would want to be close with God, but then another generation came and messed it up. They wanted to do things their way. They didn’t think they needed God. On and on it went. People trying to fix themselves. To feel okay in the world. To feel accepted by God. Or to convince themselves they were okay without him. God gave them laws to help them and some of them tried really hard to live by them. But everyone failed. Everyone. The Bible says, “For all have sinned and fall short of the glory of God.” (Romans 3:23) We just couldn’t live up to God’s standard. No one could figure out how to get back that relationship with God that was killed in the garden. But God had a plan. He had chosen one group of people that he worked with over and over to help them understand what needed to happen. He gave them clues through prophets - men who spoke for God. It was like laying out a great detective novel. The people started to understand that they weren’t going to fix what was wrong with them - God was. The Jews, God’s chosen people, kept watching for the signs. They were excited for God to reveal his plan and they kept doing the things that God had commanded, but something changed. God was silent. No priest had heard from God and no prophet had shown up with a message for 400 years. But that was about to change. An elderly priest named Zechariah was married to Elizabeth. They did everything that God had commanded and were very good people. But one thing had always bothered them. They weren’t able to have any children. One day, when Zechariah was doing his priestly duties, it was his turn to go into the temple to burn incense before God. Probably expecting nothing out of the ordinary, he suddenly got the shock of his life. All of a sudden, right next to the alter where he was burning incense, an angel appeared! Zechariah nearly jumped out of his skin and had to grab onto the table for balance. The angel, probably smiling, said, “Do not be afraid, Zechariah; your prayer has been heard. Your wife Elizabeth will bear you a son, and you are to call him John.” The angel introduced himself as Gabriel and went
tmas Gift
BETTER / Home
A true Christmas story
on to tell him that his son John would be a big part of God’s plan - “to make ready a people prepared for the Lord.” Zechariah was having a hard time taking all this in, as you can imagine...and he kind of said the wrong thing. He asked Gabriel how he would know that this was all true. After all, he reminded Gabriel, he and his wife were way too old to be having kids. Gabriel, probably not smiling anymore, told Zechariah that he should believe him because he is one who stands in the presence of God. And that he’d figure out he was telling the truth soon enough - his wife would get pregnant and have a baby. Gabriel wasn’t too happy about Zechariah doubting him so he told him he wasn’t going to be able to speak until the baby came. Zechariah pretty quickly figured out that Gabriel was who he said he was. Elizabeth, old as she was, became pregnant. As the baby grew inside Elizabeth, Gabriel had another stop to make - in Nazareth. Young or old, it’s probably pretty shocking when an angel shows up out of nowhere and starts up a conversation. Mary, our young teenage girl, probably thinking about her upcoming wedding, finds herself face to face with Gabriel. Although he told her God was pleased with her, he saw that she was pretty freaked out. He says, “Do not be afraid, Mary; you have found favor with God.” Mary was listening now and Gabriel told her why he was there. “You will conceive and give birth to a son, and you are to call him Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over Jacob’s descendants forever; his kingdom will never end.” Mary knew how babies were made and was a little puzzled. “How will this be,” Mary asked the angel, “since I am a virgin?” Gabriel told her, “The Holy Spirit will come on you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God.” Then he told her about Elizabeth, who was well along in her pregnancy now. “Even Elizabeth your relative is going
to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be unable to conceive is in her sixth month. For no word from God will ever fail.” Unlike Zechariah, Mary had a good response. “I am the Lord’s servant,” Mary answered. “May your word to me be fulfilled.” Mary just had the most amazing, jaw-dropping experience of all experiences. An angel just told her that she was going to give birth to the Son of God! That was some incredible news for sure. But who would ever believe her? Once the word got out that Mary was pregnant the rumors began. Joseph, her fiancée, was the most affected. Who could believe such a story, even if she was pretty convincing? He didn’t know what to do? Joseph was a decent guy and he didn’t want to make a big scene so he decided he would break things off with her quietly. Then maybe all of this would just go away. As Joseph lay in bed making his plan of how to tell Mary, an angel came to him in his dreams, “Joseph son of David, do not be afraid to take Mary home as your wife, because what is conceived in her is from the Holy Spirit. She will give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus, because he will save his people from their sins.” Jesus’ name means “God saves.” Joseph was on board - amazed and dumbfounded perhaps - but not about to say no to God. Mary was focused on this amazing thing that was happening inside of her and took a trip to see Elizabeth. When she got there Elizabeth’s baby leapt for joy inside of her. Somehow Elizabeth knew that Mary’s baby was from God - and they both knew something amazing was going to happen. A couple of months later, Elizabeth gave birth to their son. When he was eight days old, and it was time to name the baby, Zechariah wrote that the boy’s name would be John. At that moment he could speak again. Back at home, and getting bigger by the month, Mary and the town of Nazareth got a message. They found out that a census was being taken and everyone who was an ancestor of David (which Joseph was) had to go to Bethlehem and register. Although they weren’t officially married yet, Mary was considered Joseph’s wife just because www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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pretty disturbed. He called all the leading priests to find out where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem in Judea,” they replied, “for this is what the prophet has written: ‘But you, Bethlehem, in the land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; for out of you will come a ruler who will shepherd my people Israel.’” King Herod lied and told the wisemen to let him know when they found the child so he could go and worship him too. What he really wanted was to make sure Jesus would never be king. The Magi found where Jesus was and “they bowed down and worshiped him. Then they opened their treasures and presented him with gifts of gold, frankincense, and myrrh.” When they left, they didn’t go back and tell Herod where Jesus was. God had warned them in a dream not to. So why did Jesus come? Jesus is God’s gift to the world. God knew that there was no way for us to be perfect like he originally made us - like we were back in that garden. Sin had broken that and we couldn’t unbreak it. Only God could fix it. The prophets kept saying that God was going to send a Savior. “Therefore the Lord himself will give you a sign. Behold, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel.” That means “God with us.” God came himself in a human body (Jesus) so he could show us how to live, who he is, and how to be made right with God so we can be with him forever. John 3:16 says, “For God so loved the world that He gave His one and only Son, that everyone who believes in Him shall not perish but have eternal life.” John 3:36 says, “Whoever believes in the Son has eternal life, but whoever rejects the Son will not see life, for God’s wrath remains on them.” See, God sent Jesus as a gift to everyone, but if we don’t accept God’s gift - meaning if we don’t want what God is offering us (a life that is lead by Jesus and the promise that we’ll be with him forever) - then nothing will change for us. Our relationship with God stays dead. This Christmas, don’t miss out on the biggest gift. Accept God’s gift of eternal life. John 17:3 says, “Now this is eternal life: that they know you, the only true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.” How do you accept this gift? Just tell God you want it. “If you confess that Jesus is Lord and believe that God raised him from death, you will be saved. For it is by our faith that we are put right with God; it is by our confession that we are saved.” Romans 10:9-10
Merry Christmas!
The Bible scripture references in the story, unless otherwise noted, are from the New Testament book of Matthew, chapters 1 & 2, and Luke, chapters 1 & 2.
By welburnstuart/Shutterstock.com
they were engaged - which means she had to go, too. It’s about an 80-mile trek from Nazareth to Bethlehem as the crow flies. Unfortunately, they aren’t taking Crow Airlines. They will only have their two feet and a donkey. And Mary was very, very pregnant. It probably seemed like a bad idea, but what they didn’t know was that an ancient prophecy was about to be fulfilled. When they arrived, the city was packed. They checked inn after inn but they were all full. The only place they could find to spend the night was in a stable. It didn’t smell the best and there were animals, but there was shelter and hay. Good thing they found a place because the baby was on the way. Mary gave birth to a son, just as God had said. She wrapped him up and put him in the manger. Not far from them, some shepherds were about to witness something spectacular. The night was quiet and clear. The shepherds had the sheep bedded down for the night and were looking to get some rest themselves. Suddenly, “An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, ‘Do not be afraid. I bring you good news that will cause great joy for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger.” Before the shepherds could gather their wits, a whole bunch of angels appeared, praising God and saying, “Glory to God in the highest heaven, and on earth peace to those on whom his favor rests.” The angels disappeared and the shepherds were not tired anymore! They were ready to see what the Savior of the world looked like. This is the one that the prophets had talked about...the one they said was coming. Now he was here! They headed for Bethlehem. Now Mary had just given birth and she and Joseph were alone with Jesus. Did she wonder where God was? Here she had to endure such a long journey and then there was no place but a barn to have God’s baby in? Just then some shepherds showed up, elated, and going on about angels appearing, a glorious show in the sky filled with heavenly beings praising God for this baby that was here. Here in the dark, in the stable. The shepherds could hardly believe that it was just as God had told them. Mary treasured what they told her. How had they known about her and this little baby? God had made sure they knew...and that she knew that he was right there. Joseph and Mary started their new life with their family of three and Jesus grew. One day, some Magi, or wisemen, came in search of something important. They asked King Herod, “Where is the one who has been born king of the Jews? We saw his star when it rose and have come to worship him.” King Herod didn’t know anything about this and he was
More than a car
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Ram By RickDeacon/Shutterstock.com; Charger By betto rodrigues/Shutterstock.com; Jeep By Art Konovalov/Shutterstock.com; Pacifica By Darren Brode/Shutterstock.com; Family By Soloviova Liudmyla/Shutterstock.com
Admit it. Our cars are much, much, much
WITH JENSEN DEALERSHIPS
pretty much the king of minivans. Car & Driver gave it 5 out of 5 stars. Plus there’s even a hybrid version because some people just gotta be green. “Whoever you are - the real you, your car is waiting here for you. How do I know? Because I’m Jensen.” Pacifica starts at $28,995
20/28 EPA
T
hey say that people look like their dogs and while that’s kind of weird, we all know someone that makes that theory true. While that may seem a little odd, one step beyond is that people not only love their cars (an inanimate object) but they “look” like them too. Think about it. If you saw a rough and tumble cowboy climb off his horse (coming back from the barn after sheering 100 sheep) your brow would be more than a little furrowed if he climbed into a light blue Prius. You know his vehicle is the banged up pickup with mud caked on it. People get happy when they have the car that is truly them. The one that makes them feel free. That comforts them after a hard day. That keeps the kids entertained. That lets them be who they are...or who they aspire to be. That’s why Bob Jensen, with Jensen Dealerships sells and services so many different types of cars. People aren’t just
searching for transportation to get from A to B. They are looking for the one that is an extension of their best self. In his Chrysler, Dodge, Jeep division in LeMars, IA, there are lots of options in the new car lineup that speak to very different people. The Jeep Wrangler is for the adventurous. The Dodge Charger exudes confidence and strength. The Ram pickups are for the heavy lifters, hard workers, the get ‘er done people. The Pacifica - it’s the family life car. It gets you. It knows you’re not just a parent or spouse or business person so it’s multifaceted - just like you. It’s got more than 100 standard and available features like surround-view camera, adaptive cruise control, and forward-collision alert. Stow ‘n Go seats are standard because sometimes you need to haul people and sometimes you gotta haul stuff. The top model even has a built-in vacuum. Yes, mom and dad, it knows that life gets messy. It is a 2017 10Best award winner and
5.7 sec 0-60
287 HP
Jeep Wrangler starts at $23,995
285
7.5 sec
17/21 EPA
0-60
HP
Dodge Charger starts at $27,995 19/31 EPA
6.2 sec 0-60
300 HP
Dodge Ram 1500 starts at $28,490 15/21 EPA
7 sec 0-60
395 HP
Jensen Dealerships treat the needs of each individual customer with paramount concern. We feature both new and used cars and offer financing and service on all our vehicles. Come visit us in LeMars or Sioux City on Stadium Drive, or online at jensendealerships.com www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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We like to move it, move it. How to stop that.
WITH CHARESE YANNEY, Guarantee Roofing, Siding, & Insulation Co., LLC.
T
here’s something in your house that is always moving. It’s looking for something and it is relentless in its pursuit. Any ideas what it is? It’s a bunch of hot air. Heat moves
constantly. It is in perpetual pursuit of things that are colder than it is. In the summer, the heat outside tries to get into the cooler house and in the winter the hot air inside tries to get out to cool off. It’s never happy to stay put. If your home feels cold and drafty in the winter that’s probably why. We asked Charese Yanney with Guarantee Roofing, Siding & Insulation Company to tell us how insulation works and how to get heat to behave itself. Charese said, “The goal is to stop or at least reduce heat flow.” She shared some insight on how to do just that Be resistant. “In the insulation world, everyone talks about the R-value. The R is for RESISTANCE. The higher the number, the better it resists heat making its way through it. The higher the R-value, the thicker the insulation will be. On an attic floor you could have 15" of insulation for an R-value around 50, but in the wall between 2"x4" studs you can only fit 31/2" so the R-value may only be around 10.
Choose wisely. There are different insulation materials to choose. Batting insulation works well in some areas, but blowing in cellulose when possible is a great choice. Per inch it typically has a higher R-value, it has fire retardant materials that are incredible, and bugs don’t like it at all.” Keep it clean. “Blowing cellulose gets into all the nooks and crannies, but it can get messy so we don’t drag the hoses through the house. We always go through a roof or gable vent. “The older your home, the less likely it is to have proper insulation so you’re probably paying more in energy bills. Insulation can stop the heat, and your money from moving out this winter.” Guarantee has been
serving Siouxland for 90 years specializing in roofing, siding, insulation, and other home and commercial renovation and repair.
Guarantee Roofing, Siding & Insulation 2005 4th St., Sioux City, IA . 712-277-3981 www.guaranteeroofing.com
Heater girl By Iakov Filimonov/Shutterstock.com
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
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Great gifts you haven’t thought of Snowflake background By DRogatnev/Shutterstock.com; Striped frame By Shamil Askerov/Shutterstock.com; numbers By Mary Voitikov/Shutterstock.com;dog By parsobchai Ngammoa/Shutterstock.com;
Holiday gifts re-imagined We do want to give gifts to the people we
We can surely be more creative than that.
love and care about, but why is it so hard to
This year, we are thinking outside of the gift
figure out something to get them? Dads have
bag for some really interesting ideas that
enough neckties, moms can lotion a third
people won’t politely nod and smile about
world country by now, and grandma has a
but will authentically shriek with joy when
stockpile of scented candles she’s waiting to
they see it. It’s going to be worth it just to
break out when the apocalypse comes.
hear that, eh? Wear your earmuffs.
Personalized family recipe towels
Doggie bootcamp or home training
J
eriJeanCrea8ions will put that special family recipe onto a towel to share with family and friends. Makes a great heirloom gift. Email your recipe and orders to JeriJeanCre8ions@gmail.com in Salix, IA. Recipe towels $30 each. To ensure Christmas delivery, order by midNovember. Digitized by Debbie Foote at gramadebbiesdesigns.net.
M
idwest Dog Training in Dakota Dunes, SD teaches owner and dog the basics of good obedience and behavior. Owners learn a better way to communicate and enhance the relationship between them and their pet. With their training and owner followthrough, the dog will behave for a lifetime. In-home training $495. More intensive boot camps available. Call 866-582-DOGS (3647). www.midwestdogtraining.com 25 www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
BETTER / Home
Chase away the cold automatically
A
udio Vision knows everyone hates going out to start a cold vehicle in the dead of winter. Overcome that issue with a remote car starter for that special person. Prices start at $220 to $350 installed. 4500 Singing Hills Blvd., Sioux City, IA. 712-271-4434.
Stuff stockings with fun
D
rop Zone Family Fun Center is the place to make new memories with your family, friends, or colleagues. No matter what the occasion is come enjoy recreational activities including trampolines, arcade games, golf simulator, and laser tag. Prices start at $5. 3840 Stadium Dr., Sioux City, IA. www.dropzoneffc.com 712-522-1722.
Mystery and intrigue await them
Everyone loves a night out
he Sioux City Community Theatre has been entertaining live theatre lovers for 70 years! For just $90 you get a flex pass of six entries to any of our six annual main stage productions. Upcoming features include “Our Town,” and the classic “Grease.” Purchase tickets for one show or season passes. 712-233-2719.
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
T
he Greatest Escape gives you sixty minutes to use your wits, skill, and brains to solve puzzles, crack codes, and find keys that will ultimately aid in your escape. Give your family or friends a unique experience! $25 - $375. The Greatest Escape, 712-252-5528. www.thegreatestescapesiouxcity.com. Enter promo code BeingBetter10 for 10% off!
Jumping kids By Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com
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Get the kids out of the house
Snowflake background By DRogatnev/Shutterstock.com; Striped frame By Shamil Askerov/Shutterstock.com; numbers By Mary Voitikov/Shutterstock.com
L
aunchPAD Children’s Museum membership is a magical gift that stays exciting all year long! Annual family memberships start at $99 and include admission for two adults and all the kids in the household. Enjoy members-only hours and other perks. 712-224-2542. 623 Pearl St, Sioux City, IA. www.launchpadmuseum.com
Make someone merry
M
erry Maids services give your friend or family member the ability to shake off the burden of house cleaning and enjoy their holiday. Give them the gift of time. Merry Maids is bonded and insured and provide their own cleaning supplies. $114*. 3531 Singing Hills Blvd. Sioux City, IA. www.merrymaids.com for more details. 712-255-0423. *Typical hourly rate.
Buy a gift and change a life
R
osie’s Boutique saw that thousands of children in Haiti end up in orphanages because their family cannot afford to care for them. Rosie’s Boutique was founded by Iowa natives Renae and Kayla Grooters. They sell handmade jewelry, gifts, and decor made by Haitian artisans so they can support their families. See a variety of products for any budget at www.rosiesboutiquehaiti.com.
Present them with adventure
S
tars, Inc gives horse riding lessons for those wanting to learn basic horsemanship skills and horse care. STARS offers gift certificates for riding lessons at $45 an hour and summer horse camp for kids 8 to 14 is $250. 33148 Co Rd K22, Sioux City, IA. To contact the riding center, go to www.scstars.org or call 712-239-5042. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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Q&A
Stay warm this season
What’s holding you back and how to move forward
Q. What do I need to do so my furnace [or heat pump] operates through the winter? A. BY SUTER SERVICES: The holidays are a bad time to have problems. Here are a few ideas to stay on top of things. 1. Check the air filter. It is imperative to check and most likely change the air filter monthly during the winter months because typically the equipment operates more in the winter months. 2. Clear the way. Make sure the furnace chimney is clean and clear of debris. If you have a high-efficiency furnace vented out the side of your home, make sure that the intake and exhaust are not plugged or blocked. Both pipes need to be clear for the furnace to operate properly.
Extra Tips: Install a carbon monoxide detector to keep your family safe. Get a set-back thermostat to save some money. Always call if you smell natural gas or if your furnace won’t stay running. If you have questions or would like to have your indoor air quality tested, give Suter Services a call at 712-490-9902. 1800 11th Street, Sioux City, IA. 712-252-3007 www.cwsuter.com
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Y
ou’ve made a lot of memories in your home. Maybe a lifetime’s worth. It’s no wonder that people have a hard time making the decision to downsize. Realtor® Carol Halstead with CENTURY 21 ProLink has seen how difficult it is for some. “People have trouble moving out. In some way they believe that the house is what is holding their family together.” Carol sees what a burden it can be to live in a home that no longer suits your needs. “It can be a physical challenge to keep up a home that’s too big for you - and a financial strain to pay for more house than you need.” “It may be hard to make the decision to move quickly. There are a few things you can do now to find out more about the process, whether it makes sense financially, and how to start getting yourself and your family ready if you do decide to move.”
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Know it’s worth. “Get a market analysis done. This is probably your best starting point. Any Realtor can do one for you and it is usually provided free. They look at the market, assess your homes perks and pitfalls, and review what other houses are selling for in your neighborhood. Then you’ll know where you stand financially.” Know the process. “Right now, starter homes (usually under $150,000) are moving pretty quickly. Homes in a higher price range have been on the market a little longer. Unless someone comes in with a cash offer, the process takes time. Have the Realtor explain the process and what you can do to improve your odds of selling quickly.” Holiday hand down. “When family is around for the holidays might be a good time to start downsizing stuff. “Remember, your home is not where your memories live, they live in your heart.” Carol Halstead (Licensed in IA & SD) is with CENTURY 21 ProLink and has been a Realtor® for 10+ Years. Contact her for all your home buying and selling needs at 712-574-4600 or via email at Carol@C21ProLink.com.
Family By Halfpoint/Shutterstock.com; House By V J Matthew/Shutterstock.com
3. Look inside. Keep the inside of the furnace clean and check the burners for rust or holes. Call a professional to inspect and service the burners to make sure that you don’t have carbon monoxide leaking into your home.
WITH CAROL HALSTEAD, REALTOR®
Yoga
it’s probably not as crazy as you think
BETTER
Body
WITH GRETCHEN WHEELOCK CERTIFIED YOGA INSTRUCTOR
People who have little to no exposure to yoga may have some misconceptions and even fears about what is actually happening in a yoga class. Yoga instructor, Gretchen Wheelock, wants to shed a little positive light on the practice. Do I have to do crazy poses?
“While some advanced practitioners of yoga can do amazing poses, that is not the norm in basic or gentle classes. Most of the postures in class are totally doable and easily modified for all levels of yogis.”
Is it a form of religion?
“The simple answer is no. Yoga has been around for thousands of years. The practice of yoga incorporates moving, breathing, and meditating. There is no one religion that owns those three things! Many practitioners choose to unite their faith with their yoga practice as it has the ability to deepen one’s faith. That’s what I’ve done with Holy Yoga.”
Well rounded and grounded
Gretchen Wheelock is a certified yoga instructor, wife, mom to Nola (3) and Leo (7), and has a doctorate in nursing. She teaches at Briar Cliff and is a nurse practitioner at student health and with Hospice of Siouxland. She teaches Holy Yoga on Friday mornings at Evolve and holds special classes during the holidays.
Can you explain the spiritual aspect more?
“The ultimate goal of yoga is to unite or “yolk” with God. It can be a deeply spiritual practice. Every single yoga class and yoga teacher is different. Some classes you will connect and others you will not. I teach a Christian yoga class that allows the students to be present in the studio by tuning out the world and being alone with God. My yoga practice has brought me closer to God and I can’t imagine my life without it. I want to share what I’ve found and how I feel with others so they can be closer to God and feel his presence. It’s a beautiful thing when you are able to move, pray, breath, feel, listen, and believe through the practices of yoga.”
Gretchen Wheelock is a certified yoga instructor and teaches at Evolve Yoga and Wellness
Evolve Yoga and Wellness 411 Pearl St., Sioux City, IA 712-389-4032 . www.evolvesiouxcity.com www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
29
BETTER / Body
Yoga...continued
A few basics
1.
Child’s Pose. Sit back on your heels, bring your forehead to the mat, and stretch your hands forward.
2.
Downward Dog. Think about reaching your tail bone to the sky and bring your weight into your heels.
What is your Holy Yoga class like?
“My Faithful Sunrise Flow class is at 6 a.m. on Friday mornings at Evolve Yoga Studio. This morning class is slower, relaxing, and focuses on awakening the body. We start with meditation on a theme for the class - maybe it’s beauty, love, peace, or forgiveness. I’ll share some thoughts on the topic and fuse biblical scripture into the meditation which follows the theme of the morning. It is very energizing and it truly changes your day. You leave in a good mood and you get to spill that positivity out into the world.”
3. Trisha and daughter Rylee hit the local parks, trails, or just make the rounds in their own neighborhood to get some fresh air and lowimpact exercise.
People talk about hot yoga. What’s that?
“There are so many different schools of yoga and hot yoga is one of them. Some yoga styles are quiet and peaceful while others are fast and intense. The beauty of yoga is that you can find the style that fits you best. Hot yoga is done with the idea that if the room is super warm, you’ll achieve higher levels of flexibility and you’ll sweat - helping to flush out toxins and lose weight. There are many benefits and a few risks to every style of yoga including hot yoga. It’s good to know your limits and listen to your body during your yoga practice.”
What do I need to do yoga?
“A desire to do it. It’s a good idea to have your own mat. If you have bad knees, you might want a little thicker mat but avoid a squishy foam mat as it could affect your balance. Find a mat with a good grip so that your hands don’t slip. Oh, and flexibility is not a requirement to start yoga, that’s what you will gain over time!”
30
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Warrior. Lunge with feet apart. Turn back foot out about 90 degrees and front heel should be in line with the arch of the back foot. Bend front knee towards a 90 degree angle, keeping knee in line with ankle and open hips towards side of mat. Look over your front fingertips.
Last thoughts?
“You have to start somewhere. I was once that new student that didn’t want to be in the front row or have everyone looking at me. I then realized that a great studio environment has no judgement or comparison. Come as you are. If you’re timid, start with a yin, gentle, or slow flow class. Yoga is waiting for you. “Namaste (God’s light in me, honors and acknowledges God’s light in you).”
BETTER / Body
We know what you’re thinking, but you have
Nothing to fear WITH FAMILY 1st DENTAL
W
e know why you don’t come to the dentist. You imagine it being less than pleasant or downright painful. We asked a few local dentists with Family 1st Dental to give us some insight to see if our dental fears are justified.
Fearful woman By wavebreakmedia/Shutterstock.com
Fearing the worst
First up is Dr. Doug Barr. “One of the reasons people don’t come in is because they believe it’s going to be bad news. Dr. Doug Barr 3220 Plaza Drive Especially if South Sioux City, NE people haven’t (402) 494-2144 been to the dentist in a long time they figure the experience might not be good. That’s usually not the case. A young guy just came in the other day who hadn’t been in for 10 years and he was expecting the worst. His teeth were in fine shape. “Patients also fear they’ll be berated for not coming in for so long. We just don’t do that. We understand all the worries and what keeps them away. We just want them to know that we
won’t judge them and are really just here to help. We’ll do a check up and make sure they understand what needs to be done and their options. For those patients who are extremely anxious, we have meds to help them relax so they are totally comfortable.”
Not what you think
Dr. Kevin Lilly says one of the things they hear over and over is, “That was much better than I thought!” “If people had Dr. Kevin Lilly 2100 Indian Hills Dr, a bad experience Sioux City, IA when they were (712) 239-5125 a kid, they are reluctant to come in themselves or to put their kids through that. “Things have changed in the last 30 years. Processes are faster, more comfortable, and anesthetic and pain management are much more effective. We use a compassionate approach and if it’s painful or too uncomfortable we’ll stop and figure out a better way. We are especially gentle with kids.”
Fearing nothing
Another reason people don’t come
into the dentist is because they don’t think anything is wrong. But what you don’t know can hurt you. Dr. David Noble Dr. David Noble 1410 Broadway St., tells us, “Some Dakota City, NE people think ‘If (402) 987-3484 it doesn’t hurt it’s okay.’ Small cavities or early stages of gum disease are not painful but can turn into horrendous problems if they go unchecked. Having regular six-month checkups gives yourself the opportunity to stay on top of things so a little problem doesn’t turn ugly. We’ve seen people whose first sign of gum disease was when they noticed their teeth were loose. That’s not good.”
What you don’t know
Dr. Johanna Halbur says many don’t know about some new dental Dr. Johanna Halbur care options. 2928 Hamilton Blvd. Upper E, Sioux City, IA “For kids, we now do dental (712) 255-5754 sealants as the permanent teeth come in. It’s a plastic coating to protect teeth from decay and it works amazingly well! Plus most insurances pay for it. “For teens and adults, even seniors in their 60s and 70s, you may be able to have that smile they’ve always wanted. With the Invisalign® retainers, teeth are gradually straightened without the need for braces. “There are so many new advances and products now. People can have a great experience and a great smile.” No more fear. Let’s go to the dentist.
“Where your family comes first.” www.familyfirstdental.com.
www.lillyfamilydentistry.com An affiliate of Family 1st Dental
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
31
BETTER / Body
Brain benders
Deer Directional.
This deer needs to go another way.
I love Christmas
You will know that I am coming From the jingle of my bell, But exactly who I am is not an easy thing to tell. Children, they adore me for they find me jolly, but I do not see them when the halls are decked with holly. My job often leaves me frozen, I am a man that all should know, But I do not do business in times of sleet or ice or snow.
It was a snowy, blowy day and this reindeer lost sight of the North Pole. He’s going the wrong way. Can you help him change course? Moving just one toothpick can you
I travel much on business, But no reindeer haul me around, I do all my traveling firmly on the ground.
get the reindeer to face another direction?
Sudoku
Who am I?
Missing word
The same 3-letter word has been taken out of the words below. What is it?
B_ _ _E SC_ _ _E
6 8 1 9 8 2
T_ _ _ AL CA_ _ _ OU
Deciphering dingbats
1. Eggs
EASY
T M U
Y
6.
4. SOMEWHERE
7. K CLOCK O
RAINBOW
5. GNIKOOL
32
M
3. ARREST You’re
R C
8.
I’MTHING
SOME
2 6 7
7
1 9
4 5 1 4 6
4
2 9 5 3 2 8 9 3 7 4 4 5 3 6 7 3 1 8
Each of the word groupings below represent a common phrase or saying. For example the first on is “eggs over easy.” Can you decipher the rest?
2. l R l E l A l D l
Every sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically. Enter numbers into the blank spaces so that each row, column, and 3x3 box contains all the numbers 1 to 9.
ANSWERS Deer directional: If you didn’t let your idea of where the ground should be cloud your judgment this probably didn’t take you too long. It is a flying reindeer after all. I love Christmas, who am I?: The ice cream man. Missing word: RIB. 1. Bribe. 2. Tribal. 3. Scribe. 4. Caribou. Deciphering dingbats: 1. Eggs over easy 2. Read between the lines. 3. You’re under arrest. 4. Somewhere over the rainbow. 5. Looking backward. 6. Upset tummy. 7. Rock around the clock. 8. I’m in the middle of something.
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Bells By Allies Interactive/Shutterstock.com; Reindeer By d1sk/Shutterstock.com; Striped 3 By pikepicture/Shutterstock.com; Eggs By Roslen Mac/Shutterstock.com;
[
I love the time of Christmas, But that’s not my vocational season, And I assure that is because of a sound economic reason.
BETTER / Body WITH MIDLANDS CLINIC COORDINATED BREAST CARE
What you want to hear when the news isn’t
What you want to hear to come to a unified decision for treatment. The multi-disciplinary breast cancer committee includes the general surgeon, plastic surgeon, oncologist, radiation oncologist, radiologist, and pathologist.
How it’s a win for patients
I
n the US, 1 in 8 women will be diagnosed with breast cancer in their lifetime. While that statistic is sobering, the way doctors are dealing with breast cancer in Siouxland is encouraging. Even exciting. Midlands Clinic teamed up with June E. Nylen Cancer Center and they are completely changing the way breast cancer treatment is handled. Dr. Volz with Midlands Clinic said, “After months of work, we are excited to announce our latest service line: Midlands Clinic Coordinated Breast Care. The vision for coordinated breast care grew out of recognition to enhance collaboration between local healthcare providers to expedite the process from diagnosis to treatment.” Dr. Volz explains, “It was taking too long for a patient to go from specialist to specialist and appointments would sometimes be weeks apart. Now everybody works together at the same appointment. Even better, the treatment plan is developed based
on multiple experts weighing in on each patient’s case. It’s completely personalized.”
How it works
Barb says, “Patients come in very scared. A cancer diagnosis can change your life in a half-second. With this process, patients get treatment as soon as possible and we make sure they feel informed and cared for. “One young gal came through our process and pretty much had her life back in 45 days. That was unheard of before. “Each situation is unique, but with the new approach patients can get the treatment process going faster, with more knowledge, and less fear.”
The patient will be initially contacted by the Breast Care Coordinator, Barb Hansen, RN. She will provide immediate support, address any concerns, and ensure they are scheduled immediately. The patient will then be simultaneously evaluated by a breast surgeon, breast oncologist, and plastic surgeon. The team takes their findings to the weekly meeting
Part of the Coordinated Breast Care Team
Santiago Moscoso, MD; Laura McNaughton, MD; Lawrence Volz, MD, FACS; and Craig Nemecheck, MD, FACS. Contact our Breast Care Coordinator, Barb Hansen, RN to learn more about
Coordinated Breast Care from Midlands Clinic at 605-217-5570, or visit midlandsclinic.com. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
33
BETTER / Body
Avoiding the flu?
WITH DR. DANIEL IRWIN
3 tips to help yourself and others We asked Dr. Irwin to clarify what we can do better to avoid the flu.
I
t’s that time of year - cold and flu season is peaking. No one wants to get sick, and despite tips on how to reduce our chances, we end up being our own worst enemy where prevention is concerned. Dr. Daniel Irwin at Family Medicine Center sees it all the time. “We see people come in so sick and many times it could be avoided or less intense if they just did a few things differently.”
What a pain! When the ouch doesn’t end.
WITH MIDWEST PAIN CLINICS
here’s been an accident, a slip and a fall, an illness, a diagnosis, a collision on the field, or in your living room with a toddler’s doll buggy. You go to the doctor and get treatment, but the pain is hanging on...and on...
2. Get vaccinated. “There is a misconception that getting the flu shot can possibly set you up to get sick. That is false. If people get sick after getting vaccinated they were already exposed or they just have a cold. The vaccination doesn’t stop a cold. Flu vaccination greatly increases your odds of not getting the flu and also may make your flu illness milder if you do get sick.” and on. John Cook MD, Dave Welch, PA and Amy Klimisch, a nurse practitioner at Midwest Pain Clinics say not to worry. There are solutions. “We see people when their primary care isn’t working. We deal with all kinds of pain for all kinds of reasons. We listen to people and figure out what their unique situation is. Everybody is different - what their injury/episode was, what their physical abilities and limitations are, what they’ve tried, what their history is with pain management, and what their expectations are. All of it matters so we can figure out solutions. “We deal with pain in multiple ways. We’re not going to do just one thing.” So what’s their advice for those dealing with chronic pain? “You’re tougher than you think. There are some potent drugs to shut down the misery, but often the
Dr. Cook (third from right), David Welch, PA (center), and nurse practitioner Amy Klimisch (third from left) and their staff work together so you can participate in life again.
Dr. Daniel Irwin
is a board certified family medicine physician.
Family Medicine Center 2501 Pierce St. Sioux City, IA 712-294-5000 www.thefamilymedicinecenter.org
side effects are worse than the pain. Narcotic pain meds can be addictive. We want to have the best, long term outcome so we take a nonpharmaceutical approach as much as possible. When people focus on long term quality of life they have this self-realization that they can deal with pain in other ways. “We look at options like injections, surgery, physical therapy, medication management, and often work with other professionals incorporating things like massage, acupuncture, and chiropractic care to come up with the right combination.” When pain is persistent, there is help.
Midwest Pain Clinics . 211 Sioux Point Rd Suite 200 . Dakota Dunes SD 57049 . 605-242-3456 www.midwestpainclinics.com
34
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Sick woman By nullplus/Shutterstock.com; Back pain By Albina Glisic/Shutterstock.com
T
1. Wash, don’t cover. “Everyone tells you to wash your hands but many times people opt for the gel hand sanitizer instead. The goal of hand washing is to get the bad stuff off. With hand sanitizer you’re just covering it up hoping to kill it. Alcohol-based hand gels don’t kill everything.”
3. Don’t wait. “People wait too long to get into the doctor. There are medicines that may help decrease the duration by about a day if taken in the first 48 hours of symptom onset. If your “cold” symptoms are severe and your body aches feel like you’ve been hit by a bus, it’s probably the flu. “Remember, if you have a fever you are probably contagious so stay home. And that means until you aren’t taking meds to eliminate your fever.” This flu season, let’s help ourselves and others.
Relief is in sight for men with prostate issues
BETTER / Body
WITH SIOUXLAND UROLOGY
expert expert ASK THE ASK THE
The benefits “The treatment typically takes less than an hour, preserves sexual function, doesn’t require cutting, heating, or removal of tissue. Compared to other BPH surgeries, PHYSICIAN IMAGE is safer the UroLift System treatment with minimal side effects. The most common side effects IMAGE would be mild PHYSICIAN Think You Have an Enlarged Prostate? to moderate pain or burning with Urologist[s] [PHYSICIAN NAME(S)] of [PRACTICE NAME] Answers Questions about Symptoms and urination, blood in the urine, pelvic Discusses a Minimally Invasive Breakthrough Treatment Option pain, urgent need to urinate and/ Think You Have an Enlarged Prostate? Urologist[s] [PHYSICIAN NAME(S)] of [PRACTICE NAME] Answers Questions about Symptoms and or the inability to control the urge. Can You Describe What Minimally What Are the Symptoms of Enlarged [PHYSICIAN NAME] Discusses a Minimally Invasive Breakthrough Treatment Option However, [PRACTICE most symptoms resolve Invasive Treatments are Available? Prostate and When Should Men See NAME] a Urologist? within two weeks to a month after the I’m very excited to offer my patients a Can You Describe What Minimally What the of Enlarged revolutionary treatment option called the OverAre 70% of Symptoms men in their 60s have [PHYSICIAN NAME] procedure. ® Treatments are Available? Invasive Prostate and Whenprostate Should1.This Mencan See UroLift cause System treatment. The UroLift System “If you’re symptoms of enlarged [PRACTICE NAME] dealing with prostate he docs at Siouxland down the road. Some patients suffer a Urologist? loss of productivity, interrupted sleep and, in treatment a breakthrough, minimally I’m veryisexcited to offer my patients invasive a issues, give us a call and set up an Urology Associates see side effects including dizziness, 2 a some cases, option to treattreatment enlarged prostate. It does revolutionary option called thenot Over 70%can of cause men indepression. their 60s have lot of ofenlarged men who are 1dealing or sexual dysfunction. require cutting, heating, or removal UroLift®any .This can causeheadaches, System treatment. The UroLift of System appointment today. Relief is in sight.” symptoms prostate prostate Here’s howgive itminimally works: a invasive urologist loss of productivity, interrupted sleepIfand, in Medications treatmenttissue. isdon’t a breakthrough, withsymptoms enlarged prostate. always adequate Common include: 2 uses thetoUroLift System device to Itliftdoes and move some cases, cansomeone cause depression. option treat enlarged prostate. not youneed or you day know of symptoms. Start • Frequent to urinate both and nightreliefthe enlarged prostateheating, tissue out of the way require any cutting, or removal of so fits that•category, they have some options “Surgery may be an option, like Weak or slow urinary stream itprostate no longer blocks the urethra (the passageway tissue. Here’s how it works: a urologist Common symptoms include: that might be more interesting than in transurethral resection of theimplants prostate that urine flows through). Tiny are uses the UroLift System device to lift and move • sense that youtocannot completely empty Start •A Frequent need urinate day and night(TURP) the past. Here’s what they hadboth to sayortophotovaporization the placed holdprostate the tissue in place, like tiebacks the enlarged tissue out ofof the way so your bladder • Weak or slow urinary streamprostate on curtain, leaving an(the unobstructed it noa window longer blocks urethra passageway “Dealing with a problematic prostate (PVP), are the very effective. • Difficulty or delay in starting urination pathway urine to flow normally again.are that urinefor flows through). Tiny implants A sense that you cannot is pretty• common. Over 70%completely of men empty in These typically require general placed to hold the tissue in place, like tiebacks • Urgent feeling of needing to urinate your bladder their 60s have symptoms of enlarged anesthesia, overnight hospitalization, on a window curtain, leaving What are the Benefits of an theunobstructed • urinarycan stream that stopsof and starts •A Difficulty or delay in starting urination prostate. This cause loss and post-operative catheterization. pathway for urine to flow normally again. UroLift System? productivity, sleep, and There is increased risk with surgery • Urgentinterrupted feeling of needing to urinate [I perform the UroLift System treatment in Enlarged prostate can wreak havoc on a What are the Benefits of the possibly depression. of erectile dysfunction or loss of treatment my office, which patients like.] The • A urinary stream that stops and starts man’s quality of life, so it’s important to see a UroLift takes typically under an hour, preserves sexual Common symptoms ejaculation. ”System? physician if these problems persist. function, doesn’t cutting, treatment heating or in [I perform the require UroLift System Enlarged can wreak on a • Frequent needprostate to urinate at allhavoc hours removal tissue.patients Compared other BPH my office,ofwhich like.]toThe treatment man’s quality of life, so it’s important to see a Treatment • WeakWhat or slow urinaryOptions streamDo You A minimally invasive option surgeries, the UroLift System has a typically takes under an hour, treatment preserves sexual physician if thesetoproblems persist. Recommend Your Patients? Finish • Feeling your bladder is never empty “We do safety have a revolutionary strong profile with minimal side effects function, doesn’t require cutting, heating or 3. Treatment options for enlarged prostate • Urination difficulty or delay treatment option called theareUroLift® removal of tissue. Compared tomild other Most common side effects to BPH Whatfrom Treatment Options Do You range medications to surgery, with surgeries, the UroLift System treatment has a • Urgent feeling of needing to urinate System treatment. The UroLift System moderate and include pain or burning with Recommend tooptions Your Patients? Finish minimally invasive in between. 3 strong safety profile with minimal side effects urination, blood in the urine, pelvic pain, • A urinary stream thatfor stops andprostate starts treatment is a breakthrough, minimally . Treatment options enlarged Medications can be helpful in relieving urgent need to urinate and/or to Most common side effects arethe mildinability to range fromfor medications to but surgery, withmust invasive option to treat enlarged symptoms some men, patients control theand urge. Most pain symptoms resolved moderate include or burning with minimallytaking invasive options between. “An continue enlarged prostate caninmake life prostate. Ittwo does not require any them long-term to maintain within to four afterpelvic the procedure. urination, blood in weeks the urine, pain, the effects. Some patients may suffer side Medications can be helpful in quality relieving miserable and diminish your of cutting, heating, removal urgent need to or urinate and/orof theprostate inability to including dizziness, sexualtissue. symptoms for some patientsormust References control thehow urge. itMost symptoms resolved life, so effects it’s important tomen, see headaches, abutphysician Here’s works: a urologist 1. Berry, et al., J Urol 1984 dysfunction. Andthem somelong-term may not to getmaintain adequate continue taking within two four weeksdevice after thetoprocedure. 2. Speakman et al.,to 2014 BJUI International if theserelief problems persist. ” uses the UroLift System lift of theirSome symptoms. the effects. patients may suffer side 3. Roehrborn, et al., J Urology 2013 and move the enlarged prostate tissue effects including dizziness, headaches, or sexual References Surgical options, such as transurethral resection 1. Berry, al., J Urolso 1984it no longer blocks dysfunction. And some may not get adequateofout of Available options theet way [PHYSICIAN NAME] of thetreatment prostate (TURP) or photovaporization 2. Speakman et al., 2014 BJUI International relief of their symptoms. 3. Roehrborn, et al., J Urology 2013 [PRACTICE NAME] the prostate (PVP), areofvery effective. However, “There are a number possibilities the urethra (the passageway that urine these typically require general anesthesia, Surgical options, such as transurethral resection [PHONE NUMBER] from medication to surgery, and flows through). Tiny implants are [PHYSICIANLOGO] NAME] overnight hospitalization, of the prostate (TURP) orand [PRACTICE minimally invasive options photovaporization inpost-operative between. ofplaced to hold the tissue in place, like [PRACTICE NAME] catheterization. Surgery can also increase the the prostate (PVP), are very effective. However, Medications may give relief some on aNUMBER] window curtain, leaving Siouxland Urology Associates risk of typically erectile dysfunction orfor loss of ejaculation.tiebacks these require general anesthesia, [PHONE men, but patients have to continue pathway for urine to overnight hospitalization, and post-operative an unobstructed 455 N Sioux Point Rd., North Sioux City, SD [PRACTICE LOGO] Surgerythe can effects also increase the flow normally again.” 605-217-7000 . www.siouxlandurology.com taking catheterization. them to maintain
Restroom By sirtravelalot/Shutterstock.com; Prostate Graphics ©2017 NeoTract, Inc.
T
©2017 NeoTract, Inc. All rights reserved. MAC00530-01 Rev A
risk of erectile dysfunction or loss of ejaculation.
©2017 NeoTract, Inc. All rights reserved. MAC00530-01 Rev A
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
35
BETTER / Body
Laughter Laughter is the
best medicine.
Funny. Random. Thoughts Mothers are basically part of a scientific experiment to prove that sleep is not a crucial part of life.
[Now hear this
If you listen to music through headphones or earbuds, protect your ears with the 60/60 rule: Listen with headphones at no more than 60% volume for no more than 60 minutes a day. Earbuds are especially dangerous, as they fit directly next to the eardrum. If possible, opt for over-the-ear headphones.
[Give it a rest
When ears are exposed to loud noises for a prolonged period of time, like at a concert or a club, they need time to recover. Step outside for a few minutes every so often to give them a break. Researchers have found that your ears need around 16 hours of quiet to recover from one loud night out.
[Perk up your ears
Certain medications, such as non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDS) like aspirin, ibuprofen and naproxen, can sometimes contribute to hearing loss. Discuss medications with your doctor if you’re concerned that they’ll impact your hearing ability and take them only as directed. Hearing Info courtesy of EarQ
It’s funny how the colors red, white, and blue represent freedom until they are flashing behind your car. Most common lies ever told: “I didn’t do it” “I’m fine” “I have read and agreed to the Terms and Conditions” Dear Algebra, Please stop asking everyone to find your x. She’s not coming back.
Great advice from Mark Twain
It is better to give
“The best way to cheer yourself up is to try to cheer somebody else up.”
Research was done on people both giving and receiving help. The test showed the giver benefited more than the receiver with reduced stress, bigger mental rewards, and feelings of goodwill.
I tried to catch some fog the other day. Mist. Neil Armstrong was the first man on the moon. Neil A. backwards is Alien. Anyone else freaked out right now?
In the know
[Almost] worthless facts. The name for the shape of a Pringles® chip is a hyperbolic paraboloid. Most toilet paper in France is pink. Digging a hole to China is theoretically possible if you start in Argentina. If you sneeze while traveling at 60 mph your eyes are closed for about 50 feet. A couple of college kids recreated a live version of Toy Story in 2013. You can watch it on YouTube. Scientists aren’t sure if bullfrogs ever sleep.
36
Better yourself
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Let go of anger.
“Anger is an acid that can do more harm to the vessel in which it is stored than to anything on which it is poured.”
Doctors report that in the two hours after an angry outburst, the chance of having a heart attack doubles.
Stop feeling entitled
“Don’t go around saying the world owes you a living. The world owes you nothing. It was here first.”
Studies show that people who feel less entitled seem to have better relationships and greater self-esteem than those who present themselves as more deserving than others.
Headphones guy By g-stockstudio/Shutterstock.com; Ear exam By Bangkoker/Shutterstock.com;Bullfrog By Worraket/Shutterstock.com; Summit By Prazis Images/Shutterstock.com; Clock By HAKINMHAN/Shutterstock.com;
Body of Knowledge
I bet earth makes fun of the other planets for having no life.
A study by Logitech, revealed where your lost remote is ∙ 50% chance it’s stuck between your sofa cushions. ∙ 4% are found in the fridge or freezer. ∙ 2% turn up somewhere outdoors or in the car.
Life
Do you have what it takes to be a
BETTER
By Rawpixel.com/Shutterstock.com
. . . (Manager of Money)
Women control 85% of all spending. There are more women in college than men. There are more women in the workplace than men. However, women lack confidence when it comes to handling finances. That’s about to change. Security National Bank is educating women on all different aspects of money management. Come along and you, too, can be a savvy money manager in no time...ladies first, but men are definitely welcome.
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
37
BETTER / Life
Being a good M.O.M.
.
f you don’t think women are interested in understanding something as seemingly complex as how to invest money, well, 200+ Siouxland women recently set the record straight. Although studies show that women are more likely to be less confident than men when it comes to investment and wealth management, Security National Bank’s Vice President & Trust Officer, Gina Sitzmann, believed they would be eager to learn. Gina put her theory to the test. This past September, Security hosted a seminar with guest speaker Candice Tse from Goldman Sachs Asset Management group. That’s when over 200 women showed up. Candice’s workshop covered some basics on investing and understanding market trends. The night was so well received Security has launched an educational money seminar series entitled, M.O.M. UNIVERSITY. The plan is to have a series of free, low-key, “Lunch and Learn” classes on various money management topics. In November, the topic will be on How to Prepare for Drafting a Simple Will. Future topics may cover Starting a New Business; Marriage, Divorce, and Finances; Retirement Strategies, and more. They are eager to hear suggestions of what attendees want to learn about in the world of finance. Gina says that women can be pretty hard on themselves. Nobody likes to feel dumb. They get frustrated saying, “I should know this!” “That’s why we’re doing these Lunch and Learns,” Gina says. “There are
They’re making the first session one that applies to everyone. “We’re starting with the topic of preparing a will because that’s one thing we all have in common. At some point, we’re all going to die and someone will be left to deal with things. With women having a longer life span than men, the odds go up it will be us having to navigate our loved ones’ last wishes. Being prepared makes things a whole lot easier for everybody.”
WITH GINA SITZMANN, SECURITY NATIONAL BANK WEALTH MANAGEMENT
women encouraged...men welcome
I
so many people in the same boat. We can all get together and dive into one topic. When people understand something then they have confidence because the fear is gone. When you don’t know, you procrastinate, and that will keep you from being successful. Knowledge allows you to leave with better goals you can act on.” Gina wants to make sure no one feels like they can’t come. She stressed that you don’t have to know anything to get something out of it. “We’ll get everyone up to speed with definitions of terms, give info, and real world examples so it all makes sense.”
of adults don’t have a will.
If you’re interested in registering for a class or finding out more, just head to snbonline.com.
Join us!
of women want to learn more about financial planning
38
Class Nov. 9th . 11:45 am - 1 pm. Topic: How to Prepare for Drafting a Simple Will Downtown @ Security National Bank 3rd Floor Conference Room. Free lunch. Presented by Gina Sitzmann. RSVP at snbonline.com/MomU
Gina Sitzmann, CTFA, AEP® is Vice President & Trust Officer for Security National Bank’s Wealth Management division.
Visit Security National Bank’s website at snbonline.com/MomU to register for a class and to check out upcoming topics or call 712-277-6500.
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
BETTER / Life
Avoiding the ridiculous
WITH Mitch Boone, Occupational Health Director, TRI-STATE NURSING
and the everyday workplace problems
Bear By Olga_Narcissa/Shutterstock.com
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orking at an adventure park in the winter, a young man was instructed to fix the fence of the bear enclosure. The boss explained that the bears would not be a problem since they were hibernating in their cave - but he stressed not to bother them. What his employer didn’t realize was that before coming to work, the young man had started his day with more than a little marijuana. He soon decided he was hungry and perhaps the bears were too. He headed to the den to offer them some munchies. Turns out one of them was hungry and took a big bite out of the young man’s derrière before he escaped the enclosure. Nope, workman’s comp didn’t cover his injuries. While that may be a pretty extreme case, workers have accidents all the
time. Typically, it’s just that, but once in awhile it’s due to making the decision to drink or do drugs before work. Like the young man, employees can wind up losing more than their job. Did you know that when employers do drug and alcohol screenings before hiring, after an accident, and when there are suspicions of substance abuse, it lowers their workers’ compensation costs? Not only is it a financial issue, but a safety one. For workers who are driving a 40-ton truck or running machinery in a plant, odds go up that not just the operator will get injured if something goes wrong. At Tri-State Nursing, they’re the ones who show up for employers to keep things safe and employees in check. In Siouxland, when there’s an accident, most times they are the ones that show up at the hospital to administer tests to determine if drugs or alcohol were a factor.
Mitch Boone, Occupational Health Director at Tri-State Nursing says, “We’re on call 24/7 and we’ve seen some bad stuff that happens at work, but people are usually clean. They may have made a bad decision, but drugs and alcohol don’t usually play a part. But, for those times when they do, it sure helps the employers get through a lot of issues quickly.” Mitch adds, “I think one of the reasons having screenings as part of a company’s protocol is beneficial is that it motivates employees not to engage in bad behavior. If you know you’ll get fired if you have drugs or alcohol in your system, people think twice.” As part of Tri-State’s Occupational Health services, they also work with companies on all aspects of health and safety in the workplace - a lot of that is focusing on prevention of hazards. They vaccinate employees, offer first aid training, school physicals, and CPR training. They help businesses and workers be proactive to avoid workplace issues - ridiculous and otherwise.
70%
Of all drug users, nearly 70% are employed and active in the workplace. Source: Substance Abuse and Mental Health Admin.
Effective bystander CPR provided immediately after sudden cardiac arrest can double or triple a victim’s chance of survival, but only 32% of cardiac arrest victims get CPR from a bystander. Sadly, less than 8% of people who suffer cardiac arrest outside the hospital survive.
8%
Source: American Heart Assoc.
40 to 60%
Recent studies show that flu vaccination reduces the risk of flu illness by between 40% and 60%. Source: CDC, Sept 2017
Tri-State Nursing’s goal is to keep employees and the community healthy by providing programs that encourage healthy behaviors. It’s important that your company works with an occupational health provider who knows what regulations are affecting your workplace’s health and safety. Contact us at 712-277-4442 or online at TriStateNursing.com. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Life
The boy with half a heart
WITH SARAH MORGAN, CAMP HIGH HOPES and Dylan’s mom, Samantha Finnesgard
shines in a place that’s all heart
Being held hostage
Samantha shares, “I never understood how dibilitating ADD was. Your child can have a melt down without warning. You stop going out in public as much. “It’s like this invisible disease. People can be very judgmental. What they don’t understand is that with these types of kids they may be very smart in some areas yet they may be 30% behind emotionally and socially. If you saw a five-year-old acting that way you wouldn’t question it but because they are really eight you think they should be able to behave. It’s just so hard for everyone.” Sam continued, “The truth is there are a lot of people with kids that have behavioral issues. It’s extremely exhausting and overwhelming. You are held hostage by your child’s problems.” Camp High Hopes appeared on the Finnesgard’s radar when they were trying to navigate all of this. “We were going from one counselor to another,” Sam said. “We needed a break but it’s hard to find a place that can handle behavioral issues. We were always nervous when we left him somewhere.
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ope. It doesn’t look like there’s anything wrong with Dylan Finnesgard. But, in his eight years on the planet he’s gone through more than most adults will ever have to deal with. Dylan was born with just half a heart requiring three open heart surgeries. At 20 months, he had a stroke and at age five he had a seizure. Both had doctors stumped as to why they occured. For the most part, Dylan
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can keep up with the other kids. He gets frustrated at times when he gets tired quickly, gets dizzy, and his tolerance for heat is pretty low. As a nurse, his mom Samantha understood the physical issues. Yet, his biggest struggles today are more than that. As Dylan grew, his parents soon discovered a fact they didn’t know: about 40% of kids with complex congenital heart disease have behavioral disorders like ADD, ADHD, OCD, and autism.
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
BETTER / Life “Suddenly here is Camp High Hopes (CHH) in the midst of such a discouraging time. It’s just such a joyful thing. It was the one place we felt completely relaxed to leave him. “The staff at CHH are trained to deal with all kinds of issues. We were just blown away by how good CHH is. They meet you at your level. “When we arrived for camp they asked us if we had any goals for Dylan. I got all teary and said, ‘I just want him to make a friend.’ It was so great for him and for us.”
Who can qualify
Sam says, “I was elated when I found Dylan qualified. People need to know that an ADD or ADHD diagnosis qualifies for their kids to come. Moms and dads need a break.” Sarah Morgan, Camp Advancement Director, points out that their programs are for both kids and adults. There are programs for those struggling with physical limitations and other programs for those with emotional and intellectual struggles. Sarah says, “We can serve individuals with a wide range of disabilities. When it’s hard for them to have a good outcome at other camps we offer an environment where they can succeed.”
Pushing beyond limitations Sarah explains, “We have 90 acres with an eight-acre lake. All of our activities
are adaptive. That means if you lack upper body strength you can still do archery. If you are in a wheelchair we can still get you into a canoe. If you want to go climbing we have a special harness to get you to the top.”
What it costs and who’s paying
So what does all this fun cost. Sarah says, “We operate at a 3:1 ratio or less. So, one helper for every three campers. Sometimes we need 2:1 or even 1:1. The cost for one week of sleep away camp costs CHH about $3000. We only charge $598 - and there are “camperships” to help pay that. A Medicaid waiver can be used, too. The rest has to come from donations.” Sarah says, “We aren’t affiliated with anyone - no government funds. We raise money through grants, our fundraisers, and we rely on donors, individuals, and businesses to cover the rest. Right now, we serve more than 500 campers year-round with most coming from the Siouxland area.”
What’s on tap Camp High Hopes has a couple
of needs they will be working on. One is a Welcome Center that will provide space for offices. Right now they operate out of part of the main lodge which can be quite distracting for everyone. The second item is a Boathouse with a handicap accessible restroom that is closer to the water so activities aren’t cut short.
Above: Mitchell & Samantha Finnesgard with Dylan and daughter Alana. Last year Dylan was awarded the title of Smile Ambassador for Camp High Hopes. Opposite and below: Dylan and friends having fun at Camp High Hopes.
What you can do Sarah says, “The most rewarding
way people can help is to volunteer and work directly with the campers. We also have an ongoing list of needs like toilet paper and paper plates. Obviously, we need donations to cover the other 80% of our camp costs. We encourage people to get involved and just see the difference this place makes - for our campers, our families, and our volunteers.” Dylan’s mom, Sam, agrees, “Camp High Hopes has been such a blessing. It gives us a break and I can see the best in Dylan. My son has made me a better person. He’s my greatest teacher.”
To donate, volunteer, or find out how to qualify go to www.CampHighHopes.com 5804 Correctionville Rd., Sioux City, IA. 712-224-2267. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Life
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f you ask teens sitting in juvenile detention facilities what their life goals are what do you think they’d say?
“I wish I had somebody to show me what to do next.” -Troy, age 13
“I want to go to college and be a graphic designer.” -Mikayla, age 16
Maybe it’s not what you think...
“I want to have my own place and have a good job.” -Carlos, age 17
“I want to have a nice family and be a welder.” -Mason, age 14
One of the ways Siouxland Youth for Christ (YFC) reaches lost 11-19 year old kids who find themselves in trouble is through a partnership with Juvenile Court Services. Through a juvenile referral program, YFC meets with kids to give voice to their dreams and goals, then leads in the process and plan of how they can reach those goals. These kids feel empowered when they have control of their destiny and they strive hard to follow through.
To find out more contact Jason Jackson, (712) 255-9599 or go to www.siouxlandyfc.org.
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Boy in sweatshirt by Dobo Kristian/Shutterstock.com
A key component to long-term success is partnering kids with adults in authentic Christ-sharing relationships, meeting together regularly. THE KIDS NEED YOU.
A family
BETTER / Life
Made with love
The Jackson family welcomes home the newest member from China.
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hat is that one thing that happens that makes someone completely change the course of their life? You don’t know it’s coming, but suddenly it happens and nothing will ever be the same. That’s what happened to the Jackson family. In 2007, Jason and Heather Jackson took a group of high school kids on a mission trip to Jamaica. Jason was the youth pastor with a church in Sheldon, IA. Their project was to work at an orphanage. The orphanage was well run and very loving, but what Heather saw impacted her
deeply. There was one sight she couldn’t shake. “When we walked into the area where they fed the kids, there was a row of high chairs nailed to the wall. It was so institutional feeling and I just knew that high chair had a spot at our table,” Heather said. “That was my breaking point. It was then that we realized that children belong in families.” Not surprisingly, the Jacksons connected strongly with one young boy, Grant, on that trip and they believed it was not by accident. They felt called to adopt, but that feeling would soon come into question. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Life
A family
Made with love
Upon arriving back in the U.S. the Jacksons plans to adopt soon got rattled. Heather found out they were pregnant and a series of complications arose preventing them from adopting Grant in Jamaica. Heather said, “We were really confused what God was doing. We truly felt like we were supposed to adopt but everything stopped.” Jason and Heather returned to work in the orphanage in Jamaica with other families from Sheldon in the summer of 2008. They took with them their two children, Benjamin and Carlee. The kids were pretty little but they remember the trip. Benjamin and Carlee recalled memories of playing with the children, experiencing a different culture, and eating different foods. A healing moment for the Jackson family was being able to meet Grant, the child they hoped to adopt, and his adoptive mom.” Jason said, “We were really trying to discern what we were supposed to do.” As their new baby Jaylee grew, the adoption thoughts were still strong. They realized having four kids already wasn’t deterring their decision. They decided to start moving forward. Heather worked at Bethany Christian Services so she knew the process. Heather explained, “We completed a preliminary application in the fall of 2009 to verify what countries we were eligible to adopt from. After deciding to pursue an adoption from Ethiopia, we completed adoption education on topics such as grief, loss, attachment, bonding, transracial adoption, and talking to our child and others about adoption. We worked through the home study process, and submitted our dossier to Ethiopia in June of 2010. In November of 2010 Bereket was referred to our family and we were so eager to bring him home!” Jason said, “This is definitely the biggest, faith-filled decision ever. You
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start thinking, What will this do to our family? Our culture likes to have all the answers. You just don’t know and you have to wait. We had to be very God centered asking, ‘What do you want us to do?’” Heather said, “We had talked to the kids a lot as we went through the
Top left: Mom Heather meets baby Bereket for the first time in Ethiopia. Above: Daddy and son catch a nap during a layover on the way home. Top right: Big brothers and sisters greet Bereket with matching shirts of Africa. Right: Seven-year-old Benjamin thinks his new brother is pretty great.
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
process. The kids had a photo of him in their room. They couldn’t wait to meet him. Jason and Heather made the long flight to Ethiopia in May of 2011 to bring Bereket home. As they arrived in the Omaha airport, the kids were so excited. Heather said, “The bond
BETTER / Life was instant. Even the kids felt it. It was like he was always part of our family. It went very well.” Bereket means blessing.
“The bond was instant. Even the kids felt it.” So what’s the hard part? Working at Bethany Christian Services for the last 10 years, Heather has seen a lot of different situations. “At the core of adoption is loss. For the child it’s loss of a parent and family. Maybe a loss of culture and country. For the parents adopting they lose out on many of the child’s firsts: first tooth, first steps, first words. There are no baby pictures.” For some who have struggled with infertility, it’s the loss of not having felt that baby kick or the experience of giving birth. “Birth families may also experience a high degree of grief and loss in placing their child for adoption even while they feel it may be the best option at that time for the child.” Heather and Jason don’t ignore
“At the core of adoption is loss.” those loses. “We talk about where Bereket comes from and we always say prayers for the people there. We also celebrate the Ethiopian Christmas which means opening gifts on January 7th.” This year, the Jacksons found themselves thinking about expanding their family once again. They started the adoption process and this time found their son Jingbo in Shanghai, China. He is four years old. Once again, the kids were very excited - including Bereket, who was now the same age as Benjamin was when he welcomed his new brother. As they waited for the plane to arrive, Jaylee told her grandma, “My heart is
going to beat right out of my chest!” The one difference was that Jingo could already talk, but he speaks Mandarin Chinese. Ben was a little worried about that. “I was nervous about how we would talk to him.” But he needn’t have been concerned. Jason said, “Jingbo is learning new words all the time and we are learning his words too. We realized that even when we didn’t understand what he was saying, if we just repeated back
what he said it seemed to be good enough. After a few weeks he knows some basics and his first English
Top: Heather and Jason pick up Jingbo at the orphanage in Shanghai. Above: Jingbo and mommy visit a Shanghai garden. Left: Celebrating at the hotel in the U.S.
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Life
A family
Made with love
phrase was, ‘Wow, that’s cool!’” Carlee wondered what he would want to eat and Madelyn wondered if he’d want to be friends with them. Jingbo fell right into stride as part of the Jackson clan. Jaylee says, “He loves tater tot casserole and corn on the cob!” Heather added, “And french fries! I think french fries must be the universally-loved food.” Bereket says his brother helps him. Mom says that Jingbo has a very good heart and he always makes sure everyone has something to play with. So what’s the big message from Jason and Heather? “All kids deserve to be in a family. There are different ways to respond to a problem, issue, or circumstance and all are needed. Some will donate money, some will pray, some will donate their time, we just happen to adopt.” But, Heather adds, “I believe more people would say yes to adoption if they knew more. There are so many myths about adoption. It’s really just checking into it. Once you understand all your options you can eliminate to get to the right answer.” While Jason and Heather’s story seems pretty great, Heather says, “Our kids fight. Busy and an element of chaos is our norm. Early on I wondered if I had enough time and energy to love each one well, but there is just more love in our home. There is no perfect family. People think they have to be perfect to adopt. It’s just broken people embracing broken people. We’re a stronger family because of adoption.” So are they done adopting? Maddy recently asked that question. Heather thought it was because she was having a hard time with her new brother. Nope. Maddy wondered if they could adopt a sister too. Today, the Jacksons call Sioux City home and Jason works with troubled youth in juvenile detention facilities
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The kids have a great time celebrating Jingbo’s homecoming at the hotel. L to R: Bereket, Carlee with Jingbo, Benjamin, Madalyn, and Jaylee.
“People think they have to be perfect to adopt. It’s just broken people embracing broken people. ” through Youth For Christ. They say they are leaving the adoption door open and are waiting to see if God brings someone else to it. They are open to the idea of more children to love - after all, that’s what their family is made of. Have you ever considered adoption? You can fill out a preliminary form to help you decide if adoption is right for you at
www.bethany.org/adoption/preliminary-application
Go to Bethany Christian Services website for more information at www.bethany.org
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Common Adoption Myths MYTH: You need to be rich to adopt. TRUTH: You just need to be willing to share your life. Some adoptions can be very costly. As a result, there are many programs and organizations that can help with grants, reimbursements, matching funds, low-interest loans, and more. MYTH: A birth parent can reclaim a child after the adoption is complete. TRUTH: Once the parents’ rights have been legally terminated this can’t happen. Adoption is legally binding, finalized after the rights of the parents have been legally terminated. Adoption is rarely challenged in court. MYTH: You won’t love an adopted child as much as a biological child. TRUTH: This is completely false. You can love your adopted child just the same as any biological child. Many considering adoption are influenced by this fear/myth. The love for your children is not about blood-it is about love.
Food
Holiday Appetizers
BETTER
delicious and amazingly simple! We all know Palmer Candy Company, but did you know that inside, back in the corner, there is a cool area know as Palmer Specialty Food? There are unique and interesting items like kitchen gadgets, gifts, and food. Jon Sadler, manager of Palmer, showed us how to create quick and delicious appetizers using some of those products. Oh, yes, they are wonderful!
Thai Chicken Satay
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Fall 2017
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BETTER / Food
Thai Chicken Satay shown on pg 47
Old Farmhouse Chutney Cheeseball
Ingredients: 2 boneless, skinless chicken breasts Wild Thymes Thai Chili cooking sauce 2 T olive oil Salt and pepper 6" wooden skewers Place wooden skewers into a glass of water to soak and start your grill. Slice chicken breasts into thin strips and skewer using kind of a ribbon effect. Lightly salt and pepper and place on the hot grill. They cook fairly fast so turn every couple of minutes until golden. Put one half of the Thai Chili Sauce in a small bowl and add 2 tablespoons of Olive Oil. Microwave the mixture for 30 seconds and stir. When the chicken is almost done, brush the sauce onto both sides. Remove skewers when the sauce starts to caramelize.
Items in blue are available at
Palmer Specialty Foods
Old Farmhouse Chutney Cheeseball
Ingredients: 2 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1/2 cup Stonewall Kitchen Old Farmhouse Chutney 1/4 cup scallion, diced 1 clove garlic, crushed Dash of salt Dash of pepper
1/2 cup Colby cheese, shredded 1/2 cup Monterey Jack cheese, shredded 1/2 cup pecans, chopped 1. Mix together the cream cheese, Old Farmhouse Chutney, scallion, garlic, salt, and pepper. 2. Fold in the Colby and Monterey Jack cheeses. 3. Form the mixture into a ball and roll it into the chopped pecans. Serve with assorted crackers or cruditÊs (that’s veggies)
Olive and Spicy Olive (left) Bruschetta on Crostini 48
Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
BETTER / Food
Palmer Specialty Foods
Meat & cheese board
on our board include:
∙ Widmer 2-yr Cheddar ∙ Prairie Breeze Cheddar ∙ Rustic Bakery Handmade Crackers ∙ Local Wild Hill Honey ∙ Marcona Almonds ∙ a variety of olives ∙ Cutting/Cheese board is handmade in Hornick, Iowa.
Olive and Spicy Olive Bruschetta on Crostini Ingredients: 1 jar Sable and Rosenfeld Olive Bruschetta 1 jar Sable and Rosenfeld Spicy Olive Bruschetta 1 large baguette or 2 small ones Olive oil
Slice bread into 1/4" slices and lay flat on a baking sheet. Brush generously with olive oil. Bake in 3500 oven until lightly toasted. Pour each jar of olive bruschetta into bowls and serve on a platter with the homemade crostini.
sauce on both sides. 5. Pour a little extra sauce into a bowl and serve with the plated shrimp.
Meat & cheese board
This is the fastest appetizer of all and always a big favorite. Start with a nice-looking tray or handmade wood cutting board. To make it a little more special, try adding items your guests maybe haven’t had.
Palmer Specialty Food (located inside Palmer Candy Company) 405 Wesley Parkway, Sioux City, IA 712-258-7790 www.palmerspecialtyfoods.com
Bacon-wrapped grilled shrimp
Bacon-wrapped grilled shrimp
Ingredients: 24 large, raw gulf shrimp 8-12 slices of bacon 1 bottle Fischer and Wieser Mango Ginger Habanero Sauce 1. Peel and devein shrimp. 2. Slice the bacon into 2"-3" pieces. Wrap a piece around the shrimp and hold it together with a toothpick. 3. Place on hot grill, turning occasionally, until bacon is cooked. 4. Right before the bacon is done, brush the Mango Ginger Habanero www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Food
Baking up some tradition Gingerbread cookies WITH JENNIFER WINQUIST
Dark Christmas Cookies Rolled gingerbread cookies
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
If you are short on time, stick to one shape for all the cookies. Making them all the same is an attractive way to present them, especially for gifts or when taking to a holiday get-together. Plus you can decorate them much faster if you are repeating the same look. Gingerbread cookies make a place setting special. Keep it easy or add names and more design and detail.
Christmas tree cookie By ritaphoto/Shutterstock.com; Stars By Bildagentur Zoonar GmbH/Shutterstock.com; Gingerbread man By AnjelikaGr/Shutterstock.com
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very year for Christmas my grandma would make gingerbread cookies. She made gingerbread men for the guys and gingerbread ladies for the girls. She decorated each one and put a person’s name on them, using them as place cards so everyone knew where to sit for Christmas dinner. They were terrible. Okay, not terrible. They tasted fine but they were as hard as a rock. You definitely needed to have a glass of milk or coffee to dunk them in unless you had a tooth you were trying to lose. But, even with the risk to dental health, we all looked forward to our gingerbread cookie. It was a tradition. The funny part was that grandma knew they were hard. Some years they were a little less hard. Maybe she didn’t work the dough as hard. I don’t know why, but as far as I know she always used the same recipe. When my grandma died, my mom gave each of us a copy of the recipe and a cookie cutter. My cousin has made grandma’s cookies and brings them on Christmas now and again. We all smile. My mother and I actually found an edible, delicious, gingerbread cookie that we began making. I can only make these on Christmas because I have to eat them...ALL OF THEM! I’m sharing the recipe here but I warn you - they are addicting! Bake them at your own risk...to your waistline.
Ingredients: 2 1/2 c flour 1/2 t salt 1/2 t baking soda 1/2 t nutmeg 1/4 c sugar Frosting: 1 t cinnamon 1/3 c molasses Powdered sugar 1/4 t allspice 1/2 c butter Milk or water 1 T ginger 1/3 c brown sugar Food coloring (optional) 1. Sift flour, spices, salt, and granulated sugar together. 2. Heat molasses to boiling. Remove from heat and add butter, brown sugar, and butter, stirring until butter is melted. Stir in baking soda. 3. Pour molasses mixture over flour mixture. Stir together with a spoon until incorporated. Add the egg and use your hands to knead it into the dough until it all holds together. Chill (Note: It is best to chill for no more than an hour. Otherwise it will get so hard you won’t be able to work with it...until it warms back up a bit.) 4. Roll a section of the dough out on a floured surface to 1/8" to 1/4" thick. Cut into shapes and bake @3500F for 8-10 min. Frost and decorate (below). Makes about 6 doz. Frosting: Simply stir in a little milk or water to powdered sugar until you have the thickness of frosting you like. Add food coloring if you want. Frost and eat!!!
All images byShutterstock.com: Eggnog (top) By Ildi Papp; Carmel drizzle By Arina P Habich; Recipe By catary ; W/candy canes By Julia Metkalova ; w/ cinnamon stick By K2 PhotoStudio; Banana bowl Keep Smiling Photography; Banana bread By Marina Meshkova
Sip some holiday cheer Whip up a delicious eggnog
BETTER / Food
Dealing with excess
When there’s too much of a good thing
Q&A Food
Q. I have too many bananas. What’s a guy to do?
I
t seems while eggnog is a rich and creamy holiday drink, people think it’s something you either love or hate. That seems peculiar since it’s made up of a combination of raw eggs, milk, and sugar - which is the same basic components as ice cream. If you’ve never tried it, give it a sip this year. We’ve included a recipe below. If you don’t do alcohol, you can make it without the bourbon and it is even more like ice cream! If you’re adventurous, try adding different flavorings like pumpkin or hazelnut and substitute soy or almond milk. Cheers!
Make it your own Put whipped cream on top or don’t. Top with nutmeg, crushed candy canes, a dash of cinnamon, or even a drizzle of caramel. Add a cinnamon stick for stirring or a candy cane.
A. When life gives you [too many] bananas, make banana bread. We get it. You bought plenty because you know how good they are for you and your family. The magnesium alone can aid in increasing lean muscle mass, help muscles relax and contract, and release fat stores. Plus their packed with potassium. The FDA reports that diets low in sodium and high in potassium are associated with the lowest blood pressure levels and lowest frequency of stroke around. They’ve got lots of other health benefits but they’re starting to turn black on the counter. Don’t despair, they don’t need to go to waste. Freeze them. With peelings in tact, move from counter into freezer. Yep, that’s it. Keep them in there until a few hours before needed. Use them. Not going to lie. When you thaw out frozen bananas they will be disgusting looking. The peelings will be totally black and the banana will be mush. This is perfect however for making banana bread or putting them into a smoothie or energy shake. Yum!
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Food
[
Food focus
Wild turkeys sleep in trees away from predators — this is natural roosting behavior that even domesticated turkeys will try to do.
Terrific Turkey
Believe it or not, the wild turkey was nearly hunted to extinction in the early 1900s. Restoration programs across North America have brought the numbers up to several million today. That number doesn’t account for the birds raised on turkey farms that most of us eat on Thanksgiving.
That dangly appendage hanging down the turkey’s face is called a snood. The wattle is the red thingy under its chin.
Turkey facts
White or dark meat?
Did you know that wild turkeys have more dark meat than domestic turkeys? According to a Fox News article, whether meat is white or dark is all about muscle. Meat is muscle. Muscles that are used most, like those in drumsticks (legs), have more myoglobin - a component in blood that makes meat dark. Domestic turkeys don’t use their breast muscles much, which is why their breast meat is white. Wild turkey is much different resulting in more dark meat.
Turkey fajitas so easy!
Turkey leftovers you’ll love
If you have a lot of turkey to use up try something completely different that everyone will love - and that will get you out of the kitchen fast. Ingredients: 2 T Olive oil, divided Cooked turkey cut into strips Low-sodium taco seasoning mix Green, red, and orange sweet peppers, julienned Tortilla shells Onions, sliced Salsa & Shredded cheese Directions: Drizzle 1 T olive oil into two skillets. When oil is hot, add peppers and onions and saute until tender. In the other pan, add turkey and sprinkle with taco seasoning mix. Pour 1/2 c of water over and cook until hot. Add turkey and veggies into tortilla shells and top with salsa and cheese if you like.
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
All images Shutterstock.com: Turkey couple By Paul Tessier; Turkey inset By Miraleks; Drumstick By Tatyana Malova; Fajita By from my point of view
• Male turkeys are called “gobblers,” after the “gobble” call they make to announce themselves. Females are just called hens. • On average an adult gobbler weighs 16 to 22 pounds. A hen gets to about half that size. • Turkeys can run up to 25 mph and can fly at 55 mph. • According to the Smithsonian, Ben Franklin never suggested the turkey be our national bird but he did once praise it as “being a more respectable bird than the bald eagle.”
Set a festive table
BETTER / Food
By AnjelikaGr/Shutterstock.com
Company’s coming so
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aving guests over for the holiday and want to make it special? Not everyone has china these days - or even a set of “good dishes.” Instead of opting for the paper holiday ware, take a trip to a secondhand store - there are lots in Siouxland. You can often find
both stemware, silverware, and nice plates for next to nothing. We bought a set of 10 really nice white plates for 50 cents each! Check out a few ideas on the following pages for how you can use simple white dishes and a few other things to set up a for a festive holiday meal. www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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BETTER / Food
Center of attention
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Being Better in Siouxland magazine / Nov/Dec 2017
Play up each place
Taking a regular old place setting from normal to cheerful takes just a couple of accents. Tie a ribbon around the silverware and add a little embellishment like a name tag, acorn, or a cookie.
Jar of bells By Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com; blue tablesetting By Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com; Lantern By AnjelikaG/Shutterstock.com;
Having a centerpiece is a great way to have one bigger, festive, focal point that sets the theme for the table. Keep in mind that people on opposite sides of the table would like to see each other. Try to keep things low enough, or see-through, so people don’t feel like there’s a wall erected. Fill a big, glass canister with various size sleigh bells or ornaments - or, put them on a tiered plate. If it’s not too much temptation, you can arrange all your holiday cookies and candies to display as your centerpiece. You may have to run interference with four-yearolds...and that one 40-year-old. You’re picturing him in your mind right now, aren’t you? Choosing all metallic tones or just two colors in various shades keeps things simple and classy. Don’t forget to add some warmth with tall candle sticks or a string of white lights. For a more country or rustic look, arrange evergreen branches and pine cones down the center of the table and add old timey lanterns or candle
jars to give a cozy glow. Throw in some whimsical nutcrackers or nativity figures to add some interest.
BETTER / Food
White berries By Africa Studio/Shutterstock.com; Brown tag By rawf8/Shutterstock.com; Honey plate By Catalina M/Shutterstock.com
Napkins can be simple white to add another texture or give a pop of color. Roll up a cloth napkin, slip through a napkin ring and tuck in a sprig of berries and greens. If gift giving is later on the schedule of the evening’s events, adding a small gift to place settings makes everyone smile. This can go a long way to keeping kids at the table. The jar of honey is a good gift for an adult...not so much for a kid. Maybe try a little red car or a festive bracelet.
www.beingbettermagazine.com / Nov/Dec 2017
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