B woman magazine december 2013 issuu

December 2013

Anjali Sunita

founder of

Baltimore Yoga Village

Holiday Love Reflecting on the Stage of Your Relationship

magazine SEASONAL Trends Fashion Tips from an Image Consultant Host the

Most Memorable

New Year’s Eve Dinner Party

Let’s Grow Old Together.

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B Woman Magazine / December 2013

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B Woman Magazine / December 2013

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CONTENTS 3 Letter from the Editor 9 Finances 10 Spotlight 12 Inspiration 14 Fashion 16 Parenting 18 Relationships 20 Taxes 24 Real Estate 26 Wellness 28 Hello Diva 30 Event Planning 32 Giving 33 Wellness 34 Tie the Knot 38 Happenings

06 COVER STORY Founder of Baltimore Yoga Village, Anjali Sunita, shares her passion of yoga with every aspect of mindful living

Learn the Benefits of Indulging in Massage

Hello Diva!

Baltimore Woman Magazine’s Monthly Girl Talk Column

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Fashion Tips from an Image Consultant

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B Woman Magazine / December 2013

Host the Most Memorable New Year’s Eve Dinner Party

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Letter from the EDITOR

As

this year comes to a close, I am thrilled to finish even stronger than we began. Being a magazine that has only been around since August, I cannot wait to see what the new year holds. Although Thanksgiving has come and went, we will continue to celebrate every month just how thankful we are to have such wonderful women and men that pour their hearts and soul into Baltimore’s Woman Magazine. Even though B Woman Magazine is a publication for women, there are so many men who live their lives with a mission of helping women to be more successful, and enhance our beauty inside and out.

This issue, we will officially introduce our Creative Team to the growing family of B Woman Magazine. Titorian Richardson, Creative Director and Photographer has made it possible to have this team and for us to showcase the beauty and intelligence of real women here in Baltimore. He has brought with him, a remarkable team who all share the same goal of making every woman feel and look more beautiful than they already are: Makeup Artist Ari Santiago Lewis, Makeup Artist Schnelle Jefferson and Hair Stylist Krystal Morant. This issue will highlight all of their incredible talents and they are all wonderful additions to the B Woman Magazine family. I am so very thankful for all their hard work and efforts to make Baltimore’s Woman Magazine even more marvelous than it has ever been!

In addition to our fantastic Creative Team, we have also picked up a few columnists who will write for us each and every month. K. Lee Rice will host her Hello Diva Column each month where she’ll answer your questions, inspire you and allow us to indulge in some real Girl Talk. Dave Elliott also joins our team as our Relationship Expert, who brings with him his personal experience, raw creativity, exceptional training and passion to serve to help women create A Legendary Love for Life. Judy Pressman, a certified Image Consultant, shares with us her 28 years of experience on how she transforms anyone’s looks to enhance their best features. Heather Shreve also continues her astounding series on how to find individual wellness.

I could never ask for a more amazing group of people to have on my team. I look forward to the much success that our past, current and future team will bring! Have a safe and blessed holiday and may you find victory in all that you do!

@BWomanMagazine Izis, a premiere Photographer in the Baltimore area, has an exceptional ability to bring out the natural beauty of the client. Whether you desire a shoot for Fashion, Wedding, Bedroom, Engagement, Expecting or Beyond, Izis offers outstanding work for a very reasonable price.

Titorian is an excellent photographer with a great vision! - Sandy R. Baltimore

www.IZIS-Online.com 443.898.2112 izisonline@gmail.com IZIS Inc.

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Inspiring you to live your life with your eyes and heart wide open – a true authentic life.

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Publisher & Editor in Chief BETH KURTZ Creative Director Titorian Richardson: Photographer Creative Team Ari Santiago Lewis: Makeup Artist Schnelle Jefferson: Makeup Artist Krystal Morant: Hair Stylist Titorian Richardson for IZIS Inc. www.izisonline.com Ari Santiago Lewis for Airbrush Makeup by Ariel www.ariellewis.com Schnelle Jefferson for Glam Elise Cosmetics www.glamelisecosmetics.com Krystal Morant for Bridal Beauty Associates www.bridalbeautytogo.com

Contributing Writers

Titorian Richardson for IZIS Inc. (Cover, 2, 4-11, 20-23, 26), Val Englert (2, 24-25), Harriet Dopkin (21), Maria Linz Photography (28-29), and Charles Martin (30).

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Maria James, Anne Kurtz, Dave Elliott, Suzann D. Medicus, Jennifer Bayne, Glenn Ferrugiari, Harriet Dopkin, K. Lee Rice, Val Englert, and Heather P. Shreve.

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• Federal Career Coach (CFCC)

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From Shut­terstock: Syda Productions (5), Goodluz (14, 18), michaeljung (16), and Andy Dean Photography (27).

From iStock: ValuaVitaly (12).

Advertising Inquiries Contact Beth: info@BWomanMagazine.com Subscribe www.BWomanMagazine.com/Subscribe Free Distribution for Businesses www.BWomanMagazine.com/Distribution Copyright 2013 by B Woman Magazine, owned by B Woman Magazine LLC. All rights reserved. B Woman Magazine is published monthly and is distributed to businesses all over the Baltimore Metropolitan area. B WOMAN Magazine and its affiliates, contributors, writers, editor, and publisher accepts no responsibility for inaccuracies, errors or omissions with information and/or advertisements contained herein. The publisher has neither investigated nor endorsed companies and/or products that advertise in the publication or that are mentioned editorially. The publisher assumes no responsibility for the claims made by the advertisers or the merits of their respective products or services advertised or promoted in B WOMAN Magazine. The publisher does not assume liability for any damages whatsoever that may be suffered by any purchaser or user for any product or services advertised or mentioned editorially herein. Opinions expressed in the magazine and/or its advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher.

FINANCES

Staying Financially Fit During the Holidays Written By Maria James

I

t’s the end of the year and the holidays are in full swing. Holidays usually signal the time of year when you get more time off of work (for most) and get to see friends and family you may not get to see as often. People are generally in a good mood as they prepare for holiday traditions and celebrations, as well as gifts for loved ones.

Planning for the holidays can be exciting, but at the same time it can be very expensive.

The larger your circle of family and friends, the more you probably spend around the holidays. Once gifts, decorations and ingredients for those specialty dishes are included, the overall holiday “price tag” can be pretty hefty. Let’s dive into five tips that will help you be a thrifty shopper and leave you financially fit for 2014.

1) Make a list. Write down holiday related items that you must purchase, include decorations and gifts.

Also be sure to include items for yourself on the list. Next to each item write down the known or expected cost of the item. Take it with you when you go

shopping and have it next to you when shopping online. The list will give you a much more accurate picture of how much you plan to spend and it will help you stay within the amount you allotted for holiday related items. Your allotted amount or holiday budget should be no more than 20% of your take-home pay for that specific month, unless you saved up beforehand. The list will also be a great way to watch out for deals. If you know how much the item normally costs then you know a really good deal when you see it.

2) Shop now. The best option to cut costs on holiday items is to shop all year round. You can take your time and take advantage of the best deals as you see them. A great time to purchase decorations is directly after a holiday. Stores will mark down items by up to 80% in order to get rid of their inventory. Purchase timeless objects and items that fit into any themes you have planned for the following year. However, if you still

have a lot to buy as the holidays draw near tools, wedding dresses and wedding items as well as toys are some of the best items to purchase in November and December.

3) Take advantage of free shipping. Close to the holiday season some online stores offer free shipping and guaranteed delivery by the holiday.

You must complete your orders by specific dates in order to be...

Continues on Page 9

Luxuriously styled Meticulously planned.

Melissa Easterling, Owner • Brooklandville, MD • 443-927-7143 • easterlingevents.com

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Anjali Sunita

Founder of

Baltimore Yoga Village

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B Woman Magazine / December 2013

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njali Sunita has been studying yoga philosophy, North Indian classical chanting, deep breathing techniques, postures, and meditation ceaselessly for the past 13 years and has taught in India, Canada, and the United States in ashrams, private and public schools, embassies, yoga studios, and private homes since 2005. She is the founder of Baltimore Yoga Village and Director of Jivan Yoga Teacher Training. Her recent training includes a trip to Mexico, where she became certified to teach AcroYoga.

“I have always been a student of life. Although I fought going to school, I have always had a deep desire for learning when the knowledge could be applied in service to myself and others,” says Anjali.

A native of Southwest Baltimore, Anjali was blessed with a rich family life and traveled to Europe and India from an early age. “At the age of 9, I witnessed the Berlin Wall coming down while traveling with my, mother, uncle, and brother in Europe and got to sit on the wall with a pick and hammer chipping away. I saw the difference between East and West Berlin and felt that chasm deep in my soul. I fell in love with the street performers throughout Europe and have fond memories of putting on my cutest face while passing around their hats coaxing passer- by to donate to the artists. I developed a desire to be an artist and have always felt a sense of altruism towards artists and those systematically oppressed.

When I returned home, I began dance and theater classes at Columbia School for Theatrical Arts and quickly advanced to the advanced high school level classes by age of 11,” as she recalls the beginning of it all.

Anjali’s trips to India as a young teen allowed her to find a new meaning to life. “Traveling in India at that age was very transformative for me. I saw how people live and adapt to a wide variety of circumstances. I saw how people live with less material wealth but with joy and peace.”

Anjali met her first “yoga teacher” while finding herself going through rough periods in high school. “The vastly different perspectives of my multinational home life versus the private school life led to some feelings of isolation in school and a deep desire to learn outside the box and to

SPOTLIGHT

find a greater sense of purpose and service in the world.”

Michael Mcnulty was her theater teacher and he would encourage her to “dig deeper in the garden”, on a journey inward. “We studied breath, voice, movement, and maskwork. We studied what it meant to be human.”

While at college, Anjali found her biggest inspiration from Guruji Hasu Patel, “who taught me about breathing, chakras, the healing power of Hindustani music, and most of all to follow my dreams and never to give up under any circumstances.”

A few years after college, she was drawn to the Sivananda Yoga Vedanta Dhanwantari Ashram in South India where she studied under two brilliant teachers.

“I had originally intended to stay for only a month, enough time to get a certificate, but the real transformation came through living in the ashram. The Sivananda organization became a deeply engrained and rooted aspect of my life.”

After returning to Baltimore, Anjali only planned on continuing to study music and yoga and share these peaceful ways of life everywhere that she got the opportunity. Then opportunities of teaching yoga in undeserved public schools, and teaching in studios, wellness centers, and private homes, would eventually lead her to take over the Ahimsa Yoga Center.

She reflects on her journey of finding happiness: “Over the past 15 years, life has transformed from a glum search for meaning into the most joyful and rich experience of self-study and service. I am forever grateful for the many big obstacles, mistakes, and the many lessons that pushed me through to this point. It brings me great joy to create a program that integrates the teachings of yoga with every aspect of mindful living.”

Anjali encourages all to find the same happiness as she did. Her teacher’s teacher, Swami Vishnu Devananda came up with these five main points of yoga as a lifestyle practice: 1. Proper Exercises: Yoga Asanas are steady comfortable postures, where at first we are concerned with creating more strength and flexibility. These postures refined and practiced traditionally with good alignment also increase circulation to organs in the body and calm the nervous system.

2. Proper Breathing: Yogic breathing techniques gradually expand the lung capacity. Specific techniques are used either to calm, energize, or balance the body and mind. They are frequently taught in traditional hatha yoga and therapeutic yoga classes.

3. Proper Relaxation: Relaxation refers not only to the physical body but also to the mind. Different from sleep where the mind can be in an active state, guided relaxation techniques offered during everyone’s favorite rest posture “savasana” are offered to bring both body and mind to a stiller, calmer state.

4. Proper Diet: Yogis experiment with food to find the ultimate diet that supports their efficiency in work and service. The great Swami Sivananda of Rishikesh, India was often quoted as saying “eat to live, don’t live to eat”.

5. Positive Thinking/Meditation: We all know that our thoughts hold power and that we can directly affect our energy level by harboring draining thoughts or by focusing on something pleasant. Yogis learn to observe thought patterns through meditation and to unlearn patterns of thinking that zap one’s emotional energy. Simple mediation classes are easily accessible to anyone no matter what age, physical shape, religion, or culture.

At Baltimore Yoga Village, we work to provide opportunities to explore all of these five points and to make them easily accessible to all levels of experience. ■

Sheri Gelvar

An Everyday Mother Becomes an Inspiration to us all after her Son’s Diagnosis with Crohn’s Disease

until Jake’s diagnosis. I can give Jake credit for the strength I now possess for all that he has taught me and shared with the rest of our family.

To paraphrase Walt Disney, “Our greatest natural resource is the minds of our children.”

What are some of Jake’s interests?

Jake comes from who he is from the very depth of his soul. Whether it be music, art, making a computer jump through hoops or running his heart out on a soccer field, wrestling in a gymnasium or being the best sibling he can be to his brother and sister.

These are parts of what make him an amazing well-rounded young man.

Jake also has a strong sense and pride for philanthropy. He created and developed a philanthropic fund called Jokes For Jake! He is also invoked with Team Challenge - the CCFA’s endurance training and fundraising program.

How old was Jake when he was diagnosed?

Jake was 11 years old (October 2006).

S

heri Gelvar, an event planner, and mother to her precious son Jake, never knew that she would be caring for a child diagnosed with Crohn’s disease, a debilitating illness that causes persistent diarrhea, rectal bleeding, cramps, pain and constipation. The emotional pain of seeing her son suffer gave her the motivation to fight for change and bring awareness to the cause. Sheri is an inspiration to us all, volunteering as much as she can to help her son and raise money for the CCFA (Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation of America). She and her husband have raised an enormous $40,000 through their participation in the CCFA’s Team Challenge 1/2 Marathon program. We got to hear first hand how Sheri’s efforts have created a better life for her and her family.

Tell us about you and your son.

Jake is a warm, inviting and easy going young man.

He teaches us all how to be more accepting and more compassionate. He is fortunate to possess a temperament that allows him and us to expect nothing but a positive outcome.

Each challenge is greeted with a strong resolve to move forward.

Currently, I am a 49-year-old mother of three. Life was moving along and living my life while raising my children 12

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

What were the signs and symptoms that you saw in your son?

Jake presented with chronic joint pain. He had traveled through Europe that summer and when he returned we noticed his gate and lower body strength were off. We also noticed his loss of appetite and within 2 short weeks he lost 20 pounds.

From that point on it was a rapid decline with many doctors and many misdiagnoses. For six very long months while Jake was not able to attend school, we searched for the answers to his declining health. These six months left him completely weak and wheelchair bound.

After many tears and many frustrating hours we finally had our answer.... Crohn’s Disease, Colitis and Enteropathic Arthritis (arthritis caused from an inflammatory bowel disease).

My life before this was one of a busy Event Planner.

My company, rsvp, was fortunate to be growing very quickly when Jake was diagnosed. Little did I know that my strength with detail was going to be instrumental in helping me move forward with Jake on the medical front.

All aspects of my life, both personal and professional now depended on my said attention to detail.

What do you find most challenging about raising a child with Crohn’s?

Awareness is key! People’s ignorance!! Only 30% of this country knows about Crohn’s and what the CCFA is and a fraction of that amount knows what the CCFA offers.

Just when you know and all the pieces are in place, the silence of the disease brings a new day. (Sometimes things are never the same).

How did it change your life?

It’s been 7 years since Jake was diagnosed. Crohn’s is a part of our family’s life.

INSPIRATION

and many frustrating insurance issues.

So are my worries always medically based? No! There are day to day frustrations and definite worries about how many more forms do I have to fill out, what new doctors do I need to find and having the rest of my family to care for.

What advice can you give to other parents raising a child with Crohn’s?

I would encourage other parents to speak to other parents and only attempt to collect as much information at any particular time that they can handle. There is always more information available when your heart and mind have time to digest where you are.

Yes life goes on and we are very fortunate we have an amazing team of doctors that support us in every way with Jake. Crohn’s is a silent disease. Jake may look great but without any warning his life can be turned upside down. It could be a Crohn’s or colitis flare, a complication with his arthritis that is caused from his Crohn’s, an allergic reaction to any of his medications, a cardiac episode or simply the worry of not finding a bathroom fast enough.

Then, with each new twist and turn, like going away to college and needing to find new doctors, getting used to new clinical surroundings, you still need to deal with the new

Is there anything else important to you and your family you would like to share?

Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. It’s okay!! Not all situations may be positive, but use what you can!! Asking is NOT a sign of weakness.

CCFA and Team Challenge have been an enormous part of our lives since Jake’s diagnosis. Without fundraising and research we have fewer answers and less options. With funding and research our lives can continue on what is a more normal and steady path. My motto .... “Research is expensive BUT a cure is priceless!” ■

There are several ways you can help make a difference in their lives. Through monetary donations or by volunteering your time and skills, you can make a significant and lasting impact on CCFA’s mission-critical research, education, and support programs. Today, more than 1.4 million Americans suffer from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis—collectively known as inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD). The causes of IBD are still unknown and despite continual development of promising new treatments, we still don’t have cures. To find out how you can help, visit www.ccfa.org

Staying Financially Fit...Continued from Page 5 certain they will arrive in time. Online outlets that offer free shipping include Amazon, PayPal, ShopRunner etc. Check your preferred shopping sites and see what they offer. Make sure to note any deadlines for the free shipping so you can get your order in on time.

4) Gift a service. Instead of going into a store and purchasing items, gift a promise to provide a service for free.

Offer to babysit for an evening or weekend to give the parents some adult only time. Do you have friends with furry or feathered companions? Offer to pet sit when they head out of town. I had a friend pet sit my parrot for a few days when I went out of town and it was a fabulous gift. I knew she was with someone I trusted and was being given the utmost care, I left instructions of course. Think about what services your friend or family would truly value. If you know a friend is dying to get out of town and you can’t send her (for most of us

that would use up our entire holiday budget), offer to babysit, house sit, etc. You can design a fancy gift certificate on the computer and present it in a specialty envelope or holiday bag. Get creative with it.

5) Don’t use credit cards. If you’re running low on cash or there are just a few items that you really feel you need, but are outside of your budget then you may be highly tempted to use a credit card. It’s so easy and convenient to just swipe that little rectangular piece of plastic. However, resist! Don’t use your credit card! Remember it’s the gift and kindness that counts, not the price tag. Use the money and the resources that you have available to you in order to create and purchase gifts. Be creative.

Avoid the feelings of guilt and the debt that accompanies overspending during the holidays. These tips will allow you to be a smart and thrifty shopper while getting everything you need for the holidays. Avoid accumulating more debt and be well prepared to start 2014 with your finances intact. ■

Maria James has expertise with designing income management, debt management, and wealth protocols to help you keep more money in your pocket. Graduate school allowed her to further develop strategic planning and scientific analytical thinking and apply those methods to money management. The Money Scientist was born. Maria hosts webinars, speaks, blogs, and writes articles to educate and empower you about money. You can reach her at info@pocketofmoney.com.

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Judy Pressman

Q&A with

Image Consultant Expert

J

udy Pressman is a certified Image Consultant with twenty-eight years of experience in the Baltimore-Washington area. She has transformed thousands of men and women, both individually and through her seminars. Judy trained with Robert Ponte the Internationally known fashion consultant and legendary pioneer in the industry.

Judy truly loves what she does, and as an artist, she has an incredible eye for fashion and for what will enhance her client’s best features. She also has the ability to totally reinvent a client’s image if that is what they are looking for.

Judy’s favorite days are spent shopping with clients, whether it is for a whole new wardrobe or to add key items to an existing closet.

Her work is based on the concept that personal style can be a vehicle to greater success, satisfaction and prosperity. Judy has found that when someone makes an investment in their personal style, whether it is time or updating their wardrobe, it enhances their self-esteem.

Below, Judy provides some fantastic Q&A for this holiday seasons most fashionable trends.

1. What are some of the biggest trends in fashion for the upcoming holiday season?

Right now, tuxedo suits are very popular – a look any woman with confidence can pull off. The world is also mixing a lot of different textures within the same look: wool, velvet and sequence. Lace or textured pants are very popular.

You can mix these fabrics and textures by incorporating one into your top and one into your pants. It’s a hot trend you can easily pull off this look this holiday season. Designer 14

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

Fashion Trends of the Season “Save the Queen” has a lot of pieces that follow this trend and really work well together.

2. What is your top style advice when it comes to dressing up for this year’s holiday socials?

My main advice is to incorporate your style and your figure with your look. All clothing is not made for the same body types. You should keep this in mind when you are shopping for your ultimate holiday outfit. With the mixing of so many textures this year, you can get away with a lot, but you don’t want to overdo it. Buy one or two different textures and mix it up to keep a sophisticated look at your holiday outings.

3. How do you dress up for the holidays without looking too much like you’re wearing a costume?

Keep in mind that you don’t have to dress like you’re going to a costume party. You can wear holiday colors without over doing it. Winter white with a touch of gold is very chic. You can always mix your look with metallic’s to add accent. You want to minimize the glitz and keep an elegant and sophisticated look.

4. Are there style rules they should be aware of when they’re wearing such bold, shimmery pieces?

When you wear bold and shimmery pieces, you want them to stand out. You must first choose what you want to accent. Do you want to wear a sequence top? Then minimize the jewelry. Do you have a plain dress? Then highlight it with a bold piece of jewelry or wear shiny shoes. You want to minimize one to maximize the other. This creates a sophisticated look without overdoing it.

FASHION

5. Is it okay for women to use fun Christmas accessories to add a little extra glam to their look?

If you choose to use Christmas accessories to add to your look, do it in a small, subtle way. You do not want to put huge, overwhelming earrings in that scream “It’s Christmas!” If you’re going to wear a Christmas outfit, there has to be a purpose, for example, a crazy sweater contest. My best advice is to refrain from overbearing accessories, and keep it sophisticated. Show your holiday spirit through your cheerful personality and your outfit will do all the rest. ■

Want more expert advice from Judy? She provides one on one services for finding the perfect outfit, closet fashion clean-out, creating a whole new look, and sprucing up your existing wardrobe with a few key items. Judy’s presentations are lively, energetic and filled with practical insights into how individuals can express their unique personalities and understand the role that appearance plays in achieving goals. www.JudyPressman.com

B Woman Magazine Wishes you a Happy Holiday

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Benefits of Breastfeeding The Truth about Breastfeeding

Written by Anne

W

hen my husband and I found out I was pregnant with our first child, we immediately decided to breastfeed. After some classes and light reading, I was left with the impression that breastfeeding was natural, easy, and pain-free. Boy was I wrong. In fact, breastfeeding was the most physically, emotionally, and mentally challenging thing I have done in my life!

My goal here is not to dissuade anyone from breastfeeding. Rather, I want to empower new mothers with the knowledge of potential obstacles based on my own experience. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends exclusively breastfeeding for a child’s first 6 months because of the many benefits for both mother and baby1. However, the Center for Disease Control (CDC) reports that in the US only 16.4 percent of infants born in 2010 were exclusively breastfed for the same time period2. I believe one reason is that new mothers may not be given a correct expectation when it comes to breastfeeding, as was my case.

Let’s start at the beginning: the birth. I was fortunate to have an entirely natural birth (perfect conditions for breastfeeding) with immediate skin-toskin contact, and I tried to encourage my son to latch on during his first hour of life, but no success. Rooming-in together, I still didn’t make any progress until my nurse showed me how to express some colostrum 16

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

Kurtz

and rub it on his lips. That perked his interest and he finally latched on!

However, at home the first week was miserable for all of us. My son was crying almost all the time, no one (mom, dad, or baby) was getting any sleep, and I was breastfeeding 20 times a day (yes, once an hour).

And worst of all, my nipples were so sore that I cringed in pain during every latch. I loved my son dearly but I was beginning to hate breastfeeding. I can’t count how many times I wanted to quit.

During this time, we were seeing a Lactation Consultant (LC) because my son wasn’t regaining his birth weight quickly enough. His latch was perfect, but despite our efforts, I wasn’t producing the minimum amount of milk per feeding he needed. I tried everything she suggested: pumping after feedings, fenugreek, and even oatmeal. On day 10 we saw some progress. At the next weigh in with the LC, I almost doubled my son’s milk intake.

But the LC said this still wasn’t enough. And then she said the words I didn’t want to hear: we had to supplement with formula. I cried on the way home that day as I realized that my son had been hungry this entire time and I didn’t have enough milk to nourish him. I felt like a failure as a mother.

After my bout of despair, I realized formula was my savior. I could finally take a break and get some sleep, but most importantly, it meant my son would

PARENTING

no longer be hungry. It also gave dad a chance to get involved during feeding time.

I was still determined to exclusively breastfeed and fearful of losing my precious milk supply, so I started a rigorous cycle of nurse-bottle-pump. In some cases, I would just nurse again instead of pumping. I always nursed 30 minutes before any bottles and only gave 1-1.5 oz of formula or pumped breastmilk per feeding as recommended by the LC for our situation.

In total, I was giving about 7-8 oz of formula and the meager 1-2 oz of breastmilk I pumped each day. My son was now gaining weight at a healthy pace.

During week 5, I finally started to see some results. My son was no longer interested in the bottles after the morning feeds. Week 6, we decided to stop supplementing entirely (as approved by the LC) except for a single bottle before bed so everyone could get some sleep. I was almost to my goal of 8 weeks. Then week 7, I finally saw my son satisfied after every meal and we eliminated the last bottle. Eureka! I made it to week 8 (though still feeding 16 times a day) and was even pumping a little extra for my return to work.

Now at four months in, I can finally say that I enjoy the special bond of breastfeeding with my son.

There are still painful moments (when he pulls my nipple in distraction) and sleepless nights (where I cry I’m so tired), but they are few and far between. So to any mother who has the opportunity to breastfeed her child, I highly recommend it if she can, but be aware that there may be bumps along the way. I also recommend finding a supportive partner, as I couldn’t have done it without my husband. ■

Benefits of Breastfeeding

Mother • Decreased risk of breast and ovarian cancers • Faster return to pre-pregnancy weight • Saves time and money Baby • Better immunities and fewer doctor’s visits • Increased IQ • Decreased childhood obesity

Anne describes her breastfeeding experience as a new mother. For more information, she recommends additional references including the AAP and CDC and support groups such as Breastfeeding USA. http://pediatrics.aappublications.org/content/129/3/e827 http://www.cdc.gov/breastfeeding/pdf/2013BreastfeedingReportCard.pdf

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17

Holiday Love Written by Dave Elliott

Reflecting On Your Relationships And Planning For The Future

A

lthough it was not at all planned, I couldn’t have picked a better time for my debut column as the brand new Relationships Columnist in B Woman Magazine. That’s because during the holiday season, we pause for reflection and look back on the passing year. We take stock of where we are in our lives. We pause for gratitude toward what’s great...and we can’t help but notice what could use some improvement. For those who are in a good place, there is joy and festivity all around us. For those who are not in a good place, that same festive atmosphere only serves to make the holidays an even more painful reminder of what’s missing.

As long as we’re entering this season of reflection, let me give you some good news. No matter where you are right now in the state of your relationships, it is possible to improve the quality of every single relationship in your life. While that may seem like a lofty goal for some, the first step is simply acknowledging where you are right now and being totally honest about it. You have the power to absolutely shift and forever change anything in the moment if you just get honest about it.

18

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

Believe it or not, it is possible to create a massive shift in the quality of your most important relationships. I’m talking about your relationship with your partner, with your family, with your friends...and, probably most importantly, with yourself. Let’s face it. In many respects, the quality of your life is synonymous with the quality of your relationships. You can be doing great in your career, enjoying outstanding health, and earning millions but if your relationships are a mess, you will be in pain...and that’s not a theory...that’s real-life.

Since the holidays are perfect time for reflection, you need to get clear on exactly where you are in the state of your relationships. As long as you are honest, anything can be shifted for the better. All you need to know is where you are right now and where you want to be...from this place, huge shifts are possible.

So what stage is your relationship in right now?

Not in a relationship & don’t want one

This is perfectly fine and whatever choice you make is the one that’s right for you – especially if it

RELATIONSHIPS

comes with an empowered “yes” or “no.” The only possible downfall to this position is that it’s often a choice born of pain, frustration and fear...not exactly a great starting point for an exceptional life. If you want to turn that around, it’s important to clear up some of those disempowering beliefs or misperceptions you may have if you really want to improve your quality of life.

Not in a relationship & want one

Many of us want a relationship, but don’t know where to begin. It’s important to stay hopeful, but also use tried and true strategies that not only bring out the very best in you, but they’re also very attractive to potential partners.

In a relationship that has room for improvement This may be one of the largest categories that people fall in to. The best advice is to focus more on the solution or what you really want, rather than a laser-focus on what’s wrong. Quite simply, where focus goes, energy flows.

In a relationship that keeps getting better all the time This may be the absolute best of all the positions – and it’s also probably the rarest. If you find yourself in this position, you already know the incredible game-changing properties of simple gratitude.

In a relationship and planning your escape It’s absolutely fair to say that some relationships simply don’t work and you have to let go of what you have in order to accept something better. However, even if you leave a problem relationship, you take you with you and oftentimes, the same habits, beliefs and strategies that wrecked your previous relationships doom the new ones. However, by using the right strategies in improving yourself, you’ll automatically create a shift in your partner as well.

No matter where you are right now, it’s absolutely possible to have what I like to call a Legendary Love For Life if you wish. I hope this column helped you get clear on where you are now and where you want to be. Later, we’ll begin working on what you want to create. I promise you...miracles do happen...

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19

It’s That Time of Year

Are You Ready for

Tax Season?

Written By Suzann D. Medicus, CPA

Okay,

it’s the Holiday season. There’s always so much to do, and WHATEVER holiday you celebrate, this always seems to be such a busy busy time of year!

I’ve put together my personal to do list, how does yours compare?

1. Select and buy all the presents - I always want to take my time here so that everyone knows I personally had them in mind!

2. Write my Christmas Wish List - This is the time for those once in a blue moon items I’m too practical to buy for myself!

3. Create and send out the Evites for the party - Can’t forget old friends and my favorite (and maybe not so favorite) friends and relatives.

4. Pick out Christmas Cards, will I use E-cards or mail them? Everybody likes those cute E-cards, but you can’t hang them from the railing!

5. Make the initial First Batch of Egg Nog, oh yeah!

6. Put income and expense projection for the year together in order to do my tax projection…….Do my tax projection? I know, you’re thinking what are you talking about?

Yep, in addition to all the Holiday planning, you should take time to do an Uncle Sam checkup to take the time to pro-actively manage for any taxes due.

First, see what your financial picture looks like.

Have you earned more money this year? If you work and receive a W2, will you be getting a bonus? Will there be sufficient taxes taken out? The last thing you need when a nice bonus comes in is to have to write checks to the Feds and the State. If you believe you

20

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

will owe, you can ask for additional monies to be taken out of the bonus or your last pays, or you can make an estimated payment. Use your last pay stub to see what things look like overall.

If you are self-employed, it’s more complicated. You need to actually do a profit and loss statement (Revenues minus Expenses) to get a true picture.

First, you’ll want to look at your gross earnings year to date, plus any additional receipts that will come in during December. Next, take a look at all your expenses to date. See what your net income is, including projected expenses through the end of December. The numbers you put together should be compared to last year’s tax filing. Make sure you have considered all expenses. If you keep your records on QuickBooks, or FreshBooks, or another type of accounting system, it is a little easier. If you use the “shoebox” method, it may take a bit longer. Use an Excel or other spreadsheet program if you don’t use accounting software to organize your information.

Once you have a picture of what the year looks like, it’s time for your next step: Calling your tax professional. A qualified tax professional projects what your tax bill will be. Compare that to any estimated

TAXES

payments you’ve made. Yikes! I haven’t made any estimated payments. Not to worry, see what the picture looks like.

Okay, I know I am going to owe. That’s just the way it is, right? WRONG! Now is the time for proactive action that can impact 2013 taxes BEFORE the end of the year:

Your tax professional should be able to assist you with projecting the impact of any number of strategies: 1. Look at deferring income. Perhaps you don’t bill that client until January so that the money is considered income in 2014 instead of 2013.

2. Look at accelerating expenses. Make an extra mortgage payment. Pay ahead on the Internet, cell phone, utilities, office supplies and other bills.

3. Thinking about buying a new Ipad, Laptop, Printer, Scanner? Do it before December 31, 2013 and deduct it this tax year, gaining an immediate benefit. If you wait until 1/1/2014, the tax benefit doesn’t help you until the END of 2014.

4. One major way to defer income is to set up a retirement plan. If you are self-employed and want to defer more income than with a standard IRA, you will need to ESTABLISH the plan BEFORE year end. You still have until you file taxes to fund it, but it needs to be set up by December 31.

Once you have your projection completed, you definitely want to pay any STATE tax liability BEFORE December 31, 2013 in order to have that deduction for 2013. Your Federal payment due can wait until January 15, 2014.

It’s never too early in the year or too late in the year to look at the tax impact for the current year. It’s a good idea to keep control over your taxes, and one main way to do that is to manage your income and expenses pro-actively, not re-actively!

Your tax professional should be one of your best friends, a team player helping you to maximize your income while strategizing to minimize your taxes! Just one more thing for the holidays, right? But this one can actually save you money, not cost you! Happy Holidays! ■ Suzann D Medicus is a CPA in Maryland. She owns a few offices of Liberty Tax, and works as a business advisor and consultant. Sue is also an adjunct professor at UMBC where she teaches accounting and auditing courses. She can be reached at sdmedicuscpa@gmail.com, or at her main Liberty office at 410-788-8292.

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23

Single Women Can Buy a home

By Jennifer Bayne

A

ccording to the National Association of Realtors, single women are purchasing homes at nearly twice the rate of single men. Purchasers were 18% single women, versus 10% single men. This statistic does not surprise me, every day as I see more independent women enter the market place. Single women have proven to be very conscientious about learning the ins and outs of the mortgage process, evaluating their needs verses wants, and making intelligent financial decisions.

When is the best time to buy? The best time to buy is when you are financially comfortable. As we head in to the winter market savvy buyers are diligently searching for their new home. These buyers know the difference in the seasonal markets and are taking advantage of the unusually low interest rates.

When you think of Real Estate very often the “Spring Market” comes to mind. Spring tends to be very active for real estate sales.

Spring brings new growth, refreshing weather, and a surge of anxious 24

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

sellers and buyers. Buying or selling a home during the holidays is a serious business. The Fall and Winter Real Estate Market differ in many ways from the Spring Market.

Typically there is less inventory and people do not want to be inconvenienced during the holidays, the east coast weather tends to make people lethargic. The “off” market offers a great time for negotiating; sellers understand that the buyer pool tends to be smaller than the spring buyer pool, they tend to receive offers with a more open mind.

People need to move for various reasons; relocating for employment, rental lease terms are ending, can’t pass up the current interest rates, and tax deductions before the end of the year are very strong incentives.

The serious players are out!

The Baltimore Real Estate Market continues to be robust, low inventory is creating a buyer urgency and seller gain. According to Standard & Poor’s Case Shiller Index overall prices are down about 25% from their peak.

Many buyers are under the

impression that they cannot possibly qualify for a loan unless they save enough cash for a 20 percent down payment. This can be particularly daunting prospect for women who have children to support. There are many loan programs available that do not require 20% down and incredible incentives for qualified buyers.

Mortgages are still very reasonable, under 5%, although we saw the rates spike in August thy have lowered to the mid 4% range.

Don’t forget the numerous home buyer incentives that are available to first time home buyers: home buyer grants, Live Near Your Work, employer assistance, etc. Keep in mind that there are certain restrictions that apply to the incentives including attending home buyer workshops, but in the long run you will be a well-educated home buyer and acquire funds to assist with your closing costs.

Steps to finding your next home: • Look at your credit-Fix any credit issues. You can work with your trusted mortgage professional to

REAL ESTATE

create a plan that will get you on track to qualify for the right loan, even if you aren’t quite there yet.

• Get pre-approved with a mortgage loan officer, be prepared when you meet with the loan officer, take the following documents:

o Copies of paystubs for the past 3 months

o Copies of bank statements for the past 3 months bank statements (all accounts)

o Copies of the tax returns from the last 3 years (make sure they are signed copies)

o Getting pre-approved will help you determine your purchasing power, budget for the appropriate monthly payment, etc.

• Contact a Realtor® to discuss areas your options. It is important to understand that a house is house until you make it your home. Go in with an open mind, look at the space. Just because you might not like the cur-

rent décor (paint choice, floor covering, etc.) you can decorate to make it your home. I schedule a preliminary meeting with my clients to discuss their needs and the home buying process. I like to share examples of previous clients’ transactions to give them an idea of what can happen during the process and how the situations were handled.

Why buy a home: • A secure environment to raise a family • Safety • More space • Decorate and renovate according to personal style • Financial investment (and stability; while rents continuously rise a fixed rate mortgage payment will remain the same).

Some buyers are reluctant about home ownership due to the anticipation of home maintenance. Call me, we can talk about home warranty options to help defray the costs. ■

Jennifer Bayne is a Realtor who bought her own home as a single mother. She currently works with Long and Foster Real Estate Inc. to help buyers find their dream homes. You can contact her at anytime about your home buying questions at (410) 377-2270 or her call at (410) 409-2393. You can also log on to www.LivingMD.com to start your home search today! Call me to set up a one on one real estate consultation.

Mention this article and receive a 1 year home warranty at settlement when you buy or sell a home with me.



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

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JENNIFER BAYNE, REALTOR® Home Buyer Grant Specialist (410) 409-2393 Jennifer@LivingMD.com

(410) 377-2270

Start your home search today

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WWW.BWOMANMAGAZINE.COM

25

W

hat is massage? The most common answer is that massage is a luxury reserved only for special occasions or when the body is in crisis. While this may be true massage is a way to relax and to heal, a holistic treatment that has therapeutic benefits for the mind, body and spirit. By releasing endorphins and increasing circulation, frequent massage can help reduce stress and offer relief from problematic symptoms that cause aches and pains in the body.

There are many styles of massage including Swedish, Deep Tissue, Trigger Point Therapy, Myofascial Release, Shiatsu and Reflexology. Among the many benefits, including the ability to reduce stress levels and increase circulation, massage has the capacity to enhance the immune system, promote nervous system function, reduce blood pressure as well as ease sore muscles. It can improve mood as well as intellectual reasoning and job performance.

Many Americans experience muscle soreness from strenuous exercise or physical activity. But muscle soreness can be caused by a host of things, including stress. Stress is a major contributor in body related issues. Thankfully, there is a remedy outside of tradi-

tional medicine that can help in controlling stress and other contributing factors that cause body issues. For many, massage therapy is a medicine free alternative that frees the body from pain and helps to promote balance in the body.

On a physical level, massage addresses soft tissue (muscular) issues that are a result of an injury or strenuous physical activity. Stress on muscles causes the body to create adhesions (knots) in the body that restrict movement and cause pain. Regular massage helps to break up these adhesions restoring free range of motion and helps to relax the muscles associated with exercise or stress allowing the body the flexibility to begin to heal. A licensed therapist is extensively trained to identify these conditions and create a treatment plan based on specific individual needs.

Massage can help us to control emotional stress too, and this is not simply about the relaxation benefits. Our bodies counteract stress by secreting the hormone cortisol which has a direct impact on the immune system. People under high levels of stress are at risk to infection and disease due to a compromised immune system. Maintaining a regular massage regimen

The Benefits of Massage

by Glenn Ferrugiari, of Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa

26

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

WELLNESS

will result in decreased levels of cortisol, allowing the body to restore function properly. High levels of stress are one of the main factors that raise blood pressure and regular massage can help to control high blood pressure. Massage encourages relaxation which will result in deeper breathing. This promotes a healthier blood flow and increased levels of oxygen allowing for a more peaceful restful state.

Beyond the benefits to address specific conditions, some people enjoy massage because it involves a sense of comfort, caring and connectedness. Dr. Tiffany Field of the Touch Research institute in Miami did a study on 20 premature babies where all 20 babies were given the exact same medical care but 10 of the babies received 10 minutes of massage three times a day. The results were impressive;

the babies who received massage grew and developed much faster than those who did not. The simple act of touch can encourage or motivate a person to deal with the many stressors in life.

On every level of life it is proven that massage can be beneficial for the variety of well know benefits such as improved immunity, stress reduction, healthier skin tone and texture, improved lymphatic system and nervous system responses, and all the more subtle but equally powerful responses such as bonding, improved energetic pathways and a healthier body image.

Thanks to the growing spa industry, it is no longer a luxury reserved for the privileged or for special occasions. ■

Content provided by Glenn Ferrugiari, Elizabeth Arden Red Door Spa’s National Training Director for Body.

With its renowned beauty expertise based on the fundamental elements of day spa pioneer Elizabeth Arden, Red Door Spa operates 30 day and resort spas nationwide including a location in Baltimore, Maryland at The Village of Cross Keys, 42 Village Square. For more information call 866.RED.DOOR or visit reddoorspas.com.

Italian Fruit Cobbler

adapted from Under the Tuscan Sun

By Harriet Dopkin, The Classic Catering People

D

esserts at our house are typically unplanned, quick and usually feature fruit. Baked apples, bananas sautéed Foster style, individual peach streusel pies baked in muffin tins, as well as crisps and cobblers, are created with whatever fruits are piling up on our family’s kitchen counter.

A recent autumn trip to Italy, delighted by a regional pasta dish of pear and cheese purses with a radicchio speck sauce, inspired me to prepare one our favorite cobbler recipes. Adapted from Under the Tuscan Sun, the pear and mascarpone cobbler is an unbeatable combination. Summer peaches also work well with this recipe.

Ingredients: • 6 medium pears • ½ cup sugar, plus 1 teaspoon • 4 tablespoons butter • 1 egg • 2/3 cup mascarpone • 2 tablespoons flour • ½ pinch salt • ½ teaspoon vanilla

Directions: 1.

Peel and slice 6 medium pears (or peaches or

apples) and arrange in a buttered baking dish.

2.

Sprinkle with 1 teaspoon of sugar. Cream 4

tablespoons butter and ½ cup of sugar until light.

3.

Beat in 1 egg, then 2/3 cup mascarpone.

4.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of flour last and mix well.

5.

Spoon over fruit 6.

Bake at 350 degrees until just set, 40 minutes. *Note: sometimes this has taken up to 1 hour to finish.

WWW.BWOMANMAGAZINE.COM

27

Hello Diva

by K. Lee Rice

4 tips to De-stress Your Christmas Holiday

So,

Christmas is less than 30 days away and each minstrel sounds more like disemboweled chants rather than yuletides, “Mer-ry Christmas, Mer-ry Christmas, fa, la, la, la, la, blah, blah, blah, blah”.

The decorations, the crowds, and the late holiday plans seem to get the best of you, but your tasks have just begun. You put extra effort into creating a mental record of the items that you must accomplish before December 25th. There are a number of detailed things on the mental list and a limited amount of time to do them in. Being fully aware of the time constraints, you are exhausted and sluggish. What you need now is a jolt of “get up and go” to put things into action.

There are several outstanding items to complete and take care of before Christmas day, for example the problems with the Christmas dinner menu. You still need to update it to include a few vegetarian dishes to accommodate the guests that do not eat meat. Your relatives are flying in for the holiday one week prior to the big day and you are far from prepared to have visitors at your home. You still have grocery shopping as an outstanding item on your list of things to do and you still need to put up the curtains you purchased last month for the spare bed rooms downstairs.

Last, and most important, you have yet to finish the Christmas shopping for the family “Gift Games,” which normally takes place right after the Christmas dinner. Most of

28

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

the kids look forward to playing this game for the gifts and honestly, you normally put lots of thought into each gift idea you purchase. Besides, the family members have already contributed money to the Gift Giving fund and painstakingly, it’s your responsibility to spend the money wisely, to ensure that everyone has a gift on Christmas day. You are so far from feeling “Merry” at this moment in time especially after barely recovering from hosting the Thanksgiving dinner at your home just the previous month. How on earth can you honestly think about preparing for Christmas day right now? Does any of this “nightmare during the Christmas holiday” sound familiar?

The holiday season can be extreme to say the least.

It can be a very demanding and stressful time for lots of women. We often find ourselves in holiday frenzy rather than a festive sentiment. All of the obligations, necessities, and preparations needed to support the ideal Christmas day only intensifies the anxiety to have everything work out error free. A woman’s job is never finished. We are such perfectionists; each aspect and element is carefully planned and orchestrated for the perfect day, especially when we are the host. Even the strong and well equipped woman cannot overcome everything and with all that we are capable of, most of us are unable to conquer stress. As a woman myself, I totally get it ladies, so here are 4 tips that, if practiced, will

HELLO DIVA

not only help keep you jolly, joyous and festive throughout the Christmas holiday but also make room for you to celebrate your generosity without feeling overburdened and resentful.

1. Be Centered. Take a moment to meditate on all good things and only focus your energy on those items that make you feel good. Live in the Now. Actively engage life right now in whatever you are doing. Learn to pay attention to what is currently happening and appreciate it on all levels. Be conscious and recognize the beauty in each and every moment of your life and believe that when you actively engage life, it participates by surrounding you with positive energy.

2. Be realistic. It’s okay to say no.

Women are multidimensional. We can be all things to everyone; the kids, the husband, our girlfriends, relatives….

and the list goes on. Realistically, we are only one person with multifaceted skills and capabilities but we also have limitations. We are fabulous but we have boundaries. Be aware of what those are for you, and speak up!

3. Be grateful. Slow down and take a look around you. All of the necessary responsibilities have a way of keeping us preoccupied but remember what this season brings and take the time to be thankful for it all.

4. Remember Self. Don’t forget about you. Take care of yourself, and call a “time out session” if needed to reboot. Remember that you know yourself better than anyone else around you.

Be happy and use my tips to de-stress your Christmas holiday, you deserve it for all that you do. ■

Merry Christmas Diva’s, K. Lee Rice

K. Lee Rice is the President/CEO of Lipscomb Technology & Consulting Services, LLC. She is also the official writer for the “Hello Diva” Column in B Woman Magazine. She aims to influence others through optimism using a classic theme consisting of ordinary people and real life issues.

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10 Easy Steps to Throwing the Best

New Year’s Eve Dinner Party Written By: Val Englert, Owner of VME Events LLC Photography: NYE: Artemas Photography Headshot: Evelyn Alas Photography

R

egardless of the occasion or holiday, I’ve noticed that a lot of people tend to shy away from dinner parties and opt for the easy cocktail party these days. But what is holding you back from having your closest friends over for dinner? Below are my tips on hosting a dinner party for New Year’s Eve without all the preconceived stress and hassle.

Stick to your BUDGET: Create a budget by thinking of all the components you want at your party before diving in and making impulse purchases. A budget does not just mean a set dollar amount but rather that number broken up into the specific categories (food, beverages, décor, flowers, etc). Remember that during the planning process, you can certainly shift money around into other categories if you’ve been able to find some great deals or even changed your mind about specifics.

Organization: “I’m OVERWHELMED!” - Create a spreadsheet to keep everything together. Helpful categories, such as Budget, Timeline, Purchases, Recipes (if cooking), and Notes, can assist in putting all your thoughts logically on paper. Use a large box to keep things together so you aren’t scrambling around the day of your party trying to locate everything.

Alcohol: “You expect me to cook AND fully stock a bar?” - Well if you can that is impressive, but not necessary.

Instead of having a fully stocked bar, provide an assortment of wine, beer, and offer a signature cocktail like Lavender Champagne. If you already know what your guests prefer to drink then that helps, but ask your local liquor store for suggestions.

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B Woman Magazine / December 2013

The Meal: “I’m expected to cook an entire meal for twelve people? I’m not Betty Crocker!” - If you are a whiz in the kitchen, I’m jealous. Cooking is half the battle of throwing a dinner party if cooking is not your forte. Instead of trying to make an entire meal and dessert from scratch, use your local caterer or gourmet grocery store to supply the dinner. Personally, I love Graul’s and Wegmans if I forego a caterer. As a happy medium, make the hors d’oeuvres and desserts homemade but rely on an outside source for the dinner. You’ll be able to spend time with guests rather than slave away in the kitchen.

Décor: “Décor is so expensive when I have to buy everything.” - This is where you can customize your party to you and your style! Don’t be afraid to step out of the box! Go through your house and use what you have or even borrow from friends, take a trip to grandma’s attic, antique shops, or thrift stores to stick to your theme. New Year’s Eve color schemes are black & silver, so try spicing it up by adding gold or even add an accent color like deep purple or blue.

Invites: “How do I get the word out?” - If you are going through the trouble of hosting a semi-formal dinner party, go the extra mile to send invitations through the mail.

Tangible invites are more personal and meaningful to your guests. If you are environmentally friendly, there are recycled paper invites available instead of the typical “E-vite”.

Fashion: “BUT WHAT DO I WEAR?” - Get dressed up! It’s a great excuse to throw on your favorite LBD (Little Black Dress) or splurge on a fun sparkly dress. This is the perfect party to rock those glittery pumps or the loud accessories—you know, those crazy earrings and matching neck-

EVENT PLANNING

lace you bought but never thought you could pull off? Wear them! Be bold!

Entertainment: “What music style is most appropriate? Should there be other party activities?” - Music is a must, but of course with the TV on mute so you and your guests do not miss any NYE festivities in NYC. Always pick something upbeat that everyone can enjoy.

Worried about what to talk about at the table? Holiday crackers/poppers are the answer. These are a great addition to any party! They are perfect conversation pieces; once you “pop” them open, they come with a riddle, prize, and a paper crown

that even the most reserved party guest can’t help but enjoy.

To Use Pinterest or not to use Pinterest: “I pinned a thousand ideas!” - This is a great resource when throwing a party, but remember not to go overboard. Small DIY projects can easily add up, costing you a lot of time and money if you aren’t careful. I do not recommend selecting more than three new projects or recipes for one party.

Last but not least! Enjoy yourself and your time with your guests! New Year’s Eve is a night for celebrating. As the host, you should be able to celebrate, too! ■

Val Englert is the owner of the event planning & consulting company, VME Events, LLC. From weddings to nonprofit fundraisers to VIP corporate events, we specialize in customizing your event with the hopes of exceeding your expectations and keeping the process as stress-free as possible. For more information, visit www.vmeevents.com or contact Val at vmeevents@ gmail.com. VME Events, LLC can also be found on Facebook, Instagram, Pinterest & Twitter.

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31

VOLUNTEER

Spotlight Volunteer

Jeanne Giorgilli

of the

SPCA

J

eanne Giorgilli began volunteering with the Maryland SPCA six years ago. During her time with the Maryland SPCA, Giorgilli has been trained in every job a volunteer can perform including dog walker, cat cuddler, pet nursery helper, foster parent for pets who are not ready to enter our adoption program because of medical or behavioral issues, exam room helper, front desk greeter, and volunteer trainer. Giorgilli always makes herself available to help at our events, and has also been a tremendous fundraiser for the Maryland SPCA. She was also instrumental in arranging a large group of T. Rowe Price employees to provide regular volunteer service days at our adoption center.

“Always calm and cool under pressure, Jeanne finds the positive in everything and always has a smile on her face,” said Katie Flory, Volunteer Manager with the Maryland SPCA. “She is the type of volunteer any organization would wish for.”

Flory’s nickname for Giorgilli is “the puppy whisperer” because she often helps our fearful puppies or pups who are exhibiting inappropriate behavior get back on track.

Despite all Jeanne has done for the MD SPCA, she’ll tell you about what volunteering has done for her.

“I was in a dark place when I started volunteering, said Giorgilli. I was struggling with life and why I couldn’t have children. The MD SPCA gave my life meaning and gave me a place to put my love.”

Outside of the Maryland SPCA, Giorgilli volunteers with Bella’s Bully Buddies, a nonprofit organization that connects a network of foster parents to rescue pit bull type dogs from sometimes abusive and neglectful situations. Giorgilli says this organization helps to “change the 32 B Woman Magazine / December 2013

perception of the breed.”

At home, Jeanne has two cats, Bug and Teeks.

She also has three dogs: Emma, Bella, and Moochie.

“I was in a dark place when I started volunteering, said Giorgilli. I was struggling with life and why I couldn’t have children. The MD SPCA gave my life meaning and gave me a place to put my love.”

Jeanne adopted Emma and Bella from the Maryland SPCA. She adopted Bug, Teeks and Moochie from other area shelters.

Jeanne said that volunteering has helped her create a legacy. “The focus here is on the animals, but people get a lot out of this too.” ■

WELLNESS

Transform Your HealthTransform Yourself!

Part IV of VIII

By Heather P. Shreve

S

ometimes we get lulled into thinking that something outside of us will “fix” us- make us happier, more fit, more energetic, more healthy, more ….? The truth is, there is MORE, but it doesn’t come from anywhere but YOU! Deep inside you are all the answers.

This month, let’s talk about Invisible Force #3: The Secret Spark.

A Case of ‘Upside –Down’ Thinking

In the process of transformation there has to be a genesis, a beginning idea, a spark. When people think of getting well, the invariably think of physical wellness first.

Then, when they are fit, maybe they will get their mental energy back (focus), then maybe they can get their emotional energy (passion)

powered up. And finally, everyone hopes for a greater calling (purpose) to keep them going. Unfortunately, this is ‘when-then’ thinking and it is upside down.

In truth, the Secret Spark is finding your purpose FIRST which will then power you through the next 3 stages of wellness, including the ability to pay yourself first so you can maintain peak performance for the rest of your life. If this case of upside-down thinking isn’t ‘treated’, it can be terminal.

Filling The Well

If you think of the Secret Spark as the ignition at the bottom of an inverted triangle, or well, it behooves all of us to feed that fire with what we love, whatever it takes to be in alignment with what we want, and hence, our deeper purpose.

Once you discover what fuels you,

it becomes much easier to see your value and treat yourself well. Americans as a group seem determined to take care of themselves LAST. How does this serve any of us? It is an ‘old idea,’ and one that really doesn’t work.

Your homework is to become comfortable with taking care of you; which means filling your well with what gives you purpose. (Hint- it can’t be your children, your grandchildren or anyone outside of you.)

Keep a running list of what excites you. A pattern will emerge. If you already know what it is, find a way to pay yourself first with this special ‘thing’ every day! It will become that battery pack that transports you to a whole new level!

Until next time; I wish you the best. And remember; look up!

That is where life is. ■

Heather Shreve is a certified Wellcoach ™ (ACSM) certified personal trainer (ACSM), creator of the Drawn Into Wellness™ Platform, author of Caught On The Equator, Finding The Fire Within, and Drawn Into Wellness; Train Your Brain to Create Lasting Change and Doodle Urself to Health for Teens, is a mother of two and has logged 30,000 hours as a fine artist.

WWW.BWOMANMAGAZINE.COM 33

THE DETAILS BRIDAL GOWN Enzoani GROOM’S SUIT/TUX Vera Wang HAIR STYLIST Salon 8736, Kasey Ramsey MAKEUP ARTIST Kristen Floyd

Lauren & Michael TIED THE KNOT: October 5, 2013

Photographer: Maria Linz Photography -- Helen Macaulay

PHOTOGRAPHY Maria Linz Photography FLORIST Flowers By Design ENTERTAINMENT The Panama Band CATERER The Center Club CAKE Sugar Bakers CEREMONY LOCATION St. Leo the Great RECEPTION LOCATION The Center Club WEDDING OFFICIANT Father Salvatore Furnari

34

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

L

TIE THE KNOT

auren Cook, a Reporter for ABC2 News and Michael Alessi Jr., a Sales Associate at Summit Financial, met in Ocean City, Maryland. Both spent their summers in the vacation town, but it was not until years later in Baltimore, that they would fall in love. On April 23, 2010, Michael took Lauren to Saute in Canton for dinner.

They have been inseparable ever since.

They became engaged shortly after their two year anniversary. “Mike proposed to me at his home,” says Lauren, who is head over heels for Michael. “The proposal was perfect. I’m happier than I could have ever imagined.”

They became engaged shortly after their two year anniversary. Mike proposed to me at his home, says Lauren, who is head over heels for Michael.

The proposal was perfect. I’m happier than I could have ever imagined.

After a year and a half engagement, the couple married at St. Leo the Great in Little Italy, Baltimore. Lauren’s sister was her Maid of Honor and Michael’s father was his Best Man. The Bride wore a blue sapphire and diamond ring that her father had sent her grandmother from Vietnam, while he served in the Army. Lauren was also given David Yurman topaz and diamond earrings from her in-laws as her “something blue.” The wedding reception was held at the prestigious Center Club located in the heart of downtown Baltimore. “The view of the Inner Harbor was breathtaking. The best in the city.”

Lauren’s sister and mother helped perfect every detail. Historical “Baltimore Then and Now” books adorned the tables, each signed by the thoughtful bride and groom, for guests to take home. Guests signed a vintage map of Baltimore, a keepsake for Lauren and Michael to cherish for a lifetime.

One of the most memorable moments of the day was when “Lauren’s father walked her down the aisle and then they had their first dance together.”

There wasn’t a dry eye in the place. Lauren’s dad has had Parkinson’s Disease since she was five years old.

It was unclear if he would be able to do so, but he did. “It meant more to me than words could ever describe. My dad is truly an inspiration.” Lauren and Michael danced to “Better Together,” by Jack Johnson. “It was a really special moment for us.” ■

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Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t Miss These Upcoming Events!

36

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

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37

HAPPENINGS

Mrs. Maryland Pageant Photography by: Charles Martin

“T

he experience of providing service in our community gives us all an opportunity to help others, catch up with friends, make new friends, network, develop new skills and discover a new niche. It’s the ultimate experience, which empowers us to lead and succeed in every area of our lives.”

- Heather Ziehl, Mrs. Maryland America 2013

"W

inning Mrs. Maryland America 2014 was extremely meaningful.

When I think about where I was a year ago, having just completed a battle with Ovarian Cancer, I would've never imagined I would be crossing a stage wearing a crown. None of it would've been possible without my friends and family loving me back to life."

- Zereana Huff, Mrs. Maryland America 2014

“I

couldn't be happier winning third runner up, the Entourage award, and the Promotions award at my first pageant! The Mrs. Maryland America family is amazing and I had the time of my life. I will cherish the memories and friendships that I made over the pageant weekend.“

-Katie Kinslow, Mrs. Bel Air

More Pictures of Local Events at: www.BWomanMagazine.com/Events 38

B Woman Magazine / December 2013

HAPPENINGS

December Events 11

05

Dr. Dean Kane’s Holiday Seminar

07

B-More Bags 9th Annual Trunk Show & Sale

07

Swaportunity the Accessory Exchange

WHEN: December 5th @ 2pm WHERE: Baltimore Center of Cosmetic Surgery, 1 Reservoir Circle #201 Baltimore, MD 21208 DETAILS: Come learn how Dr. Kane keeps you looking your best and refreshed now and forever at his Holiday Free Seminar Day. MORE INFO: http://drdeankane.com

event of the season! The American Breast Cancer Foundation, in collaboration with The Johns Hopkins Breast Center on the Johns Hopkins Bayview Campus, is proud to host the 1st Annual “Fashion Saves Lives” event. Come see the latest holiday fashions from Jones & Jones of Cross Keys, and Jos. A. Bank, featured on beautiful breast cancer survivors–showing that with early detection, anything is possible, even walking down a high-end fashion runway feeling and looking beautiful!

MORE INFO: info@abcf.org

3rd Annual Winter Fun House Mixer

WHEN: December 11th @ 7-9pm WHERE: Mr. Rain’s Fun House (3rd Floor of AVAM), 800 Key Highway, Baltimore, MD 21230 DETAILS: Please Join B’More Creatives for our 3rd Annual Winter Fun House Mixer! Early bird tickets are $35, which includes drinks, hors d’oeuvres, amazing raffle prizes and networking with the most fabulous creatives around!

MORE INFO: BMoreCreatives.com

WHEN: December 7th @ 10am–5pm WHERE: Ruth’s Closet, 9131 Reisterstown Road, Garrison, MD 21117 DETAILS: Hip, Contemporary, Classic. Whatever your taste, B-More Bags has something for you! Designed and hand crafted by House of Ruth Maryland volunteers, each bag is unique, fun, stylish, and functional. All proceeds support the House Of Ruth Maryland’s Emergency Fund for battered women and their children.

MORE INFO: Contact House of Ruth at volunteers@hruthmd.org

WHEN: December 7th @ 5:30–8pm WHERE: Daily Grind, 1720 Thames Street, Baltimore, MD 21231 DETAILS: An Accessory SWAP & SHOP & Fun Holiday meetup. Guests bring their pre-loved jewelry, handbags, scarves glasses all around accessories and have the chance to SWAP with other guests goodies. It’s thrifting in a whole new way!

MORE INFO: fashionablychictour@ yahoo.com

10

Come to our

Fashion Saves Lives–Fashion Event of the Season!

WHEN: December 10th @ 6-9pm WHERE: Port Discovery Children’s Museum, 35 Market Place, Baltimore, MD 21202 DETAILS: Don’t miss the fashion

COOLSCULPTUNG

EVENT

on January 9th!

20 Crossroads Drive, Suite 12 • Owings Mills 410.363.9000 www.woodyardmd.com

Call for details and RSVP

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39

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