Ciao Bella! November/December 2013

ciao bella!

Get inspired.

A women’s lifestyle magazine November 2013

Coming Up Roses Catching Up With Cindi

Exclusive!

Trista Sutter Reality Star/Author, On Her New Book

Losing Sight

A Weight Loss Wake-Up Call PLUS!

Launch Party Invite, Stress-Free Holidays, Irresistible Adoptable Pets and More!

Houston • ciaobellamagazine.com

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 1

2 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

4TH GENERATION

HOUSTONIAN

SELLING REAL ESTATE FOR 16 YEARS Tim Patterson brings an edited view of the Houston landscape.

With an excellent understanding of the integrity of homes, including an inclusive perspective on structure, Tim is able to match clients to their dream home as well as quickly identify how to move houses in a competitive market. Clients are consistently drawn to his unique understanding of up-coming and established Houston neighborhoods, along with his contagious ability to inspire excitement for the city in others.

Tim brings decades of experience managing a portfolio of personal properties in the Houston market. A homeowner since the age of 19, he is able to easily place himself in the shoes of his clients, helping to guide them as they make one of the biggest decisions of their lives. Whether moving families into their very first home or helping a future resident relocate, Tim is able to foretell home value for his clients.

Tim enjoys well-deserved accolades as a strong advocate for his clients. Technologically adept, he constantly employs the latest strategies to help his clients sell their properties quickly, and meticulously supervises the online and offline presence of his properties to make sure his sellers are positioned for success.

On a personal level, Tim’s passion is travel, and the farther away the better. “I can’t get enough of traveling abroad,” he says. “I fill my passport with a mix of must-see countries and third-world stamps. I love the adventure of discovering different cultures, and I’m a big history and architecture buff as well.” When not working or globe-trotting, Tim enjoys spoiling his eight (and counting) nieces and nephews.

For any of your real estate needs, call me!

TIM PATTERSON REALTOR ASSOCIATE - Circle of Excellence

281.380.9600

tpatterson@marthaturner.com

WELCOME HOME w w w . M A R T H A T U R N E R . c o m

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 3

{

editor's note

Ciao Bella! : An informal Italian expression that means "hello and/or goodbye beautiful"

Happy Thanksgiving from

ciao bella!

I

WIN

You do not haveto be present to win.

Get inspired.

Volume 1 • Issue 2

© 2013 by Ciao Bella! Magazine. Ciao Bella! ®

Publisher and

and Ciao Bella!

GetEditor-in-Chief Inspired ® are Registered Heidi Suprun Trademarks. All Rights Reserved. Ciao Bella! reserves the right to edit, reject or comment Art Director/Graphic Designer

editorially on all submitted material. We do Tanya Bäck not necessarily endorse views expressed in

by Heidi Suprun, Editor-in-Chief

'm delighted that the second issue of ciao bella! has made its way into your hands, and I hope that this labor of love will soon find its way into your heart. I look forward to bringing you with me on this journey of inspiration each month.

This month we highlight Cindi Rose, a woman best known for her silhouette art and her giving nature. I was in awe to learn that Cindi created all of the gorgeous art you see in the Gittings portraits on our cover and on page 14. I also enjoyed learning that Cindi is a wonderful cook. I can attest to it because she shared her juicy, flavorful crock pot turkey and organic vegetables with me.

Read more about Cindi in Heather Taylor's article, "Everything's Coming Up Roses," and find out Cindi's all-natural beauty secrets in this month's Beauty Confessional.

Thanksgiving is about gratitude. Recently on television I saw reality star, Trista Sutter, known to many from The Bachelor and The Bachelorette. She mentioned that she had written a new book called, Happily Ever After: The Life-Changing Power of a Grateful Heart which comes out on November 26. It sounded perfect, so I contacted her and she graciously agreed to grant ciao bella! an interview. Jennifer Heath interviewed Trista and found out that this lovely woman leads by example. Her book, which recommends focusing on the positives and maintaining a sense of gratitude, is a wonderful holiday read!

November is American Diabetes Month and I thought it was important to bring attention to this growing national health concern. On diabetes.org I read some startling statistics: Nearly 26 million Americans have diabetes and another 79 million have prediabetes which puts them at risk for developing type 2 diabetes. Adding insult to injury, the estimated cost of diagnosed diabetes in the U.S. is $245 billion. To learn more about the disease, Heather Taylor interviewed Julie Orlin Pickett, a woman who was taken by surprise when she learned she had diabetes. Julie shared her journey with us in the hope that her story would serve as inspiration for other women to pay closer attention to their bodies and to make a commitment to their health.

And last but not least, I want to invite you to the ciao bella! Launch Party benefiting Child Advocates on Thursday, November 14 from 5 - 8:30 p.m. at BB1 Classic, 1101-06 Uptown Park Blvd. We're starting early to give you a chance to stop by before any other commitments you may have that night. With a Three Day - Two Night Getaway for two at catering by Tony's, wine from the Tasting Room and music

by Amin Safari, you know it's going to be a great party!

Fill out an entry at: Read the details on page 6 www.ciaobellamagazine.com by midnight and page 22. I hope you'll on 11/13 & "Like" Ciao Bella Magazine on make plans to join me for this Facebook to stay connected. wonderful celebration!

Winner will be announced at the Launch Party.

ciao bella!

See you on the 14th!

Heidi

4 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

Assistant the articles Editors and advertisements, nor are we responsible for Heather the advertised products and Jennifer Heath, J. Taylor services. Reproduction in whole or part without

Contributing permission of the Writers publisher is strictly prohibited.

Jennifer Heath,your Dr.ideas, Sunita Kotecha, We welcome articles and feedback.

Nan Hall us Linke, M.A., Heidi Suprun, Contact at info@ciaobellamagazine.com or call 832.652.9268.

Heather J. Taylor Visiting Ciao Bella!Writers is published and delivered monthly Walter R. Black, Ph.D., Biancaand Burrascano, to women-centric businesses to homes Zbigniew “Tony”rotated Chmielewski, in a two-month circulation.M.D., Ciao Bella! is also available digitallyChristopher each month Jayne, at www.

Samara Beth Hurley, M.D., ciaobellamagazine.com.

Dr. Audrey Trotti Photographers Gittings, Herb Hochman, Morgan Matters Photography, Omar Mejia for www.lastnightpics.com, Daniel Ortiz, Debbie Porter Photography, Julie Soefer Published by ciao bella! Magazine 4660 Beechnut, Suite 214 Houston, Texas 77096 Email: info@ciaobellamagazine.com Website and Digital Version: www.ciaobellamagazine.com Facebook: Ciao Bella Magazine Phone: 832.652.9268 • Fax: 713.218.0402 PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE

To advertise your business in Houston's most targeted women's lifestyle magazine designed for intelligent, affluent, stylish and health-conscious readers, call ciao bella! at 832.652.9268 or email: ads@cioabellamagazine. Download a media kit at www.ciaobellamagazine.com. © 2013 by ciao bella! Magazine. ciao bella!® and ciao bella! Get Inspired® are Registered Trademarks. All Rights Reserved. ciao bella! reserves the right to edit, reject or comment editorially on all submitted material.

We do not necessarily endorse views expressed in the articles and advertisements, nor are we responsible for the advertised products and services. Reproduction in whole or part without permission of the publisher is strictly prohibited.

We welcome your ideas, articles and feedback.

Contact us at info@ciaobellamagazine.com or call 832.652.9268. ciao bella! is published and delivered monthly to women-centric businesses and to homes in a two-month rotated circulation.

ciao bella!

A women’s lifestyle magazine November 2013

Coming Up Roses Catching Up With Cindi

ciao bella!

Get inspired.

Get inspired.

ON THE COVER: Exclusive!

trista sutter Reality star/Author, on her new Book

14 Everything's Coming Up Roses Heather Taylor Catches up with Renowned Silhouette Artist,Cindi Rose Cover photography by GITTINGS

Losing sight

A Weight Loss Wake-Up Call PLUS! Launch Party invite, Stress-Free Holidays, Irresistible Adoptable Pets and More!

contents

NOVEMBER Houston • ciaobellamagazine.com

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 1

2013

features

12 Losing Sight of Life How One Woman's Obsession With Being Thin Almost Killed Her. Julie Orlin Pickett shares her frightening weight-loss wake-up call with Heather Taylor.

23 The Reality of EXCLUSIVE! Being Grateful

ciao bella! Exclusive Interview with Reality Television Star, Trista Sutter about her new book, “Happily Ever After: The Life-Changing Power of a Grateful Heart” by Jennifer Heath

spotlights 10 Beware of Chronic Stress

by Zbigniew “Tony” Chmielewski, M.D., AFAARM, MyVita Wellness Institute 20 Special Care for Special Problems: Women’s Pelvic Health

by Christopher Jayne, M.D., FACOG, Park Plaza Medical Associates 21 5 Steps to Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining

by Samara Beth Hurley, Celebrations By Samara, LLC

departments 4 Editor's Note Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Heidi Suprun 6 The "Must" List November Editor's Picks for Fashion, Food and Fun 8 Beauty Buzz Salon Happenings in Houston and Nail Lacquer News from Nicole by OPI 11 Health A Holistic Approach To Stress Management, by Dr. Sunita Kotecha 17 Fashion Fun Fall and Holiday Looks from BB1 Classic in Uptown Park 19 Beauty Confessional Cindi Rose Reveals Her All-Natural Approach 22 Entertaining Central Market Holiday Recipe: Gingerbread Men 25 Thank Heaven for Little Girls! Precious Pics Sent in by Grateful Moms & Grandmoms Around Town 26 Bell-A-Strology November Horoscope Forecasts

by Nan Hall Linke, M.A. 28 Caring - Giving Back During The Thanksgiving Season: Volunteer Opportunities

by Walter R. Black, Ph.D., Dr. Audrey Trotti 29 Caring - Bell-A-Doption: Adopt A Pet in Time for The Holidays by Bianca Burrascano

November

EDI T CHO OR'S ICE!

“MUST” List!

The best places to go, things to see, products to try, and more!

celebrate!

launch PARTY ciao bella!

"Ladies, let's get this party started" at the ciao bella! Launch Party benefiting Child Advocates, Thursday, November 14, 5:00 - 8:30 p.m. at BB1 Classic, 1101-06 Uptown Park Blvd.

Stop by and celebrate with Publisher and Editor-in-Chief, Heidi Suprun. Renowned silhouette artist, Cindi Rose (November cover girl), Jessica Alaine of Camelot's Consulting (October cover girl) and ciao bella! astrologer, Nan Hall Linke, M.A. will be on hand to meet and greet. Enjoy light bites catered

by Tony's, sip wine complements of the Tasting Room Uptown Park and enjoy musical entertainment provided by talented guitarist, Amin Safari. The first 150 guests will receive Celebrations by Samara tote bags with swag including OPI nail polish and gift certificates from ciao bella! advertisers.

"LIKE" Ciao Bella Magazine on Facebook and fill out an online entry at www.ciaobellamagazine.com for a chance to win a weekend for two at Deer Lake Lodge Spa and Resort. The winner will be announced at the launch party. Suggested donation to Child Advocates at the door is $25. A percentage of BBI Classic sales that night will also benefit the charity. To RSVP go to cblaunchparty. eventbrite.com

NARA

food!

Julie Soefer

Chef Donald Chang known to many from his successful restaurants including Uptown Sushi, Bluefin, The Fish and Miyako, has recently unveiled Nara, which may be his most creative culinary offering to date. The restaurant located in West Ave. at River Tuna Bowl,Yellowfin Sashimi, Avocado, Fuji Apple, Oaks introduces Kaiware, Rice Houstonians to an authentic Korean dining experience, mixed with Japanese cuisine, true to Chang’s culinary training and the two countries’ entwined histories.

Nara's 6,898 square foot interior is divided into four distinct areas, each offering a unique dining experience for all. Nara is open for dinner seven days a week, with service from 5-11 p.m. Monday-Saturday and 5-10 p.m. on Sunday. For more information on this a one-of-a-kind destination located at 2800 Kirby visit www.narahouston.com.

anniversary

Celebrate the 30th anniversary of one of Houston’s most wellloved restaurants, Backstreet Cafe, with a copy of their new cookbook, Backstreet Kitchen - Seasonal Recipes from Our Neighborhood Cafe. The book is written and published by award-winning husband and wife proprietors, Chef Hugo Ortega and Tracy Vaught, who also own Hugo's, Prego, and Caracol. The cookbook features more than 120 recipes from the Backstreet Cafe for your kitchen and bar.

Many popular classic dishes are included with dessert recipes by Executive Pastry Chef Ruben Ortega and cocktail recipes

by Sommelier/Mixologist Sean Beck.

Purchase the book at Backstreet Cafe, at www.backstreetcafe.net, Central Market and other locations for $34.95 + tax (+ shipping if applicable.) Backstreet Cafe is located at 1003 S. Shepherd Dr. in Houston.

entertainment!

HIGH NOTE

shopping!

Virtuosi of Houston, comprised of talented instrumentalists aged 11 to 18, will perform at an Inaugural Concert at Hobby Center for the Performing Arts, Zilkha Hall on Saturday, December 7 at 7:30 p.m. The 501 (c)(3) organization helps aspiring young musicians from all socio-economic backgrounds pursue their dreams of becoming professional musicians. Purchase tickets through Uniquely Houston®, a program established by the Hobby Center for the Performing Arts to provide a venue for Houston’s smaller and mid-sized nonprofit arts organizations in the Theater District. www.uniquelyhouston.org

AZUZ WOMEN’S CLOTHING BOUTIQUE

New to Rice Village, Azuz introduces new and eclectic designers to the Houston fashion scene. Azuz provides unique advance contemporary apparel and accessories to women who understand the language of fashion. The shopping atmosphere is comfortable and luxurious and customers enjoy the benefits of personalized service. Some of the exclusive designers carried only by Azuz includes DR34M handbags-a leather goods line by Hakeem Olajuwon, SEN, Suboo, RVN, Calvin Rucker and many more. Whether you 're looking for that perfect outfit, a killer pair of shoes or a fun accessory you will certainly find something special at Azuz.

2402 Rice Boulevard, Ste. B, 713.526.AZUZ (2989) www.azuzboutique.com

NUTCRACKER

Nutcracker Market, the must-attend shopping event of the season, promises to be bigger and better than years past.

Houston Ballet's 33rd annual event takes place Nov. 7-10 at Reliant Center. Tickets are $13 at Randalls or $14 at the door. Half-price admission is available daily 3 hours prior to closing, and children under 6 are free. Special tickets are required for a Four Day Pass, Saks Fifth Avenue Fashion Show and Luncheon, Macy's Fashion Show and Holiday Brunch, and Wells Fargo Preview Party. For more information about these special events call 713-535-3231 or go to www.houstonballet.org/Nutcracker_Market/ Special_Events/

health & beauty TRE SPA

FASHION HOUSTON

November 12-15 don't miss the fourth annual Fashion Houston, at the Wortham Center in downtown Houston. Presented by Audi, Fashion Houston combines big-city style with southern hospitality. The unparalleled event brings together talented international and local designers, celebrated models and globe-trotting style worshippers for four days of riveting runway shows and glamorous afterparties. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. nightly, with the show starting at 8 p.m. fashionhouston.net

If you're in the market for some serious head-totoe beauty boosting that won't break the bank in November, look no further than TRE SPA, 2516 Sunset Blvd. Get in the flow with a halfpriced acupuncture treatment ($50) by Cosmetic and Wellness Acupuncturist, Kathleen Funk, LAc. And, If you're going somewhere special, let one of TRE SPA's talented artists make you look spectacular with a half-priced ($47.50) make-up application. Owner/ Creative Director, Trey Gillen opened his Houston salon two years ago.

Editorial spreads with his credits have appeared in Glamour, More and WWD. For nine years, Trey styled hair for New York City’s Fashion Week for Donna Karan and Nicole Miller to name a few. He appears regularly on TV with ABC and Live Well HD Network. For an appointment, call TRE SPA 713.523.7800 trespasalon.com

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 7

beauty buzz

beauty buzz Ellis Faas Reds Party at TRE SPA

Described by Vogue Paris as "one of the most influential make-up artists of her time," Ellis Fass spends most of her time and talent these days developing her make-up brand. In October, TRE SPA 2516 Sunset Blvd, hosted an Ellis Faas Reds Party and flew in two celebrity makeup artists in from L. A. to make every lady dazzle in Ellis Faas cosmetics.

Catering by Executive Chef, Jennifer Hill, an open bar, DJ & Tarot Card readings made the night huge success.

Jim & Jo Furr, Trey Gillen Photo by Omar Mejia for www.lastnightpics.com

Nicole by OPI announces new

Jeanette Sooley & Angel Reyes

Phillip Broomhead & Pam Jarrett

Photo by Omar Mejia for www.lastnightpics.com

Photo by Omar Mejia for www.lastnightpics.com

Q [the salon] Grand Opening Owner Joel Quinones and Manager, Brad Brandt, entertained 200 movers and shakers in September at the grand opening of Q [the salon], where party goers were transported to Morocco. Colorful silks, festive lanterns, Indian carpets and hookahs awaited guests along with incense, belly dancers, celebratory champagne and Moroccan inspired food thanks to MĂŠlange Catering, Quinones and Brandt decorated the light and airy space at 1512B West Alabama with bright, happy colors, modern ceramics and inspirational paintings by local artist Ryan Geiger.

Shawn McElligot, from left, Jennifer Raymond and Erin Ayers at the Q [the salon] Moroccan-themed party.

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Heidi Dugan, left, and Karen Cook.

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

Brad Brandt, from left, Alice Oehmig and Joel Quinones.

Photo by Daniel Ortiz

8 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

limited edition Modern Family Holiday nail lacquers! Featuring five shimmering shades these holiday-inspired hues can be used to create on-trend, seasonal nail looks.

With rich jewel tones and glitter, Modern Family Holiday shades add classic color and sparkle to winter weather fashion, turning manicures into bejeweled accessories for special holiday occasions. The new nail lacquers from Nicole by OPI include: Late Blu-mer, Spark the Conversation, Who Red My Journal???, You're My Treasure and Aren't Families Grape? Limited edition Modern Family Holiday nail lacquer is available for $7.99 each at select CVS locations nationwide. For more information, visit nicolebyopi.com. Follow Nicole by OPI on Twitter @NicoleByOPI and become a Facebook fan!

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 9

Inspiring Promotion

Beware of Chronic Stress

by Zbigniew “Tony” Chmielewski, M.D., AFAARM

W

hether you‘re running late for an important meeting or facing a life-or-death situation, your body and mind react the same. An immediate release of “fight or flight” hormones enables you to work well under pressure and react quickly in order to avoid accidents. The flood of

hormones into your system also affects your heart rate, body temperature, blood pressure and energy level.

Unfortunately, this primitive response is constantly being triggered due to ongoing daily stress. The continuous perception of impending danger can start

affecting your mood, productivity and relationships. It can also contribute to a decreased ability to mentally focus or make rational decisions. Chronic stress can lead to poor sleep, anxiety, depression, high-blood pressure, poor digestion, poor lifestyle choices, mental health issues and hormonal imbalances. Ultimately, over an extended period of time high levels of stress can lead to life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks, obesity, and autoimmune disease.

Psychologists refer to stress as the “silent killer” because as you adapt to increased stress levels you begin to think that you can take on more stress.

Moodiness, depression, a change in eating habits, sleeping too little or too much, or turning to unhealthy coping behaviors all negatively affect both the body and mind.

Recognizing when your response to stress is no longer beneficial is an extremely important first step on the road to staying healthy. By learning how to manage stress and implementing a healthy diet and lifestyle you can reduce its long-term damaging effects. With regular practice of relaxation techniques such as yoga, meditation and deep breathing, and all-natural treatments such as massage, you can help mitigate the negative impact of chronic stress and increase the overall quality of your life. • Zbigniew “Tony” Chmielewski, M.D., AFAARM, is the chief medical officer of MyVita Wellness Institute in Bellaire, TX. His personal care and safety-first policy has elevated MyVita to the top level of hormone replacement centers in Texas.

To schedule your free consultation with Dr. Tony call 713-661-9995.

10 ciaobellamagazine.com | October 2013

A Holistic Approach To Stress Management

by Dr. Sunita Kotecha

Dealing with Stress Women in particular, who juggle multiple roles including wife, mother, daughter, grandmother, career woman, volunteer and caretaker to young children and/or aging parents, may feel that “the weight of the world” rests on their shoulders. For women who don’t learn to manage their stress well, the consequences can be quite devastating. For many, depression, fatigue and a host of debilitating stress related illnesses are common.

A natural holistic approach to stress management is the ancient practice of meditation.

Originating in the East, meditation has been carried down from Hindu and Buddhist scriptures. It is a spiritual practice that was first introduced to the Western world in recent decades. Meditation is a tested holistic approach to stress management which has been adopted by millions of people across the world. Through daily practice and perseverance it is possible to achieve a sense of balance, tranquility and calm naturally, despite the stress you are experiencing.

How and Why Does Meditation Work?

It is important to understand that from the time we wake up until the moment we fall asleep our minds are constantly in thought.

Meditation teaches one’s mind to calm down and stop the constant parade of thoughts. When there is a reduction in mind chatter we are able to achieve a happier and more peaceful state of mind. This is what will ultimately reduce our stress levels since it’s the ongoing stories we hear in our heads that usually cause us the most grief.

• Allow yourself to be in this meditative state for as long as you are comfortable.

• To leave the meditative state, slowly open your eyes.

• Practice this method of meditation starting with five to ten minutes everyday (or longer if you are comfortable.)

Meditation for Life The daily practice of meditation can truly teach a person to handle the stresses of life. Tapping into ones internal psyche to achieve a positive state of mind is a completely natural process. The only thing standing between you and a relatively stress-free, contented life is a daily commitment of ten to fifteen minutes of meditation. This is a short amount of time considering the long-lasting benefits that can be achieved. • Freelance writer, Dr. Sunita Kotecha, is a Licensed Podiatrist from the UK who resides in The Woodlands with her neurosurgeon husband and three children. Her passions are healthy nutrition, healing, yoga and meditation. You can read Dr. Kotecha’s blog at www.momvegandiva.com.

How to Meditate There are many different methods of practicing meditation.

Learning a few different methods and pursuing the one that feels comfortable to you is best. My life changed forever when I began practicing the following meditative technique which was taught to me by a holy Himalayan sage.

• Wear loose fitting comfortable clothing and find a quiet place.

(Meditative states are best achieved early in the morning before sunrise).

• Sit in a cross-legged position on the floor (a carpeted area or yoga mat work well).

• Place your hands in an upright position on your thighs. Allow your index finger and thumb on both respective hands to touch.

• Close your eyes and look up towards the center of your forehead.

Focus on this spot while meditating.

• Take a deep slow breath in and exhale slowly. Repeat this process throughout your meditation and focus your attention on your breathing. (Breathing is truly a miraculous process when you realize that your body does this naturally from the time you are born until you die, with no help from you.)

• While concentrating on your breathing, become aware and conscious of the thoughts that appear in your mind. As soon as you become aware that you are lost in thoughts, gently bring your mind back to your breath.

• With enough practice your mind may eventually enter into a state of pure awareness in which you are conscious, yet have no thoughts.

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 11

health

of Life

Losing Sight

by Heather Taylor

How One Woman’s Obsession With Being Thin Almost Killed Her

I

f there were a magic pill to lose weight that didn’t require exercise or strict diets, would you take it? For many women, especially those who are going through the change of life, weight gain and experiencing a slower metabolism are normal symptoms that usually mean menopause is on the way.

For Julie Orlin Pickett, a native Houstonian, weight loss and becoming skinny became an obsession. In 2006, after initially dropping a rapid 30lbs, she thought she had found the miracle to weight loss without having to lift a finger or change her diet.

“It all started when I turned 47,” Julie Orlin Pickett confided. “I weighed 192 lbs. and began going through menopause. But as the months flew by, I realized I was losing weight at an incredible rate!”

Enjoying her newfound shedding of pounds, Julie focused on the bonus of her weight loss and chucked it up to the change of life. Secretly, she didn’t want to know why she was losing weight so quickly because she had struggled with being heavy for so many years and she reveled in her new body.

“I didn’t want to know why I was losing weight, she confessed.”

So, for five years, Julie enjoyed being thin again. She lived a normal life with her husband, Dennis and her three children, Jennifer (22), Jared (18) and Jacob (14). Julie had a good, stable job and she was happy losing the weight that had caused her so much grief. She ate what she wanted, didn’t exercise at all and still had the ability to lose weight every month. What more could a woman want?

Living in Denial Almost Killed Her But in September 2011, Julie realized something was wrong. She felt weak and constantly battled flu-like symptoms. Her bones ached and although she felt great wearing a size 8 again, she began to worry that her unexplained weight loss was a symptom for something far more serious.

She finally decided to visit Dr. Anjali Varde, her doctor at the time.

Hair & Makeup by Michael DeMarse / Debbie Porter Photography

12 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

Left: In 2008, Julie at age 49 had begun dropping weight. Middle: While off of her diabetes medication in early 2012, Julie did not look well. Right: Julie today, looking and feeling healthy and fit.

Hair & Makeup by Michael DeMarse / Debbie Porter Photography

Dr. Varde put Julie through a series of tests and after the results came back, she received a shocking diagnosis. The doctor told Julie that she suffered from diabetes and that she was lucky that she wasn’t in a coma. Julie’s fasting blood sugar was at an alarming level of 344 and her A1C was 15. A1C levels measure the percentage of hemoglobin that is coated in sugar (glycated).

“Normal levels are 100-120 for fasting blood sugar and 5.7-6.3 A1C,” said Julie in a high-pitched voice. “That’s when I realized that I had been killing myself to be thin.”

Diabetes ran in Julie’s family, but she ignored the symptoms.

Symptoms that went under her radar included a cataract surgery a few years back and a lot of bubbles in her urine caused by released sugar. The thought of being skinny had distracted Julie from the underlying cause, which had reached an all time high due to neglect. Julie almost died from the disease.

A New Way of Living The doctor prescribed Julie a strict diet and Metformin in October 2011 and within 3-6 weeks her fasting blood sugar decreased to 190. But after several months, the drug began to take a toll on Julie’s digestive system and the serious side effects were unbearable. Weighing in at 130, Julie opted to take matters into her own hands and told the doctor she wasn’t going to take her meds anymore. She had convinced herself that she could treat her diabetes with a proper diet and exercise, and quit taking all medication until July 2012. Unfortunately, she didn’t stay on a strict diet and her bad habits crept back into her life, which escalated her disease.

“I told the doctor I could do it my way,” Julie declared, “I thought I could handle my diabetes with diet and exercise, but it didn’t work. In July, 2012, my fasting blood sugar shot back up to 200.”

After trial and error, Julie finally admitted defeat and agreed to take a new prescription, Glumetza, which was gentler on her stomach. She realized she couldn’t do it on her own and immediately enrolled in a 3-week course with Diabetes-Self Management expert, Debra Latimer.

“It’s been great – I feel healthier than when I was 30!” exclaimed Julie. “Now, I take my meds and I monitor what I eat every day.”

How Julie Deals with Thanksgiving Dinner When it comes to Thanksgiving dinner, Julie says it is all about

portion control. She substitutes mashed cauliflower instead of potatoes. She makes sure she doesn’t eat too much stuffing. And, she focuses on her family and health as a priority, instead of doing whatever it takes to stay thin. “I can eat turkey, but I know the value of portion control,” Julie admitted. “Instead of 30 grapes, I can only have 10! So, I am aware of how to eat in moderation.”

Her exercise program is all about consistency. It’s not about running to the finish line anymore. It’s about dedicating time to walk before she runs. Julie spends 30 minutes every day walking when she gets home from work and follows up with another 20 minutes after dinner. Today, her husband, Dennis, joins her on the jaunt around the neighborhood. Her new look on life has given her more energy. She shows up to work with zest each day at Marton Roofing Industries, Ltd. and she's getting more involved in extracurricular activities, including the Houston Rodeo Committee.

“I wear a size 8, whereas before, I wore a size 18,” Julie said. But now, my hair has grown out, my skin and nails are healthy and I’m passing for someone in my forties! The most important thing I have learned is how to stay fit by following a healthy plan. I make sure I work out 3 x a week at Hank's Gym with my trainer, Shari Lerner. I want to inspire people who have diabetes to get in shape, take the prescribed medicine and support a healthy lifestyle with a nutritious diet and exercise program.”

A Milestone in Midlife November 6 will mark Julie’s 25th anniversary with her husband, but more importantly, it will mark a milestone in her way of thinking and doing. Julie doesn’t weigh her self-esteem on being thin anymore, she has learned it takes discipline, commitment and making sure she sees her endocrinologist every three months to get an accurate blood sugar and AC1 reading.

“When I was overweight, I would always notice other women wearing cute outfits, and I wanted to wear those clothes again,” she confided. “Today, I can wear those clothes, but I know I’m doing it in a healthy way.”

It just goes to show you, in the long run, ignoring the signs that our bodies are struggling can lead to serious health issues. Being thin isn’t always the best solution if we aren't taking care to lose weight the appropriate way. There are no magic pills that can make us happy and fit, but we can relish in the magic of knowing if we take healthier steps to the finish line, we will win the race. •

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 13

14 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

Roses Cover Girl

Everything's Coming Up

by Heather J. Taylor

L

iving in Houston has its perks. We are the

fourth largest city in

the nation, have some of the best restaurants in Texas, and many would call us the nicest of southerners. We are also lucky to have a dedicated resident who spends most of her time helping others.

Homemaker and renowned silhouette artist, Cindi Rose is beyond committed to her family, friends and creating her art. She is constantly on the go, travels frequently, and her schedule makes Madonna’s schedule look light.

Photo (above): Herb Hochman Photo (left): Gittings

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 15

Debbie Porter Photography

One of Houston’s most popular socialites, Cindi Rose enjoys the fame, fortune and glamour that are part and parcel of her life.

Dedicated to preserving the lost art of silhouette cutting, Cindi cuts for a cause as one of the leading silhouette artist’s in the nation. And since life isn’t always kind, along the way, she has also experienced loss and pain, including the death of her sister, Holly Skolkin who passed away several years ago. She has been married, divorced and remarried to the same man, plastic surgeon, Dr. Franklin Rose. And she has used her resilience to maintain an active career as an artist for more than thirty years.

What Would Bring Cindi The Most Happiness in Life?

Cindi has dedicated her life to raising her children, Erica and Ben and being a devoted wife who supports her husband and his career. She volunteers for a variety of charities, chairs multiple events and spends hours and hours cutting silhouettes for weddings, anniversary parties and fundraisers. For instance, a number of years ago when she heard that her son’s school needed $10,000 for the drama club, she immediately organized an event and raised the needed money by spending two solid days, eight hours a day, in a chair, snipping away at hundreds of silhouettes.

When asked what would bring her the most happiness in life, Cindi looked puzzled for a moment and then responded with a sweet smile. “I wish I could plan my children’s weddings,” she said.

A dedicated mother, she continues to focus on her children ensuring they have the best lives possible. Rose is all about taking care of the people who surround her and going the length to support charities that are near and dear to her heart.

Herb Hochman

Herb Hochman

Cindi Rose expresses herself creatively through the things she loves to do the most; silhouette art, painting, helping others and cooking.

Herb Hochman

16 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

An Afternoon at BB1 Classic with Cindi Rose Asymetric tunic by Save The Queen Made in Italy, $349 Skinny pant by Isabel de Pedro Made in Barcelona, Spain, $289 Brass hoop handcrafted earrings

by Konplott, $89 Natural Coral Bracelets, $389 each Hair & Makeup by Michael DeMarse Debbie Porter Photography

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 17

Hair & Makeup by Michael DeMarse / Debbie Porter Photography

Hair & Makeup by Michael DeMarse / Debbie Porter Photography

Left: Cindi with her good friend, Beth Cassidy-Garcia.

Beth is wearing a Red Sequin Ruana by Minnie Rose, $239 at BB1 Classic.

RIGHT: Cindi models a bronze and black sleeveless cocktail dress with an embroidered self-tie belt by Byron Lars, $519. Black linen shawl with bronze lurex detail by Moi-Moi, $149. Both are from BB1 Classic.

When Cindi was in her teens, she worked at AstroWorld, and taught herself to cut silhouettes on the job. She found she enjoyed bringing people joy with her art. Rose put herself through college with the money she earned. After graduation Cindi found work cutting silhouettes at Disney World and Disneyland. She snipped better than anyone, cutting up to 600 silhouettes a day, beating the all time records at Disney. “I worked 14 hours a day, 5 days a week,” said Cindi Rose.“I was known as the fastest silhouette artist they had ever had!”

To this day, Cindi continues to work long days and nights. Not only is she an in-demand silhouette portrait artist who frequently travels across the country to entertain with her art; she also paints in oil and Trend: Graphic & white contrast acrylic and weldsblack bronze sculptures.

Her resume is impressive: she is Top & Skirt: Bailey Medical 44. co-owner of Utopia Spa in Uptown Park and oversees the Holly Courtesy of Foundation, Dimensions. www.dimensions6100.com Rose Ribbon which she and her husband co-founded after 18 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

her sister’s death to provide reconstructive surgery for uninsured cancer survivors. Since then the Foundation has grown in scope. Cindi has also chaired a variety of events over the years including the Cystic Fibrosis Thanksgiving Gala, Susan B. Komen “Fabulous at Fifty” event and the Arthritis Foundation Bone Bash.

An accomplished chef, when Cindi isn’t cooking delicious organic meals for her husband and friends, she’s cooking for critically ill patients at Aishel House or for Hadassah fundraising luncheons at her beautiful home. But it doesn’t end there; the list goes on and on.

Cindi Rose admits that she pushes herself. She confessed that she has a hard time declining invitations and finding balance. “I want to focus on my art and preserve the heritage of silhouette portraits, but I find myself being stretched in so many different directions.”

Cindi revealed ,“I have a hard time saying no.”

Like many women today, Cindi seems to have the whole world on her plate, and with it all she tends the garden of life with a generous spirit, making sure that everything’s coming up roses. • Cindi Rose will be cutting silhouettes at Fundamentally Toys, 2401 Rice Blvd. on November 10 and 11 from 12-5 p.m.

BEAUTY Confessional Cover Girl Cindi Rose, 50 plus

Skin Care. Among her many areas of expertise, Cindi Rose is certified in organic skincare and uses only natural, chemical-free products. She exfoliates daily with brewer's yeast, baking soda or white sugar (when traveling). To tone her skin, Cindi uses a mixture of Bragg organic apple cider vinegar and water, in place of harsh alcohol-containing astringents. To protect her skin from the sun, Cindi uses zinc oxide. To moisturize, Cindi applies naturally fragrant sweet almond oil on dampened skin. She also likes to moisturize with sunflower oil mixed with fragrant essential oils.

At bedtime, Cindi prefers to use organic cold-pressed food grade coconut oil to moisturize. She also enjoys layering in lavender or vanilla scented essential oils, for the relaxing aromatherapy benefits they provide.

Hair Care. Cindi uses hair care products with Argon oil. Among its many cosmetic benefits, argon oil smoothes hair cuticles and provides elasticity to damaged hair. If her scalp or hair becomes dry from overprocessing, she uses Bragg apple cider vinegar as a restorative treatment. Cindi also shared that fresh squeezed ginger, ginkgo biloba & mint are great natural ingredients which stimulate hair growth.

Diet. Cindi has enjoyed the benefits of raw foods and juicing since the age of 17. Cindi 's staple juices contain celery and cucumber (they contain the least amount of sugar) and she sweetens them with a little bit of apple juice. Another of her homemade elixirs is wheatgrass juice.

Cindi bleaches the wheatgrass roots in hydrogen peroxide and rinses it before juicing to ensure the absence of mold. She enjoys cooking every day when she is in town with organic local foods or organic foods from California. Some of her dietary staples include salad, cage-free eggs, hormone-free Meyenberg goat milk, kosher turkey (because the animals are treated humanely) and tuna. When she go out for a meal she enjoys Harvest Organic Grille and Season's 52 for their healthy choices. One of her occasional "guilty pleasures" is a nice juicy steak at AmĂŠricas.

Deer Lake Lodge & Spa

Organic Wellness Resort

Be Our Guest!

Pamper yourself in our tranquil, secluded setting and enjoy our recipe for a healthier you!

TheraPeuTic SPa TreaTmenTS SuPerviSed FaSTS & cleanSing mediTaTion & Yoga

Fitness. In her twenties Cindi was a fitness model. She won 11 body building contests and hosted an exercise show on television. Cindi still works out when she is in town at least five days a week at The Houstonian. Her fitness routine includes yoga, circuit training and the careful use of free weights. She also enjoys using a stretch ball.

STreTching & Walking holiSTic healTh & raW Food claSSeS & PrivaTe SeSSionS

Personal Style. Cindi believes that a great sense of style is expressed by the way a woman completes her look with an interesting scarf or a wonderful accessory. She thinks that the way a woman puts an outfit together is more important than how much it costs. Some of Cindi's favorite places to shop are BB1 Classic, Veneto Collection, Elizabeth Anthony-Esther Wolf, Nima Boutique, Jonathan Blake and Tootsies.

Stress Management. Cindi's favorite spa getaway is Hippocrites Health Institute in West Palm Beach, Florida. In her daily life, Cindi finds that her artistic endeavors bring about a sense of inner peace. She shared that she is grateful for her God-given talent and art has helped to heal her during the most difficult times in her life. Like the balance found in the yin and yang of her black and white silhouettes, Cindi Rose finds balance in life though art. •

10500 Deer Lake Lodge Rd. Montgomery, Texas 77316

800-961-4210 info@deerlakelodge.com

www.DeerLakeLodge.com

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 19

Inspiring Promotion

Special Care for Special Problems Women’s Pelvic Health

Christopher Jayne, MD, FACOG

I

f you’re a woman with a pelvic floor disorder, you’re not alone. More than one-third1 of American women have this type of health problem. Symptoms can include constipation, leakage of urine or stool (incontinence), chronic pelvic or lower back pain, pain during urination or intercourse, and frequent bladder infections.

While many women are reluctant to seek help for these symptoms, there is no reason to suffer in silence.

Pelvic floor disorders can be treated through lifestyle changes, medications, pelvic floor rehabilitation, bladder training, weight loss, Kegel exercises, or the insertion of a pessary. If these strategies are not successful, minimally invasive surgery may be an option.

“The pelvic floor is made up of a group of muscles, ligaments and connective tissue that form a sling across the pelvic opening that holds the bladder, urethra, cervix, uterus, small

intestine, vagina and rectum in place. Problems occur when these tissues are weakened or become injured, which could happen after childbirth or a hysterectomy,” said Christopher Jayne, M.D., gynecologist and urogynecologist on the medical staff at Park Plaza Hospital.

“We can perform vaginal surgery without making any abdominal incisions to help women have a shorter hospital stay, less pain, quicker recovery and faster return to daily activities compared to surgical techniques that involve abdominal incisions2.”

Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery is a Board Certified Subspecialty for both Urologists and Gynecologists. It is commonly referred to as Urogynecology. Board Certified specialists have undergone specialized training and have devoted the majority of their practice caring for women who experience pelvic floor disorders such as urinary

20 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

incontinence, overactive bladder, prolapse of the bladder, uterus or rectum, and pelvic pain. • Dr. Christopher Jayne is Board Certified in Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive surgery, he is certified by the American Association of Sexuality Educators, Counselors and Therapists and he holds a faculty appointment with the Scott Department of Urology at Baylor College of Medicine. In his primary practice with Park Plaza Medical Associates, he has extensive experience treating sexual health issues and pelvic pain in women and specializes in minimally invasive treatments of urogynecologic disorders in an advanced facility with outstanding professional staff. To make an appointment with Dr. Christopher Jayne, please call 713-526-4263. www.parkplazaurogyn.com.

1. www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pelvicfloor/conditioninfo/ pages/risk.aspx 2. www.yalesurgery.org/gastrointestinal/care/notes/index.aspx

Inspiring Promotion

5 Steps to Stress-Free Holiday Entertaining

A

s an event planner, I would suggest the obvious. Hire a planner and caterer to help you have the least stressful and fun experience. But, if you have the time and enjoy the planning process, here are some easy steps to follow…

1) Create a budget. Research menu, decorating, and table setting ideas in advance and create a spreadsheet if budget is an issue. Otherwise, you’ll be in way over your head by time you remember the last-minute details. Start creating a wish list by researching on the Internet. Visualize your party in your mind from the time your guests walk in the door until they leave. That will help you know what needs to be ordered, purchased and decorated.

2) Invite your guests. If you want to have a successful turnout, give your guests ample time to put it on their calendar. Holiday season is busy and overwhelming for many. Invitations are rolling in and people are generally choosing what they will enjoy or feel obligated to attend the most. Give your guests enough time to reserve babysitters, say yes to your party before they commit to another, and find the perfect outfit to wear. I’m a big fan of renttherunway.com if I don’t want to wear a dress more than once, but that requires enough time to reserve.

by Samara Beth Hurley

Salt, Tonic Water, Orange Juice, Cranberry Juice, Pineapple Juice, Coke, Diet Coke, Sprite, Ginger Ale and Club Soda ✔ Specialty Cocktails and Garnishes. Pick 1-3 specialty cocktails to serve, print a festive bar menu and frame for guests to choose. Coordinating holiday garnishes and swords make them fun and festive. Lemons, limes, olives, cherries, oranges, and holiday candy are perfect for garnish.

5) Have FUN! Your smile is contagious. Show your guests that hosting is not a stressful experience. If you look flustered they will be worried and may ask how they can help you during the entire party.

Hire staff to help you out. You went through all the effort to invite, coordinate, purchase and decorate. Have people there to help you clean, serve and greet guests so you don’t have to do it all. Friends mean well, but to be honest, they don’t want to be “working” your holiday party. They want to be hanging out and enjoying themselves too. • Samara Beth Hurley is an event planner and the owner of Celebrations

by Samara, LLC. With more than fourteen years of event production industry experience, contact Samara when you’re ready to " be a byher Heather Taylor guest at your own event." To learn more about servicesJ.go to www.CelebrationsBySamara.com or call Samara at 832.731.2054.

3) Use a few solid pieces. Solid pieces are a must when decorating. Don’t get too festive and carried away with your holiday party; it can end up costing you more than you expected or worse, end up looking cluttered. Use a few solid staple pieces! It’s like layering an outfit and just as simple. Stick to a solid tablecloth. Make your table setting festive by adding ornaments, flowers or candy, and scattering them across the table around your arrangements and serving pieces. Mix fall solids with patterns for the holidays. White on white with silvers make a perfect Winter Wonderland! If ordering online, give yourself advance time for returns. Items may look larger or higher in quality on the Internet than they do in person, and you don’t want to have to run around town looking for last-minute replacements. Do a table setting runthrough (including serving pieces) to make sure you didn’t miss a thing.

4) Decide what alcohol to provide and how much to buy. Depending on the age group of your

guests, plan on 2-3 drinks per person for the first two hours, and one drink per person for each extra hour. Assume 40% drink beer, 30% prefer hard liquor, and 30% sip wine.

✔ For example, if you have 50 Guests, prepare for: Beer: 120 bottles Wine and champagne: 18 bottles Hard liquor: 6 bottles (really comes down to what you want to serve) Mixers: 24 liters (again based on what you want to serve) Bottled Water: Buy a couple cases of water. You want your guests drinking bottled water on their way out and in the car. Hand it out by the door as well as at the bar. Make sure there is a designated driver for each vehicle leaving. ✔ Check your liquor cabinet in advance to see what liquor you want to restock, including:Vodka, Whiskey, Dark and Light Rum, Tequila, Triple Sec,Vermouth, Scotch, Gin, Brandy ✔ Common mixers to have at the bar, include: Margarita Mix, Margarita

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 21

entertaining

Gingerbread Men INGREDIENTS

PREPARATION

1/4 cup butter, softened 1/2 cup packed brown sugar 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 1 tsp. baking soda 1/4 tsp. ground cloves 1/2 cup dark molasses 1/2 tsp. cinnamon 1 tsp. ginger 1/2 tsp. salt Water Raisins (optional) 1/2 - 1 cup sifted confectioners' sugar (optional) 1 tbsp. lemon juice or water (optional)

Preheat the oven to 350°. Using the paddle attachment, blend the butter and brown sugar until creamy in the bowl of a stand mixer. When thoroughly combined, add the dark molasses. Sift the flour with the baking soda, cloves, cinnamon, ginger and salt. Add the sifted ingredients to the butter mixture in 3 parts, alternating with ¼ - ½ cup water. Use as little water as possible to ensure that you have a stiff dough. Roll the dough on a floured board to about ¼ inch thickness and use the cookie cutters to make the gingerbread men.

The scraps can be re-used once to form additional cookies. Place the uncooked gingerbread men onto a cookie sheet lined with parchment or a Silpat non-stick baking mat, and decorate with raisins.

Place the tray on a middle rack in the oven and bake about 8 minutes. If the dough springs back when lightly pressed, the cookies are done. Remove from the oven and cool. Should you choose to ice the cookies, stir sifted confectioners' sugar and either water or lemon juice in a small bowl, until a smooth paste forms.

Decorate the cooled cookies with the icing. Enjoy! •

Recipe courtesy of

3815 Westheimer Rd. Main: 713-386-1700 • Catering: 713-386-1750 Store Hours: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

Catering Hours: Mon-Sat, 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Cafe Hours: 8 a.m. - 10 p.m.

22 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

An i

nter v with iew

Trist Sutt a er

Theof Reality

Being Grateful

by Jennifer Heath

Trista Sutter seems to have it all.

She found true love through a fairytale romance in ABC’s original “Bachelorette”. She married a handsome, poetrywriting firefighter, Ryan Sutter, on national TV. She has two healthy children and lives in the Colorado mountains with her family.

Trista has a lot to be grateful for… and that’s a reality.

Sutter has written her first book, “Happily Ever After: The Life-Changing Power of a Grateful Heart” (Da Capo Lifelong Books, $24.99). The idea for the book began after she started posting her favorite part of the day on Twitter (#favepartofday). Her book explores how to live a thankful life through personal stories, experts’ advice and friends’ ideas. Each chapter ends with a “Happily Ever Action”, a section where she gives ideas to motivate readers to perform grateful actions.

Why was the book important for you to write now?

I feel like it would have been important to write at any point in my life. I feel like gratitude has been a stabilizing force throughout my life, whether it’s keeping me grounded in the high, high times or bringing me up in the low times. … I really wanted

Morgan Matters Photography

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 23

“I just wanted to share how gratitude has functioned in my life, and how it can truly make your life happier.”

excerpt from the book...

“

In an attempt to make this world shine a little brighter, join me in ending each day by acknowledging your "favorite part of the day." Tweet it. Post it on your Facebook wall. Record it on your phone or write it down. It can be in a fancy antique leather-bound journal, something as simple as a marble composition book, or even a pad of sticky notes. At the end of each day, reflect on what you were grateful to have experienced. If it was one of the best days of your life, you may have a hard time making a choice. If it was one of your most challenging days, you may find that you are thankful merely for being alive. No matter the highs or lows, there is always something to be grateful for... always.

”

to write about something that I would be passionate about. I write my favorite part of the day every day on Twitter and Facebook, and it’s a way for me to journal online and to focus on the positive. We took that idea and ran with it. I’m excited to do it right now because I’m a mom. I’m excited to leave that legacy for my kids and have them hopefully read it someday and be proud of the work.

write. I really tried to utilize nights and times after they had gone to bed, and when they were at school or on playdates.

I have great friends who took care of them while I got some writing done. My in-laws who live nearby would come. My mother-in-law was here for 15 days. I had a lot of help. I think it’s a huge thing.

You need to be able to ask for help, and I certainly did that.

How do you think regular moms can relate to the book?

What’s next for you?

Honestly, I feel like it’s not just necessarily for moms. It’s for men, it’s for students, It’s for everyone. It’s about gratitude. There’s a lot of the Happily Ever Actions and tips that moms, dads, and anyone can really take into their life and use to make their lives happier through gratitude. We wanted takeaways for people. I just wanted to share how gratitude has functioned in my life, and how it can truly make your life happier.

The book comes out Nov. 26.

You picked the perfect time to release a book about gratitude, didn't you?

Oh perfect. With Thanksgiving and the holidays, I think people will be even more welcoming to the topic. If they haven’t already been embracing gratitude, then hopefully over Thanksgiving and Christmas, the times when people are more thankful, they’ll start or continue or enhance their use of the concept.

How was it to write a book, be a wife and a mother. How did you balance all of this?

I have great help. Ryan really stepped up when I needed to get writing done.

He would take the kids out for little adventures and give me some time to

24 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

I actually am working on a line of gift products by a company called Glory Haus (gloryhaus.com). We’re releasing the Grateful Heart collection to coincide with the book. I keep hearing one of people’s favorite Happily Ever Actions was the appreciation jar so we're doing an appreciation jar and a favorite part of the day jar. We’re also doing a journal, a bookmark, picture frames, wall art and a pillow that says ‘Grateful Heart’. Lots and lots of fun stuff. I’m working on that pretty extensively right now, and I’m really, really excited about it. Hopefully somewhere down the road, maybe I can do a children’s book. I’d love to do a children’s book about being grateful.

What are some things that have helped you stay married for almost 10 years?

Humor is a big one. Forgiveness.

Respect. Love and friendship. Living in Colorado hasn’t hurt. Those are biggest things. Shared love of family and love for our kids. • Stay up-to-date with Trista through her website, tristasutter.com. There you can preorder her book, learn about her upcoming Glory Haus collection and find out more about ways she stays grateful.

Precious Pics Sent in by Grateful Moms & Grandmoms

THANK HEAVEN for little girls!

Julia, Age 6 months

Cora, Age 2 1/2

Mia June, Age 3

Shivali Nilesh, Age 7

Aralyn Ann, Age 3

Kyla Rose, Age 5

Krishna Nilesh, Age 13

Jessica Johanna, Age 16

Ava Simone, Age 3

Lorelei Elyse, Age 3

Evelyn June, Age 1

"She's not so little anymore, but I still thank Heaven for her and she'll always be my little girl." ~Judi McNall

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 25

November Horoscopes

by Nan Hall Linke, M. A.

Bell-A-strology November opens with a Big Bang, as Uranus moves

back to shove Pluto further than any of us is comfortable with.

This is a pattern of rebellion against authority that occurs once in a generation. It is the 1960's Part 2, revisited for the 3rd of 5 times in three years. We are diving deep this month with so much energy in fixed water sign Scorpio, which will make our values and choices clear, but not always comfortable. The Solar Eclipse at the New Moon on 11/3 increases the clarity of the new path we are to take and between 11/3 and the Full Moon of 11/17 the depth of our awareness will be life changing and jaw dropping in some cases. Until Mercury goes direct on 11/10 and hits its point of departure on 11/25, feeling must lead to healing or we will suffer for nothing. On 11/21 the Sun enters the playful joyous sign of Sagittarius and we will all be thankful.

SCORPIO

(October 24-November 21) Life as you understood it has changed drastically this month. This is the beginning of the shedding of old ideas and relationships and making a new path for yourself. You will make serious choices carefully, particularly about your resources and finances. Mars is working for you in Virgo to bring support from hidden sources and new friends. Trust your intuition.

It has never been more accurate or necessary.

SAGITTARIUS (November 22-December 21) Events happening behind the scenes, possibly in secret, will change your life this month. Never one to keep quiet, you would be advised to watch, wait and ask questions later. Jupiter, your ruling planet is in water sign Cancer and is going to rest for a few months beginning 11/6. Slow down and learn the lessons the patterns in your life are trying to teach you. Mars is energizing your career sector so make the most of it.

26 ciaobellamagazine.com | November 2013

CAPRICORN (December 22-January 19) Your friendships will deepen this month as events will show you who your true friends are. You are stronger than you know and you are integrating new ideas about yourself into your life plans.

Jupiter is balancing and growing your relationship sector in amazing ways, slowly and thoroughly. Venus enters your sign on 11/5 and brings greater prosperity, joy and opportunity into your life.

Always the hardest worker, you may find things come to you with greater ease.

AQUARIUS (January 20-February 18) The square from Uranus to Pluto on 11/1 has been working to change your life drastically for the past year. Now you are clear about your needs and your direction. Get down to business as the Scorpio energy is in your career sector and fate is calling you to step out and take risk so you can create new aspects of the old and bold new ventures for long term success and satisfaction.

PISCES (February 19-March 20) As one of the 3 water signs, you have been drifting on autopilot for the past few months.

With Neptune your ruler of dreams and visions finally moving forward again on 11/13 you will have to wake up and live in the world of results and consequences and solve problems with skill. After 11/21 the Sun enters your career sector and the spotlight is on you. Mars in your relationship sign of Virgo all month stirs up conflict, imagined or real and there are many decisions to make and fires to put out.

ARIES (March 21-April 19) As a naturally impatient, decisive leader, you have not enjoyed this period of stretching inward. With so much energy occupying water signs, you may be boiling over in all directions. The Solar Eclipse on 11/3 may affect your financial future, so be diligent and careful with your resources this month.

Your ruling planet Mars is a troublemaker for you when it lives in Virgoland. Take up yoga so you can learn to slow down and relax and stop the worrying habit. Venus in Capricorn helps your career energy and brings more to you without a fight.

TAURUS (April 20-May 20) Your relationship life is lit up like a Roman Candle this month and new forms of old relationships, as well as new relationships, are guaranteed. Your practical earth energy is a natural complement to the many water planets and you are helped out by Mars and Pluto in the other earth signs Virgo and Capricorn. Your bases are loaded and your attitude is bringing you to a place you have long wanted to be: at peace.

GEMINI (May 21-June 21) If people think you have gone insane this month, they may be right. With your ruling planet Mercury in retrograde and joining depressing realistic Saturn for the 3rd time in 2 months, your lighthearted, fun loving nature is not exactly soaring. With Mars moving into your family and home sector to stir up trouble, it is a month to get through with your fabulous sense of humor guiding you. It is time to grow up and develop your many strengths and make peace with your Shadow. Your genius comes from this source.

CANCER (June 22-July 22) This will be a great month for you, personally and professionally. With Jupiter, the bringer of opportunity slowing down on 11/6, you will have time to enjoy your progress and make plans for 2014 when you go into Phase 2 of a total life overhaul. The planets in Scorpio energize your creativity and depth so something amazing is stirring in you waiting to be born.

This is the best time in your life for self-development and self-acceptance, so don't skimp on self-investment activities.

LEO (July 23-August 22) With Mars in your earnings sector, you should exceed your expectations this month. Always an optimistic, creative, social creature, this will serve you well when others are often pessimistic and need you to plan a party and be the entertainment. Jupiter is working behind the scenes to protect you from harm and unnecessary life lessons so relax and be grateful for your many talents and opportunities this month. Spend some time in your home and make it your castle and share it with friends and family.

VIRGO (August 23-September 22) With Mars in your sign, you will be like a house on fire on behalf of change and problem solving activities. You may accomplish in one month what would usually take a year. Hesitation and worry has taken a vacation as your instinct and intuition will override your caution.

Even though your ruling planet Mercury is off its path, your mind has never been sharper and deeper. Your ability to problem solve is in high demand so put yourself in the company of those who appreciate and need your wisdom.

LIBRA (September 23-October 23) As a person who is obsessed with relationships, this will not be the focus of your life this month. Venus moves into your home and family sector and you will be spending more time still and not rushing around so much. It is your time to rest and regenerate after an insane October. Your mind is focused on finances and how to prepare for your future. With no planets in air signs, you may find yourself watching more and participating less. Jupiter has been good to your career but you can take a break now. •

A professional astrologer since 1971, Nan Hall Linke, M.A. has been featured on television, radio and in magazines and newspapers. She is also a marriage and family therapist who has taught in Houston at the CG Jung Center and Spectrum Cen­ter.

Find out more about Nan and her services at www.nanhalllinke.com, www.healingpowerofritual.com or call her at 713/520-1551.

November 2013 | ciaobellamagazine.com 27

caring

Giving Back During the Thanksgiving Season

"Those who bring sunshine into the lives of others cannot keep it from themselves." James M. Barrie (1860-1937)

URBAN RENEWAL

EVENT

November 16 from 10:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Watershed Market is hosting a volunteerdriven “Urban Renewal” clean-up event of its future home at 2322 Polk Street in the East Downtown District (EaDo). This coincides with the completion of Phase 1 of Houston’s First International Promenade. Watershed Market is a new destination showcasing local food purveyors, fashion and jewelry designers, furniture makers, artists and innovators from Houston and the surrounding area. A DJ will entertain volunteers and following the improvements, a block party featuring a variety of Houston’s popular food trucks will be held on Dallas St. With a spring 2014 grand opening, Watershed Market’s goal is to create a curated market focusing on sustainable living and diverse entertainment that will endeavour to become a “No Trace Left Behind” destination. Watershed Market has launched a Kickstarter campaign running Oct 23- Dec 4 to raise the infrastructure funds needed for a permanent venue. Several original works of art have been donated as “rewards” for those who donate $100 or more to the campaign. The grand opening is scheduled for March 2014. For more information and to volunteer and go to www.watershedmarket.com. •

L

ooking for ways to give back to the community this holiday season?

Volunteer Houston offers a wide range of opportunities to enrich your spirit while reaching out to make a difference in the world.

A United Way agency's Montrose area headquarters is recruiting volunteers to take on a weekly weekday shift of four hours. Comprehensive training will be provided.

HELP MAKE “A VISIT FROM ST. NICHOLAS” POSSIBLE on December

who has arrived in Houston for the long journey to recovery, and bring them to the hospital where they will receive treatment. A network of volunteer pilots flies patients to Bush, Hobby, and smaller airports in greater Houston. If you can spare an hour or two a month transporting a patient in your car, the agency will try to schedule your assignments at times convenient to you.

BECOME A HOST FAMILY FOR A FOREIGN EXCHANGE STUDENT

PLAN A SPECIAL THANKSGIVING, HANUKKAH OR CHRISTMAS PROJECT with your family and

6th this year at selected local elementary schools. Become a jolly volunteer by helping to stuff several thousand backpacks with toys for needy children at a warehouse in southwest Houston on the evening of November 14. Tasty refreshments will be on hand to keep you happily energized.

A local chapter of a foreign exchange program is beginning to recruit host families for the spring semester. Students from around the world will begin arriving in late December to attend schools throughout the greater Houston area.

The students are 16 to 18 years old, speak English, and have their own living allowances. Call now to find out more about this exciting cultural experience available to you and your family.

FIELD CALLS FROM A WOMEN'S HOTLINE on matters such as domestic

abuse, rape, and economic hardship and make needs-assessment reports for follow up by staff social workers.

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TAKE A DRIVE TO THE AIRPORT AND PICK UP A CANCER PATIENT

friends and share the joy of the holiday season. You might like to participate in a food, clothing, or toy drive for the underprivileged or plan visitations to shut-ins. Each year at this time, Volunteer Houston is in touch with social service agencies, shelters, hospitals, and nursing homes that would welcome your holiday gesture.

Please call now for ideas. •

For more info on these and other opportunities, contact Volunteer Houston Recruitment Director, Dr. Walter R. Black at 713-965-0031 M-F, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. or go to www.volunteerhouston.org.

Bell-A-doption

caring

A

dopting a pet is a wonderful way to both give and receive love especially during the holidays. Citizen’s for Animal Protection (CAP) has many adorable dogs, cats, puppies, kittens and other small furry animals available for adoption. With new animals arriving at the shelter daily, the CAP website features only a portion of their lovable residents. Before going to the shelter located at 17555 Katy Freeway, CAP recommends that you first go to their website, review their adoption information and print and fill out a copy of their adoption application. To confirm an animal’s location, you will need to call and ask if an animal is at the shelter or in foster care. There’s not a moment to waste! The “love of your life” is waiting for you!

Call (281) 497-0591 or go to www.cap4pets.org for more info Daisy Although her name is Daisy, this sweet Great Pyrenees mix girl sees the world through rose colored glasses. She is an inquisitive and playful girl at heart, and at 64 pounds there is a lot of Daisy to love. Daisy loves the company of other dogs and does prefer to be in a dog-only home.

Daisy is living it up in her Weekend Sponsor home. Please contact CAP to see if she will be at the shelter this weekend. (A21076341)

Pebbles Brown tabby kitten Pebbles is wide-eyed in amazement you have not come to adopt her yet! She is a pretty girl who is wise beyond her three months and will make a loving companion for anyone who fancies felines. (A20988512)

Buddy Buddy, a terrier mix dog. He is almost a year old and is just under 10 pounds. He is a staff favorite and is very lovable. He will need some training, but will make a wonderful pet. (20425354)

Iota Two month old Campbell’s Dwarf Hamster girl Iota is showing the world good things do indeed come in small packages. Iota has six sisters and four brothers who are all looking for homes, and not one of them looks like another! (A21166477) •

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The NEW covered patio at TTR-Uptown Park!

IT’S OUR 10th ANNIVERSARY...

COME Celebrate WITH US!

With four locations in the Houston area, The Tasting Room offers beautiful event spaces for networking events, receptions, wine tastings, gourmet dinners and private location buy-outs. Contact the Events Department today and find out how to make your event the talk of the season.

WWW.TASTINGROOMWINES.COM Uptown Park

CITYCENTRE

River Oaks

Kingwood

713-622-4477

281-822-1505

713-526-2242

281-361-0044

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