October - November - December 2018 CIRCA by CIRCA Magazine

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n at u r e ' s d e c o r at i n g b o u n t y • h a l l ow e e n at oa k wo o d c e m e t e ry • ' t i s t h e s e a s o n t o b e c r e at i v e • e a s y b r e e z y h o l i day s t h e c h r i s t m a s t r e e t r a d i t i o n • s w e e t d r e a m s • roa d t r i p r e a dy • o u t d o o r l i v i n g t r e n d s f o r 2 0 1 9 • s l e e p r e l i e f p e T i t e s w e e t s f o r h o l i day e n t e rta i n i n g • a f u n - f i l l e d fa l l • e s tat e p l a n n i n g e s s e n t i a l s • h i s t o r i c h o m e t o u r • A N D M O R E

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A WORD FROM THE PUBLISHER

Fall-la-la-la-la! Happy fall-idays! As you can see, I have fallen in love with autumnal puns just as much as I have fallen in love with the season itself (this little bit of humor is courtesy of my daughter, Grace, and her creative play-on-word skills). Fall has arrived, and before we know it, the holidays will be here too. After another fun-filled summer packed with NC’s signature sunshine and heatwaves, autumn is here and brought with it cooler temperatures. Along with the chillier weather come the parts of the year and festivities I look forward to most – evenings by the firepit roasting s’mores, jumping into leaf piles, pumpkin carving, apple picking, holiday baking, and family memory-making. With this issue, I’m excited to share a splash of spookiness, a tad bit of travel, a dash of decorating, a hint of holidays, and a sprinkle of sweetness … the perfect recipe for all things fall. With features such as “Halloween At Oakwood Cemetery,” “Hidden Gems – Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre,” and “The Historic Home Tour,” as well as “A Fun-Filled Fall In The Forest,” your fall-iday calendar will be full of fun (or frightening!) festivities. “Drive Wisely” reminds us to stay safe while on the roads this busy season, and “Road Trip Ready” provides snacking and stretching suggestions to make your holiday travel time a little less tedious. “Nature’s Decorating Bounty” and “’Tis The Season To Be Creative” will kick those decorating daydreams into high gear – whether you’re searching for inspiration for adding natural elements into your holiday décor or want to tap into your crafty side, we’ve got you covered. “The Christmas Tree Tradition” is a can’t-miss that is sure to get you in the spirit of the season, and “Happy Holidays” provides strategies for navigating your way to a healthy, stress-free celebration. “Petite Sweets For Holiday Entertaining” offers mini sweet confections to cap off any party, while “Easy Breezy Holidays” shares tips and tricks for a calm and collected baking season, as well as two recipes for tasty treats that will set you up for holiday happiness. I leaf you here (another fall-themed pun by Grace) to enjoy these fabulous fall features, and the many more that await you here in this edition of CIRCA Magazine. And I would be remiss if I didn’t remind you to visit our many wonderful, loyal advertisers who made it possible for us to share this great issue with you – and please tell them you found them in CIRCA. I hope you have a fantastic fall-iday season, and I’ll see you again in 2019!

O C TO B E R • N OV E M B E R • D EC E M B E R 2018 6 A Fun-Filled Fall In The Forest: Incredible Sights, Fearful Frights, Musical Nights, And Christmas Lights 8 Nature’s Decorating Bounty 10

Driveable Destination – Halloween At Oakwood Cemetery

Navigating The Season’s Sweets And Treats

14 Sweet Dreams – How To Create A Sleep-Friendly Bedroom 16

Drive Wisely

’Tis The Season To Be Creative

Hidden Gems – Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre

Good Reads

Petite Sweets For Holiday Entertaining

Sneak Peek – Outdoor Living Trends For 2019

Sleep Relief

Estate Planning Essentials

32 36

Easy Breezy Holidays – Tips And Tricks For A Calm And Collected Cooking Season Road Trip Ready

38 Happy Holidays – Strategies For Navigating Your Way To A Healthy, Stress-Free Holiday 40

The Christmas Tree Tradition

Sometimes Less Is More

Driveable Destiantion – Christmas In Wake Forest: The Historic Home Tour

Step Up Your Game With Vision Therapy

48 Changing With The Seasons 50 Our Heritage Revisited – The Ruth Snyder Garden

PUBLISHER & EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Kent Lower CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amy Pierce Rhonda Benvie Joe Raboine Anna Bolton REX Sleep Disorder Ctr. Jill Bright Dolores Riggins Patti Fralix Jennifer Smart Dr. Jason Gladwell Dr. Edmond Suh Holly Hopkins WakeMed Suzanne Lucey Thomas Walters Jessica McMican Dr. Cassandria E. Warr Stacey Moritz Todd Nelson Shannon Parker CONTACT INFORMATION BallPointe Publishing & Design, LLC P.O. Box 1182 Wake Forest, NC 27588 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com www.circamagazine.com ADVERTISING SALES 919.453.2555 • info@circamagazine.com MANAGERS Kent Lower & Mitch Lower Printed by Theo Davis Printing, Inc.

Nick Honeycutt 919.380.5949 • nhoneycutt@theodavis.com Publisher Photo by Christina Bowman Photography, LLC

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CIRCA Magazine is published quarterly by BallPointe Publishing & Design, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced or transmitted without the written permission of the publisher. Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of the information contained within; however, BallPointe Publishing & Design assumes no liability for accuracy or omissions.

A FUN-FILLED FALL IN

THE FOREST INCREDIBLE SIGHTS, FEARFUL FRIGHTS, MUSICAL NIGHTS, AND CHRISTMAS LIGHTS BY ANNA BOLTON

ooking for family fun this fall? The Town of Wake Forest has an exciting lineup of free community events and affordable entertainment options scheduled through the end of the year. With no details to plan, supplies to purchase, or messes to clean up, Town events and programs make it easy to meet your neighbors, make new friends, and support your community. From connecting with nature to enjoying your favorite holiday tunes, it’s all covered here … so save these dates and get ready to enjoy a fun-filled fall in the forest.

October 25 from 4:30 - 8:30 PM at the Flaherty Park Community Center, located at 1226 N. White Street. Presented by Tuscan Ridge Animal Hospital and Champion Windows, this year’s festivities will include a costume contest, face painting, cupcake walk, pumpkin patch, and a variety of other ghostly games and activities. Free pumpkins will be given away while supplies last. The best costumes will be featured on the Town’s social media pages, so get creative! This event is free and open to the public. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Halloween.”

INCREDIBLE SIGHTS

Rockin’ the Forest Assembling some of the top musical acts in our area, Rockin’ the Forest offers local audiences a chance to discover first-rate performers in a variety of musical genres. On Friday, October 26, the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts welcomes the Magic Pipers, followed by Jim Quick & Coastline on Friday, December 28. Future Rockin’ the Forest concerts are scheduled on January 18 (The Legacy Motown Review), February 22 (Big Love), and March 15 (The Catalinas). Advance tickets are $10. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Rockin.”

The Wall That Heals The Wall That Heals, a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, along with a Mobile Education Center, is coming to E. Carroll Joyner Park, located at 701 Harris Road, on Thursday-Sunday, October 18-21. Free and open to the public, the exhibit will be available 24-hours-a-day beginning at 8:00 AM Thursday, October 18 through 2:00 PM Sunday, October 21. The Welcoming Ceremony will be Thursday, October 18 at 4:00 PM. The Wall honors the more than three million Americans who served in the U.S. Armed forces in the Vietnam War and bears the names of the more than 58,000 men and women who made the ultimate sacrifice in Vietnam. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “wall.” Fall Foliage Tours Enjoy the vibrant reds, oranges, and yellows of autumn while also learning about native trees during two “Fall Foliage Tours” on Wednesday, October 24 at E. Carroll Joyner Park. Urban Forestry staff will offer free one-hour tours at 10:00 AM and 2:00 PM. Folks of all ages are invited and no registration is required. Anyone interested in participating is encouraged to meet at the information kiosk located adjacent to the Joyner Park parking lot. For more information, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “fall foliage.”

FEARFUL FRIGHTS Halloween Spooktacular The Wake Forest Parks, Recreation & Cultural Resources Department will host its annual “Halloween Spooktacular” on Thursday, 6

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MUSICAL NIGHTS

CHRISTMAS LIGHTS Wake Forest truly comes alive during the Christmas season, so we’ve assembled a list of holiday happenings guaranteed to put you in the Christmas spirit. For more information on any of the following holiday events, visit wakeforestnc.gov and search “Christmas in Wake Forest.” Lighting of Wake Forest Experience the wonder and magic of the holiday season at the annual “Lighting of Wake Forest” on Friday, November 30. Sponsored by Traditions at Wake Forest and presented by Wake Forest Downtown, Inc., the tree lighting will take place in Centennial Plaza, located at 301 S. Brooks Street, the gateway to the Wake Forest Town Hall. The evening’s festivities will get underway at 6:00 PM with the lighting of the Town’s 30-feet-tall Christmas tree, followed by Santa Claus’ exciting arrival aboard a Wake Forest fire truck. The event will also include performances by local choirs, a children’s craft

December 2018

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Wake Forest Christmas Historic Home Tour The Wake Forest Historic Preservation Commission and the Wake Forest Woman’s Club will present their biennial Christmas Historic Home Tour on Saturday, December 1 from 1:00 – 7:00 PM. Offered only in even-numbered years, the Christmas Historic Home Tour is a self-guided tour featuring several Wake Forest homes and other properties decorated for the holidays and open for viewing. Tickets are available for $20 each (price includes tax), and a limited number of tickets will be sold, with none being sold on the day of the tour. Downtown Holiday Open House Visit historic Downtown Wake Forest and experience a hearty dose of holiday cheer during the Downtown Merchant’s Holiday Open House on Saturday, December 1. Sponsored by Wake Forest Downtown Inc., the Downtown Holiday Open House begins at 10:00 AM and will include special offers and complimentary refreshments at participating shops and restaurants, live entertainment, a food drive to benefit Tri-Area Ministry, and fun-filled activities for kids and families. A variety of special events and activities will also be offered throughout the day at no cost, including pictures with Santa.

Christmas parade features over 100 colorful floats; several high school marching bands; entries from local businesses, churches, schools, and civic groups; and, of course, Santa Claus! Sponsored by PowerSecure and presented by Wake Forest Downtown, Inc., the parade takes place Saturday, December 8 at 1:00 PM, rain or shine. Christmas Jubilee Concert Celebrate the joy of the holiday season at the Renaissance Centre during the Christmas Jubilee Concert featuring Celtic Angels Christmas on Saturday, December 8 at 7:30 PM and Sunday, December 9 at 3:00 PM. The Sheeva Quintet, Celtic Knights, and Angel Dancers with Trinity Band Ensemble of Dublin captivate audiences of all ages with the Magic of Christmas in an awe-inspiring show which encompasses vocal and instrumental seasonal and Irish favorites along with spectacular world class champion Irish dancing. This show is a true holiday celebration of Christmas in Ireland. Tickets are $25 each plus tax.

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STAY CONNECTED! Always be the first to know about Town of Wake Forest announcements, programs, and special events by signing up for ENotifier at wakeforestnc.gov/enotifier.aspx, downloading the Town of Wake Forest app at wakeforestnc.gov/app.aspx, visiting the town’s website at wakeforestnc.gov, or following the town on social media @ TownofWakeForest.  Anna Bolton is the marketing and business relations specialist for the Town of Wake Forest. To learn more about town events, sponsorship opportunities, and how you can be involved, contact Anna at 919-610-4916 or abolton@wakeforestnc.gov.

GET IN GOOD WITH AN EXPERT Because I know the risks in the area, I’ll use my local expertise to help you choose the right amount of protection. And I’ll be there to help you as your coverage needs change. Call or stop in for a free, no-obligation Personalized Insurance Proposal today.

Holiday Artisans Market The Wake Forest Holiday Artisans Market will take place Saturday, December 1 from 9:00 AM – 3:00 PM inside the Renaissance Centre. ARTS Wake Forest and the Wake Forest Farmers Market are pleased to present the annual holiday market featuring handmade items in a wide range of prices. Wake Forest Christmas Parade Celebrate the holiday season at Wake Forest’s largest community event. Widely considered one of our area’s most popular holiday spectacles, Wake Forest’s annual

Wake Forest Children’s Choir Holiday Concert The Wake Forest Children’s Choir, under the direction of Kasie Brooks, will present an evening of holiday favorites on Tuesday, December 11 at 6:00 PM at the Wake Forest Renaissance Centre for the Arts. This event is free and open to the public.

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activity, complimentary pictures with Santa in the Town Hall lobby, and free hot cocoa and cookies while supplies last.

remove the spiders and webbing, and replace with an assortment of colorful leaves, evergreen stems, pinecones, and ribbon for a fall wreath to complement your autumn design scheme.

BY RHONDA BENVIE

NATURE'S DECORATING

BOUNTY

For the mantel, turn unadorned frames of various sizes into stunning accessories for showcasing an assortment of autumn leaves in different colors, sizes, and textures by simply gluing acorns onto them. Fill glass cylinders or jars with acorns to form a somewhat flat surface and place a votive candle atop them. Place the aforementioned bare branches in additional vases, along with fall leaves and flowers, for added height. With just a few items, some natural elements, and a little bit of time and effort, you have created a beautiful decorating focal point that brings the outdoors in (add a few ghoulish accessories for Halloween that can be quickly removed once it’s time to turn your decorating focus to Thanksgiving). For a natural table centerpiece, scatter wood rounds and place miniature pumpkins in similar sizes atop them. For added personality, stencil “FALL” or “BOO!” on these pumpkins, or use vinyl adhesive letters that can be removed if you want to use the same pumpkins for both Halloween and Thanksgiving. Decorate in-between the rounds with evergreen leaves and votive candles. Placing leaves under chargers will give your autumn tablescape a warm seasonal glow, providing it with elegant details that will help make any holiday meal more memorable.

t’s that time of year again – the season when we start dreaming of holiday decorating. Thankfully Mother Nature provides us with an abundance of decorating elements this time of year, so with just a little creativity and a bit of craftiness, you can easily transform your living spaces to reflect the spirit of the season.

This season is one of leaves changing from gorgeous greens to vibrant reds and oranges. Evergreens continue to share their leaves in all types of textures. Branches are bare, providing an idyllic embellishment option. Fun and festive autumn decorating elements – pinecones, acorns, nuts, and the like – are falling to the ground, just waiting to be gathered so the beauty of the outdoors can be brought in. Beautiful berries are offering us the magnificent red hues of fall and winter. Gardens are producing pumpkins and gourds, as well as iconic floral splendor. This natural glory that can be found right in your own backyard (or at your local garden center) provides simple, cost-effective, and striking decorating opportunities that will easily carry you from the spookiness of Halloween to the harvest of Thanksgiving to the merriment of Christmas. A bare branches wreath that can be displayed where you currently have a framed photo or work of art can be embellished with fake spider webbing and artificial spiders for a spooky Halloween effect. Once the calendar switches from October to November, simply 8

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Pumpkins offer endless decorating possibilities. Paint them in any color and pattern of your choosing. Maybe polka dots are your taste, or perhaps you prefer stripes. Whichever way you go, mix and match sizes and colors for a dramatic statement. Need an ice bucket for your Halloween party or Thanksgiving feast? Cut a hole in the top of a large pumpkin, clean it out, and fill with ice and your favorite beverages. Create a pumpkin planter that is perfect for these events by filling a cleaned-out pumpkin with succulents of various colors and shapes (for a spooky Halloween effect, glue artificial spiders to the pumpkin’s exterior) – voila, a unique natural centerpiece. (Because pumpkins have a limited time before they start to decay, it’s best to make this the day before or the day of your event. Also, spray pumpkins and gourds, including the inside of carved ones, with one tablespoon of bleach per quart of water to preserve them longer).

Bold red berries are plentiful this time of year, so take advantage and cover the multi-use branches wreath described previously, capped with a burlap bow for added beauty, texture, and dimension. Utilize them in glass vases lined up on your holiday table. If you do nothing but that, you’ll have made quite the decorating statement. For more effect, fill those vases with these berries, as well as pinecones from your backyard, pine needles gathered from your outdoor beds, holly leaves clipped from your favorite holly bush, and cinnamon sticks for an instant decorating addition with a nice scent – these can also be used anywhere in your home where you’d like to add easy and inexpensive holiday accents and aroma. And nothing says Christmas more than the quintessential poinsettia – by featuring these iconic plants on tables, counters, shelves, and mantles, they pretty much do the decorating for you.

What autumn decorating scheme would be complete without fall flowers? One of the most popular and easiest ways to decorate your home for the season, mums automatically spread autumn joy into any space. Casually displayed by the fireplace, presented on a sofa end table, or filling a vintage bucket or farmhouse basket placed by the front door, this seasonal staple will instantly add a touch of fall.

There are countless ways to use nature’s bounty when decorating for the holidays. So take a walk outside and let your surroundings inspire you – once your creative juices start flowing, let the decorating commence … and before you know it, your home will be warm, festive, welcoming, and ready for the joy of the season.  Rhonda Benvie is the owner of Help Me Rhonda Interiors, 1600 Heritage Commerce Court, Suite 103 in Wake Forest and Open Door Furniture & Accents, a furniture and accessories store also in Wake Forest. Visit www.helpmerhondainteriors.com or www.opendoorfurnitureandaccents.com, or call 919-263-9054.

After the fall holidays comes winter and Christmas. Many of these same ideas can be incorporated as we start dreaming of a white Christmas, mistletoe, and the aroma of cinnamon and peppermint.

’tis the season

in WAKE FOREST

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Lighting of Wake Forest

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Historic Home Tour North Main Street

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Downtown Holiday Open House

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WF Holiday Artisans Market

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Wake Forest Christmas Parade

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Celtic Angels Christmas

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WF Community Youth Choirs Concert Renaissance Centre Santa’s Enchanted Workshop Renaissance Centre

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Wake Forest Town Hall

South White Street

Renaissance Centre South White Street

Renaissance Centre

The Musical

wakeforestnc.gov search “Christmas in Wake Forest” CIRCA Magazine

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DRIVEABLE

DESTINATION HALLOWEEN AT OAKWOOD CEMETERY

This is a story straight from It’s a Wonderful Life, that everpresent Christmas classic about the important ways one life touches so many others. But with no George Bailey to save the day, this particular tale is dark and grim and suited for Halloween. The tragedy happened on October 19, 1908. Ten-

BY JENNIFER SMART

The historic graveyard dates to the aftermath of the Civil War, when the remains of Confederate soldiers lay moldering in hastilydug holes all across Wake County. Most had been buried near military or field hospitals, their graves marked with wooden headboards and left untended. This worried the Raleigh women who had lost husbands and sons in the war, so they formed a group to establish a proper cemetery within the city. After receiving a dona-

month-old Sarah Greason, baby daughter of George Greason, Superintendent of Wake Forest’s Glen Royall Cotton Mill, was sick or colicky or cutting teeth. The doctor wrote an ordinary – and safe – prescription. He had no idea what was to come – that the druggist would accidentally send the family home with a mislabeled bottle of morphine. The Greasons gave their daughter a single dose and she immediately went limp. Horror-struck, they raced back to the doctor, but it was already too late. The baby died a few hours later and was

buried at Raleigh’s historic Oakwood Cemetery. hether chilling or mysterious, true accounts like this one continue to fascinate – especially around Halloween. And Oakwood Cemetery, which has more than 22,000 souls at rest within the boundaries of its 102-acre site, is a repository for thousands of stories just waiting to be discovered. So as the calendar has flipped to another October, now is the perfect time to consider visiting the tomb-scattered landscape of this “Driveable Destination.” 10

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tion of land northeast of the capitol from planter and state legislator Henry Mordecai, a cadre of volunteers collected and reinterred 538 Confederate dead. With additional bodies transported from battlefields as far north as Gettysburg and Virginia, the number of gravesites soon climbed to more than 2,800. The cemetery then expanded to include the general citizenry, and by 1870, it was building a reputation as Raleigh’s preeminent resting place. Of course, the vast majority of cemeteries come with ghost stories – and Oakwood is no different. The most famous is the legend of the Spinning Angel, also known as the Guardian of Oakwood. The monument, which marks the 100-year-old grave of Etta Rebecca White Ratcliffe, is said to spin its head exactly 12 times around each Halloween at midnight. The cemetery holds other ghostly mysteries as well. In 2015, WNCN-TV reporter Steve Sbraccia entered the grounds with paranormal investigators for a tongue-in-cheek piece on neighborhood haunts. But, in his words, the experience turned “a little weird” when he encountered unexplained phenomena including a sudden burst of cold air and an invisible force that pinched the side of his neck, leaving a welt. To see Sbraccia’s full report, visit his YouTube channel at youtu.be/kNM3bjY_Uio. Could it be that spirits are speaking from beyond the grave? If you put aside the shivers and shadows and strange ghostly echoes, what remains are those odd connections that are hard to ex-

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plain. For instance, Baby Sarah is linked to today’s bustling Wake Forest in the most surprising of ways. After her burial at Oakwood Cemetery, the Greason family returned home with their remaining children, among them a son named Murray. Murray Greason went on to attend Wake Forest College where he became a sports hero, then a successful basketball coach whose team won the 1953 Southern Conference Title. In 1956, he was named the Atlantic Coast Conference Coach of the Year. Today Greason’s son, Murray Greason, Jr., is a member of the board of the Wake Forest Historical Museum. It’s not an exaggeration to say the Greasons helped put Wake Forest on the map. And as Baby Sarah is part of their story, she’s also part of ours. So if you feel a presence while visiting Oakwood Cemetery this October, perhaps it’s no more than a friendly reminder that, no matter how long or short our time on earth, we’re all in this together. However, if a spinning-headed angel pinches your neck, I suggest you run.  Historic Oakwood Cemetery is approximately a half-hour drive from the Wake Forest area. Head south on Capital Boulevard into Raleigh. Turn left onto Crabtree Boulevard. Turn right onto North Raleigh Boulevard, then go about 1.5 miles before turning right onto Oakwood Avenue. The cemetery is on the right at 701 Oakwood Avenue. Jennifer Smart is assistant director of the Wake Forest Historical Museum. You can visit the museum online at www.wakeforestmuseum.org.

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BY DR. JASON GLADWELL

SWEETS AND TREATS NAVIGATING THE SEASON'S

hen your child or teen has braces, the fall season – with the State Fair, Halloween, Christmas, and Hanukkah, and the endless sweet treats that come with them – can seem a bit overwhelming. As their parents, do we let them consume the candy that has the potential to break brackets and bend wires, and simply hope for the best? Or do we encourage them to avoid the confections that abound this time of year altogether? By following these guidelines and opting for safe alternatives, he or she can enjoy the sweetness of the season while keeping his or her appliances secure.

GOOD STUFF, BAD STUFF – Avoid chewy, sticky, and hard candies. These are the #1 enemy of braces. Starbursts, candy corn, gum, jelly beans, Skittles, Tootsie Rolls, Gobstoppers, Airheads, and the like may be Halloween go-tos, but it’s easy for them to become stuck between brackets or break them. And at Christmas, be sure to avoid candy canes – while these may be a holiday tradition, biting into these hard candies can lead to cracked brackets, and sucking on them leaves sugary residues on the teeth, which can lead to cavities. – Ditch the caramel. Even if it’s in a soft candy bar, caramel is still sticky enough to cause serious damage. – Stock up on chocolate. Chocolate is the safest candy for braceswearers. Soft bars are unlikely to cause any orthodontic damage, so it’s okay to devour those Hershey’s Chocolate Bars and Kisses, Reese’s Cups, plain M&Ms, and 3 Muskeeters. 12

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– Pass on the popcorn. It may be tempting to pop a bag to enjoy during that scary Halloween movie, or to sample while stringing popcorn garland for the Christmas tree, but this treat needs to be off limits. Pieces can get stuck under wires and in brackets, and can lead to infection (it’s hard enough to get popcorn out of your teeth without braces – imagine how difficult it is with them). – Pick safe Fair fare. If you’re heading to the NC State Fair, your braces-wearer can safely indulge in Fair favorites like fried Oreos, barbecue, sundaes, and funnel cakes. They should avoid cotton candy, candy apples, and corn on the cob. – Make your own treats. If you’re throwing a holiday party, there are plenty of fun, sweet, crowd-pleasing, and braces-safe options to serve. For instance, dried fruit is a tasty alternative to candy. Sure, it’s no gummy bear, but it is a yummy option that is better for braces and won’t have you making an emergency visit to the orthodontist first thing Monday morning. Instead of caramel apples, cut thin apple slices to dip into creamy melted chocolate. And while it may involve a little extra baking effort on your part, serve cupcakes or miniature pies.

HAPPY FALL, BRUSH THEM ALL Since there seems to be a never-ending temptation of sweets and treats that aren’t so good for braces this time of year, one of the most important things to remember, and remind your kids about, is proper dental hygiene. The build-up of food debris – especially sweets, saliva, and bacteria – trapped around braces can cause cavities, swollen gums, and bad breath, so be sure to brush! Brushing around all parts of the braces and every surface area of the teeth is extremely important to avoid permanent scars. Interproximal brushes are great for helping with the removal of food around brackets and between teeth, and fluoride toothpaste or rinse is a good idea for added dental protection. And while not nearly as exciting as the latest and greatest video game, an electronic toothbrush that makes brushing easier and more efficient or a Waterpik that provides a deeper clean can be a great stocking stuffer. Trick-or-treating, Fair fun, Christmas parties, and more – this time of year is one of fun and festivities for kids, and indulging in the season’s abundance of candy and other sweets shouldn’t be discouraged. The takeaway for those with braces is that these treats should be enjoyed in moderation, with a discriminating eye, and always followed by good brushing techniques. By keeping these tips in mind, your child doesn’t have to spend this season of sweets treatfree, and instead, can enjoy all it has to offer.  Dr. Jason Gladwell is the owner of Gladwell Orthodontics, one of the Top Five Invisalign Providers in the nation, and North Carolina’s #1 Invisalign Provider. Gladwell Orthodontics has three locations in the Triangle – 2824 Rogers Rd., Suite 200 in Wake Forest; 13271 Strickland Rd., Suite 100 in Raleigh; and 510 Glenwood Ave., Suite 100 in Raleigh. For more information, visit www.gladwellorthodontics.com or call 919-453-6325.

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leep deprivation is also associated with weight gain, increased risk of diabetes, and dementia. So it’s no overstatement to say that sleep is essential to life, says Adnan Pervez, MD, a sleep medicine physician with REX Pulmonary Specialists and the REX Sleep Disorders Center.

“Sleep constitutes one-third of our lives,” Dr. Pervez says. “We need it to restore ourselves so that we can function during the day.” It’s about more than just recharging our batteries and maintaining our energy. Sleeping serves many physiological functions, too. Many of the body’s systems regenerate and recover during sleep. Hormonal changes important for growth and internal balance also occur during sleep. For these reasons, it’s important to create a sleep-friendly bedroom. Here are some suggestions for creating the perfect sleep environment.

SWEET DREAMS HOW TO CREATE A SLEEP-FRIENDLY BEDROOM Many of us joke about being sleep-deprived – especially this time of year with the hustle and bustle of the busy holiday season – but the condition puts a major damper on quality of life … not to mention, it can be downright dangerous. Poor sleep can lead to daytime sleepiness, accidents, and difficulty carrying out daily functions. Our cognitive abilities become impaired; our reaction times slow down; and we get grumpy, anxious, and depressed. 14

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1. MAKE SURE YOUR BEDROOM IS EXCLUSIVE TO SLEEP (AND INTIMACY). Your bedroom is a sacred space that should be used only for sleeping and intimacy. This helps you condition your brain to know that being in the bedroom means it’s time to get ready to fall asleep. Don’t keep attention-grabbing things in your bedroom – having a tangle of work papers, video games, exercise equipment, phones, and tablets in the bedroom can distract the mind and condition the body to regard it as a place of activity, not rest. 2. LIMIT NOISE AND DISTRACTIONS OUTSIDE THE ROOM. Rather than thrashing in bed, consider that you have more control over noise than you think. First, politely ask the humans with whom you live to change their behavior. Calmly ask them to turn down the TV, ask them to keep their voices down when talking, and share this article with them to help them understand why sleep is so important. Of course, you can’t control all the noises in your neighborhood, but you can still take action. For instance, some people like to drown out external noise with calming whitenoise machines or phone apps. Some people use a fan. There are also earplugs and headphones that are made to be worn while falling asleep to help eliminate sleep-preventing noises. 3. LIMIT THE LIGHT. You want to minimize the light to which you’re exposed during the hour or so before you hit the hay, because light is a natural suppressor of melatonin, the body’s hormone that promotes sleep. This mechanism works in your favor in the morning; when you’re exposed to bright light then, it sends a signal to the brain that the day has begun. But light exposure close to bedtime makes it harder to fall asleep because the light tells your body that it’s still daytime. Artificial light sends the same messages to your body as sunlight. A dimmable light switch that you can control from bed is a great way to gradually bring

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down the light in the bedroom and tell your body that it’s time to wind down during the hour before bedtime. 4. DON’T MINDLESSLY SCROLL THROUGH YOUR PHONE IN BED LIKE A SOCIAL MEDIA ZOMBIE. Consider putting your phone across the room on “Do Not Disturb” mode so that only important phone calls get through. Why? There has been a lot of research on the effects of taking smartphones and tablets to bed with you. Portable electronic devices disturb sleep in two major ways. First, they provide an activity – whether it’s reading the news, checking out your Instagram feed, or playing Candy Crush – therefore keeping you engaged with the device rather than relaxing and going to sleep. Second, in physiological terms, most LCD screens emit shortwave blue light directly into your eyes. Blue light tells your body to suppress the release of melatonin that would otherwise be helping you fall asleep. If you like the convenience of an electronic device for reading before you go to sleep, consider using a non-LCD e-reader that doesn’t emit blue light right into your eyeballs. 5. DECORATE FOR RELAXATION, AND KILL THE CLUTTER. In a sleep-friendly bedroom, you want design elements that are calming, such as light green or blue paint. Rainbow zigzags, faux graffiti, and other brain-stimulating decorations are better suited for other parts of the house. Having a clean bedroom can benefit your respiratory system. Make sure your sleeping environment is dust-free by dusting, sweeping, and vacuuming regularly. This will help you limit the severity of snoring, sleep apnea, and allergies. 6. COOL DOWN TEMPERATURES FOR SLEEPING. Your body temperature starts dropping during the initial stages of falling asleep. An external temperature drop that matches your internal temperature drop helps you fall asleep. That’s why having a bedroom environment between 66 and 68 degrees Fahrenheit is best for sleeping. If the bedroom is overly warm, it can create a stimulating effect and keep you awake. 7. REMOVE THE GLOWING ALARM CLOCK. You’re having trouble sleeping. You wonder how long you’ve been lying in bed. You calculate how much sleep you could get if only you’d fall asleep right then. You look over at the clock yet again. Don’t … instead, ditch the clock – it’s only stressing you out. If you can’t sleep, get up and go to another room. Read for a while until you’re ready to try to sleep again. Repeat. Leaving the room and reading will increase your chances of eventually getting sleep. Staring at and stressing over the red glow of a digital alarm clock will not help you get into the relaxed state of mind that tells your brain it’s time to sleep.  If you are suffering from sleeplessness, take REX Sleep Disorders Center’s free online SleepAware assessment, located at www.rexhealth.com/rh/care-treatment/sleep-services to find out if you are at risk of a sleep disorder.

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DRIVE

WISELY

BY THOMAS WALTERS

t’s a joyous time of year, as the holiday months are upon us. But with the jingle bells and crisp cool air also comes lots of people on the road traveling to visit friends and family or out and about shopping for that perfect holiday gift. With more people taking to the highways during the most wonderful time of the year, we will also see more distracted drivers and thus, more accidents. How often have you seen a motorist talking on the phone or texting, eating, drinking, applying makeup or shaving, talking with another passenger, adjusting mirrors or controls, and the like? What do you think were the ages of the motorists performing these activities? Have you ever paused to think about the potential dangers of these actions to you and other motorists on the road? The purpose of these rapid-fire questions is to paint a picture of distracted driving today and our passive attitude towards it. Until we understand the true meaning, implication, and urgency of distracted driving, unnecessary accidents and deaths will continue. According to the National Highway Traffic and Safety Administration (NHTSA), teens have the highest rate of crashes of any age group in the United States. Research done by Arity, a technology company founded by The Allstate Corporation, found nearly 65% of young drivers (age 18-28) engage in phone use like texting, watching videos, and reading while driving. However, young drivers aren’t the only ones getting distracted – it’s adults, too. A study done by Pew Research found that adults are just as likely as teens to have texted while driving, and are substantially more likely to have talked on the phone while driving. And not surprising, texting while driving increases a driver’s risk of an accident by 23 times, according to the Virginia Technical Transportation Institute. During the holiday season, car dealerships have crazy sales in hopes loved ones will splurge on a new car. Thanks to technology, distractions are amplified in these new cars. In addition to the ubiquitous cell phones, there are rear-mounted cameras, 16

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GPS navigation systems, and in-car Internet set-ups. These technologies require concentration to set up, handle, and adjust, and that takes attention away from where it belongs – on the road. Fortunately, along with all the cool toys, auto companies are starting to offer sophisticated safety technology as well. New cars come with collision avoidance, blind-spot and night vision detection, drowsiness alerts, and more. But these devices are expensive, and over-reliance on technology can take the responsibility off the person most responsible – the driver. When you’re behind the wheel, your goal should be 100% attention – total mindfulness. If you cannot devote your full attention to driving because of some other activity, it’s a distraction. Making new habits is not easy, but this one is worth the effort. If you’re a parent, model the right driving behaviors and have a conversation with your young driver about distractions and all the responsibilities that come with getting behind the wheel. Parents are the number one influence on teen drivers. While this is a busy time of year for the roadways, take time to understand the true meaning, implication, and urgency of distracted driving by observing the issue year-round, not just this one month. According to the U.S. Department of Transportation, nine people are killed each day and more than 1,000 are injured in crashes involving a distracted driver. So this holiday season, and all year long, keep your eyes on the road, drive responsibly and distraction-free, and most importantly, be safe.  Drivers need feedback on their driving habits – the good and the bad – and they can get it through Allstate’s Drivewise program. It’s free, easy to use, and you get real, personalized driving feedback on driving behaviors such as speed, hard braking, and time of day driving history following your trip. Whether you’re an experienced driver or you’ve just finished driver’s ed class, all motor vehicle operators can benefit from real time driving feedback. Thomas Walters is the owner of Walters Insurance Agency, located at 3207 Rogers Road, Suite 100 in Wake Forest. He may also be reached at 919-554-0267 or ThomasWalters@allstate.com.

December 2018

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Your children. Your family. Your health. Your well-being. Your transitions. Your place.

The Women’s Hospital at WakeMed North From pregnancy and childbirth to everything and anything female, the care is as comprehensive as it is compassionate. Embracing you and your entire family with outpatient and inpatient surgery, specialty and subspecialty care, 24/7 emergency care, imaging, rehab and more. After all, when it comes to you, your health and the health of your family, you’re the decision maker. And the decision is clearly WakeMed North.

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Add a mini bow and glue the bottom to a little wood slice. Making these tree treats is a great way to spend an afternoon with friends or family – a memory you will carry with you for years to come.

BY DOLORES RIGGINS

’TIS THE

SEASON TO BE CREATIVE

Can you believe that the Christmas season is just around the corner? Soon we will be immersed in the hustle and bustle of shopping, baking, and holiday parties. It’s easy to get lost in the holiday rush, so it’s important to set aside

For added DIY decorating inspiration, take a walk outside with your loved ones. Together you can hunt for natural items such as pinecones, magnolia leaves, holly berries, and Fraser fir limbs that you may have cut from your Christmas tree. Spray those magnolia leaves and pinecones with gold paint (a great craft project to tackle with the little ones in your life), and once dry, place upon your mantel among votive candles, the Fraser Fir tree clippings you collected, and perhaps a berry wreath or two that can picked up from your local craft store (or make one yourself if you’re feeling extra crafty). Fill a large vase, tied with a pretty red bow, with holly and the tree clippings … not only will you have a beautiful centerpiece you designed yourself, but your house will smell wonderful as well. Lanterns are a wonderful and easy way to add that little extra something to your home during the holidays. Simply fill them with brightly colored Christmas balls and battery-operated lights, and adorn with a pretty bow tied on top, along with a little holiday greenery. Group several different sizes together and you’ve crafted a stunning centerpiece for your holiday table or porch decoration. There is so much you can do with lanterns, so be creative! Let your crafting juices flow by stuffing clear glass tree ornaments with a variety of festive items, such as minature bells, artificial “snow,” or feathers. Or cut thin strips of scrapbook paper, roll them around a pencil, push into the ball, then finish with a pretty little ribbon tied on the loop at the top. Use paint pens or vinyl letters to personalize “snow”-filled ornaments for friends and family. This is a great children’s activity for a holiday party.

some time to enjoy the spirit of the season. ecking the halls can be one of the most fun and festive ways to do just that. We all have those favorite ornaments that bring back sweet memories of holidays past. While those are to be treasured, why not make some new memories this year with simple and creative DIY decorations? There are many great ideas floating around that incorporate inexpensive items that you probably have laying around your house. Who doesn’t love a nice bottle of wine, especially during the hectic holiday season? But what to do with all those corks? Create little cork Christmas trees, of course! You’ll need 15 corks, all about the same size. Paint one end of each in a variety of holiday colors or cut small circles of scrapbook paper to glue on the ends. Next, glue the corks together, starting with five for the bottom, four for the next layer, three for the next, then two, and then one. Glue each row, one on top of the other, starting with the bottom row of five. 18

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The holidays are about being together with family and friends – and what better way to spend a cold December afternoon than by stringing popcorn and cranberries to wrap around your tree? This is great for children of all ages. Set out bowls of popcorn (but don’t eat it all) and cranberries, gather large embroidery needles and fishing line, and start stringing. While you’ll have a beautiful garland to adorn your tree, the memories you make are even better. DIY holiday decorating can be fun and rewarding. There are many wonderful crafting opportunities for family bonding and memory making. (Where would we be without Google and Pinterest?) So take advantage of this occasion to tap into your inner crafter and let her out. Here’s to beautiful decorations, time with family and friends, and wonderful holiday memories to last a lifetime.  Dolores Riggins is the co-owner of Southern Suds & Gifts, featuring over 35 craftsmen and artists, located at 213 S. White St. in Downtown Wake Forest (www.facebook.com/SouthernSudsAndGifts).

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HIDDEN

GEMS

RALEIGH ROAD OUTDOOR THEATRE

all is the perfect time to enjoy crisp cool evenings with family and friends, and the upcoming holiday season is the perfect time to make memories with loved ones. If you’re looking for something new and fun to do this season that will let you do just that, then be sure to check out this issue’s “Hidden Gem” – Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre. The Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre – an open-air drive-in movie theatre located about 30 minutes north of Wake Forest in Henderson – will treat you to an old-fashioned evening of movie magic under the stars. It provides the ideal opportunity to enjoy a beautiful autumn evening, snuggle up with that special someone or cuddle with the kiddos, and make memories to cherish for years to come.

incorporating online food ordering, all while maintaining the vibe and aura of a retro 1940s drive-in atmosphere and nostalgia feel. Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre plays double features every night it is open (so you can enjoy two movies for the price of one!) and features first-run flicks and classic cinema (every Wednesday). So if you’re looking for a unique date night or wallet- and familyfriendly fun (including the pups – yes, they allow dogs!), settle in under a star-filled moonlit sky, snuggle up in the back of your truck or a comfy folding chair with a cozy blanket, tune your FM radio to 90.3 for the movie’s sound, and fill your belly with fabulous fare while enjoying the magic of the big screen.

A LITTLE HISTORY Originally called the Moon Glo Drive-In and owned by the Stevenson family, this local treasure that is now 69 years young, is only one of six drive-in theatres – and the oldest – left in operation in North Carolina. Showing its first movie Ali Baba and the Forty Thieves on July 15, 1949, Moon Glo’s tradition of bringing families together to enjoy movies in a nostalgic way while presenting new release movies (now available in a 4k digital format) every weekend year-round began, and continues today. The Stevensons ran the drive-in until the late 1970s, when it was then purchased by the Lyles family, who changed the name to the current one of Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre (after the road on which the theatre is located – also known as Business Route 1). Ownership then transitioned to Jim and Megan Kopp, and ultimately to the current owners, Mark and Jennifer Frank, who purchased the theatre in December of 2011. The Franks, who are dedicated to providing quality entertainment for a great value, have implemented a few changes since they took ownership, including the upgrade to the previously-mentioned 4k digital projection and the expansion of its dinner menu. In addition, they envision embracing new technology as it becomes available and 20

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WHAT TO EXPECT If you’ve never experienced the drive-in concept, and aren’t quite sure what to expect, no worries … we’ve got you covered. The theatre opens at 7:00 PM Friday through Sunday (except for Saturdays, when they open at 6:00 PM). The first movie begins after sunset when it’s dark enough to see the screen clearly. Movies run all year round, rain or shine. Entry to the drive-in includes two back-to-back movies and costs $8 per person (kids 3-11 are only $5), regardless if you choose to stay for only one feature. Be sure to come hungry – the concession stand is full of classic movie theatre snacks (think popcorn, candies, nachos, pretzels, mozzarella sticks, etc.), as well as heartier dinner dishes (such as burgers and hot dogs, corn dogs, grilled chicken, and steak and cheese) and specialty treats (like funnel cake fries and Oreo churros) – none of which is more than $5. (Please note that the theatre does not allow outside food or beverages, including alcoholic beverages, which are strictly prohibited. They will make food exceptions for those with allergies or special dietary needs – just notify theatre staff before entering.) If you have a truck or a hatchback vehicle, definitely bring it for a movie-watching experience like no other. There is always an intermission between movies, so you can walk around and stretch your legs a bit if you get a little cramped in the car. Or bring blankets, pillows, lawn chairs, and anything else you need to cozy up for movie-watching under the stars. (And for the ultimate cozy autumn evening, why not wear your PJs? Don’t worry … you won’t be the only one enjoying the flick while in flannel!)

HOLIDAY EVENTS Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy some good ol’ fashioned holiday entertainment – whether it be for Halloween, Christmas, or New Year’s, there will be plenty of fun and festivities to further enhance your already amazing drive-in experience.

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During the Halloween season, enjoy Halloween-themed movies, as well as their “Halloween Spook-Fest,” where you and your little ghosts and goblins can participate in a “trunk-or-treat,” costume contest, and car contest. “Christmas At The Drive-In” will feature a meet and greet with Santa Claus, holidaythemed games, and more. And don’t miss the opportunity to ring in the New Year drive-in theatre style. In addition to the evening’s scheduled movies, sparkling cider, party favors, and familyfriendly holiday-themed games will be offered to help welcome in 2019, and Dick Clark’s Rockin’ New Year’s Eve will be showcased on the big screen.

MAKE SOME MEMORIES This “labor of love,” as Mark and Jennifer refer to Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre, lets people experience the way movies have been seen for generations – and in today’s digital world where movies can been seen on a small smartphone screen, we can all use a night to escape and enjoy a little bit of “how it used to be.” “It’s all about the memories,” one set of grandparents said to Mark during a busy night. Another older couple brought their entire family recently and proceeded to show their kids and grandkids where they parked for Rocky back when they visited this very drive-in back in 1977. So this holiday season – and all year-round – be sure to take time to visit this hidden gem and make your own memories with your loved ones … one visit, and you’ll understand why Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre has stood the test of time.  Raleigh Road Outdoor Theatre is located at 3336 Raleigh Road (US Business Rt. 1) in Henderson. For movies; show times; to order tickets in advance; menu items and online ordering; and details on the upcoming holiday events; as well as more information about what to bring, what not to bring, theatre rules, and more; visit raleighroaddrivein.com.

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FOR CHILDREN Construction Site On Christmas Night by Sherri Duskey Rinker Ages 5-6 From the author of the New York Times #1 bestsellers Goodnight, Goodnight, Construction Site and Mighty, Mighty, Construction Site comes what is sure to become a Christmas classic. The trucks are gearing up for Christmas by building a special gift. But there’s a surprise waiting for each of them, too. Presents await for Excavator, Bulldozer, Crane, Dump Truck, and Cement Mixer as each finishes their part of this big, important job and rolls off to a sweet and sleepy goodnight. Playful rhyming text and vibrant illustrations make this the perfect gift for the little construction fan in your life.

BY SUZANNE LUCEY

GOOD

READS

Fiona The Hippo by Richard Cowdrey Ages 4-8 This endearing book tells the true tale of Cincinnati Zoo Internet phenomenon Fiona the hippo, who captured the hearts of young and old around the world. Born prematurely at 29 pounds, Fiona’s spunk, determination, and personality shine through each page of this illustrated book by New York Times bestselling artist Richard Cowdrey. Fiona The Hippo is the perfect inspiring story to share and enjoy with your little ones this holiday season. Dogman: Brawl Of The Wild by Dav Pilkey Ages 6-9 (Currently available for preorder, available December 24) This series by the creator of Captain Underpants will surely have your reader laughing out loud at Dogman’s hilarious antics. In this latest book, the hound is sent to the pound for a crime he didn’t commit – and while his pals try to prove his innocence, he struggles to figure out his place among dogs and people. Since he’s a part of both worlds, will he every fully fit in with one?

The holiday season is a time to shower those we love with

FOR YOUNG ADULTS

thoughtful and meaningful gifts … but sometimes shop-

Evermore by Sara Holland (Currently available for preorder, available December 31) The duology Evermore is sure to be a hit among young adults. The high-stakes, star-crossed follow-up to the New York Times bestselling Everless, Evermore offers an exciting new voice in literature for this generation. People pay for everything with their time (days, months, years) which is extracted from their blood and transformed into coins, and the royalty lives for centuries, while the common folk are taxed and punished with their life blood. This is the page-turner that Sara Holland’s fans have been waiting for.

ping for the perfect present for that special someone can be super stressful. Instead of worrying about whether your spouse will appreciate his or her new sweater, or if the kids will enjoy that new game or gadget for more than a day, why not share the gift of the written word this holiday season?

hat’s right … I’m talking about wrapping up that bestseller in bright shiny holiday paper or stuffing those stockings with entertaining stories full of joy and imagination. So if you’ve got a book-lover on your holiday shopping list, I’m here to help make finding that perfect gift for him or her just a little bit easier this year. (Please note, though, that several of these titles may not be available until just prior to or right after Christmas Day.) 22

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A Short History Of The Girl Next Door by Jared Reck This fiercely funny – and at the same time, heart-wrenching – story of love, longing, and what happens when life as you know it changes in an instant will have you both laughing and crying … sometimes on the same page. As award-winning author Jeff Zentner states, “In the blink of an eye, A Short History of the Girl Next

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Door goes from hilarious to haunting to harrowing to heartbreaking to hopeful and back. You’ll never be sure exactly what kind of tears you’re crying. The riotously funny and achingly authentic voice of this gorgeous coming-of-age story will break your heart, but have no fear: it will piece it back together with the glue of love, hope, and humor, and it will be stronger than before.” A Map Of Days (The Fourth Novel of Miss Peregrine’s Peculiar Children) by Ransom Riggs Finally, a new book in this bestselling series. The series returns with a thrilling new story set in America, and the creepy, vintage photos are back – but this time, with a striking addition … full color images. New clues, new wonders, and new dangers await Miss Peregrine’s peculiar children in this brilliant new chapter.

FOR ADULTS A Spark Of Light by Jodi Picoult The #1 New York Times bestselling author of Small Great Things returns with a powerful novel about ordinary lives that intersect during a heart-stopping crisis. This book covers the timely subject of a woman’s right to choose – while you may think you know your opinion on this complicated issue, Picoult truly makes you understand all points of view with this gripping and nuanced novel. A Spark of Light will inspire debate and conversation … and hopefully understanding. The Clockmaker’s Daughter by Kate Morton A beautifully-written, spellbinding tale set in England and told over 150 years by multiple voices, The Clockmaker’s Daughter is the latest novel from the bestselling author of The Lake House. With gripping plot twists of murder and mystery and love and loss, this literary gem will surely take your breath away. Every Breath by Nicholas Sparks A chance encounter at our state’s own Sunset Beach kicks off this romance novel by one of the world’s most beloved storytellers – one that is sure to beckon you back to the beach this fall. Full of hope and regret, Every Breath transcends decades and continents and will have Sparks’ fan asking themselves how long a dream can last. Pie: A Savor The South Cookbook by Sara Foster Who doesn’t love pie? Every single recipe from Sara Foster’s cookbooks that I have made have exceeded my expectations, and her latest work has me ready to get cooking once again. Just in time for the holidays, Sara – who takes the phrase “easy as pie” seriously – provides 57 mouth-watering recipes, clear instructions, and how-to tips for becoming a pie-baking hero.  Suzanne Lucey and her husband Dave own Page 158 Books, located at 415 S. Brooks St. in Wake Forest. She may be reached at 919-435-1843 or visit www.page158books.com.

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December 2018

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BY STACEY MORITZ

PETITE

SWEETS FOR HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING

It’s hard to believe that the holidays are almost here. They sure do have a way of sneaking up on us. No doubt you are already planning your holiday entertaining schedule, including what events to host and what meals to serve, and are probably trying to find the perfect treat to round out the perfect holiday meal. When it comes to a dazzling dessert

this holiday season, try adopting a new motto – less is more! hile everyone loves the showstopping arrival of that amazing cheesecake or triple chocolate masterpiece, the reality is that the we are all feeling overindulgent this time of year. The good news is that there is no need to sacrifice flavor or presentation in order to create a memorable end to your celebration. Behold the miniature dessert – so fun to create and present. Your favorite desserts can be modified and showcased on a smaller scale and still have a massive impact without the guilty conscience. Some of my favorites can be found in a shot glass – one of the greatest entertaining vessels around. Think parfaits, brownie sundaes, and fruit compotes – your mini sweet treat options are limitless. Simply layer your ingredients into the glass and refrigerate until ready to serve. Offer a selection as part of a dessert buffet or a single dessert simply presented on a white plate at the table. Combinations that are sure to satisfy the sweet tooth of any holiday guest include: sautéed apples (see recipe) with vanilla cream 24

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and caramel drizzle, sprinkled with toasted pecans; crumbled brownies and vanilla ice cream topped with whipped cream and a little crème de menthe (or your favorite liqueur); crumbled pumpkin cake or muffins layered with cinnamon whipped cream and sautéed apples; red velvet cake layered with whipped cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce; and pound cake layered with raspberries and melted white chocolate. Miniature pies are also great holiday treats that will allow your guests to satisfy their sweet teeth without the hefty calories that come with a big slice of pie. All you need is a mini muffin tin and your favorite pie filling. Delicious ready-to-use pie crusts and puff pastry dough found in your local grocery store can make these delectable sweets super easy to prepare. All you need is a round cookie cutter that’s a little bigger than the mini muffin cup. Simply cut your rounds and mold them into the muffin tin, fill, and bake – perfect for holiday must-haves like pecan, cherry, apple, and pumpkin, or the ever-popular chocolate filling. Mini layer cakes are also easier to make than they sound. Bake your favorite cake or brownie in a 9 x 13 pan (if you opt for a box mix to save time, go for it – no one is judging you, I promise … especially during this busier-than-normal time of year). Use your trusty cookie cutter to cut the cake into your desired shape (round will be the easiest to work with, but if you are feeling adventurous and envision something like a star or Christmas tree shape, I say go for it). Slice the cake in half, or even thirds, so you have thinner layers. Then pipe your favorite icing in-between the layers, top with a bit more icing, and sprinkle with your favorite topping – crumbled toffee, mini chocolate chips, and shredded

December 2018

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coconut are just a few ideas that are ideal for mini cakes. You can also drizzle your favorite sauce like caramel, chocolate, or raspberry over the top and onto your plate for a beautifully dramatic presentation and added flavor. ...drawing out your vision

With a little imagination and not too much effort, you can create winning confections everyone will love this holiday season – and won’t tip the scales. After all, good things come in small packages.

Religious Facilities Educational Campuses Commercial / Retail Athletic Facilities Industrial Manufacturing

CINNAMON SAUTÉED APPLES – 3 Granny Smith apples, peeled and diced – ½ stick butter – ¼ cup brown sugar – 1 teaspoon cinnamon Melt butter in medium pan. Add apples and sauté 3 minutes, until beginning to soften. Add brown sugar and cinnamon and stir until sugar melts. Sauté about 8 -10 minutes over low heat until apples are fairly soft, stirring often. Serve warm or cold as a topping for miniature parfaits, pies, cakes, and ice cream.  Stacey Moritz is the owner of The Lemon Tree Cafe, located at 113 S. White Street in Downtown Wake Forest (919-521-5806), offering freshly prepared salads, pastas, soups, and take-away fare. The Lemon Tree Cafe is open Monday - Saturday, 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM, offering lunch and catering.

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designdevelopment.com

December 2018

919-848-4474

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RALEIGH NC

SNEAK

PEAK

OUTDOOR LIVING TRENDS FOR 2019 BY JOE RABOINE

ow that the 2018 summer season has shaded into autumn, the amount of evenings spent outside on the patio has begun to dwindle down. If you’re looking to get the most out of your yard, fall and winter are some of the best times to find great deals and to prepare your outdoor spaces with 2019’s hottest backyard trends. Increasingly, homeowners are taking the time to create beautiful outdoor living spaces that add charm, functionality, and comfort to their homes. Though outdoor projects have been around for a long time, people are choosing these projects more than ever before to beautify and better their home environments, and projects in recent years have been shifting towards larger scale endeavors. As such, today’s architects, designers, and landscape contractors are building creative and imaginative amenities that not only boost a property’s curb appeal and increase its value, but also enhance quality of life for the homeowner. The goal with any project is to take under-utilized outdoor spaces and transform them into vital parts of the home experience. By adding physical elements that make people feel welcome and comfortable, such as plush seating and new landscaping, outdoor spaces are increasingly built to align and extend the experiences between indoors and out. These connected spaces are an extension of our awareness that what we do in our environments has an impact. There’s an increasing overall awareness that people want to be and need to be connected to their neighbors, and therefore, many design trends in outdoor living today seek to foster the idea of “connection.” There are also trends supporting our desire to have less negative environmental impact, both around the world and in our own backyards. In addition to the built-in features that support a healthy, natural environment, color palettes for pavers and walls are moving away 26

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from bright, manufactured colors, and are migrating instead to neutral, contemporary tones in grays and tans and whites and ivories. Finally, many of the trends in 2019 will reflect the bigger, more elaborate project goals. In short, our outdoor living projects, the spaces we create, and the furnishings we choose are becoming larger and more complex. Outdoor living is no longer a trend, but instead has become an expectation. Following are the top outdoor living trends for 2019.

CLEAN CONTEMPORARY SPACES Exactly as the interior kitchen and bathroom design trends have shifted towards more sleek and modular aesthetics, so too have outdoor designs. Simple, soft, and neutral colors like gray and taupe blend with clean design lines to create approachable, modern outdoor spaces that would be as comfortable inside as they are outside. With modular design, homeowners today are increasingly bringing the indoors out by choosing features within their outdoor spaces that seamlessly integrate the experiences between the two environments. Nowhere is this more evident than in the comfortable, large outdoor furniture that will remain popular in 2019. From hanging swings and beds, to chaise lounges and couches with deep seating, recent trends have put an emphasis on comfort while retaining the design aesthetic of a clean and contemporary style.

THE FRONT PORCH Another trend in 2019 will be the return of the front porch as an important environment to encourage conversations and relationships among neighbors and friends. Designers are increasingly including front porches in new construction plans, and homeowners are making those spaces an extension of outdoor living in the front of the home. Even front porch fireplaces are beginning to emerge as a trend, with a lot of opportunity for creativity from homeowners.

December 2018

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Beyond front porch fireplaces, trends in backyard fire pits are heading towards more linear and rectangular pits, leaving behind the traditional round or square-shaped pits. In addition to more rectangular pits going into backyards, it will remain a trend in 2019 to opt for gas-burning fire installations wherever possible.

OUTDOOR KITCHENS Outdoor kitchens and outdoor cooking will be among the hottest trends of 2019. Throughout the food preparation world, the trends are focused on the notion of fresh and well-sourced ingredients in local gardens. What better way to compliment an outdoor garden filled with fresh herbs than to harvest and cook those ingredients in a space that is at once inviting and functional, as is the case with outdoor kitchens?

WALL PRODUCTS Borrowing from the vertical design trends popular in city environments, outdoor wall products will remain popular in 2019 for creating multi-functional areas with less space. From full-blown urban gardens, to raised planting beds, built-in seat walls, and more, using vertical space can create the “room” and set the tone for an outdoor environment of any size.

have a fairly significant amount of maintenance associated with their upkeep. For a slightly higher cost of entry, homeowners are finding full-coverage spaces offer a tremendous uptick in functionality and provide the shade and protection they desire. By adding this feature, outdoor televisions and sound equipment – as well as outdoor kitchens and living spaces – are better protected, allowing the space to reach its full potential. From raised planters and vertical gardens to fully-functional outdoor kitchens and bars, it will be easier than ever to build the outdoor kitchen space of your dreams, and bring fresh, homegrown foods straight from the garden to the grill.

NON-TRADITIONAL SPACES People are looking at their outdoor spaces as an opportunity to do more than simply grill out or entertain with family and friends. With that, the trends in outdoor living reflect the shifting values towards

health and balance, and away from traditional applications. Many of the most exciting trends in outdoor living in 2019 could be lumped into a category we could call “non-traditional” spaces. As people are trying more exciting and innovative uses for their outdoor environments, there is no shortage of fun and exciting uses for the yard. From “She Sheds” and artist studios to meditation and yoga spaces, outdoor showers and tubs, tree houses, outdoor movie screens, and even free-standing barrel saunas, the outdoor environment is limited only by our imaginations. These 2019 outdoor living trends, in effect, will prove to create a year full of innovative outdoor projects that fit the needs of every homeowner.  Joe Raboine is a residential business manager with Belgard. For more information, visit www.belgard.com.

Vertical gardening will remain popular in 2019 because it maximizes available space and offers homeowners of every size the ability to grow their own herbs and veggies at home. So too will be depth-providing vertical structures such as arbors, arches, pergolas, and gazebos to add a sense of height to an otherwise small space.

FULL COVERAGE For those who have the yardage, this upcoming year promises to shift towards fully-covered outdoor spaces, including free-standing outdoor pavilions and builton home extensions. High-quality wood pergolas can become a significant financial investment, and they

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Snoring is often thought of as the major symptom of sleep apnea, and while it often accompanies OSA, there are a variety of other symptoms that should not be ignored, such as: daytime sleepiness or feeling tired, dry mouth or sore throat upon waking, morning headaches, temporarily not breathing, waking with shortness of breath, and insomnia. If you smoke, have nasal congestion, use substances to help you relax, or have family history, you are at greater risk for OSA. While as mentioned this can occur in all ages, if you are older and male, your risks are increased.

BY DR. EDMOND SUH

SLEEP

By accurately diagnosing OSA early, an effective treatment plan can improve your quality of life and help avoid life-threatening complications. Diagnosis of OSA involves a sleep study, and many patients have relied upon studies conducted in a laboratory setting. But some do not sleep as well in the lab as they do in their own bed and environment. Although special equipment is required, studies can be conducted from the comfort of your home through the use of advanced technology, and then analyzed by a sleep specialist. You simply have an easy-to-use, lightweight, portable monitor that collects information such as airflow, breathing effort, and blood oxygen levels. Once the monitor is returned, the analysis begins. During a

RELIEF Do you ever wake up from a full nightâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s sleep and still feel tired? Maybe you find yourself gasping for breath during the night or battle insomnia. The fact is, you may actually have sleep apnea which, according to the National Sleep Foundation, impacts 18 million American adults. Sleep apnea can occur in all age groups and potentially lead to serious health disorders. Some of these include cardiac issues, stroke, hormonal issues, high blood pressure, head-

aches, fatigue, and difficulty focusing. he most common type of sleep apnea is obstructive sleep apnea (OSA). This is caused by the muscles in the throat relaxing when you sleep. Between 80% and 90% of those with OSA go undiagnosed. For proper diagnosis of sleep apnea, a sleep study should be conducted.

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follow-up visit, a review of the results takes place along with a discussion of treatments tailored to your needs. OSA is often treated by wearing a sleep machine when you sleep. The Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) machine forces air through the nose and mouth to keep the throat from collapsing during sleep. While many advances have been made in the design of face masks and the noise made by the CPAP machine, about 60% of those diagnosed with sleep apnea don’t wear their machine. This is because of complaints that the machine and mask are uncomfortable, bulky, and loud. Due to the use of CPAP to treat sleep apnea, many people avoid being diagnosed. Not wearing your CPAP or avoiding diagnoses increases the risk for your overall health. However, depending on the findings of your sleep study, improvement could be as simple as orthodontic treatment, lifestyle changes, or an oral appliance therapy

instead of a CPAP. The oral appliance is a dental appliance that is customized to keep your throat open by repositioning your jaw or tongue to prevent airway obstruction. This therapy is considered the gold standard for the treatment of mild to moderate OSA. These custom-made appliances have been used for many years to relieve sleep apnea – with phenomenal results. The vast majority of patients no longer have any need for CPAP and feel rested when they wake up. 

919-556-6200

To learn more about sleep apnea and ways to help you sleep better, contact Dr. Edmond Suh of Supremia Dentistry, located at 1711 S. Main Street in Wake Forest. Dr. Suh is an international lecturer on contemporary dental techniques. At Supremia Dentistry, expect something different as they welcome you to their patient family. Call 919-556-6200 to learn more or schedule an appointment. You can also visit www.supremiadentitsry.com.

Schedule your appointment or request a complimentary consultation today! 1711 South Main Street Wake Forest www.supremiadentistry.com

919-462-0500 | triangle.nc@maidpro.com | www.maidpro.com/triangle/ CIRCA Magazine

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ut it seems that estate planning is always last on a person’s financial planning “To-Do” list – after all, thinking about our demise isn’t something we really want to do. So here comes the big question – have you done or reviewed your estate plan? Don’t let 2018 come to a close without getting your estate planning ducks in a row. Following are a few “got to do but I’m not looking forward to thinking about” topics you should seriously discuss with your grown children or aging parents and appropriate professional administrators. If you take the time now to get your estate organized with the necessary documents, you will avoid future problems, confusion, and stress, giving you and your loved ones peace of mind. Getting your affairs in order is advisable for everyone. You may be healthy, young, and wealthy, or not, but any planning for end-of-life will be beneficial to all when that time comes.

PLANNING ESSENTIALS

Inc .

ESTATE

io ar Chef M

’s,

BY JILL BRIGHT

Complete a living will – the legal document allowing medical personnel to communicate your treatment with someone you chose and trust if you are incapable of doing so. Consider a health care power of attorney for medical decisions (medical treatment, nourishment, surgery, rehabilitation facilities, etc.) and a financial power of attorney for financial decisions (opening your mail, paying your bills, transferring your assets, contacting your bank, and so forth).

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retirement, and budgets, plus make contributions and donations that could have a significant impact on our taxes. We all spend a great deal of time and money planning for life-changing milestones like educations, weddings, children, celebrations, and retirement. 30

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Execute a last will and testament, the most important estate planning document you can have. You should pick an executor (or the courts will name an administrator) to handle the legal responsibilities of your estate. Their duties include everything from filing your will, distributing your property, paying your bills and estate taxes, filing other documents, and more. If you have young or disabled children, you should name a legal guardian to care for them, their property, and any trusts you have set up for them. Establishing a living trust makes sure your wishes are followed after your death, which also helps distribute your assets to the beneficiaries faster. An appointment with a funeral director to pre-plan your funeral will also help to ease the trauma following your passing and spare your family the stress of organizing and planning it when under emotional duress and a short time frame. Pre-planning is a gift to your loved ones, guiding them by your written, personal, legal, logistical, and financial choices. Could you, this minute, tell your loved ones the location of your important papers, military discharge certificates, social security number, and insurance papers? Do they know where you were born, your parents’ full names, and your job title for a death certificate? Review your insurance, beneficiaries, and will at least annually, as families and friends will come and go. Especially take time to update such items as life insurance policies, retirement accounts, pen-

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sions, vehicle titles, and even Facebook ownership, so correct names of who will take over your accounts after your death are updated. Once you have gathered and completed these documents, make copies for your next of kin, attorney, and executor, letting them know where the originals are safely stored. If this information is only in your safety deposit box, it will be of no good if not accessible on a weekend, holiday, or before a funeral if quickly needed. These are just a few of the important things you need to do for your estate planning. If not done before the end of this year, make a New Year’s resolution to talk with your loved ones, share your wishes, and see those who can make them official and legal, giving this gift of love that will benefit them for their lifetime.  Jill Bright is with Bright Funeral Home, located at 405 S. Main Street in Wake Forest. Bright Funeral Home serves the Wake Forest, Rolesville, Youngsville, Franklinton, Falls, Bay Leaf, Loiusburg, Raleigh, and surrounding areas. For more information about Bright Funeral Home, call 919-556-5811 or visit www.brightfunerals.com. You may stop by anytime to pick up their informative pre-planning form and booklet, or make an appointment with their pre-need staff. They will assist you through the many options available for services, merchandise, required forms, Medicaid, Veterans benefits, record your personal information, and if you prefer, guide you through pre-payment now so your loved ones will not have that additional burden.

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EASY BREEZY

HOLIDAYS

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR A CALM AND COLLECTED COOKING SEASON BY HOLLY HOPKINS

ere it is – time to plan for all the fun and festivities we love over the next few months. And, as usual, your delicious and beautiful ideas for food, decorating, party-going, and party-throwing far outweigh the time you have to dedicate to those endeavors. Yeah, I’ve been there (more than once). So, what can you do right now to make sure you have time to actually enjoy the season as it comes? I have a few thoughts on how to make your holiday food and festivity scene spring to life with a few tricks that can get you lots of treats. Set yourself up for success this season so you have time to stop and smell the cinnamon.

MAKE IT AHEAD This is always my biggest recommendation to anyone who asks. I know, it’s still work … but a little time spent planning, prepping, and baking ahead of time will save you time, stress, and frustration in the long run. There are so many great recipes out there for goodies that will last in your freezer and keep you from having to spend your weekend in the kitchen when you could be relaxing with your family in front of the tree. Take some time early in the season to get a few special goodies all nestled in the freezer. Trust me, it’s worth the time now. There is no shame in turning on some holiday melodies in October for a day or two to get yourself into the spirit of the season – so go ahead and crank up the music and get some baking done early. You will thank yourself in December when you can grab an extra cup of coffee and sit by the fireplace instead of shuffling to the kitchen and hauling out the flour. If you want to try something new, go online and see what is out there. Or grab that family recipe that Mom has always made and you’ve been wanting to try for yourself. The two recipes I am sharing with you are a couple of my go-tos that can help set you up for holiday happiness. First is a tried-and-true weekend breakfast dish that is great for brunch events or just for feeding your hungry family with very little early morning effort (always a win). I am also sharing one of my favorite freezer friendly cookies – Lime Melt-Aways. These are simple cookies that don’t take up much space in the freezer, pack a fresh lime punch which is refreshing in the middle of winter, and are a nice addition to any holiday dessert 32

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spread. Give them a try – I think you will be happy you did. My other advice is to share the work or find someone else to do the bits that you don’t want to do or don’t have time to do.

FIND IT ONLINE Yup, I said it. If you need it, I am sure you can order it. From meats to sweets and gifts to garlands, there are plenty of online vendors that offer all sorts of goodies you can order and pickup, or even have delivered, saving you tons of time and added holiday stress. This can be a great way to shop locally and support our microeconomy too. Lots of online retailers offer homemade décor and specialty treats, and several online craft “stores” sell seasonal goodies and gifts year-round. Many local purveyors of delicious

Wake Forest Civic Ballet Presents

The Nutcracker A one-act tale told in story and dance! Dessny Dance Insstute with new works inspired by the season!

Sat Dec 15 - 7 pm Sun Dec 16 - 3 pm Heritage High School Wake Forest

For ckets, visit wakeforestcivicballet.org/ or call 919-453-1453

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dishes and treats likely have an online presence so you can easily shop for what you need right from the comfort of your own home, while still supporting local merchants. For simplicity and time savings, it’s a great way to go.

HAVE A MAKE-IT AND BAKE-IT PARTY Remember the old cookie exchanges, where everyone would bring several batches of one kind of cookie and swap them for other cookies from fellow bakers? Create your own twist by hosting a cookie baking party with friends or family. Pick two or three types of treats, ask your friends to bring a portion of the ingredients, and make the goodies yourselves. Spend a day hanging out with people you love, laugh, share stories, and get some baking done. You can create a keepsake for your collective – have everyone share their favorite holiday cookie or bar recipe with you, then include all those recipes into a little booklet that each person can take away with her. You may not get as many varieties of cookies, but you will get a nice collection and enjoy some time together as a bonus. This can be a fun holiday tradition to start with your neighbors and friends.

BRING BACK THE COOKIE EXCHANGE Not interested in a group baking day? Then bring back the previously-mentioned cookie exchange of old. Gather a group of baking friends to share their favorite holiday treats. Don’t get too big or you’ll end up making a ton of sweets – six to eight is generally a

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good number. Each invitee has to commit to making a dozen-or-so of their favorite cookie or dessert bar for each person who is part of the group (if possible, be sure to find out what people are making so there aren’t duplicates). Everyone brings the sweets they made, and the exchange is in swing. Each guest will leave with her take of all the other treats – a great way to bring a lot of variety to your holiday dessert fare. Bonus – you often get to try your friends’ “family favorites.” This is a great way to share tradition with your friends.

FIND A PROFESSIONAL Now, this does get tricky (believe me). If you find that you just want to say “dash it all” and call in the big guns, there are plenty of catering services around. But, call now. Trust me, the limited spots fill up fast – really fast. Many caterers book up early and there is often a high minimum, as their services are at a premium during the holiday season. But some will likely have pickup services if you are willing to do some re-heating at home. This is a great option if you would like to make some of your own goodies, but want to supplement with fare you just won’t have time to – or don’t want to – prepare yourself. Some caterers may offer special seasonal meal packages that you can order for a stress-free gathering, and many traditional grocery stores will have package deals you can order ahead of time. Bottom line – if this is the option you decide on, order now. If you wait until the continued on next page

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bitter end, you will likely end up doing it yourself anyway. No matter how you spend your holiday time, a little planning ahead is never a bad idea. With options to save you time and stress when December approaches, you can enjoy more relaxing time, more sleep-in time, and more friends and family time. So with time speeding up as the year comes to a close, go ahead and start your pre-holiday planning and prep, get those lights a-twinkling, and relish the joy of the season.

MAPLE PECAN STRATA This breakfast strata works best with baguettes or other crusty bread, and must be prepared at least one day in advance. Bread works best when it is a little dry or stale, but you can simply leave it out of its packaging while you assemble all of your ingredients. And yes, use the crusts – it helps give a little extra texture to the strata. This dish can be made up to two months in advance and stored in the freezer. Move it from the freezer to the refrigerator the day before serving so it can thaw completely before baking. – 6 cups diced stale bread cubes (baguette works best), approximately 1" square – 1½ chopped pecans (divided) – 8 eggs – 2¼ cups milk – 1/3 cup maple syrup – 1 teaspoon vanilla – 2 teaspoons cinnamon – 1 teaspoon nutmeg – 1/3 cup butter, softened – 2/3 cup brown sugar Preheat oven to 350 degrees and spray a 9 x 13-inch baking dish with cooking spray, making sure it’s evenly covered. Put the bread cubes in the dish. Sprinkle ¾ cup of the chopped pecans over the top of the bread cubes, trying to evenly distribute them. Crack the eggs into a medium bowl and whisk. Add the milk, maple syrup, vanilla, cinnamon, and nutmeg to the eggs and whisk to combine. Pour the milk and egg mixture evenly over the bread in the pan (don’t worry if some of the cubes look a little dry; they will soak up the liquid). In a small bowl, combine the butter, brown sugar, and remaining ¾ cup of chopped pecans. Crumble together and sprinkle evenly over the top. Cover and freeze or refrigerate. This dish needs at least 8 hours of “soak” time to get the bread completely saturated and ready for baking. If you freeze it, simply remove the strata from the freezer and place in your refrigerator the day before you want to bake it. Bake for 35-45 minutes or until the center is firm to the touch and doesn’t feel “liquidy.” Serve with fresh fruit and a little extra maple syrup. 34

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LIME MELT-AWAYS (Makes approximately 70 cookies) These are a light and buttery slice-’n-bake cookie with a nice refreshing and “snowy” look that is perfect for your holiday sweets platter. – 1 cup butter, softened – 1 cup granulated sugar – ¼ teaspoon baking soda – 2 egg yolks – 1 tablespoon milk – Zest and juice of 1 lime – ½ teaspoon vanilla – 3 cups all-purpose flour – 2 cups sifted powdered sugar Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat the softened butter together with the sugar and baking soda. Beat until fluffy, scraping the sides of the bowl often. Add the yolks, milk, zest, lime juice, and vanilla, and mix until combined. Beat in as much of the flour as you can with the mixer (if it becomes too dry, use a wooden spoon to finish). Divide dough into fourths. Shape each section into a log about 9 inches long. You can accomplish this most easily by rolling the log in a piece of parchment paper or plastic wrap. Roll it back and forth under your hands on a hard surface, applying gentle pressure to stretch it out to the desired length. The longer you make it, the smaller your cookie rounds will be when they are sliced and baked. For best results, chill for at least 4 hours before baking. If you wish to store them for later use, wrap them very well in plastic wrap or freezer bags and store in the freezer for up to three months (please note that these are delicately flavored cookies that will take on a “freezer flavor” if not wrapped well before freezer storage). If cooking from frozen, move to the refrigerator at least an hour before you want to bake. Pre-heat oven to 350 degrees. Remove the log from the plastic or parchment paper, setting on a cutting board to slice. Using a thin, sharp knife, cut into approximately ½-inch sections. Place cookies approximately 1 inch apart on a cookie sheet and bake for 7-9 minutes or until the edges are firm. While cookies are baking, place powdered sugar in a bag. Let cookies rest for 1-3 minutes after baking; while still warm, place a few in the bag and shake gently to coat, then place on a cooling rack to cool completely. For best appearances, shake the cookies in the powdered sugar again after they have cooled. For a splash of color, add some decorative colored sugars to the powdered sugar for the final coating.  Holly Hopkins has spent many years working in and with food, starting off at her Grandma’s elbow, making wedding cakes and cookies galore. Since then, she has been a manager and business owner and is thrilled to be combining her passions for high quality food and superior customer service at Chef Mario’s. For more information, visit www.chefmario.com.

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InterstateRestAreas.com for rest stops located along your route. Adjust your seat so your lower back is supported. Make sure you sit comfortably with good posture. This means sitting up straight with your feet on the ground, not with your legs under or beside you. And from time to time, move around in your seat. This distributes your weight to other muscles groups, alleviating tightness and pressure on your spine, lower back, and glutes. Travel in comfort. Try a car seat accessory that provides added support and improves posture. A variety of ergonomic seat products are available like neck-supporting pillows, lower back cushions, and cushy seat covers.

ROAD READY STRETCHES

ROAD TRIP

READY

Don’t just sit there – stretch! Prevent tightness and strain with these stretches that increase joint and muscle flexibility and improve blood circulation. IN THE CAR STRETCHES – Wrists and Forearms: Extend your arms above your head and move your wrists in circular motions. Change directions after 10 reps. Grasp your fingers and gently bend them down. Hold for 10 seconds, then bend your wrist by pulling your fingers down. Hold for 10 seconds and repeat movements for 10 reps.

Are you traveling this holiday season? For many families,

holiday travel means long hours in the car. A little preparation and organization can make all the difference for your next road trip. WakeMed Children’s and WakeMed Orthopaedics share a few tips to keep you and your family healthy, active, and happy when on the road.

MAKING HEALTHY CHOICES ON THE ROAD No matter where or how you travel, snacks are a must. It can be hard to get proper nutrition on the road. Pack healthy snacks and choose more wholesome options at fast food joints to keep you fueled. Recommended road trip snacks tips include: extra water; granola bars; fresh fruit, such as apples, bananas, grapes, and pears; raisins and dried fruit; trail mix (be aware of nut allergies if others are in the car); whole grain bread; whole grain crackers or pretzels; string cheese or individually wrapped cheese; and travel size peanut butter or hummus dips (again, be allergy aware).

MOVE YOUR BODY During road trips, take a moment to move those muscles. Sitting for long periods of time can tighten and fatigue muscles, joints, and tendons. Stop every two or three hours and move your body. Trust us, your body will thank you later. Check out 36

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– Arms, Shoulders, and Upper Back: With arms extended above your head, interlock your fingers and gently move your arms back. Hold for 10 seconds. Lower your arms and repeat for 5 reps. – Neck: Move your shoulders down and back. Slowly bend your neck from side and front to back. Hold for 15 seconds. – Back: With your seat belt on, hinge forward so your chest meets your quadriceps. Loosely hang your arms between your knees and reach for the floor. Relax, allowing your body weight to pull you down and to increase the stretch. Hold for 20 seconds. – Lower Trunk: Sit up straight with shoulders down and back. Twist at the lower back to one side. Using your hands, push at your legs into a deeper twist. Hold for 15 seconds and repeat the other side. OUT OF THE CAR STRETCHES With each stretch, keep your heels firmly planted and maintain a straight back and neck posture. Hold for 30 seconds and repeat by switching legs. – Calf Muscle: With your hands on the car, place one foot in front of the other. Slowly lean forward onto your front foot and stretch the calf muscle of your rear leg. Try to keep your rear leg straight and both heels firmly planted to provide more stretch. – Quadriceps: Stand on one leg and pull the other directly behind you with your hand. Try to touch your heel to your gluteus. – Standing Groin: Stand with your legs wide apart. Shift your weight onto one of your legs and bend at the knee. The knee of your bent leg should be in line with your toes. – IT Band: From a standing position, cross one leg in front of the other. Lean your upper body toward the side of the front leg and push your hips in the opposite direction. 

It’s more than a college. It’s a calling. The College at Southeastern combines the best of a liberal arts college education with substantial biblical and theological training. We offer two ways for high school students to receive college credit during their junior and senior years. These options will allow incoming college freshmen to start their college experience with credit hours already applied towards their degree.

Come visit us in historic downtown Wake Forest or learn more at collegeatsoutheastern.com. /collegeSE

WakeMed Health & Hospitals is dedicated to helping you and your family enjoy a healthy life by providing the best medical care possible. WakeMed North Hospital – conveniently located on the corner of Falls of Neuse and Durant Roads in north Raleigh – offers residents and families of northern Wake County and surrounding communities access to a variety of health services and the highest quality and safest care in a warm, patient-friendly environment. The adjacent Physicians Office Pavilion is home to several physician offices and specialties, including primary care, ENT, pediatrics and pediatric specialists, orthopaedics, physical therapy, OB-GYN care, and more. For more information about WakeMed North and its services for the entire family, visit www.wakemed.org/north.

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her life. Think outside the gift box! Is there an experience you can create? A service you might provide? Some personal talent you can share? Maybe there’s a charity or cause to which you can donate in his or her name. SCENARIO #2: DINNER DISASTER. You have a glossy-foodmagazine vision of perfection for your holiday feast. Now you’re 30 minutes out from mealtime and things are spinning out of control in the kitchen. Ask. For. Help. Most people would rather contribute and feel useful than stand around sipping cocktails while you struggle. Graciously accepting help creates a wonderful opportunity to connect authentically with your guests and will be far more memorable than your picture-perfect meal. SCENARIO #3: DIETERS’ PARADOX. You’re walking into a lavish party. You’ve read all the articles and tips about how to “stick to your diet” and “beat the holiday weight gain.” But, oh, so much temptation. In floods the guilt, so even if you do blow it (as you very possibly will), you don’t enjoy it at all. Accept that, no matter how disciplined you are throughout the year, there’s a very good chance you’ll indulge at least once or twice during the holiday season, and that’s ok … give yourself permission to truly enjoy these treats a little. BY TODD NELSON

HAPPY

SCENARIO #4: CRANKY RELATIVE SYNDROME. You’re staring

HOLIDAYS

STRATEGIES FOR NAVIGATING YOUR WAY TO A HEALTHY, STRESS-FREE HOLIDAY

he holidays are all about peace and joy … until they’re not. If you find your anxiety levels rising as the holidays and their inevitable hustle and bustle approach, here are a few ideas for coping with four common holiday-stress triggers.

SCENARIO #1: GIFT-SHOPPERS’ NIGHTMARE. You’re on your fifth loop of a way-overheated department store, searching for that perfect something to give a person you either don’t know very well or who doesn’t need another material possession in his or 38

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down four to six hours in which you’ll be captive audience to Uncle Frank’s inebriated political rants. Or maybe you’re just the one person in your family with a radically differing lifestyle or viewpoint, and, for one reason or another, you don’t have an option of simply refusing to attend. First, take a moment to appreciate that you have people with whom to celebrate the holidays (many don’t). Then, arrive well prepared with a list of noncontroversial subjects and talking points to which you can redirect conversation. Or bring and encourage plenty of distracting activities such as card, board, and parlor games; a nostalgic singalong; a look through old family photo albums and yearbooks; or maybe just a long walk in nature after the meal. Before and after the craziness of the holiday season and the focus on others in your life, be sure to set aside at least a few hours to indulge in real self-care. This might involve exercise, physical pampering, hiring a professional team to clean your house or outsourcing some of the cooking and baking, or maybe just spending a perfectly solitary afternoon with a cup of tea and a great book. These simple strategies will help you survive the frustrating holiday triggers we all face, and you can enjoy a calm, relaxing, and happy holiday.  Todd Nelson is the owner of MaidPro of Raleigh and Wake Forest. For cleaning tips, visit www.maidpro.com/raleigh-north or call 919-871-9996.

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BY SHANNON PARKER

TREE TRADITION

THE CHRISTMAS

Christmas brings about many wonderful traditions – Christmas Eve service, Salvation Army bells, helping others, stuffing stockings, baking cookies, holiday decorating, and writing to Santa all come to mind. But one of my favorite traditions is going to pick out the perfect Christmas tree. For some, that entails a short trip to the mountains, staying in a quaint bed and breakfast, and visiting a real Christmas tree farm. With pole in hand as a measuring stick and bow saw in

the other, there you can venture out and find that “one” tree. or others, it wouldn’t be Christmas without trekking to your favorite Christmas tree lot to find that perfect tree. What makes it “perfect?” For little Sally, it has to be the tallest tree on the lot that requires a small dump truck to transport. For Dad, it might mean that the tree has a straight trunk and good handle so that the stand goes on easily. (Where is that stand, by the way?) For Mom, it might mean a tree with large openings where Grandma’s antique ornaments can hang. For Johnny ... wait, where’s Johnny? We all have those special qualities we look for in a tree that make it special. 40

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CHRISTMAS TREE MAGIC For me, what makes this tradition extra special is the people you encounter while Christmas tree shopping. You come back every year to get a hug or a handshake from the tree guy whose warm and friendly face you look forward to seeing every holiday season. It is the feeling of being connected. Visiting the tree lot allows us to show emotion and be childlike – I have seen 70-year-old grandmothers swinging on a knotted rope swing at one of our local lots. That’s magic. How about petting the horse while your tree is loaded atop your car? That’s magic. How about a 30-feet-tall Frosty The Snowman actually waving back at you when you wave? That’s magic. How about playing hide-and-go-seek amongst the trees? That’s magic. How about the fragrance of fresh Fraser Firs that permeates the air and triggers memories of beloved Christmases past? That’s magic. How about waiting to pick out the tree as a family once your son or daughter comes home from his or her first year away at college? That’s magic. The tree lot – a magical and powerful place of emotions.

STRAIGHT FROM THE FARM … GROWN FOR YOUR HOME There is a lot that happens behind the scenes to create this magical experience – and a lot of time. Have you ever wondered where Christmas trees come from? For those of you who think that they come from the tooth fairy’s cousin, the “tree fairy,” you are partially right. There is a farmer out there who has committed a lifetime of growing to ensure you have that perfect Christmas tree in your home every year. In fact, did you know that Christmas trees have five homes over their lifetime? Home #1: Seedbed – The Christmas tree growing process all starts from a small seed that is planted in a seedbed, which is the tree’s first home. These seedbeds are very protected nurseries and great care is taken to give the young baby trees the start they

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need. Here, they are planted about one inch apart and live here for about three years until they reach a height of about six inches and the tree stalks are about the diameter of an eraser. The baby trees are referred to at this stage as “seedlings.” After about three years, they need a little more elbow room, so the seedlings are gently pulled from the soil and then planted in a transplant bed. Home #2: Transplant Bed – The mature seedlings are planted in their next home, the transplant bed. They are planted about five inches apart and grow for another two years here, until they reach a height of 18 inches and the trunk diameter is pinky finger thickness. At this state, they are referred to as “transplants.” For you mathematicians out there, it takes five years just to get a transplant strong enough to reach the next phase. Home #3: Outplants – Once the transplants reach maturity, they are gently pulled from the ground and dipped in a gel to help manage their hydration during the transition time, which is normally just a few hours from digging the transplants to getting them in the field. The trees are planted in the field about five feet apart (this all depends on how tall they will be at harvest). Most trees on tree lots are 13-18 years old from seed. What were you doing 18 years ago in the year 2000? I was helping to plant your Christmas tree. In this stage, the trees go through the most change. Pruning takes place once a year, when each tree gets its annual haircut. Without this important step, we would have to call them Christmas bushes rather than Christmas trees. There is also a science component where soil samples are taken and tested to uncover which areas of the farm might need more fertilizer. Farms will range from having a few thousand trees planted to hundreds of thousands.

NC Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services offers tips for consumers to care for their fresh Christmas tree. “With proper care, a real tree can last up to two months, providing your home with a wonderful aroma and truly festive feel,” says NC Agriculture Commissioner Steve Troxler. – If you can’t set your tree up immediately, place it in a bucket of water in a cool, shady location. – Cut a half inch from the base of the tree before placing in a stand. – Use a stand that will hold at least a gallon of water. – Check the water levels often. A tree may take up to a gallon of water in the first 24 hours, and a quart per day after that. – Place your tree away from heat sources, such as heating vents, fireplaces, and sunny windows. – Check lights and cords for broken bulbs and frayed wiring. – Do not overload electrical circuits. – Turn off lights before leaving home or going to bed. – Remove the tree from your home after Christmas and recycle it.  Shannon Parker and his family own Parker’s Big Meadow Mountain just outside of Boone, with four Christmas tree lots in the Wake Forest and North Raleigh area. Visit www.parkersbigmeadowmtn.com for lot locations or check them out on Facebook. Special thanks to Charles and Grace Parker (Mom and Dad) for planting the first seed. Photo courtesy of Deric Cook of Deric Cook Photography (www.dericcookphotography.com).

Home #4: Christmas Tree Lots – Here is where we truly are able to bring the farm to your backyard. We choose to “recreate” the farm experience with split rail fences, pole barn wreath house, and tin roof entrances, with Christmas music and lanterns to greet you. Here is where you will experience the magic I mentioned previously – where perhaps you can show your excitement, your joy, swing on ropeswings, and hug a giant inflatable snowman. Home #5: Your Home – At this stage, the tree finally arrives at its final home … your home, where it becomes the focal point of your Christmas tradition. After many homes and years of labor and love, the perfect tree – adorned with heirloom ornaments, twinkling lights, sparkly tinsel, and beautifully wrapped gifts for the special people in your life – has finally arrived at its ultimate destination, to help you once again enjoy the magic of Christmas.

CHRISTMAS TREE CARE TIPS While real Christmas trees are a great addition to your holiday décor, they do require more attention than the Santa figurines and smiling snowmen that are proudly displayed on your mantel. The

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So if it can be this hard for us adults to control our spending, knowing that we don’t need to buy all the things – imagine how hard it is for our kids to grasp the concept of self-control and prioritizing needs over wants. Not only do they get bombarded with propaganda geared towards them from retailers during this season, they also have the peer pressure of what their friends may be getting and that horrible feeling of missing out on the next greatest thing. Often, children can lose sight of those special gifts they would really like and start to focus more on the number of gifts, keeping up with what their friends are probably getting, and filling that implied need for instant gratification society has established as a way of life.

BY JESSICA McMICAN

SOMETIMES

LESS

So how can we help our children learn the importance of value over quantity? How can we teach them that it isn’t about how much, or even what, we get as much as it is about being grateful for what we already have and appreciate what we do receive? First, we can start with our conversations at home and the expectations we set. How many of us get the toy catalog in the mail and ask our children to go through and circle what they want? If your child is like most, they circle 80% of it. This year, try setting a limit. Let them make choices, but ask them to pick their top five, with the understanding that a circle doesn’t necessarily guarantee they will get said items. Do your children make a list for Santa? Again, ask them to limit the number of items, or perhaps prioritize their list in order of what they would like most, so that Santa can focus on one or two special gifts. It is

IS MORE

t’s hard to believe that summer has already come to a close and we have turned the corner into the last quarter of 2018. Anyone else feel like they went straight from announcing their New Year’s resolutions to all things pumpkin spice this year?

If you haven’t already started thinking about your holiday shopping, it won’t be long before every retailer will be reminding you the season is coming quickly and that it’s time you do. Businesses will spend millions on advertising in hopes that you will purchase their products and services as gifts for your loved ones (or yourself) by convincing you that they have something they, or you, need or want. Unfortunately, this marketing can be so eﬀective that it often leads to people buying more than they need, things they don’t really need, and even things they can’t aﬀord. Black Friday? Cyber Monday? One week until Christmas sale? Who can say no to a good deal, right? After all, it may never go on sale again. Ever. Except, it will. Most likely the day after Christmas ... 42

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important that we help children understand that these are special lists of things they would like to have – not a grocery list of necessities with the expectation they will or should get everything on it. Expose your children to those who have less. Schedule a time to volunteer at a food bank, a children’s hospital, or a shelter. Let them see the diﬀerence between a true necessity for life and those things we simply would like to have. At the end of the year, you can always find several organizations that are collecting items to give families in need for the holidays. Whether it is food, clothing, or other essentials, let your children be a part of the donation process from beginning to end. Learn about the family you are going to assist, if possible. Ask your children to give ideas on what they may need or want as a special gift. Go shopping together and let them help with the gift wrapping. Bring them to the donation drop oﬀ with you. What if you don’t focus on things this year, but rather activities? I don’t know about you, but I can’t remember every present I got for the holidays when I was child. I don’t remember if I got five presents or 25. I only remember a few special gifts I wanted most and those items I got that I didn’t even know I wanted. Sometimes, my favorite gifts weren’t things at all, but rather special moments my family enjoyed together. Show your children the joy they can get out of experiences rather than things. Lastly, ask yourself what your motives are. Are you buying things just so your kids will have what their friends may have or what your friends may spend? Do you somehow believe that what you buy is a reflection of your success or how much you love them? Make sure you aren’t projecting your fear of disappointment on them.

WAKE FOREST HISTORICAL MUSEUM FREE AND OPEN TO THE PUBLIC O PEN T UES -F RI: 9:00 AM- NOON AND 1:30-4:30 PM O PEN S UNDAY: 2:00-5:00 PM

414 N. Main Street Wake Forest, NC 919-556-2911

As parents, it is our responsibility to help our children learn to appreciate what we have and work hard for what we don’t. It is up to us to help them realize that happiness doesn’t come from things, but rather our state of mind. This year, don’t focus on how many things you can give them, but instead, how you can make them feel. This year, let’s show them what really matters. 

wakeforestmuseum.org

Jessica McMican is the owner of A Moment’s Grace and the founder of The Bloom Community, and devotes her time to empowering women inside and out through photography, coaching, and community events. For more information, visit www.amomentsgrace.com.

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DRIVEABLE

DESTINATION CHRISTMAS IN WAKE FOREST:

THE HISTORIC HOME TOUR BY JENNIFER SMART

lack coats, white vests, and gaudy holiday ties brightened Wake Forest’s streets back in the days when college boys displayed their Christmas finery to impress the townspeople’s daughters, and all the homes along Faculty Avenue were decorated with wreaths and candles and holly and mistletoe. On Christmas Day, the Wake Forest Baptist Church Sunday School put on a pageant. The choir sang a cantata. Gifts and candy went to all the neighborhood children and everyone gathered in one of the town’s gracious houses for a “sociable,” where the hostess served confectioneries and the guests played games like “drop the handkerchief,” “Mary had a little lamb,” and the “Scotch ramble.” The ramble, a type of Virginia reel, didn’t last long on the Baptist campus. It was too much like a dance and had to be stopped!

Tradition holds strong in Wake Forest. As the oldest town in Wake County outside of Raleigh, it has four historic districts: the local Wake Forest Historic District, the Wake Forest National Register Historic District, the Downtown Wake Forest National Register Historic District, and the Glen Royall Mill Village National Register Historic District. Several of this year’s tour homes are on North Main Street – formerly known as Faculty Avenue, the location which figured so prominently in Wake Forest’s early Christmas celebrations. Visitors strolling the tree-lined avenue for this event are also invited to explore the historic Calvin Jones House. Adjacent to the Wake Forest Historical Museum and famous as the Birthplace of Wake Forest College, the house will be decorated in period style and will feature a reenactor in period dress appear-

These are some of the images to keep in mind as we approach this year’s Wake Forest Christmas Historic Home Tour on Saturday, December 1 from 1:00 – 7:00 PM. This is the only regularly scheduled event in which a collection of the town’s privately-owned historic residences are open to the public, and the opportunity only comes on even-numbered years. The tour started about 30 years ago with a handful of houses and then expanded to include historically significant commercial buildings, businesses, and churches. It also has become increasingly popular, attracting nearly 2,000 visitors and raising funds for local programs. Presented by the Wake Forest Historic Preservation Commission and the Wake Forest Woman’s Club, the tour qualifies as a fully immersive experience with historic architecture, holiday music, and the unique charm of a small-town tradition.

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ing as Mrs. Samuel Wait, wife of Wake Forest College’s founding president. The museum will be open as well. Back in those olden days, a Wake Forest Christmas concluded with a night of jolly pranks. The college boys loved to spend the wee hours of the night blowing tin horns, setting all the alarm clocks in the College Building to go off at once, and generally making a large amount of noise. Although the Historic Home Tour is certain to be quieter, it’s every bit as joyful a celebration of the season, past and present.  The Wake Forest Christmas Historic Home Tour will be held Saturday, December 1, rain or shine. This is a self-guided tour featuring several Wake Forest homes and other properties decorated for the holidays and open for viewing. This year’s event will also offer wonderful holiday music and more. Tickets are $20 each (including tax). For a list of sale locations, please visit www.wakeforestnc.gov/ christmashometour.aspx. Plan ahead! A limited number of tickets will be sold for this year’s tour and none will be sold the day of the tour. Complete information, including ticket details, directions, entertainment, and more will be provided through the “Christmas Historic Home Tour” function on the Town of Wake Forest app. Download the app at www.wakeforestnc.gov/app.aspx. Jennifer Smart is assistant director at the Wake Forest Historical Museum. Visit the website at www.wakeforestmuseum.org. Title photo courtesy of Town of Wake Forest.

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BY CASSANDRIA E. WARR, OD, FAAO

STEP UP YOUR

GAME WITH VISION THERAPY

ith fall sports in full swing, do you find yourself wanting to improve your game? You’re probably already doing a lot of what’s required to get stronger, faster, and more accurate. But what if there is something else that can help you further advance your athletic ability? Sports vision therapy is vision training to improve the visual skills and abilities of an athlete. Athletes of any ability level can benefit from cross-training visual skills to improve performance. An athlete vision assessment will identify areas of relative strength and relative weakness in order to design an individualized training program to help develop peak visual skills. Training visual skills enables athletes of all ability levels to more quickly and accurately recognize and process visual information. This is the first step in preparing the body to make the proper response during competition. Every athlete would benefit from having the following visual skills evaluated. 46

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– Accommodation (Eye Focusing Skills): The strength, flexibility, and accuracy of the eye focusing system should be evaluated with your sport in mind. Accommodative skills allow you to keep objects (such as the ball, puck, or opposing team) in focus, as well as quickly change focus during the game. – Depth Perception: Often called “3D vision,” depth perception is dependent on the ability to use both eyes together at the highest level. Deficiencies in depth perception can result in poor passes, shots, or spatial judgment during competition. – Ocular Motility (Eye Movements): Eye movements must be fast, accurate, and coordinated any time you need to quickly change focus from one object to another. It is much faster to move just your eyes than your whole head. Deficiencies in eye movements can slow down your entire game. – Vergence (Eye Teaming): Deficits in eye teaming will result in double vision, eyestrain, fatigue, headaches, or dizziness. Deficiencies of the vergence system will affect sports performance either globally or during specific aspects of your game (such as putting in golf). – Visual Acuity (Clarity): How clearly you see is the foundation of a strong binocular vision system. Not seeing equally out of each eye has the potential to affect eye teaming. It can also affect your ability to follow a ball or player that is at a distance. – Peripheral Vision: Peripheral vision allows an athlete to see if a player or ball is moving without looking directly at them. If you do not have good peripheral vision, you may miss a player trying to steal a base. Physically, the difference between a high performing athlete in a particular sport versus an average performing athlete in the same sport is typically marginal. Mentally, the difference can be tremendous. The following perceptual skills are critical for giving an athlete that mental advantage and should be evaluated during your binocular vision assessment. – Processing Speed: This is a measure of how quickly your brain processes visual information. Deficiencies in processing speed will result in delayed reaction time. – Spatial Awareness/Planning: This perceptual skill allows athletes to know where they are on the field, where their teammates are, and where the competition is. The athlete can then make the best decision of where to play the puck, which pass to make, or which shot to take. – Visual Integration: The integration of visual information with the other senses is critical. Making sense of your world relies on all of the senses working harmoniously. The integration of visual and motor skills is important for eye-hand coordination during athletic competition. – Visual Perception: This group of skills includes visual discrimination (determining likeness), spatial relations (determining differences), form constancy (determining sameness even when changed in size or orientation), visual memory, visual sequential

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memory, figure-ground (extracting valuable information from the background), and visual closure (ability to put the pieces together to form the whole). These perceptual skills are essential for optimal athletic performance. – Working Memory: This perceptual skill is critical for athletic success. Whether it is remembering a pitcher’s tendencies, which routes to run as a wide receiver, or remembering how a hole in golf plays, working memory is a part of most athletic events. Vision therapy can also be used to train the visual system after a concussion occurs. A concussion is a mild form of traumatic brain injury that can occur in many ways, including playing sports. According to “The Concussion Project,” 10%-20% of concussions result in symptoms that can last weeks, months, or more. When these symptoms persist, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome occurs. Typical symptoms of post-concussion syndrome are confusion, headache, nausea, unsteadiness, light sensitivity, blurred vision, double vision, loss of place with reading, and dizziness. Recent research suggests that over 50% of patients with concussion or post-concussion syndrome have visual problems that can cause headaches, double vision, eye strain, or blurred vision. Through vision therapy, the visual system can be retrained to help eliminate the visual symptoms that are most commonly associated with post-concussion syndrome. This is generally termed neuro-optometric rehabilitation.

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Neuro-optometric rehabilitation represents a specific area of optometry, which addresses deficits in eye-teaming, eye focusing, visual tracking, visual processing problems, and related visual problems. These are common with patients who have had a concussion or another form of acquired brain injury. Treatment involves spectacle lens prescriptions, prisms, filters, and special tints which can provide symptomatic relief. Vision therapy is also a powerful form of neuro-optometric rehabilitation. Vision therapy entails a variety of non-surgical therapeutic procedures designed to modify different aspects of visual function. It typically involves a series of treatments during which carefully planned activities are carried out by the patient under professional supervision in order to relieve the visual problem. The specific procedures and instrumentation utilized are determined by the nature and severity of the diagnosed condition. Vision therapy is not instituted to simply strengthen eye muscles, but rather is generally done to treat functional deficiencies in order for the patient to achieve optimal efficiency and comfort. Sports vision therapy makes good athletes even better. Individualized training programs provide targeted vision performance training, with specificity in sport and position, to enhance and develop elevated levels of sports performance.  Cassandria E. Warr, OD, FAAO is with McPherson Family Eye Care, located at 3150 Rogers Rd., Ste. 110 in Wake Forest. For more information, visit www.mcphersonfamilyeyecare.com.

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CHANGING WITH THE

SEASONS BY PATTI FRALIX

October brings cooler days and crisper nights. The summer, with its heat, water activities, and lazy days make way for falling leaves, footballs games, and holidays. While I love summer, I am usually ready for fall to arrive. Now winter, other than Christmas, is another story. But the last few years I have even come to look forward to winter, especially our annual ski trip to Colorado with family. I do enjoy the changing of the seasons. As the seasons change, perhaps we can change also. And regarding “change,” I am referring to more than changing our wardrobe from shorts to sweaters –

I am referring to changing from the inside out. s one season quickly rolls into another, I am more conscious than ever of the fragility of life. Some of you have lost people dear to you in the past year. Regardless of how much you loved them and how much you longed to keep them, their time has passed. If you are reading this, that is not true for you. Until we draw our last breath, we can make changes in ourselves that will make us more fulfilled. Perhaps we can think of those loved ones as a stimulus for some changes we want and need to make. I could mention losing weight, managing money better, and becoming more organized as changes I would like to make. And I am still working on those areas. But enough about those, for as important as they may be, they are external changes. There are some internal changes I want to make at this point in my life. And I am using the changing of the seasons as a roadmap for those changes. In October, when it is time to put on more clothes to stay warm, I want to put on the “clothes” of compassion. I want to be more compassionate not just with others, but with myself as well. I plan to spend some time zeroing in on my needs, as well as the needs of others. I do not think of this as selfish, but as necessary to have more joy in my life, so I can give more to others. As October makes way for November and I prepare for Thanksgiving, I plan to be more thankful, reaching into myself as I reach out 48

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to others. I will write a daily gratitude list, bringing to my awareness the blessings of each day. I will find ways to share my blessings with more people, reaching out in ways that are not necessarily easy, but meaningful. I will send more handwritten notes and cards, touching others in a tangible way. I will not let the excuse of being too busy and not having time to add one more “chore” to an already packed schedule. I will consider these additional activities as not chores, but rather as blessings to me, as well as to those others I touch. As November steps aside for December, I will divert some time from the holiday preparations to prepare myself even more for the person I want to be. I will give myself the gift of solitude, even in the midst of the holiday noise. If I bring more “stuff ” into an alreadyfilled house, I will take out at least as much as I bring in. I will let go of some holiday decorations that I no longer want, even some of the ornaments made by our children. I can offer those to them, but if they do not want them, I will be ok with that. I will not consider that as rejection, for it will not be rejection of me, but of “stuff.” From my work on me in October and November, I will be ready for this. Now, as you read the changes I want to make in me in this last quarter of the year, what did those examples stimulate in you? For the intent in discussing my planned changes is not really to tell you of my plans, but to give you some options that you may consider for yourself. Your desired changes may be quite different from mine. They may even be external, not internal. You may not even need to make any changes, and if that is the case, then be proud of that, and take that time for even more holiday planning and execution. For those of you, however, who find something in my examples that encourages you to take some time this season to focus on yourself, make time for that. Let something else go and make the time to become more of who you want to be. Remember, while it is too late for those who are no longer with us to change, there is still time for us. As long as there is breath. May this last season of the year be joyful for you!  Patti Fralix speaks, consults, and coaches, inspiring positive changeSM in work, life, and family. She is founder and president of The Fralix Group, Inc., a leadership excellence firm based in Raleigh, and author of A Year in the Life of a Recovering Spendaholic. She can be reached at pfralix@fralixgroup.com.

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OUR HERITAGE REVISITED THE RUTH SNYDER GARDEN BY AMY PIERCE “Our Heritage” is reprinting and updating earlier articles as a way of introducing a ballooning newcomer population to Wake Forest history and culture.

egular walkers along North Main Street in Wake Forest the past few years have no doubt enjoyed the birth and growth into adolescence of a perennial garden on the south side of the Wake Forest Historical Museum. Tucked beneath four majestic trees, the garden was the dream of Sunny Snyder Newton (Wake Forest College Class of ’52) to honor her mother Mrs. Everett (Ruth) Snyder. The garden bears witness to the kind and nurturing nature of a lady long known to the College Birthplace. “Mother loved and worked for this Birthplace from the beginning,” states Sunny. “To have this garden nestled close to the home she loves is wonderful and to have it used and enjoyed by others means a great deal. It speaks to Mother’s life.” Preparations began over 20 years ago in January of 1998 to have the garden ready for a public dedication on July 19, Ruth’s 92nd birthday. As Chair of the Birthplace Board’s Landscape Committee, Margaret Wineinger recruited area gardeners to work with her and by March the ground was rototilled, a layout was created, and the City of Raleigh delivered mulch. It was time to dig in. Projects of this magnitude demand the efforts of many volunteers. According to an article in The Wake Weekly, Bob and Liz Ford cut down a dead cedar tree and tilled the garden. David and Betty Frankow also helped fell the tree and remove its debris; Max Wineinger watered and shoveled mulch; Bert Maggert watered, dug, carried dead limbs, and removed rocks; Ashland and Kent Brown edged the entire periphery; and brothers, Tim, Matt, and David Waddle planted, mulched, edged, and cleared. Stanley Jones, former groundskeeper at the Seminary, donated bricks from the old Wake Forest College pathways in order that a sidewalk might be built between the house and the garden. Jim Barbee donated labor to lay the walk. At one corner was planted a granite marker inviting those wandering in to “consider the lilies of the field…” And then it was done. 50 50

July 19th dawned hot and muggy. An ominous sky eventually let loose its own gift for the garden as scores of celebrants sat dry and shaded beneath a bright yellow and white tent. Surrounded by friends and family, a beaming Ruth listened as daughter Sunny read a poem she had written for the occasion. Grandchildren and greatgrandchildren spoke of happy memories in other gardens created by “Grammie.” And Dr. James Blackmore reminisced about his long-time neighbor. All in all, it was a most memorable and important 92nd birthday for Ruth Snyder – and for the Birthplace. During the remaining months of 1998, additional work was done to enhance the Ruth Snyder Garden. (Neither gardeners nor gardens get a long rest in southern climes!) Pansy plants were added in October. November brought four Wake Forest University students to plant 100 daffodils. And 1999 saw a gift of 400 varieties of bulbs from Merrie Hedrick, all of which were planted in January. An irrigation system was installed so the dedicated wouldn’t have to monitor sprinklers anymore. Since 1999, life’s unceasing turning has brought its changes, including Ruth’s passing. The garden has grown ever more beautiful through the cycling years. And although fall is currently upon us, inevitably it will be springtime once again … springtime, when the garden is aglow with color and daffodils happily beam at North Main Street walkers. Roses will once again greet them as well. When next you pass this way, walk in through the cedars, pick a rose (that’s what they’re for), and rest on a bench among the lilies of the field.  Thanks to Jennifer Smart and Beverly Whisnant. Amy Pierce lives in Wake Forest’s Mill Village, where she is a writer, minister, and spiritual counselor. She can be reached at 919-554-2711 or visit www.authenticself.us.

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