December 2013 VOL. 8 - ISSUE 5
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December 2013 1
A Note from the editor
2 December 2013
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Cynthia M. Ellis It doesn’t seem that long ago that we welcomed in the beginning of the year and now look, we’re at the end. This past year I went through the biggest changes in my life — personal and professional. Whenever I face tough times, as do many, I look to faith to reflect and think about the changes. The Serenity Prayer often comes to mind: “God grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; courage to change the things I can; and wisdom to know the difference.” I think this prayer says it all. Life is full of change. Like an ocean, it has ebbs and tides. Some people are afraid of change, but you must remember even standing at the water’s edge you will need to adapt. As the tide comes in, you either have to move or you will get swept away. How you chose to deal with it is up to you. You can let it happen to you or you can move out of the way. It’s the “wisdom” to know the difference. Why am I talking about change? I’m sure many of you who read flaire regularly know it’s undergone changes this past year as well. It’s likely to go through more. Anyway I want to hear from you, the readers. I want to hear your thoughts on the changes you’ve seen or the ideas you have and the changes you would like to see. To tell me more send an email at flaireforwomen@hotmail.com or follow my blog, CynsationalGirl at Wordpress. com, and drop me a note. Change is the one thing in life that is always constant. Without it, life would be stagnant and boring. It would leave us nothing to talk about. Change can be good. I choose to be an optimist when it comes to change. Marilyn Monroe said it best: “Sometimes good things fall apart so better things can fall together.” I believe this as well as “everything happens for a reason.”
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HAPPY ING GIV THANKS
flaire: A natural talent or aptitude; a knack; instinctive discernment; keeness; distinctive elegance or style
F L A I R E I S A SU P P L E M E N T TO T H E T E L EG R A P H
W H AT ’ S I N S I D E
C O N T R I B U TO R S
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GENERAL MANAGER
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COVER STORY Sister Act: Nuns get into the habit of music
Kent A. Kilpatrick
Style Sense
Dan Brannan (618) 463-2560
The Bejeweled Box
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Basic Beauty Going Coconut
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December Recipe
EDITOR/SENIOR WRITER Cynthia M. Ellis cynmell@hotmail.com
ADVERTISING DIRECTOR
Strawberries and Cream Brownies
Johnny Aguirre (618) 463-2543 jaguirre@thetelegraph.com
Freshman Fashion
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Perfect Picks: Accessorizing holiday gifts
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EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Dr. Christine Seo
Corey Stulce Vicki Bennington Lynne and Eddie Agha Christine Seo, M.D.
Women and depression
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Divine Design It’s all Cleopatra’s Fault
Q&a with Melissa Etheridge
on the Cover Several Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George, from left, Sister MarieTherese, Sister M. Mikela and Sister M. Mediatrix, stand in the chapel of Saint Anthony’s Health Center, where this month they will perform with the choir at midnight Mass Christmas eve.
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Sister M. Meiatrix plays the organ, left, as Sister M. Mikela sings and Sister MarieTherese plays the violin. The three will perform with the choir from the Sisters of St. Francis of Martyr St. George throughout various functions and events during the holiday season. CYNTHIA M. ELLIS | flaire
Sister act Nuns get into the habit of music
4 December 2013
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By CYNTHIA M. ELLIS
It may be a habit to some, but nearly everyone recognizes these sisters’ identity along with their shared faith and harmony in the community. For Catholics the habit worn by a nun is a symbol of the church. No matter where she is in her community, what she’s doing, she is representing faith and God. In and around Alton, sisters can be seen nearly everywhere. Since 1925, the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George have owned and operated Saint Anthony’s Health Center in Alton. They not only serve God, but work as nurses, teachers, counselors and, lastly, musicians. Sister M. Mikela, 47, Sister Marie Therese, 44, and Sister M. Meiatrix, 38, may each serve the Sisters of St. Francis, but they also play key parts in the orders’ choir. Sister Mikela, 47, sings. Sister Marie-Therese plays the violin and Sister M. Meiatrix plays the organ. Each year during the holidays the choir performs at various functions, events and celebration, including midnight Mass in the chapel at Saint Anthony’s on Christmas Eve. Sister Mikela may serve as Saint Anthony’s vice president
of Patient Care Services, but it doesn’t stop her from being active with the choir as well. As a young girl she took music lessons, but pursued nursing as a vocation instead. “I realized even as a nurse I could still incorporate music into treatment,” she said. She said that studies have shown there are two things that help dementia patients — music and laughter. “Someone may not remember where they are, but they may hear a song and it brings up the past and they remember it like yesterday,” she said. Sister Marie-Therese’s role as a musician started 37 years ago when she began playing the violin. Before entering the convent in 1991, she attended DePaul University and then Duquesne University. She earned a degree in music education and later went on to work as a professional musician in Milwaukee. “I grew up in a traditional Polish Catholic home,” she said. “I learned a lot about religion and music.” She said her love for music comes from her father, who plays accordion. “We always played together
while I was growing up,” she said. “We still play together.” Besides playing, she also gives private violin/choir lessons through Lewis and Clark Community College’s Music Department. In January, she will begin teaching ensemble classes for three different groups. “I teach people of all ages,” she said. Besides teaching, Sister MarieTherese also plays violin in the Alton Symphony. She, along with the rest of the symphony, will perform the Christmas Memories concert at 7 p.m. Dec. 14 at LCCC. Visit altonsymphony.org for more information or to purchase tickets. Although faith is first in Sister Meiatrix’s life, music is a close second. She grew up in Jefferson City, Mo., and started playing the organ at 9 years old. During a recent practice inside the chapel at Saint Anthony’s, the deep chords from the organ resounded throughout the blessed space. “I just love the way it sounds,” she said. She said that most people associate the sound of an organ with church and God. When she’s not playing, she’s
teaching students at St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Alton. “I taught religion for two years and this fall I started teaching music,” she said. If you ever thought nuns lead a dry, boring life, think again. Besides song, they show you that loving the Holy Father and dance can go together as well. “We started ‘candle’ dancing in 1986,” she said. Sister Mikela said the tradition comes from an Indonesian province. She said that the sisters who perform hold a lit candle and each of them bend and kneel in flowing gestures as they balance the candle. “The dance has really evolved since we started doing it,” she said. “We now have sisters who have greater knowledge of music and dance.” The sisters knows that whenever people see them in the community, there are some who will stop and stare. Most see the habit they wear, but for this “sister” act music and God’s love is the habit they wish to share. Each of the women knows they are a symbol, a reminder, or God’s presence in the world, but seeing them in their attire people are reminded of it.
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The Bejeweled Box By Cynthia M. Ellis
Kate Sp a
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6 December 2013
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Kate Middleton carrying a minaudière
Get a grip on this season’s “it” bag for your holiday celebrations — the minaudière. Instead of traditional evening bag, try a structured hand-held clutch. The hard case “handbag” features a variety of materials and embellishments with a youthful appeal that you won’t be able to keep your hands off, literally. The pocketbook is considered a jewelry piece. The case allows for storage of a few essentials a woman may need when she attends her soirée — lipstick, powder compact, keys and other small items. The minaudière first appeared during the 1930s. Its invention is attributed to Charles Arpels, of Van Cleef & Arpels, but many
Diane Von Furstenburg
styleSENSE Angela Beer
jewelers and Haute Couture designers have created their own models. Arpels was inspired in creating the fashionable accessory by watching Florence Gould, third wife of philanthropist Frank Jay Gould, toss several small, loose makeup items into a tin box. If the “box” is pretty enough to look like a “crown jewel” then it would only seem right that royalty would be seen carrying one. Kate Middleton, the Duchess of Cambridge, favors those made by the British designer/brand Alexander McQueen. Check out some of the hot looks that flaire found.
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basicBEAUTY
By Cynthia M. Ellis
Going Coconut
8 December 2013
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Never mind that it’s found in the kitchen — coconut oil is becoming the most obsessed natural beauty staple. It has an enthusiastic following of fans who champion the fattyacid-rich oil as an amazing hair defrizzer, teeth whitener, body scrubber and miracle makeup remover. Below are some of the top uses for coconut oil. Coconut oil is available refined and unrefined. All references refer to unrefined coldpressed coconut oil, which still retains the beneficial fatty acids, vitamins and minerals.
other diseases. Adding baking soda and cornstarch will give it a thicker consistency, but you may still want to keep it in the refrigerator during warmer months. Mix together 1/4 cup each baking soda and cornstarch and 1/3 cup of coconut oil. Mix well then store in a jar with a tight lid or transfer to an empty deodorant container.
one part Dr. Bronner’s peppermint liquid soap (available at Walgreens or www.drbronner.com) to five parts coconut oil. Store in jar and brush as normal. Nursing mothers cream For women who nurse and have tender, cracked nipple tissue, coconut oil can not only be soothing, but also help to heal the cracked skin.
Sunscreen There are many reasons not to use store-bought sunscreen these days, the biggest being that sunscreen blocks your body’s ability to process the sun and make vitamin D. Mix one part shea butter, melted, into 2 parts of coconut oil and apply like any other sunscreen. If you are more concerned about sun exposure, you can also add one part zinc oxide.
Lip Balm Many lip balms on the market contain petroleum byproducts which actually dry the skin rather than moisturize. Coconut oil can prevent chapping and help moisturize lips. You can use it just straight from the jar, or make your own lip balm with a few simple ingredients. The below makes about 8 tubes of lip balm. Melt the below ingredients and mix together: 1 tbsp. Coconut Oil, 2 tbsp. sunflower oil, 1 tbsp. and 1 tsp .beeswax. Pour in lip balm tubs and let cool.
Moisturizer Coconut oil can be applied topically to the skin to use as a luxurious moisturizer. It is solid when kept cold, but melts at room temperature and to the touch. The oil quickly absorbs into the skin and has antioxidant properties that can help prevent aging and wrinkles. Toothpaste Most toothpastes contain Deodorant sodium laurel sulfate, or SLS, and Most of the reason that we a recent study published in the have body odor is from bacteria Journal of The American College growing on our skin. Coconut of Toxicology showed concentraoil has antibacterial propertions as low as 5 percent of could ties so applying it as deodorant cause irritation, and concentraworks wonders. Store-bought tions of 10 to 30 percent caused antiperspirants and deodorants skin corrosion and severe irritacontain aluminum, which some tion. The ingredient may be somestudies show may contribute to thing you want to avoid. Alzheimer’s, breast cancer and Make your own by combining
Hair conditioner Whether you have frizzy curls or limp straight hair, coconut oil is a great hair and scalp treatment. The same way it can nourish your skin, coconut oil can nourish your hair. Use it as a leave-in treatment to hold curls or keep your style straight.
Coconut oil has an enthusiastic following of fans who champion the fatty-acid-rich oil as an amazing hair de-frizzer, teeth whitener, body scrubber and miracle makeup remover.
Lubricant Many couples use store-bought chemically based lubricants. Coconut oil is natural, inexpensive and if you can use it for all these other things, why not use it for lubricant. Coconut oil is harmless to the tender tissues of the vagina and has antiviral and antibacterial properties that can be beneficial. Somehow coconut oil kills the bad bacteria, but does not harm the beneficial bacteria in the body. Do be mindful, though, that oil of any sort is incompatible with latex and should not be used with diaphragms or condoms. Makeup remover Coconut oil is a great moisturizing make-up remover. Simply apply coconut oil to a cotton ball and wipe over eye makeup, and the rest of the face.
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Alton resident finds stress relief in the kitchen
Sara (Jackson) Snyder, of Alton, is known for her desserts, like Almond Joy layered cake and Strawberries and Cream Brownies. In the summer, she uses in-season fruits to make fruit pizza and different flavors of homemade ice cream. Photo Vicki Bennington
BY VICKI BENNINGTON
10 December 2013
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With two small children and a third on the way, Alton resident Sara (Jackson) Snyder doesn’t have a lot of time on her hands. Nonetheless, she still
takes the time to make hot family meals nearly every night. Sara and her husband, Adam, married seven years ago after meeting at Tony’s Restaurant, where Sara worked at the time. She also taught first grade at Evangelical School in Godfrey for several years after earning her bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville. Growing up, Sara’s mom was a good cook, and she often watched her prepare meals, but it wasn’t until she and Adam got together that she began to try her own hand in the kitchen.
“My mom gave me a recipe box for Christmas filled with recipes I had grown up with,” Sara said. “That was a great way to start.” Adam often asks for her chicken Cajun pasta or chicken Parmesan, one of the first meals she ever cooked for him. “Fortunately, he likes almost everything – and so do I,” Sara said. “So that makes us expect the kids to feel the same. But sometimes they are a little picky.” In addition to comfort meals and new dishes she finds on Pinterest, she makes all kinds of pizza, usually with her own
Strawberries & Cream Brownies FIRST LAYER: 1 box of brownie mix (make according to pkg. directions) NOTE: Can be prepared in a rectangular baking dish or on a baking stone (with stone, use parchment paper to keep brownie mix from running off).
SECOND LAYER: 8 oz. cream cheese 1 c. Cool Whip 1 c. powdered sugar
THIRD LAYER: Fresh strawberries or 1 can strawberry pie filling Prepare and bake first layer. When cool, mix ingredients for second layer and spread over brownies. Top with third layer.
dough. She’s “known” for her desserts, like Almond Joy layered cake and Strawberries and Cream Brownies. In the summer, she uses in-season fruits to make fruit pizza and different flavors of homemade ice cream. She started a tradition of making special birthday cakes for the children. So far, she has a 3-D cow, a fire truck, Toy Story cake and a Minnie Mouse cake under her belt. In December, Sara, her mom and aunt, look forward to a massive baking day. All come armed with a few new recipes to combine with the tried and true treats they make every year to create a huge variety of cookies and candies like peanut butter cups, Amish sugar cookies, coconut joys, caramels, divinity and Oreo balls. “We divide it all up at the end of the day, and our families anxiously await to see what we bring home,” Sara said. “We give it to friends, teachers, and have
it on hand as friends stop by for the holidays.” On Christmas day, Sara prepares brunch for the immediate family, then grandparents come for dinner. With a ham at the center, Sara varies side dishes and desserts, trying to outdo herself each year. “Cooking is my stress reliever,” she said. The family moved to Louisville for two years, while Adam was enrolled in a pediatric dentistry residency program. Recently returned to the area, he will soon be opening his new office in Alton. Since moving back, Sara has been catching up with family, and the couple are redoing their house as time allows. The grandparents are always eager to give the two a night out, when they go to old St. Charles or other local restaurants for dinner. They like to travel and often visit Missouri’s Big Cedar Lodge, relaxing by the pool while surrounded by nature.
Are you financially prepared for parenthood? (StatePoint) The cost of raising a child is on the rise, according to the “2013 U.S. Cost of Raising a Child” report, conducted by BabyCenter. com, the number one pregnancy and parenting mobile and web destination worldwide. The report finds that parents spend an average of $13,000 annually on their kids. And while about two-thirds of moms feel that parents are spending too much, the vast majority of them are very optimistic about their future — the number of moms worried about having enough money to raise their children has declined approximately 10 percent in the last year. “Children are expensive, but
couples aren’t letting that hold them back from starting a family,” says Carmen Wong Ulrich, a BabyCenter.com financial expert. “They’re exploring different ways of saving, such as moving back in with their parents or accepting money from in-laws. These can be good short-term solutions for couples getting started.” To gain insight into their finances and take steps toward financial independence, parents can use a free budgeting tool, such as BabyCenter.com’s Cost Calculator. More information about the “Cost of Raising a Child” report is available at www.BabyCenter.com/ child-cost.
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C
Perfect Picks Accessorizing holiday gifts
hristmas is just around the corner and we all know it can be a struggle to find the perfect presents for family and friends. There are many things to choose from and not enough time to explore it all. Often popular gifts run out quickly around the end of the season, leaving only less likable or unwanted gifts. A great gift I feel that most people would enjoy is the “giving key”. A giving key is a necklace that has a chain with a key attached to it, the key is engraved with an inspirational word. Some examples of the words engraved on the key are dream, believe, fearless, faith and hope just to name a few. They are a reminder to be a better person and stay true to yourself. The giving key goes great with many items of clothing, are very stylish and can be layered with multiple necklaces. They can be found at Hazel2blue in Alton or online. Another great gift would be a bracelet made by “Alex and Ani.” They come in silver or gold. The bracelet is a thin wire bangle that has a circular charm. The charms have anything from an initial, a zodiac sign, a religious symbol and many other choices to choose from. You can layer them together or just wear them by themselves. The bracelets can be found at White Birch in Godfrey or Nordstrom. In addition to these gifts another choice would be a watch. Some time pieces can cost quite a bit, such as the ones from Michael Kors, but at Target they have almost identical looking watches that are around $20 to $30. The watches at Target come in different colors such as gold, silver, rose gold and even white. They are stylish and make a great accessory. Lotti Dottie’s also make a great gift. Lotti Dottie’s are rings that have an interchangeable charm in the center. There are many different styles of rings to choose from and each charm has a magnet attached that fits in the center of the ring. This is a very affordable accessory because the ring can be versatile with each outfit your wear or can be taylor end to your personality. There are initial charms, holiday charms or rhinestone charms. The ring is $12.99 and the charms are $5.99; they can be purchased at The Gift Box in Alton. These gift ideas all cost less than $50 and are great accessories that can be worn with almost anything. For more ideas, visit the each of the stores and give back by shopping local. Karoline Lauritzen
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Women and depression
Dr. Christine SEO
14 December 2013
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Internal Medicine/ Geriatrics Specialist
During the course of a lifetime, a woman has many occasions for joy; ironically, many of these same occasions become triggers for depression. It’s normal for new mothers to have brief periods of post-partum blues, but 15 percent develop clinical depression, a severe mood disorder that affects ability to function normally. Women who have had previous bouts of depression are at high risk. Pregnancy itself is a time when most women feel a sense of calm and well-being; yet 10 percent become depressed. Puberty is a time when social stresses are high, but girls are much more likely than boys to develop depression as a result. And depression increases again in late life around the time of menopause. Depression is more than feeling down; everybody gets the blues from time to time. Depression is a serious, life-threatening mood disorder that can occur even when the person has no obvious reason to be sad and many reasons to be happy.
In addition to feeling sad or “empty,” symptoms include: • problems with sleeping or eating, • loss of energy, • lack of interest or pleasure in usual activities, including sex; • feelings of guilt, worthlessness, hopelessness and pessimism; • irritability, restlessness, excessive crying; • thoughts of death or suicide. These symptoms are persistent over an extended period and make it difficult to concentrate and carry out daily activities. Throughout life, women have a high rate of depression, twice as high as the rate for men in most countries and among all races and ethnic groups. Many cases of depression go undiagnosed, and symptoms are sometimes different for men than for women. Men are more likely to demonstrate anger, aggression or risk-taking behavior; women, to have anxiety and physical symptoms such as headaches or stomach problems. For both men and women, symptoms often get
overlooked or diagnosed as something else. Women are more likely to seek help for symptoms of depression. They are also more likely to develop depression earlier in life and to have more recurring episodes. As to why women are particularly vulnerable, researchers have explored numerous reasons – biological, genetic and psychosocial. BIOLOGY: Differences in thyroid function between men and women may explain some of the extra risk faced by women. In addition, women may have different patterns of the circadian rhythms that regulate sleep and activity. And depressed women are more likely than men to have excessive sleeping as opposed to insomnia as a symptom. Neurotransmitters that affect mood are believed to be affected by the female hormone estrogen, explaining at least some of the mood changes a woman experiences during puberty, pregnancy, after childbirth and around the time when estrogen production declines during menopause. As many as 40 percent of women experience some changes in mood and behavior around the
toms and seek help promptly to halt the downward spiral. Treatment ordinarily includes some combination of medication and therapy, although women who are breast feeding, pregnant or could become pregnant must PSYCHOSOCIAL factors can always weigh the benefits and risks influence depression during pregGENETIC: For both men and of taking any medication. Large nancy or after the birth of a child. women, there is a strong family studies have found no significant Married women with a great deal connection – a 25 percent rate of increase in birth defects among of support, even those with high depression when someone else women taking tricyclic antidepressocioeconomic status, also suffer in the immediate family has been sants and SSRIs, but no medication depressed. This family link is more postpartum depression, feeling suddenly overwhelmed without any is risk free. MAO inhibitors may common among females than males, and symptoms often appear plausible explanation. Single moth- harm a developing fetus. And lithiers – whether divorced, separated um has been linked to birth defects. early, between ages 15 and 30. Both interpersonal and cogniGenetic factors undoubtedly play or never married – have a threea role in this increased vulnerability, fold higher rate of depression, and tive behavioral therapies have been found effective. Talk therapy the depression is more likely to but a depressed parent can also occur earlier in life. At least some of provides support and offers a have a negative effect, hindering this vulnerability may be related to chance to change negative thought normal bonding and sometimes patterns. In addition, studies have even contributing to physical, emo- a lower income status. found that it actually produces Women who have suffered tional or sexual abuse. changes in the brain and in neurophysical or sexual abuse at any It’s a vicious cycle. A woman chemicals affecting mood. time in life are much more likely who is depressed, for whatever Women are more likely than to develop depression. One study reason, is less likely to care for found that 100 percent of women men to have co-existing probherself properly during preglems such as anxiety or eating nancy. She is less likely to get the who faced severe sexual abuse sleep and nutrition she needs and situations in childhood later devel- disorders. And these too require treatment. more likely to use alcohol or other oped depression. Dr. Seo is a board-certified While it may be difficult to drugs. After giving birth, she may internal medicine physician with have a more difficult time bonding change these psychosocial and cultural conditions, the depression Saint Anthony’s Physician Group. with her child which, in turn, can For an appointment with Dr. Seo, that results is highly treatable. It’s lead to behavior problems and call (618) 462-2222. important to recognize the sympadditional stress on the mother. time of their menstrual period (premenstrual syndrome or PMS). A smaller number (2 to 10 percent) have more severe problems known as Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PDD).
Any traumatic experience, such as the loss of a parent during childhood, or loss of social support from family members increases the risk of depression.
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THE BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK
KITCHEN REMODELING TIPS
16 December 2013
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(StatePoint) Kitchen remodelthough cabinet replacement can ing can significantly increase be pricey, giving your existing home value. However this can get cabinets a new look can come at extremely expensive. But simple an affordable price tag. Remove kitchen fix-ups can add both value the original finish and add a new and comfort to your space. stain coat. Or paint the cabinets With this in mind, consider a bold color. Combine the paint sprucing up your kitchen without with a crackling glaze to give the breaking the bank. Don’t know cabinets a weathered appearwhere to start? Try these tips from ance. HomeAdvisor, a leading website • Redo lighting: Altering the offering resources for home repair lighting in your kitchen can and improvement projects: give it a different look and feel. • Fix the countertops: Changing Track lighting is a good aescan significantly increase the the material of kitchen counterthetic choice with many different kitchen’s value. Large appliances, tops is a simple way to make an options. Add a few task lamps to such as the refrigerator, oven and impact in the room. Materials improve the functionality of the stove, should be upgraded first. such as ceramic, laminate, work space area. Dimmers are • Restyle the floor: Laying a new granite and siltstone are all great easy to install and can make the floor doesn’t have to be a costly options. Laminate is the most atmosphere of the room more project. Materials such as peelcost effective and granite is the versatile. and-stick vinyl tiles are inexpenmost popular. • Upgrade appliances: Buying even sive and can be easy to install. • Refinish the cabinets: Even just one or two new appliances Other excellent options include
linoleum, porcelain, cork and stained concrete. More great ideas for your kitchen and beyond can be found at www.HomeAdvisor.com. You don’t need to start from scratch to give your kitchen a makeover. With small improvements, you can get a great return on your investment.
Winter wellness tips (StatePoint) Cooler temperatures often bring along the season’s sniffles and colds. With a few winter wellness tips, you can prepare for a happier and healthier season, regardless of your budget, with the following tips from the lifestyle experts at Dollar General. • Preventive care. A nutritious diet and plenty of rest can help you stay strong this winter so consider keeping juices, vegetables and fruits in your fridge all winter long. You can improve your nutritional balance and overall wellness with vitamins and supplements. Trusted Rexall-branded products, available exclusively at Dollar General, offer vitamins and minerals including immunity-boosting Vitamin C and multivitamins to combat potential illnesses. You can also purchase these items in bulk online to save money and trips to the store.
• Stock your medicine cabinet. When illness strikes, the last thing you’ll want to do is rush to the store. A well-stocked medicine cabinet can save a trip when you’re feeling your worst. Keep over-the-counter cold and flu relief medications on-hand for both day and night, as well as cough suppressant and a general pain reliever. Parents should ensure they have medications suitable for children, too. • Healthy skin. Skin is prone to dryness in winter, so apply moisturizer as soon as you get out of the shower. If possible, ditch the scalding hot showers for warm water, as heat can be very drying. Don’t forget that the sun’s rays can be just as potent in winter as in summer, so don’t neglect the sunscreen and lip balm just because of the cool temperatures. • Germ-free. While germs exist year-round, your body may be more susceptible to cold and
flu viruses in winter. Be sure to wash your hands thoroughly and use a hand sanitizer. • Soup’s on. Start all your winter meals with a warm bowl of soup full of protein, vegetables and liquids. If you don’t have the time to make soup from scratch, healthful and delicious ready-made soup can be a great alternative. • Stay active: Don’t let your exercise routine fall by the wayside in winter. Exercise can improve your immunity and also help keep winter pounds at bay. If you don’t have a gym membership, gear up with exercise apparel designed for cooler temperatures and pound the pavement or pop in an exercise video at home. More tips and coupons for winter wellness tools can be found at www.DollarGeneral.com. With some preparation, staying healthy in winter can be easy and affordable.
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IT’S ALL CLEOPATRA’S FAULT usually in gold with precious and semiprecious stones simulating its splendorous colors. Cobras and asps were also depicted in the tomb paintings and were components of the Egyptian hieroglyphics. As the popular cartoon asks: “Do you spell that word with one asp or two?” LYNNE & EDDIE AGHA A snake, specifically a serpent, Agha Designs Jewelry Studio had the villainous starring role in one of the earliest stories, and The story of Cleopatra is to this day is synonymous with crawling with snakes. Snakes, deception and evil knowledge. the most hated, feared and Since some snakes are truly and reviled of all the animals in the fatally poisonous they really do world, somehow are still an deserve the fear, especially since interesting symbol of power. they can be easily overlooked There are people who cannot in their natural habitat. Luckily say the word “snake” without a for North American inhabitants, shudder, but as jewelry a snake our poisonous snakes are fewer or a similar sinuous coil can be and slightly less potent than compelling. Perhaps having an their counterparts in other coninanimate but interesting depic- tinents, like the deadly African tion of a snake makes us their black mamba. master and they are therefore In recent centuries the cadunot as frightening. ceus has been used to symAn analogy of this is the bolize various aspects of the woman we know who had golden medical profession. Basically it pins of bees yet was terrified of is a herald’s staff with wings at the real ones because she was the top (usually associated with fatally allergic to their stings. Mercury/Hermes) and with one Her bejeweled babies were not or two serpents wrapped around frightening; they were beautiful it. As such it symbolized a nonand totally tamed, and somehow combatant person, like a medithey made the real ones a trifle cal person, who held special less frightening to her. knowledge. The Egyptians used an upright Many of us can claim to have snake, probably a cobra, next to the Celts in our ancestral lina vulture head on the ceremoeage. The Celtic knots are often nial headdress of the pharaoh stylized depictions of serpents, to signify his power. Upright intertwined, simplified, and snakes also were used on varitherefore, tamed to the hand of ous circlets and crowns for royal humanity. Heraldry also has its wives and daughters. Bracelets, share of serpents in its portfolio upper arm bands, rings and col- of symbols. lars sported the slithery serpent, The Victorians used snakes
as jewelry motifs, especially for rings and bracelets. In the pictures here you will see several rings with two intertwined serpents. Perhaps the straightlaced Victorians did not need Sigmund Freud to interpret some of their imagery but used the serpents intentionally. The oldest ring, from the late 1800s, looks to me like a snake with
a frog ancestor, but that just might be the artist’s error in modeling the face. As deadly and fearsome as they might be in real life, in art and jewelry the snake can be quite interesting and tame. Just look at the pictures; they won’t move. www.AghaDesigns.com And on Facebook
CREATE WARM SNUGGLY DAYS THIS WINTER
(StatePoint) Your house serves as a safe haven from whipping winds during the long chill of winter. When the days are short and the nights are long, making your rooms warmer and more inviting can brighten the mood of the whole house. Combat winter blues by creating comfy days this winter with these tips from the experts at Sun Products, the makers of Snuggle fabric softener: BREAKFAST IN BED: It may feel decadent, but breakfast in bed is the perfect way to stay cozy as you get the day started. MOVIE NIGHT: Set aside a night each week to snuggle up on the couch for movie night. Be sure your family room or living room is decked out with plenty of pillows and just-washed throw blankets. Put some popcorn on the stove for a piping hot treat.
and other laundry with a fabric softener. Extend the cozy feeling of a hot shower by wrapping up in soft, fluffy fresh-scented towels and robes. To put a good mood in the air, look for a fabric softener with a long-lasting scent and freshness. For example, Snuggle Exhilarations comes in five fragrance combinations, such as white lavender and sandalwood and wild orchid and vanilla, that last from wash to wash.
Monkey Business - Shutterstock.com
BUILD A FORT: Looking for a fun family activity? Build a fort using snuggly soft sheets. Play a board game or work on a puzzle in your cozy fort.
mallows and sing-alongs. Make sure the kids have their favorite teddy bears to cuddle up with for when you tell scary stories!
SOFTEN UP: Create comfier FIREPLACE: Get the fireplace rooms all around the house by going and have a “campfire� in your giving your fabrics a touch of softliving room, complete with marsh- ness. Treat sheets, linens, blankets
MAKE SOUP: Nothing is more hearty and fulfilling then a big bowl of soup in winter. Make a big batch of healthy soup at the start of the week and serve it as a side all week long. More tips on creating cuddly days in winter can be found at www.facebook.com/snuggle. With a bit of care, you can stay warm and cozy all winter long at home.
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Upcoming Etheridge release unveils rarities, B-sides
20 December 2013
flaire FOR WOMEN
By Corey Stulce
album stuff. This is stuff like the 11th song on that fourth album that I had 10 songs on. CorEY: I did hear that there was a song you did when you were 14. MELissa: Oh yeah, I have this recording that was done when I was 14. It was the first band I was in, and we used a reel to reel, and I recorded some songs. It’s very cute. CorEY: Are these originals? MELissa: Yeah, originals. I was writing back then. I was crazy. CorEY: I put it out to a couple of my social media folks to see if there was something about you they really wanted to know, and a friend is very adamant about wanting to get a live version of ‘The Weakness in Me’ on iTunes. MELissa: On iTunes? Well, I don’t think there’s one now, but that’s funny because it will be on the box set.
CorEY: With all the work you’ve done and all the support you Photo by James Minchin III | For flaire have given cancer survivors, I know you’ve met some fans who are very ill. I’m curious, how do you keep that brave face and give them that power to keep moving? It’s hard to believe it’s been a doing my own tour of arenas. even on stage I find myself talkMELissa: I am always honored quarter-century since Melissa I just came out, and it was a ing to the audience like, ‘Wow, when those who have been told Etheridge first demanded, “Bring big deal. I thought, ‘I’m going how did I get this old so fast?’ You that there’s nothing anyone can Me Some Water” and showed us to finally sing a couple of the know, still loving rock ’n’ roll and do for them, when they come to her “Chrome Plated Heart.” But, songs that I never sang because how to be 40 or 50. I think it’s a me. I always do the same thing. yes, it’s been 25 years since her they were about girls,’ so I sang common thing. First, I separate them from their debut on Island Records. ‘Maggie May,’ and I sang ‘You people they bring because those Her longtime label reminded Shook Me All Night Long.’ This is CorEY: Do you recall your first people sometimes tend to be Etheridge and said, “Hey, how back in like 1996, and my band concert? very enabling and sort of feeling about a retrospective?” but rath- that I have now just found out. MELissa: I went with the first sorry for them all the time. So er than retread and re-release Of course, they’re AC/DC fanatband that I was ever with, which I pull them aside, and I say, ‘OK the existing albums, Etheridge ics. We were asked to play a long was a country band, and we saw what were you told?’ decided to open the vaults and show, and I said, ‘OK, we’ll do it.’ I Buck Owens. Is that something? ‘It’s Stage Four, and there’s dig out many B sides, live cuts barely remembered all the lyrics. nothing they can do.’ I look at and lost treasures. Actually, who knows the second CorEY: That’s a memorable first them, and I go, ‘That’s awesome.’ As of this writing, the Melissa verse of that song? All you know show. And they say, ‘Why?’ and I say, Etheridge box set did not have a is ‘American thighs.’ MELissa: I know. Buck Owens ‘Look at you. You are now at the release date, but she told flaire and his blue guitar. The second most envious place anyone can she hopes to have it ready in CorEY: I’m still digging on the was The Eagles. I used to say that be. You have nothing to lose. time for Christmas gifts. I caught latest album, ‘4th Street Feeling,’ was my first concert, but I finally You can do anything. You can up with Melissa backstage at and being a Midwesterner myself, had to start fessing up. It’s Buck go completely change your life. Mountain Winery, while she was it’s great that some of those Owens, and I’m proud of it now. Something might happen along on tour in Saratoga, California. tracks harken back there. There the way. You might be that mirawas almost like a longing there. CorEY: I think a lot of people cle-cured person.’ Because that’s CorEY stuLCE: I was looking MELissa: Oh, yes. are going to get very excited what it usually takes is someone at a couple of recent set lists, and about the box set that you’ve to get out of their physical and you did, AC/DC’s “You Shook Me CorEY: They say you can take been working on. Is there a lot of emotional-spiritual hold that All Night Long.” Just imagining the girl out of the Midwest, but rare stuff ? they’ve dug in and get out and that made me giddy. you can’t take the Midwest out of MELissa: It’s been this conget healthy. I’ve actually seen MELissa EthEriDGE: It was the girl. stantly shifting project because some people get up, and they crazy; I used to do that when MELissa: Oh, no. I look back to of the enormous amount of keep coming back. I’m like, ‘Look ‘Yes I Am’ came out. I was finally that a lot with this album, and material I have. This is not studio at you! You’re still alive!’
flaire FOR WOMEN
December 2013 21
TRAVELING THIS HOLIDAY?
22 December 2013
flaire FOR WOMEN
TAKE YOUR FAMILY TRADITIONS ON THE ROAD
(StatePoint) Traveling this holiday season? Even if you aren’t in the comfort of your own home, you can make the experience special for your family. From decorating your hotel room to welcoming Santa, there are ways you can still enjoy those holiday traditions that are near and dear to you. By taking your traditions on the road, your family can capture the holiday spirit in your temporary home-away-from home. Here are a few tips for making the time special, no matter where you are: • Tell your destination if you are celebrating something special before you arrive. They may be able to accommodate or assist you with your plans. • Just because you’re not at home, doesn’t mean Santa won’t deliver. Don’t let those presents go unopened until you get back home. Bring them with you on the road. You can even consider setting up a small Christmas tree in your hotel room. • Bring your family’s elf along for the ride to keep your little ones on their toes – and on the “nice” list! Whether he’s peeking out of the drapes or hanging from the fan, a hotel room offers some creative hiding spots. • Try asking the front desk to have milk and cookies delivered (qui-
Photo courtesy of Great Wolf Lodge Resorts etly) late at night. • If possible, book a suite with a fire- Even if you’re traveling, you can make great holiday memories with your family. place and bring along the stockings to hang. • You may not be able to pack up your kitchen and bring it with you, but you can still have a delicious holiday meal. Many hotels and lodges serve up all the seasonal favorites, like turkey, mashed potatoes, roasted pork and holiday desserts. Reserve a spot for dinner in advance so you don’t miss out on a home-style meal. “Families don’t need to fear losing out on making special memories or feeling far from home while vacationing during the holidays,” says Phillip Cunningham, General Manager for Great Wolf Lodge New England, one of 11 indoor waterpark resorts nationwide that makes it a point to honor guests’ holiday traditions, and encourage new ones. With this in mind, Great Wolf Lodge’s annual “Snowland” tradition speaks to that sentiment – the enchanted winter wonderland includes indoor snow showers, twinkling lights, life-size gingerbread houses and visits from Santa. More information is available at http://www.greatwolf.com/snowland. Home is where the heart is. So celebrate the season with your family -wherever you are.
Tips for smart media use for kids (StatePoint) From TV to smart phones to social media, our lives are dominated by 24/7 media exposure. Despite this, many children and teens have few rules around their media use. While media consumption by itself is not the leading cause of any health problem in the U.S., it can contribute to numerous health risks, say experts. At the same time, kids can learn many positive things from “pro-social” media. The key is to teach children to make healthy media choices. “It is time for a renewed commitment to change the way we address media use,” says Dr. Thomas K. McInerny, president of the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP). “In the same way you may need to guide children on how to eat nutritiously, you can foster a healthy media diet.” In a digital world ever in flux, the AAP is offering some key tips for families looking to make smarter media choices: • Make a media use plan, including mealtime and bedtime “cur-
social media sites your children use. By “friending” your kids, you can monitor their online presence. • Keep the computer in a public part of your home, so you can check on what your kids are doing online and how much time they are spending there. • Look for media choices that are educational, or teach good values — such as empathy, racial and ethnic tolerance — and interpersonal skills. • If you’re unsure of the quality of the “media diet” in your household, consult with your children’s pediatrician on what your kids are A healthy media diet balances the risks of too much media on your child’s viewing, how much time they are growth and progress with some of the pro-social benefits media offer. spending with media, and privacy fews” for media devices. Media use unstructured play and human inter- and safety issues associated with social media and Internet use. plans take into account not only the action for screen time. The opporMore healthy media tips for famiquantity, but the quality and locatunity to think creatively, problem lies can be found at www.healthytion of media use. Screens should solve and develop reasoning and children.org. be kept out of kids’ bedrooms. motor skills is more valuable for A healthy media diet balances • Excessive media use has been the developing brain than passive the risks of too much media on associated with obesity, lack of media intake. your child’s growth and progress sleep, school problems, aggression • Take an active role in your with some of the pro-social benefits and other behavior issues. Limit children’s media education by comedia offer. Be mindful of how your entertainment screen time to less viewing programs with them and than one or two hours per day. discussing values. You may consider children interact with media and take steps for healthful choices. • For children under 2, substitute having your own profile on the
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24 December 2013
flaire FOR WOMEN