Kentucky Creative Living

Page 1


CreativeLiving Features 8 12 15

Your best interest at heart Check out what three featured local businesses have to offer you.

How to experience the excitement Discover ways to really relish in the joy of becoming engaged.

How to make your resolutions last It’s a new year, so learn some new tricks to keep your goals in check.

Editor’s note Brrrr it’s cold outside! So curl up in your favorite blanket and settle in for a great read about local businesses and great deals. Be sure to check out the special center spread on three area businesses that have your best interest at heart. In times of economic hardship, it’s important to support your local businesses. After all, it stimulates the local economy and local businesses are able to provide the goods and services you need like no other.

Specialty Publications Editor

Contact Creative Living is a monthly advertising-sponsored magazine published by the Specialty Publications Department of The Community Press/The Community Recorder.

Page 12

Topics night 3 Restful Sleep apnea

Home 10 At Decor • Repair

4 Dental Gums • Teeth

12 Bridal Attire • Honeymoon

7 Local Business

14 Health & Fitness

Goods • Services

8 Good Service Your best interest

Mind • Body

Questions and comments can be sent to Editor Melissa Hayden c/o The Community Press/394 Wards Corner/Loveland, OH 45140 or e-mail mhayden@communitypress.com.

For advertising call 578-5501.


S L E E P

H E A L T H

Dr. Kitzmiller has a New Year’s solution for snoring and sleep apnea

F

or many of us, Jan. 1 signals the date for an annual ritual … making New Year’s Resolutions! We want to lose weight, have better relationships, and feel better. Did you know that by treating your snoring and obstructive sleep apnea that issues like weight loss, daytime energy, and sleeping in the same room again can become a reality? An estimated 40 million Americans snore and nearly 20 million have sleep apnea, a condition where the airway collapses during sleep, causing the person to stop breathing and awaken multiple times every hour with a gasp. Sleep apnea is a life-threatening sleep disorder that left undiagnosed and untreated can shorten your lifespan up to 18 years! Treatment options include CPAP machines, surgery, and oral appliances. While CPAP is the gold standard of sleep apnea treatment, many people can’t tolerate the masks and hoses. An oral appliance is an FDA approved CPAP alternaNot sure if you tive that fits have sleep apnea? over your Take a teeth and quick quiz at holds the www.cincisleep.com lower jaw to see if you forward, are at risk. keeping your airway from collapsing. Every day, patients experience the benefits of Dr. Kitzmiller’s oral appliance therapy and rave about how it has changed their life. “Since getting an oral appliance with Dr. Kitzmiller I’ve been feeling awesome! It has significantly affected my

Kentucky

quality of life. I’ve passed on the word about this treatment to my patients to help them take the right step to get their sleep apnea treated. You all are excellent!” said M. Jones, nurse practitioner Want to see what a difference oral appliance therapy can be to treat your snoring or sleep apnea? Give Dr. Kitzmiller a call at 248-8848 to schedule your complimentary consultation. Dr. Kitzmiller and his team can coordinate your entire care process, including scheduling your diagnostic sleep study, treatment visits, insurance and follow-up. Just go to www.cincisleep.com to learn more!

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

3


D E N T A L

C A R E

Will you become a self-fulfilling prophesy? T

here are people out there that are hesitant, even afraid of coming to the dentist because they are trying to avoid pain, spending money, or time they don’t have. They may feel that their teeth don’t hurt yet or that they can’t afford to have fillings done or that work and family don’t leave enough time to get anything else done. Unfortunately, what is seen all too often is that patients wait until something hurts. When they get in they have had to miss work and most likely end up needing treatment that is much more exten-

sive and expensive to a tooth that could otherwise have been fixed with a simple filling at a fraction of the cost without pain or emergency time off work. By coming in to have an exam done the only thing that will change is your ability to be in control of how much time and money you spend by planning ahead. Also problems that are addressed when they are small cause little or no discomfort to fix. The Mortenson Family Dental team truly cares about the comfort of their patients and will treat you with the utmost care and respect.

Generations of smiles trust local dental practice A

lot of smiles have come in out of the door over the past 40 years at the office of Anderson, Smith, and Elliott Family Dentistry and their practice continues to grow. Known for providing exceptional dental care in a patient-focused and family friendly practice, doctors Anderson, Smith, and Elliott enjoy caring for and meeting the individual dental needs of all of their patients. “We put the patients first and cater to their individual needs. Several generations of families have been taken care of here,” said Dr. Tom Smith . The dentists and staff strive to provide quality care in a comfortable, relaxed environment and treat their patients like they are members of their own family. Patients are carefully listened to and their questions and concerns are answered and addressed in a caring manner.

4

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Staying current on the latest developments and technology in dentistry is of utmost importance to the staff at Anderson, Smith, and Elliott. “We have the best staff of hygienists. They are very knowledgeable and it is important to them to stay current on their continued education,” said Smith. The complete care provided by the practice can benefit every member of your family. They are committed to helping their patients maintain good oral health and a beautiful smile for a lifetime. “With an initial visit to our office the patient can expect to receive a thorough dental examination, good communication, and to be treated according to the 'golden rule',” said Dr. Ronnie Elliott. Located at 265 Main Street in Florence, the dental practice of Anderson, Smith, and Elliott welcome you to call their office at 371-4620 and join their family of patients.

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

Kentucky


D E N T A L

C A R E

High-tech dentistry, family-friendly environment

D

r. Tiffany Buller-Schussler knew she wanted to be a dentist from the time she was 9 years old. Now her determination and years of education have paid off, and in the past 11 years she has gained insight and knowledge from the patients she has treated as a dentist. Last year she opened her family dental practice in Hebron, in the Remke Market Plaza – and she loves it here. “In our practice we want all of our patients and their families to feel welcome and comfortable,” says Dr. Schussler. “We have designed our office to be gentle and inviting, and this is what we want people to take away with them-the feeling of being comfortable while here, like going to a family gathering, or visiting with some friends,” she said. Dr. Schussler knows that there are many people who are nervous about, or, uncomfortable with, dental procedures of any type, and she works with each

Kentucky

patient to try and determine the source of the fear, and thus put it to rest by not repeating it. “During a patient's visit, we spend 60 to 80 minutes with them, talking about the expectations they have for their smile, performing a comprehensive exam, taking only necessary X-rays, and cleaning their teeth. This is when most adults will express their concerns about any future procedures,” she said. “Children are different,” said Dr. Schussler. “Some kids will jump right up in the chair and say, ‘My turn!’ Others are more shy, so, for very young patients we perform the exam on their parent's lap to make it seem less threatening. We just take it as slow as they need.” Dr. Schussler performs most dental procedures, including whitening, extractions, and root canals, as well as all routine care. Patients who require orthodontic care will be referred as needed. Both doctor and staff communicate the importance of good

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

oral care to patients, with respect to keeping and maintaining their teeth in relationship with their total body health. Studies show links to exist between oral care and cardiovascular health and diabetes. “We perform a thorough assessment of each patient, diagnosing any oral conditions, developing a treatment plan, controlling inflammation and disease, and make a plan to keep their mouth healthy,” she said. “Through education and counseling, we gently put the patient on the right path for good oral health,” said Dr. Schussler. “One of the goals I have for my practice is to be here for several generations. I hope to follow the children I see today, right into the time when they can bring their children in, too. “I want to see the whole fami-

ly, not just a few members. In fact, we'd like to remind parents to schedule their children's visits regularly, as even though school has just let out for the summer, that time will quickly be here again,” she said. In conclusion, Dr. Schussler said that she would like to provide treatment to each generation without fear of dental procedures, counseling the ideal that everyone will consider good oral care an to be an integral part of the health of the whole person. Dr. Tiffany Buller-Schussler offers digital radiographs, paperless charting and registration, and has convenient office hours including one evening per week, and Saturdays. Visit them at www. schusslerdentistry.com, or call her competent and friendly staff at 653-0525 to set up your appointment.

CreativeLiving Call 248-7685

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

5


D E N T A L

C A R E

Happy New Year from Dr. Tara Dallmann and her team at Gentle Dental Care T

his is the time of year where most people make their New Years Resolutions, start their diets and profess changes to their lifestyle that will make them happier healthy people. This means physicals, eye exams, and dental visits. None of which tend to be very popular places to go. However, at Gentle Dental Care Dr. Dallmann and her wonderful team do all they can to make dental visits a pleasant experience. The best place to start may be with an exam and cleaning. Everyone feels better after their cleaning, because you know you

The Gentle Dental Care team does all they can to make dental visits a pleasant experience. are doing something to not only enhance your smile but most importantly keep you healthy. Dr. Dallmann wants you to start the New Year off right. What better way to encourage dental health than to protect what you already have with sealants. What are sealants? Sealants are a plastic material that is applied to the chewing surface of back teeth, molars and side teeth (bicuspids). The plastic material seeps into grooves of

chewing surfaces and is hardened. Sealants create a barrier that protects from bacteria and plaque acids, preventing cavities. What factors could make an adult a candidate for sealants? The best way to determine the need for sealants is to evaluate the person’s risk for pit and fissure decay, which continues throughout adulthood and varies from one person to another. Risk can also vary for the same person over time, because changes in

personal habits, health status and medication use are known to increase risk for decay. Lack of access to fluorides and fluoridated water, a history of previous decay, and chronic xerostomia (dry mouth) are also factors Dr. Dallmann will consider when evaluating you for sealants. Do sealants help save money? Prevention is better than treatment. When one considers that properly applied and maintained sealants are extremely

effective in preventing pit and fissure decay, sealants are a very cost-effective measure. Savings in both dollars and discomfort can be gained by application of sealants, rather than allowing decay and requiring the tooth to be restored. Gentle Dental Care is offering adults over age 18 a “buy one get one free” on all sealants when accompanied by an exam and cleaning. Plus if you bring this ad in you can received $10 off your cleaning as well.

Don’t miss the February issue...

CreativeLiving Call 578-5501

6

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

Kentucky


L O C A L

B U S I N E S S

D o n ’t b e l e f t o u t Call 578-5501 to learn how you can be a part of the February 2110 edition of the Private

School Directory, published bi-annually by The Community Press/Recorder.

CreativeLiving

Reach all of the family Call 578-5501 Kentucky

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

7


G O O D

G O O D

S E R V I C E

Local businesses have your best interest at heart

keen now as it was then.” “Providing care is wonderful but speaking to my patients, learning about them and developing relationships with them is what makes me come to work every day.” Visit Dr. BullerSchussler and her staff at www. schusslerdentistry.com, or call 653-0525 to set up your appointment.

A Total Tan

I

Jason Roeder, owner of A Total Tan, has the goal of “providing the best tanning service on the West side. “We’ll stop at nothing until that is done,” he promised. “We have the highest quality tanning service at the lowest price.” A Total Tan, with locations on Delhi Pike, Glenway and Harrison avenues, began its service in February of 2000. All types of tanning levels are available and all packages are all access. You can buy one package and get in any bed they have. Best of all there’s no contracts - setting them a part from the competition. “We strive to provide the cleanest envioronment, friendliest staff, and latest equipment and we never take appointments,” said Roeder. “And we have unbeatable prices. Roeder said that a tanning session is a “short escape” where customers can come in, relax and get away from it all. “Everyone feels better when they have some color, and this is a good place to come for that,” Roeder said. During the month of February to celebrate their anniversary they will be offer $1.50 tanning special

n times of econmic hardship it’s important to support your local businesses. After all, it stimulates your local economy and local businesses just seem to be able to provide the goods and services you need like no other place.

Cedar Village

on all stand-up units, regular beda and regular beds with face tanners. Ultimate beds will be half price. For more information call 336-3162.

Dr. Tiffany Buller-Schussler

Dr. Tiffany Buller-Schussler provides a family-friendly envioronment at her dental practice.

8

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

S E R V I C E

Dr. Timffay Buller-Schussler wants you to feel comfortable when you come into her dental practice for a visit. “You must make a patient feel comfortable and at ease with you and with your treatment or they will never trust you and never relax,” says Buller-Schussler. “We have designed our office to be gentle and inviting, and this is what we want people to take away with them – the feeling of being comfortable while here, like going to a family gathering, or visit-

Kentucky

Kentucky

Cedar Village, a retirement community, located in Mason, has a strong commitment to the sense of family. “We feel there’s a high level of energy and strong sense of commitment to the residents here,” Cedar Village CEO Carol Silver-Elliot said. “Nothing replicates the experience of walking down the hall and having a resident kiss you on the cheek and say, ‘You are my family.’” Cedar Village, in A Total Tan strives to provide the cleanest envioronment, friendlies staff, and latest equipment. addition to living options, offers innovapreviously bad experiences and if I can ing with some friends.” tive services. They have full time pasprovide that patient with a better expeDr. Buller-Schussler and her staff toral care, including both Reform and schedule 80 minutes for new patients rience and make the comfortable Orthodox Rabbis. There’s a large and so they can take their time and get to enough to trust me and come back, active programming department and then I have succeeded and that sense of activities are specifically designed to know them, listen to their concerns success makes me feel very good,” she and try to come up with a plan to meet varying needs. There’s also a sucexplained. help them that is best for them. cessful rehabilitation program with a Dr. Buller-Schussler has known she’s “We don't rush them in and out,” great staff that have seen great outcomes wanted to go into dentistry since she she said. “Personally, I talk to all of for residents. was 9 years old. my patients, explain all procedures “Our mission is to enrich the quality “As a young child I had to have some very thoroughly and just try to make of life and make aging a good experithem feel at ease. I also have nitrous substantial dental treatment performed. ence,” Silver-Elliot said. “Life begins a oxide (laughing gas) available if they As we had very little money, my mother Cedar Village – no matter what age or took me to IU School of Dentistry for are nervous and this helps them life stage, you’re able to grow and learn care by the students and residents there,” here.” relax.” When Dr. Buller-Schussler creates a she explained. “I saw what they were For more information visit doing, watched closely and became good relationship with a fearful www.cedarvillage.com. instantly interested. That is when I patient it makes her feel as though decided that I wanted to be a dentist. I she has “truly” done her job. never waivered and my interest is as “Fearful patients have often had

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

9


A T

H O M E

Granite … thinking outside the rocks I

f you have ever picked up a home improvement magazine and gazed longingly at the striking granite countertops, thinking that they were too far out of your budget to be a reality, don’t be discouraged. Excellence By Nature can put that remarkable finishing jewel in your home, too. “So many people think that granite is out of their reach, even though they dream of incorporating granite in their kitchen or bathroom,” said Sarah Collins, operations manager for Excellence By Nature. “But granite can be a part of your home. Come in and let us show you our designs for your dream project, and keep your budget in line, too,” she said. One of the most excit-

10

C R E A T I V E

After

Before

ing things about Excellence By Nature is that it is the only Northern Kentucky fabricating company that keeps a large selection of full slabs of granite on the premises in their fabricating shop. This allows customers to hand select the granite slabs that will be used for their own project, eliminating the guesswork cre-

L I V I N G

ated at other companies where the customer only has a small square of granite with which to imagine their whole countertop. With many national stores, customers would have to travel distances of up to several hours to view their inventory of stone. Currently, the national trend leans strongly

n k y. c o m

toward granite countertops, due to granite’s durability, cost effectiveness, and its signature feature that every slab is one of a kind, never duplicated. However, Excellence By Nature does offer other choices, such as laminate, Corian, and quartz, so don’t be discouraged if you think granite isn’t the right choice for your home. “In this economy, we see many clients replacing existing laminate countertops with new laminate countertops in a new color or with a different edge treatment,” said Collins. “The new countertops give the kitchen an updated look and feel,” she said. There are even new Formica colors that closely resemble the look and feel of granite, at a lower cost. Although Excellence By Nature’s main focus is on granite countertops, there is also a wide variety of other uses for this beautiful and durable stone. Excellence By Nature’s skilled craftsmen fabricate granite, marble and limestone for smaller

custom projects as well. Granite Lazy Susans are a handy, sparkling addition to any kitchen or dining room table. Clients can hand-select from a wide range of colors and patterns for their own custom-made Lazy Susan. Excellence By Nature also offers one of a kind marble, granite, and limestone for your bathrooms, showers, baking counters, fireplaces and floor decos, as well as wall caps and table tops. You as the customer, come up with a picture or an idea, and we will recreate it from scratch. The possibilities of what can be done with these beautiful natural stones are limited only by your imagination. At Excellence By Nature, customers can count on 40 years of experience with natural stone from our professional designers in the showroom to the installers on your job. “We pride ourselves on customer service from start to finish,” said Julie Schneider, owner of EBN. “We take no detail for granite, not even our rocks.”

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

Kentucky


A T

H O M E

Is Your Home Dying? Call Rooftime A

prominent Huff Realtor called Rooftime last week to request a siding estimate on her newest listing. She wondered if Rooftime could come and investigate why the newly applied paint was peeling on the wood siding of a 100 year old vintage home; why painters were not able to keep any paint adhered to the wood siding for any extended period of time, and how much a new siding job would cost the homeowners. The estimators from Rooftime suspected the true problem, even before they arrived onto the site! Another sick and suffocating home; dying from what roofers call, “the plastic bag� effect. Adults constantly warn children about the dan-

gers of placing their head into a tightly wrapped plastic bag; after all, over 3,300 children are killed every year this way, due to the lack of air flow in and out of their bodies. A house is no different! Homes must be able to breath. Cut off the air flowing in and out of their attics and they suffocate and die, (the plastic bag effect), just like us. Peeling paint is just one of the most easily recognized signs of a sick home! Homeowners often get frustrated with a recurring paint problem and call on a contractor to install an expensive, vinyl siding job. This will only make a bad situation worse! The newly sided home, now really does have a

plastic bag wrapped around its neck, and it will die even faster. New siding, Tyvek wrap and insulation board are not the problem per se, but can mask the fact that major problems still exist but are going on, un-noticed. What little air-flow that may have been occurring through old cracks and crevices, has now been completely sealed off by the installation of new siding. Now you really have an unhealthy home; prone to accelerated mold growth, a build up of interior pollutants, and higher utility bills due to inefficient economies of heating and air conditioning. Is your home sick? Most older homes are! Have you just installed new siding because of

peeling paint, too? Then you may still have problems. Just as a suffocating person can be saved by adding oxygen, so can a dying home be made to recover by adding air flow. Roofing professionals, shingle manufacturers, and DIY-gurus, all stress the importance of proper roof-attic ventilation in relationship to life expectancies of shingle roofs, formation of ice dams and excessive utility consumption. Homes must breathe. How do professional roofers help a home to breathe? By installing a balanced ventilation system at the Soffit (overhang) areas of a home, which allows air to come into a home and flow upward through the attic area.

And, by installing functional outlet vents, at the peak or gable ends of a home, which allows bad air to exit the home, venting excessive heat in the summer and humidity in the winter. The good news for the old home the realtor called about, was that Rooftime installed a new, properly balanced ventilation system, for less than one-third the cost of new vinyl siding, and the home was saved. Have your home professionally inspected and receive a free copy of a DVD or CD-ROM that completely demonstrates the keys to proper roof ventilation by calling on A New Rooftime at 513-753TIME, or in Northern Kentucky at 859-344TIME, or by visiting, www.newrooftime.com.

CreativeLiving Call 578-5501

Kentucky

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

11


A T

H O M E / B R I D A L

New year, new look

Experience all the excitement of engagement

F

C

or many homeowners, the beginning of a new decade is bringing fresh ideas and desires for a new look in their homes and they are turning to Fort Mitchell Interiors to help them bring about an exciting change. A full service interior design store, Fort Mitchell Interiors offers anything and everything you need for your designing project. Kitchen cabinets, appliances, flooring, hardware, paint, wallpaper, upholstery – you name it and this first-class design company will have your bases covered from the beginning of the design project through its completion. Mary Pennington-Wolfe is the owner and head designer of Fort Mitchell Interiors and has been providing excellent interior design service to her customers for 31 years. “We are like a pyramid – we can do everything under one roof; a one stop shop,” said Wolfe. Fort Mitchell Interior is known for its excellent client care and design, giving their clients exactly what they want and matching their taste of design. “The client’s opinion counts and is important. I allow people to keep the things they currently own and we work with what they have and add to it,” said Wolfe. In today’s competitive housing market, it’s a good idea to keep your house fresh and up to date. If you are considering updating a kitchen or bath in your home, Fort Mitchell Interiors carries cabinets, flooring, and appliances and has a team of professional installers to get the job done and keep your home looking its best. “I think it’s a good idea to pick a room every year and give it a new look,” said Wolfe. If you know you are ready for a fresh change in your home but just not sure where to begin, call Fort Mitchell Interiors and a designer can come to your home for a design consultation. Whether your change is as small as bursts of new color on the walls or as large as a whole house re-design, Fort Mitchell Interiors will complete your look from start to finish. You deserve a new look and should enjoy living in your home. With Fort Mitchell Interiors as your designer you only have to go one place to have all of your design needs met. Visit Fort Mitchell Interiors today at 2514 Hazelwood Drive (across from McDonald’s) or call 331-5327 and take advantage of their New Year, New Look sale to jump-start your interior design project.

ongratulations – you’re engaged! This is a special time, leading up to the big day that will change your lives forever. Don’t wait for the nuptials to arrive, however, before you bask in the bliss. Savor every minute of your engagement experience. “Brides may find that making wedding plans can distract them from the simple joy of being engaged,” says Raymond Miller, a wedding planning expert with the Web site My Wedding Reception Ideas.com. “But some advanced planning and creative ideas can help them fully enjoy their engagement while still preparing for the wedding day of their dreams.” Miller offers brides-to-be some simple advice for getting the most enjoyment out of being engaged:

Announcing your big news News of your engagement is one of the most exciting pieces of information you’ll ever share with family and friends. Get creative and fun with your engagement announcement, but don’t overlook practicality. You want to announce your engagement and wedding date in a way that will be quick and easy for you - and memorable to those receiving the message. Save the date magnets can be a great way to get the word out and put your wedding date front-of-mind for those who are invited. Traditional engagement announcements in local newspapers limit your creativity and the reach of your news. Save the date wedding magnets can relay information about your wedding plans across the country to distant loved ones. And because we all have a tendency to hold on to magnets (How many pizza delivery magnets do you have on your refrigerator?) in conspicuous places in our homes, your guests-to-be will see a constant reminder of your special day. My Wedding Reception Ideas.com can help you create customized wedding save the date magnets that reflect your individuality, convey the theme of your wedding and keep your date on the minds of friends and family.

Sharing the celebration

CreativeLiving Call 578-5501

Sure, your maid of honor and other girlfriends will probably throw you a bridal shower. But you don’t have to wait to begin celebrating the good news. You and your fiancé can involve loved ones in the celebrating – and do it at a time you choose – by hosting your own engagement party. Staging your own party allows you to share the excitement sooner. Plus, you can use the occasion as an opportunity to “test drive” wedding day seating arrangements or check out a restaurant you’re considering for the rehearsal dinner. You can also experiment Engagement see page 14

12

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

Kentucky


B R I D A L

Take a dip, try scuba diving for free J

im Barrie wants to share his love for scuba diving, so he’s letting everyone try it for free. His dive shop, The Scuba Shack, located in Florence, is offering a free “Try scuba Experience” to anyone interested in diving. “We want to expose as many people as we can to this wonderful activity,” said Barrie. “Scuba diving is not a sport, it’s not a hobby, it’s a lifestyle,” Barrie said. The Scuba Shack will conduct free one-hour dives every Saturday. Barrie has owned The Scuba Shack for 10 years, and in that time has been told by countless people that they would love to try diving. He knows that

if they do, they’ll love it! So he wants to give them the opportunity. All those wanting to try scuba diving will be fully geared up and go for a dip in The Scuba Shack’s indoor, heated 10foot-deep pool. The dives will be lead by The Shack’s certified instructors. Reservations are required and can be made by calling 283-1550. The Scuba Shack also offers scuba certification training. Through training, divers learn proper technique, safety measures, and how to use equipment. Divers certified at The Scuba Shack are given unlimited training classes at no extra charge.

The Shack also offers unlimited access to equipment and their pool for certification customers. Once certified a diver is ready to go on one of the store’s trips to dive locations in the United States and abroad. In 2010 and 2011 The Shack will lead trips to locations like St. Lucia, Bonaire, Cozumel, Bermuda, Florida, Fiji, and the Bahamas. Pricing varies by destination. Many trips are enjoyable for both divers and non-divers, so the diver can bring a spouse or friend. However, trips specifically for divers are noted. “There’s nothing quite

like a group trip,” said Barrie. “Both divers and non-divers come back with a group of new

friends having seen some of the world’s most beautiful locations” he said.

Top-notch rentals at great prices

A

dvantage Tent and rent. “We have everything Party Rental has much more to cele- you need for your special brate than just the new event,” said operation manager Jim Harney. year. “This year we are offerIn the rental business ing pink tents to our cusfor more than 10 years, tomers. Ten percent of our the company specializes in celebrations of all kinds proceeds from the pink tents will be donated to and has everything you the Susan G. Komen founneed to make your weddation,” he said. ding, graduation, retireWith graduation season ment, birthday, or other around the corner, let special occasions everyAdvantage Tent and Party thing you dreamed it Rental assist you in planwould be. ning your event to honor Advantage provides the special graduate in high quality tents, tables, chairs, lighting, and other your life. For more information décor and accessories on Advantage Tent and with competitive pricing Party Rental and all of the and excellent customer party rentals they offer service. call 581-0390 or visit The company also has www.advantagetenbounce houses and festitrental.com. val booths available for

Kentucky

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

13


H E A L T H

&

F I T N E S S

A small step at Curves can lead to lasting results

I

t comes every January – a commitment to start afresh and turn over a new leaf. But, how successful are you at keeping your resolutions? A recent survey showed that chances of success are up to 50 percent better when you break your resolutions into smaller steps. One small step that women in Northern Kentucky can take is to dedicate 30 minutes, three

times a week to their local Curves. Ladies, that’s just an hour-and-a-half each week. Thirty minutes to get stronger. Thirty minutes to feel better. Thirty minutes to make a difference in your own health. Created specifically for women, Curves offers a complete fitness and nutrition solution. The Curves 30 minute workout exercises every major muscle group and

burns up to 500 calories through a proven program of strength training, cardio and stretching. In addition, club promotions and events encourage women to support charitable causes, learn about health-related issues and forge lasting friendships as part of the global Curves community. Through proven research and the latest technology, Curves has helped millions of women lose millions of pounds. Its exercise program is based on hydraulic equipment where women push and pull at their own strength level. And its weight management program provides the nutrition component based on proven methods and proven results. Plus, monthly weight management classes are free to members and non-members.

Keep your commitment to live healthy with the help of Curves.

What small step will you take in 2010 to be healthy? Curves, whose theme in 2010 is “Stronger Together,” can help and

will make you able to take bigger steps. Call 1-800CURVES30, visit curveskentucky.com, or call a Curves near you to get started today.

Engagement from page 12 with linens and décor; using colors you’re considering for your wedding will give you an idea of what these decorator items will look like in an elegant setting. Or, use the engagement party as way to preview your wedding theme for example, host the party at a seaside location for a beach-themed wedding. And don’t forget to celebrate as a couple, as well. If planning starts to feel too stressful, consider taking a pre-honeymoon trip that will help you decompress and reconnect as a couple. Time away together will help remind you what all your wedding planning is really about - your love for each other. The break could be as simple as a weekly date night or as elaborate as a weekend getaway.

14

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

Be resourceful The Internet has made wedding planning easier than ever. Use online resources, like sites that allow you to experiment with seating charts for receptions, compare color schemes and create sample menus. My Wedding Reception Ideas.com can help you pick and plan personalized wedding favors, accessories and gifts for your wedding party. The site also provides tips on different kinds of napkins and how to choose them, and other useful planning hints. Visit www.myweddingreceptionideas.com to learn more. “Planning a wedding should be part of the enjoyable experience of being engaged,” Miller says. “With creativity and some expert help, it’s possible to make the months of your engagement as memorable and special as the wedding day itself.” Courtesy of ARAcontent

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

Kentucky


H E A L T H

How to make your New Year's resolution last

ple: potatoes, canola oil and salt. What’s even better is that they don’t add chemicals to reduce the fat content - they simply flash-bake the freshly-cut potatoes. When those hunger pangs come around, take a no-nonsense approach with yourself. Limit your intake by putting what you’re eating

&

F I T N E S S

in a small bowl, which automatically helps you stop eating, or look at the nutritional label and stick to the serving size listed on the product. And eat slowly – you’ll feel full on a smaller amount of food if you don’t rush it. If you’ve got a sweet tooth, Resolution see page 16

F

ailed New Year’s resolutions are a dime a dozen. That promise to go to the gym every day dwindles to three days a week, then two days a week, before falling into “whenever I can make it” territory. Diet and weight loss resolutions are among the most common, year after year, which says a lot about what kind of results people are getting from the promises they make to themselves. The problem with so many resolutions is that they’re simply too strenuous, too unforgiving and just plain unrealistic. We don’t become superhuman masters of willpower with the turning of the year, nor do our busy schedules change. The best, most effective resolutions, especially for weight loss, are the ones that fit in with the lives we’re already living. Resolutions for weight loss and those for eating better can easily go hand in hand. One key to a positive, effective plan for carrying out these resolutions is to not view food as the enemy – or, at least, not all food. As a first step, start taking a good, hard look at the ingredient list on foods that you buy. You should also be honest with yourself about your eating habits. If you’re a habitual snacker in the mid-afternoon, own up to it. Next, armed with that knowledge, shop smart and stock better-for-you options for your snacks. Many people starting out on new eating regimens buy products that sound “healthy,” but don’t satisfy cravings and can lead to too much snacking. Look for products that you know you like, but find versions that incorporate natural ingredients or offer lower fat options. For example, if you crave potato chips, Cape Cod Potato Chips are a good option. The ingredient list on their 40 percent reduced fat kettle-cooked chips is refreshingly sim-

Kentucky

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

n k y. c o m

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

15


H E A L T H

&

F I T N E S S

Canine health and fitness resolutions I

f your dog could make his own New Year’s resolution, he may have also resolved to become healthier and more active in 2010. Like us, your canine companion needs motivation and a plan to live better. Your dog’s life span is much less than your own so it is imperative that you give him the proper tools to live well-don’t wait, start your pet’s plan of healthier living today! Here are a few steps that you can implement to help Fido be healthy: Institute a regular exercise plan. Although your dog may go out into the backyard – is he really achieving exercise? A few brief bursts of running and barking probably do not constitute a regular workout. Rather, you can organize regular

workout sessions which allow your dog to become fit and toned. Examples of appropriate exercise for your dog may be taking a walk at least three times each week. The walk should last a minimum of 30 minutes and you should be traveling at a brisk paceno stopping and smelling the roses. Please keep in mind that the exercise you provide for you dog should be age and size appropriate depending on your dog’s particular breed. A few more exercise routines could consist of regular sessions of ball play again lasting approximately 30 minutes and allowing your dog to maintain a high level of workout during the play session. If your neighborhood

or weather does not permit outside activity, you may re-purpose your own exercise equipment. Most dogs can easily learn to use a treadmill with supervision to achieve regular workouts. Don’t forget the all important but often overlooked stretching exercises. Like all athletes, your dog can benefit from stretching and a massage either before or after their workouts. Make that belly rub count! No healthy living plan is complete without the addition of a balanced healthy diet.

For your dog, this includes feeding a good quality balanced dog food-preferably a dry kib-

As you institute an exercise program for Fido, you may just experience some benefits yourself!

As the New Year begins, make a commitment to help your dog live a happy, long, healthy life. ble and having access to clean water particularly after exercise. Although it makes you feel good to share your own food with Fido, it’s not a healthy choice for him. As the New Year begins, make a commitment to help your dog live a happy, long, healthy life.

If you would like help getting started on the path to wellness for your dog, please call the experts at Canine Companion Training and Boarding Center in Walton at 859356-6457. Training can help you enjoy your walks, encourage healthy behaviors, and get you started off right in 2010!

Resolution from page 15 skip the candy bars and find some dark chocolate that you can break off in small pieces. Let one piece melt on your tongue and you’ll cut the craving with a minimal intake of calories. If you’re not a snacker, you can still apply those ideas to your main meals. Be sure to choose main dishes that are made with natural ingredients and give yourself some flavor varieties. Add in Cape Cod Potato Chips as a side (they’re available in nearly 10 different varieties to compliment whatever you’re serving), and treat yourself to a dark chocolate square for

16

C R E A T I V E

L I V I N G

n k y. c o m

dessert. To make yourself eat more slowly - and pay attention to what and how much you’re eating turn off the TV, step away from the computer and have a sit-down meal with the family or a friend. If you add in simple exercise, like going for walks on your work breaks, you’ll be taking an extra step toward a healthier lifestyle, without having to turn your world upside down. With those simple adjustments, this can be the year that your resolution finally lasts through the whole year.

Thursday Jan. 21, 2010

Courtesy of ARAcontent

Kentucky


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.