Edmonton Woman 2014 March

Edmonton

woman March/April 2014

MAGAZINE

DEANNA DOW:

The first person (and woman!) to receive a Certificate in International Business from the U of A

5 Local Lunch Hot Spots The Perfect Spring Outfit for Under $50

Buying Your First Home: What's the TRUE cost?

w w w . e d m o n t o n w o m a n . c o m Finance & Business | Fashion & Beauty | Homes & Interiors | Travel & Entertainment | Food & Drink | Healthy Living | Green Living

8 WARNING SIGNS

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Edmonton woman

March /April 2014

It’s Not Just Furniture.

It’s Personal.

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COVER STORY

Reaching for the Big Apple Edmonton woman first to receive Certificate in International Learning from U of A Small Changes Can Have Big Impacts Local women share their experiences with change Buying Your First Home What is the true cost?

Immigrant Women Organization in Need of Funding Important programs in jeopardy Make it Pop with Purple A beauty spread filled with items in this year's hottest colour Smart and Stylish Great spring finds at a steal of a price!

5 Local Lunch Hot Spots Big on flavour and easy on the pocketbook Ask the Expert Michelle Emmerling, PhD in Psychology, answers your questions!

Sections

18 Fashion Edmonton Woman Magazine Published By: Alberta Business Research Ltd. 340 Carleton Drive, St. Albert, AB T8N 7L3 Tel: 780-470-5602 Fax: 780-460-8220

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Edmonton woman

22 Food & Drink Publisher: Fisal Asiff Editor: Danielle Higdon dhigdon@abr.greatwest.ca Graphic Designers: Noreen Hansen Kary Bowen Danielle Higdon

Contributing Writers: Danielle Higdon Amanda Van Slyke Michelle Emmerling Ashley Rempel Cheryl Cottrell-Smith Tracey L. Anderson

24 Healthy Living Advertising Consultant: Judie Matthys jmatthys@abr.greatwest.ca

No part of this publication may be copied or reproduced without the written permission of the publisher.

March /April 2014

Editor’s C

Note

hange isn’t an easy thing, for anyone. But at some point, we are all faced with it. For myself, change seems to have been the only constant in my life over the past two years. In 2011, I packed up my car, uprooted my entire life, and set off to Edmonton in hopes of finding more career opportunities and a foot in the door. Within two weeks of making the decision to move, I was in a brand new city, with few connections, and a, for lack of a better word, “makeshift” plan about how it would all work out in my favour. I expected it to be difficult, what I didn’t expect was that the changes were just beginning. Following my move, I began a new job, bought my first home, and opened up my heart for the first time in years. The emotions I felt were similar to those one feels after strapping themselves into a rollercoaster and realizing half way down the first plummet that maybe things weren’t so bad watching from the sidelines, where your feet could remain firmly planted in one place.

But that’s the funny thing about rollercoaster rides. While you’re on them, you spend the entire time questioning your own sanity, yet when they end, and you’re back on solid ground, you can’t deny the sense of pride you feel for having done it, and it’s even more impossible to resist the urge to tell everyone you know to try it, even though ten minutes ago you were regretting having let someone convince you.

This is where I’ve found myself lately - encouraging others in my life to take the ride, even if they don’t go on the biggest, fastest, scariest rollercoaster. Sometimes a slowand-steady Ferris Wheel ride can provide you with a new perspective.

When we set out to make change in our life, we often think of major life alterations – a new home, a new job, relocating to a new city. We see change as something that is monumental, and instantly noticeable (à la my style). But the women inside this edition of Edmonton Woman Magazine are proof that sometimes change takes time, and starts as a small step, rather than a giant leap. Whether it’s cover girl Deanna Dow, who applied herself every day for four years to obtain her business degree, or Ashanti Marshall, who found that a simple modification to her diet had a huge impact on her self-confidence and energy, these women bring life to the idea that change doesn’t have to be immediate or enormous to be effective. And even more importantly, they show us that every step, no matter what the size, counts – as long as it’s in the right direction.

It is better to take many small steps in the right direction than to make a great leap forward only to stumble backward. - Proverb.

Danielle Higdon

Editor

March /April 2014

Edmonton woman |

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Reaching for the Big Apple Local woman is first person to obtain International Business Certificate from the U of A

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hen Deanna Dow’s mother was growing up, she dreamed of attending University. She even applied to school, and was accepted. However, due to uncontrollable circumstances, her dreams never quite came to fruition.

“Due to her culture, her father wouldn’t let her go,” Deanna explains. “She was enrolled and her student loans were ready and everything.”

Instead, Deanna’s mother married and began her family. However, her focus on education never changed. Deanna says her mother was adamant that her children continue their education.

“She always said to us that if we were going to do anything in life, we had to go to school,” Deanna explains. “We always thought it was funny that she would keep mentioning it, but to her it was such a big deal.”

Today, Deanna is the first person (and woman) to obtain a Certificate in International Learning from the University of Alberta, and has completed her business degree, all at the young age of 22. And for all of her accomplishments, she accredits her mother as her greatest inspiration.

Continued on Page 7 6 |

Edmonton woman

“I put having fun on the side for this.

When I wasn’t in school or working, it was extra curricular activities.

It’s important to be well-rounded and that was a sacrifice, but it paid off.”

Deanna Dow

March /April 2014

From Page 6 “My mother and I are very alike,” she says. “I feel like I get my drive and determination from her.”

Deanna says her mother’s influence not only impacted her decision to go to University, but also her decision to focus on international business.

“When I was 16, my mom took me to New York and I was in awe. I think that really inspired me to be in the business world, just seeing downtown and envisioning myself there. There were so many women in suits and it was so busy. Even today, I am consciously making an effort to work my way there.”

And now that she is on her way, her mother is behind her, cheering her on as her biggest fan.

“Even for this photo-shoot, she was there,” Deanna says. “She would keep fixing my hair and smiling. She wanted everything to be perfect.”

Today, Deanna is a Corporate Liaison for CALDO, and works to enable students and researchers from Latin America to gain privileged access to programs and research facilities here in Canada. The job is one she was able to obtain due to her certification, and is a perfect fit for an aspiring international business mogul.

“I’m extremely grateful for the certificate because it got me the job I have today. It’s opened a lot of opportunities for me,” she says.

Following her dreams, Deanna will soon be relocating to Ottawa for the position, and considers it one step closer to her dream of being based in New York City.

“It’s a little nerve-wrecking, just because I’ve lived here my whole life, with the exception of studying abroad, but it’s such an amazing next step,” she admits.

Deanna Dow poses with her mother, Bridgette Dow, who she credits as her greatest inspiration.

And with so much hard work put into her achievements, Deanna says it only made sense to dive in headfirst.

for granted on a daily basis, basic things like peace and security are considered a right here. But there, it’s a privilege.”

“I put having fun on the side for this,” she says. “When I wasn’t in school or working, it was extra curricular activities. It’s important to be well-rounded and that was a sacrifice, but it paid off.”

Through all of her learning experiences, Deanna says her passion for business remains as fiery as ever. And she is proud to have obtained her education here in Edmonton.

Along with completing her program in four years and making the Dean’s List, Deanna was also Vice President of Academics for the Business Student Association, a student representative for the Business Council, and a Cohort Captain, among many other designations.

“Edmonton is an underestimated city. There’s so much potential here for business, potential that isn’t being fully seized just yet. I think Edmonton has the potential to be a business hub for Alberta.

You hear so much about Calgary, and the kind of riff between the two cities, but I think there is potential here that can be met without detracting from anywhere else.”

She also spent a year abroad studying at the University of Edinburgh in the UK, as well as time spent in Israel while enrolled in an Intensive Arabic Language Program. An experience she says she will never forget.

“I really gained a new understanding of the issues and politics happening in the Middle East,” she says. “It was fascinating to see how differently people lived in comparison to the western world.”

She says the trip also taught her things she couldn’t have learned from a textbook.

“The feeling of loss of security that I felt, that was an eye-opener,” she explains. “It made me realize just how much North Americans take March /April 2014

Certain she will never forget her roots, Deanna says at the end of the day, her hopes for the future come down to one simple thing.

“I want to make a change. That’s the most important thing. I want to change how international business is done and impact it in a positive way.”

And as for the idea that the business world is a man’s world? Deanna shrugs it off without a second thought.

“I do not believe for a second that a man can do a job better simply because he is male. I think women bring so much passion and work ethic to the table too, and I believe in that equality.”

Edmonton woman |

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Small Changes Can Have

Big Impacts

by Tracey L. Anderson hen I make changes in my life, they tend to be big and allor-nothing. As a single woman in my twenties, I moved to China in 1994 for a teaching job. When I got married in 2000, I moved to Abu Dhabi five days after the wedding to follow my husband when he took a job. In 2010, I quit my career and went back to school to get a professional writing degree. Those large changes were scary and stressful because they changed my entire life in one big swoop.

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Early last year, I met one-on-one with Omar Mouallem and Jennifer Cockrall-King, the writers who gave the workshops, for more personalized, in-depth advice on why and how to use Twitter professionally. They convinced me to at least try it, so last March I started a Twitter account.

But change doesn’t always have to be sweeping to create big impacts.

Sometimes you can reap rewards from even tiny tweaks to your daily routine, your health habits, your relationships—or any other aspect of your life. I’ve made those kinds of changes too and have been surprised by how much good can come from them.

Now I admit that I don’t have thousands of followers, but from the ones I do have and the people I follow, some great relationships and opportunities have come my way. I’ve learned interesting new things from others, such as easy two-minute stress relievers. I’ve made great personal connections—new and old, including a childhood friend I hadn’t seen in decades. I’ve made important professional connections, including interesting editors and writers in our city.

Most exciting of all, I got my first magazine article published (in this magazine) because I replied to a Tweet seeking a travel article after

As an “emerging writer” (whatever that means, really), I know that one of the keys to success is “networking,” but I wasn’t sure how to build my brand or my publications list. To find my way, I attended two workshops where the presenters advocated Twitter as a critical branding and networking tool for writers. At first, I was hesitant.

“What would I write? Who would want to read it?” I wondered. But I was also curious. So I did what any inquisitive writer should… I investigated further.

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Edmonton woman

I’d just returned from a holiday in Europe (All of this for only a few minutes each day. OK, sometimes more than a few).

And I’m not the only one who has earned big returns from small investments in change. Some other Edmonton women shared their experiences with getting a big bang for the buck by making little life adjustments.

Continued on Page 9 March /April 2014

Many women mentioned health-based changes. For example, Ashley R. switched to a mostly vegan diet. “No red meat was by choice and a year and a half ago I found out I was allergic to eggs and cow’s milk.” Her new eating habits brought her multiple positive health improvements such as “stronger nails, healthier looking skin, better digestion and [I’m] not sick as much.”

Tobi C. made exercise changes. “I wasn’t working out regularly and know that I am most successful when I have a set day to work out.”

That prompted her to re-join a dance class she’d taken previously.

Now she goes to class three times per week. “It was great for stress release plus I have felt my body getting stronger the longer I participate. It is held indoors, so no matter what the weather is I can still get in a great workout.” As an added bonus, the class has brought new relationships into Tobi’s life. “The wonderful ladies… were icing on the cake for me.”

Another woman who made a small change in exercise with big results was Rayanne D., who committed herself to yoga every Monday morning. That change “helped me focus, has increased my energy and strengthened my writing [because it] helps keep my creative juices flowing and cuts down writer’s block.” Why Monday mornings? “Monday was the best day to start with positive choices [and it] keeps the rest of the week positive.”

Erin M. explains that her change was professional. “Becoming a student optician… has greatly impacted my life in a very positive way. Helping patients with their optical needs is challenging and rewarding. I love feeling like I can help make a positive difference in another individual’s life.”

Sherry L.’s change combined the physical with the professional. For several years, she’d been working in an office, but over time she realized that a regular 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. schedule wasn’t conducive to her productivity.

Sherry eventually left the confines of the office and now runs her own business from home full time. These days, she follows a schedule of working, sleeping and eating that’s based on “doing things according to my schedule and habits.” The key to making it work is “knowing when you’re productive and when you need quiet time” and arranging specific tasks around those times.

Not all changes need to be physical. About a year ago, Shannon L. says that she was feeling “incredibly overwhelmed” with juggling multiple aspects of her life—dating, her studies, finding a job, staying in shape. To cope, she decided “to take a step back [and] to focus on one area at a time.”

She started by concentrating on her studies and not worrying about the other things. By doing that, she was able to succeed in school, which later helped her find a great job. Shannon says that when she changed her perspective, “it was like a weight lifted off my shoulders.”

Now that she’s entering a new phase in her life this year, she’ll take another step back and re-focus.

The thought of change can make most of us cringe. The unknown can be scary, and change—even positive change—can cause stress.

But even when the end goal is large, little steps rather than giant leaps are often the way to reach your destination. So make one small change in your life and see what benefits come of it.

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Buying your first home: what’s the true cost?

A home can be one of the largest purchases you will make in your lifetime. It is a decision that comes with a lot of responsibility.

by Jillian Carr remember buying my first home in Calgary at age 21. I knew nothing about buying a home – I just knew it made sense to do it. I had just finished university and felt ready to conquer the world. With the help of my dad and his financial mindset, I made the decision and found financing that worked for me. My realtor helped me to negotiate a great price and made the paperwork seamless.

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Still, there were things I wish I knew then that I know now. The biggest lesson was that there is more to owning a house then just living in it, and I hope reading this will help you make the right decisions. As a financial security advisor, I know a client’s lifestyle can be the biggest challenge to helping them achieve financial security – and their biggest weakness. A prosperous economy like Alberta’s can provide very large incomes, which can result in lenders offering consumers more and more debt, including mortgage debt. But you don’t have to get drawn in. Just because the lender says you have been approved for $500,000 does not mean you need to buy a $500,000 house.

This thinking can lead some people to a “keeping up with the Joneses” as a way to show off their success. The higher their income, the more some people want to spend on luxuries such as oversized houses.

Imagine your savings and net-worth if March /April 2014

this money went towards building your retirement plan instead of paying down debt.

When purchasing your home think about the following: • Do you have a down payment? If so, where is the money coming from? A gift?

Your savings? Or were you advised to use the Home Buyers Plan? Is the Home Buyers Plan the right decision for you?

• What is the mortgage interest rate offered?

• What will the monthly payment be?

• If you went through a temporary job loss, do you have enough savings to cover your mortgage, bills and debt payments?

• Consider a mortgage equal to 2 to 2.5 years’ income. Your first home does not need to be a new home with all the bells and whistles. Maybe a “fixer-upper” makes more sense for you. Put some “sweat equity” into it. Give yourself the ability to own a home and still live life.

• Consult with professionals. Realtors, financial security advisors and mortgage planning specialists understand the marketplace and can help you make a decision that helps ensure that you are not house poor. They are important coaches to have in your corner.

Buying a home can be an exhilarating feeling.

It can provide you with a sense of freedom and choice. Just remember to take a step a back and ask yourself, “Can I afford it”? Good luck house-hunting!

“

Someone’s sitting in the shade today because someone planted a tree a long time ago.

Warren Buffett

”

Contact me today for help planting your “financial” tree.

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Financial Security Advisor

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Edmonton woman |

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Immigrant Women Organization in Need of Funding

by Amanda Van Slyke dmonton is many things – a majorly winter city, a goldmine for trade jobs and a melting pot of people looking for better opportunities. Many of these people are immigrant women who may not be as well versed in English as they’d like or are uncomfortable getting to know potential friends in a strange, new place.

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skills program with an English component, as well as the Volunteer Support Program, a short or long-term program that helps participants acquire new skills that will lead to securing employment.

To better help immigrant women in Edmonton thrive in their new city, Changing Together also offers English as a Second Language classes as well as services such as workshops on bi-cultural parenting and prevention of family violence.

Changing Together is the only organization in Alberta that solely focuses on helping immigrant women, as well as the only organization in Edmonton that helps immigrant women integrate and participate in Canadian society. However, because of government cuts, many important programs are being jeopardized.

“These women have the most difficulty integrating into mainstream society because they tend to isolate themselves at home caring for their family so their children and husbands can succeed in their new homeland,” says Bitar. “This personal sacrifice can lead them to suffer depression and abuse from family members.”

Sonia Bitar, who is the Chair of the Fundraising Committee and was also the Executive Director from 1994 to 2005, has seen the organization grow, and lately, shrink, due to the cutbacks.

Changing Together is the only organization in Alberta that solely focuses on helping immigrant women.

“The board and staff with the dedicated volunteers are hoping that as a well-known entrepreneur and philanthropist interested [organization] in safeguarding the health and future our Edmonton community would consider extending a helping hand providing the centre with much needed financial resources to continue the critical work which makes Edmonton a safer, more welcoming city for immigrant women and their families,” says Bitar.

Since 1984, Changing Together has been helping immigrant women in Edmonton overcome personal and systemic barriers that keep them from feeling like they belong in our city. During its thirty years of operation, it has helped more than sixty-seven thousand immigrant women from ages twenty to eighty with programs such as the Making Changes Program, a two week pre-employment, life 12 |

Edmonton woman

Changing Together’s services are highly valued by clients and non-profit partners, as well as Edmonton’s police, legal and health care communities that frequently request their assistance when immigrant women encounter life-altering changes. Bitar states that with immigration on the rise in this province, there is so much more to do and that the cutbacks are hindering the organization’s progress.

She elaborates that the centre is under new management and that 100 percent of any donated funds will go towards providing services to immigrant women and their families. Cheques can be made out to Changing Together, a Centre for Immigrant Women: 202, 10010 105 street Edmonton, AB T5J 1C4. Charitable Registration No. 106907132-RR0001. An official tax receipt will be mailed and your personal information will only be used for administrative purposes.

For more information or to contact Changing Together please visit www.changingtogether.com.

March /April 2014

Travel & Entertainment

Former Edmonton Woman Cover Girl supports Amanda Todd Legacy Fund E

SMA has teamed up with The Amanda Todd Legacy Fund and created a song and video based on Anti-bullying, specifically Cyber-bullying. Amanda Todd is the BC teen who's YouTube video about her bullying struggles went viral receiving millions of hits after committing suicide.

Carol Todd, Amanda Todd's mother, reached out to ESMA when she heard that her daughter's story inspired ESMA to use her music as a message against bullying. Proceeds of the sales of the single on iTunes will go to the Amanda Todd Legacy Fund. Proceeds from this Indiegogo will also be donated to The Amanda Todd Legacy Fund as follows: 20% of all proceeds will be donated to Amanda Todd Legacy Fund and if the $10000 goal is reached 50% will be donated. As an independent artist support to help fund the Marketing of the single and music video "Fall Back" is much needed.

radio promotion last year and recently graced the front page of the Edmonton Journal. ESMA has performed internationally and opened for artists such as Jadakiss, Jay Sean, LMFAO party rock crew, Danny Fernandes, JRDN, Kos and Dirty Radio.

"Fall Back" has already began to receive radio support. To create the single ESMA collaborated with international producer Fingazz, who has worked with artists such as Snoop Dogg and Karl Wolf. She is also Edmonton's very own Hot 107 Hot Factor winner, receiving 10K and

"The true reason I am an artist is to inspire so it only makes sense to team up with organizations that inspire me. I also feel like having an inspirational message as a female pop artist is really needed in the music scene right now." To Donate go to: esmarhythm.com/igg

ESMA works with artist development company A&R Worldwide who have helped build the careers of Avril Lavigne and Adele to name a few. She has also trained with Ron Anderson, who has coached the voices of Alicia Keys, Adele, Janet Jackson and Usher to name a few.

gallery @ 501 Presents

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www.strathcona.ca/artgallery March /April 2014

Edmonton woman |

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Fashion & Beauty

Make it Pop with Purple!

Phoenix Rising Bath Bomb ($6.95)

NARS Duo Eyeshadow in the colour "Marie-Galante" $39.00

A mini mirrored compact featuring two crease-proof NARS eye shadows in modern, complementary shades. This long-wearing, crease-resistant formula is uniquely paired in dazzling and creative color combinations, expertly coordinated by François Nars.

Nars Opaque Nail Polish in Fury ($19.00) Fashion-forward and classic NARS Nail Polish shades impart incredible luster and prolonged gloss retention with UV protection to prevent polish discoloration.

An advanced polymer system provides extended wear and a durable, chip-resistant finish.

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Edmonton woman

Royal purple and gold-dusted, with a cinnamon stick in the center, this gorgeous bomb sinks to the bottom of the tub when you toss it in, and slowly rises up, fizzing out a spicy apple and cinnamon scent.

Nicole by OPI Nail Polish in “Aren’t Families Grape” ($7.00) OPI formulas are long-lasting, fastdrying, and salon-quality. Featuring a range of shades from dark blue and cool mint to bright sorbet hues, as well as metallic shimmers and creamy nudes. These highlypigmented lacquers offer nail fans a unique, varied colour palette ideal for coordinating with the latest fashion trends.

March /April 2014

Fashion & Beauty

BaByliss AC2100 Salon Light Hair Dryer($109.99) Flaunt high-shine, frizz-free hair thanks to the Babyliss AC2100 Salon Light hairdryer.

Covered in a luxurious purple finish, the BaByliss Salon Light boasts ionic technology to banish frizz, and with a 3m salon length cable you can style in front of the mirror with ease. An ultra-slim concentrator nozzle allows precision styling.

LUSH Fresh Handmade Cosmetics

Emotional Brilliance Liquid Lipstick in Drive ($18.95) Apply Drive, a pink-purple liquid lipstick to get things moving. With its hydrating base of jojoba oil and rose wax, Drive applies beautifully and ensures lips stay soft and smooth. Apply a little for a subtle pink-purple look, or build intensity when you apply more generously.

EstĂŠe Lauder Pure Color High Intensity Lip Lacquer ($26.00) The liquid light of lacquer. The fullimpact of lipstick. Richly pigmented lip lacquer creates luscious, wet, brilliant colour. This product provides the full coverage of lipstick with the ultra shine of lacquer and leaves lips feeling hydrated and comfortable.

March /April 2014

Edmonton woman |

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Fashion & Beauty

& Stylish:

Smart

Great spring finds at a steal of a price

By Cheryl Cottrell-Smith n Edmonton spring is a fabulous thing: it comes late and unexpectedly, pouncing upon unsuspecting residents with its long, sunny days, lush greenery, and beautifully freeing spring showers.

convert over to your summer wardrobe in one fell swoop.

It’s the start of something special; namely, Edmonton’s gorgeous summer season.

Spring in Edmonton is fairly predictable. It can still get fairly chilly, so you can’t quite

The sun is shining. The snow is melting. You want to be able to show off your unique style without having to hide under a puffy parka and woolly winter hat.

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A good jacket is a smart thing to keep on hand, along with a few brightly-coloured scarves to help protect against the chill. At the same time, though, the weather is nice.

Spring time is a perfect chance to start picking up pieces that transition well into the summer, saving you time and money when summer finally does roll around.

Dresses, skirts, and shorts can be worn with tights and leggings of varying thickness. Cute tank tops and sleeveless shirts can be paired with a casual leather jacket or a sophisticated blazer. Once the snow melts, shoes of all shapes and sizes can hit the streets. Too slushy? Ankle booties will get you there.

Shop smart and that spring wardrobe will be furnished before you know it. We took to the streets to see what kinds of spring clothes we could find on a budget and we came up with a versatile collection of pieces that are perfect for spring’s warmer weather. The best part? One full outfit cost less than $40 to put together – bargain!

When shopping on a budget, it’s easy to think that larger, national chain stores are the only places to find things for a reasonable price. While they may have great items, there are also a number of local stores that are worth checking out for beautiful, unique accessories that won’t cost a fortune.

For Michelle’s outfits, we bought the dresses from Forever 21, the shoes from Ardene, and the vintage necklace from The Junque Cellar on Whyte Avenue. The Old Strathcona Antique Mall is also a great place to find vintage necklaces and rings, while a number of local clothing stores on Whyte are regularly holding amazing sales and offering high quality items at hugely discounted prices.

Lace dresses: Shoes: Vintage necklace: Other jewellery and tights:

Forever 21, $12.80 Ardene, 2 for $15 The Junque Cellar, $12 Model’s own

Model: Michelle Emi Smith Photographer: Kristy L Photography kristylphotography.com

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Edmonton woman

And, as always, buy what makes you feel good. Purchase items that you feel comfortable in and that showcase your personality. The best part about spring styles is their versatility; there are so many more combinations to play with when you aren’t worrying about extreme weather conditions.

Happy spring shopping!

March /April 2014

Fashion & Beauty

Elizabeth’s

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11410 Kingsway Ave., Edm.

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Edmonton Woman Magazine

In print and online!

www.edmontonwoman.com March /April 2014

Edmonton woman |

19

Homes & Interiors

Congratulations

to our Edmonton & Area Women Olympic 2014 Champions & Participants TEAM CANADA

Shannon Szabados Hometown: Edmonton Sport: Hockey Finished: Gold Meaghan Mikkelson Hometown: St. Albert Sport: Hockey Finished: Gold Kaetlyn Osmond Hometown: Sherwood Park Sport: figure skating Finished: Silver in team skate, 13th in Woman's Individual Zina Kocher Hometown: Red Deer Sport: Biathlon Finished: 8th in biathlon women’s relay

Kaetlyn Osmond

Jenny Ciochetti Hometown: Edmonton Sport: bobsleigh Finished: 13th in 2-man bobsleigh Amanda Ammar Hometown: Onoway (born in St. Albert.)

Sport: cross-country skiing Finished: 55th in 10 km Classic, 55th in skiathlon, 49th in 33 km Mass Start Keltie Hansen Hometown: Edmonton Sport: freestyle skiing Jessica Gregg Hometown: Edmonton Sport: short-track speed skating (Sub)

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Edmonton woman

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Wall colour disasters happen

W

Homes & Interiors

to even the most seasoned interior decorator

all colour disasters happen to even the most seasoned interior decorator. Paint chips can be deceptive, and once on the wall, a dream colour can quickly turn into a home improvement nightmare. Luckily, the wrong wall colour does not have to be a lasting problem. The following are fixes for wall colour disasters: Give colour a chance In the event the room has been completely painted, it may be tempting to run straight back to the paint store and start again, but a trial run of the new colour may be in order. Often, a negative reaction to a new paint colour is not dislike so much as shock, particularly if the change is dramatic. By replacing the switch and outlet covers, rehanging art, and returning the room to a functional state, the painter can get a better sense of whether the colour works or doesn’t work in the environment.

Once the shock of the change subsides, the painter may just come to view his or her colour disaster as a decorating happily ever after.

Try a Faux Finish Another fix for the less-than-fabulous painted room is a faux finish. By treating the undesired paint colour as a base, the painter can use paint or glaze to change the overall style of the walls.

Any number of looks can be accomplished with faux finishes. For example, with paint and stencils, painted walls can be given the look of wallpaper, or layering glaze over the base colour with sponges can create an Old World look. A paint technique using a comb and brush can give walls the rich look of linen. A perusal of the faux finish section of a craft or home improvement store can offer inspiration, or websites like HGTV and DIY offer ideas and detailed how-to videos.

Modify the Paint Colour If the painter realizes a paint colour is wrong early in a project, there may still be time to correct the problem. Unfortunately, unless an error was made in the mixing process, most hardware and home improvement stores do not accept custom paint returns; however, many paint stores are willing to alter the colour to a more pleasing hue. While magenta cannot be made over into ivory, slight changes can be made to the existing paint, which may be just enough to make the colour spot-on.

Often, the store will make these adjustments at no additional charge.

Start Again The last resort resolution in a wall colour disaster is to go back to the drawing board. Now that a paint mistake has been made, it should be used as an opportunity to see where changes need to be made. Was the colour too light? Too dark? Too red? The new paint colour should go right where the disaster paint colour went wrong. Painters needing a little guidance in selecting a new colour can follow expert tips like the ones found here.

Before investing in a gallon or more of the new paint, a sample should be applied to the wall. By observing the test area of the wall at different points of the day as the light changes, the painter can determine whether or not the colour will work. Ideally, multiple tests conducted side-by-side to allow for comparison.

Getting a wall colour wrong can be discouraging, but the crisis is only temporary. With a little patience and creativity, a wall colour disaster can be turned into a decorating success.

March /April 2014

Edmonton woman |

21

5 Food & Drink

Local Lunch

hot Cavern spots

10169 104 Street (780) 455-1336 • thecavern.ca

big on flavour and easy on your pocketbook

by Cheryl Cottrell-Smith ining out is all about the experience, but it shouldn’t always be about spending exorbitant amounts of money on a fleeting meal. We’re lucky enough to have access to Edmonton’s diverse dining scene, which means that you don’t have to break the bank to have a fabulous meal at any time of the day.

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For those ladies who like to lunch, there are a number of restaurants that serve up a delicious, reasonably-priced meal with a side of ambience, proving that you don’t need to be a millionaire (or an Oiler) to enjoy a quality dining experience in our city.

Edmonton’s downtown and Strathcona neighbourhoods are relatively easy to get to from all areas of the city and offer the most variety in terms of hot lunch spots for daytime diners. The following are a selection of restaurants that have a great lunch menu at a low cost, along with our preferred recommendations for each.

Located in the midst of downtown’s trendy 104 street area, Cavern is a retail cheese store and café that offers high quality nibbles at a reasonable price. Diners can indulge in fresh bread, world-class cheeses, quality espresso, and lovely cured meats.

Cavern’s Charcuterie for One is a great lunch option, offering up your choice of meat and cheese with a selection of delightful accompaniments. It’s a small location with a lot of heart and character – perfect for a relaxing lunch with a novel or a glass of wine with a close friend.

We recommend: UK-inspired Brunch, $11 – fresh baguette, Cavern-selected clothbound cheddar, fresh fruit, and jam or chutney.

Eat, drink, and be merry. You deserve that break from work, so why not enjoy it guilt-free?

10922 88 Avenue (780) 433-8369 • thesugarbowl.org

It’s All Greek to Me

Everyone that’s ever eaten at this restaurant will attest to the fact that you can’t go wrong with the Sugarbowl. Their dishes range between $12 and $20 for lunch and include items such as applewood smoked cheddar mac ‘n cheese, mussels and frites, and red coconut curry laksa. The Sugarbowl is best for those who like a rowdier atmosphere, excellent comfort food, and a staggering beer selection. If you’re lucky, they might even have some of their famous cinnamon buns left. Snap one up, post haste.

This Mediterranean gem has been around for over a decade and, after trying their fare, it’s easy to see why. Break up your work day with some traditional Greek delicacies, which include spanakopita, moussaka, and soutzoukakia. The restaurant interior is traditional, with a family-run ambience that exudes relaxation, friendliness, and hospitality.

Sugarbowl

We recommend: Lamb Burger, $14 – free-run lamb, chevre, rosemary aioli, and caramelized onion.

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Edmonton woman

10127 100A Street (780) 425-2073 • itsallgreek.ca

We recommend: Chicken Souvlaki, $14.50 – chicken skewer, pita bread, tzatziki, Greek salad, and rice pilaf or Greek potatoes.

March /April 2014

Food & Drink

Cavern

Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant

Padmanadi Vegetarian Restaurant

10740 101 Street (780) 428-8899 • padmanadi.com Whether you’re a vegan, vegetarian, or red-blooded meat-eater, Padmanadi is a revelation in Asian and Indonesian cuisine. Everything on the menu is vegan, but chances are you won’t be able to tell. Their kung pao chicken is guaranteed to satisfy all kinds of eaters and their vegan cheesecake (yes, that’s right: cheesecake) will blow you away.

Padmanadi’s lunch menu costs $12 per person and includes one entrée, two spring rolls, and a serving of jasmine rice.

We recommend: Ginger beef, $12 – soy beef strips with sweet bell peppers and julienne carrots, tossed in a tangy ginger sauce.

The Big Splurge: Pampa Brazilian Steakhouse 9929 109 Street (780) 756-7030 • pampasteakhouse.com

Pampa Brazilian Steakhouse March /April 2014

When you’re having one of those days where nothing but red meat will make things better, consider splurging at Pampa. The Brazilian steakhouse employs Rodizio serving techniques, which means that all meats are cut fresh for you directly at the table. Since the restaurant is all-you-can-eat, dinner can get pretty pricy at $49.95 a person, not including drinks. If you have some time during the day, then, and haven’t yet had the chance to try Pampa, stop by for lunch. At $24.95 a person, it’s a little pricier than your normal lunch fare, but you get the chance to try everything Pampa has to offer at half the cost of the dinner price. There’s also an unlimited salad bar and, if you have room left, some killer Brazilian-style desserts.

We recommend: The beef rib eye cut, fixed price – tender and juicy, with inimitable flavour drawn from the charcoal grill.

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23

Healthy Living

Ashanti Marshall prepares one of her personal favourite smoothies.

Recipe on Page 27!

How

Smoothies Gave Me Energy to Pursue My Dreams

Photos by Demetri Gianni Photography

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Edmonton woman

March /April 2014

Healthy Living

by Amanda Van Slyke hen I first met Ashanti Marshall a year and a half ago, I was sat at one of the eclectic tables in Block 1912 to watch the powerhouse of a singer jam out with an electric guitar. Her personal style and musical sound has changed since we first met at that café, but it was her health that was secretly taking a journey of its own. A strong, confident woman, no one would suspect Ashanti had been struggling with an eating disorder before she started implementing smoothies into her lifestyle.

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Ashanti, who was on the Paleo diet previously for two years, was struggling with the obsession of staying thin and uses the term ‘starving’ to describe the experience.

“I ate five chicken breasts and a handful of vegetables a day, or just pounds of celery and carrots and other veggies,” says Ashanti. “I was eating 500-1000 calories a day, obsessed with diet information and how to be skinny,” says Ashanti. “I Googled ‘how to lose weight without starving yourself’ and found out about [a high carb vegan diet].”

She began to take on a healthier view of eating when she saw that many people lived on a high carb vegan diet (HCV) not only to lose excess fat and build muscle but also to rid themselves of disease and just generally become healthier.

While a HCV diet might sound like something where you’d only be allowed to eat dairy-free donuts, it’s is more of a lifestyle based around eating fruit. Forget the misconception that sugar and carbs are bad for you and remember that we can’t function properly without the sugar in carbs that fuels us. We often crave things like pasta and pizza because we aren’t eating enough fruit. When we eat bread, the fat won’t let us to absorb the sugar – so while we’ll have energy to survive, we won’t have the nutrients we need to prosper.

“I was terrified of fruit for years until I encountered Freelea the Banana Girl and Durianrider and the whole raw vegan/ high carb vegan movement on Youtube and it changed my life,” says Ashanti.

Continued on Page 26

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25

Healthy Living

Having lived in Edmonton since she was born, twenty-five-year-old Ashanti knows winters can be tough. A production manager for documentary film and television by day, the musician spends her nights inside focused on her art. But instead of binging on junk food like one would be tempted to do in this frozen city, Ashanti uses the time inside to stick to her HCV lifestyle and the positive effects drinking smoothies has on her health.

Ashanti poses with the final product - a healthy, tasty mango and kale smoothie!

“My digestion is better and I don’t have that rock in the pit of my stomach. My mood is regulated and I have tons of energy. I smell good, my skin looks good, my breath is great, and my weight is maintained,” says Ashanti.

“Most importantly, I conquered an eating disorder and constant brain fog.”

Because it’s difficult to overeat and important to get enough calories on a raw vegan or high calorie vegan diet, Ashanti makes sure to eat 3000-5000 calories a day from fruits and vegetables as well as cooked starches, and keeps her fat intake lower than 10 percent a day. This is why packing a mason jar full of blended up fruits and vegetables is a smart choice for those who want to ensure they’re getting the energy they need to take on the day. Ashanti’s favourite meal is a pure banana smoothie for breakfast, which turns out creamy and tastes like ice cream.

While it may seem easier to just grab a smoothie off an isle in the grocery store, Ashanti makes her own every day.

“I prefer to make my smoothies.

That way I know there are the least amount of additives possible,” says Ashanti.

I dabbled for a while in bottled juices and smoothies, but recently I found out most juices contain ‘natural flavour,’ which is an ingredient that comes from either duck feathers, human hair, beaver anal gland and who knows what else. Seriously. Look it up.”

A typical day for Ashanti includes waking up at six a.m, exercising in her apartment for thirty minutes and being showered and ready by seven a.m. Before she leaves for work she makes a one-thousand calorie smoothie for breakfast, and if she can’t drink it all because of time constraints she’ll bring half to work.

“Usually I don’t bring smoothies to work because bananas oxidize after a short while 26 |

Edmonton woman

and they would be a bit sour by lunchtime, so I’ll have pure orange juice with dates for lunch,” says Ashanti.

When she arrives home, she likes to make a fruit smoothie mixed with greens to make sure she gets enough vegetables.

“If I have any cooked or fatty foods like avocado or coconut, it’s best to have it at the end of the day,” she says.

There’s no doubt living a HCV diet takes work in meal planning, grocery shopping and ignoring the stigma that her lifestyle isn’t normal. But Ashanti makes it work because

she knows the benefits make the obstacles look insignificant. She’s also part of an Edmonton vegan meet-up group so that she has a support system in place.

“I shop wholesale to get fruit in bulk, I avoid all oils, I live as simply as I can and I rarely eat at restaurants. If I do eat at a restaurant I request modifications,” she says.

And while many would think eating all those fruits and vegetables would skyrocket her grocery bill, Ashanti says it’s actually the opposite.

Continued on Page 27 March /April 2014

Healthy Living

Because her favourite thing to have is a pure banana smoothie, she grabs a fifty pound box for twenty-two dollars at the Real Canadian Wholesale Club that lasts all week.

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With more energy to spare and less time spent cooking, Ashanti says she’s more confident in pursuing her dreams. She now spends her free time writing, performing music and creating art unabashedly.

“When you fill your life with the natural abundance of fruits and vegetables and simple plant foods, your life outlook changes. You realize that most ‘food’ available isn’t really food at all, it’s poison,” Ashanti says. “It’s always a challenge to change, but it’s 100 percent worth it to go against the grain and live this lifestyle. Given the outrageous benefits, I’m thinking soon it’ll be the norm.”

2 cups mango 1 cup purple kale 1 cup white kale 1 cup green leaf lettuce

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Edmonton woman |

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Healthy Living

Ask the Expert!

Michelle Emmerling, PhD of Counselling Psychology, answers your questions!

Michelle is a Registered Psychologist practicing in Edmonton. She has helped people overcome a diverse range of presenting concerns such as eating disorders, anxiety, depression, grief/loss, and challenges adjusting to life transitions.

Q:

I have recently noticed that my husband has been making unexplained cash withdrawals from his Visa, or personal account. I usually do all the banking, so I am sure he is aware I can see these unexplained amounts. Each withdrawal is usually for a substantial amount of cash, and I am worried about where the money is going. I tried to bring it up once, casually, but he got defensive and argued that he doesn’t ask me questions when I spend money on shopping or my own personal wants. Should I be concerned? How do I get a straightforward answer from him without it turning into an argument?

- Jodi, 32.

A:

Dear Jodi, I can imagine that this is very concerning for you. Financial infidelity is a serious trust issue that needs to be addressed, as it can lead to more serious problems down the road. It is important that you tackle this potential problem by speaking honestly about your concern. If there were an issue, it would be critical to come up with an agreed-upon plan on how it will be addressed.

Every relationship has different ways of looking at the use of money and how it is dealt with, but I do think that it is important for both partners to be aware of money issues in order to feel secure. I would begin by asking him to have a conversation by setting up a time to sit down and talk in a very deliberate manner. In order to lessen the chances of him being defensive, it might be helpful to talk about finances from the perspective of being curious about both of your expenses. One suggestion would be to invite him to sit down with you to review your budget for practical purposes and then make it a priority to ask about where different expenses are going. Try to not take on an accusatory approach.

Instead, approach it from the perspective of wanting both of you to be more accountable for extraneous expenses. This should help in creating a more open and safe space to have an honest conversation.

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Edmonton woman

March /April 2014

Q:

Q:

A:

A:

I divorced my husband six years ago, after years of being unhappy. Our marriage was no longer a loving relationship, and the divorce was one of the most difficult decisions I ever made. Recently, a close family relative passed away, leaving me a substantial amount of money. With this new income, I have been able to pay for our daughter’s education, save money, and generally improve our quality of life. My husband has put two and two together, and I think he is aware of the money I received. For several months now, he has been trying to connect with me again. He claims to miss me, and says that he never wanted the divorce to happen. A part of me still has feelings for him, but I am worried that there are hidden motives on his part. What should I do? - Sheila, 44.

Dear Sheila, It sounds to me that you are having some serious apprehensions about reconnecting with your ex-husband and that there may be some good reasons as to why you are suspicious of his intentions. As I do not know the story of your relationship and divorce it is hard to comment specifically. However, based on the way you have worded your concerns it sounds like you have a gut feeling about the meaning of him reconnecting with you. It can be very hard to trust our gut instincts when strong emotions exist, especially when it involves previous relationships. I think it might help to sit with this gut feeling and to explore it further, either on your own or with the help of a psychologist. Exploring why this relationship ended and why you may now be interested in reuniting (i.e. If everything in your life was going great, would you still want to reconnect?). I think it might also be important to look at being friends first to see what a relationship is like with him now and focusing more on his actions than his words. If you still have feelings that you would like to explore, I think it would be important for both of you to have an honest and open conversation about your relationship. Exploring what it was missing and where it might go in the future. Again this could be on your own or with the assistance of a psychologist.

Taking things slow in order to protect yourself and your daughter throughout this process would allow you to explore your feelings and apprehensions from a safe distance.

Healthy Living

I have been hiding a secret from my entire family. I am a University student, and as far as my parents know, am exceling in my classes and being responsible with my financial loans. However, I’ve racked up a lot of debt. I was able to get a credit card without my parents knowing, and it is now maxed out. I spent a huge portion of my loans on clothes and going out. My parents will be so mad at me if they find out, but with the way things are looking, I won’t be able to pay for another semester of school.

How can I come clean without my parents completely cutting ties with me? - Kayla, 21.

Dear Kayla, I can imagine that what makes this situation very challenging for you is that you do not want to disappoint your parents or have them upset with you. Debt can feel like a personal failure and can lead to feelings of guilt, shame, and embarrassment. However, it is important for you to know that this does not say anything about who you are as a person. The first step is to open up the lines of communication by being honest about your situation. It would be helpful to take some time to think about or write down what you want to say to them. It is reasonable to assume that they will be shocked and initially upset about this news; however, most people find that loved ones often do not react as badly as they imagined. Even if they do get angry or upset, they will most likely appreciate your honesty in the long run. Make sure you pick a time for the conversation that allows all of you to be fully present. It might also help to develop a plan beforehand on how you will start to tackle your debt to show that you are committed to solving the problem and taking responsibility for it. This might involve creating a budget plan, contacting professionals that might be able to help you, and/or coming up with a debt repayment plan (i.e. such as working to start to pay down the debt).

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cbcf.org/prairies March /April 2014

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29

Green Living

A Better (Green) You

How Altering Your Diet to be More Plant-Based Can Change Your Life

by Ashley Rempel hen I was first given the general theme of this issue, I pondered a few different topics that I could write about that would better the environment, you, and your wallet.

Sitting lost in thought while eating a homemade vegan coconut bar, I realized the most obvious choice was staring me right in the face (literally). Changing my diet to mostly vegan has been one of the smallest changes I’ve made that has had such a beneficial impact on me, physically and spiritually.

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I’ve never really liked meat and was what I called a ‘Vegetarian on the Fence’ for many years (meaning I wouldn’t eat any red meat, but would sometimes eat chicken and fish). Then about a year and a half ago I found out that I was allergic to eggs and cow’s milk, which made me change my diet quite drastically (what, no more cheese?!)

After a few non-graceful moments of hysterics over not being able to each cheese or yogurt or anything that contains any kind of milk product in it, I bucked up and looked at the bright side, seeing an answer to multiple health issues I had been having and a solution to fix them. Changing your diet is one of the easiest ways to avoid/treat health issues, and I was determined.

Now we, especially as women, hear the word ‘diet’ and cringe. Society has warped the word ‘diet’ into being associated solely with losing weight. Diet makes us feel fat. Diet is a negative word. South Beach 30 |

Edmonton woman

Diet, Grapefruit Diet, Cayenne Pepper and Water Only Diet … All terrible, all things we shouldn’t have to think about. The word ‘diet’ actually has to do with nutrition. If you’re neglecting your body of consuming foods, you’re not getting any nutrition.

Anyways, I’m getting off topic. Cutting out milk products and eggs was hard – you’d be surprised how many packaged products contain both. I found myself reading labels, not looking at how much fat or calories was in something, but what the ingredients were. My whole mentality of eating changed and I found myself having to get creative and enter a realm of cooking that I hadn’t really dabbled in before – the best place to find recipes was looking up ‘vegan’.

Vegan means that it doesn’t include any animal products, or anything that has come from an animal (milk, gelatin, etc). I found myself looking at products and fruits and vegetables that I’d never looked at before. My sight in the grocery store changed drastically over time, and my thought process did as well.

After plenty of research on the topic, I’ve found that plant-based diets are extremely eco-friendly. The statistics and facts that I’ve found can be somewhat alarming and it made the change instantly easier, knowing this small change I was doing was benefitting not only my body and my mind, but the environment as well.

Continued on Page 30 March /April 2014

As the population’s appetite for meat rises, entire ecosystems are being destroyed and bulldozed to build mass farms and crops to feed the animals on them. 80% of the agricultural land in the United States is used to raise animals and grow grain to feed them. Animals that are raised for food are also the primary consumers of water – did you know that it takes more than 2,400 gallons of water to produce 1 pound of beef, where it only takes 180 gallons of water to product 1 pound of whole wheat flour?

In regards to pollution - carbon dioxide, methane, and nitrous oxide are the primary causes of global warming. Producing a little more than 2 pounds of beef causes more greenhouse gas emissions than driving a car for three hours and uses up more energy than leaving your house lights on for the same period of time. The Worldwatch Institute estimates that at least 51 percent of greenhouse gas emissions worldwide can be attributed to “livestock and their byproducts”. I won’t even go into the horror stories of farm factories and how animals raised solely for eating are treated (this goes for dairy and egg farms as well).

almost fully vegan diet is my health. I haven’t been getting sick as much and my digestion has never been better. I feel more energized and less lethargic than I did before. I used to have these white splotches and ridges on my nails, and they were so thin I could bend them easily (doctors would say all of this was due to a lack of calcium) – but now my nails are stronger (I can hardly bend them at all) with no more white spots. I’ve also been sleeping better and my mood has been generally happier and more peaceful.

With all of the antibiotics and steroids used to fatten animals up faster, and other drugs to keep the animals alive in conditions that would otherwise kill them to meet the population’s demand, it’s no wonder that this could definitely relate to the amount of sicknesses and health issues in the world. The drugs that are given to the animals goes into their cells, and then when they are slaughtered and humans eat them, you’re also putting remnants of those drugs into your body. This doesn’t only go for eating the meat of an animal, but in the milk and eggs that they produce.

Changing to a more plant-based diet is also a great money saver. If you think about it, meat is one of the most expensive things in the grocery stores. If you put those dollars towards things like whole grains, beans, vegetables and fruits, it will go a lot further and feed you for much longer. Not to mention pump your body with tons of delicious nutrients!

One of the great benefits I’ve noticed in myself since changing to an Ashley is a full-time graphic designer who has made great steps over the years to become more green and earth-friendly. She considers herself a recycler, an upcycler, a reuser and a re-reuser. Informing others on easy, cost-effective ways to help Mother Earth is another way she is trying to save the world one step at a time. You can find her on Twitter @AshleyTenille or check out the blog on her website for more Being Green tips www.creative-ten.com

Green Living

Maybe veganism isn’t for you, or maybe it seems too large of a task to take on and too big of a life change. But for me, this has been one of the best changes I’ve ever made. Even if you take small steps and do things such as Meatless Mondays, you would be doing a huge favour to the environment, your body, and maybe even your mind.

For more information and tips on being eco-friendly and vegan, check out Ashley’s co-hosted website www.theenvigirls.com.

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WELLNESS COACHES NEEDED! Work At Home Earn What You are Worth Come meet me at the anti-aging @ Wellness Expo www.workfromhomesystem.com/kite

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