An Apple a Day December 2013

december 2013

Wellness For Life

The

Christmas Connection

St. Joseph’s Home Health connects with seniors in our community in the true spirit of Christmas pg. 12

Budweiser salutes the more than 140 million American adults who have either been or used a Designated Driver.* Choosing a DD is an important part of every holiday celebration. Thanks for helping to keep our roads safe. *Source: GFK Custom Research North America, 2013

Š2013 Anheuser-Busch, BudweiserŽ Beer, St. Louis, MO

OUR ADVERTISERS front inside First Physicians

1 Standard Sales 2 Midland Memorial Hospital

5 Furst Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery

5 The Springboard Center

7 Other Remedies

9 ORMC

9 The Odessa Family Y

10 Advanced Hearing Care at PBRC

14 MCH 15 Laser & Aesthetic Center

18 Occasions Fine Jewelry

18 Cooking with Kim

21 Stephanie Beidler, MD

21 Hunt Advertising

22 Medical Center Health System back inside National Cooling, Heating & Plumbing back cover Freedom Buick GMC Truck

Wellness For Life

24

6

To advertise, contact Mary at 432–550–7339 Publisher Mary Hunt, Ha! Publishing Editor Evangeline Ehl Publication Manager Mary Hunt Sales Mary Hunt, Miriam Manriquez Writers Christina Ashing; Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, FNS; Joy Harriman; Wendy Hilliard; Keliree Mitchell Photography Michael Horton, The Springboard Center, Mark Swindler Design Sarah Fleck, Chantel Miller

Have a great story idea for An Apple A Day? Submit your idea online at www.anapplemag.com.

3527 Billy Hext Road • Odessa, TX 79765 432 550 5998 • 866 550 7329 fax 432 550 7346 www.hapublishing.com The information in this magazine is not meant to treat, diagnose, prescribe, or cure any ailment. Always check with your physician before taking any products or following any advice you have read. Always consult your physician before you start, stop, or change anything that has been previously prescribed. All content herein is the property of Ha! Publishing and may not be reprinted or reproduced in any medium without the written permission of the publisher. Some art work is used at the sole discretion of the advertiser and is not created by Hunt Advertising.

4 4 The Springboard Center: Healing Body, Mind, and Spirit

6 Less Stress This Holiday 8 The Y—Caring for Your Children

19 Get Fit With Kim: Have a Very Merry Christmas

20 Woof Woof! The Dog Blog by Mindy

11 The Gift of Health

23 Health & Beauty: Tips for the Perfect Manicure…At Home!

12 The Christmas Connection

24 Recipe: Salt & Pepper Walnuts

ON THE COVER Luis Diaz and Delma H. Chavez of St. Joseph’s Home Health connects with seniors in our community in the true spirit of Christmas.

READ MORE ON PAGE 12 an apple a day december 2013

3

The Springboard Center: Healing Body, Mind, and Spirit

by Christina Ashing

C

reated and located in Midland, Texas, we first opened our doors in 1999, and have grown into a progressive treatment facility for individuals with addiction. Our mission is to raise the level of community awareness concerning addictive disease and to provide quality treatment and counseling for alcoholism and drug addiction to residents of the Permian Basin and beyond.

Our state-of-the-art comprehensive recovery and wellness facility houses our Medical Detoxification/ In-Patient Residential Treatment Program, as well as the center’s highly successful Intensive Outpatient Treatment Program. We are fully licensed by the Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) and nationally accredited by the Commission of Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF).

At The Springboard Center, we provide a strong foundation for individuals beginning their journey into wellness and recovery. Our clients come from all walks of life, each with unique sets of challenges and circumstances that are met with an individual treatment plan designed to arrest the client’s addictive disease. Our clinical and counseling staff has decades of experience in the successful treatment of addiction; and each is committed to assisting in the recovery of

4 december 2013 an apple a day

individual clients by treatment of compassion and understanding.

Our professional medical team and licensed counselors blend a variety of proven therapies and experiences to create optimal treatment outcomes for our clients. This includes the 12-step principles, reality and rational emotive therapy, cardio, yoga, equine therapy, as well as a medically supervised diet to nutritiously stabilize mood and blood sugar levels.

We offer plenty of outdoor space to exercise; playing basketball, volleyball, and Frisbee; or to just relax and enjoy the West Texas sunsets in a peaceful and supportive environment for our clients to begin their journey of recovery.

We restore health, hope, and dignity to individuals and their families, guiding their individual path to optimal physical, emotional, and spiritual health.

We holistically treat each person, believing health and nutrition, exercise, and emotional and spiritual development are essential to help ensure positive life changes and long-term recovery. We believe family involvement is essential for recovery and wellness, and we offer many opportunities for family members to participate in treatment.

We would be honored to guide you and your loved ones down the pathway of recovery and to discover a new and exciting way to experience life!

Matthew B. Furst, m.d., p.a.

Diplomate American Board of Surgery Diplomate American Board of Plastic Surgery

Providing specialized assessment & treatment through a full range of plastic surgery solutions.

BREAST SURGERY • Augmentation • Reduction • Reconstruction • Lift

BODY CONTOURING • Abdominoplasty • Liposuction

(432) 580-8044

318 N Alleghaney, Suite 400 Odessa, TX • 79761 www.furstplasticsurgery.com

Less Stress This Holiday

by Joy Harriman

T

here are so many who approach the holiday season with worries: grief or loss of loved family members, unrealistic expectations of having the perfect holiday, financial and time pressures, social obligations, or isolation and loneliness. Sometimes we just don’t want to be happy in what’s supposed to be a happy season. Then again, some carry the worrisome expectations that this year will be different from the last: that we will have no conflict, that one dinner will impress the in-laws, or that having the family together will negate years of neglect, stress, and disappointments.

going on a cruise but I’m afraid the guilt would be too much. What can I do?

Before going home, take some time to think about your own expectations. Realizing that your folks won’t change, ask yourself what they really want to find out. Are they worried you’ll flunk out of school, remain a spinster, or that they’ll have to support you? What are their expectations of your life? Do they think you won’t reach them? Can you share the answers to these questions with them and put them at ease?

Simplify your whole experience this year: look at your expectations and ask if they’re reasonable.

How can we escape the holiday highs and lows?

Other than hiding away with a book, how can we avoid the emotional roller coaster when coping with the stresses and tensions presented during the holidays?

I love my family. Every time I come home from college, my folks increase the pressure about one thing or another. It’s insane: once one area is covered, they hit on the next. I’d like to avoid the entire holiday season by 6 december 2013 an apple a day

You could decide before going home how far you’re willing to go with their pressure. When that point is reached, plan for your own time out—go for a walk, get fresh air, calm down, and change the subject.

As long as you have a plan taking into account reasonable expectations of what you will encounter and walk away with, you’ll be able to survive even the most loving family.

Our holidays are wonderful—for everyone else but me. I work so hard to get everything done: cook, go to work, decorate, be sure the

kids have the presents they want, make sure his mother is included. At the end I’m exhausted, frantic, over budget, and emotionally spent. Is it supposed to be like this?

No! But each year you choose to do this you set the stage for further expectations from your family. Try to share the wealth—give everyone a responsibility. They may not do it the same way you have, but you’ll have to give up control of the outcome. Include everyone and you may have just developed a new family memory!

I’ve lost so many family members in the last five years. The holidays to me are a reminder of who isn’t here, not who is. How do I start to move on without allowing their memory to be forgotten?

Don’t go through the holidays thinking you should not be grieving. After a period of time has passed allow yourself some quiet time during the day to remember with love those who have passed.

Then rejoin the spirit of the day and look to find a comfortable emotion other than grief where you can live in the present. Do something to create a different, positive holiday memory if you have to reclaim the holiday from a previous horrible or sad event.

It may be time to talk to a counselor, therapist, or pastor. Self understanding is the beginning to change your perspective. If you understand your grief or stress, then the power and its impact on your life seems to become less.

Is there enough time to get ready? I start shopping for bargains during the year, cooking and freezing in early November, and by New Year’s I’m a grump. Help!

When you try to meet unreal expectations then you’re going to get stressed. Someone might come up with a new idea that would be fun to try, but as the planner, you’re only going to see another burden.

Simplify your whole experience this year: look at your expectations and ask if they’re reasonable. If you have fifteen things to do on your list and the

majority of them aren’t being done well, cut that to only two or three that you’ll do quite well.

Are the fifteen things your expectations or from your mother and grandmother? Changing family rituals is not being disloyal—you might take an aspect of that previous ritual and incorporate your own family’s new holiday tradition. Be sure you discuss any changes with your relatives first—reduce stress, increase communication, find a compromise if necessary, and do it all before the event.

There’s always so much going on during the holiday season. I don’t want my kids stressed any more than necessary. What can I do to help them?

Slow down your own schedule and reconnect with your kids during the school vacation. When things get hectic, schedule some time for them of uninterrupted play. Find new ways they can participate. They might be interested in thinking of a special gift and you could help them make things to celebrate the holiday. Most importantly, keep relationships in mind, not just getting the job done.

THE Y-CARING FOR YOUR CHILDREN

by Wendy Hilliard

H

ectic day-to-day living can make going to the gym challenging, especially for moms with young children. Just getting everyone up, ready, and out the door is taxing. The last thing a stressed mom needs to worry about is that hour or two of babysitting while she exercises. The Odessa Family Y Nursery staff understands this and is here to help.

Litina Reynolds goes to the Odessa Family Y specifically because of the nursery. “I drive 30 miles a day to go to the gym. I don’t have anybody to watch my four-month-old son. It’s impossible to work out at home. I can try to do a 30-minute step video but it’s a constant stop and start. It can take up to three hours to complete that video. I’m at everyone’s beck and call.”

“If my kids aren’t happy, I can’t work out,” said Odessa Family Y member Rayonnie Leilua. Leilua participates in the Y Fitness program in addition to attending group fitness classes. Leilua has two children, ages three and four. “I really like the Y’s nursery. I don’t worry, I feel at ease to be away from the kids.”

Reynolds also found the Y member nursery service reasonably priced.

“I like that the Y charges per family, not per child. Most other nurseries don’t offer that.”

The spacious nursery is divided into two areas, one part for infants and a larger area for older children.

“Being moms ourselves we understand how important is to have childcare. We care for the children like they are our “When I’m at the own,” said Odessa Y nursery employee Paige Hackett. “We Y, it’s my time. build relationships with the kids I really like the and parents.”

ladies, they care for my kids like they do their own.”

To ensure safety, Y nursery staff attaches paper wristbands with matching numbers to both parent and child. “Only those parents who signed in their children and have the corresponding wristband number are allowed to take the child,” said Hackett.

A nice convenience the Y nursery offers moms is diaper changing, which could be one of the reasons Leilua made this observation. “I know this sounds funny but it smells good in there. They are constantly wiping everything down. It’s really clean.”

8 december 2013 an apple a day

Even though the nursery staff watches the Continued on page 15

give the gift of life this Holiday Season

This year, give your loved ones a true gift from the heart. The HeartView Scan is a non-invasive way to detect health problems before symptoms occur. The scan takes approximately 10 minutes and is performed on a state-of-the-art 64-slice CT scanner.

This test does not require a physician’s order. The cost is $75 and no insurance will be filed. Just call 432-582-8677 to schedule a scan for yourself or a loved one.

75

heartview scan

$

Follow us on

For a free physician referral or for more information about our screenings and seminars call 432-582-8677 520 East Sixth • Odessa • odessaregional.com

for youth development for healthy living for social responsibility

experience fitness at the odessa family y • Latest equipment and technology • Nursery care for members • Certified instructors and personal trainers • Fun classes to fit your schedule • No initiation fees or contracts 3001 e. university odessa, tx 79762 432–362–4301 • www.odessaymca.org

The Gift of Health

I

s it holiday shopping season already? Many of us have to decide what to get those “hard to shop for” people on our lists. Here’s a healthy idea: instead of another tie, book, or socks, why not give a unique gift? Why not give them something that will help promote wellness in their life? You can buy wellness for a variety of prices, at all health levels, and for all different ages.

Here are a few suggestions: Fitness, Well-Being, Food, Glow, Happy Pets, High Tech, and Relaxation.

THE GIFT OF FITNESS $15 or Under • Dumbbells (walmart.com) • Gift certificate for an exercise class • Jump ropes (kohls.com) • Resistance bands (dickssportinggoods.com) • Yoga mat (gaiam.com) $15–$35 • Fitness ball (tjmaxx.com) • Heart rate monitor (rei.com) • Home exercise video (gaiam.com or collagevideo.com) • Pedometer (ulta.com) • Fitness bag (zappos.com) • Brooks Infiniti Headband and Pulse Lite Gloves (brooksrunning.com) • 3-in-1 kettleball (empowerfitness.com)

by Joy Harriman

THE GIFT OF WELL-BEING $15 or Under • The Healing Seed skin care (healingseed.com) • ThorLo moisture wicking socks (thorlo.com) • OraWellness Brushing Blend (orawellness.com) • UA Pure Stretch thong and cheeky—most comfy undies ever (underarmour.com) • Relaxation/meditation/prayer CDs (amazon.com) $15–$35 • Eco-Yoga mat by Natural Fitness (naturalfitnessinc.com) • 3-in-1 foam roller—warm up and cool down (sportsauthority.com) • The Ultimate Ball Juggling Combo (jugglingstore.com) Over $50 • Orthaheel Rhythm Walker—a walking shoe with orthotics (orthaheelusa.com) • Specialized Body Geometry Ridge Wiretap Gloves—touch-screen functionality built in (specialized.com) • The Sharper Image SleepSounds Music and Alarm Pillow (sharperimage.com) • The Strong Women’s Journal (strongwomen.com) Continued on page 16

Over $50 • Bicycle (Bicycles Etc., Peyton’s Bikes) • Full dumbbell and barbell set (sears.com) • Personal training session(s) (Local gyms) • Treadmill (Fitnessspecialist.com, academy.com) • Bosu (bosu.com) • Gym, health club, or YMCA membership

an apple a day december 2013 11

The

Christmas Connection

F

or most of us, the holidays are a time to gather with friends and family, celebrate, reflect on the past, and plan for the future. But what about those who live alone?

For some who are alone or feel alone, the holidays can be difficult. Especially during the holidays, older adults may feel more sharply the passing of time, the absence of those who have died, and the distance of loved ones who have moved away. Traditional reunions and rituals that were observed in the past may not be possible and in their absence, the holidays may seem less full of meaning.

More than 1.5 million Americans live in nursing homes and many more live by themselves. That’s not a bad thing in itself, of course. For some seniors, what used to be the busiest, most bustling time of year, has now become a time of melancholic reflections and solitude. Friends are getting older and the pile of Christmas party invitations gets shorter and shorter as the years pass. Senior loneliness is a very common issue during this time.

Ben Boaz, RN, MS, LMFT, has been a psychiatric nurse for 37 years. A year ago he relocated to Midland from the Dallas area, where he’d been for the last 30 years, and is now working with St. Joseph’s Home Health, Inc. As a matter of fact, he is the only psychiatric nurse employed by a home health agency in the Permian Basin.

“My work is to go into the community and visit people in their homes. We have a huge catchment area—I drive almost a thousand miles a week,” he said. “I see patients through their physician’s referral to St. Joseph’s Home Health. I assess their mental health and assist with adjustment to physical problems they’re having.”

12 december 2013 an apple a day

by Joy Harriman

Ben ends up seeing mainly two types of patients.

The first is the purely psychiatric patients who have left the hospital to live on their own. “Part of my work enables the psychiatrist to have an extra set of eyes and ears on the patients. I’m able to assess for medication adjustment requirements as well as to help individuals become less depressed.”

The second type of patients is those with medical problems who also happen to have mental health issues. “I’m able to help a patient obtain the quality of life they previously enjoyed before their illness or injury. For example: I can assist in counseling patients who have newly become homebound or who have been diagnosed with an ill“My idea of Christmas, ness requiring lots whether old-fashioned or of medications. It modern, is very simple: loving can be overwhelming and confusing at others. Come to think of it, times, establishing why do we have to wait for when to take what.

Christmas to do that?”

It’s great that they - Bob Hope are living and functioning on their own and my visits are not only a reinforcement of that, but a continuation of education and an outreach of caring.”

“During the holidays it’s real important to remember that the elderly have the ability to be helpful to others. I always recommend that people do everything they can to help the isolated elderly help others. It helps sadness and depression so much to step out of ourselves, to think about others and what they need. Connecting the elderly persons with others is wonderful!”

“One of my patients has cooked all her life for her family. Now there is no one at home so she’s

Luis Diaz and Delma H. Chavez, St. Joseph’s Home Health

started to bake and take the food to other elderly people in her area.

It’s a ministry for her to take to others and there are lots of others in her neighborhood that she can befriend. It has really helped her overcome her own depression to care for others.”

Interestingly, Purdue University researchers recently found that for adults 70 and older, volunteering—above other forms of social engagement—helps to give them a younger biological profile. That means they are healthier than people ages 58 to 69 who infrequently volunteer, according to the research.

“Surviving and flourishing during the holidays still comes down to not being alone. The hardest part about life for the elderly is isolation and loneliness.

If community members can help them to not be alone by visiting or by helping them connect with others, that’s the best thing.”

Even if a person doesn’t feel that lonely in their everyday life, the holiday season that Continued on page 17

an apple a day december 2013 13

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The Laser and Aesthetic Center of the Permian Basin has moved to 850 Tower Drive, Suite 112 Odessa, TX 79761.

Welcome dr. riTchie o. rosso Jr.!

Dr. Robert L. Chappell Jr. welcomes Dr. Ritchie O. Rosso Jr. as his new associate. Dr. Rosso is originally from Virginia and received his M.D. with distinction from the University of Virginia. He then completed a clinical research fellowship at the National Institute of Health, followed by an internship in Internal Medicine at St. Lukes-Roosevelt Hospital Center in New York City. He completed his dermatology residency with a focus in dermatological surgery at the University of Miami in Miami, FL. Dr. Rosso specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, including Mohs surgery. He also has a focus in cosmetic dermatology including laser resurfacing, fillers, and other specialized procedures.

Dr. Robert L. Chappell, Jr. 432–580–8060 • www.lacpb.net

Continued from page 8 children only an hour or two a day, they are, after all, moms too and feel it’s important to encourage learning and personal responsibility. “We make sure the kids clean up their messes and pick up their toys after they’re finished playing with them,” Hackett said.

Both Reynolds and Leilua appreciate the “me” time they have at the Odessa Family Y. “I push myself harder when I go to Y classes. When I work out I have more energy for my family and my job. I do this for me,” said Reynolds.

Cost is $15 per month per family. Nursery hours are Monday— Thursday 8 am to 9 pm, Fridays 8 am to 7 pm, and Saturdays 9 am to 12 pm. The nursery is closed on Sundays. For more information contact the Odessa Family Y at 432–362–4301.

Leilua finds her time at the Y vital not only for her physical health but for her mental well-being as well. “When I don’t work out, I am not the same person. When I’m at the Y, it’s my time. I really like the ladies, they care for my kids like they do their own,” Leilua said.

The Odessa Family Y nursery is available for infants 6 weeks of age and for children up to twelve years. an apple a day december 2013 15

Continued from page 11 THE GIFT OF FOOD $15 and Under • Jokari Healthy Steps portion control nut bowl and scoop (amazon.com) • Trudeau silicone single egg poacher, yellow (amazon.com) • Grapefruit, oranges, and tangerines (your grocer) • Bodum Schiuma milk frother to whip latte foam (bodum.com) • Sur La Table macaron ornaments (surlatable.com) $15–35 • Nudo Aglio, Olio, e Peperoncino: A pretty tin with garlic extra-virgin olive oil, organic spaghetti, and Italian chiles (nudo-italia.com) • Heart healthy salad dressing in great bottles: Sagaform (burkedecor.com) • West Elm twig cheese knife set (westelm.com) • Progressive collapsible produce keeper (amazon.com) • Vosges Petits Chocolat (vosgeschocolate.com) Over $50 • Breville Juice Fountain Elite 800 JEXL (brevilleusa.com) • Dr. Alkaitis Holistic Organic Skin Food (alkaitis.com) • Organic juices—free shipping during December (shop.juicehugger.com) • Nuts and fruit baskets (harryanddavid.com) • Vacuum food sealer (foodsaver.com) • Food processor (kitchenaid.com) • Gift certificates to local healthy restaurants THE GIFT OF GLOW $15 and Under • Beauty SOS: From polish remover to breath mints, 17 tiny must-haves called Pinch Glitter Mini-Emergency Kit (pinchprovisions.com) • Brass twinkle earrings (etsy.com) • Frontier Angel scratch-made soap (frontierangel.com) $15—35 • Pop art nails: Nars Photo Booth gift set (narscosmetics.com) • Stila All Is Bright lip glaze (stilacosmetics.com) 16 december 2013 an apple a day

• Sonia Kashuk Gilded Cage 6-piece holiday brush set (Target.com) • Eye shadow kit: Sephora Collection Moonshadow Baked Palette In the Night (Sephora.com) Over $50 • 24KT hair: Oribe gold pomade (oribe.com) • Fresh Sake Bath—a spicy-citrus soak (fresh.com) • Skin Santa: Moroccan oil body buff (moroccanoil.com) • Bellaphoria cosmetics—makeup for the healthy woman (bellaphoria.com) THE GIFT OF HAPPY PETS $15 and Under • Shadow pet bowls that are BPA and lead free (bambeco.com) • Canine chic—Petco ugly holiday sweater (petco.com) • Ruff Wear Quencher collapsible waterproof bowl (ruffwear.com) • Deck the Paws jeweled cat collar (drsfostersmith.com) • Claudia’s holiday party platters gourmet cookies (drsfostersmith.com) $15–35 • Bucket-o-balls made with eco-friendly dyes (bambeco.com) • Umbra fish hotel (umbra.com) • Pugz boot (shoebuy.com) • Colossal Christmas grunter dog toys (drsfostersmith.com) • PupLight—#1 light for dogs (puplight.com) • A dental gift certificate or a dental cleaning kit (petsmart.com) Over $50 • A gift certificate for training • A grooming kit or a grooming gift certificate (petsmart.com) • Donation/charity: animal adoption centers (gifts.worldwildlife.org) • A sustainable gift: send a goat or hens to Africa (oxfam.org) • Microchip pets for permanent identification THE GIFT OF HIGH TECH $15 and Under • Motivation CD/DVDs (amazon.com)

• Inspirational music (apple.com) • Apps: Chow and Chatter Recipes (apple.com) • Apps: Fooducate—Weight Loss & Healthy Food Diet Tracker (apple.com) • Apps: HappyCow—The Healthy Eating Guide (apple.com) $15–$35 • Petite Boombox: iHome portable Jam speaker (kohls.com) • Bluetooth keyboard case—turns a tablet into a portable workstation (kohls.com) • Vizlet LED triangles—reflectors for protection (runningwarehouse.com) Over $50 • Alen T100 desktop HEPA air purifier (store.alencorp.com) • New Wave Enviro premium showers filter (newwaveenviro.com) • Fit Bit Zip—postage stamp sized to track workout progress (fitbit.com) • Ugg Australia quilted Fontanne tech earmuffs (Bloomingdales)

THE GIFT OF RELAXATION $15 and Under • Ambressa Safari breakfast tea (Harney.com) • Aromatherapy candles and essential oils: breathe air revitalizer (amazon.com) • Eye-Soothe tension-relieving mask (amazon.com) $15–35 • Archipelago lavender 5 bath salts (shoparchipelago.com) • Slatkin & Co. pierced owl figural (qvc.com) • Uncommon Goods moss terrarium bottle— bring nature indoors (uncommongoods.com) Over $50 • CB2 Reyna throw for cozy afternoons (cb2.com) • Trigger point therapy massage tools (tptherapy.com) • Gift certificate to a local certified masseuse

Continued from page 13 used to be so uplifting and full of social functions is now just a reminder of how much things have changed, and can make elderly people living on their own feel especially lonely. It is possible to break the solitude. We can be alone without being lonely and can feel lonely without being alone. The real key is to feel connected with someone that can be counted on, someone who understands.

“We work to connect the community resources with those who need them.

For the Permian Basin area there are enough organizations to support folks, a lot of churches have special meals around the holidays, and there are the Meals-On-Wheels delivery volunteers. You have no idea how

much of an impact those food delivery visits have on isolated, lonely elderly. They light up when that delivery volunteer comes by! The human contact is so important. The care of folks comes down to time: people still love time. It’s hard to be alone. The people I see are so appreciative of the time I take to spend time—to sit with them—in their homes.”

“One of our goals at St. Joseph is to provide excellent home care to our community. For those members of the community who are trying to make a difference, I can only say: go visit, call them on the phone. Help them understand they’re not forgotten.”

In addition to Ben’s certified psychiatric nursing skills, St. Joseph’s also offers a wide variety of home care services including physical and occupational therapy, speech therapy, a medical social worker, nutritional counseling, and nursing care. Soon they will expand and move to a new facility at 30 Village Circle in Midland. www.stjosephshomehealth.com

an apple a day december 2013 17

Cooking With Kim 2014 Winter Class Schedule January 9 - Family Style A rustic meal served family style that will be a favorite at Sunday lunches or anytime.

January 23 - Soup-er Hearty Meals Winter chowders and stews are quick and healthy weeknight meal. The leftovers make great lunches.

February 6 - Valentine’s Day Special Learn to cook a romantic dinner for two instead of fighting the crowds this Valentine’s Day. Make this year a special night in.

February 20 - TBD Each class is $25 (payment and registration required prior to class). To register and pay, or ask questions, contact me at 432–557–5001 or getfitwithkim@cableone.net. Classes are filling up quickly!

Classes for private groups and parties are also available– choose your own menu and class date! You can also prepay and register for every scheduled class and you are guaranteed the recipes for those classes whether you can attend or not.

Contact me for details!

get fit with kim HAVE A VERY MERRY CHRISTMAS

B

elow are tips from S.A.N.T.A. on how to make your holiday season merry and bright.

S: Get some sunshine (about 10 minutes) every day. At one time or another you may have experienced the “winter blues” especially if you are a summer-loving person. Well, you’re not alone. This is actually very common during this time of year when the days get shorter, reducing our exposure to light. It’s called seasonal affective disorder (SAD). Some symptoms include lack of energy, oversleeping, moodiness, and appetite changes.

Light therapy is one way to combat these symptoms. Luckily, we don’t have many overcast days in West Texas. So, we can easily get our light therapy the natural way—sunshine. Everything seems better with a little sunshine on your face; and maybe a little chocolate, too.

We can’t manage away all stress in life, as hard as we may try. However, we can choose the way we respond to it.

A: Be alert. Crime is high during the holidays. I’m an advocate of parking far from an entrance and walking as part of an active lifestyle. However, during the holidays criminals know people will be carrying more expensive purchases and extra cash.

Don’t set yourself up as an easy target.

If you will be returning to your car after dark: • park closer to the entrance • have your keys in your hand, not in your purse • park under a street light • don’t shop alone

Be aware of your surroundings without being cynical or paranoid. Personal safety is just responsible.

N: Decide now what to say no to this season.

Deciding ahead of time which social obligations you will participate in, who is hosting Christmas this year, how much money you will spend, etc. can go a long way in destressing your holiday. Simplifying and cutting back on things and events you really do not have the time or resources to commit to will not only make you happier but also those around you happier. Say no graciously instead of participating with a negative attitude by saying something like, “I really hate to miss your party this year, but my plate is already full. Thank you for thinking of me.” You will find that people will completely understand and appreciate your thoughtfulness, too.

T: Do you feel like you were overly busy all day and got nothing done? Time management is a skill that we can all benefit from learning. By incorporating just a few time management strategies, you will be less stressed and more productive. There are several websites devoted to this topic. One is www.mayoclinic.com.

A: It’s all in your attitude. “Be careful how you think.

Your thoughts shape your life.” Proverbs 4:23 has been a verse that I revisit periodically to help me during stressful times. We can’t manage away all stress in life, as hard as we may try. However, we can choose the way we respond to it. If you think you’re going to have a bad day, chances are you will. People respond accordingly to the attitude you portray. I leave you with this final thought—happy is as happy does…and thinks! Merry Christmas y’all!

Special thanks to this month’s contributor: Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, FNS getfitwithkim@cableone.net

an apple a day december 2013 19

woof, woof!

the dog blog by mindy

Keliree Mitchell founded Petspotters, a Facebook site dedicated to connecting lost pets with their owners after losing her own pet Chihuahua, Mindy. Woof, Woof! represents stories related to this site and is dedicated to Mindy.

T

he Season of Miracles is the title of a few old movies, an opera, a book, and now the title of this blog. It truly is a season of miracles for those of us who share in the Christian faith because of the birth of our Lord. Miracles happen every day in our lives and sometimes they aren’t even recognized as being a miracle. I believe in miracles. I believe in miracles because not believing would be like living with no hope or faith.

When you lose your pet you must believe in miracles. You have to. Having the faith that you will get them home is the only thing that keeps you going. That miracle is what gets you through the grief. My girl Mindy has been gone three years and I still believe a miracle could happen for us. If it doesn’t at least I have peace in my heart, for if she hadn’t been missing then Petspotters wouldn’t exist.

And because Petspotters does exist many more lost ones have made their way back home. Knowing that makes it easier. A miracle and Petspotters is the reason two lost Malamutes made their way home, after being missing for a year.

I remember seeing the post of the lost Malamutes. A male and female disappeared from their yard. Possibly stolen, but no one really knew how they got out of their yard.

Their family was desperately searching for them in every rescue,

20 december 2013 an apple a day

in every alley and field. They were consumed with the search; it’s just way too hard to stop. It feels like giving up. At some point you will stop driving the streets, but you never stop looking down alleys or checking the shelters and rescues. You never stop reviewing the lost pet pages because you have hope. You believe in miracles.

Then one fine day, you see a picture on Petspotters.

At first glance, you think, no way. Then you study the picture until you can’t take your eyes off of it.

Finally, you decide. That’s my dog. I have to get to her right now. On your way to pick her up, your mind is telling your heart not to get your hopes up. But you can’t help it. When you walk in and see her sitting there as if she had been waiting on you forever. She jumps towards you so happy to see you and you cry because you know this is your miracle.

Yes, miracles happen every day. Some are so subtle you may barely notice and then some reach right into your heart and squeeze. Finding your dog in the Odessa Animal Control Shelter after a year has passed, that’s a miracle. Having a group of over 5,000 people across the city help you find your lost pet, that’s a miracle. Thank you, Petspotters. …If you have faith as small as a mustard seed you could say to this mountain, “Move from here to there,” and it would move. Nothing would be impossible. –Matthew 17:20

Special thanks to this month’s contributor: Keliree Mitchell Founder, Petspotters www.facebook.com/petspotters

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health & beauty TIPS FOR THE PERFECT MANICURE…AT HOME!

A

re you tired of spending thousands of dollars each year at the nail salon? If you’re like most of the country, budgets are tighter than ever. To compensate for high gas prices and the rising cost of food, tanning and massage salons are seeing a decline in customers due to the economy. In addition, many women are forgoing their weekly trip to their professional nail technician and are doing their nails at home. However, knowing how to properly buff and prepare nails can be a challenge. If not done correctly, you can actually damage your nails. So, take a look at these easy steps and learn the correct way to buff nails.

USE SALON PRODUCTS AND TOOLS FOR THE BEST RESULTS There are thousands of nail products on the market today and knowing which tools you need to properly buff your nails can be tricky. However, if you visit your local beauty store you will need to pick up only a few products. First, a handheld nail buffer is essential on your list of supplies. These look similar to emery boards; however they have several different colored panels and appear more like a foam block. You may also want to grab a few bottles of colored polish or polish in French white if you’d like to give yourself a French manicure.

BEFORE FILING OR BUFFING Before you start filing away at your nails, there are a few things you should do first. Be sure to remove all old polish with a gentle finger nail polish remover. Look for those without acetone for the gentlest results. After getting rid of the polish, soak your hands in warm soapy water for ten minutes.

This will soften your nails and skin to allow you to not only buff your nails better but also remove the unwanted cuticle areas. You can make your own homemade hand spa by filling a large bowl with warm water and adding a small amount of scented bath oil to the water. After soaking your hands, be sure to dry them completely.

BUFF AND FILE NAILS THE RIGHT WAY To begin, grab your nail buffer and file your nails as you normally would (rounded, square or oval). With the roughest side of the buffer, start to buff your nails. Use a gently side-to-side motion when doing this. The main purpose of this phase is to smooth out any major ridges your nails may have. Next, use the next roughest side of your buffer and repeat the process. This will further work any ridges out of your nail area. To finish the buffing phase, utilize the smoothest part of the buffer to polish your nails until they shine.

Be sure not to be too rough when you are using the first few sides of the buffer. These are meant to only be used gently on the nails. Being too aggressive can lead to a split or chip in the nail, which is almost always difficult to repair properly.

APPLYING NAIL POLISH AND HAND CARE FINISHING TOUCHES After you’ve successfully buffed your nails, consider taking your homemade manicure to the next level.

Grab your favorite lotion (with or without sun block) and a pair of clean cotton gloves (socks will work if you don’t have gloves). Lather your hands in the lotion, put them into the gloves, and wait for ten minutes. When you pull your hands out, wash and dry them well. You will find they are incredibly natural and soft! Be sure to wipe your nails well, apply a top coat of polish and begin painting them in your desired color. Allow the first coat of polish to set and apply another thin coat. Finish with a top coat and allow it to dry. As you can see, getting beautiful nails doesn’t necessarily require an expensive trip to the salon. So, instead of spending money on artificial acrylic nails this season, consider taking the natural route and doing your nails and toe nails yourself at home!

This month's article courtesy of www.freebeautytips.org

an apple a day december 2013 23

Salt & Pepper Walnuts

by Kim Clinkenbeard, CPT, FNS Nuts are a great way to boost your health because of their omega-3 and fiber content. Roasting nuts makes them crunchier and brings out their flavor. Enjoy them in moderation as a healthy snack.

2 1/2 cups shelled walnut halves Coarse sea salt Coarse black pepper Preheat your oven to 425° F. Line a baking sheet with parchment paper. Spread the nuts evenly on the baking sheet, and sprinkle them with a little sea salt and pepper. Roast the nuts for 5–10 minutes, being careful not to let them burn. You should be able to tell when the nuts are ready by the fragrant smell they produce when roasted.

Leave the nuts to cool slightly before eating, as they will be very hot.

distribution points MIDLAND Albertsons Pharmacy 1002 Andrews Hwy. 4706 N. Midkiff Rd. 3317 N. Midland Dr.

Midland Memorial Hospital Scharbauer Patient Tower 400 Rosalind Redfern Grover Parkway

First Baptist Church 709 N. Lee

Mission Fitness 8050 Hwy. 191

Furr’s Music City Mall

The Odessa Family Y 3001 E. University

Fit Family Fitness 3404 N. Midland Dr.

Midland Memorial Hospital West Campus 4214 Andrews Hwy.

Harmony Health Food Shoppe 3110 E. University Blvd., Ste. A

Flat Belly Organics 3326 N. Midkiff Rd. Graham Pharmacy 1601 W. Wall St. HealthSouth 1800 Heritage Blvd.

HEB Pharmacy 3325 W. Wadley Ave. Midland Memorial Hospital 2200 W. Illinois Ave.

24 december 2013 an apple a day

St. Joseph’s Home Health 24 Smith Rd., Ste. 500 Walgreens Drug Store 330 N. Midland Dr. 215 Andrews Hwy. 4313 Andrews Hwy. ODESSA Albertsons Pharmacy 1350 E. 8th St. 4950 E. 42nd St. 2751 N. County Road W.

Heaven Bound Daycare 507 Elliot HEB Pharmacy 3801 E. 42nd St. Hunt Advertising 3527 Billy Hext Rd. Medical Center Hospital 500 W. 4th St.

Odessa Regional Medical Center 520 E. 6th St. Permian Basin Rehab Center 620 N. Alleghaney River of Life Health Food Shop 2601 N. Grandview Ave. Smith’s Shoes 5101 Twin Towers Super Shapes 5000 E. University Blvd.

University Pharmacy and Medical Supplies 4850 E. University Blvd.

Walgreens Drug Store 801 Maple Ave. 2161 E. 42nd St. 1305 W. University Blvd.

1707 W. 8th St. Walmart Clinic 4210 JBS Parkway 2450 West Loop 338 Wendover Family Medicine 4222 Wendover, Ste. 600 Westview Medical Clinic 1220 W. University Blvd.

Wheatley Stewart Medical Pavilion 574 W. 5th St.

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