MAY 2011
LADIES IN RED
Can’t miss event and can’t miss tips for your heart
Tiffany ARAGONA
With five children and a full plate, Tiffany Aragona manages to do more than just manage her bustling family – she actually enjoys them. Words of wisdom for a beautiful life. MAY 2011
9
EXPERT MOMS
priceless advice on good eats
ACCESSORY REPORT
Shoes, bags, bracelets, necklaces take center stage this season FACE Magazine 1
Health Information Center A free health library for women and their families with over 300 pamphlets, videotapes and DVDs. Additional health information is available through our Health & Wellness Resource Center database. I N F O R M AT I O N I N F O R M AT I O N
A V A I L A B L E
O N
O N Information Available on
A V A I L A B L E
• Abuse • Anatomy • Cancer • Cardiopulmonary • Contraception • Dental Health • Diabetes • Eating Disorders • Exercise • Gastroenterology • Geriatrics • Grief • Gynecology
• HIV/AIDS • Human Sexuality • Hygiene • Infection Diseases • Infertility • Learning Disabilities • Mental Health • Nutrition • Obstetrics • Ophthalmology • Otolaryngology • Parenting Issues • Pediatrics
• Physical Health • Safety/First Aid • Self Esteem • Sexually Transmitted Diseases • Smoking • Social Issues • Sterilization • Stress • Substance Abuse • Urology
Now Available Free information packets for expectant mothers and new moms. Free puberty packets for parents and children, ages 9 - teens. To request free information call (337) 988-1816 or go to www.womansfoundation.com
4630 Ambassador Caffery Parkway • Building A, Suite 100, Lafayette, LA (337) 988-1816 • www.womansfoundation.com • M-F: 9am-5pm
Better sitters today... better parents tomorrow
Understanding your developing body class
Courses prepare students to become safe and effective babysitters.
SAFE SITTERS and TEEN SAFE SITTERS LEARN: What to do when a child chokes
PRE-REGISTRATION REQUIRED
Safety for the sitter
Classes include snacks, lunch and take home materials.
What to do in an emergency How to set up a babysitting business
SAFE SITTER CLASS
How to screen job requests
Two Day for 11-13 yr old (9am-4pm) Fee - $60 per child
How to prevent problem behavior
TEEN SAFE SITTER CLASS
How to manage problem behavior
One Day for 14-16 yr old (9am-4pm) Fee - $45 per child
How to prevent injuries How to manage injuries
A Class for Pre-Teens Separate classes for girls and boys, ages 9-11, to explain how your body is growing, what changes to expect during puberty and how to take care of yourself. Both classes include informal, open discussions, a film and take home materials. Bring your mom or dad! (classes are ongoing) $30 per family
A Class for the mid-teen years This class is for 12-14 year olds. Separate classes explain male and female anatomy, how the reproductive system works, discusses human sexuality, along with disclosures on family and peer relationships. Bring your mom or dad! (classes are ongoing) $30 per family
How to entertain children of different ages Infant and child CPR
For more information regarding class dates and to register online visit www.womansfoundation.com Sponsored by:
A Class for Older Teens This class is for teens only, ages 15-18. Content includes male/female anatomy and physiology, sexual responsibility, sexually transmitted diseases including HIV/AIDS, and how to make healthy choices. $15 per person To register (registration is required) or for more information visit www womansfoundation.com
www.womansfoundation.com I N F O R M AT I O N
A V A I L A B L E
O N
I N F O R M AT I O N
www.womens-children.com
A V A I L A B L E
O N
Woman’s Foundation • 4630 Ambassador Caffery Parkway Building A, Suite 100, Lafayette, LA • (337) 988-1816
4630 Ambassador Caffery Parkway • Building A, Suite 100, Lafayette, LA (337) 988-1816 • www.womansfoundation.com
2 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Gift Certificates Available Christopher R. Hubbell, M.D. Founder & Medical Director a Jeuné and Acadiana Dermatology
Board Certified • Dermatology & DermaSurgery
Ulthera Skin Lifting 337.989.7272 | 913 Sout h Col l eg e, Sui t e 216 | L af ay et t e, L A | w w w.ajeune.c om MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 3
27TH A NNUA L
PROCEEDS BENEFIT
Monday, May 16, 2011 Cajundome Convention Center WINE EXPO 6:00 PM CULINARY COMPETITION 7: 0 0 P M
FOR TICKET INFORMATION CALL
(337) 269-1557 4 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 5
CONTENTS
58 l THE FACE
MAY 2011
With four children at home, Tiffany headed to China just months ago to find the daughter she knew was out there. A look into her unique journey, her crazy/beautiful life and priceless words of wisdom on balancing it all. 12 l BEAUTIFIED
Expert advice from our makeup maven just in time for spring.
21 l GOING RED
The American Heart Association gears up for their Go Red luncheon.
26 l THE PLAY IS THE THING
A one-of-a-kind theater company takes hold in Lafayette. Why this just may be the place for your child to hone those acting chops. And how these kids are learning about more than the art of the stage.
28 l WALK FOR LIFE
The Pregnancy Center offers hope (for free) to pregnant women. How you can help their cause.
30 l WHITE HOT
Lafayette’s breeziest gala rolls out the white carpet for White Linen Night.
34 l THE MOMS HAVE IT
What makes a great mom? We hear from readers of all ages.
40 l FRESH CATCH
The best in extras for the season means bold shoes, killer jewelry and functional (and fun) bags.
50 l WHITE OUT
A pure palate of simple white doesn’t mean boring. How to wear the freshest of hues now.
IN EVERY ISSUE 08 l EDITOR'S DESK 15 l FAMILY MATTERS 17 l HEALTH MATTERS
‘‘
Sometimes it's more important in the middle of the craziness to stop and water the flowers with your kids.” – Tiffany Aragona
32 l COOKIE'S CORNER ON THE COVER Tiffany Aragona Photography by Penny Moore Makeup by Geena LeCorgne with Riverspa CLOTHING by Vanessa V. Boutique, 5520-E Johnston Street 6 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Since day one, we've encouraged our patients to get to know us before they need us. Because each day, we're redefining what patients should expect from a healthcare provider. But don't take our word for it. Heart Hospital of Lafayette has received the First Place Overall Hospital Rating in the NRC Picker national database of specialty hospitals. In other words, our patients are, quite literally, the happiest in the nation. Happy patients would not be possible without positive outcomes and clinical performance. Heart Hospital is recognized by organizations like the Joint Commission for expertise in the treatment of Congestive Heart Failure and gold standard designations from the American Heart Association. Recognitions such as these exemplify the hard work of our people and our dedication to providing the best cardiovascular care. 337-521-1000 / 1105 Kaliste Saloom Road, Lafayette, LA 70508
MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 7
editor’sdesk amanda bedgood
“… in the case of my mother all of the tough stuff life brings seems to only strengthen her resolve and magnify her optimism."
W
hat makes a great mom? It’s a question that no doubt the very best of moms have wondered from the time they see a positive pregnancy test until their children are grown and gone. (Although, they never are really gone.)
The answer, I believe, is different for every mom because every child and every day and every challenge is different. I believe it’s knowing and responding to those differences that is one of the greatest tasks in motherhood. But, I have yet to raise a child of my own and so I’ll tell you what I believe makes my mom, Shirley Jean Clements, a great mom. (I could write a book. Instead, I’ll stick to a few highlights.) I grew up with a woman who believed many things. She believed in God. She believed in us. She believed anything was possible. She taught us, by her actions rather than words, that life is truly what you make it.
And so in this Mother’s Day issue we share the story of Tiffany Aragona. She’s an optimistic mother who looks at her children as a blessing – not a burden. With five total, our cover girl has learned that life, good life, isn’t about having everything perfectly in place, it’s about the time you spend with these children that have been entrusted to you. Sometimes it’s about stopping everything and taking the kids to water the flowers. And all the time it’s about love. When it comes to children there is one organization in Lafayette that’s truly providing a haven for many kids who wouldn’t have another place in the world to go. The Children’s Shelters of Acadiana Youth is just that place and in the next two months they have two fundraisers that are sure to leave their mark. You can read about both on page 30 and check out our fashion on page 50 for looks inspired by the White Linen Night gala to benefit the shelters.
My mom is relentlessly And spring wouldn’t be optimistic. It’s the kind of complete without a look at optimism and attitude that Can’t keep a good woman down. No matter what life brings, my mother has always the extras in fashion, which as I grow older I realize had faith, optimism and the kind of spirit I envy. are, this season, taking center usually fades with age, stage. Whether you’re willing to brave four-inch feather decked experience, tragedy. But, in the case of my mother all of the tough wedges or looking for a demure deck shoe, we’ve got something stuff life brings seems to only strengthen her resolve and magnify in our Accessory Report for every age, taste and occasion. After all, her optimism. being a fabulous woman may be about what’s on the inside, but it And so over the years I’ve watched her again and again walk the sure does make you feel fabulous to have a fabulous handbag and a talk more than she actually did talk. (And boy does she talk.) It’s killer pair of shoes – just ask my mom. a powerful lesson that I hope to pass along to my children. That Amanda Bedgood is the editor of FACE Magazine. Send your fashion inspirations, the stuff on the inside is what matters (although the perfect shade interesting stories and other musings to amanda@facelafayette.com. of lipstick is kind of important too). That money doesn’t buy you anything but stuff (although somebody’s gotta pay for that lipstick). And that God created each of us with great purpose and that real life is about striving to be more like the woman of Proverbs 31 and less about the woman on the cover of a magazine (unless that magazine happens to be FACE, of course.).
“… our cover girl has learned that life, good life, isn’t about having everything perfectly in place, it’s about the time you spend with these children that have been entrusted to you."
8 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
MAY 2011
Vol. 3, No. 11
PRESIDENT & CEO Elizabeth Guillot beth@facelafayette.com EDITOR Amanda Bedgood amanda@facelafayette.com 337.254.8874
a brilliant future
ADVERTISING Carolyn Brupbacher, Manager carolyn@facelafayette.com 337.277.2823 GRAPHIC DESIGN/LAYOUT Mike Bedgood Innovative Digital, LLC mike@inndgtl.com CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Amy Cavanaugh Yvette Quantz Cookie Tuminello CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Penny Moore Mike Bedgood FACE Magazine Mailing Address P. O. Box 52457 Lafayette, Louisiana 70505
~ Pat r i c i a , P J a n d N a N c y ~
On the Web www.facelafayette.com E-mail info@facelafayette.com
oldest
lafayette’s family-owned jewelry store. continuing the tradition for future generations. FACE Magazine is published monthly, and distributed free of charge in bulk to local businesses and offices by FACE Magazine, LLC. No portion of FACE Magazine may be reproduced by any means without the prior written consent of FACE Magazine, LLC. Unsolicited material may not be returned. Material submitted for pay must carry “Submitted at Your Usual Rates”, along with an executed copy of the FACE Magazine, LLC copyright agreement. The owners, publishers, and editors shall not be responsible for loss or injury of any submitted manuscripts, promotional material and/or art. The acceptance of advertising in FACE Magazine does not imply endorsement by FACE Magazine. FACE Magazine reserves the right, without giving specific reason, to refuse advertising if copy does not conform with the editorial policies. FACE Magazine does not necessarily agree with nor condone the opinions, beliefs or expressions of our writers and advertisers. © 2008 FACE Magazine. All Rights Reserved.
MAY 2011
325 Oil Center Dr. l lafayette, la 70503 l 337.233.6975 600 SilverStOne l lafayette, la 70508 l 337.981.7600 www.paulSfinejewelry.COm
FACE Magazine 9
IN theNEWS
H
New Healing House Leaders Installed
many area musicians including Creole Historian and Fiddler D’Jalma Garnier, Zydeco/blues/jazz great Major Handy; and much more. Healing House; Hope for Grieving Children recently installed four new The purpose of this series is to inspire at-risk children and families that members and five new officers to their Board of Directors for the 2011may not have the financial means to recognize or foster a talent or gift. 2012 term. The mission of Healing House is to provide support and education If the financial barrier is removed some of these children may be able to discover and use their talent to flourish and better their lives. for grieving children, Acadiana Outreach Center is seeking volunteers and underwriters for their caregivers and the Acadiana community. this event. For more information, please contact Jill Meaux at 237-7618 Formerly known as the (email outreachpr@gmail.com) or visit AcadianaOutreach.org Grief Center of Southwest Louisiana, Healing House provides a safe place for children to express their grief along side other children experiencing a similar loss. In addition, through their Tragedy New Members from left to right: Tina Guidry, Sonya Tedesco, Response Team, Laurie Foreman and not pictured: Mary Courville. educational speeches, and resource library, they work to better inform the Acadiana community about grief related issues and provide resources to those families that are unable to attend bimonthly support groups. Their vision is that no child grieve alone. For more information New Officers from left to right: Daniel Graffeo – Past President, Louise Lambert – Secretary, Vicky Taylor-Brignac – President, about Healing House’s Rena Cottam – Vice President, Andre’ Broussard – Treasurer. programs and services call 337-234-0443 or go to healing-house.org.
Olympian to Speak at Local Celebration
T
Two-time Olympic medalist, Hollis Conway, has been added to the already inspiring line-up of musicians, artists, dancers, and authors that will be participating in the African-American Cultural Series at Acadiana Outreach throughout the month of June to commemorate Black Music Month. During the month there will be a series of musical performances, art workshops, motivational speakers, authors, and dance performances in the iconic blue mosaic building on the Acadiana Outreach campus all free to the community. Hollis Conway was born in Chicago, Illinois, lived in Detroit and moved to Shreveport, Louisiana where he had an instable home life but he quickly found solace in the athletic arena. He tried basketball and football but it was in the high jump that Hollis found his mark eventually competing in the 1988 Summer Olympics in Seoul, Korea, setting a U.S. collegiate record and earning a silver meda and taking the bronze medal in the 1992 Summer Olympics in Barcelona, Spain. Since he retired from jumping in 2001, Hollis has taken the same drive, dedication and determination that he used to become the number one jumper in the world, to the world of motivational speaking. He will speak at the Acadiana Outreach African-American Cultural Celebration on Saturday, June 18th. In addition to Conway, the series will also feature art Workshops led by renowned artists, Virgie Banks, Adrian Fulton and Bobette Castille; local African-American Authors, Andrea Wren, Theresa Singleton and 7 year old Loren Bellows, to read excerpts from their books and lead discussions; Dr. Jennifer Jackson, from UL’s Diversity Program to lead a motivational workshop; a performance by Ms. Grace Hamilton (former dancer with Alvin Ailey) and the dance troupe from Hamilton School for the Arts; musical performances by
T
Louisiana Art Contest Taps Locals
Two Lafayette students were honored recently during a statewide art contest that garnered pieces from more than 400 Louisiana students. Evan Daigle of Lafayette High School and Samantha Hardy of St. Thomas More were among 16 Louisiana student finalists in the George Rodrigue Foundation Art Contest in New Orleans. The 2011 art contest theme was "Speak Out With Art." Each piece represented an issue important to Louisiana and gave a stance on it. A blind, two-part judging process was used with local celebrity artists, musicians and radio personalities with awards coming in the way of college scholarships and Sixteen students across Louisiana, including two from Lafayette, made the finals in the Rodrigue Foundation Art Contest recently. awards totaling more than $45,000. The Rodrigue Studio on Royal Street in New Orleans displayed the original winning artworks following the close of the competition. Savannah Bridges from Riverfield Academy in Rayfield, Louisiana took home the top prize for her entry, No More. George Rodrigue Foundation of the Arts, founded in 2009, advocates the importance of the visual arts in the development of our youth. GRFA encourages the use of art within all curriculums and supports a variety of art educational programs. For more information about the foundation go to georgerodriguefoundation.org.
T
Locals Earn Awareness Awards
The Louisiana Foundation Against Sexual Assault recognized a local doctor and publication for their efforts to bring awareness to the crime with an award that came during the nation’s Sexual Assault Awareness Month in April. Dr. David Barczyk, a past president of Hearts of Hope, was awarded the Visionary Voice Award for his efforts while FACE Magazine took home the Excellence in Media Award for demonstrating outstanding support of victims’ rights and willingness to educate self and colleagues about sexual assault.
Hearts of Hope Development Director Stephen Wright (right) with Dr. David Barczyk (left).
Hearts of Hope Executive Director Jill Howell Dugas (left) and Development Director (right) with FACE Magazine editor Amanda Bedgood.
10 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
...WEDNESDAY, 18
Go Red for Women luncheon, American Heart Association, Hilton Lafayette, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Call Abigail Lacy for more information at 870-2135194 or email Abigail.lacy@heart.org.
MAY + JUNE
.......THURSDAY, 19
Rhythms on the River. River Ranch Town Square. Marcia Ball (Contemparary Rhytm & Blues).
.............FRIDAY, 20
MAY .......THURSDAY, 12
Rhythms on the River. River Ranch Town Square. Louisiana Red (Variety '50's, '60's, Pop & Cajun).
.............FRIDAY, 13
DTA! 5:30 p.m., Parc International. The Lee Boys. 1st Annual Bread Pudding Taste Off, 5:30 p.m. with food and beverage concessions and musical performances from 6 to 8:30 p.m. Pour it OUT for PASA wine tour in River Ranch, Friday, May 13 at 6:30 p.m. New additions to this year's event include being the first to showcase POUR, Chef Jude Tauzin of Village Cafe's newest
hotspot for wine connoisseurs. Four PASA patrons showcasing their homes where guests will be entertained by live musicians and indulge in fine wine and gourmet food provided by Glazers's of Louisiana and Village Cafe. Tickets are $100 per person and are available for purchase online at www.pasaonline. org or by calling PASA at 237-2787.
.......SATURDAY, 14
Walk for Babies for March of Dimes, River Ranch Town Square, 8 a.m. Call Jamie Crain at 233-8476 for more information. “Living History Day” at Alexandre Mouton House with a Civil War Encampment sponsored by the Mouton Camp 778-Sons of Confederate Veterans Pelican Battery Living History
Unit – Opelousas. They will have historians speaking and displaying infantry, artillery and civilian items from the War between the States. This event is free to the public and will be held Saturday, May 14 10 a.m. until 4 p.m. at 1122 Lafayette Street. At 3 p.m., the Alexandre Mouton House will host guest speaker, Dr. Julia Frederick, Director of UL Honors Program. Dr Frederick will speak on the “Lost Colony of the Confederacy,” a book by Eugene Harter.
.........MONDAY, 16
Acadiana Culinary Classic to benefit Hearts of Hope, 7 p.m. Cajundome Convention Center. Tickets are $100. theheartsofhope.org.
DTA! 5:30 p.m., Parc International. Grupo Fantasma (Latin Funk) with food and beverage concessions and musical performances from 6 to 8:30 p.m. White Linen Night, Children’s Shelters of Acadiana, City Club. For more information go to thechildrensshelters. org.
.......THURSDAY, 26
Justice for Grillin’ benefitting MS, River Ranch Town Square, 3 to 8 p.m. Contact Billy Domingue at 267-2342 for more information.
.............FRIDAY, 27
DTA! 5:30 p.m., Parc International. Horace Trahan & the Ossun Express (Zydeco/Cajun) with food and beverage concessions and musical performances from 6 to 8:30 p.m.
INTRODUCING
JUDITH LEIBER
LUXURY JEWELRY COLLECTION
Exclusively at
Interiors • Unique Gifts • Men & Women Accessories 923 Harding Street I Oil Center I 237.0205
MAY 2011
9:00-6:00 Monday-Friday
9:30-6:00 Saturday
337-984-7749
FACE Magazine 11
Whether you’re looking for super lush or naturally beautiful, there’s a science in choosing the right mascara. (Hint: It’s all in the wand.) Makeup maven Geena LeCorgne breaks it down for us.
I've been getting a lot of questions about mascara lately. With so many product lines on the market, selecting a mascara that works for you can be a little cumbersome. Unfortunately, unlike a foundation or a lipstick, testing mascara just isn't as easy. It's not like you can wipe it off if you don't like it. Putting it on the lashes is one thing - but as we all know - taking it off is a messy job. So, what is the best way to make a mascara selection? My co-worker, Stacy and I had a long talk about this topic just recently. Stacy: Do I even need to wear mascara? Geena: No, you don't. Some girls are perfectly happy without it, but mascara definitely enhances the most important
feature on our face – the eyes. The reality is that most women are not born with long, thick luxurious lashes. Mascara helps create that look. Stacy: There are so many different mascara products on the market. How do I know which one is the right product for me? Geena: It's very important that you incorporate your lifestyle and environment in the selection. Obviously, in south Louisiana, the heat and humidity play a big role in the type of mascara that you wear. If you're a busy mom or busy professional, you'll want to select a mascara that's easy to apply, gives you good coverage and dries quickly. And, for the single girl who enjoys
Story by Geena LeCorgne
a flirtier, glamorous look, a rich, thick luxurious mascara is a good choice. Stacy: So where do I start? How do I know which mascara actually delivers what they pitch? Geena: Forget the product line and the formula. Start with the type of mascara brush. It's important to know the characteristics of your own eyelashes so it'll be easier to find the mascara brush types that suit you best. Stacy: I had no idea! How many different mascara brush types are there? Geena: Lots of them. In choosing brush types of mascaras, remember that long
©iStockphoto.com/studio22comua
12 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
BEAUTYMATTERS geenalecorgne
bristles achieve a better lash definition, while shorter ones are good for thick applications. Let me explain:
smudges or smears. When using mascara brush types with rubber bristles, the coat should be applied only once, from root to tip.
Curved Mascara Brush Types - cause the lash to curl and lift. Proper application is done by moving the brush with the mascara from the outer lash to the inner lash, while sweeping the curved brush slowly from the root to the tip of the lashes. The curved mascara brush types strive for smudge-proof lashes that are visually stunning.
“… long bristles achieve a better lash definition, while shorter ones are good for thick applications.”
Lash Comb Mascara Brush Types - cause a defined separation for your lashes that look thick at the base and have sun-like rays toward the end. Using the lash comb types of mascara brushes, comb your lashes from root to tip. By doing this, a very daring and open-eyed lash curl is then achieved through these types of mascara brushes.
Geena: That depends on how old they are. Mascara is one makeup product that you want to keep tabs on. It's a breeding ground for bacteria. Most mascaras with a tube and a wand have an antibacterial agent in them that last about 6 weeks making you safe for at least a couple months and likely safe up to 4. You risk eye infection the longer you keep the product. If you notice the smell changes or the texture changes, throw it out. It's not worth it.
Flexible Mascara Brush Types - allow the brush to move freely and reach the root of the lashes deeper than conventional mascara brush types.
Stacy: Do you suggest any particular product line? I know you said to focus on the brush more than the formula, but are the more expensive department store mascaras better than the drugstore brands?
Mascara Brush Types with Rubber Bristles - aim to layer individual lashes evenly, even the areas of your eyes that are hard to reach by normal brush types of mascaras. The rubber bristles create eyelashes that look as if each one is uniformly separated from the other without having clumps,
Geena: Absolutely! Keep a rubber bristle waterproof mascara in your beauty bag for outside activities and a curved brush mascara for evening events.
Stacy: I like to play with different looks, so should I buy a couple of different mascaras to best achieve those looks?
different mascaras. Should I throw them all out and just start over?
Geena: Sometimes you're paying for the name rather than the quality. What most women don't know is that a lot of makeup products are manufactured in the same warehouses with the same ingredients. It really does come down to personal preference at the end of the day. The
»
Stacy: I have to admit; I have a drawer full of
20% - 50% OFF Storewide SALE Saturday, May 14 – Saturday, May 21
Bc footwear
The BC girl has a style of her own!
Rabbitfoot Tan & Mustard $80
Rabbitfoot Black $80
Knot Cognac $60
Danke Ricebag - Multi $30
331 HEYMANN BLVD • OIL CENTER • 233-5000 I N T E R I O R S
MAY 2011
•
G A R D E N
A C C E S S O R I E S
•
P R E S E N T S
9:00-6:00 Monday-Friday
Ladybug Nude & Cognac $80
9:30-6:00 Saturday
Sizes Avaiable 6-10
337-984-7749
FACE Magazine 13
geenalecorgne
BEAUTYMATTERS
best thing about buying from a department store, spa or beauty product store like Ulta or Sephora is that you can actually try the product on. They have disposable mascara wands that you can use. I always say test before you buy. Many companies will give you a small sample to use. Wait 24 hours and if the product works for you, then make the investment. Stacy: And what about eyelash curlers? Do you curl your lashes before you put your mascara on or after? I have friends who do both. Geena: You should never curl your lashes after you've applied mascara. It'll damage them or pull them out altogether. There's a reason there's products like Latisse on the market. Many women have learned the hard way that it's very important to pamper your eyelashes the same way you pamper the rest of your skin. Curl your lashes by gently applying pressure count for 30 seconds and release. You can use a mascara comb or brush to separate the lashes before you apply the mascara, or just apply the mascara immediately thereafter. Gentle is the word. Stacy: So, what's the best way to remove mascara? Geena: Again - everyone has their own
preference. Personally, I use eye makeup removal cloths. And when I don't have any of those handy, I remove it with Vaseline and a lukewarm washcloth. The most important thing is that you remove your mascara daily. Be gentle and careful not to pull or tug on the
“Keep a rubber bristle waterproof mascara in your beauty bag for outside activities and a curved brush mascara for evening events.” lashes or the eye area. This can cause sagging and of course, the loss of lashes. Stacy: One last thing, what about color? Should I use black, brown, blue? Geena: For a natural look, the best rule of thumb is to always choose a color that matches your eyebrows. For nighttime, most women can get away with a rich black. And blue is always fun to wear, especially at night.
It makes the white of your eyes standout. Mascara is definitely a key product in creating an overall balanced make-up look. The secret to proper application is to take the time to apply it carefully and gently. Less is always more, so use it sparingly at first until you are completely familiar with the way the product responds to your lashes. Most women only need a single coat to get a natural look, but it's perfectly okay to apply more than one coat for a special occasion, just be sure to practice that look before the night of the event. Clumpy lashes are never glamorous and running mascara is never okay. I hope the next time you go to buy mascara, you remember that the magic is truly "in the wand." Select your wand intelligently, and you'll look like a queen day and night. Geena LeCorgne is an easthetician and professional makeup artist working at Riverspa. E-mail her your makeup questions at geenalecorgne@aol.com or give her a call at Riverspa for a lesson on the best look for you - no matter how little time you have each day.
Valid through 6/27/11
902 Coolidge Blvd. • Oil Center • 337-232-8827 www.piecesofeightgifts.com 14 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
FAMILYMATTERS
Moms, be moms Why keeping your kids happy with you doesn’t equal healthy for them
E
verybody (but perhaps especially women) wants to be liked. Most people also want to steer clear of conflict and avoid hurting someone’s feelings. This desire for approval and acceptance extends to parenting, too, in that every parent would like to be their child’s best friend. Who wouldn’t want a relationship with a child where they hear, “my mom or dad is my best friend!” However, the reality is, being your child’s friend over his parent doesn’t work. Moreover, there are times when keeping your child “happy with you” should be the least of your concerns. Many parents feel that if they bring up
their children as best friends or equals, they will be better able to understand them, be closer to them, share secrets or get more information from them, and be liked and loved in all aspects of their
“. . . the reality is, being your child’s friend over his parent doesn’t work.”
SHOES
MAY 2011
Parenting is about balance, and the best parenting involves finding the balance between warmth and firmness. We as parents have many roles: nurturer, protector, teacher, disciplinarian, lifecoach, and yes, friend. Learning the balance between the roles is key, as some children need to see more of one role than another, or more of one role at a different time or age.
How do you know when you’ve crossed the line from parent to friend? FriendParents let their kids do whatever they relationship. Unfortunately, too much want because there are fewer arguments desire for a child’s acceptance or “liking” this way. Friend-Parents talk about adult can lead to permissiveness, indulgence issues with their children, using them as and disrespect.
CLOTHING vanessavboutique.com
amycavanaugh
ACCESSORIES
»
SELECT STYLES UP TO SIZE 18
337.504.4467 LOCATED ON JOHNSTON BETWEEN BAILEY’S & MICHAEL’S ARTS & CRAFTS Photos by amypeacockphotography.com
FACE Magazine 15
amycavanaugh
FAMILYMATTERS
a confidant (a particular risk for divorcing decisions and runs the show. or separating parents). Friend-Parents This is not at all to say you can’t have place their children’s wants ahead of their fun with or enjoy your child; of course you children’s needs in hopes of becoming a can. In fact, you will have more fun and “favorite parent.” Some of the parent vs. friend confusion stems from a misunderstanding about discipline, that discipline equals punishment, or being “mean.” On the contrary, positive discipline is about teaching skills and demonstrating natural, fair consequences (including good ones like praise and rewards!) that follow behavior. Children feel safe when they are provided limits, routines and structure, and children who feel safe and cared for by in-charge, respectful, emotionally available adults are happier children. Although a three-year-old might act like she wants to be the boss of the grownups in her life, in reality that’s a very scary place to be. Your child needs to be able to count on you as the one who makes
“… the best parenting involves finding the balance between warmth and firmness.”
doing any of those things. A good rule of thumb is to be Parent first, and Friend last. If you spend the time parenting your child when he or she is young, you will be able to enjoy an adult friendship later with a person you will actually enjoy being around. Amy Cavanaugh, Ph.D., is a clinical psychologist with Center for Psychiatric Studies and the infant mental health consultant for the Healthy Start Program of the Family Tree.
enjoyment with a child who respects you and knows what to expect from you. Kids need parents and want boundaries. When a kid’s parent acts like her friend, she actually loses a parent in the process. Who can she count on to show her healthy limits? Who can he depend on to show him the right way when he’s done wrong? Who will be there to both forgive and teach when she makes a mistake? A parent who acts like a friend isn’t
20% - 50% STOREWIDE SALE
NEW INTRODUCING bareMinerals
®
SKINCARE
Experience the extraordinary results of bareMinerals Skincare and get that famous bareMinerals Naturally Luminous glow.
Lafayette and Youngsville Locations Excluding Make-up and Skincare Lines
Lafayette Location
Youngsville Location
337-984-5161 504 Guilbeau Rd
M-W 10-5 • Th-F 10-6 • Sa 10-5
337-856-9523
bare Minerals • smashbox • glo mineral
810 St. Blaise Ln. M-F 10-5 • Sa 10-3
16 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
HEALTHMATTERS
Expert Moms
yvettequantz
9 tips on keeping the family healthy In honor of all the busy moms out there, this month I have interviewed dietitians who are mothers themselves and also work in the field of health and wellness. My question to them was “How do you manage to stay healthy and sane while still managing a busy schedule of work, family, and fun?” Here is some of the feedback I received; I hope it inspires you with some fresh ideas!
»
Is it time to
Refresh your LOOK? “ I wanted a plastic surgeon that would make my overall transformation look natural, after all, my face is the presentation of me.” - Naomi
Facial Rejuvenation Surgery performed by Dr. J. Kevin Duplechain
J. Kevin Duplechain, MD, FACS MAY 2011
1103 Kaliste Saloom Road | Suite 300 | Lafayette, LA | 70508
FACE Magazine 17
HEALTHMATTERS
yvettequantz
�
“As a busy mom of three children, one with autism, I can tell you balancing life while staying positive can be a challenge. However these are a few tips that I have found to work: 1. Make Sunday a cooking day- We (yes the kids help!) spend about 4 hours on Sunday preparing healthy meals for the week. This way, I am not forced to cook every evening of the week while we are dealing with work, extracurricular activities, therapy and homework. 2. Look for a fitness center that has childcare- as a single mom, I am unable to just take a run outside or break away in the evening for exercise. Having a gym that has a childcare center has made it possible for me to run while having the kids in a place that is fun and safe. The other way I stay physically active is by waking up early and hopping on my own treadmill- on the days when I know the evening won't work. 3. Include the kids- one of our favorite activities in my house is dancing. We prepare meals together then after dinner we turn the music on, clean up together and start dancing. We all LOVE this activity. It makes cleaning up fun and physically active. That's my life and it is the best way I have found to manage our busy schedule and keep us healthy!”
Heather R Mangieri, MS, RD, CSSD, LDN Board Certified Specialist in Sports Dietetics Spokesperson, The American Dietetic Association Owner/Nutrition Consultant, NutritionCheckUP, LLC Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
18 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
�
“#1 Tip: Incorporate healthy living activities into your everyday routine. Instead of adding to your already busy schedule, try to make your daily routine more health-minded.” Kati Mora, MS, RD Owner - Mora Nutrition Mt Pleasant, Michigan
yvettequantz
�
�
HEALTHMATTERS
My number one staying sane tip has to be cooking all or part of a meal and freezing it ahead of time. When life presents itself unexpectedly during the day, I have a back-up plan for dinner that evening. It keeps me from making that ‘less nutritious than my own cooking’ to-go call!”
� Sandi Graham, RD, LD
“Whatever you think is important must be made non-negotiable. For example, once I decided that sleeping seven hours per night and lifting weights twice weekly was non-negotiable, I found a way to do it. I never miss my weight training sessions (though now and then I have to cut them short by a few minutes) and I rarely sleep less than seven hours. For years, I've been telling my patients that regular exercise and three meals per day are non-negotiable. They are always successful when they see it that way.” Jill Weisenberger, MS, RD, CDE Owner, All That Nutrition Virginia
»
NEW FRENCH SHIPMENT HAS ARRIVED! French Buffets, Mirrors, Chandeliers, Art, Old Paris, Terra Cotta Santons, Faience, Lamps & Religious Objects
Serving Lunch Daily 902 HARDING STREET In the Oil Center • LAFAYETTE • 337.234.1116 MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 19
yvettequantz
HEALTHMATTERS
O
“On my grocery list, I add the items I NEED in my diet in order to be healthy (i.e. my favorite yogurts, whole grain cereal, nuts, dried fruit). I also make time during the week to exercise with my girlfriends – that way I am not always “lunching” or “eating” when I see them but rather catch up over a game of tennis or a run.”
� �
“My #1 nutrition tip for busy RD moms is to eat breakfast as a family. It shouldn't take more than 15 or 20 minutes to put together a healthful and delicious breakfast. If your kids get involved by at least setting and clearing the table, pouring the milk, putting whole grain waffles in the toaster or pouring whole grain cereal in a bowl, you'll save time while staying connected. That'll fill your bellies and rev up your brain to get a good jump start to the day. AND you'll be showing by example that breakfast is important and by the choices you make, it can be healthful, nutritious, and taste delicious too!” Elisa Zied, MS, RD, CDN Founder/President, Zied Health Communications, LLC Creator New York, New York
“Just say NO my plate is full. And then make a sandwich. Sandwich your no between two positives. Positive – No – Positive. For example Positive: “I am so happy you trust me to do this for you” No: “But I have to say no my plate is full.” Positive: “Who else can I think of to help you?”
�
Toby Amidor, MS RD CDN Food and Nutrition Consultant Nutrition Expert, FoodNetwork.com New York, New York
My favorite piece of advice has to be what I received from Gita Patel, a dietitian from Etan, New Hampshire. Gita shared with me some wisdom her mother had passed along to her. It is something we can all learn and grow from, no matter where you are in life, it is never too late to learn how to incorporate this wise piece of advice into your life. “I have learned this from my mother who passed away last June at the age of 98. She always told me I am a very special and important individual, so I needed to take care of myself first, so that I would be able to give of myself to others and care for my loved ones. She would tell me you cannot give what you do not have. Health was always her first priority. Unfortunately I am a slow learner, but now at the age of 62 I get it.”
Chere Bork, MS RD LN Health and Life Balance Enthusiast, National Speaker, Wellcoach, Nutrition Entrepreneur's Coaches Specialty Chair
As for myself, I would say my one piece of advice would be to schedule dates. Schedule dates for grocery shopping and cooking, schedule dates and times for fitness (with friends and for some alone time), schedule dates with your children and have fun with your family, schedule dates with your husband, and finally make sure to schedule dates with yourself. Find time to be alone and organize your thoughts. Clear the clutter in your mind and on your “to do” list by finding some time for peace and quit. Write out your priorities. Delegate where needed and realize you do not have to DO everything. Ask for help when needed. Yvette Quantz, LD, RD, CLT, is a Lifestyle and Sports Nutritionist and owner of Food Therapy, LLC. E-mail her at yvette@foodtherapyonlin.com and get more information about Food Therapy at www.foodtherapyonline.com.
Gita Patel MS RD CDE LD CLT Vegetarian Diabetes Educator
20 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
I
Good Food
Loving food AND eating right … it can be done, ladies Story by Amanda Bedgood
The only turkey neck I want to see is at Thanksgiving. everyone wants to look and feel confident and beautiful at every stage of life. diet and exercise can change your general appearance but only facial plastic surgery can change your face. at acadian facial plastic surgery center, our double board certified doctors bring all the latest anti-aging technologies to focus exclusively on your face. We combine extensive knowledge, expert surgical skills and advanced minimally invasive procedures to renew and rejuvenate your appearance. most importantly, our doctors produce natural results that allow your own beauty to shine without appearing “done” or artificial. Find out why Acadian Facial Plastic Surgery Center should be your choice for a lifetime of facial health. Call 237-0650.
mid-facelift • mini-facelift • neck liposuction
bradley chastant, md, facs • jeffrey joseph, md, facs
short-scar facelift 1000 MAY 2011
w. pinhook rd, suite
201C •
lafayette
•
for faCial plastiC surgery, Call
board certified facial plastic surgeons board certified otolaryngologists 237-0650 •
for skin Care, Call
234-6193 FACE Magazine 21
This article is all about eating healthy. Wait! Don’t turn the page. And don’t roll your eyes. Because we’re not talking about dieting. Seriously. Louisiana cookbook author Holly Clegg explains her unique approach to putting the good stuff in your body without giving up all those foods you love. Her unique look at food will give you hope for getting healthy no matter how little time you have or how much you love food. And on May 18 she’ll be hitting the stage at the Go Red luncheon for the American Heart Association to inspire women in Acadiana. Read on to learn about Lafayette’s can’t-miss lunch for ladies and why Holly just may become your go-to gal for recipes. Holly Clegg is a busy gal. Her resume is extraordinary – filled with cookbooks and endorsements and spokesperson gigs and TV appearances. And yet, she finds time to stay healthy. And she wants you to do the same. Her philosophy is so simple it may leave you wondering ‘What’s the catch?’
and heart disease remains the number one killer of women. In fact, 75 cents of every healthcare dollar goes toward battling chronic disease of which being obese or overweight are major risk factors.
The recipes stick to one page and Holly works to stay in touch with what people want. After all, it doesn’t matter how fabulous a recipe may be – if it’s hard people aren’t going to do it.
“We want to feel better and be healthier,” Holly says. “And that’s what I’m about.”
“I don’t believe in diets,” she says simply. “You don’t ever have to give up any foods. I love food and don’t want to give up good foods … you can have everything in my philosophy. I trim recipes down and keep them terrific. It’s a lifestyle.”
Holly’s recipes are often short and always
“I’m passionate about cooking. I love to cook,” Holly says. “I’m sharing my passion for cooking but making a difference in people’s lives by making them a little bit healthier.” But, Holly is far more than someone who simply loves to cook. She has a bevy of cookbooks under her belt and dozens of other avenues in which she spreads her unique approach to food. And most recently was recognized as one of the top 25 chefs in Louisiana. It’s a title she doesn’t tout, though. In fact, she’s hesitant (despite attending Cordon Bleu) to use the word chef with herself.
“I only put ingredients that are in your kitchen or you can buy in one place because time takes precedence over anything.”
When it comes to dieting, Holly points to the reality that eliminating certain foods will equal weight loss. It’s loss that turns to gain just as soon as you start eating those foods again. “There’s a million diet books on the market and you have to give up something,” she says. “It’s truly modifying lifestyle –
have common ingredients. “Everybody is very busy. I put the least amount of ingredients for the most flavor,” she says. What results are recipes that are as delicious
Check out Holly Clegg’s website at HollyClegg.com where you can find a bevy of recipes and tools for the kitchen no matter how little time (or expertise) you have. Holly is the author of a slew of cookbooks including “Too Hot In the Kitchen: Secret To Sizzle At Any Age with 200 Simple and Sassy Recipes” along with cookbooks for eating right while diabetic, fighting cancer and perhaps most alluring for the Lafayette ladies – quick recipes straight from the gulf.
that’s what it’s about.” She says her approach is about having a healthy heart – not about being thin. “Feeling good and having energy and good health,” she says. It’s something that can be hard to come by as obesity rates tip the scales across the country
as they are easy to do – even for the cooking impaired among us. “It’s all practical. The number one comment is all the ingredients are in the house,” she says. “I only put ingredients that are in your kitchen or you can buy in one place because time takes precedence over anything.”
“I’m very passionate about it and believe what I do anybody can do,” Holly says of cooking. “I have tailored how I write my cookbook for everyone because everyone is busy.” But, no matter how busy you are this month (trust us) taking time for the Go Red luncheon is well worth it. It’s an inspirational experience sure to leave you ready to get heart healthy and, this year, leave you equipped to do it yourself in your own kitchen. The Go Red luncheon is May 18 at the Lafayette Hilton with info sessions beginning at 10 a.m. followed by lunch with speaker Holly Clegg. Tickets are $50 each and can be purchased online until May 13. For more information about the event contact Abigail Lacy at abigail.lacy@heart.org or (870) 2135194. To learn more about the Go Red for Women movement, recipes, ways to help and valuable tools to get heart healthy go to the American Heart Association site at heart.org.
22 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
You Can Have Straight Teeth by Your
“You don’t ever have to give up any foods. I love food and don’t want to give up good foods."
Wedding Day
Watermelon and Feta Salsa An unusual combination, yet, one of my summer favorites with sweet watermelon, fresh mint, salty olives, and feta bursting with sweet and salty in each mouthful. – Holly
SmilesB yS oileau.com
183 Days to a Makes 16 (1/4) cup servings 4 cups chopped watermelon 1/2 cup chopped red onion 1/3 cup crumbled reduced-fat feta cheese 1/4 cup chopped fresh mint 2 tablespoons chopped Kalamata olives 2 tablespoons NAKANO seasoned rice vinegar 2 teaspoons olive oil
Great Smile! Photo taken May 11, 2010
1. In small bowl mix together all ingredients. Serve. Spicy Advice: Try the NAKANO red pepper seasoned rice vinegar for a little extra zing. Raid a salad bar for fresh Kalamata olives - it makes a difference. Nutritional information per serving: Calories 29 Calories from fat 36% Fat 1g Saturated Fat 0g
MAY 2011
Cholesterol 1mg Sodium 98mg Carbohydrate 4g Dietary Fiber 0g
Sugars 3g Protein 1g Dietary Exchanges: 1/2 fruit
Photo taken Nov 9, 2010
Tony Soileau DDS • Family Dentistry 1144 Coolidge Blvd • Oil Center • 337-234-3551 FACE Magazine 23
GOODFOOD
Undercover Connoisseur Trynd
I
t was one of those days that led to the desire for not just another evening. I was lamenting the experiences of what had been a rather trying day/ week to a dear and trusted friend and expressed my longings for something culinarily exceptional. With a quick smile, that was immediately healing, I was given an unequivocal recommendation to try one of Lafayette’s newest dining experiences. As I was unfamiliar with the name “Trynd”, I also mentioned that when life seemed a bit “heavy” there was always something comforting with something Italian. To my delight, there was a resounding reinforcement to the initial recommendation, as Trynd was the latest trend in local Italian fare. Armed with an appetite and a desire for an evening to remember, I ventured to 116 East Vermillion Street, downtown Lafayette. As I approached I was immediately awed by the obviously old two-story building, located at
the address. There seemed to be multiple layers in which to enjoy and experience the vivacious ambiance of the establishment. As the weather was beginning to warm, I opted to dine in the main dining room (though, in retrospect, the gentle breezes that evening would have made for a delightful outside endeavor). Personally, I prefer table to bar side dining and opted for a table in the main dining room; however, the bar in the main dining area seemed as intimate and service friendly as the table options. Something I will remember, when I return on a busier evening. There was also an eclectic mix gently filling the air musically. When I am engaged in conversation, it is always nice to pause and realize there is great music not trying to kill the conversation. Such was the case this particular evening. Having touched on “service”, the entire staff at Trynd gets props, before I go into anything else of the incredible Trynd experience. It is very rare for “normal” people to be made to feel like royalty.
They did it effortlessly at Trynd with acute attentiveness to every detail, without any sense of over bearing. I will return to Trynd for a host of reasons. The atmosphere was aesthetically pleasing. The décor of chandeliers, dark wood flooring, brick and marble walls, intriguing artwork, glass beaded columns, crisp white tablecloths and dark wood accents conveyed a sense of elegance. To say the least, I was quite content savoring my expertly crafted martini, listening to good music and pondering such a cerebral menu. While there was a distinctive Italian connotation, the overall context was well beyond that and my expectations. As I awaited my appetizer selection, I was treated to bread sticks and freshly baked bread with a zesty virgin olive oil and seasoning dip. It was a good starter, but the appetizer was tres magifique. As narrow minded as it may seem, one of the many ways I judge an Italian restaurant is by the quality of their beef car-
24 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
GOODFOOD explosion of deliciousness onto the palate. It was an appetizer to remember and a portent of the wonder of the meal to follow. As those of you that follow my culinary crusade have come to appreciate (and rumor has it that there are those that follow my monthly escapades), I enjoy dining … and I enjoy dining with others. Not only does it enhance the essence of sharing conversation, it allows the opportunity to share other’s selections. On this particular evening, I also got to taste the crab cake appetizer. This was another ‘WOW” and worthy of a recommended must try. It wasn’t the traditional crab cake, as the crabmeat wasn’t lost in some overly breaded pastry. Instead, the lump crabmeat 116 East Vermillion was delicately assembled and Downtown Lafayette positioned on top of a crisp po337-235-9154 • trynd.com lenta cake. This amazing combination was then garnished paccio. In the case of Trynd, I would have to venture across the Atlantic with a flamboyant Creole mustard sauce that gave an amazing accent to recall a better serving. The thinly Biz Card Document Size 3.625 x 2.125 to in) the dish. The lump crabmeat was (Durel wants the 1/16” bleed built sliced beef was wonderfully fresh Object/Crop Area/Make: to make pdf that will CROP Artboard size and seasoned, garnished with white creamy in its delivery and provided truffle oil and parmigiano cheese a delicate contrast to the texture of and served on a bed of baby arugula. the polenta base. The tart and tangy The first (and last) bite created an mustard sauce complimented the light sweetness of the foundations.
Trynd
While the mustard was definitely present it was still so subtle not to overwhelm the crab (nor polenta). This intelligent combination allowed all of the flavors and textures to come together magnificently. As you might expect, the main course selection was more than a challenge. However, by the time I needed to make that decision, the world was already a better place for me, simply because of the time I had spent in Trynd. As usual I was torn between several entree selections. I ultimately opted for the pan-seared redfish that was served on capota with lemon caper butter sauce and topped with lump crabmeat. Not only was it exquisite in its artistry of presentation, it was awesome in its combination of flavors and textures. The fish, with its crab and sauce topping, was beautifully presented atop an eggplant and string bean base. The fish was also perfectly seared to capture the juices within and provide a textural structure to enhance the essence of the dish. The elements of succulent fresh crab and caper butter garnish blended well with the base and made this dish another must try. Because there were so many de-
lectable options, the dessert choices posed another challenge. It is always nice to have many good things from which to choose. After careful deliberation, I picked the bread pudding broscata … an Italian twist to an old Louisiana staple. This bread pudding was lightly baked with a crispier surface than the French bread variety, contained little bits of fruit and was garnished with an Irish whiskey cream sauce. This dessert would have been wonderful without the sauce, but was absolutely magical with it. If you struggle with your dessert choice, this comfort food is a “win-win” proposition. Trynd has captivated the interest and taste buds with its panache and style. It offers fantastic cuisine in an array of dining options – the main dining area, patio dining and a cigar friendly venue. I encourage you to explore the offerings of this incredible restaurant for yourself and, when you get there be sure to tell them that I piqued your interest. In the meantime, they also have a well designed website so that you can get a feel in advance TryndCafe.com.
Allure
ENHANCEMENT CENTER
Cindy Cobb, DNP—Nurse Practitioner Sangeeta Shah, M. D.—Medical Director
Our May Special Buy A $100 Gift Certificate And Get A $25 Gift Certificate FREE [Use For Yourself Or As A Gift — No Purchase Limits] Just In Time For Mother’s Day & Graduation
NINE WEST • ME TOO • YELLOWBOX • RAMPAGE • SEASONL WHISPERS
• STEVE MADDEN • VANELI • DOLCE VITA • MATISSE • MODA •
The boutique experience without the boutique price.
Skin Care Products • Microdermabrasion • Permanent Cosmetics • Massages • Botox • Facials Teeth Whitening • Spray Tans • Tattoo Removal • Skin Classic • Spider Vein Treatments B12 Injections • Dysport • Restylane • Juvederm • Radiesse • Chemical Peels • Latisse
1721 W. Pinhook ~ Lafayette ~ www.allureenhancement.com 337. 412 . 6334 ~ Walkins Welcome MAY 2011
H O B O • B I G B U D D H A • B C B G • N O T R AT E D • C A R L O S S A N TA N A
tit Bon Appé
imelda’s 3810 Ambassador Caffery Pkwy 337-406-8400 • mon-sat 10-6 • sun 12-5
FACE Magazine 25
Drama Kids One youth theater group is bringing major drama to Lafayette without all that drama Photo by Penny Moore • Story by Amanda Bedgood
CYT production of You’re a Good Man, Charlie Brown was a major hit earlier this year. Pictured are Greer Naudin as Lucy with piano playing Schroeder played by Dean Yarborough.
SUMMER LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT.
Make a Splash in a New Suit from Get Wet
Warm-weather accessories are sailing in, perfect finishing touches for summer dresses.
Great for Graduation
KNOTTINGHILL WOMEN'S CLOTHING • SHOES • ACCESSORIES
MAIN STREET • NEXT TO ZOE’S IN RIVER RANCH • 337.504.4720
3229 Ambassador Caffery Lafayette, LA 70506 337-981-7946 M-Th 10-7 • F-Sat 10-6 • Sun 1-5 www.getwetshop.com
26 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Showbiz, it seems as of late, especially for the young, is quite the train wreck. With all that dancing and singing and acting often come negative pressures and the dreaded stage parents. The really great news is that around these parts your kids can actually enjoy the good stuff that is showbiz without the drama. CYT, a national organization that a Lafayette couple brought to the area only two years ago, is booming thanks to a killer combination of fantastic performances and even better backstage behavior. “It’s a great environment to get positive input in their lives and we want to put on an excellent show at the same time,” says CYT founder Patti Broussard. “It’s very important for us to have the best show.” And they are succeeding. Since discussions began to bring Christian Youth Theater to Lafayette they have produced five shows with Beauty and the Beast slated for May 7 through 10. The shows truly are entertaining quality productions. In the interest of full disclosure I must admit I first heard about CYT from a dear friend/mother of two. She lured me to their production of Annie last year and I was blown away. “We try to pick good family shows,” Patti says. The foundation of the program is the Christian faith with rehearsals kicking off after worship and lessons learned covering more than singing, dancing and acting. “We have high moral standards for teachers sand directors,” Patti says. “We teach the kids how to have character and how to treat people. That’s where the Christian part comes in – how to treat people.” Part of that means treating the star of the show just like a member of the chorus, Patti says.
“A lot of quiet kids come and really step out of their box and become different kids because they found a place where they feel comfortable and accepted …”
“We treat the shows like that the person that’s Belle is just as important as someone who is a plate or napkin,” she says. “ You may be the star this time and be in the chorus next time. Kids realize it doesn’t really matter what your role is and they want to be involved. You don’t have to be the star to have fun and learn.”
As a result, kids who might otherwise be in the background are discovering they actually are stars. “A lot of quiet kids come and really step out of their box and become different kids because they found a place where they feel comfortable and accepted and we’re excited by those testimonies,” Patti says. CYT productions are for children ages 8 and older while younger children can participate in classes that are a combo of singing, dancing or crafts that get them ready for the stage. “At the end of 10 weeks they do a mini performance. Something they’ve learned in their class. It gets them up and singing and over the stage fright,” Patti says. This summer three camps are slated for July with 4 to 7 year olds participating in a half day Lion King camp, ages 8 to 11 will have the Wizard of Oz and ages 12 to 18 will have something akin to Glee (but 100 percent clean.) For more information about the production of Beauty and the Beast and to buy tickets go to cytlafayette.org where you’ll also find info on the summer camps.
Beauty and the Beast May 7 – 10 at Angelle Auditorium Saturday – 7 p.m. • Sunday – 3 p.m. and 7 p.m. Monday – 7:00pm • Tuesday – 11:30 a.m.
Tickets are $11 online and $13 at the door. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 27
Walk rugs
For 25 years one organization in Lafayette has been offering hope to moms-to-be. Thousands of pregnant women have walked through the door of A Pregnancy Center and Clinic. From all walks of life, ages, background and each leave with more than facts. They leave with hope.
“When you come to us you have a sounding board and are encouraged to go back and tell family and someone you trust to walk with you “Twenty five years ago we acces creativity light homes gifts were founded with a vision and make the right decision.” to save babies and that’s what we do – 2,500 babies saved from abortion and families as well,” says clinic director Patrice Lewis.
– Patrice Lewis, A Pregnancy Center and Clinic
And this month supporters can show their backing during the group’s annual Walk for Life. The mission of the May 14 event is two fold – raising awareness and funds. ©iStockphoto.com/Opla
The event is slated from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Parc International with entertainment including a 300 strong
28 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
for Life
choir of children and a walk. T-shirts will be available for a donation to the necessary resources if they want. of any size and a local doctor will speak to the theme of the event All services are free and confidential – whatever age the woman – “Will You Be Their Voice?” may be. While the center is centered on preventing abortion, Patrice says “We do encourage no secrets. We do want them to share what’s they don’t use pressure or scare tactics. When women first arrive at going on with the family. When you come to us you have a sounding the clinic the staff assesses their needs. board and are encouraged to go back and tell family and someone “Whether that’s a pregnancy test or to talk about abortion,” Patrice you trust to walk with you and make the right decision.” says. “We assess their needs, their support system, circumstances.” No matter what the decision, she says the center is there to give Women are counseled on the facts and all services, including the women the facts. pregnancy test and any ultrasounds, are free. In subsequent visits, “We give them information to make an educated decision. We women who plan to continue their pregnancy and parent are given have clients that do still choose to have an abortion – at least they the tools to do just that. Educational resources are available from have the information,” she says. “Accurate information so they can dealing with the possibility of marriage to nutrition while pregnant. make an informed educated decision and that’s what our goal is.” Home visits are also done to assess how the clinic can help. “And after we love to go to the hospital and bring a free car seat, diapers, wipes, clothes,” Patrice says.
For more information about the walk or to donate or volunteer go to apccwalkforlife.com.
Women are also counseled on options like adoption and although they are not an adoption agency, they do connect expectant moms
INTRODUCING
I S O L Á™
Main Street in River Ranch | Lafayette | 337.984.8618 MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 29
WhiteHeat The gala that brings a breath of fresh air to the month of May
Story by Amanda Bedgood
T
This month City Club will transform into a breezy sea of white as the Children’s Shelters of Acadiana Youth rolls out Lafayette’s easy going soiree. White Linen Night is, simply put, one big party. While the May 20 event will include both live and silent auctions, it will also include a band that sends partygoers straight to the dance floor – and keeps them there – and a vibe that’s much more casual than the average soiree.
Leslie says the simplest way to describe the attire is something you would wear to a beach wedding. “It’s that cool Miami vibe. Crisp. A sea of white,” she says.
“It’s the perfect time of year to get dressed up in something that’s cool and breezy.” –Sharon Moss, White Linen Night Chair
“It’s a low key night,” says Leslie Briscoe Latch, the Shelters’ community relations director. “Not stuffy.”
Spearheading the committee is Sharon Moss, who says the event arrives just in time as summer quickly approaches. “It’s the perfect time of year to get dressed up in something that’s cool and breezy,” she says noting that while it’s all for a worthy cause, the event is as much about making mon-
ey as it is fun. “GTO is a great band and everyone really dances and has fun,” Sharon says. In fact, Leslie notes that the last White Linen Night boasted a full dance floor until the lights came on. The auction will include a variety of packages from weekends at a camp to a girls’ night out package, a sportsman’s paradise and tickets to both LSU and UL games. “The auction packages people put together nicely. Things people really want. We went after some really unique items and trips,” Sharon says. It’s Sharon’s hope that people simply have a good time and at the same time raise money for a very worthy cause. “I’ve been to the shelter and the first time I went I almost came home with a little girl,” she says. “It really touched me to see these children and they are precious and often don’t have a mom or a dad.” The Children’s Shelters mission is to provide a safe, loving home environment for abused and troubled youth, while offering a broad range of therapeutic, educational and recreational services. And they depend on fundraisers like White Linen to provide for those children.
nifer Teri Dupuy, Jen anda Bedgood, ndi Landry, Am Ra h. ez, atc Lop e-L ngsco row: Nicole You Moss, Leslie Bri left to right, top Crockett, Sharon m Row: Virginia Committee from y Briscoe. Botto st, Sarah Citron, Linda Brame. Jud r, tie Po ellWe Mitch Claiborne, Sarah ielle
Not pictured: Dan
30 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
... Calling All Ladies In addition to White Linen, Children’s Shelters are rolling out a brand new event this summer that promises to be unlike any other fundraiser in the area. And one that will no doubt leave people talking.
The guys are going to be decked out courtesy of Brother's on the Boulevard and tickets to the event will be $20 in advance and $25 at the door.
Bid on a Bachelor is slated for June 16 at Trynd with 20 handpicked bachelors ready for the auction block.
Leslie says group bidding will be allowed which would give ladies a chance to get together to bid on a guy.
“We are so excited about it. It’s a totally different event,” says Leslie Briscoe Latch, the Shelters’ community relations director. “Acadiana has been longing for an event like this.”
“Three girls could get together and bid and then a guy can bring his friends and do a group date and it’s more comfortable for everyone,” she says. “It’s going to be funny and fun.”
The event will include an auction of 20 bachelors with winners earning a date with the eligible guy.
In addition to the guys on stage, Blair Herter of Road Rules fame who hails from Louisiana will be making an appearance a la video. The celeb who is based in L.A. can’t make it in for the event. But, ladies will be able to bid on him with the promise of his return for a later date.
“We’ll have 20 hand picked most eligible bachelors in Acadiana and it’s all in good fun and to raise money for the shelters,” Leslie says. The bachelors range in age from 28 to 65 with diverse backgrounds from a drummer in a band to company CEOs. “We have such a wide variety,” Leslie says.
lamodeshoes.net 414 Heymann Blvd. Lafayette, LA 70503 337.232.6522 MAY 2011
For more information about White Linen Night and Bid on a Bachelor go to AcadianaYouthInc.org.
M-F 9:30-4:30 Sat 10-4 Narrow & Medium Widths Available FACE Magazine 31
COOKIESCORNER
Quitting Too Early Success: Sometimes We Quit Too Soon
I
t is real easy to get sucked into an overnight success story. But what you don’t read right away is that it took that person a lot of years and a lot of hard work to get to that place. We live in what I call the McDonald’s Society. We want it quick, easy and good. However, what happens is that we become very impatient with our quest for success and we give up way too soon. Let me give you an example. In an effort to get healthier and gain muscular strength, I joined a local Pilates Performer club. OMG! Talk about a workout, but I absolutely love it. The whole
“The dictionary is the only place that success comes before work.” –Anonymous premise behind the class is doing the exercises very, very slowly to get the maximum results. My instructor, Jessica, who is just a sweetheart and excellent teacher, favorite words are ‘Creep it, creep it. Tell those stomach muscles to do their job and don’t quit.’ Now I know you have an 8” x 10” glossy mental picture of me sweating, straining, and trembling to keep going and not give up. Believe me, in the early learning stages it’s not a pretty picture, but
I persevere. Whether it is in Pilates or in life, intentionality is very important to your success. The intention behind going slow is that you concentrate on doing the exercise the right way to get the maximum results out of your efforts. In addition, you also find out what actions work and what actions don’t work for you, hence you reach your goals faster. Who would have thought that a success lesson would come from a Pilates class? Every time the instructor says those words ‘don’t quit’ it reminds me of how many times I have become impatient or given up because I wanted
32 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
COOKIESCORNER
cookietuminello have to remember is that you didn’t get that way overnight and you’re not going
results right now. Whether it is in your business or your life, the same principles
“In order to reach your goals, you must remember three things: patience, consistency, and commitment.” to change it overnight. Stay the course.
apply. In order to reach your goals, you must remember three things: patience, consistency, and commitment.
CONSISTENCY – Whether it is a personal or a professional goal, you can’t just do something once and expect it to magically transform you. You’ve got to keep working those muscles, whether it is a mental
PATIENCE – Since patience has never been one of my strong suits, this is one that I continue to work on. The thing that you
confidence muscle or a stomach muscle. COMMITMENT – The right mindset is everything. The key to success is to keep your vision of what you want in front of you at all times. It must be your goal, not something you think you should do because everybody else is doing it. Success comes to those who are willing to work for it, however long it takes. If it is worth having, it’s worth working for. Cookie Tuminello is an unconventional, take charge, savvy and successful leadership and team building coach. She is the CEO of Success Source LLC, which she founded in 1999. For more information on Cookie and her programs visit www.CookieTuminello.com.
LET ’S PL AY TAG it’s all fun and games in easy-to-wear rompers and playful dresses.
ess” fy dr L A ! u o “p LA, H! RE OO OUTU C
alter ’all h “all yromper” HUL
UL AM
A
taylo
“pe r-made tti r local EM om ly ERS per ON ” T AY LO
913 harding street MAY 2011
•
oil center
•
TAG WE ’R ... E IT !
R
234-7171
•
m - f 10 -5pm
•
sa 10 -4pm
•
melodisbellesandbeaus.com FACE Magazine 33
COOKIESCORNER
ŠiStockphoto.com/pixdeluxe
34 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
MOMSDAY
THE BEST OF YOU Being a mom never ends. There’s never a point at which a mom ceases to be a mother to her children. No point, no matter how empty the nest, that the mamma bird isn’t still looking out for her chick. It’s a soul pouring, heart breaking, joy-filled thing to raise children and for each mother and with each child that experience is unique. And so this month we look to honor all sorts of moms. From the mouths of mothers to the mouths of children. To the moms who bore us to those who served as a stand-in mother figure. The moms in all our lives deserve to be honored more than this one day of the year. And so, we hope you make time to say thank you to the mothers in your life. And for all the moms out there, take time to let your children know just how thankful you are to be a mom – their mom.
A Denture You Can Trust to Look and Perform...
.. . B e a u t i f ully ! People with dentures that are no longer natural-looking
may feel self-conscious and embarrassed in social situations.
However, there is another choice for Acadiana denture wearers... Before
After *Actual GENEVA 2000™ denture patients pictured; however, in this case not treated by Dr. Fontenot.
THE GENEVA 2000 ™ DENTURE SYSTEM
• Life-like Tooth Design
• State-of-the-Art
Technology Custom, hand-sculpted Geneva 2000™ teeth are Improved lower denture stability specifically designed and taylor-made to compliment for comfortable chewing and biting. the wearer’s age, sex and physical appearance.
Call today for a
COMPLIMENTARY
consultation.
337.332.2412
FAMILY DENTISTRY
Dr. Bennett Fontenot, DDS Dr. Ryan Terry, DDS
1329 Grand Point Road Breaux Bridge, LA 70517 Official Geneva 2000™ Website: www.geneva-dental.com
FREE Exam & X-Ray •Unlimited FREE Adjustments •Interest-Free Financing •1-Year Warranty •Spare Denture - 1/2 Price MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 35
In honor of Mother’s Day we asked our readers one simple question: "What's the best part about being a mom?" Read their answers below and this Mother’s Day take time to ask your own mother that question. There’s a good chance her answer will bless you both. And don’t forget to take time to ask the question of yourself and then share it with your own children – we’re sure your answer will bless them more than you’ll ever know. Seeing them, holding them, smelling them, hearing them, making memories with them. Watching them grow and being there for them. Being amazed by them daily... The fact they need a hug and a kiss from me before they can start their day. Dressing them in coordinating outfits. I love it all every exhausting little bit of it! There is something from each child that I adore. Natalie Nacol Revere Waking my daughter up every morning by singing to her ... When she starts rubbing those eyes and singing with me, I know the day will be as beautiful as my little girl Lauren Michel Lauren’s daughter, Ava Grace hugs! Madelene Boudreaux Those beautiful, happy eyes full of excitement and love! The most meaningful, miraculous, challenging and fulfilling role I will ever have. Nothing on earth is better than hearing, "mommy, I wub you too." Paloma Rose Reyes Knowing that the Lord BLESSED me with being the MOM to three beautiful sons Kathleen Conques Roche' Being their everything because they are my everything. Rae McNeill Luig
The smile and comfort I see in their faces when I'm there. Knowing that I'm shaping who they will become as adults!! I'm thankful everyday that god as trusted me w three beautiful children! Candace Sharon-Meche Seeing him smile everyday Shasta Peltier Bertrand Realizing that each day I have three opportunities to see Gods blessings in my life...patience, love, understanding, joy and faith. No matter what the day puts in my way, my children give me the strength to face it and learn from it. That's what I love The Elledge kids – Kaylie, Ashley and Grant about them!! Anna Lewis Elledge Wearing a heart that beams with pride, stops with fear, sighs with amazement, breaks with sorrow, and aches with love. One that is torn by regret, filled with joy, tickled by laughter, and enraged by criticism of others. A mother's heart beats every beat for their children. A mother’s heart, you just can't explain it unless you have one. What a blessing. Jeanell Menard Learning something new every day through the eyes of each of my kids and the bond that has grown between my husband and I that only children bring Kristie Rineholt Lancon
36 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Beverly Spell
I Hope You Dance when they laugh... Maralien Orantes
Beverly Spell teaches far more than pliĂŠs and pirouettes
For me it's seeing them laugh so hard they can't breathe, the bedtime hugs and kisses, the excitement in their eyes when Daddy comes home from work. I love when they try to help out but make a huge mess, knowing that we have instilled the desire to serve others in them makes that huge mess okay. Sarah Beth Laughlin
In a ballet studio in Milton there is a mother of two boys who spends her days imparting far more than the beauty of ballet to hundreds of students. She shepherds them, guides them, mothers them in an environment that lends itself to life lessons like perseverance. The results are girls who are successful beyond the studio. One mother shares how The Ballet Studio owner and teacher Beverly Spell made a difference in the life of her daughter.
Having grand babies! Tina Broussard Finally having the dream of being a mom come true! Oh, and the words, "I lub you, mom. Want a huggle?" Robin Jones Racca
This studio is so unique in its approach to teaching the art of dance I believe because Beverly uses her mind, soul, heart and strength with which to teach. My youngest daughter, Julia, has been there for the past 8 years starting at the young age of 4. I have seen so many little girls grow up into the most talented and beautiful young women over the years - the character, poise, and grace with which these young ladies carry themselves I believe is the direct result of what Beverly pours into them day after day. Beverly has certainly "mothered" countless young girls that have come through her studio doors since they opened over 10 years ago. I know that Julia has certainly leaned on Ms. Bev for advice on matters that "only she could understand" as I have often been told. I have never had to worry about what Ms. Bev might advise
MAY 2011
Beverly Spell, owner and teacher at The Ballet Studio mothers hundreds of girls each year in more than the art of dance.
Julia because she treats her students as if they were her own children (she herself has only sons!) and first and foremost has their best interest at heart, respects us as parents and instills in the girls respect for themselves and others. She leads and teaches with a godly heart and is an inspiration to all who have had the privilege to meet her. - Mary Towry
FACE Magazine 37
Becky Wooten
A Mother’s Legacy Kimberly Wooten remembers the legacy of her mother this Mother’s Day. A simple soul who left an impact with a whisper rather than a shout. My mother was a simple soul. All she needed was a good book and the outdoor air to be content with her day. Recognizing the all too forgotten "little things" in life is one of the most profound attributes my mother left on me. My mother was abruptly taken from my father, sister and I on October 30, 2006 in an automobile accident due to the careless actions of a drunk driver. Not only a mother, but a best friend and confidant was lost. A jack of all trades, my mother Becky was an almost perfect individual who took on life with a quiet elegance. No bells and whistles, no need for boasting, she taught me the great importance it’s not how big you live life but, how big an impact life leaves on you by the journey you choose to embark on. The little things in life, we all do them – we all witness them – but, often times these small actions are overlooked or taken for granted. A neck hug from your young child as they dangle off the ground, an inside joke between friends, or an effortless "I love you" to a loved one. How often we forget how special these moments are until they're gone. The memory box of my mother is filled with tiny treasures. I can still envision my mother reading her Jackie Collins novels on the love seat of our living room as I passed by and patted her wavy, chestnut colored hair before leaving the house and “kitchen dancing” with her to our favorite country
music songs when we were the only two in the house. Though minute acts of affection towards one another, it was special, and it was our thing. Whether your lap becomes someone’s pillow after a long day of work or a certain song on the radio instantly makes you text your best friend, treasure those moments because tomorrow is never promised. Like that little black dress in your closet, saying ‘I love you’, never goes out of style. -Kimberly Wooten
Kimberly Wooten and her sister Jamie with their mother Becky, who was killed five years ago after being hit by a drunk driver. Kimberly remembers the legacy of her mother and the importance of the little things in life.
Cameo K BOOKKEEPING
K
Cameo Bookkeeping specializes in small business and start-ups for all phases of bookkeeping, taxes and payroll, including all reports needed to stay in compliance. Less paperwork for you means more time to concentrate on your business specialty. We offer affordable rates because you can’t afford to NOT have a good bookkeeper.
BETH GUILLOT, E.A. 337.988.3260 cameo307@cox.net 38 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 39
SPRINGACCESSORYREPORT
Nude lace up flat sandals by Steve Madden from Shoe La La, 201 Settlers Trace Blvd., No. 3010, River Ranch. 40 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
SPRINGACCESSORYREPORT
Spring in her Step Honor the season with fresh footwear in shades of taupe, nude and gold with a nod to nature with floral details and flirty feathers. Jewelry is less about the bling, but no less bold with pearls that are anything but demure and pieces in hues of blue that recall the sea.
Photography by Mike Bedgood • Model Jade Meaux • Styling Amanda Bedgood • Makeup by Geena LeCorgne MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 41
Turquoise stone embellished flat by Nicole and turquoise bag from Imelda’s Fine Shoes, 3810 Ambassador Caffery #200. 42 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Eric Javits hat and turquoise necklace from La Mode Shoes, 414 Heymann Blvd., Oil Center. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 43
Top: Cole Haan gold deck shoe with Nike Air technology from La Mode Shoes, 414 Heymann Blvd., Oil Center. Middle: Cookie Guesser necklace from Natalee, 331 Heymann Blvd., Oil Center. Bottom: Sak purse from Shoe La La, 201 Settlers Trace Blvd., No. 3010, River Ranch. 44 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Barbara Conner necklaces and earrings from Natalee, 331 Heymann Blvd., Oil Center. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 45
Necklace, bracelet and earrings from Paul's Jewelry, 600 Silverstone in River Ranch and 325 Oil Center Drive in the Oil Center. 46 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Top: Brown tortoise sunglasses with Swarovski crystals by Jimmy Crystal Sunglasses from Jody's of Lafayette, 923 Harding St., Oil Center. Bottom Left: Donald Pliner rose sprinkled sandal from La Mode Shoes, 414 Heymann Blvd., Oil Center. Bottom Right: Steve Madden nude patent heel from Shoe La La, 201 Settlers Trace Blvd., No. 3010, River Ranch and Imelda’s Fine Shoes, 3810 Ambassador Caffery #200. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 47
Top: Melie Bianco handbag from Imelda’s Fine Shoes, 3810 Ambassador Caffery #200. Middle: Barbara Conner Bracelets from Natalee, 331 Heymann Blvd., Oil Center. Bottom: Feather embellished wedges from Shoe La La, 201 Settlers Trace Blvd., No. 3010, River Ranch. 48 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Judith Lieber emerald cut block diamond crystal necklace set in 24kt and antique gold plated baguette block diamond crystal earrings set in 24kt. gold from Jody's of Lafayette, 923 Harding St., Oil Center. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 49
THE INCREDIBLE LIGHTNESS OF WHITE The purest of colors makes a bold statement this season with simple shapes and must have details. An embroidered sleeve, rows of folded fabric, sheer lace and a nod of floral.
Photography by Penny Moore • Model Claire Menard • Styling Amanda Bedgood • Location Billeaud Home 50 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Breezy dress with embroidered sleeves and floppy straw hat from Vanessa V. Boutique, 5520-E Johnston Street. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 51
Sequin smattered white strapless dress from Brother's on the Boulevard, 101 Arnould Blvd. 52 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Sheer tank dress with floral details from Partners' LTD, 102 Arnould Blvd. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 53
Sweetheart neckline dress with bold blue and white beaded necklace from Knotting Hill, 201 Settlers Trace Blvd., River Ranch. 54 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Lace dress with bold belt and dramatic turquoise necklace from Vertigo, 201 Settlers Trace Blvd., River Ranch. MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 55
Curve hugging white dress from Bevo's of Lafayette, 715 Bertrand Drive. 56 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
LIVE MUSIC
SILENT & LIVE AUCTION
COCKTAILS
Put on your southern best and join us at White Linen Night!
Revel in live music, silent & live auction, sip on southern cocktails, enjoy scrumptious fare, mint juleps and fine fashion that consists of a sea of seersucker and summer-chic linen attire!
FRIDAY, MAY 20, 2011 Tickets and Sponsorship info. call: 337.237.1320 or visit our website: www.TheChildrensShelters.org
Presenting the GTO Band Doors open at 7:00 p.m. • City Club at River Ranch • Ticket price is $75 per person All proceeds benefit:
SPONSORS
MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 57
58 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
Crazy Beautiful life
Story by Amanda Bedgood Photography by Penny Moore Clothing provided by Vanessa V. Boutique MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 59
Life is messy. Just ask Tiffany Aragona. With five kids ten years and younger, this mom knows a thing or two about learning to take things as they come. And while she’s the genuine kind of mom who admits things are often crazy, she’s as thankful as she is busy. Children, in this home, are a blessing – not a burden. And it is with that heart that the then mother of four headed to China just months ago to find the little girl she knew was hers. An amazing journey. An enormous heart. A beautiful (and crazy) life.
60 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
There were two things
Tiffany Aragona knew before she ever had children. She wanted a house full of them and she wanted to adopt. Why she wanted to adopt is not something she can articulate. It was something she knew even as young as four years old, she says. And while some may find it hard to understand why Tiffany would travel to China to adopt a child when she already had four, she says simply that she knew her daughter was out there. She had carried her in her heart.
In 1997, Tiffany met Paul Aragona while in college in Oklahoma. By 2000 they would marry and she would have a daughter – Lenzie. Tiffany, a Louisiana native returned eventually to her roots and settled in Lafayette with their one child. And while she hadn’t given up her dreams of having a large family, she admits frankly that her hands were full as a first time mom. While Tiffany’s friends were still living the college life, she was learning what it meant to be a mother and wife. And as most things in life, being a mom wasn’t exactly what the young Tiffany had expected. “You have a picture of what motherhood will be like and no one tells you the real story,” she says. “When you don’t feel those things you think something is wrong with you.” It would be four years before Luke joined the Aragona clan. Then came Bella and just two years ago Lincoln. And while the Aragonas had a full house, Tiffany says she knew in her heart her daughter was out there. “I can’t explain it,” she says. Tiffany and Paul saved early on and planned for adoption and when Tiffany was but 24 years old they headed to meet with an agency only to be met with a dead end. “To adopt from China you have to be 30 years old. It’s the only country with an age requirement. The agency had a lot of other countries to choose from. I knew it wasn’t even an option. She was there. I was waiting for six years,” Tiffany says not realizing it would be even later when they brought their daughter home. And so during that time, Tiffany and Paul had Luke and Bella and on Tiffany’s 30th birthday in May 2009, while pregnant with Lincoln, she headed back to the agency. They were told it could take two years. But, a year and a half in they tacked on another two years. “Your life is on hold,” she says. “I knew we weren’t waiting. I said ‘I don’t feel like that’s what we need to do.’” And so the agency suggested they consider the waiting children list, which consists of children with disabilities. Tiffany and Paul knew it was the right choice and took home the paperwork to begin the process and while Tiffany was ready to go, she also found it nearly impossible to complete the forms. “We had to fill out what we would and would not accept. I couldn’t do it MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 61
for weeks,” she says. “You would take a biological child no matter what. It broke my heart to choose certain things and the mom in me wanted to be like whatever is okay.” The couple had six referrals, none of which Tiffany believed were their child. “I knew I would know. That I looked in their eyes and would know,” she says. “It was so hard to turn down each one and each time I cried. My heart tugged for that baby and yet I knew she wasn’t mine.”
“You take time to put the things that matter first first and let the small stuff go.”
Tiffany recalls with absolute clarity the day the letter came. And the phrase that sent her reeling – “intent to revoke.” “They were going to charge us with perjury,” Tiffany says. When the Aragonas filed years before to begin the adoption process she was pregnant with Lincoln and upon his birth should have sent a note that he had actually been born. There were no forms or instructions to indicate it was necessary. And now, one note could mean the difference between having their daughter or not. They would have to begin the entire process from scratch. As though none of their time or money had been invested.
“I sat in the office and read it over and over. Hysterical. I was talking to God. I was very angry. I didn’t understand why,” Tiffany says. “Things happen and you don’t underMonths later while working at her mother’s res- stand and you question and I’m yelling. I do taurant waiting tables and juggling several other not understand. My heart was so broken.” tasks, Tiffany got the call that a little girl was available that could be a good fit for the Aragonas. She had yet to be put on the official list.
Tiffany says she continued to throw a fit and while at such times many people feel comfort, a verse, the voice of God, she heard “I left my tables and ran into the office and one word – so. looked and said ‘yes, hold her. Don’t let anyone see “So. That’s it. So. I realized I don’t underher. She’s mine.’ And then I called my husband,” she says with a laugh. stand what God’s doing and it’s okay,” she She explained the young girl to Paul. She was a says. year old and was missing an arm.
The Aragonas sent a letter of apology and would learn in a month’s time whether the glitch would send them back to the drawing That was January 2010 and the Aragonas were board.
“He said ‘sure. But, I think it’s too good to be true,’” she remembers. told by April or May they would have their baby. “It never happened. It was one thing after another,” Tiffany recalls. By August of 2010, Tiffany’s patience was breaking.
It had been eight years and the words of encouragement she heard again and again about the wait, no matter how true, were not what Tiffany wanted to hear. “I know that God has a season and a purpose,” she says. “Still, you don’t want to hear that.” Tiffany wanted her daughter home. August 27 would be her second birthday and on that day Tiffany says the years of waiting finally took its toll.
“You have a picture of what motherhood will be like and no one tells you the real story.”
“I don’t get down – I know God’s going to turn everything around and it will be for a reason – that day though … I couldn’t pull myself out of it,” Tiffany says. Soon to follow was a letter that would send Tiffany’s world crashing down.
62 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
“They (children) are gifts from God and I get them for a season.�
MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 63
“I had grand expectations and I didn’t care about anything but her.”
64 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
In December 2010, after years of waiting and months of almost, the Aragonas headed to China for two weeks to bring home their daughter – Amalie Shi Shan. (The couple chose to name her Amalie and keep her given first name in the form of her middle name.) The process required the couple tour the country on a regimented schedule for days before seeing their daughter. And in spite of Tiffany’s grand expectations of visiting China, the photographer says everything fell flat in light of her anticipation to see Amalie. “I had grand expectations and I didn’t care about anything but her. These beautiful landscapes and I didn’t care,” Tiffany says with a laugh.
mom is saying let me kiss her,” Tiffany recalls. Back at home, the fanfare didn’t fade for some time, Tiffany says. And while she was thankful that the other kids were excited for Amalie’s arrival, she was ready for them to feel like a family in a real way. “At first it was ‘Amalie loves me. She smiled at me. She kissed me,’” Tiffany laughs. When Amalie arrived she spoke basically one word in English – mommy. And so, despite the sweetness of hearing the word, Tiffany soon realized every woman Amalie encountered was mommy. It didn’t take long for the young Amalie to begin speaking English.
“I knew it wasn’t even an option. She was there. I was waiting for six years,”
On the third day after touring the couple flew to a city close to the orphanage where Amalie lived with the promise of meeting her that night. As she waited, Tiffany was frantic, panicking, ready to see her.
“Then I got so nervous,” she laughs noting it’s something she’s done with the birth of every child. At the last minute a quick change of plans meant they would see her immediately upon arriving with the driver taking them straight to Amalie’s hotel. It was 11 at night and Tiffany remembers arriving at a glass front hotel where someone threw a sleeping Amalie in her arms.
“She’s learned. I think it’s survival with five kids that talk a lot,” she laughs noting that they want her to continue speaking Mandarin as well.
Tiffany hopes it will help her down the road, especially if she wants to return to China. And it will keep her connected to her history, Tiffany notes assuming she’ll grow up with questions about that history. It’s a history Tiffany expects she’ll explore.
“She had on three layers of clothes and I’m holding her and signing papers,” she says.
Within weeks Amalie began calling her Tiffany after learning English before she reverted back to mommy, which now carries great meaning as it’s reserved only for Tiffany. On the day we met up with Tiffany, the kids were waiting in great anticipation to take their picture with her as we finished up her solo shots and as they came bounding out of the house, there was a round of “mommy” with the loudest voice coming through that of Amalie.
Halfway through signing the papers, the young Amalie woke and upon seeing Tiffany began crying – a stream of silent tears falling.
The kids are the picture of happy and like any group of five siblings, getting them to pose and smile is kind of like corralling ants. For Tiffany, that’s simply life as they know it.
“I’m sure she’s traumatized and we get in the van and she started screaming hysterically and screamed for two hours,” Tiffany says.
“It’s going to be crazy, loud and disorganized at times,” Tiffany says. “That’s life.”
The couple spent a few days with Amalie before they were required to return to the orphanage for a tour and lunch. It was there that it became clear Amalie had become more comfortable with Tiffany. “They said ‘you tour and have lunch and we take the baby,’” she remembers. Amalie clung to her new mother. “She’s crying and I’m crying and her legs are wrapped around me and she’s holding on,” Tiffany says. “It was awful.” That day Tiffany, though, realized her prayers had been answered for the daughter she had not yet known. “I prayed to keep her safe, keep her healthy and keep her loved, very much loved,” Tiffany says. And while the young Amalie was found on the street at six months old, Tiffany learned that while at the orphanage the little girl was loved.
With five children, Tiffany has learned not to sweat the small stuff and put the things that matter most first. At the end of the day, she’s always amazed that she’s gotten all she has done. “God multiplies my time. There’s no way I can finish everything I need to do,” she says. And so, Tiffany makes a habit to add fun to her list, their life, whenever she can. “That’s the key – fun. There are times I have photos to work on and five loads of laundry and dinner to cook and the kids are crazy … it’s more important in the middle of the craziness to water the flowers with them.” And so, on some of the most hectic days, Tiffany gathers the brood and they head out to do just that. “You take time to put the things that matter first first and let the small stuff go,” she says. There are many questions one can’t help ask Tiffany.
“At the orphanage they said ‘our princess. We love our Shi Shan (her birth name).’ They said her life will never be the same now. We know she’ll have a beautiful life,’” Tiffany says.
“People ask how do you keep your house clean with five kids? You just answered your own question,” she laughs noting even the youngest kids know how to keep up with their room.
It was a touching exchange that moved Tiffany and eased her mind about Amalie’s treatment. They were given dvds of Amalie’s early months and three photo albums.
As for more kids? That’s a yes. How many or from where is still up in the air. But, Tiffany hopes to both have more biologically and adopt more.
“It’s amazing when God promises you, He way over delivers,” Tiffany says.
“It’s one big crazy trip,” she says of she and Paul’s life. “They (children) are gifts from God and I get them for a season.”
Back in Louisiana, Paul, Tiffany and Amalie were greeted with an enthusiastic family who had been waiting for this day for years.
It’s a season she’s not wasting ironing clothes and cooking elaborate meals. Instead, look for her in the flower garden.
“We get to the airport and people are there with balloons and flowers and she was traumatized. The kids are screaming and my MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 65
12
11
10
5
6
9
7
4
8
13
3
MAP
14
2
15 16 1
A GUIDE TO OUR CUSTOMERS
17
18
19
66 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com Magazine www.facelafayette.com
1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19
Imelda's – 3810 Ambassador Caffery #200 Vanessa V Boutique – 5520 E. Johnston St. Get Wet – 3229 Ambassador Caffery Parkway Loretta's – 504 Guilbeau Rd. Clothing Loft – 115 Arnould Blvd. On the Boulevard Caroline & Co. – 113 Arnould Blvd. On the Boulevard Brother's on the Blvd. – 101 Arnould Blvd. On the Boulevard Coccolare Spa – 331 Doucet Rd. Christopher Hubbell, M.D., a Jeune Medical Spa – 913 South College Rd. Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center – 611 St. Mary St. Trynd – 116 E. Vermillion St. Dr. Bennett Fontenot, DDS – 1329 Grand Pointe Rd. Breaux Bridge, LA MPW Properties – 301 Kaliste Saloom Rd., Ste. 402 J. Kevin Duplechain, MD, FACS – 1103 Kaliste Saloom Rd., Ste. 300 Laser Skincare of La. – 1103 Kaliste Saloom Rd., Ste. 302 Dunn’s Design – 208 Rue Louis XIV Allure Enhancement – 3110 West Pinhook Rd., Ste. 10217 Women's Foundation Inc – 4630 Ambassador Caffery Parkway, Suite 100 Loretta’s – 810 St. Blaise Lane, Ste. C Cypress Bayou Casino/Shorty's Charenton, LA
By Appointment : • Cameo Bookkeeping – 337-988-3260
RIVER RANCH
20
20 Paul’s Jewelry – 600 Silverstone Rd. 21 Knotting Hill – 201 Settlers Trace Blvd. Shoe La La – 201 Settlers Trace Blvd. Vertigo – 201 Settlers Trace Blvd. 21
OIL CENTER 22 X
23 25 24 26
27
29 31
OCTOBER 2010 MAY 2011
30
28
22 Renaissance Market – 902 Harding St. 23 Paul’s Jewelry – 325 Oil Center Dr. 24 Pieces of Eight – 902 Coolidge Blvd. 25 Melodi’s Belles & Beau’s – 913 Harding St. 26 Jody’s of Lafayette, Inc. – 923 Harding St. 27 Cabelo – 1000 Coolidge Blvd. 28 Acadian Ear, Nose, Throat and Facial Plastic Surgery – 1000 W. Pinhook Rd, Ste. 201 29 Natalee – 331 Heymann Blvd. 30 LaMode Shoes – 414 Heymann Blvd. 31 Dr. Tony Soileau DDS Family Dentistry – 1144 Coolidge Blvd.
FACE Magazine Magazine 67 FACE
showyourface MAD HATTER April 4 – City Club Ladies lunched in gay Paris during the Acadiana Symphony’s annual Mad Hatter Luncheon and style show. The fete full of ladies in lovely hats included high fashion and fabulous eats – all with a Parisian flair. The unforgettable fashion show included dozens of even more unforgettable handmade hats for each and every model.
68 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
showyourface REPROM
March 26 – River Oaks The Lafayette Education Foundation had a groovy time at their annual soiree where partygoers took the opportunity to relive their prom nights (this time older and wiser). The Tip Tops kept the dance floor hopping while prom court members took to the stage to garner last minute votes for the cause. Cherie Hebert took top honors as Prom Queen with Blaine Comeaux taking Prom King.
MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 69
showyourface HEARTSTRINGS COOKOFF March 12 – Crawfish Town USA Supporters of Heart Strings and Angel Wings showed their love for the local organization during their annual gumbo cook off. The shindig included live music, a hopping dance floor and auction items galore.
MOSS FASHION SHOW March 24 – Moss BMW Showroom Hemline brought the runway to Moss Motors recently during a style show at the local car dealership BMW showroom. Models worked the catwalk in spring’s latest while partygoers posed for party pics.
70 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com
MAY 2011
FACE Magazine 71
72 FACE Magazine www.facelafayette.com