Sophie Jan/Feb 2019

JANUARY/FEBRUARY 2019

sophisticated. stylish. sassy.

THE

Yoga ISSUE

Relationships: Trust & Luck A Perfect Day in Salzburg SophieMagazine.com

FASHION

PEOPLE

HOME & GARDEN ENTERTAINMENT

20

Garden Bloomers

34

Betty’s Book Review

FITNESS

35

Meg’s Movie Review

8

Street Style

12

Lisa Zahiya

11

A New Year, A New Look

14

Pearls, Lipstick and Yoga

28

Hot and Cold

16

Relationships, Trust and luck

24

18

A Perfect Day in Salzburg

26

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More Than a Workout

Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness

COMMUNITY

36

Things To Do

From the Publisher:

W

elcome to the Yoga issue of Sophie! When the editorial team decided we wanted to focus on Yoga for our January and February issue, the response we received was overwhelming. It seems Yoga has touched the lives of many people, of all shapes, sizes and age with its healing and meditation benefits. Meghan Lavender, professional ballroom dancer and owner of Wave Studios with her husband, Jake Lavender, provides an insightful history lesson on this Eastern tradition and explains some of the basic and most popular yoga poses — so now I know what people are talking about when they reference the downward-facing dog!

I've learned how practicing yoga can improve balance, flexibility, strength and body awareness, but more importantly, that anyone can do it! You don't have to be flexible. It doesn't matter your age or experience. It's more about where you want to do it and who with. In this issue we feature some local yoga studios that offer a wide range of services and experiences. I'm sure you will find the right one to give it a try. Even our own Susan Reinhardt has a fun yoga story to share that is uniquely her own.

The theme of this issue in many ways is, regardless of your body type or physicality, you can practice yoga or even learn how to belly-dance! Meg introduces us to Lisa Zahiya, owner of Studio Zahiya, belly-dance instructor and entrepreneur. She founded her company with the goal of teaching dance and fitness for body-acceptance, something she had struggled with in the past. Their studio motto is: celebrate you, through acceptance and self-celebration. Her story is so welcoming to me, I may trade in my ballroom dance shoes for some Belly-dancing lessons!

In this issue, I'm certain there is something for everyone. Lauren's Relationships: Trust & Luck article is insightful, Betty's perfect day in Salzburg is enviously delicious, and Sarah and Max's Fashion spread is a

stylish. sophisticated. sassy

GENERAL MANAGER/PUBLISHER Patricia Martin IT/PRODUCTION MANAGER Jeff Ruminski CREATIVE EDITOR Samantha Blankenship CREATIVE SERVICES Randy Whittington CONTRIBUTORS Meg Hale Brunton Lauren Griffin, M.A., LPC Susan Reinhardt Betty Sharpless Meghan Lavender Caleb Owolabi FASHION COORDINATOR Sarah Merrell PHOTOGRAPHERS Max Ganly Damian Sandone ADVERTISING CONSULTANTS Rose Lunsford Pam Hensley CLASSIFIED SUPERVISOR Angela Frizzell

winter delight! They took advantage our recent snow to share the hot style trends for a cold winter!

In closing, my sister, Christine Garman, is a director for a non-profit yoga foundation in my hometown of Fredericksburg, Virginia, so I asked for her insights on the topic. I was impressed with the emphasis she placed on the meditation and mindfulness aspects of yoga, specifically for children. I believe it's never too late to learn a new life skill, and if mindfulness can reduce stress and help me achieve a healthy lifestyle, this is one resolution I can commit to in the new year.

Cheers to a Happy 2019!

Patricia Martin

CIRCULATION MANAGER Sam Howell INTERN Jovahnna Graves

SOPHIE MAGAZINE 31 College Place Asheville Office Park, Iwanna Bldg.

Asheville, NC 28801 • (828) 274-8888 Share your ideas and inspirations.

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COVER CREDITS: Photographer: Max Ganly • Fashion Coordinator: Sarah Merrell Model: Tracy Pritchett • Dog Model: Juneau • Clothes: Forever 21 at the Asheville Outlets

Distributed throughout WNC, Sophie is a complimentary monthly magazine for today’s woman. Contributions are welcome and may be sent via e-mail. Include your name, address, and phone number, so we can contact you if we decide to print your submission. Sophie reserves the right to edit any editorial submissions. Sophie also reserves the right to refuse any advertisement or article that is deemed inappropriate for the publication. No portion of Sophie may be reproduced without permission of the publisher. None of the information herein is intended as medical or professional advice.

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»FASHION

CLOTHING: SCOUT BOUTIQUE PHOTOGRAPHY: DAMIAN SANDONE • DAMIANSANDONE.COM HAIR AND MAKE-UP: MONICA WATKINS OF HAIR BABE STUDIO CREATIVE DIRECTOR: JENNIFER BAKALAR A.K.A. "JENNY B" • JENNBAKALAR.COM HEAD STYLIST: CALEB OWOLABI • CALEBOWO.COM MODEL: ELIZABETH LACKY LOCATION: POST 70 INDULGENCE BAR

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»FASHION

10 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

A New Year, A New Look

by Caleb Owolabi

In need of style consultation? Have a creative promotional idea, or perhaps you want to creatively feature your business in the next street style editorial?

Please send all inquiries to Caleb at caleb080@gmail. com. Thank you for your support!

H

ey there! Caleb here, creator of Street Style in Sophie Magazine, your source for the newest and most relevant brands, boutiques, and apparel in the WNC area.

Street Style was my brain child and, more commonly, alludes to the idea of everyday people showcasing their unique style as they traverse the city streets during their day to day activity.

My goal for Street Style was to shine a light on local brands, boutiques, apparel, and aspiring designers using all local talent. Giving them a chance to be apart of a professional production. This is our fourth edition, and we’ve been getting an enormous amount of positive feedback, so really want to thank the overwhelming support of the WNC community.

This issue the Street Style team is here to bring you some quick-service fashion tips for the New Year. But please remember nobody can be uniquely you. Put your own personal style into the fashion you bring to the table, and you are sure to have a great year!

"In the winter remember a large coat isn't always the key to warmth; be mindful to layer, thus allowing the opportunity to cool down by removing layers once you reach the office. The right layers can also add style and context to your look. If I’m traversing the city streets I may place a quarter zip fleece pullover underneath my sports jacket. This will ensure warmth during the earliest and coldest parts of the morning. Then when it reaches the warmest part of the afternoon I go to lunch without my coat and tie and leave the dress shirt and pullover on. And for you math whizzes out there, that is just one combination matrix of a total 6 possible looks that can be made!" — Caleb Owolabi (On-Figure Stylist)

“I’m an outdoors kind of guy and a lot of time when shooting on location I need something to wear with pockets so I can store my lenses, lens cap, shears etc. Well, while on set of shooting for Huk, I came across these amazing pants, and fellas, listen to me when I say this: they were perfect! Straight leg, a poly blend, so very resistant to rain and other elements and with pockets up and down the sides, but placed tastefully and not at all gaudy. I dress these pants up with a blazer or down with a fleece lined flannel shirt, and they seem to adjust well to warm or cold environments. All-inall that purchase has made a significant difference in my work/comfort balance.” — Damian Sandone (Photographer) “Don’t underestimate the power of a monochromatic look. Try an outfit in one color with different textures in the same hue. You can be more festive with a bold color or do all neutrals with just a pop of color. This is a simple way to make an outfit look appealing.” — Jenny B. (Creative Director) “Accessorize, accessorize, accessorize. I can’t stress enough the statement you can make from one 18k gold braided love-knot earring, or one chic looking index ring, or maybe one too many bangle bracelets.

Don’t overthink it. Make it about how you are feeling that day. Check out Scout and your other local boutiques and find that right piece for you. If you ask me, it is a pair of pink tinted aviator voodoo child please-bring-back-the-70’s style glasses by some obscure name, but located and put back in circulation by me” — Monica Watkins (Hairstylist) “No paw-ing around! The scarf can be versatile for any male, female, or pup ensemble. Just look at the way I effortlessly take scarf to neck for one truly glamorous shot!” — Grigio (The Fashion Pup) If interested in modeling for us simply send us a little about yourself, your occupation/ resume, and why you want to be in Street Style for Sophie to myself at caleb080@ gmail.com.

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Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 11

»PEOPLE

Lisa Zahiya: Celebrating the Self Through Dance Written by Meg Hale Brunton Photo by Nicole McConville Photography

L

isa Zahiya was born in Baltimore, Maryland to two schoolteachers. Her parents always told her that she could be anything she wanted to be and encouraged her to chase her dreams. Zahiya says it is truly sad that a lot of children don’t get that kind of parental support. As a student, she was very academically-inclined, and tested off the charts. She often felt conflicted between her studies and her true love: dance. She grew up learning and loving all styles of dance including jazz, ballet and hip-hop. “I had danced my whole life,” she says. “I loved it, but it was hard.”

As a young dancer, Zahiya always had issues with her size. At thirteen, she was taken out of ballet by the head of the company because her body type was wrong for her to ever be successful as a dancer. So she redirected her talents into jazz and musical theatre. She danced professionally after college, but found that there were still weight requirements in the other avenues of the dance world.

“I was born kind of bull-headed,” Zahiya says, recalling a childhood dance recital that she put together with her cousins and how she bossed them around.

Being “born a boss,” Zahiya thinks she was always on the road toward becoming an entrepreneur, even before she knew it. “That energy has always been there,” she sighs.

12 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

Zahiya attended the University of Maryland for International Business and Marketing and got her MBA with a focus on entrepreneurship. She went on to work a corporate job and get married. Not feeling fulfilled in that life, she reached back to her love of dance and started taking belly-dancing lessons.

“I’ve always been a very good dancer,” she says. “I wasn’t great at something until belly-dance.” Zahiya explains that, through learning this Arabic dance form, she discovered a kind of peace within herself. “I started belly-dancing and learned that there was this whole possibility of body acceptance, and that there are different cultural standards of beauty.” She adds, “I think that a lot of people think of belly-dancing as this fantasy, but it is a cultural art form.”

In her mid-twenties, Zahiya decided to make some huge life-changes. She left her corporate job, got divorced, and moved to Asheville in 2006. She had visited Asheville for the Fourth of July festivities and to attend the LAFF Festival and thought it was the perfect location to launch her new life. She supported herself doing marketing contracts online and teaching dance at the Future of Tradition studio in the Wedge building. “I knew I wanted to teach dance,” she says of her career-plans. “And I saw the opportunity when I got here.”

In 2008, Zahiya used her savings to open Studio Zahiya on Carolina Lane in downtown Asheville. She also lived in the back of the space. “It’s like jump-

ing off a cliff over and over again,” she says of starting the business. “I just thought, ‘I’d rather try it than not try it.’” When people told her that she would be poor, running her own dance studio, she would simply reply: “No.” She credits a great deal of her professional success to her background in business. “I equally love business as I do dance.” Zahiya professes to not have been daunted at the thought of starting her business in a new town all on her own. “I like to fly alone,” she remarks. “I love people and I love the community of the studio, but I just like owning a business by myself. I think that’s the deal with entrepreneurship.”

Zahiya founded her company with the goal of teaching dance and fitness for body-acceptance. Their motto is: Celebrate You. “The primary focus of the studio is using movement as a lens to feel good about yourself,” she explains. “It’s about acceptance and it’s about self-celebration.” Zahiya never wants any girl to feel like she can’t do something she loves, like dancing, simply because of her body-type, nor does she think that audiences should only see one type of body onstage when they attend a dance performance. “It should be all body types,” she says.

In 2010, Studio Zahiya moved into its current space on Lexington Avenue, on the other side of the building from its previous location. Last year, they expanded the venue to accommodate a two-studio space. Studio Zahiya has 13 dance and fitness instructors and a wide curriculum of styles to fit all levels and ages.

Zahiya’s favorite aspect of what she does is watching people change. “Seeing what [dancing] does for people,” she smiles. “I can stand back in a class and watch people care about each other and interact with each other.” Zahiya loves the confidence and empowerment that dance brings to women. “How much things would change if women believed in themselves,” she says of the world.

“If I could say one thing to all the women in the world it would be that nothing is wrong with you.”

Now 40, Zahiya has no plans of slowing down. She states that belly-dancing is one of the few dance forms that a person can continue doing well into their 60’s. “I’m really seeing the merging of all my worlds now,” she says. She owns the studio, as well as the Zahiya Belly-dance program and rents out the studio for private events through her business: Asheville Bachelorette Parties. She also performs at local events and gigs, teaches workshops, and teaches a class at Mountain BizWorks.

In addition to her dance-related ventures, Zahiya also owns her own company that does small-business coaching for women called Be Her. She started private coaching business clients through Be Her in 2018 and, currently, has 20 clients.

The goal of her coaching is to help women become the optimal version of themselves, and to decide what they want out of life and how to go get it. “I figured out what my mountain was, and I climbed it,” Zahiya says, referring to her studio. “I want to help other people do the same thing.” In the future, she hopes to combine movement with her life-coaching in some capacity.

I’ve learned a lot in the last ten years,” she says. “Life is short and you lose people. I just feel really grateful.” Zahiya acknowledges that owning her own studio is time-consuming, but that there is nothing on earth she’d rather be doing. She feels like the second part of opening her studio has been learning to manage it and to manage herself. She says finding her own independence has been a huge triumph for her. “Nobody tells me what to do,” she smirks.

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To learn more about Lisa Zahiya, or Studio Zahiya, go to www.studiozahiya.com, or www.lisazahiya.com

Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 13

»PEOPLE

Pearls, Lipstick and Yoga

by Susan Reinhardt

F

or nearly 10 years I’ve been obsessed with yoga and craved that inner warrior within, guaranteed to slash stress levels, tone my bovine core and aid in the reduction of these pelican-pouch upper arms.

This coming from a woman who used to be young and thin and thought yoga was for weirdos who eschewed the five-blade Venus and a generous swipe of Secret Solid. I pictured the stereotypical yogi: twisting, flopping then zenning out on a mat, all while chanting and crooning Sanskrit as if it were one’s primary language.

Susan Reinhardt is the author of the hilarious and quirky novel “Chimes from a Cracked Southern Belle,” along with “Not Tonight Honey, Wait ‘Til I’m a Size 6,” “Don’t Sleep with a Bubba.” and “Dishing with the Kitchen Virgin.” www.susanreinhardt.com

I was wrong. It’s not the Official Workout of the Granolas, Vegans and Gluten-Free’s who somehow dodged the ADHD gene bullet zigzagging about in the womb.

And it’s not just for those cruising on the Peace and Love Highway sporting “Feel the Bern: 2016” bumper stickers on their Subaru or Prius.

I remember my first class about 20 years ago. I wrote a newspaper column about the experience and ticked off a heck of a lot of yoga lovers with my preconceived ideas on the sub14 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

ject. Truth is, not all yogis are ethereal vessels of unruffled accord. Just because they can mediate and linger forever in shavasana, doesn’t mean they don’t get riled if you cut them off in the Whole Foods parking lot.

During my inaugural class, I’d worn all the wrong gear and showed up in running shoes and socks, a Jane Fonda type leotard (minus the leg warmers), hair curled and lacquered, and a face painted in 9-to-5 makeup. Most of the others wore natural beauty and I-don’t-care hair. Mind you, this was 1998, and so much has changed.

I’d spent my 20s and 30s as a swimmer, jogger, and former co-manager of a ladies’ fitness center in South Carolina. I taught high-intensity cardio workouts and thought the only way to torch calories and get fit was hitting it hard enough to hobble with shin splints and sore muscles.

And then came a few surgeries and age-related maladies. When the docs said no more high-impact about ten years ago, I decided to re-visit yoga.

I joined a Bikram studio in Asheville and faithfully entered a room heated to 105 degrees and moved through a sequence of 26 postures for 90 minutes.

It kicked and whittled my waggling behind and cured most of my muscle and joint issues. I began eating better, sleeping more soundly and letting

petty woes and worries float away.

Now called Hot Yoga Asheville, the studio features those same 26 postures along with other classes ranging from a form of Pilates and interval training performed in the heat, to hot power flow and new classes added often enough to keep things fresh.

To supplement these classes, when I don’t feel up to a swelter, I also practice at the Asheville Yoga Center preferring the rigorous Vinyasa flow movements along with Kundalini to incorporate a more spiritual component to my workouts.

My other go-to yoga spot is Asheville Community Yoga in Woodfin where up to 23 classes are offered daily during the week and range from gentle and therapeutic to seriously challenging. The donation-based non-profit center delights and calms with its billowing white fabric flowing from the high ceilings and salt lamps casting amber lighting.

While I sometimes feel like the oldest down-dogger in the rooms, I’ve always enjoyed the welcoming vibe and energy at any yoga studio I’ve visited. And though I remain one of the few in lipstick and pearls, those with artful tats and flowy clothing have never refrained from giving me a nod and beatific smile at the end of class.

Because no matter your job or social status, once gathered in the sacred space of a yoga room, we are all just one tribe.

And on that note, I may just order the “My Other Car is a Yoga Mat” bumper sticker.

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Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 15

»PEOPLE Life Skills Toolbox:

Relationships: Trust & Luck

by Lauren Griffin M.A.

Lauren Griffin, M.A., is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Psychotherapist in private practice in Asheville. Learn more about Lauren’s work at WNCcounseling.com, or call her at 828-782-3388.

S

everal years ago, my client “Heather” shared that after an evening out with friends from work, “Toni” revealed Heather's secret crush on a coworker on a social media site. The week before, Heather accepted Toni's friend request, because she seemed cool, but now Heather felt embarrassed and betrayed.

We all have friends and acquaintances of different levels, but very few relationships with deep trust. And that's actually a good thing. We have a limited amount of time and energy, yet need good relationships with many people. The trick is identifying the best roles for the people in your life, and setting boundaries to make it happen. Heather's faux pas could have been avoided by recognizing that Toni was a work companion, not a friend.

Peace, Love, & Understanding

You can improve the quality of your relationships and 16 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

your sense of how you connect with others. Humans thrive on our connections to one another. We have partners in life, families, friends, spouses, co-workers, competitors, neighbors, employers, and more. Unfortunately, all these relationships come with their own unwritten rules, and can be hard to figure out. Social media can add to the confusion, by implying a false sense of friendship. If we don't figure out the rules for a relationship, there can be substantial consequences, including broken relationships, lost jobs, and estranged friends or family.

A “relationship” is simply any interaction between two or more people, and is not limited to the romantic definition. The Relationship Distiller is a tool that provides the context for interacting with others in various situation and roles. Its purpose is to help you identify your relationships in an easy to understand way, allowing you to explore their full potentials, while minimizing your risk for conflict and disappointment.

Some relationships are very comfortable, while others can be quite irritating. Relationships become problematic when we don't recognize the warning signs of an imbalance brewing between the people involved.

Recognizing these warning signs and taking appropriate action can help nurture a relationship or allow us to exit with less conflict and pain.

Trust and Luck

All relationships are based on trust, even our relationships with strangers.

It's obvious that trust is an important factor with people with whom we have the closest relationships. Less obvious, is that even our most superficial interactions are based on trust, and a little luck.

Should you trust an authority figure because of an impressive title or office? Should you trust the friendly, attractive stranger who strikes up a conversation? Should you trust an honored family member because of his/her wealth? When we learn that trust is earned through actions over time and not through roles, friendliness, proximity, family status or attraction, we can improve the quality of our relationships. It is a myth that titles, status or roles indemnify others as trustworthy or safe. Reserving trust for those who have earned it still allows us to be polite in social situations.

It's crucial to recognize that most of us were raised with the idea that trust is based on our belief, and not facts or experience. In fact, our belief or desire that someone is trustworthy is irrelevant compared to their behavior over time. My grandmother taught me that trust is earned by the drop and lost by the bucketful. While we can never know everything about any person, we can understand patterns of behavior displayed over time. Trust is earned by the other person, it isn't a gift.

The Relationship Distiller

The six types of relationships illustrated by the Relationship Distiller tool seem simple on the surface but it can be difficult to sort through your relationships and view them objectively. The Relationship Distiller can help you determine the optimal level of trust for each relationship type.

Superficial Friends are the first group of people with whom we have friendships based on each other's company. Over time, they have earned our trust with personal information that is not particularly sensitive. We may have numerous Superficial Friends, where conversations are light and low risk.

Close Friends are a smaller group of people with whom we have a friendship, based on each other's company and not a task, situation, or role.

Close Friends have earned our trust over a long period of time in many situations and circumstances. They have proven to be trustworthy and dependable with sensitive and private personal information, and in difficult situations where Superficial Friends might flake out.

Intimate Friends might number between 0 to 4 people, over our entire lifetime! Intimate Friends are not automatically based on roles such as spouse or family. Many people never feel comfortable enough to have relationships at this level. Intimate Friends have earned our complete trust over a very long period of time in many situations and circumstances. The therapeutic counseling relationship mimics this type of friendship.

By knowing these levels of relationships, you can choose before you act or react, anticipating possible consequences that might result. Clearly setting your boundaries allows you to focus your emotional energy and attention on the relationships that reinforce the mutual growth of both people.

•

connect

Strangers are encountered more frequently and at a higher volume than any other group. Frequently, we don't acknowledge Strangers with greetings or conversation, without concern of being rude or hurting their feelings. There is no evidence that Strangers are trustworthy, and there's no basis for safely sharing personal information.

Acquaintances are people who are frequently in our environment and seem familiar. They share no bond or activity with us, but we see them often enough to remember them. We may nod or smile when we see them.

Their familiarity may seem like a basis for trustworthiness, but there is no evidence based on time and experience that they are safe.

Companions are the first group of people with whom we have connections. We share an activity, task or role with them, nothing more. Examples of companions include: co-workers, store clerks, family, competitors, neighbors, hair stylists, server, and more. It may seem that companions are trustworthy with our personal information since we spend a significant amount of time with them, however there is no evidence that they are trustworthy or safe simply by sharing a task or activity. Companion relationships are valuable in our lives and can become very complex and lead to difficulties if not managed well. Over time and with experience, some Companion relationships can develop into friendships.

Lauren Griffin, M.A. Licensed Professional Counselor Psychotherapist WNCcounseling.com 828.782.3388 Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 17

»PEOPLE HOME & GARDEN

A Perfect Day in Salzburg

by Betty Sharpless

Betty Sharpless is a professional free-lance gardener who makes sure to visit every garden she can in every city she visits…

W

hen my travel buddy Terrie picked Austria for our trip last year, I really had no idea what to expect. As a result I was so pleasantly surprised by all Austria, especially Salzburg, had to offer.

Historic Salzburg is made for visiting: beautiful old churches, a castle, a lovely river with many bridges and of course Sound of Music sights!

Our hotel was right on a pedestrian throughway that led down to the historic center. The wide cobblestone way was lined with tempting shops and restaurants. Within one afternoon we had a “favorite” gelato shop and had gotten our bearings.

On this day we started with a yummy pastry on our way to a lovely very old church at the farthest end of the historic area high on one of the two hills that cradle Salzburg. Over one bridge, up one very steep path of ancient stone steps and we were at Mullner Kirche overlooking the entire city. This somber church was so intriguing with a small cemetery and chapel within it’s walled garden.

Inside, the main church was a jewel box of lovely art and intricately carved wood. An added bonus: it was already decorated for a later wedding. So beautiful!

Working our way back down we crossed the lover’s bridge, its fencing covered with thousands of padlocks of pledged love sparkling in the sun and back to the lovely Mirabelle Gardens, sight of the Von Trapp’s singing on the park steps. This lovely park is centrally located with Mozart’s house as its neighbor. It features lovely old trees, flowered paths and fountains. Just across from it we peeked in to Dreifaltig Keits Kirche (Holy Trinity Church). This very simple gothic church had a circular seating arrangement … the first I have ever seen in a Catholic Church. It also had a sign advertising an evening performance …

Back across the river to the lovely Italian restaurant Pipo’s with a view out across the old town’s market plaza. We enjoyed beautiful wine and a mushroom rissoto. After lunch we went separate ways: me to seek out the Nonnberg Priory were “Maria’s always singing in the abbey.” Such a serene, simple and lovely church. Terrie headed back to Mirabelle Gardens to say goodbye to her favorite old tree and bench.

We met again for the concert at the church … now completely open so we could see the entire interior. The introductions included the fact that Mozart used this church and this very organ to rehearse new music! Three petite women, an organist, a soprano and a violinist, blew us away with the most ethereal and beautiful performance I have ever heard. The church’s acoustics enhanced every note. What a perfect way to end a day of adventure.

Well, actually, the double gelatos we had on the way back to our hotel were pretty darn good too!

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18 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 19

»HOME & GARDEN

Garden Bloomers:

Herbs for Beginners

W

ant to get into growing your own plants but at a loss as to where to start? Start with herbs!

Herbs can easily be grown in containers on a sunny porch or balcony. Today’s herbs are descended from good tasting weeds. They just require full sun, occasional watering, good drainage and some dirt. Any dirt.

oregano, silver thyme, lemon time, chives, parsley, tarragon and purple sage.

Plant the tarragon, parsley, chives and sage in the center of the pot. These plants all grow tall. Space the thymes and oregano around the outside of the pot as they cascade as they grow. There is no need to fertilize until a year from now, as the soil mix comes with fertilizer built in. Water your pot only once a week and then only sparsely.

Most herbs are sturdy and evergreen. It’s so easy to have fresh green herbs to throw into omelets, soups and your very own Pad Thai. With the exception of basils, you can care for just one pot to flavor all of your cooking year Betty Sharpless is a round. Start with a good size pot with a few holes in the free-lance gardener, writer bottom for drainage and a saucer to catch any run off. and quilter who loves to introduce brown thumbs to If you have a large coffee filter, lay it over the holes to the green thumb club. keep dirt from rinsing out of the pot. Place 2 inches of pebbles or gravel in the pot. Use a good potting soil such as Miracle Gro Moisture Control to fill the pot 2/3rds of the way up.

How do you harvest your new garden? Herbs actually love to be snipped for cooking. Use parsley and thymes in your scrambled eggs in the morning.

Cooking chicken or turkey? Sage is your best friend. Combine sage, garlic and lemon wedges and you are on your way to gourmet dinners. Pasta? Add parsley, oregano and a little thyme to pasta with butter, garlic and Italian cheeses and you have instant comfort food. Any dish you can think of is going to be better with fresh, not dried, herbs.

by Betty Sharpless

Get your plants from a nursery, not a grocery store. A good start would be 20 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

Once it is warm outside … like southern Italy warm …go ahead and plant a big pot of basil. It will last until the first frost. Just before that night, cut all your basil and turn it into pesto. Package it in small freezer containers for great Italian all winter.

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Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 21

The lowdown on yoga studios in WNC yo

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assag

dm ga an

Yam — Yoga & Massage

Asheville

R

eceive 1-month free, a free gift, and no registration fee with your 12-month membership! Enjoy unlimited access to our newly renovated Get one month fitness center; pool; all aquatfree! ics and group When you join with a fitness classes; and, dozens 12-month agreement of weekly YOGA classes including core, gentle, chair, restorative, beginning, intermediate, Yin and back care. Membership supports racial justice and women’s empowerment programs. Learn more at www.ywcaofasheville.org.

Our Values:

• A Compassionate Community • Respect • A Healthy, Balanced Lifestyle • Honesty and Integrity • Non-violence • Collaboration • Justice and Fairness • The Dignity of All People

T

he Shift is a yoga & wellness studio founded in 2015 and located in the heart of Hendersonville, NC. The Shift is a place to "come be yourself" — to nurture your inner knowing with joy and intention. Our students find a sense of community here and, together, we receive the benefits of physical practice, meaningful engagement, connection, and improve balance, strength, & Locals Receive flexibility. Whether a Complimentary you are new to Yoga, or have practiced Class! for years, we have classes for all levels and abilities. With curiosity, intention, and trust The Shift is a place to stretch, learn, and heal.

Visit The Shift to:

• Enjoy a variety of Yoga & Tai Chi classes • Find comfort on our joint-friendly specialty mat-flooring • Walk our 7-circuit chartres labyrinth • Heal through gong vibrations • Rent our treatment room or main studio for special events • Bring your children to come play Yoga • Enjoy specialty classes like Nia & Qoya

Y

AM is a wellness studio that offers the complementary therapies of yoga, infrared heat, and massage. We provide a welcoming and supportive $35 Two Week atmosphere where people of Unlimited Yoga all ages, physical 10% off 90 minute conditions, and fitness levels can massage optimize their body’s capacity to heal and strengthen. The shared benefits of yoga practice, infrared heat, and therapeutic massage increase circulation, improve range of motion, boost immune function, reduce pain, and deeply relieve tension in the body. Our goal is to provide you with a warm space to de-stress while exploring and enhancing your connection with your body and mind.

What We Offer:

• Intro Yoga Series • Hot Yoga • Traditional Yoga • Gentle Yoga for Back Care • Workshops • Yoga Teacher Training • Onsite Massage Therapy

YWCA Asheville

The Shift — Where Science Meets Spirit

Yam — Yoga and Massage

ywcaofasheville.org

TheShiftStudio.com

iamyam.com

185 S. French Broad Ave. Asheville, NC 28801 (828) 254-7206 22 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

708 B Fleming St., Hendersonville, NC 28791 828-450-1166

410 S. King Street Hendersonville, NC 28792 828-214-7947

Health benefits of meditation

M H

YA specializes in Hot Power Flow, Hot 26, Restorative Yin, Inferno Core, Therapeutics, and More! When you leave class, you’ll feel empowered and able to crush life! We are thrilled to share our fun, therapeutic yoga classes with you. See why Ashevillians love our Asheville’s clean, spacious, friendly studio!

Best Hot Yoga Our classes are incredStudio: WNC ible for all levels. You will find the balance Winner 10 between fitness and Years! therapy in our sessions.

Some days you’ll turn up the dial on fitness, other days you are just there for some physical and — let’s be honest —- emotional therapy. We’ve got you covered!

At Hot Yoga Asheville we strive to create an open, loving, non-judgmental community where people feel safe and inspired to bring about healing and awareness through a consistent yoga practice.

In a supportive community we are empowered to connect to what really matters so in turn affect positive change in the world...even when it’s hard.

Explore our website and visit our yoga studio in Asheville, NC soon! It’s easy! 30 Days for $30 gets you started!

Hot Yoga Asheville

802 Fairview Road, #100, Asheville, NC 28803 (828) 299-7003

hotyogaasheville.com

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AVE Studios is a dance, yoga, and fitness studio located in North Asheville. Founded by professional ballroom dancers Jake & Meghan Lavender, WAVE encourages its members to lead happier, healthier lives through MOVEMENT. The studio’s brand new Yoga Intro Offer program was introduced in One Week Unlimited Spring of 2018, featuring an Yoga Only $20 eclectic mix of class styles and a signature upbeat vibe. Our classes are laugherfilled, laid-back, and truly beginner friendly. We pride ourselves on providing positive yoga experiences for all of our members, at any level. WAVE has curated a program that emphasizes the many physical and mental benefits of a regular yoga practice, paying special attention to proper breathing and body alignment.

Our Yoga Classes: • Empower Yoga • Beginner Yoga • Yoga Sculpt • Flow & Roll • Align & Flow • Restorative Yoga

Wave Studios

51 N Merrimon Ave, Unit 107 Asheville, NC 28804 828-575-0905

waveasheville.com

editation is often trumped as a means to reducing stress and restoring healthy function in the body. While meditation might once have been considered a New Age treatment, in recent years it has developed into a mainstream practice supported by both traditional and alternative medical providers.

The Mayo Clinic says that anyone can practice meditation. A cost-effective treatment that does not require any special equipment or location, meditation has been practiced for thousands of years.

Various studies show that meditation can be associated with improvement of a variety of issues. Researchers describe meditation-based changes as ones that actually change the brain.

Changes in the circuitry of the brain may affect the way a person responds to specific situations.

The following are a few ways to put mindful meditation to use.

• Strengthen cognitive function: Dr. Sara Lazar, a neuroscientist at Massachusetts General Hospital, says meditation can help thicken the prefrontal cortex of the brain, helping to reverse the pattern of cognitive function decline as one ages.

• Protect against heart disease: There is some indication that meditation can reduce concentrations of the marker C-reactive protein, which is associated with the development of heart disease.

• Stimulate the immune system: A study published in the journal Psychosomatic Medicine found that mindfulness meditation increases electrical activity in the areas of the prefrontal cortex that serve as the command center for the immune system.

• Reduce blood pressure: The stress-boosting properties of meditation can help reduce hypertension. Researchers at the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine attribute this to the increase of nitric oxide during meditation.

Nitric oxide gas can expand blood vessels and open up blood channels.

By Metro Creative Connection

Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 23

»FITNESS

More Than a Workout: A Quick Look at the History and Sacred Practice of Yoga

by Meghan Lavender

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ew things have gripped the Western World with such tenacity as the Eastern practice of Yoga. What began as a study of self discovery by Vedic priests over 5,000 years ago, has evolved many times over into a multi-faceted physical & mental exercise distributed widely to the masses. The history of Yoga, and its many current forms, are the subject of much debate within the academic Yoga community. However, with over 27 MILLION people in the United States practicing yoga regularly, there is no denying the mass appeal of this ancient practice.

WHAT IS YOGA?

The word yoga is derived from the Sanskrit root yuj which means “to join, unite, or yoke.” The spiritual usage of the word was first introduced by an ancient Indian text, Yoga Sutras of Patanjali, which acted as a written guide to uniting (or “yoking”) the human spirit with the Divine. Patanjali offered guidance to living a purposeful and meaningful life through the 8 “limbs” of yoga. The Western culture in recent years has focused primarily on two of Patanjali’s limbs: Asana (posture) and Pranayama (breathing techniques). Most American Yoga classes tend to focus on linking movement between yoga postures with mindful breath-work, which has become the most widely understood definition of “yoga” here in the US. It is important to note, however, that traditional Yoga practices included much more than poses & breathing, but also moral discipline, positive duties, sense withdrawal, and focused concentration.

Meghan is the co-owner of Wave Studios in Asheville.

You can find out more about their yoga classes online at waveasheville. com

WHY PRACTICE YOGA?

There are many physical and mental benefits to a regular yoga practice. On the physical front, yoga can improve balance, flexibility, strength, and body awareness. Certain postures can help lower blood pressure, aid in digestion, improve circulation, and release built up tension. Mentally, the use of focused concentration and meditation can help quiet the mind, sharpen attention, relieve stress, and calm the nervous system. People come to yoga for a multitude of reasons, and those reasons can and will change as their practice evolves. Some begin their practice strictly for physical fitness, while others are drawn to the more spiritual side of yoga. However, regardless of a person’s initial reasons for practicing, most yogis will agree that they ended up gaining much more than they ever anticipated, physically, mentally and emotionally.

WHO CAN DO YOGA?

One of the most wide-spread misconceptions about yoga is that one must be flexible already in order to participate. This is simply not true. Yoga is a journey, not a destination — anyone can take part, at any age and at any level of experience. The key is to find the class, instructor, and studio that inspires you and makes you feel comfortable along the way. Whether your goal is relaxation, concentration, or improved movement, almost all yoga studios offer a beginner level class focused on introducing the most basic concepts of posture & breath work. From there, you can branch out into other styles or methods that peak your interest. And always remember, it’s called yoga practice, not yoga perfect. • 24 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

Photos by: Max Ganly Model: Kelly Bailey, RYT-500 Instructor at Wave Studios

A Few Basic Yoga Poses DOWNWARD-FACING DOG

This is an inversion that opens up the entire body and can stretch the spine and the back of the legs. The back should be straight and the tailbone should be pulled away so your body forms a "V" shape.

TREE POSE

Tree pose is an introduction to balance poses.

You stand on one foot as the other lays nestled against the thigh, calf or ankle on the standing leg. Avoid resting your foot on your knee.

CAMEL POSE

Camel Pose is a backbend that stretches the whole front of the body. It is performed on the knees and is often used as preparation for deeper backbends.

If this is too much, you can take a modiďŹ cation with hands on the lower back (see left).

SEATED FORWARD FOLD

When performing a forward fold, you are bending over from the waist. Having a straight spine is more important than having straight legs. Use a strap (as shown) if you can’t reach your toes.

Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 25

»FITNESS

Yoga, Meditation and Mindfulness

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ogis have been practicing meditation for many, many years. Some might say that the practice of yoga comes from the roots of meditation, as a framework for the purpose of the postures as a pathway to find the mind, body, spirit connection. To find that connection we use meditation as the base. The modern-day yoga movement, which mainly focuses on posture and breathing exercises, is an adaptation of the hundreds of yoga schools. In general, yoga at its core is meditation and a spiritual practice.

When connecting to the spirit it does not mean religion, it just means to connect with the self and the higher self. To connect yogis use the breath. The focus on breathing is what makes yoga a unique practice in life.

In addition to the use of meditation, a more mainstream term is the idea of mindfulness. Mindfulness means maintaining a present-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, or surrounding environment. It also includes the intentional nurturing of positive states of mind such as kindness and compassion. Mindfulness can be more attainable by popular society because it is a state of being not necessarily a place outside of everyday life.

Mindfulness can be traced back thousands of years to ancient practices and traditions. Mindfulness-Based Interventions have thirty plus years of research and development behind them, beginning with the work of Jon Kabat-Zinn and Mindfulness Based Stress Reduction. This research supports the benefits of mindfulness to reduce stress and achieve a healthy lifestyle. We practice this even with young children. It can be a lifelong skill that the sooner we start the better the benefits.

•

Christine Garman, M.Ed., RYT, RCYT lives in Virginia and is the Mindful Schools Facilitator Director at Yoga Foundation of Fredericksburg (YOFO), a non-profit yoga studio and community-based program that brings yoga and mindfulness to under-served populations. Learn more at yogaforeveryone.org.

26 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

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»FASHION

Hot & Cold

»FASHION

Hot Style Trends for a Cold Winter

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he winter months in Asheville can be downright cold, and sometimes there’s the occasional snow and freezing rain. When unprepared, inclement weather is miserable, but with the right winter essentials, not only can you be cozy and warm, but stylish too. Check out these style tips to ensure your winter wardrobe is fashion-forward yet functional enough to handle any weather.

Rosy Pastels and Earthy Neutrals

Shades of dusty rose and rose gold have been a huge color trend throughout 2018 and will continue to be popular in 2019. These pastel rose colors are beautiful against the backdrop of snow and can brighten up winter’s drab, gray weather. Other color trends to look for are rich neutral colors. The

Pantone Color Report suggests colors like Martini Olive and Almond Buff.

Fuzzy, Faux Fur

Whether as a vest or an accent on a jacket or hat, faux fur can provide a warm, cozy feel. It gives winter looks added texture and a fun, more refined look. This winter look for faux fur on the trim of jackets and pom poms of hats. Take your winter look to the next level by pairing a faux fur vest over top of your outfit.

Fashion-Forward Jackets

Bulky winter jackets that lack tailoring can look frumpy. Instead, opt for a long, belted coat that cinches your waist or that flatters your figure. Quilted jackets, especially those quilted with down, are very “in” this winter and provide plenty of warmth in even the coldest temperatures.

Stylish Boots

Nothing completes a winter outfit like a great pair of boots. Both thigh-high boots and booties are in style this season. Or, if you’re looking for something a little more comfy, faux shearling boots are perfect for enjoying a relaxing evening by the fire.

Fingerless Gloves

When it’s chilly outside, gloves come in handy.

But, it can be a challenge to work your phone or go about tasks with gloves on. Instead, opt for fingerless gloves that have been a trend in recent years. You can even find fingerless gloves that convert to mittens, so you can pull the mittens over your hands if your fingers get too cold.

Ear Muffs

Although ear muffs were on-trend in the 80s, this style has come back around. While a hat can leave your hair a mess, ear muffs offer a stylish solution. Ear muffs are available at a variety of stores in assorted colors and options. Faux fur ear muffs can complement outfits well. If you’re looking to make a statement, the bigger the better.

The Best Place to Enjoy Winter Weather

Asheville’s historic The Omni Grove Park Inn is an exciting escape with stunning views, showcasing the beauty of the snow-covered landscape. Whether it’s snowing, raining or even just cold, the Grove Park offers a roaring fire in its impressive fireplace and guests can enjoy warm drinks at the Sunset Cocktail Terrace. If you’re looking for further warmth and relaxation, the Grove Park’s spa is not-to-miss. In fact, several photos from our style spread were shot at the Grove Park Inn! Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 31

»FASHION

FASHION CREDITS: PHOTOGRAPHY BY:

828.738.MAXX www.maxganly.com GET THE LOOK:

FASHION COORDINATOR: Sarah Merrell MODEL: Tracy Pritchett DOG MODEL:

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Grove Park Inn 290 Macon Ave Asheville, NC 28804 omnihotels.com AND SOUTH ASHEVILLE

»ENTERTAINMENT

Betty’s Book Review:

An American Marriage

By Tayari Jones

by Betty Sharpless

Betty Sharpless is a professional free-lance gardener, writer and quilter looking forward to a big fat book, her two kitties and a snowy weekend this winter.

I

selected this book after Amazon, NPR and Orah’s book list recommended it to me. I am sure there are more accolades out there, but this was enough to make me want to read it. Once again, readers, I am recommending a book that is a difficult read, but well worth it. I promise, I will pick something frivolous next issue!

An American Marriage follows the lives of Roy and Celestial, a young married couple, and their friend Andre after a trip home to Louisiana turns their lives inside out. Roy is falsely accused of a crime that sends him to jail after a quick and flimsy trial. As improbable as this may seem, it is a common experience

34 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

for many Americans of colors that are not white.

I loved that the book let each of the main characters tell the story from their own perspective. The plot that seems simple has many unexpected side roads. The author lets each person plead their case as these side roads appear. What struck me a few days after finishing the book and trying to put my finger on my disquiet was that all of the men’s difficulties were a result of the actions of women.

I found this ironic in a book that was written by a young professional woman. Despite all of the efforts of feminists to level the playing field, women still get the blame in 2018.

Still, it is a good read, although something a little outside of my usual reading style. I recently read a quote that said: “If a book does not make you uncomfortable or make you question, it is not worth reading.” This book is indeed worth reading.

•

«

ENTERTAINMENT

Meg’s Movie Review: Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald

by Meg Hale Brunton

Meg Hale Brunton reviews movies for Sophie every month. She has a Creative Writing degree from UNCA, loves fresh made popcorn, and throws an annual Oscar party at her house

L

et me begin with a confession: I have not read the Harry Potter books. I was looking forward to experiencing them for the first time, reading them to my son when he’s old enough. When the movies first came out, I was enjoying them so much that I didn’t take the time to appreciate the books. For those movies, whenever some plot point was unclear to me, I just assumed that it was something that had to be read to be understood. With the newest Wizarding World film installment of “Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald,” that is not the case. There is no book that it is based on. So, if something in the movie doesn’t make sense to me, there’s a good chance the rest of the audience is confused too.

Since this film series is based on a character, rather than a story, it is easy to see how the plotline could get a touch sloppy. The first film, “Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them,” has the sole purpose of introducing the character of Newt Scamander, played by the astounding Eddie Redmayne (“The Theory of Everything”). That movie is basically a magical creature nature documentary, led by Scamander, and requires very little plot beyond that to be enjoyable. The new movie, however, is not only tasked with introducing the plot, it also introduces the nemesis: Grindelwald.

Grindelwald, played by Johnny Depp (“Edward Scissorhands”), is a dark wizard who has escaped the clutches of the wizard world’s governing body to spearhead a movement to make wizards the dominant force in the world over humankind. In truth, Grindelwald’s real nemesis is probably Albus

Dumbledore, played by Jude Law (“Cold Mountain”). Both veteran actors, and regular Oscar snubs, Depp and Law make nice additions to the cast, but can’t hold a candle to Redmayne’s awkward, quirky portrayal of Scamander.

So, Grindelwald sets out to do generally wicked wizardry that will, hopefully, result in world domination. Dumbledore, who is unable to take on the fight himself, sends the unlikely hero of Scamander with the flimsy reason that there is a rare creature called an Obscurial involved. Scamander brings along with him Jacob (played by Dan Fogler), the same No-Mag/Muggle man that he bonded with in the first movie. And the whole thing culminates in an arena beneath the family crypt of Scamander’s ex-girlfriend, who is engaged to his brother, Theseus. First off, you can tell that it’s not J.K. Rowling’s best work. Secondly, why is there an arena underneath a crypt? And thirdly, what kind of jerks do the Scamander parents have to be to name one son Theseus, and the other Newt?

The true star of “The Crimes of Grindelwald” are the astounding visual effects. The audience is given plenty to “Oooh” and “Aaah” over, and don’t need to worry too much about the fact that they are never actually told what Gindelwald’s crimes are in the first place. The movie is just so much fun to watch for the magical beasts, sensational effects, and even great costumes.

I’m not much of a clothes-horse, but I spent a lot of time looking at the fabulous dresses, hats and shoes worn by the women in the cast, especially by femme fatale Leta Lestrange, played by the stunning Zoe Kravitz (“Divergent”). I’m predicting a definite nomination for Costume Design for this film!

It did seem like the writers had to work really hard to fit in some of the creatures that made the film series work in the first place. The movie still features some favorites from the previous film, like the Niffler and Bowtruckle, that are adorable but contribute very little to the story. The new beasts also seem to have an Asian influence, featuring a Vietnamese Naga, Japanese Water Demon, and a Chinese Zouwu. I thought it was an excellent way to liven up Rowling’s usual bunch of Greek-mythology-based creatures.

“Fantastic Beasts: The Crimes of Grindelwald” is plenty of holiday fun for the whole family and serves its purpose of getting us through to the next movie, but I doubt it will be looked back on as one of the better films of the 5-part Fantastic Beasts set. And certainly, don’t measure it by standards set by the Harry Potter movies. I give this film 7 out of 10 stars.

•

Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 35

»COMMUNITY

JAN NUNSENSE-A-MEN

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JANUARY/FEBRUARY HAVE EVENT? HAVEAN AN EVENT?

JANUARY JAN LAKE LURE POLAR

PLUNGE NEW YEARS DAY 2019 Hundreds of brave (and crazy) people take the 10th annual New Year’s Polar Plunge at Lake Lure and freeze for a reason – to support local charities. Many more come to watch the fun, complete with bonfires to keep warm! The chilly dip takes place on New Year’s Day at 12 Noon.

Registration is 9 until 11:30 AM. It’s a very festive time with fantastic costumes and a live DJ.

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Tuesday, January 1, beginning at 10:30 at Lake Lure. The cost of the Plunge is

Submit your events online: sophiemagazine.com/calendar or send events via email: calendar@sophiemagazine.com

just $20 and includes a commemorative medal. They will have also towels and sweatshirts for sale.

JAN FIRST DAY HIKES

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The North Carolina’s state parks offer free guided First Day Hikes on January 1, the perfect chance to begin the New Year with a resolution for exercise and a connection with nature. Here are the 2019 hikes at the parks near Asheville in western North Carolina: Chimney Rock Park, Mt Mitchell State Park, Gorges State Park, Lake James State Park, South Mountains State Park. Tuesday, January 1. Tours start at

JAN 2ND ANNUAL WOMAN IN MUSIC

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In 2018, four of Asheville’s predominant singer/ songwriters got together and payed tribute to three celebrated icons in a sold out and highly praised show. This year, the show has grown and now includes six local favorites; Jane Kramer, Aubrey Eisenman, Anya Hinkle, Anna Kline, Amanda Anne Platt and Hannah Kaminer have teamed up to cover the works of Dolly Parton, Stevie Nicks and Kate Wolf in a full sound delivery! Saturday, January 6, 7:30PM at ISIS Music Hall. Tickets: $20. More info and tickets at isisasheville. com.

36 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

different times. Check stateparks.org for more info.

JAN ASHEVILLE GALLERY OF

ART JANUARY ART SHOW Asheville Gallery of Art’s January 2019 show, “A Colorful Beginning” ushers in the year with an expressive interpretation of color by more than 20 member artists. The show runs January 2-31 during gallery hours, 11AM - 6PM Monday through Saturday and 11AM - 4PM Sunday. The gallery, located at 82 Patton Avenue in downtown Asheville across from Pritchard Park, will host a reception for the artists on Friday, January 4, from 5-8PM Everyone is cordially invited to stop by.

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 Wednesday, January 2 - Thursday, January 31 at 82 Patton Avenue. The gallery is open 11AM-6PM Monday through Saturday and 11AM-4PM on Sunday. More info at ashevillegallery-ofart.com.

JAN WINTERFEST BEER

FESTIVAL AT BEECH MOUNTAIN Sample 40 beers and ciders from North Carolina breweries indoors at Beech Mountain ski resort, 4-8 PM. Live music and shuttle. Great way to end a day of play on the slopes. $35/person in advance. $45 at door.

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 Saturday, January 5, 4-8PM at Beech Mountain. More info at beechmtn.com.

When the Little Sisters of Hoboken — comprised of a former circus performer, a wannabe ballerina, a streetwise nun, a sister that’s lost her mind, and an overly ambitious second in command — discover that their cook, Sister Julia Child of God has poisoned 52 of their sisters, they must raise money to bury their dead.

Think Mrs. Doubtfire goes to the convent for this delightfully funny and heartfelt show.  Friday, January 11 - Sunday, January 27 at the Asheville Community Theatre. More info and tickets at ashevilletheatre.org.

JAN A SIMPLE SPACE

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As a multiple awardwinning performance group described by UK Express as “Cirque du Soleil with a fistful of grit,” A Simple Space pushes the limits of performance art by defying gravity as they are tossed weightlessly through the air.  Saturday, January 12, 2:00 & 7:00PM at Diana Wortham Theatre in downtown Asheville. Box Office: 828-257-4530 or www.dwtheatre.com.

JAN WOMEN’S MARCH 2019

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We are outraged. We are organized. They forgot that 5 million women lit the world on fire two years ago. On January 19, 2019, we’re going to remind them when we flood the streets of Asheville, NC and cities across the globe.  Saturday, January 19 10AM-3PM.

JAN ASHEVILLE FRINGE ARTS

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FESTIVAL Local and national artists explore the edges of their work, collaborate across genres and bring innovative performances to culturally adventurous audiences.

Includes dancers, installation artists, theatre companies, Butoh dance, puppetry, modern dance, and performance art.  Sunday, January 20 to Sunday, January 27. More info at ashevillefringe.org.

JAN JEEVES AT SEA @ NC

STAGE THEATRE Set sail for laughter as Bertie Wooster revels in aboard the Vanderley FEB life yacht. Bertie is the pampered guest of the lively Lady Stella (very fetching profile), accompanied, as always, by his peerless valet, Jeeves. If only Bertie’s pal Crumpet hadn’t assaulted a prince. In the blink of an eye, Bertie is masquerading as a romance novelist, Crumpet’s posing as his own long-lost twin, and a sinister foreign count is challenging Bertie to a duel. Will this madcap case of mistaken identities end in Bertie’s doom–or worse, his marriage? Have no fear; Jeeves will sort it all out.

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 Jan. 23rd — Feb. 17th. Wednesdays – Saturdays at 7:30pm and Sunday Matinees at 2:00pm. More info at ncstage.org.

JAN 2ND ANNUAL ONESIE

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BAR CRAWL We are back again bringing you the biggest and best 2nd Annul Onesie Bar Crawl on January 26th. Join hundreds of crawlers dressed up in their best Onsies, PJ’s, Masterworks 4 celebrates the work of four very distinct French composers. Offenbach’s Overture to Gaîté Parisienne, inspired by the amorous high spirits of the City of Lighta, sets the scene. Cellist Daniel Kaler, winner of the Payne Prize, will dazzle with Saint-Saëns’ Cello Concerto. The Asheville Symphony Chorus then takes the stage to present Poulenc’s delightful and mystic Gloria. We finish, with Berlioz’s grandiose La Marseillaise.  Saturday, Jan. 19, 2019, 8PM at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium.

More info and tickets at ashevillesymphony.org.

Sweatpants, or Snuggie.

Tickets Include: • Onesie Bar Crawl T-Shirt. (At after party. Will you make it?)

• Onesie Crawl Koozie & More Giveaways at reg. • Comp beer during crawl. • Discounted Drink specials during the crawl.

• DJ’s at multiple locations. • Professional photographer on site. • Hundreds of crawlers in their best onesies. • The only crawl to start with one registration party & end with one epic onesie after party.  Saturday, January 27 2-10PM. Tickets $16-$20.

FEBRUARY FEB FOOTLOOSE MUSICAL

When teenager Ren McCormack moves from Chicago to a small MAR town, he isn’t prepared for the stifling local laws, including a ban on dancing and rock music instituted by the local preacher. As he struggles to fit in, he encourages his classmates to defy the local pastor and call for a rock’n’roll prom. With an energetic Top 40 score amplified with dynamic new songs,

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OFFENBACH, SAINT JAN SAËNS, POULENC, BERLIOZ 19

FEB OUTHOUSE RACES

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Crazy? Maybe. Dangerous? Perhaps. Fun? Without a doubt! You won’t find Outhouse Races on Snow anywhere else in North Carolina!

Dozens of outhouses race to compete for the throne. Spectators come from throughout the southeast to line the course and cheer on those brave enough to see if the outhouse crashes and burns or sails across the finish line. The Outhouse Races have been named a ‘Top 20’ event in the Southeast for February by Southeast Tourism Society  Saturday, February 16, 11AM - 3PM at Sapphire Valley Resort. More info at sapphirevalley.com

Footloose celebrates the wisdom of opening minds and listening to the voices of young people. A musical version of the 1984 film.  February 8-March 3, Fridays and Saturdays at 7:30 pm; Sundays at 2:30 pm; Additional Thursday performances 2/21 and 2/28 at 7:30 pm ashevilletheatre.org.

FEB ARTS & CRAFTS

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CONFERENCE Perfect for the passionate collector or those just interested in the Arts and Crafts period. The three-day agenda includes lectures, small group discussions, special exhibitions, book exhibits, a contemporary crafts show and the finest of the antiques shows devoted to the Arts and Crafts period.  Friday, February 15 to Sunday, February 17 at the Grove Park Inn.

FEB TOTALLY 80S RETRO SKI

WEEKEND The third weekend in February is Beech Mountain’s 8th Annual Retro 80’s celebration.

From Thursday February 21st

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through Sunday, February 24, 2019, visitors can travel back in time to the decade of big hair, neon colors, leg warmers and shoulder pads. Be sure to keep an eye out for the Stay-Puft Marshmallow Man and the Bear from Hot Tub Time Machine, as well as lots of locals dressed in 80’s regalia.  Thursday, February 21 - Sunday, February 24 at Beech Mountain Resort.

More info at beechmtn.com.

FEB MASTERWORKS 5:

KODÁLY, DVORÁK, BEETHOVEN The three very distinct composers presented on this concert all found great inspiration in connecting with their roots.

Zoltan Kodály’s Dances of Galánta are a collection of village dances reimagined as a symphonic work and transformed with colors of the modern symphony orchestra.

Next, Alexi Kenney, winner of the 2016 Avery Fisher Career Grant, brings his unique perspective to Dvorak’s Violin Concerto — full of lyricism inspired by the rich Czech folkloric tradition.

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The concert’s centerpiece is Beethoven’s beloved “Pastoral” symphony, which was inspired by the composer’s love of the countryside.  Saturday, February 23, 8PM at Thomas Wolfe Auditorium. More info and tickets at ashevillesymphony.org.

Arts Council Refinery Creator Space at 207 Coxe Avenue. Inside the building are 5 studios which offer classes in addition to three exhibit galleries. Majik Studios is in Studio #13 and has a group of artists teaching a variety of subjects in 2-3 hour times Monday-Saturday throughout the year. Friday, January 4 and Friday, February

ONGOING EVENTS IN TIMES OF SEISMIC SORROWS

August 21, 2018 - January 26, 2019 When reflecting on the current state of the environment, it seems that we have entered into times of seismic sorrows.

Carbon emissions, water pollution, fracking, and changing climate patterns all point to a troubling reality with serious consequences for human and non-human populations. Through weavings, installations, sculpture, and print, artists Rena Detrixhe and Tali Weinberg (Tulsa, OK) explore the complex relationship between humans and the planet, offering insights, expressing grief, and creating space for resilience and change.

1 at Majik Studios. More info at majikstudios.com.

DINNERS AT THE HISTORIC PRINCESS ANNE HOTEL

Recurring weekly on Friday, Saturday Join us at the Historic Princess Anne Hotel for dinners! We are happy to open our doors to locals, tourist and more! Our in house chef, Todd Ritter has prepared a wonderfully unique menu. We are open to the public every Friday and Saturday starting at 5. Give us a call to make reservations 828-258-0986  Recurring weekly on Friday, Saturday at the Princess Anne Hotel. More info at princessannehotel.com.

Center for Craft. Admission is free.

FIRST FRIDAYS

BEGINNING KNITTING WORKSHOP

January 10 at 10AM - 12PM Who doesn’t fantasize about sitting in front of a fireplace (or gathering around

FORAGING TOUR Ready to go WILD? Join us “off the eaten path” as we uncover edible greens, berries, mushrooms, flowers, nuts, roots. We’ll meet ten to twenty wild foods, focusing on the ones you might find in your own woods or backyard. Then you get to eat what you’ve found!  Recurring weekly on Saturday. $75-$30 per person. More info at notastelikehome.org.

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Thursday, January 10, 10AM-12PM. Admission: $65. More info at purplecrayonavl.com.

GROUP STITCHING FOR CHARITY SEEKS NEW MEMBERS

Next monthly meeting will be Monday, January 14 Stitches of Love (formerly the WNC Knitters and Crocheters for Others-Arden) is a group of talented people who have created and donated over 20,000 handmade articles to local charities in the past ten years.. We meet monthly at New Hope Presbyterian Church in Asheville. All skill levels are welcome. Monday, January 14, 7-9PM. New Hope Presbyterian Church, 3070 Sweeten Creek Road, Asheville.

A VANDERBILT HOUSE PARTY: THE GILDED AGE AT BILTMORE

Open daily from 10AM to 6PM at the

January 4 & February 1 Downtown Asheville Art Association Art Walk happens every First Friday of the month. The self-guided walking tour takes you through the art district of Asheville, and brings you to the Asheville Area

Purple Crayon’s Stitching Circle!), in the dead of winter, knitting? Whether you’re completely new to the craft, have tried to learn to knit and failed, or simply want a refresher, this fun, four-week course is for you!

February 8-May 27 See Biltmore’s fifth annual elaborate clothing exhibition, A Vanderbilt House Party: The Gilded Age, displayed throughout the grand rooms inside Biltmore House!

You’ll imagine yourself as a cherished guest at one of George and Edith Vanderbilt’s grand turn-of-the-century house parties. Through audio storytelling and elegant clothing meticulously recreated from archival Vanderbilt photos, hear and see fascinating stories of how they entertained their guests. They definitely knew how to do it in style! For more info and to buy tickets visit biltmore.com.

CLASSES & WORKSHOPS A WILD FOOD STROLL AT THE GROVE PARK INN

Ready to go WILD? Join us for a trip “off the eaten path.” You’ll learn how to safely gather edible wild plants, mushrooms, and other “extreme cuisine.” Stay for a stunning view of the sunset and enjoy dinner at Vue 1913 featuring a free appetizer with

the edibles you met on your tour.

Suitable for all ages and abilities.  November 09, 2018 - March 08, 2019. Reoccurring weekly on Friday.

Tickets are $40. More info at notastelikehome.org.

WOMEN’S FINANCIAL EMPOWERMENT CLASSES

The Financial Empowerment Center at OnTrack WNC offers a full range of financial counseling & education services with a women-centered approach, responding to unique needs & perspectives, to help you reach your financial goals.  OnTrack WNC Offices, 50 French Broad Ave. Most classes are free, pre-registration required. Call 828255-5166 to register. ontrackwnc. org

THE VILLAGE POTTER

A range of classes for adults designed to welcome the beginner, welcome back the prodigal potter, guide a new enthusiast to the next steps and offer mentorship for those wanting to explore their skills and learn from a generous community of artists.  The Village Potter, 191 Lyman Street, #180. For current class offerings and to register call 828-253-2424 or visit thevillagepotters.com

CHAIR CANING WORKSHOPS The nation’s only chair caning school & museum is operated by Brandy Clements & Dave Klingler, who are on a mission to revive a “dying art.” Its an experiential education opportunity for all ages. Classes range from short 3 hour workshops to day-long, weeklong, and 2-week intensives.  Silver River Center for Chair Caning.

For complete class listings and more info visit silverriverchairs.com

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS ONLINE: sophiemagazine.com/calendar

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Sophie Classifieds TO ADVERTISE call 828-274-2222 for details.

Real Estate

98 +/- Acres of rolling pasture, mountain views. Charming 3 bed/2 bath move in ready farmhouse. Several building spots. In Green Mountain, NC $545,000.00 828-208-0734

For Sale

Antiques ANTIQUE MALL!! Don’t let the winter blues get you down, look for some cool deals at the Valley Beautiful Antique Mall.

INVENTORY REDUCTION SALE. 50-75% OFF EVERYTHING IN THE MALL. Located at 109 South Main Street in downtown ERWIN, TN. Over 5000 pieces of Blue Ridge and Cash Family pottery. CR vintage toy collection, 1930s 1960s-windups, Barbies, Madam Alexander. Thousands of pieces including Fenton, Carnival, Depression, Cranberry, Jadite, Cobalt, McCoy, Roseville, Weller, Hull, Shawnee, Watt, Fiesta, Jewel Tea, pattern and cut glass, American and European art glass; including Tiffany, Steuben, Mt. Wash., Wavecrest, & Loetz. Royal Doulton, Hummels, Flow Blue, R.S.Prussia, Majolic, Nippon, and multi colored transferware. This is only a brief listing. We also do vintage toys and quilts, steins, paper items, stoneware and salt glaze. No junk, just good quality antiques and collectibles. Open Tuesday-Saturday, 10am-5pm and Sunday afternoons 1:30-5pm Mondays by appointment Call 423-743-4136 or 423-220-7372 for Details In ERWIN, TN take I-26 to exit 37 right to light, then right on Main Street.

Look for Blue open flag. Come by and see us! 423-743-4136

Vacation Accommodations Goldendoodle 8 Weeks Old Current On Vaccines 1 litter F1 B. $900 Parti-Color 1 litter F1 $650 Located in Rogersville Tn Mcnallyeddie@aol.com 423-754-2863.

Moores Cabins NEW LOG CABINS! Gatlinburg, Pigeon Forge area. Jacuzzi-Hot tubs and stone fireplaces. Porch rockers with gas grill! Fully furnished. Cable TV. On trout stream. $85 Nightly and up. www.moorecabins.com 423-487-5615

Antique Buyer Asheville Estate Removals Buying Antiques! One item or entire estate. 40

years experience buying estates, antiques, attics, basements, barns, and garages. wilsonantiques@gmail.com 828-713-7598

Great pet for kids! Miniature donkeys.

Very lovable and sweet natured. Babies available now! Delivery service available!

828-400-1250

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Reach over 20 million homes nationwide with one easy buy! Only $1,795 per week for a 20 word classified! For more information go to www.naninetwork.com or contact Sophie staff 828-274-8888 Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019 | 41

PHOTO

FINISH

Ray Fawley Photographer: Ray Fawley Model: Birgeta Mannikan Dress and Hat Designer: Birgeta Mannikan 42 | Sophie JANUARY / FEBRUARY 2019

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