Sophie December 2014

December 2014 Priceless

smart • sophisticated • savvy

Feminine Fashion Cookies!

Obsession With Red A Pallet Project Featuring

Lynn G. Dressler, Dr. P.H. of Mission Health - Fullerton Genetics Center

2 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 3

smart • sophisticated • savvy

Publisher

Vincent Grassia 28 | Crafty Girl Make these cute snow-babies out of socks.

Feature 12 | Making Medicine Personal Lynn Dressler, Dr. P.H. has a passion for genetic medicine.

Creative Editor

40 | Sun and Soil Kristina Urquhart is learning how to heat with a 32-year-old woodstove.

Production Manager

Debi Manfre Lisa Gallagher Creative Services Specialist

Adalee Elkins Contributor

In Every Issue

Carrie Harder

24 | Color Obsession: Aurora Red Add a punch of color to your wardrobe and home decor.

10 | Quick Tips A variety of inspiration and information.

Karen Shepard

Healthy Living

14 | So-Social Favorite picks from social media expert, Kirsten Fuchs.

Beauty & Fashion

32 | Let’s Get Cooking!

Debi Manfre shares her favorite Christmas cookie recipes.

18 | Stylish & On Trend Unique fashions and accessories from Altar’d State.

34 | Tried and True Jackie Brown shows us how to make Santa’s Cookies In A Jar.

22 | A Sparkling Holiday Makeover Jacqui Perry gives Rose Ireland a new look.

38 | Nutritious & Delicious Medea Galligan gives us tips on staying healthy during the holidays.

44 | Meg’s Movie Review Meg gives us her thoughts about “This Is Where I Leave You”.

Home & Garden

45 | Betty’s Book Review Betty’s shares the story of “The Yonahlosse Riding Camp For Girls”.

28 | All About Paul Kline makes a snow family from a used pallet.

December 2014 Priceless

JeanAnn Taylor

36 | Chiming In Susan Reinhardt is ready for holiday retail.

41 | Garden Bloomers Betty Sharpless gets to work on tiding up her garden.

Table of Contents

Managing Editor

16 | Sophie Celebrates You! The accomplishments and achievements of our readers are highlighted.

30 | Real Men Read Sophie

Proofing Diva Director of Advertising

Patricia Martin Betts Advertising Consultants

Jody Gantt Meg Hale Brunton Rick Jenkins Maggie Leftwich Rose Lunsford LuAnne Sheffield Roberta Llyod Pamela Hart Distribution Manager

Mark Graham Sophie On-line Development

Dan Jaworsky

smart • sophisticated • savvy

Feminine Fashion Cookies!

Obsession With Red A Pallet Project Featuring

Lynn G. Dressler, Dr. P.H. of Mission Health - Fullerton Genetics Center

4 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

On the Cover: Lynn G. Dressler, Dr. P.H. of Mission Health Fullerton Genetics Center Cover Photo by Audrey Goforth, goforthphoto.com Hair by Erin Johnston and Makeup by Brittanny Craig of Carmen!

Carmen! Salon & Spa at Belk, Asheville Mall Clothing from Belk, Asheville Mall

Share your ideas and inspirations.

Email writer@sophiemagazine.com with recipes, books, article ideas and calendar listings. Follow Sophie on Facebook and Pinterest.

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SOPHIE MAGAZINE 22 Garfield Street, Suite 100 Asheville, NC 28803 828.210.0340 sophiemagazine.com 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.

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 5

Contributor’s Reflections

MEG HALE BRUNTON This will be my husband and my first Christmas in our new house! I aspire to be unpacked by the end of the year and maybe even throw a fabulous New Year’s/Housewarming party.

KRISTINA URQUHART My super-special plans this month are to slow down and do nothing - in other words, NO plans! As a society, I think we tend to put “busy” on a pedestal, so I want to release obligations, put away phones, and simply spend time with family.

AMY RENIGAR My wish is always for my family to be healthy and together on Christmas Eve, as has been tradition. This year, I am especially wishing that my dad and my father-in-law will both be well and home to celebrate with us.

KIRSTEN FUCHS

We are totally breaking away from tradition this year and have decided to take a family vacation to Yosemite National Park and Lake Tahoe. We are all about creating memories and skipping all the presents this year.

Who knows? This may become our new family tradition!

DEBI MANFRE

This Christmas I will be making up care packages filled with cookies to send to family. After all that baking I will relax and enjoy time with my husband, Gary and our dog, Jakester.

MEDEA GALLIGAN My goal for the rest of 2014 is to help as many people as possible live a better life through access to the best tasting locally-produced organic foods & cold-pressed juices available anywhere. When we eat better, we feel better - and when we are nourished everything in our lives improves!

6 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

JACQUI PERRY

Christmas is my favorite holiday!!! I turn into a kid again full of wonder and excitement. I always look forward to Christmas morning breakfast of eggs benedict and then dinner with my wonderful family keeping in mind the reason for the season, keep Christ in Christmas.

SUSAN REINEHARDT My wish is for my children and family, along with friends, to have a blessed season. I work retail and will miss out on so much. This will be my first Christmas of rushing and not getting all done. The guilt is crushing. But I must count my blessings to just have a job and insurance.

BETTY SHARPLESS My 2014 has been so wonderful, I’m just offering up thanks, not requests.

As per usual, Cocoa Bean and I will spend the end of the year camping at Hunting Island State Park to cap off the wonderful year.

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 7

From the Editor Every little wish and every little dream has a chance of coming true at Christmas.

Every little song sung throughout the year has a chance of being heard at Christmas.

T

his verse is from a song I sang with my children when they were young. Now that they are grown and live pretty far away, with their own lives to attend to, I’ve had to rethink what Christmas means to me. I’m not referring to this in a religious sense at all. I’m simply considering the logistics of the holiday season.

Are we going to travel? If so, should we drive or fly? Are the kids coming here? If so, where will everyone sleep? Are we buying gifts this year or can we skip that task since I really prefer to buy, or make, thoughtful gifts throughout the year rather than succumb to the stressful pressure shopping frenzy for one holiday. And even though I love to cook, do I really need to bake a turkey and make dressing and sweet potatoes and mashed potatoes, a green bean casserole, and a pecan pie since I only have one day off of work?

Do I really need to decorate every room since, again, I only have one day off of work? Do I sound like a Grinch?

Ah. The Holidays.

I think I’ve finally made peace with this season. It took a few years, but I’ve come to terms with the fact that Christmas with grown children, who I may or may not see, is not/can’t be the same holiday it was when they were young and I was a stay-athome Mom. And that’s okay. It’s just different. But there is still magic. I can enjoy the holiday music and bake a few special goodies for my husband and myself. We can decorate our home more simply and enjoy our time together. We can take walks downtown to enjoy the lights, festive decorations, and a cup of hot cocoa.

I actually love this time of the year. There is something in the air that breathes hope. There is the feeling that anything can happen and that wishes do have an enchanting possibility of coming true.

It’s the end of the year, so no matter what has happened, or what has not, a new beginning is just around the corner. And I think that is the real spirit of Christmas. Hopefulness.

Location: BB Barns

Photo by Kirsten Fuchs

One lovely way to embrace the Christmas Spirit is with flowers. A few stems of pretty blooms or a flowering plant can turn a dreary room into a cheerful place. I think the best way to avoid being a Grinch and assume more of a “Buddy” attitude from the movie Elf, is to do something for someone else.

I enjoy wrapping gifts for Care Partners Foundation during the holidays. Their gift-wrapping station is located in front of Sears at the Asheville Mall. I love the bewildered faces of men who are exhausted from shopping, finally found a gift, but now have no idea how to make it look attractive. Their grateful sigh of relief when I hand them a pretty package is precious. I like to imagine the smiles from those who get these sweet presents on Christmas morning.

As a dance instructor, I’m reminded of the wonderment of Christmas by the excitement and enthusiasm of my baby ballerinas as we sing and dance to Old Toy Trains, Here Comes Suzy Snowflake, and Rudolph the Red-Nosed Reindeer. I guess I’m not a Grinch after all, and I do hope your every little wish comes true.

JeanAnn Taylor editor@sophiemagazine.com

We’re confident, strong, and we like who we are. We’re smart and sophisticated. We’re savvy. We have panache. We’re not afraid to take risks.

We’re edgy and we’re real. We know what we want, and we’re willing to work to make our dreams come true.

8 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 9

Quick Tips

MAKE YOUR OWN WRAPPING PAPER Making your own wrapping paper for Christmas will not only save you money, but lend that added touch to make your gift more special. It is also a fun project to do with your kids!

You’ll need: • Stamp ink pad • Paper – You can use anything from regular construction paper, to old grocery bags, or a large roll of blank paper you can purchase at an art, craft, or office supply store.

• New pencil eraser • Assorted rubber stamps • Yarn The directions are so simple to make these one-of-a-kind wrapping papers. Just stamp away using rubber stamps that can be purchased from your local craft store. The polk-a-dots are made using a pencil eraser. Wrap it all up with yarn and homemade pom poms made from scrap yarn. Go to handimania.com for instructions on how to make these cute and easy pom poms.

A simple white or brown lunch bag decorated with marker can quickly became a holiday gift bag. The tag was made from scraps of paper, and tied on with a few inches of green yarn.

Poinsettia

FUN FLOWER FACTS No flower says Christmas like the beautiful poinsettia. Here are a few interesting facts about this traditional Christmas plant.

•

Dr. Joel Roberts Poinsett, an amateur botanist and first United States ambassador to Mexico, introduced the plant to this country.

•

The Paul Ecke Ranch in California grows over 70% of all poinsettias purchased in the United States and does about 50% of the world-wide sales of poinsettias.

•

To prolong the life of this Christmas plant, avoid hot or cold drafts, keep the soil moist not soggy, and place in a room with sufficient natural light and temperatures of around 60 to 70 degrees F. Water when the soil begins to dry. Once the leaves wilt too far, it’s too late.

•

Red is the most popular color, accounting for roughly threequarters of all sales nationwide, followed by white and pink.

DIY GIFT TAGS Don’t know what to do with all of your old cards.

Make them into gift tags!

You will need: • Old cards • Scissors • Hole puncher • Reinforced rings • Yarn or string

Pick an area of the card that you would like to make a tag out of.

You can pick a different area of the card to make more tags besides the one you’ve chosen!

Cut out your desired shape, punch a hole, and stick on some reinforced rings to strengthen the hole. A quick and easy activity!

10 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

P

UNC Asheville Athletics Presents

ink Game Women’s Expo & Fashion Show At UNC Asheville Kimmel Arena in the Wilma M. Sherrill Center

Saturday, February 12:00 - 5:00pm

7

th

Come to the women’s basketball game and enjoy exhibitors, wine & cheese social, and a Runway Fashion Show featuring UNC Asheville student-athletes.

Events of the Day 12:00 - Doors open! Come visit with local artists, designers, shops, and more.

Admission is $25 for all activities

2:00 - NCAA basketball game between UNC Asheville & Winthrop University

Includes basketball game ticket

4:00 - Wine & cheese social

Call 828-258-7900 or order online at uncabulldogs.com

4:30 - Runway Fashion Show, hosted by Sophie Editor, JeanAnn Taylor

Proceeds from event will go to local breast cancer charities and women’s student-athletic scholarships.

Presenting Sponsors:

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 11

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So-Social (Sophie Online) December Social Media Favorites From Sophie’s Social Empress: Kirsten Fuchs

FAVORITE PINTEREST FIND: Easy Mimosa

FAVORITE BLOG: The Voices of the South “Everyone has a story.What’s yours?”

Inspired by Humans of New York, I have created my own blog titled, The Voices of the South. Everyone has a story and I wanted to have a platform to share those I run across. If you have a story you want to share, please email it to me along with a photo of yourself. I would love to include it in my blog and on my Facebook page. facebook.com/thevoicesofthesouth TheVoicesoftheSouth.com

FAVORITE APP: Yard Sale Treasure Map

Quickly find the garage sales near you! Yard Sale Treasure Map is an app that lets you access Craigslist from your mobile device. Find the sales near you, and organize your adventure with: •Route planning •Keyword searching •Marker coloring •Google Street View •Turn by turn navigation I just downloaded this app and am excited to use it!

Cost: FREE

In looking for holiday recipes, I ran across this easy, yet different, recipe for Mimosas. Use orange sherbet instead of orange juice! This would also be good with sparkling juices. Be sure to follow our “Holiday” and “Recipe” Pinterest boards for great holiday ideas!

FAVORITE LOCAL RESTAURANT: The Cantina

My family probably eats at The Cantina 2-3 times a month. It is one of our favorite Mexican restaurants in Asheville. The food is always fresh, the service is great and the margaritas are especially yummy! Every time we start with a cup of the queso dip and the house made guacamole. My husband continues to get the Baja Fish Tacos and I enjoy the Mango Chicken Salad. Visit their full menu at cantinabiltmore.com.

The Cantina is located at 10 Biltmore Plaza in Asheville. They are open Monday - Thursday 11 a.m. - 9 p.m.; Friday & Saturday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m.; Sunday 11 a.m. - 10 p.m. (828) 505-7682

Follow Sophie & share your favorite blogs, apps & inspirations... sophiemagazine.com

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writer@SophieMagazine.com 14 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Sophie-Magazine

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 15

Sophie Celebrates You!

Send your accomplishments, achievements, recognitions, and business news to writer@sophiemagazine.com. Include your full color photograph, saved as high quality JPEG at 300 dpi. Please limit the number of words to 35.

Sophie reserves the right to edit content.

Heather Gibson joined the ID.ology team as an Interior Designer in September 2014.

She obtained her bachelor’s degree in interior design from Western Carolina University in May 2013. As a recent graduate, she offers knowledge on the latest design technology.

N i s h a E voy j o i n e d t h e ID.ology team as Furnishings Coordinator in October of 2014. Nisha attended Mars Hill University, where she studied business. With her creative energy, Nisha has a knack for color and attention to detail.

Michelle Darling, FNP-BC, has joined Pardee Family Medicine Associates, Etowah. Michelle received her bachelor’s in nursing, master’s in nursing and family nurse practitioner degrees from Vander bilt University.

Dr. Richard Jones, boardcertified orthopedic surgeon with Southeastern Spor ts Medicine , is plea sed to announce his membership with American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons.

Jennie Eblen, vice president of Eblen Short Stop Stores, Inc., has been elected to the statewide Board of Directors of the North Carolina Center for Nonprofits. She was also recently awarded Leadership Asheville’s 2014 Community Trustee Award.

Marie Reed, of Exit Realty Vistas is proud to be announced as the Top Lister, Top Seller and Top Producer for the month of October.

Dr. Jason Cook, joins The Family Health Centers. His special interes ts include pediatrics, sports medicine and dermatology.

Dr. Michael Lindow joins Mission Community Medicine Old Fort from The University of Washington Neighborhood Clinics in the Seat tle, Washington area, where he served as a clinical instructor.

16 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Kirsten Fuchs photography 828.216.9141 kirstenfuchs.com Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 17

Stylish & on trend

Altar’d State Vest $89.95 Umgee Dress $69.95 Grace and Lace Boot Socks $27.95 Altar’d State Riding Boot $89.95 Tassle Necklace $24.95 Turq Banded Bracelet $19.95 Beaded Bracelet $17.95

18 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Poof Sweater $49.95 Lace Layering Tank $29.95 Altar’d State Denim $69.95 Grace and Lace Boot Socks $34.95 Corral Boots $235 Jeweled Necklace $36 Lenny and Eva Leather Cuff $30 Lenny and Eva Large NC Sentiment $22

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Altar’d State Holiday Dress $99.95 Belt $40 Bamboo Booties $59.95 Headband $28.95 Gold Bangles $19.95 Cross Bracelet $20

20 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

PHOTOGRAPHER:

Duncan Chaboudy duncanchaboudy.com 828.275.4774 Photo Assistant: Craig Burgwardt CLOTHING & ACCESSORIES BY:

Biltmore Park 19 Town Square Blvd #100 Asheville, NC 28803 828.676.2888 altardstate.com HAIR STYLIST:

Zhenya Lazarchuk zhenya.lazarchuktikhonov@facebook.com

155 East Chestnut Street Asheville, NC 28801 828.713.6921 MAKEUP ARTIST:

Amanda Anderson

dollboxproductions.com 828.280.4824 MODEL:

Amber Hatley FASHION COORDINATOR:

Angela Ramsey

ASSISTANT FASHION STYLISTS:

BB Dakota Jacket $129.95 Crochet Headband $14.95 Black Shirt $29.95 Altar’d State Denim $69.95 Tom’s Desert Wedges $98 Tiered Necklace $34.95 Arrowhead Necklace $20

Amy Coffey & Brandon Decker LOCATION:

Biltmore Park Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 21

A Sparkling Holiday Makeover Written and Coordinated by Jacqui Perry | Photography by Kirsten Fuchs It’s December and everywhere you look you see the sparkle of holiday lights, the colors of red and green on almost everything and the hustle and bustle of shoppers finding that perfect gift.

It is such an exciting time of year. It is also the last makeover of the year. Meet Rose Ireland, our December makeover model. I love her name and she is as pretty as a rose and full of vibrant light.

Jacqui: This past year has had some difficult moments as you have been through four surgeries. Tell me about that.

Rose: Yes, over the past year and a half I have had four eye surgeries. I went for a routine check up and was immediately referred to a specialist as I had a hole in my retina. Not long after surgery a hole was found in the retina of my other eye.

This is highly unusual for someone my age. I was in disbelief but went through another surgery. This year has been pretty much surgeries and recovery for me.

My doctor is amazed that I have the vision that I have. I am thankful!

Before

Jacqui: Why a makeover?

Rose: What better time. I have new vision so why not a makeover to see me in a new way. It is so nice to be pampered and do something for myself that makes me feel good.

Jacqui: What do you look forward to?

Rose: Finding myself again. Going back to who I started out to be and who I am meant to be, only better!

Jacqui: What are you doing for the holidays?

Rose: I moved to Asheville in 2005 from Maine. My daughter, son-in-law and grandkids are in Maine so I will visit them for Christmas. (She says this with a huge smile on her face!) My family is the most important thing to me and they have been there for me during the tough times.

Jacqui: What are you doing for the holidays?

Rose: You have to be and stay positive. You have to change your thinking about the problem. You need to believe that you are worthy of healing. You have to know that you can go through emotions and fear and come out on the other side.

Rose has come out on the other side and now she looks and feels beautiful and is ready for the festivities of the holidays!

Clothes and accessories: Belk, Asheville Mall Salon Manager: Linda White for Carmen! Carmen! at Belk Hair: Amanda Harris for Carmen! Carmen! at Belk Makeup: Cecilia Cardenas for Laura Mercier at Belk Photographer: Kirsten Fuchs

Rose after 22 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Interested in a makeover? Send your photo and 75 words of why you need a makeover to info@luminousyouinc.com.

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 23

Color Obsession: Aurora Red

3.

Add a punch of color to your wardrobe and home decor with one of this season’s Pantone® Fashion Colors.

1. Red Flame Parsons Chair

2.

kirklands.com

2. Decorative Throw Pillows

1.

etsy.com

3. New Direction® Fringe Collar Belted Sweater belk.com

4. Martina Pointy Toe Pumps ninewest.com

5. Betsey Johnson Watch macys.com

4.

5.

6. Winter Plaid Scarf teenscraze.com

7. Big Apple Red OPI Nail Lacquer Carmen! Carmen! Salon & Spa

8. Rojo Red Tall Cabinet

crateandbarrel.com

24 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

7.

8.

This Holiday Season Like new looks for a fraction of the price.

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 25

learn. dream. live. run. western north carolina 26 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Register, Volunteer, and Learn More at gotrwnc.org or (828) 713-4290

Donate to GOTR of WNC If you would like to make a tax-deductible donation to Girls on the Run of WNC, checks can be mailed to 50 S. French Broad Ave, Suite 249, Asheville, NC 28801, or you can visit their website: gotrwnc.org/donate.

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 27

Crafty Girl Baby, It’s Cold Outside so here are a couple of easy crafts to make you smile and warm your heart.

Snow-Baby Socks Created by JeanAnn Taylor

Materials: • White socks (with or without ruffle) • Ribbon • Batting • Needle and Embroidery Floss Directions: • Softly stuff the sock with batting • Tie Ribbon around sock to create neck • Fold down top of sock to form hat • Using needle and embroidery floss, stitch eyes and mouth • “Dress” Snow Babies as desired using ribbons, bows, beads, buttons • For a No-sew option, glue features onto sock

All About Sophie Snow People Created By Paul Kline Materials: • Pallet • Paint • Felt scraps • Accessories Directions: • Cut out every other slat the same height to create a fence line.

• To make the tree, cut slats on both sides of “trunk” in shape of branches.

• Paint fence in Sophie colors (pink and black). Paint the snow people white, and paint the tree green and brown.

• Cut out eyes and carrot nose from felt scraps then hot glue them onto slat.

• Give your Snow People a toboggan to keep them warm!

Paul Kline is the owner of North Star Construction. Visit nscbuilds.com.

28 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

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REAL MEN READ SOPHIE We know that men read Sophie, so send a photo of your man reading Sophie to writer@sophiemagazine.com, and you may see your photo published in the magazine!

Shawn Wolff, Will Booker, Peter Baumgarten, Rick Fornoff, Seay Stephens, Phil Bisesi ASHEVILLE BLUE RIDGE TOASTMASTERS CLUB

30 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

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Let’s Get Cooking

C H R I S TM A S

Written by Debi Manfre

Christmas cookies, as we know them today, trace their roots to Medieval European recipes.

Neolithic farmers would bake confections comprised of grain and water paste on hot stones.

It is believed that the modern day cookie derives from this creation. Dutch and German settlers introduced cookie cutters, decorative molds, and festive holiday decorations to America. Dutch New Year’s cookies were also sometimes molded into fancy shapes.

German lebkuchen (gingerbread) was probably the first cake/cookie traditionally associated with Christmas. Sugar cookie type recipes descended from English traditions.

Whatever the history is behind the delicious Christmas cookie, it is a treat we all look forward to every holiday season.

Basic Cookie Dough

I love this recipe because you can use it as a base to make up to eight different cookies. I am including two of my favorites.

Ingredients: • 1/2 cup vegetable shortening • 1/2 cup softened butter • 1 cup sugar • 2 eggs • 1 tspn. vanilla extract • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour • 2 tspns. baking powder • 1 tspn. salt Directions: • In a large bowl with mixer at medium speed, cream shortening. butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

• Beat in eggs and vanilla extract until well mixed.

• Add flour, baking powder and salt and continue beating at low speed until well mixed, scraping bowl occasionally.

• Wrap and refrigerate dough until well chilled, about 3 hours or overnight.

32 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Viennese Batons

Makes about 6 dozen cookies

Ingredients: • 1 recipe of the Basic Cookie Dough • 4 squares (4 oz.) semisweet chocolate • 3/4 cup chopped nuts of your choice

Pinwheel Cookies

Makes about 5 dozen cookies

Ingredients: • 1 recipe of the Basic Cookie Dough • 1 tspn. grated orange peel • 2 squares (1 oz. each) semisweet chocolate, melted and cooled Directions: • Prepare Basic Cookie Dough as directed but stir in orange peel with vanilla.

• Do not refrigerate.

• Cut dough in half. Stir cooled, melted chocolate into one half of the dough until well blended.

• Wrap and chill both doughs about 2 hours.

• On sheets of wax paper, roll out vanilla dough into a 14x6-inch rectangle; set aside.

• On another sheet of wax paper, roll out the chocolate dough into the same size rectangle.

• Invert chocolate dough onto vanilla dough and peel off top wax paper.

Lightly press doughs together.

• Roll jelly-roll fashion from the 14-inch, peeling off wax paper as you roll.

Wrap up in the roll in plastic wrap and chill until firm, about 2 hours.

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 2 large cookie sheets.

• Remove chilled cookie dough roll from refrigerator. Cut dough into 1/4 inch slices.

• Bake 8 to 10 minutes until lightly browned. Cool on wire racks.

Directions: • Prepare Basic Cookie Dough as directed. Refrigerate.

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease 2 large cookie sheets.

• Divide refrigerated dough into 8 pieces. Roll each piece (Keep remaining dough refrigerated.) on lightly floured surface into a rope 1/2 inch wide.

• Cut into 2 inch pieces. Place on cookie sheet 1 inch apart.

• Bake 12 to 15 minutes until lightly browned. Cool on wire rack. Repeat with remaining dough.

• Melt chocolate in microwave on low. Stir until smooth.

• Dip one end of cookie into chocolate, then into nuts.

• Place on wax paper to harden.

Grandma Ruth’s Thumb Print Cookies

I remember making these with my grandma when I was a little girl. They are a traditional, family favorite at Christmas time.

Ingredients: • 1 stick softened margarine • 1 stick softened butter • 1/2 cup sugar • 2 egg yolks • 1 tspn. sugar • 2 1/2 cups flour • Strawberry, apricot and raspberry jam Directions: • In a large bowl, cream margarine, butter and sugar until light and fluffy.

• Add vanilla and egg yolks. Mix until well blended.

• Mix in flour. Chill dough in refrigerator for about 2 hours.

• Preheat oven to 350 degrees.

• Roll dough into 1 inch balls. Place on greased cookie sheets.

• Indent with thumb. Fill indent with jam.

• Bake for 15 minutes until lightly browned. Cool on wire rack.

Brrr it’s cold outside. There is nothing that takes the chill off better than a bowl of hot, delicious soup.

Soup brings us the sense of comfort. When you have a cold, what is the one soup everyone recommends?

If you guessed chicken soup, you are right. Share your favorite soup recipe with me and our Sophie readers. One recipe submission will be chosen to receive

an apron handmade by JeanAnn Taylor, our Sophie editor. Go to sophiemagazine.com and fill out the recipe form or you can email your recipe to me at writer@sophiemagazine.com. Please include a detailed list of ingredients and instructions plus your full name, address and phone number.

Debi Manfre

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 33

Tried And True

Santa’s Cookies In A Jar Written by Jackie Brown

W

e all have friends, teachers, neighbors, colleagues and bosses to gift around the holidays. Cookies in a jar are the perfect way to give a treat without breaking the bank. Here are my tips for making this process smooth and easy.

• Buy ingredients and supplies in bulk {Thrift stores are great places to purchase mason jars.} • Print baking labels on office supply tags or card stock and attach with Christmas ribbon.

• Enlist helpers {Make it a family event with an assembly line.} • Don’t put it off at the last minute; give yourself plenty of time to assemble, enjoy and make extras for the unexpected guests.

Share a Merry Christmas gift to all you know!

For Santa’s Cookies In A Jar recipe and printable labels, go to sophiemagazine.com.

Congratulations!

Jamie Vaughan was our recipe winner in November.

Jamie received an apron handmade by JeanAnn Taylor for her Carmelized Onion, Bacon, Apple Stuffing recipe.

Go to Let’s Get Cooking on page 33 to see details on how you can win a handmade apron.

Go to sophiemagazine.com to download Jamie’s winning recipe.

34 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Sophie DECEMBER 2014 | 35

Chiming In

Retail Madness Written by Susan Reinhardt

O

ne of my co-workers begged me to write about the lives of retail and other service-industry workers and what we face during the holidays. Don’t get me wrong. I love my job in cosmetics and retail, but it’s not easy. It’s the most challenging work I’ve ever done.

I missed a huge family post-Thanksgiving gathering in Greensboro, because that weekend in late November is crazy-busy at the store. I also missed many of my daughter’s tennis matches, and had to zoom out early just to attend her holiday chorus concert.

hind a register or counter, doing her best to give excellent customer service. Leslie said she takes pride in her job every single day.

What most don’t know, is that behind every face at a cash register, this person serving you has a real life. We have families, hobbies, and even second jobs. Some of us are artists, musicians, former school teachers, and are doing this work for the insurance and paychecks.

“Twenty years later, I’m glad to have this job,” she said. “I would have never thought I would have kept the same job for 20 years.

She said she can’t count the times she’s been Leslie Harris cussed at, even had stuff thrown at her. But instead of being bitter, she recalls the great times at work, the bonds with certain loyal customers and the life-long friends she’s made with co-workers.

Then again, there are some retail workers like my friend Leslie Harris of Swannanoa, who love the pace, no matter how frenetic. She works as a cashier at Walmart Supercenter on Bleachery Blvd.

“At the end of each of my days at Walmart, I’m thankful for this job. I’m thankful that I even have regular customers who look for me, who come to my line. That tells me I made a small impact on their lives.”

Leslie is the woman I look up to when I don’t think I can make it through another shift. Recently, she posted a diary-like entry celebrating her 20th year with Walmart. We all have heard of the wacky commotions – even shootings and stampeding – concerning Walmart shoppers during the holidays. But Leslie weathers it with class and a smile.

So as I miss special occasions this season with family and friends, knowing I have to work while others are celebrating and merry-making, I focus on Leslie and her positive attitude.

Retail workers are, for the most part, the hardiest souls I know. They juggle erratic hours and schedules. For as many wonderful customers they encounter, comes an entire load of grumps and Grinches in huge hurries to shop for gifts and bargains.

“I love the holiday madness!” she expressed with pure joy. “I love seeing what the kids are getting for Christmas. I love just the spirit of giving it brings.”

Please remember to be kind to the person ringing up your purchases, serving you delicious foods in restaurants, and others who are waiting on you with a smile. And may you all have a wonderful Christmas or “Happy Holiday,” as some prefer to call this most celebrated time of year.

Sure, she gets rude customers, but unlike me, whereas I shake my head, she just shakes it off.

“The mean ones? I have to blow off steam, usually on Facebook, but tell myself they were mad when they walked in the door and are taking it out on me,” Leslie said. “And then I’m just glad I don’t live with them.”

Retail is in Leslie’s blood. A mother of three, she got her first job during Kmart’s grand opening in Hendersonville back in 1983. She tried sewing, fast food work and other jobs, but decided her career was be36 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

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.” susanreinhardt.com

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Nutritious & Delicious

Stay Healthy This Holiday Season Written by Medea Galligan, MS Nutrition, CHHC, AADP

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lthough many of us find it challenging to stay healthy during the year, the Holiday season brings with it its own set of special circumstances. Holiday parties, baking traditional Christmas goodies, traveling to see friends and family, and hosting guests in our homes all result in a higher consumption of sugary and high fat treats, and much less time to exercise. Besides consuming too much of the wrong kinds of food and drink, colder weather and more time indoors combine to create what is known as the “cold and flu season”, making life miserable for the afflicted. So what can you do to survive the Holidays without gaining 20 pounds, or catching a cold every time a co-worker or family member coughs or sneezes?

Stay Hydrated. While eggnog, soda, cider, juice, and alcoholic drinks have a well-entrenched past in traditional merry-making, and they may contain water, they actually dehydrate your body. Chronic dehydration is often the cause of headaches, joint pain, mood swings, and dry skin, so be sure to drink plenty of water. By starting your day off with a large glass of water, you rehydrate your body and literally “start your engine”.

Drinking water throughout the day helps your body flush out toxins, thereby boosting your immune system. Due to chronic dehydration, we often mistake hunger for thirst, so making a habit of drinking a large glass of water before reaching for food is a basic tenet of getting to and maintaining a healthy weight.

Eat More Fresh Greens. Find creative ways to get more green vegetables and fresh herbs into your meals and Holiday recipes, like adding fresh cilantro to a bean burrito, or adding collards, mustard greens, or kale to your favorite soup recipe. Greens are loaded with chlorophyll, enzymes, vitamins, minerals, and fiber, which together nourish and detoxify your body.

Fresh greens add refreshing color and texture to heavy winter meals.

Stay Active. If you already have an exercise program, and Holiday plans have made it impossible to get to the gym, you can still find ways keep your metabolism functioning in high gear. Get out and take a brisk walk for at least 30 minutes. A fun game of football or basketball is a great way to reconnect with friends and family, all while getting your blood pumping and fresh oxygen in your lungs. Aside from burning calories, numerous studies have shown that exercise stimulates the immune system by increasing the circulation of white blood cells. If you are exercising regularly, the likelihood of your acquiring the flu or other viral illness decreases quite dramatically. One study shows that staying active cut the risk of having a cold by 50 percent, and the severity of symptoms by 31 percent among those who did catch a cold. * 38 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Slow Down and Enjoy The Season. Whether you are at a Holiday party or sitting down to Christmas dinner, take time to appreciate your family and friends, the décor, and the special foods that are prepared this time of year. Take time to really taste each bite. Slowing down allows us to get more pleasure from smaller portions, and allows us to enjoy a greater variety of Holiday goodies without gaining weight.

By adopting these simple practices, you are likely to not only enjoy a healthier Holiday season, but a healthier life. * Br J Sports Med. 2011 Sep;45(12):987-92. Epub 2010 Nov 1. Upper respiratory tract infection is reduced in physically fit and active adults.

Medea Galligan, MS Nutrition, CHHC, AADP, has been practicing as a Holistic Health Coach since 1998. You can reach her at HealthyCookingConcepts.com. She and her husband recently opened Medea’s Espresso & Juice Bar. Visit EspressoAndJuiceBar.com.

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Sun & Soil

Warm Wishes Written by Kristina Urquhart

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aby, it’s cold outside. And even after thirteen “real” winters, this Floridian is still not used to winter. I shut down, freeze up (no pun intended) and the wind is generally taken out of my sails. But this year, we moved to a new house and are further “off the grid” than we’ve ever been. Without a heat pump or any other form of switch-it-on-andforget-about-it kind of heating apparatus, we’ve had to quickly learn the ins and outs of heating our home with wood.

The 32-year-old woodstove in our home is probably not terribly efficient – at least compared to the newer models available today. But it stands tall and sturdy in the center of our New England Saltbox style home, and, when lit, warms every inch of the structure to the very corners. It gets so hot, in fact, we often have to crack a window. Since this is my first winter without electric heat (or a super to turn to when the ancient radiator heat fails, as in all of my New York City apartments), I’ve had to learn how to heat with wood on the fly. If you find yourself heating with wood (or the desire to), there are a few things to keep in mind: Wood heat is not the most environmentally friendly. Shocking right?

In addition to some adverse health effects (think respiratory issues, such as the exacerbation of asthma), wood stove emissions contribute to outdoor air pollution during the winter in residential areas. To keep both indoor and outdoor air pollution to a minimum, take care with what you burn. Never put plastic, glossy magazines, treated wood, household garbage, foil, particleboard or plywood in your wood stove.

Wood heat is dry. Like, really dry. It helps to put a pot of water on the woodstove when it’s in use, or, purchase a steamer made for the job. If you have electricity, you can also opt to run a small humidifier in various rooms throughout the house. That’s what we do in our bedroom at night and my houseplants appreciate it very much!

Burn only seasoned firewood. What is seasoned wood? Seasoned wood is firewood that has had time – at least a year, or so – to cure and dry. Of course, this varies depending on the type of wood you’re using and the conditions present where it is stored. The best way to determine if firewood is seasoned is to use a moisture meter – anything that reads below 20% moisture is good to burn. If you don’t have a moisture meter, you can look for some telltale signs of seasoned firewood: visible cracks on the edges of split wood; a grey color; bark peeling away from the wood and a “crack” sound (as opposed to a dull thud when you smack two pieces of wood together). Seasoned firewood burns more efficiently and reduces creosote build-up in your stove.

40 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Split your firewood. Wood cures and dries faster when it’s split. If you do this job earlier in the season, you’ll spare yourself the hassle of needing to split it in the winter, too.

Source your firewood the year before you need it. In our culture of procrastination, this one seems nearly impossible, doesn’t it? But the fact of the matter is that firewood, seasoned and even split, is hard to find in the fall and winter. Save yourself the headache by purchasing wood a year in advance and storing in a dry location, such as a shed. The good news?

Not only are you planning in advance and can rest easy, but you have the luxury of buying “green” wood (that is, unseasoned), for less money and allowing it to season for the year before you need it.

Follow Kristina Mercedes Urquhart’s homesteading exploits on her blog, kristinamercedes.tumblr.com.

Garden Bloomers

Snowshoes In The Garden?

Written By Betty Sharpless

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s many of you know, winter is when I get to work in my own garden. From March to November, my garden has to skimp along while I keep other people’s gardens tidy and bright. From November to March I get to spend time fighting back the jungle that has overcome my veggie and flower beds when I was not looking!

Working in the garden in the winter sure has a lot of benefits though: no sweating or sunburn, no mosquitoes, long pants protect legs from briars and poison ivy. By the time the darker days of winter come along, I definitely need to get some sun and exercise to keep me sane. Of course it is also fun to see brightly colored hens trying to get to worms through the snow. They will all get under foot when I set a shovel in to try to be the first hen to gobble the sleepy worms.

Now is a great time to give the garden the spa treatment. Once the beds are cleaned of last year’s debris, I empty out the compost bins and give them all a layer of black gold to revitalize the soil for next season.

That done, I layer on as many shredded leaves as I can and let the worms get to work on adding organic matter (or as my young neighbors say: WORM POOP!) to the beds. Last year I added a top layer of straw over the leaves and then left it there as mulch when I set out my tomatoes and peppers with great success.

Since I use raised wooden beds, I also take this time repair loose corners and to refigure any trellis systems that collapsed during the tomato vs. morning glory wrestling season of late fall. As I get older, my raised beds are getting taller, making them much easier to work in and reach into.

Winter is a good time to cut any dead out of your roses, fruit trees and flowering shrubs. The excessive clothing worn to keep warm protects me from even the worst thorns of my “Sleeping Beauty” rose that would shred me to pieces otherwise. Since the leaves have fallen, it is much easier to see problem branching and over-crowding. Bare branches are also easier to drag to the curb.

This winter I am also reaping the benefits of my new super-dooper chicken-foiling low-tech garden bed protector system. As much as I love my hens, they can destroy a greens bed in five minutes flat. Finally I have come up with a plan that lets me into the beds easily and keeps those shifty bird brains out. Last year’s plan kept them out all right, but it was so difficult for me to get in to harvest that a lot of greens went to waste. So far, so good. If the snow gets too deep, their little snowshoe chicken feet may allow them to walk right over the barricades though!

Betty Sharpless is a free-lance gardener with a quilt frame for bad weather and a horribly overgrown garden for sunny days.

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2014

The highly anticipated March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction and Gala was held Friday, November 7th at Biltmore Estate - Lioncrest and featured the area’s most exquisite chefs and tempting auction packages. More than $100,000 was raised to forward efforts that prevent premature birth and birth defects so that one day every Western North Carolina baby will reach his or her first birthday.

Congratulations to Signature Chef Chris Aquilino of Mission Catering for capturing the coveted March of Dimes People’s Choice Award!

Photographs by Donald Latham Photography

March Of Dimes Director, Michaela Lowe and her husband, Nathan

Dr. Jana Watts, March For Babies Ambassador Gabriela Greene and her father, Terrence Greene

Neonatal Intensive Care Nurses, Linda Smith, Marcie Erskine, Athena Carver, and Dana Ross 42 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Tony and Melanie Allen

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Meg’s Movie Review

“This is Where I Leave You” Written by Meg Hale Brunton “This is Where I Leave You” looked like an offbeat dark comedy about death, family, and revisiting your hometown as an adult. The plot centers around the Altman family, who don’t exactly get along. They are forced to deal with each other when the family patriarch dies and, with his dying wishes, asks them all to sit shiva together for seven days. And with a cast like Jason Bateman (“Juno”), Tina Fey (“Baby Mama”), and Jane Fonda (“9 to 5”), they’ve got all the ingredients for comic gold. So, what went wrong?

I don’t want to mislead you, “This is Where I Leave You” isn’t that bad of a movie. I got some good laughs out of it (most of which were shown in the trailer), and parts of the acting were pretty good. For the most part, however, the film was contrived, forced, and leaves the audience cold.

Maybe I wouldn’t have been expected more, except that I’ve seen such fantastic work from most of these actors in the past. Tina Fey’s comic timing is unparalleled, but in this movie she has to have quite a few emotional breakdowns and doesn’t quite pull it off. What’s more, they have an acting legend like two-time Academy Award winner Jane Fonda to work with, and her only use in the film is a sight-gag. Fonda’s character has just had a breast enlargement, and every scene she does in the movie has her with cleavage cinched up to her nose, or bending over in a loosely-tied robe.

Okay, I laughed a couple of times, but we really can’t think of any other purpose for Jane Fonda?

Easily the best performance in the film is given by Bateman, who plays Judd, the middle son. With a recently-lost job and a faulty marriage, he returns home for his father’s funeral in a pretty tragic state, and his siblings are like jackals after his secrets. Bateman’s performance is funny, sad, and honest. Honestly, he is onscreen with a bunch of highly-accomplished actors and pretty much acts circles around them. If anything saves “This is Where I Leave you,” it is him.

Adam Driver from the HBO series “Girls” also does a decent job as the family’s screw-up little brother Phillip. While most of his performance is over-clouded by the outlandish things he says, does, and the trouble he stirs up, he still manages to come off as endearing. Other primetime television actors show up on the big screen for this movie like Connie Britton, (“American Horror Story”) who plays Phillip’s former therapist and current lover, Corey Stoll “(House of Cards”) who plays Judd and Phillip’s older brother Paul, and Timothy Olyphant (“Justified”) who plays Tina Fey’s character’s former flame. I was fine with their performances as well, despite the relatively small size of their roles.

Rounding out the cast is Rose Byrne (“Bridesmaids), whom I normally like, who plays Judd’s love interest Penny. Her performance frustrated me the most of any. She tries so palpably to come off as cute, sweet and 44 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

quirky that they should have just had her wear a mask of Natalie Portman’s character in “Garden State.” The filmmakers were trying to make a movie about loss and grieving and, even though they were trying to show it in a funny way, Byrne’s performance looks like a tap-dancer at a cocktail party.

“This is Where I Leave You” fails especially because I didn’t really like any of the characters, with the exception of Judd. They are all deplorable people, who have a few shining moments, but for the most part just hurt each other for an hour and 45 minutes. A few issues are worked out by the end of the movie, but that does force the audience to notice the conflicts that aren’t worked out. Basically, “This is Where I Leave You” felt like getting to the World Series, then knocking yourself out with your own bat. I give this movie 4 out of 10 stars.

Betty’s Book Review

The Yonahlosse Riding Camp for Girls Review by Betty Sharpless

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et’s face it; wintertime is a great time to curl up by the fire in your favorite chair and fall into a book that takes you worlds and times away. The Yonahlosse Riding Camp for Girls is set in the mountains of Western North Carolina at the beginning of the financial crash of the 1930s. Reading this book opened a world of women I knew nothing about. Long before the feminist movement in my youth, young women from wealthy families were trying to find a way to survive the iron bands of polite society and being chastised for their efforts.

One of these women’s stories is the core of this beautifully written first novel from Anton Disclafani.

Ms. Disclafani paints this story with vibrant colors and emotions. I love a book that forces me to drop everything and turn the next page, and I warn you this is one book you will not be able to put down.

The Yonahlosse Riding Camp for Girls Her depiction of the ways young

By Anton Disclafani women interact and stratify when in a large group is spot on and heartfelt. Seen through the eyes of a teenage girl named Thea, sent to a horse riding camp for wealthy girls whose families want to hide them from society, each girl has an intriguing story.

Thea’s adventures and misadventures during her stay make for a mesmerizing read. I would have liked the ending to be a little more positive, but it was true to the times.

In the dead of winter weather, this book will transport you to youth, angst, beauty and romance. Just be sure your to-do list is caught up before you pick it up!

Betty Sharpless is a professional gardener and writer in Asheville, North Carolina.

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Concerning Our Community Holiday Sale at Bullington Gardens

Sponsor A Child For Christmas

The Monte Vista Hotel Presents ‘Deck the Trees’

2014 Cookie Party

Celebrate the holiday season by visiting the Bullington Gardens’ 10th Annual Open House and Holiday Sale and Christmas Mart. The sale will be held from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday, December 5 and Saturday, December 6. The open house will be held during the sale on Friday.

The sale will feature premium, native freshly-cut Fraser fir trees, from the Western North Carolina mountains. Trees should be pre-ordered by Monday, December 1 as a limited number will be available at the sale. Also available will be decorated wreaths and swags as well as handmade holiday craft items, including log trees, napkins and table runners, and candy Santa sleighs.

The annual event will include the sale of premium amaryllis, poinsettias, and cyclamen. Following the sale, these items along with swags and wreaths will be available for sale at Bullington until December 19 or as supplies last.

Bullington Gardens, a Horticultural Education Center, is located at 95 Upper Red Oak Trail in Hendersonville. From Highway 64, turn north onto Howard Gap Road. Proceed one mile, and turn right on Zeb Corn Road.

Go 2/3 of a mile and turn right on Upper Red Oak Trail.

For more information, call Bullington Gardens at (828) 698-6104 or visit the website at bullingtongardens.org.

The public is invited to the Historic Monte Vista Hotel on December 4, 6 - 8 p.m., for the first viewing party of its annual ‘Deck the Trees’ Christmas Celebration. Beautiful and unique hand-decorated Christmas trees in the theme of “Christmas Imagined” will be on display from December 4 - 31.

This event benefits the Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministries.Your vote by cash or by check for your favorite tree helps to raise funds for those in need within our community. SVCM receives all funds raised through this annual celebration of the Christmas Season.

Calendar of Events: December 4 – Open House at the Monte Vista Hotel 6 p.m. - 8 p.m.

December 19 – Awarding of Prizes for Trees 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.

Trees on Display December 4 - 31 For more information, contact: Libba Fairleigh at libbafairleigh@gmail.com or Sue Conlon at themontevista@aol.com

Benefit Concert for Homeward Bound

Pan Harmonia presents “A Chamber Music Messiah,” on Sunday, December 7 at 3 p.m. in the newly restored sanctuary of First Presbyterian Church on 40 Church Street in Downtown Asheville. Organist Eric Wall leads a merry band of musicians in a rousing instrumental version of Georg F. Handel’s favorite Christmas tradition. All proceeds to benefit Homeward Bound, which ends homelessness in Western North Carolina by moving people into housing of their own and providing the support they need to stay housed for good.

Suggested donation of $25/person, $30/family appreciated, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds.

To learn more, visit pan-harmonia.org or homewardboundwnc.org.

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The holiday season is fast approaching, and Eliada is already hard at work to make this a special and memorable Christmas for the children in our care.

Right now we are seeking families, businesses, churches, and other groups who are interested in sponsoring needy children and adolescents for the Christmas holidays.

Sponsors can elect to shop from “wish lists” that the children create, or give a cash donation that the staff at Eliada will use to purchase gifts for individual students. Wish lists contain information like the child’s favorite color, clothing sizes, hobbies, and most needed/wanted items. Each sponsor is asked not to spend more than $150 per child to ensure that gifts are equitable amongst the children.You can sponsor 1 or as many children as you are able.

Children who receive gifts are needy youth from Eliada’s treatment and education programs. For most of these young people, the gifts they receive from sponsors are the only gifts they will get for Christmas. Many of the children spend the holiday season here on Eliada’s campus, and the gifts remind them that there is a community of people who care about them and are actively thinking of them. This feeling is just as important to them as the gifts themselves.

Please join Eliada in bringing joy to children in our community. Anyone interested in sponsoring a child should contact Jewel Tavener by emailing jtavener@eliada.org or calling (828) 254.5356 ext. 300.

Loving Food Resources hosts its annual Holiday Cookie Party on Friday, December 19th, at Kenilworth Presbyterian Church Fellowship Hall on Chiles Avenue from 6 to 8 p.m. Bring 4 dozen or more homemade cookies to help fill 200 cake boxes with cookies for the clients of Loving Food Resources and some to share. Coffee and milk will be provided. Cookies may also be dropped off at Ace Hardware North on December 19th for delivery to the church (before 4 p.m.).

This is a great event for families and small children to get everyone in the spirit of the holidays and an easy way to teach kids that volunteering is fun. For more information, contact Betty Sharpless at (828) 273-2531 or bsharpl614@aol.com.

Loving Food Resources is an all volunteer, non-profit, food pantry providing food and personal care items to over 200 people living with HIV/AIDS or in Home Hospice regardless of diagnosis.

Project Linus Needs Blankets

The local chapter of Project Linus, a national non-profit organization which donates handmade blankets to children in crisis, is seeking volunteers to create blankets. The new “blanketeers” can contribute knitted, crocheted, quilted, no-sew fleece or flannel blankets.

Our chapter has distributed 50.000 blankets during the past 14 years and there is still a need for additional blankets.

If interested, please contact, Ellen Knoefel, chapter coordinator, at (828) 645-8800.

The Pink Pages

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over the course of the two sales, with a different group of artists each weekend - so plan on coming to both for best selection! Sale will be held at the Folk Art Center located at Milepost 382 on the Blue Ridge Parkway. Visit southernhighlandguild.org for info.

Santa On The Chimney

December

“It’s A Wonderful Life”

December 1, 8pm Immediate Theatre Project’s annual production of “Live From WVL Radio: It’s A Wonderful Life” is back for one night only at the Isis Restaurant and Music Hall in West Asheville. Reservations can be made by calling (828) 575-2737.

Winter Lights At The North Carolina Arboretum December 1 - January 4, 6 - 10pm Asheville’s Newest Tradition! Walk through a winter wonderland and experience the gardens in a whole new way! Admission: $18 Adults, $16 Children, Free for Children ages 4 and under. 100 Frederick Law Olmsted Way in Asheville. Visit ncwinterlights.com for more details.

2014 National Gingerbread House Competition & Display December 1 - January 1, Sundays - Thursdays, 9am - 9pm The Omni Grove Park Inn will open its doors to the public to view the Gingerbread display and holiday splendor.

290 Macon Avenue in Asheville. $10 parking fee. For more information, go to groveparkinn.com.

Us TOO of WNC December 2, 7pm A prostate cancer support forum for men, caregivers and family members will meet at First Baptist Church of Asheville on 5 Oak Street. No fee to attend. For information call (828) 273-7698.

Fourth Annual ‘Deck the Trees,’ Christmas Holiday Celebration December 4, 6pm The public is invited to the Historic Monte Vista Hotel for the inaugural party and first viewing of the Christmas Trees created around the theme of Christmas Imagined.

‘Deck The Trees’ celebrates the Christmas 50 | Sophie DECEMBER 2014

Season by raising funds for the Heating Fuel Fund of Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministries. For more information, call (828) 669-8870.

Olde Fashioned Hendersonville Christmas December 5, 5 - 8pm Historic Downtown Hendersonville merchants will be hosting an open house with refreshments, entertainment and late night shopping. (828) 233-3216 downtownhendersonville.org

Dillsboro Festival of Lights & Luminaries December 5, 6, 12, 13; Dusk - 9pm Experience the magic as the entire town of Dillsboro is transformed into a winter wonderland of lights, candles, laughter and song! Shopkeepers provide live music and serve holiday treats with hot cider and cocoa. Visit visitdillsboro.org for more info.

Lake Julian Festival Of Lights December 5 - 23, 6 - 9pm The park will be brightly lit with thousands of colored lights and over 50 animated and stationary light displays. The road circling the park becomes a magical journey through tunnels of dazzling lights. Admission: $5 for a car; $10 for a van; $25 for a motor coach. 406 Overlook Rd. in Arden. For more info., (828) 684-0376.

Asheville American Sewing Guild Meeting December 6, 10am - 12:30pm Annual Potluck Christmas Party. Bring a covered dish. Meeting will be held at House Of Fabrics on Merrimon Ave. in Asheville.

Program:25 Most Important Notions To Own. Display & Discussion. Contact Loretta Phipps at asgwnc@gmail.com.

Guild Artists’ Holiday Sale December 6 - 13, 10am - 4pm Over 50 artists will be participating

December 6 & 13, 11am - 2pm Santa practices on one of the world’s largest chimneys at 315 feet tall! Meet Santa and Mrs. Claus. Refreshments included with paid Park admission at Chimney Rock. (828) 625-9611 or (800) 277-9611 chimneyrockpark.com

United States Dog Agility Association Dog Agility Trial December 11 - 14, 8am - 2pm At the WNC Ag Center McGough Arena dogs jump hurdles, race through tunnels and climb over A-frames at high speed. Free admission and spectators are welcome.

(828) 243-3821 blueridgeagility.com

American Business Women’s Association Meeting December 11, 5:30 - 7:30pm We will be having our annual Holiday Gift Exchange! Bring a gift of $25 in value and we all pick numbers and open one at a time. Great way to celebrate the season. The meeting will be held at the Crowne Plaza Resort in Asheville. RSVP at abwaskyhychapter@gmail.com.

Weaverville Candlelight Christmas Stroll December 12, 6 - 8pm Luminaries will line the street, local choirs and bands will provide music, and horse and buggy rides will be available through town. Local businesses will be open late Enjoy watching the offical tree lighting. For more information, call (828) 645-7116.

Holiday Cookie And Book Sale December 13, 10am - 2pm 4th Annual Home-Made Holiday Cookie And Book Sale at First Congregational Church in Hendersonville, partially benefiting Mainstay’s Dandelion Cafe.

Also gift baskets, free-trade coffee, tea, & cocoa for sale. Browse and sip complimentary beverages in Holiday Cafe.

See fcchendersonville.org or call (828) 692-8630 for more information.

"Emily Dickinson Unplugged’’ December 14, 3pm Actress Carol Kessler presents her riveting Chautauqua performance, "Emily Dickinson Unplugged’’ at Cathedral of All Souls in Biltmore Village. This performance

is a benefit for Pan Harmonia. Suggested donation is $20. Wine reception to follow in the Owen Library. Please reserve for the wine reception at carol@pan-harmonia.org.

Chanukah Live!

December 16, 4:30 - 7:30pm Chabad House will host WNC’s largest Chanukah party; a community wide holiday celebration at the Crowne Plaza Expo Center Asheville, NC. This event is open to the public, please come join us! Call (828) 505-0746 for more information.

ON GOING Diabetes Support Group 3rd Wednesday of the month, 3:30 - 5pm Our support group brings people with diabetes together to learn and support each other through education by experts in the field and personal testimonies. Meeting held at the Diabetes & Health Education Center, 1 Hospital Drive, 3rd Floor Room 3308. For Information Call: Laura Tolle RD, LDN, CDE at 213-4788.

AL-Anon Support Group Every Wednesday, 11:30am - 12:30pm Support group of peers who share their experience in applying the Al-Anon principles to problems related to the effects of a problem drinker in their lives. Group meets at Pardee Signature Care Center at 1800 4 Seasons Blvd. in Hendersonville. For more information call (828) 692-4600.

Grief Support Groups Highlands Every Thursday, 11:30am - 12:30pm Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team will offer a weekly Grief Support Group. Group meets at 171 Hospital Drive in Highlands. No charge to attend. For more call (828) 450-7575.

Sylva Every Tuesday, 10:30am - 12:00pm Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team will offer a weekly Grief Support Group. Group meets at 100 County Services Park in Sylva. No charge to attend. For more call (828) 450-7575.

Write us to let us know what you think about Sophie! Send an e-mail to writer@sophiemagazine.com.

The deadline for calendar submissions is the 8th of every month.

Please send them to: writer@sophiemagazine.com.

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