January 2015
Cozy & Cuddly Mittens
Images By Kirsten Fuchs
New Year, New Rules Healthy Soups!
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Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 3
January 2015
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
smart • sophisticated • savvy
Feature
Publisher
21 Experience
Vincent Grassia
The Photography Of Kirsten Fuchs
Managing Editor
JeanAnn Taylor Creative Editor
26 Dancing A Dream
Debi Manfre
Katherine Wu shares her love of dance.
Production Manager
Lisa Gallagher
Beauty & Fashion 7 Winter Blues
Creative Services Specialist
Adalee Elkins
Electrify your winter closet and home with the color of Bright Cobalt.
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Contributor
Happy New Year Makeover
Carrie Harder
Jacqui Perry gives Traci Meyer a new look.
Proofing Diva
Healthy Living 29 Healthy Life
Karen Shepard Director of Advertising
Don’t just sit there, get moving.
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Let’s Get Cooking!
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Tried and True
Patricia Martin Betts
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Debi Manfre warms us up with her delicious soup recipes. Jackie Brown shares her super, easy Minestrone soup recipe.
Home & Garden 18 Paul’s Workbench
Paul Kline creates a snowflake that won’t melt.
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Crafty Girl
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Garden Bloomers
Easy-to-make polar fleece mittens.
Betty Sharpless and friend, Barbara travel to Scotland.
Share your ideas and inspirations.
Email writer@sophiemagazine.com with recipes, books, article ideas and calendar listings. Follow Sophie on Facebook and Pinterest. Scan this code to access
sophiemagazine.com Sophie-Magazine sophiemagavl 4 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Breaking Fashion Rules
The rules of fashion change over time and this year is no exception!
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Sun and Soil
Kristina Urquhart says January doesn’t have to be boring!
In Every Issue 8 Quick Tips
A variety of inspiration and information.
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Sophie Celebrates You!
28 37
Real Men Read Sophie Betty’s Book Review
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Meg’s Movie Review
The accomplishments and achievements of our readers are highlighted.
Betty’s shares the story of “Vampires In The Lemon Grove”. Meg gives “The Imitation Game” a 10 out of 10.
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 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.
Contributor’s Reflections AMy Renigar
I love my work with Girls on the Run so much that I often forget the tools and values we teach our girls about being joyful, healthy and confident also apply to me! My goal in 2015 is to focus on nurturing my physical, emotional and spiritual health, as well as recognizing my power and responsibility to be intentional in my decision making (especially when it comes to prioritizing time for exercise!).
Jacqui Perry
2014 was a year of changes for me and I was blessed with buying The Sanctuary Boutique. For 2015 my goal is to continue to grow my business while feeling blessed with all that God has planned for me in this new year!!!!
Kirsten Fuchs
In planning for the year to come, I have decided to focus on my passion for photography and let go of my social marketing business. At this stage of my life, I know the importance of doing what I love, spending time with family and doing what I can to be happy. I am so grateful for my husband in his support of my decisions.
CRAIG BURGWARDT
I’d like to be able to find an acceptable balance between work and play. Balance in all aspects of my life is going to be the key to making sure it pays off in both a business and personal sense. I’d like to get back on a regular workout regiment again. We all know that if we don’t take care of ourselves, we can’t take care of our loved ones.
Meg hale Brunton
I am looking forward to spending lots of one-on-one time in 2015 with my amazing husband Chris. After all, this may be the last year that there are only 2 of us in the house.
Kristina Urquhart
My goal for 2015 is to slow down and speed up: with a growing toddler in my charge, I hope to soak up every moment and enjoy this time in our lives while also being able to keep up!
DUNCAN CHABOUDY
Exercise will make me healthier and happier. My wife and I just signed up to a gym and hope to have a very healthy and happy 2015!
BETTY SHARPLESS
The next two years are going to be focused on getting my home and hearth into order. I have been gallivanting around the globe and neglecting my poor house and gardens. Next: start emptying the basement’s mystery boxes.
Debi Manfre
My goal for next year is to get back to painting and drawing. I can’t wait to get some paint on the canvas and some charcoal on paper.
Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 5
From the Editor
B
reaking the rules and making changes is what 2015 is all about. As you can see, Sophie is starting the New Year with a fresh cover look and a special center glossy section. This month we feature the amazing photography of Kirsten Fuchs. We’re breaking the rules of fashion with innovative color combinations and silhouettes. I encourage you to experiment and create your own fashion statement as well. (Page 10) For me personally, I’m determined to focus on what will make me healthier and happier this year. I’m making a commitment to myself,
so if some rules get broken along the way, that’s okay. I love the reflections from our contributors. Amy is recognizing her power and making intentional decisions. Kirsten is prioritizing her passions. Debi is getting back to painting, which makes her happy. Jacqui reminds us to be thankful. Whatever it takes to make you healthier and happier, I wish you strength, clarity, and a Happy New Year!
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.
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Winter Blues Electrify your winter closet and home with color that will make even the bluest winter day seem brighter.
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E.
C. D.
G.
B. F.
A. Blue notila ribbed sweater lyst.com B. Jessica Simpson Calie pumps heels.com C. Cabana geometric oversized pillow pier1.com D. Cobalt blue indoor table lamp lowes.com
E. Kim Rogers速 blue glass frontal necklace belk.com F. Cobalt blue wristlet suede clutch purse etsy.com G. Tahari ASL geometric print shift dress belk.com Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 7
Quick Tips
Skin Care Dos & Don’ts Here are some helpful skin care dos and don’ts to abide by to keep your skin looking healthy and flawless day in and day out! •
•
•
Carnation
fun flower facts The carnation, also known by the nickname ‘carn,’ has been cultivated for centuries for its ruffled blooms, favoured for its fragrance and hardiness. • The name “carnation” is derived from the words “coronation” or the Greek word “corone” (meaning flower garlands). • Over three hundred species of carnations and hundreds of hybrids exist, as this flower has been cultivated for the past two centuries in Asia and Europe. • The red carnation was adopted as the official state flower of Ohio. • In France, carnations are grown commercially for their oil, which is used in skin creams, as a muscle relaxant, and for the treatment of hair loss. • White carnations symbolize innocent love and are a traditional good luck gift for a woman. 8 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Drink plenty of water. Water is essential • for a healthy complexion. It flushes out the toxins in your body and keeps the rest of your insides on track and working properly. • Moisturize. Moisturizer is one of the most important beauty products out there. Using an overnight moisturizer is a great way to stay consistently hydrated. Exfoliate. Weekly exfoliation is a must to remove old dead skin cells and to make room for new cell regeneration. Using an exfoliation scrub gently once or twice a week can help to keep your skin glowing.
•
Don’t over do it. Don’t go overboard with your skin care routine. Keeping it as simple as possible will ensure a healthy complexion. Don’t over exfoliate. Doing a once or twice a week exfoliation to remove dead skin cells is a great way to keep your skin healthy. Over doing this can give you reverse effects. Avoid using harsh scrubs that will make the skin irritated and vulnerable. Don’t touch your face. This is easier said than done especially if you have a blemish that you can’t help but pester. When you touch your face with unclean hands you are pulling bacteria from your dirty hands to your face and providing more fuel for the blemishes
Homemade Hot Chocolate Mix Hot-chocolate mix is a wintertime staple. A homemade version is delicious and especially economical compared with store-bought mixes. This recipe makes 5 1/2 cups of dry mix. Ingredients: • 2 cups powdered sugar • 1 cup cocoa powder • 2 1/2 cups powdered lowfat milk • 1 tspn. salt • 2 tspns. cornstarch Directions: To make the mix: • Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and whisk thoroughly to combine. Pour into a large airtight container and store in a cool, dry place. To make a single serving: • Fill your mug halfway with hot cocoa mix, add hot water and stir. Don’t forget the marshmallows!
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Fun Things to Do When You’re Stuck Inside During Winter
It’s all too familiar during the winter. You are stuck inside, yet again, due to the latest snowstorm, bitterly cold polar vortex, or gloomy rain. But it doesn’t need to be an all-day drag when there are many fun activities at hand. Try any of these entertaining ideas, and note that catching up on extra work and doing chores are not on the fun list!
1.
10. 11. 12. 13.
Take a luxurious bath
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A good read
Plan your summer vacation
2.
Make an awesome breakfast
3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. 9.
Nap
14.
Scrapbooking
Indoor fort
Bake something
Afternoon tea
21.
Workout
Check out some good blogs
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1 5.
E njoy a hobby
Catch up with family and friends
Board games Dress-up day
Take an online class or tutorial Beauty treatments Redecorate Fireside camp out Pajama day in bed
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Grilled cheese and tomato soup
Popcorn and movie day
1 8.
Video game marathon
2 4.
Organize something
2 5.
Plan your garden Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 9
Breaking
Fashion Rules
The rules of fashion change over time and this year is no exception! Mixing elements of structure and color has become a trendy statement. Kirsten D’Onofrio hits downtown Asheville and models the latest styles.
A full top over a full skirt can be flattering with the right balance of color and design lines. Mixing white with creamy-white takes this look from mistake to modern.
10 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Un-tucked shirts say, “I’m stylish” without taking yourself too seriously. Mixing brown with black is no longer a no-no. Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 11
Pairing denim leggings with high heels, sparkly earrings and lace mixes casual elements with elegance.
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PHOTOGRAPHER:
Duncan Chaboudy duncanchaboudy.com 828.275.4774 Photo Assistant: Craig Burgwardt Clothing & Accessories by:
Asheville Mall 828.299.0932 hair & makeup:
Linda White
Asheville Mall 828.296.9463 Assistant Hair & Makeup:
Izabel Rivers Model:
Kirsten Donofrio Fashion Coordinator:
Angela Ramsey
Kirsten can brace the winter’s chill with this layered look. An un-tucked plaid shirt under an over-sized sweater, a flared black skirt, navy tights and taupe booties break all the rules while giving her a fresh outlook for the New Year.
Shoot Location provided by:
Asheville Flatiron Building The Miles Building Asheville, NC
Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 13
Happy New Year Makeover Written and Coordinated by Jacqui Perry | Photography by Kirsten Fuchs Happy New Year 2015!!!!! I am so excited about what this New Year will bring and look forward to all the wonder and blessings to come. Meet our first makeover model of the year, Traci Meyer. She is so uplifting and full of life. She gives her time and love to many and is so deserving of this makeover. Jacqui: You have been an educator for eighteen years. What is the most rewarding thing about your job? Traci: I teach at North Windy Ridge Intermediate School and I see children grow emotionally, physically and educationally. I love my students and realize that I am the best part of some of their days. So, I try to make a difference in their lives and let them know they are loved.
Before
Jacqui: Why do you want a makeover? Traci: My friend Susan wrote in for me to have a makeover and I was so excited when I got your call! I have become so routine that I don’t even think about me. I go into robotic mode and get things done but I realize it’s important to take time for me. I am looking forward to a day of pampering. Jacqui: What do you look forward to in the New Year? Traci: I want to enjoy the moment! We are so fixated on finding balance that we miss the moments that are so important. Let it go! Enjoy the moment!!! Jacqui: Any New Year’s resolutions? Traci: I used to make resolutions but now I just want to be a good role model and make more memories with my husband and kids. I want to be healthy as well! I have to admit that I am addicted to my Fit Bit! I love it and wear it everywhere. It makes me move so I know that I am doing something good for me. It also helps me think about what I eat so I eat healthier. I find myself plotting ways to take more steps!!! What a wonderful woman this gal is! I really think she is supermom and I hope this mom gets all she wishes for in 2015. I know she is already beautiful inside and out!
Clothes and accessories: Belk, Asheville Mall Salon Manager: Linda White for Carmen! Carmen! at Belk Hair: Jessica Dodd for Carmen! Carmen! at Belk Makeup: Izabel Rivers for Carmen! Carmen! at Belk Photographer: Kirsten Fuchs
Traci after 14 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Interested in a makeover? Send your photo and 75 words of why you need a makeover to info@luminousyouinc.com.
Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 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.
Cathleen Adams, MBA, RN, CHPCA, named CarePartners Chief Nursing Officer. In her role, Ms. Adams is responsible for the development and overall management of post acute nursing services throughout the organization including the establishment of nursing standards of practice as well as patient standards of care.
Teresa K. Bradley, M.D., a board-certified family physician with Park Ridge Health, has achieved the Degree of Fellow of the American Academy of Family Physicians. Dr. Bradley was one of 200 family physicians who received the degree at the AAFP’s recent annual meeting in Washington, D.C.
Signature Chef Chris Aquilino of Mission Catering, recently captured the coveted March of Dimes People’s Choice Award at the 2014 March of Dimes Signature Chefs Auction and Gala.
Kathy Poling, RN, MA, ACM of Mission Health, has been honored by Community Care of North Carolina as a 2014 Healthcare Quality Award winner. She was recognized for her transparency, openness and innovation, making her a role model for facilitating hospital system collaboration within the community.
Kolandaivelu Ramaswamy, M.D, will be providing acute care surgical services at Mission Hospital and follow-up visits at Regional Surgical Specialists.
Marie Reed, of Exit Realty Vistas is proud to be announced as the Top Seller and Top Producer for the month of November.
Mike Sidorovic , of E xi t Realty Vistas is proud to be announced as the Top Lister for the month of November.
Wanda Marie Lapointe is Exit Realty Vistas’ new Training Coordinator. She has been a Realtor since 2012 and has been affiliated with Exit Realty Vistas for two years.
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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 JANUARY 2015 | 17
Crafty Girl
Cute And Cozy Created by JeanAnn Taylor
Three little kittens lost their mittens and two little girls found them! You can make a pair for yourself or someone else with easy-to-use polar fleece. Go to sophiemagazine.com for complete directions! Hancock Fabrics at River Ridge Shopping Center in Asheville, NC has a huge selection of colors and prints!
Sweet sisters Rozzalyn and Skyelyn Burdett keep their hands warm and cozy with soft pink mittens.
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Paul’s Workbench
This Snowflake Won’t Melt! Created by Paul Kline
Are you looking for a fun afternoon project to do while the weather outside is freezing? Make a snowflake! I took scraps of wood to create this wooden snowflake and simply glued the pieces together. You can look online to find different snowflake patterns or create your own original piece.
Paul Kline is the owner of North Star Construction. Visit nscbuilds.com.
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Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 19
Garden Bloomers
A Perfect Trip To Scotland Written by Betty Sharpless
T
his summer I was lucky enough to travel to Scotland with my good friend Barbara. We had promised each other to take this trip years ago when we were both caring for our elderly parents. Although we put it off for a year, it was one of the best trips I have ever taken. We used Trip Advisor and Booking.com to secure our bed and breakfasts. After many different tries, we found that traveling to Dublin (direct flight from Charlotte) then using Ryan Air to get to Scotland was the best deal. After a day in Dublin, fighting off jet lag, we landed in Edinburgh right on schedule and with our body’s bio clocks synched to the United Kingdom. Following Rick Steve’s advice we took the bus to Waverly Station, just blocks from our great B&B. Edinburgh is the ancestral seat of power in historic Scotland, and definitely a fun town for several days visits. There is the historic area, including fun evening tours of the underground Edinburgh, beautiful parks, shopping and great restaurants. I really enjoyed just heading out on foot and getting lost on purpose. Each turning had fun new discoveries. From Edinburgh we took the train to Inverness in northern Scotland. Although we did not meet “Nessie” , as the locals call her, we had a great tour on Loch Ness and the Castle at Urqhart. (Fans of the Outlander series will recognize this castle.) We also had the BEST MEAL of the entire trip at a little pub with a 5 star Trip Advisor sticker in their window. At the Waterfront restaurant I had amazing smoked halibut and we also enjoyed live music. From Inverness we headed to Oban, where we spent a lovely 4 days. Oban is a lovely sea town close to the isles of Mull, Staffa and Iona. We were lucky enough to hit a local charity festival there. The next day we took an island tour of the three isles and I got to eat fresh mussels twice in one day, once on Iona and once back in Oban. The best day in Oban for me was a wonderful half-day kayaking adventure with the folks at Kayak Oban. I had never kayaked on the sea before. Let me tell you the big boats looked really big from the seat of a tiny little kayak! Our wonderful guide Chris was great and really helped me work on my paddling technique. We pulled into the bay just before the sky opened up in a downpour! Using the Internet we were able to book our last two nights back to Dublin then home. Since my last trip abroad, WIFI has become available at all the places we stayed, making traveling so much easier. Although I took my smart phone, I never had to call on it, using my tablet for any necessary communications. What a money saver! Also, for all you travel dreamers, I cannot recommend starting with Scotland traveling enough. The people 20 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Betty and Barbara at Edinburgh Castle.
are so nice and helpful. The public transportation is amazing! There is WIFI on the trains and a special compartment if you are taking your bike on the train. The bus drivers were friendly and everyone was helpful giving directions. I wish we had had more time to spend in Scotland, but we are already talking about the next time we go to Scotland.
Betty Sharpless is a professional gardener who will have to wait to tell you about her trip to Sicily until NEXT January! Bon Voyage Sophie readers!
The Photography Of Kirsten Fuchs
kirstenfuchs.com
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kirstenfuchs.com 22 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
kirstenfuchs.com Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 23
kirstenfuchs.com
828.216.9141 kirstenfuchs.com 24 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
kirstenfuchs.com
Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 25
Dancing A Dream
Written by JeanAnn Taylor | Photograph by Fred Schofield
I
t takes courage to follow your dreams. Especially when your dream goes against everything you grew up with, and everything you’ve worked toward for many years. It was a leap of faith, determination, and a desire to live the life she loves that gave Katherine Wu the strength to follow her heart and leave her career as an astrophysicist to become a ballroom dance instructor. Katherine took ballet lessons as a young girl, but stopped when she was 12 years old to focus on her schoolwork. She was an excellent student and found that she was more interested in going to science fairs and math clubs. During her high school years, she attended the NC School of Science and Mathematics. While there she took an astronomy class and it peaked her interest to the point that after she graduated, she looked for a college with a strong science program. She attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where she continued to explore her interest in physics and astronomy. In her junior and senior years, she had the opportunity to get a taste of astronomy research. To get away from the stress of exams and class work, she and a friend decided to try a shag dance workshop, which introduced her to the ballroom dance club on campus. The dance club was a wonderful distraction, and she credits it for planting the seed for her ultimate desire to become a ballroom dancer. She went on to graduate school at the University of California at Santa Cruz and while there, between her graduate work, she began taking ballroom dance lessons. Within a few years, she began competing and started to realize that performing was something she truly enjoyed. The juxtaposition of the technical science world and the glitzy dance world was apparent, and she felt very lucky to be a part of both worlds. In her thesis work, she studied the evolution of galaxy morphology, the study of how galaxy shapes change over time. In her dancing, she started to develop the expressiveness of each dance. Both pushed her creativity, though in different ways. Katherine’s ultimate career plan was to teach. “I love to pass on information I’ve learned,” she explains. “I love it when I’m teaching, and a student, who is struggling, suddenly has that A-HA! moment!” After graduation, she was offered a position at the University of Florida in Gainesville as a Post Doctoral Researcher. This position would allow her to work with other astronomers to study the evolution of the universe itself! Before she left California, her dance instructors encouraged her to contact Timothy and Michele Mason, national champions who live inTampa, Florida. After meeting them, Katherine decided that, even though it meant a four hour drive round trip each time she took a lesson, she was more than willing to make the drive once or twice each week! “It was SO worth the trip every time, and the drive back home often flew by as I was processing all the 26 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
information I’d learned that night!” she says. Katherine kept her commitment of traveling back and forth from Gainesville to Tampa for three years, until she was offered a job at the University of Tampa. “I thought this would be perfect,” she says. “I could continue dance training with the Masons and teach astronomy and physics at the university.” For the next four years, Katherine lived as physics professor during the day and dance teacher on nights and weekends. It was during this time that she began to consider teaching dance full-time. The decision was not easy. Katherine had just spent many years in the field of astronomy, getting her Ph.D., and “landing” a university position... what was originally her dream job! To walk away from a secure, stable, and respected career “just” to dance seemed risky. And after all this time and effort, she felt she owed it to herself to give astronomy a try. So she continued teaching at the university for four years. But, dreams change!... and, in 2007, she made the leap. She resigned her job at the university and became a full time ballroom dance instructor. As a dance teacher she was doing two things that she loved, and she felt so very fortunate! But she realized she didn’t want to stay in Florida. The draw of the North Carolina Mountains were calling her name. “I’ve always loved the mountains,” she explains.“It’s such a peaceful and beautiful place to get awayfrom the concrete world.” Katherine’s love of dance had drawn her out of the professional scienceworld and now her love of the mountains was calling her. “Moving was a daunting decision,” she says.“I have always had a secure job set up before I ever made a move. But I’m learning to trust myself. I trusted my instincts when they told me I could be a successful dance instructor, and then I trusted myself when I decided to move to Asheville. I’m loving my new life here! It’s not easy, but I’m learning to listen to my own voice. Life is short and we don’t know what tomorrow will bring. We have to live the life we love, today.”
Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 27
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!
Ronnie Hannah, Buddy Player, and Carl Dean of Four Seasons Ford
28 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Healthy Life
Made To Move! Written and photographed by JeanAnn Taylor Consultation by Dianne Rose
W
hen I decided to run a series on fitness, I knew I needed expert advice. I had been impressed with Dianne Rose since the first day I met her at her studio, Rose Pilates. She knew exactly what I needed to do to fix several ailments: the enduring pain from a severely torn hamstring, a shoulder that just wouldn’t quit hurting for some unknown reason, and feet that had spent too many hours in high heels. Beginning with this issue, Dianne and I will collaborate on several fitness and health topics to bring you the safest and most up-todate information available.
get a standing or treadmill desk. Exchanging your desk chair for a fitness ball is an excellent way to engage muscles that are not used during the typical workday. Dianne has several exercises you can do at your desk. Go to sophiemagazine.com for the complete list and directions.
We’re going to start our series with a problem many of us face daily, sitting for extended periods of time. You probably know that sitting isn’t good for you, but do you know that sitting for eight hours each day may actually shorten your life? The first and most obvious problem of extended sitting is weight gain. Weight gain is more serious than your clothes becoming a bit too tight. Gaining weight has many negative health consequences that can lead to serious diseases. Sitting leads to soft muscles in your abdomen, hips, and glutes. These are the muscles we rely on for posture, balance and stability. Weak muscles increase our likelihood of falling because they aren’t strong enough to support body weight, or quick enough to respond. Extended sitting is actually one of the main reasons people fall! Other consequences of sitting for extended periods of time include slow blood circulation, which causes fluid to pool in your legs. This results in swollen ankles and varicose veins. Osteoporosis is also a consequence of sitting too long, too often. Movement promotes blood circulation all over your body including your brain. When we are sedentary, everything slows down and we become lethargic and less productive. According to a Mayo Clinic study, two hours of sitting cancels out twenty minutes of exercise. Our bodies were made to move! So, what can we do in this deskbound world we live in? First, it’s important to stand as often as possible. If you are at a computer writing, entering data, or designing; take a break at once an hour. Walk to the bubbler, to the back of the room, anything! Just get up out of your chair and move!
V raises: Hold your arms down to your sides and a little away from your body in a V shape. Thumbs are pointing out to opposite corners, reach arms up and out to a wide V, thumbs are now pointing to the back wall, lower and repeat at least 8 to 10 times.
For a quick fix; stand whenever you are talking on the phone. Suggest a “walking meeting” with your co-workers whenever feasible. If possible,
This information is not intended to be a substitute for medical advice. Before starting any exercise or food modification program, consult with your medical professional. Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 29
Girls on the Run is a non-profit that envisions a world where every girl knows and activates her limitless potential and is free to boldly pursue her dreams! The 12 week, 24 lesson program for girls in 3rd–8th grade combines training for a 5K with fun, uplifting team activities. Each lesson is led by trained volunteer coaches who inspire their team of girls to be joyful, healthy & confident. The more coaches involved, the more girls GOTR of WNC can serve! “Being in a position to teach the girls and help them set and obtain the Become a Coach! goal of being able to complete the 5k was wonderful. There is never a better Anyone with a desire to work with girls feeling than knowing that you made a positive difference in the lives of our 8-14 years old, and enjoys (or wants to future leaders.” - Nikita Smart, GOTR of WNC Coach enjoy?) physical exercise is welcome to apply to be a volunteer coach. You do not need to be a runner or have previous coaching experience, but here is what is required: • Attend the Coach Training on Saturday, January 31 at UNC-Asheville Sherrill Center. 9a-Noon: Free CPR/FA certification & 1p-4p: Coach Training. • Help deliver GOTR lessons for 75–90 minutes 2 afternoons per week for 12 weeks (February—May) • Attend the celebratory GOTR 5K on May 16. • Bring energy and enthusiasm to Girls on the Run! For complete details and to register, visit the Coaches Corner at gotrwnc.org, or contact Jennifer Ingle at 828-713-3132 or jennifer.ingle@girlsontherun.org.
learn. dream. live. run. western north carolina 30 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
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.
The Finish Line is Just the Beginning! The Girls on the Run 5k hosted at UNC-Asheville on December 6 marked the end of the 12-week/24-lesson Girls on the Run program for 550 strong, brave 3rd-8th grade girls across 11 counties in WNC. An estimated 1,500 people braved the cold and rain to share in the joy and excitement of Girls on the Run! This celebratory, non-competitive event is the culminating experience of the curriculum. Completing the 5k gives the girls a tangible understanding of the confidence that comes through accomplishment as well as a framework for setting and achieving life goals. Crossing the finish line is a defining moment when the girls realize that even the seemingly impossible IS possible. Thanks to GOTR of WNC Sponsor, Inspired Life Photography, for the 5k photos! The complete photo gallery can be found at: inspiredlifephotographync.com/blog/.
YES! Strong girls can CHANGE THE WORLD!
Sand Hill-Venable in a pre-race team huddle.
Swain West Elementary use “turtle power” to show their GOTR spirit!
Nadine and Kelly share a joyful daughter-mother finish! Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 31
Sun & Soil
Rest & Relax Written by Kristina Urquhart
W
ith the flurry of the holidays behind us, but a bit of cold still ahead, homesteaders tend to fall into one of two categories this time of year. First, there are those that fully embrace the doldrums of winter, curling up inside, resting and rejuvenating for the year ahead. These homesteaders recharge their batteries by whatever suits their fancy: lots of good books, marathon TV shows, spending time with family, or traveling. And then there are those that can’t sit still: they prepare, they plan, and they preen, riding a fine line between getting ready for the coming year and jumping the gun a bit. Those in the latter camp do whatever they’re able to do with the limited resources and limited warmth of January.
I wish I could say that I relax, unwind and enjoy the cold months to slow down, but that’s simply not the case. I fall firmly into category number two. January is a time to ramp up: I plan my garden, research and read up about new projects, place orders for seeds and equipment, get ahead on writing assignments, and most importantly, fantasize about what my homestead will look like in the year to come. Will we add any new animals this year? I’ve been dreaming of raising my own meat chickens and our own Thanksgiving turkey. What will I grow in the garden? I’m strategizing ways on staying ahead of the cabbageworms so that I may finally harvest cruciferous veggies this year (two of my toddler daughter’s favorite foods are broccoli and cauliflower so I’m determined to grow them for her!). I firmly believe that any success I manage to achueve throughout the year can be attributed to my winter planning and scheming. But if you’re not like me, and wondering what to do during the winter lulls, here are a few ideas: Plan the Garden. Most gardeners already do this to some degree in the winter. Especially if space is at a minimum, and you’re only able to grow so much, it helps to have a game plan to wisely use the space you have. What do you and your family eat the most? What is your gardening experience and what have you grown in the past? If you’re new to gardening, start with simple, low-maintenance crops. Weed out (so to speak) crops that you don’t enjoy eating, and only plant those you like to eat. Get Educated! If you plan to take on a new homesteading endeavor this year, January is the time to do your research. Go to the library to check out books on your new project, or purchase used books on Amazon (personally, I like to buy my homesteading books so I always have references handy in my personal library). Join online forums for your subject and ASK QUESTIONS. There are thousands of educated individu32 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
als in the top of their field ready and willing to help newcomers – you may even consider asking someone local to be your mentor. Asheville is a great place to take classes on homesteading subjects as well: Buncombe and Henderson counties offer 6 week long beekeeping courses; local author and homesteader (and personal friend!) Ashley English teaches a chickenkeeping class at ABTech, and For Villagers, the boutique homesteading store in West Asheville, offers dozens of small classes on everything from knife making to lacto fermentation. Place Orders! Whether you’re getting spring chicks, or trying your hand at keeping a few honeybee hives, you’ll want to place your order for equipment as soon as you have made your decisions. If you’re lucky, you may even hit some post-holiday sales! See? January doesn’t have to be boring! And even if you’re a Category 1 type of person, you can do just about everything listed above while cozy on the couch, in front of the fire, with a hot mug of tea. Follow Kristina Mercedes Urquhart’s homesteading exploits on her blog, kristinamercedes.tumblr.com. In the November recipe for the Grass-Fed Bone Broth the 1 cup filtered water measure was incorrect. It should read: Filtered water; enough to cover the bones.
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Let’s Get Cooking
Easy & Delicious
Soups
Love the convenience of a one-dish meal simmering on the stove or slow cooker? Then prepare one of these soup recipes for some no-fuss hearty comfort food.
Written by Debi Manfre
Slow Cooker Chicken and Wild Rice Soup Hearty chicken and wild rice soup that is made in the slow cooker. This simple soup is always a hit! Ingredients: • 1 medium onion, chopped • 3 carrots, peeled and chopped • 3 stalks celery, chopped • 2 cloves garlic, finely chopped • 1 cup uncooked wild rice, rinsed and drained • 2 bay leaves • 1/2 tspn. dried thyme • Salt and black pepper, to taste • 4 boneless skinless chicken breasts (about 2 pounds) • 10 cups low-sodium chicken broth • 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley Directions: • In a 6 quart slow cooker, combine onion, carrots, celery, garlic, wild rice, bay leaves, thyme, salt, and pepper. Top with chicken breast halves. Add the chicken broth. • Place the lid on the slow cooker and cook on low heat setting for 6 to 6 1/2 hours or on high-heat setting about 3 1/2 hours. • Carefully remove chicken and shred with two forks. Return to the slow cooker and stir. Remove the bay leaves. Add the parsley and season with additional salt and pepper, to taste. Makes about 8 servings 34 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Curried Lentil Soup Ingredients: • 1 tblspn. olive oil • 1 cup chopped onion • 2 crushed garlic cloves • 2 tblspns. curry powder • 2 (14 1/2 oz.) cans fat-free, reduced-sodium chicken broth (4 cups) • 2 1/2 cups water • 2 cups canned tomatoes, chopped • 2 cups lentils, uncooked • 1 cup carrots, diced • 1/2 cup red wine (optional) • 1 cup parsley • Salt and pepper to taste Directions: • In a large soup pot, heat oil; sauté onion and garlic, until soft. • Stir in curry powder; sauté 1 minute. • Add broth, water, tomatoes, lentils, carrots and optional wine; simmer covered, until lentils are cooked, about 45 minutes.
Tried And True
Easy Minestrone Soup
M
Written and prepared by Jackie Brown
ove over can soup, there is a super easy minestrone soup you will find on my stove top during the chilly January days. It uses fresh or frozen vegetables that you have on hand. This versatile soup will fit any taste buds. Your favorite canned beans, like white, light or dark kidney beans, garbonzos or navy taste delicious. I love how easy the the soup base comes together with a carton of chicken or vegetable broth and diced tomatoes. There’s enough to last several days while packing a nutritional punch. Try it completely vegan style; you won’t miss the meat, I promise. Your favorite pasta will fill you up. Or feel free to add some leftover diced or shredded meat for a much heartier soup. Keep this large batch warmed in a crock pot and serve with crusty bread and olive oil dipping sauce for your next winter gathering.
• Stir in parsley, salt and pepper; simmer 5 minutes. Makes about 6-8 servings
Find more soup recipes on sophiemagazine.com
Easy Minestrone Soup Ingredients: • 1 tablespoon olive oil • 3 garlic cloves, minced • 1 large onion, finely chopped • 2 medium sweet peppers, chopped • 2 - 28 oz. cans diced tomatoes • 1 - 14 oz. can garbonzo, kidney or navy beans, rinsed and well drained • 1 - 32 oz. carton low-sodium vegetable or chicken broth • 2 cups water • 1/4 cup sweet basil or other fresh herbs, chopped or 1 tablespoon Italian seasoning • 1 cup dry rigatoni, penne or macaroni pasta • 3 cups baby spinach • Shaved or shredded Parmesan, optional Directions: • In a large pot, saute garlic, onion and peppers in olive oil over medium heat. • Add remaining ingredients, except pasta and spinach. Bring to a boil over high heat. • Add pasta. Reduce heat to medium and cook covered for 10 minutes or until pasta is al dente. • Add spinach. Ladle into bowls and top with freshly grated Parmesan cheese if desired. Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 35
36 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
Betty’s Book Review
Vampires in the Lemon Grove Review by Betty Sharpless
T
o call Karen Russell’s newest book quirky would be an understatement. If you want mindless sugar coated reading, this book is not for you. A collection of short stories, the only thing these stories have in common is the author and that they are short stories. While I loved reading this book, I was glad it was in small bites of reading material. Each story is so different from the previous one and every one is uniquely thought provoking and, well, odd. When you take time to explore this collection, stop between stories to digest what you have just finished. The next story also will be so mind blowing that you will forget the previous one! These stories are often otherworldly, but totally acceptable in our current lifetimes. The normalcy of the odd stories told is one of the author’s trademarks. Throughout my enjoyment of this collections, I often thought “How in the world does she come up with these ideas???”. If you love the unexpected, you will love this book
Betty Sharpless is a professional gardener and writer in Asheville, North Carolina.
Vampires in the Lemon Grove By Karen Russell
Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 37
Meg’s Movie Review
“The Imitation Game” Written by Meg Hale Brunton
W
ell Boys and Girls, I have my Best Picture pick for this year! Through the Asheville Film Society, I have just seen an early screening of the Alan Turing bio-pic “The Imitation Game,” and was blown away. Of course, my husband the tech-guy knew all about Turing as the inventor of the first computer, but I really didn’t know anything about him. “The Imitation Game” is the story of how Turing first got started working for the British government’s cypher and code-breaking dept. at Bletchley Park during WWII. In the film, a commander with the British military seeks Turing out and asks him to join a small, select team of mathematicians to try to crack the nearly-unbreakable code system (called Enigma) that the Nazis are using to communicate strategic information. Turing not only reforms the group to be made mostly of people who are good at puzzles, but he also designs a machine that should be able to decypher the code by ‘thinking’. This first version of a computer, he lovingly names Christopher, after his only friend from school. Winston Churchill stated that he believed Alan Turing contributed more than any individual to the defeat of the Nazi regime. Turing is played by the ever-prolific Benedict Cumberbatch (“Star Trek: Into Darkness”). Cumberbatch is perfect for the role, as most of his career has been playing men who are brilliant, driven and somewhat inept at dealing with people (i.e. Sherlock Holmes, Julian Assange, Khan). He shines especially in this film however, in my opinion. His performance brings such intensity, frustration, and grief to the role. You simultaneously understand how and why Turing was not well-liked by many of his peers, while also being shocked at the treatment of a hero of his stature by the British government. While I think Cumberbatch is all-around wonderful in “The Imitation Game,” and better darn-well get an Oscar-nod for it, I think he’ll lose to the guy who’s playing Stephen Hawking in that bio-pic. I haven’t seen it yet, but I just don’t think a role like that is beat-able (like when Meryl Streep played Queen Elizabeth - we didn’t even have to see that movie to know who was going home with the award). The rest of the cast does a nice job of primarily playing foils to Turing’s eccentricities. Keira Knightley (“Pirates of the Caribbean”) plays Joan, a young English woman who excels at solving puzzles but has never been given a chance to shine at mathematics, since the time period finds her better suited to secretarial work, or telephone operating. She also doubles as a potential love interest for Turing. Matthew Goode (“The Watchmen”) plays Hugh Alexander, a much more widely-acknowledged 38 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
math-mind at the time (prior to Turing) who is charming and suave, everything Turing is not. And the always-forboding Mark Strong (“Tinker, Tailor, Soldier, Spy”) plays Turing’s link to the British Secret Service. I found “The Imitation Game” to be a fascinating, while tragic, story that is masterfully put together on film and epically-acted. A great deal of the documents on which the film was based were only recently released to public-record, so that even people who know the story about Alan Turing don’t know the whole story. And this is a part of our history that I think everyone should know. I strongly recommend it and give it 10 of my 10 stars.
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Sophie JANUARY 2015 | 39
January
CALENDAR OF EVENTS New Year’s Polar Plunge January 1, 10:30am - 1pm An extreme way to wake up on New Year’s Day! Plunge into Lake Lure and you’ll be freezin’ for a reason: all proceeds support local fire and rescue workers. Event held at Lake Lure Beach on Memorial Hwy. in Lake Lure, NC. Visit hickorynutchamber.org for more info.
TVS Art Exhibit at TC Arts January 7 - 16 Transylvania Vocational Services will have their clients’ artwork on display at the Transylvania Community Arts Council which is located at 349 S. Caldwell Street in Brevard. For more information, call (828) 884-2787.
American Business Women’s Association Meeting January 8, 5:30 - 7:30pm Our guest speaker will be David McAfoos, Financial Advisor, with Morgan Stanley. He will be talking about “Women and Wealth”, covering retirement, health care costs and various topics about challenges and planning ahead. This is a dinner meeting $25 and networking. Meeting will be held at the Crowne Plaza Resort in Asheville. RSVP at abwaskyhychapter@gmail.com.
American Kennel Club Dog Agility Trial January 16 - 18, 8am - 3pm More than 300 purebred dogs, from throughout the Southeast, will compete at various levels of difficulty. Event held at the WNC Agricultural Center. Free admission. Spectators are welcome. Spectators please leave your dogs at home. Visit blueridgeagility.com for more information.
TC Arts Performing Arts Talent Competition January 27 & 28, 4 - 8pm The TC Arts Council and Executive Planners, NC to host a talent competition for youth aged 10 – 17. Deadline to enter is January 15 at 5 pm. The auditions will be held at the TC Arts Council on January 27 and 28 from 4-8 pm, with judges selecting the finalist to perform for the public on Friday, January 30 at 7 pm on the stage of Brevard Little Theatre. For more info., call Tammy Hopkins at (828) 884-2787. 40 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
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 offer a weekly Grief Support Group. Group meets at 171 Hospital Drive in Highlands. No charge to attend. Call (828) 450-7575 for more info. Sylva Every Tuesday, 10:30am - 12:00pm Four Seasons Compassion for Life Bereavement Team offer a weekly Grief Support Group. Group meets at 100 County Services Park in Sylva. No charge to attend. Call (828) 450-7575 for more info.
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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Concerning Our Community Pardee Protects Patients From The Flu
Pardee Hospital has enforced the Visitor Restriction Policy which limits hospital patient’s visitation to immediate family only and no one under 18 years of age. “The health of our patients and the community are the highest concern of Pardee Hospital. Our policies and actions are designed to protect those at greatest risk during the flu season. There is an increase in reported influenza-like illnesses throughout North Carolina. The number of cases showing influenza like symptoms has surpassed the safe levels set by the North Carolina Public Health Division. As a result Pardee has implemented flu restrictions as of Friday, December 5. Early data suggests the 20142015 flu season could be severe, and Pardee Hospital’s flu-restrictions will provide a safe environment for our patients and team members” stated Andrea Whitmire, Infection Prevetionist for Pardee Hospital. This policy was put in action based off new information released from the Center of Disease Control (CDC). The restriction will remain in effect until infection rates drop below the critical levels within the region. For more information about Pardee Hospital visit pardeehospital.org.
Jazz Master Sheila Jordan To Visit Wnc To Perform And Give Workshops
Sheila Jordan received the highest honor for her outstanding contribution to America’s art form, jazz: the Jazz Master Award presented by the National Endowment for the Arts, in 2012. She has just turned 86 years of age and she continues to tour the world touching thousands of souls with her music and her teaching. A golden opportunity for singers and instrumentalists alike, Ms. Jordan will present the following performances and workshops: Wednesday, January 21: Private lessons available. Thursday, January 22, 7 p.m.: Sheila in Concert with Bill Bares, Mike Holstein and Sonny Thornton co-sponsored by Arts Council of Henderson County at the Cummings Memorial United Methodist Church in Horse Shoe. Friday, January 23, 3:30 p.m.: Workshop at Western Carolina University 7:30 p.m. Sheila in Concert with Pavel Wlosok and Mike Holstein Sunday, January 25, 8 p.m.: Sheila in Concert with Bill Bares, Mike Holstein and Sonny Thornton at at the ISIS Restaurant and Music Hall Monday, January 26, 10 a.m.: Workshop at UNCA 6:30 p.m.: Workshop at Asheville Music School Contact Sharon LaMotte, (828) 280-3770, to reserve space and make advance deposit for the Saturday workshop and/or Monday evening workshops. Contact Elise Pratt, (828) 891-9433, for more information. Sponsors for the various events include: Arts Council of Henderson County, Cummings Memorial United Methodist Church, Western Carolina 42 | Sophie JANUARY 2015
University, ISIS Restaurant and Music Hall in West Asheville, University of NC Asheville and Asheville Music School. For more information please contact the Arts Council of Henderson County at (828) 693-8504 or acofhc@bellsouth.net.
Pan Harmonia Sonata Series
Pan Harmonia announces its Sonata Series, a sequence of four programs from late January to early May featuring a variety of instruments and treasured sonatas from the chamber music repertoire. Performances take place at White Horse Black Mountain and Kate Steinbeck, Pan Harmonia Artistic Director in the newly renovated sanctuary of Asheville First Presbyterian Church. This project is supported by a grant from the North Carolina Arts Council. Pan Harmonia has received support from the NC Arts Council for its artistic excellence since 2007. The January concerts feature Russian, French and American works: Serge Prokofiev’s epic Sonata for flute and piano, a riveting contemporary Sonata for viola and piano by American Jennifer Higdon and the ethereal Prelude, Recitative and Variations for flute, viola and piano by Maurice Duruflé. Audiences may purchase a Sonata Series subscription for all four programs. For more information, call (828) 254-7123. To see a complete calendar of their performances for 2015, visit pan-harmonia.org.
Park Ridge Health Implements Flu Restrictions For 20142015 Season
Due to a sharp increase in influenza-like illness across the state in the past week as reported by the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services, Park Ridge Health has implemented visitor restrictions. In order to protect patients, visitors, providers and staff, the following restrictions are in place at Park Ridge Health until March 31, 2015: • No hospital visitors under the age of 18 permitted. • Visitors are limited to immediate family and clergy only. • The number of visitors is limited to one at a time, unless special circumstances are presented. • No hospital visitors with cough or other flu symptoms permitted. The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has noted that the primary strain of flu that has presented recently is an H3N2 variant, which, at its last appearance, caused a severe flu season. The incidence of influenza-like illness in the western North Carolina region is accounting for more than 2 percent of all outpatient visits and more than 3 percent of all emergency department visits. All regions of North Carolina are showing an increase in influenza-like illness. The Centers for Disease Control recommends the flu vaccine as the most important preventative measure this flu season. For up-to-date information on the flu, please visit flu.nc.gov.
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