Meet
VOLUME TWO, ISSUE TWO
an Alabama maker
Activ ate your year h wit
Energy. Cheer. Spunk. Strength.
LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE. Support Breast Cancer Health In Every County in Alabama with a year-end donation to Joy to Life.
Get first-class cancer treatment at the best place possible. Right here at home. Montgomery Cancer Center has been accredited by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons, joining a list of prestigious cancer centers like Johns Hopkins, MD Anderson and Mayo Clinic. We are constantly striving for excellence and this accreditation confirms that we are delivering a level of cancer care that only the most elite cancer centers in America can offer. Our goal is to be here for our community with the highest level of treatment and patient-centered care, so you never have to leave home.
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Hello everyone and happy winter!
W IN TER 2019
I love this issue of the Joy to Life
PUBLISHER
magazine for a couple of personal Photography by Big Dreamz Creative
reasons. The first is that Beverly Helton, the featured person in the Real Life section (page 30), is one of my personal heroes. She has struggled greatly through two female cancers, and come out on the other side happy and stronger than ever. I cannot wait for you to read about her journey! The second is that I actually have a connection to Dr. Ruth Penton Polson that I did not even know about, and I hope you enjoy reading about it on page 14. Ruth Penton is the designer of the most creative and adorable leggings I have seen in a very long time. I absolutely love her philosophy on balancing work and purpose in life. There are so many great articles in
ful for their continued support. Take a moment to check them out and let them know how much you appreciate them. I am so proud of our magazine and I hope you enjoy it. And if you do, sign up for a subscription at joytoflifemagazine.org and get a full year (four packed issues!) delivered right to your door for only $10. Have a wonderful holiday season, a happy and healthy new year and stay safe and warm!
this winter issue. Read about cozy bedding made by Red Land Cotton in Moulton, Alabama, and in the Fit for Kids section read all about raising grateful kids. There is something for
Joy Blondheim
everyone in this issue.
Editor & Co-Founder, Joy to Life Foundation
Finally, I want to thank our loyal advertisers. We are extremely grate-
A BIG T H A NK YOU!
P.S. I almost forgot:
There’s a great article on improving your memory on page 32!
JTL Publishing EDITOR Joy Blondheim MANAGING EDITOR Jennifer Stewart Kornegay ART DIRECTOR Erika Rowe Tracy DIGITAL MEDIA PRODUCERS Big Dreamz Creative MARKETING Margaret Fields COPY EDITOR Jenny Enslen Stubbs CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Jennifer Stewart Kornegay, Cheyenne Martin, Jenny Enslen Stubbs, Melissa Tate Witt CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS Big Dreamz Creative, Erika Rowe Tracy COVER CREATIVE & PHOTOGRAPHY Nancy Fields/Big Dreamz Creative
ON THE COVER: Dr. Ruth Penton Polson, founder of REP Active Art, and her daughter Emma show off REP’s colorful leggings topped with fun winter fashions from Welle Studio in Montgomery.
Joy to Life is published quarterly by JTL Publishing. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without permission from the publisher. Joy to Life reserves the right to determine the suitability of all materials submitted for publication and to edit all submitted materials for clarity and space. Joy to Life is not responsible for damage, loss or any other injury to unsolicited manuscripts and/or unsolicited artwork. This includes, but is not limited to, drawings, photography, transparencies or any other unsolicited material. Joy to Life does not knowingly accept false or misleading advertising or editorial. The publishers do not assume responsibility should such advertising or editorial appear. Joy to Life is a news magazine with information on health, leisure activities and a healthy lifestyle. Readers are advised to consult their physicians before participating in any sport or fitness activity or starting any exercise, dietary or nutritional program published in Joy to Life.
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IMAGE COURTESY OF REP ACTIVE / SYDNEY BORDEN
WINTER
24
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IMAGE COURTESY OF RED LAND COTTON/ EMILY DORIO
ISSUE 06
FEATURES
06
THE FIBER OF FAMILY
HAPPY PANTS 32 TO LIFE
Don’t Forget: Improving Memory
16 THE DISH
36 GREAT GOODS
Powerful Peppermint
18 FIT FOR KIDS
Products & Gear
An Attitude of Gratitude
20 FORWARD MOTION
41 IN BALANCE Living Water
44 SKIN DEEP
Winter Workouts
Botox & Fillers: Fit for Your Face?
30 REAL LIFE
48 GO & DO
A Conversation with Beverly Helton
Calendar of Events
PINK YOUR
RIDE JOIN OUR FIGHT
y JOYTOLIFE.ORG
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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
h Pull ‘em on, get smiling and get moving.
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BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY IMAGES COURTESY OF REP ACTIVE / SYDNEY BORDEN
p
ap y Dr. Ruth Penton Polson is combining her art and a belief in the benefits of an active lifestyle in her Birmingham-based fitness wear company REP ACTIVE Art, a company committed to motivating, uplifting and inspiring women. Here, she shares REP ACTIVE Art’s story.
PANTS
eyecatching DETAIL “The leggings’ fun colors and bold patterns are energetic and vibrant. My favorite two legging patterns, the Frances and the Elizabeth, come from a painting that’s in my daughter’s playroom. The colors exude joy! The hues and patterns also detract from minor imperfections. Plus, they blend a super soft fabric with serious compression that sucks everything in.” - Dr. Ruth Penton Polson, founder of REP ACTIVE Art
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Q:
What motivated you to create REP ACTIVE Art? My passion for fitness and my love of art along with a desire to encourage women to be bold and artfully expressive in their fashion are the foundation of REP ACTIVE Art. It really began with a pair of leggings I owned by Mara Hoffman, one of my inspirations in fashion design. I love her use of vibrant colors and bold patterns. After purchasing a pair of her leggings, I felt fueled and empowered every time I wore them. Their colors made me happy, and jokingly I called them my “happy pants.” I could have worn those leggings every day, and I definitely had to step outside of my comfort zone to wear them! They were wild. But every time I did they just made my day! That made me wonder, “Why don’t I just design my own ‘happy pants?’” I had already created wallpaper using my art, and my dental assistant insisted that I ought to put it on yoga pants. I laughed at first, but her comment, along with my thoughts about “happy pants” led to me try it.
The intent is to inspire other women to step outside of the black legging box (not that there is anything wrong with black leggings) and outside of their comfort zone to be different and be bold. I hope along with that comes the empowerment to be fit and lead a lifestyle of health and wellness.
PINK YOUR
RIDE JOIN OUR FIGHT
y
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JOYTOLIFE.ORG
When did you start REP ACTIVE Art? In November 2016 with our first trunk shows at Club Pilates Cahaba Heights and Lilla in Mountain Brook Village. Faith Gardner, who owned Lilla along with another local boutique, was a driving force of encouragement when I embarked into this unknown territory of textiles and fashion. I am a dentist and facial aesthetic injector by profession.
When did you first get interested in art? At an early age. My family has a beautiful collection of Kelly Fitzpatrick pieces, and they fascinated me. I would stare at them for lengths of time from all angles and would study each stroke. I took my first oil painting class at age 10. I later took courses in ceramics and photography in
art
college at Huntingdon, but my mission to earn a degree in dental medicine trumped
It starts with .
my passion for art. I actually wanted to study art abroad in Italy the summer before dental school, but my mom denied my request in fear I’d not return and never would make it to dental school. After
How do you get your art
dental school, I started taking oil painting
onto the fabric/clothing pieces?
classes again and did some workshops on the weekends.
I have digital patterns that I use for each piece. I take images of my art and position them on the pattern, creating the design. Each design is named after a female who has inspired me so that
When did you first get interested in staying active to maintain your health?
through them that woman’s uniqueness can be highlighted. Each design is a depiction of one of my original pieces of my art, whether an oil on canvas, acrylic on panel or watercolor on paper.
I’ve always enjoyed fitness and healthy eating, but dental school increased my
Do you still paint?
awareness of the overall benefits, and I started to get more serious about it. As a dentist, I encourage healthy eating habits
Absolutely. I’m currently working on a fun project for SAKS.
and fitness to improve overall and oral
Painting is like breathing for me: It’s a necessity. I have always
health for patients. Education and under-
had to have a creative outlet. In dental school when I didn’t have
standing why it is important is the key.
extra funds, I’d paint on cardboard just for that creative release.
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What does the “REP” in the brand’s name stand for? REP is a combination of my initials “RP” and my daughter Emma’s initial “E.” REP also is short for rep-
Be Bold. Go for it!
etition. In fitness and life in general, it’s through repetition that you gain the results you are looking for.
See how God shows up and watch what happens. You don’t have to know the next step, just take one. And use your gifts to serve others. That’s where joy is found.
family first “It was important for me to incorporate Emma into the company name because another reason I created this company was to be able to generate an income while being a mom. As a dentist, I was forced to be in an office 8 to 5. That makes it difficult to be a mom. I wanted to be able to savor time with my daughter and not look back and wish I had spent more time with her. I also wanted to create something I could pass along to her, something meaningful that we could share together. Also, we offer REPresentative positions to rep the brand. I thought the business model could allow other women to host their own trunk shows and to be a rep so they could generate a side source of income, allowing them independence and an ability to stay at home and be a mom.”
Just do it. You don’t always need fancy equipment or a studio or office to chase your business or creative dreams. “I created all of my designs from my cell phone while on the go: in carpool line, at Emma’s soccer practice or violin lessons.” - Dr. Ruth
Penton Polson, founder of REP ACTIVE Art
What’s in a Name? One of REP Active Art’s legging styles is named “Teri,” after Joy to Life Foundation founder Joy Blondheim’s cousin Teri Aronov (a fact we didn’t even know until we were almost done with this article!). Teri’s daughter sent Ruth Penton the following description of her mom: “She is small, but she is mighty. She is quiet and she is full of grace. She is gentle, but she is fierce. She is brave and she is certainly the most courageous person I know. She’s had dystonia, a neurological disorder characterized by muscle contractions and repetitive movements, for over 30 years. She fights every day to be her best, even when she doesn’t feel her best.”
Order REP ACTIVE Art leggings at repactiveart.com
Photography by Big Dreamz Creative
What advice would you give other women balancing work and life and looking for their purpose?
What’s In A Name? One of REP Active Art’s legging styles is named “Teri,” after Joy to Life Foundation founder Joy Blondheim’s cousin Teri Aronov (a fact we didn’t even know until we were almost done with this article!). Teri’s daughter sent the following description of her mom to encourage Ruth Penton to bestow the honor of a legging name on Teri: “She is small, but she is mighty. She is quiet and she is full of grace. She is gentle, but she is fierce. She is brave and she is certainly the most courageous person I know. Most importantly to me though, she is my Mom. She is a truly remarkable woman. She’s had dystonia, a neurological disorder characterized by muscle contractions and repetitive movements, for over 30 years. Mom has ups and downs with her health in any given year, but she fights every day to be her best, even when she doesn’t feel her best. She is wise, caring, and kind. She is stronger than me. She is my teacher, my best friend, my heart. She is my Mom.”
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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
the dish
This flavor is one you should add to your menu long after the holidays have come and gone.
EAT UP! Try a few recipes, all shining the its sweet, exhilarating, tingly taste.
FUL R E INT
Mint & Berry Smoothie
smoothie that uses frozen berries and embellishes their brightness with a pop of mint.
PEPPER
1 cup frozen mixed berries 1 cup Greek yogurt splash of milk, almond milk (or try coconut water!)
The aroma and flavor of peppermint screams “holidays.” But thanks to multiple health benefits,
1/3 cup fresh mint leaves
it’s an ingredient you ought to be ingesting all
1 tablespoon lime juice
year long. Peppermint-flavored foods get their
2 teaspoons raw honey
punch from peppermint oil (or extracts made
Blend until smooth and enjoy!
from peppermint oil), which are usually derived from the peppermint plant, a hybrid of the spearmint and water mint species. This versatile substance adds a burst of invigorating cool to everything from sweet treats to tea, but it can do a lot more than that too. Eating peppermint has been proven to: Reduce nausea and soothe upset stomachs Reduce inflammation in the gut Perk you up and provide a natural energy boost Reduce cravings and curb appetite Calm anxiety
Y A T S H S E FR
Peppermint oil is an easy way to add both the taste and benefits of peppermint to multiple dishes, but fresh mint leaves (any of the mint species, including spearmint), offer many of the same effects. They’re great minced and added to fruit salads or left whole and steeped in either iced or hot tea. 16
TRY THIS!
Summon summer with this fruity
M
P OW
spotlight on peppermint and highlighting
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Beyond Your Belly Mint-Chocolate Energy Bites
TRY THIS!
Peppermint oil is for way more than eating. Check out some of its many benefits and uses.
PEPPERMINT OIL CAN:
These will give you the boost you need to keep moving despite winter’s chill.
Relieve muscle soreness when applied topically
2 cups oats 1/2 cup peanut butter
Open sinuses and nasal
2 tablespoons flax seed
passages when inhaled
3 tablespoons cocoa power
Relieve stress
3 tablespoons raw honey 1 to 2 tablespoons warm water
Freshen breath with
1 teaspoon peppermint extract
its antimicrobial properties
¼ cup mini dark chocolate chips Enhance memory and increase alertness
¼ cup crushed peppermint candy (optional)
when its aroma is inhaled
Mix all ingredients except crushed
Stop the itch from bug bites
peppermint in a large bowl until thoroughly combined. Roll into bite-size balls and then roll in peppermint candy (if desired). Store covered in the fridge.
P.S.
and rashes when applied topically
IT CAN KEEP SQUIRRELS FROM CHEWING ON YOUR HOUSE! Soak a rag with peppermint oil and wipe it over eaves or other wooden parts of your home that are getting gnawed on by your neighborhood varmints.
Photography by Erika Rowe Tracy
TOO MUCH OF A GOOD THING As with anything, you can have too much peppermint. Ingesting large amounts can be harmful. And it can also interact with some medications, so ask your doctor before adding the ingestion or use of peppermint oil to your daily routine.
All the Senses Peppermint’s smell and taste are great, but the simple sight of candy canes, all lined up in their cellophane-wrapped boxes at the grocery store, can bring on a flood of nostalgia and warm, fuzzy holidaythemed thoughts.
FIT FOR KIDS
attitude is everything GROW SOME
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GRATITUDE
Consider this parent’s practical advice on how to raise grateful, giving kids. As a mom of three, there are plenty of “proud mommy” moments. However, my heart absolutely soars when I see my children display kindness or gratitude completely unprompted. The moment they look into a stranger’s eyes and sincerely thank them, or when they want to help someone in need. Let’s be honest, when they simply say something sweet to a sibling, or let the other have their way, my heart is full. These moments are the ones we truly pray for, but through the weeds of parenting—the meltdowns, the angry words, the endless wanting (ok, often demanding) of material items—it’s hard to know if the concepts of gratitude and kindness get through.
I have heard that gratitude is made up of two things: a positive attitude and the ability to cope.
FEEL LIKE YOU’RE IN THE WEEDS? Look around. There is beauty ever y where.
When we find ourselves in a less than ideal situation, it’s best to look for the positives. This is an amazing exercise you can practice daily with your kids and with yourself. Soccer game rained out? What an awesome excuse to stay inside and finish that book! Milk spilled on the floor? Now your kitchen floor is clean, so mark it off your list. The ability to deal with adversity, pain or suffering is fortitude. It is difficult to not shield our kids from all hard times. However, living through challenges allows them to recognize how much they have to be thankful for and provides the most growth in wisdom and character.
BY MELISSA TATE WITT
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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
So how do we teach these things?
These are big concepts for little minds, but we can instill daily practices to push them in the right direction:
Think positive. Praising when kids make a good call goes a long way too.
Model The Behavior We’ve all heard our kids say things and realized they
Talk About It
learned that phrase from us. If you’re like me, these of-
When your kids do
ten are not my proudest mommy moments. However, if
something unselfish, and
they see you practicing gratitude, they will do it as well.
it is helpful, acknowledge
Tell the manager about your fabulous waiter at lunch,
it. When opportunities to
or help out in the soup kitchen. Trust me, they’ll notice.
be helpful or more gracious slip by, talk about them. Instead of a lecture, ask how they saw the situation. What were they feeling? How could it have gone differently?
Give It Away If your child receives allowance, set aside a percentage for giving to a cause they care about. Once a month, do a toy inventory and see what toys could be passed on. Find opportuni-
Teach Less Is More
ties to volunteer their time
It’s easy to want our children to have the things
at environmental clean-
they want most. However, by limiting what they
ups or a visit to an animal
get, we actually give them something much more
shelter.
important. If your child really wants something, perhaps have them save and pitch in on the cost.
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Understand The Meaning Of Gifts Count The Roses . . . And The Thorns
Every parent’s biggest fear is the response after a child opens an undesirable gift.
You’ve heard to count your blessings, and
I remember my oldest daughter opening up one of her fifth birthday gifts to find it was a game she already had. She looked at me with a smug smile, then excitedly looked at her friend and squealed, “ I love this game!”
this is an awesome exercise. But I recently heard to count the roses and the thorns. Have your child name a blessing (the rose) and a difficult thing (the thorn) each day. I like this because it helps them learn to validate both the happy and the challenging sides of life, while also opening a discussion about ways to deal with or
Talk with your child about the true
overcome the thorns.
meaning of gifts. Her friend picked that out because she knew my daughter would love it.
Lookin’ Good. Keeping an attitude of gratitude can change a lot.
Say Thank You This seems obvious, but the basic habit of acknowledging the things others do
Shift Perspective
for us can go a long way in instilling an
This is perhaps my favorite tip and a
attitude of gratitude. Kids should verbally
game-changer. Shift perspective. Instead
say thank you whenever someone does
of saying “I have to,” start saying “I get to.”
something for them. Writing actual thank
For kids, “I get to go to school today,” or “I
you notes (or drawing thank you pictures)
get to play with my little brother.” It really
for gifts also helps them process and learn
is amazing how that one little word truly
gratitude. Go the extra mile once a month
makes you stop and think,
“I am so lucky.”
and have your child create a thank you card for someone who’s not expecting it, maybe the bus driver or your mailman.
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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
T IO N F OR WA R D MO
KEEP MOVING Don’t let grey skies or low temps slow down your activity level or fitness goal progress.
NO ES! US EXC
HEART-RACING REMEDIES
Even in the South, winter weather can undo your outdoor exercise routine. But you can stay active (and do it right at home) with these easy indoor exercises.
READY. SET. GO. TUCK JUMP: Stand with feet shoulder-width
We’re lucky enough to enjoy outdoor exercise
apart and knees slightly bent. Jump as high as you
almost all year round, but Southern winters
can, tucking your knees to your chest. Land with your
are subject to cold and rain, and shortened
knees slightly bent and quickly jump again.
days mean it’s dark before and after the workday. When dark, chilly winter days keep you
PUSH-UP: Keep your legs and back straight and
sheltered indoors, bodyweight exercises can
line your hands up with your shoulders. Use your
help you continue to tone and strengthen your
arms to lower and raise your body, making sure your
body without weights and equipment.
neck, back and legs remain straight.
SQUAT: Stand with your feet shoulder-width apart. Bending at your knees and waist, lower your body as if you are going to sit on a chair, keeping your knees
WAKE UP YOUR MUSCLES!
aligned with your feet. When your thighs are parallel with the floor, stand back up again while pushing through at the heel. Down and up is one rep.
Try the following exercises in a 30-minute, high intensity circuit.
MOUNTAIN CLIMBERS: Begin in a push-up position. Bend your right knee and bring it forward to
Do 12-15 reps of each exercise in three
your chest. Straighten it again and do the same with
rounds, resting up to 30 seconds in between.
your left knee to complete one rep.
With each exercise, make sure you keep your core muscles tight and engaged.
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BY CHEYENNE MARTIN
ROCKIN' ARMS WITHOUT WEIGHTS?
SUPER-TONING TACTICS HOLD IT TIGHT. TRICEP DIP: Sit down in front of a step. Place your feet flat on the floor and reach back to place your hands on the step. Bend your arms at a 90-degree angle and straighten them, raising your bottom off the floor, pushing through the heel. For some added
Gonna exercise outside no matter what? Follow this advice to do it right.
resistance, try straightening your left leg and extend-
Winters are no match for the intrepid fitness enthu-
ing your right arm while you’re off the floor. Up and
siast, but runners and cyclists should be adequately
down is one rep.
prepared when outdoors. Montgomery-area athlete
SHOULDER BRIDGE: Lay on your back, with
Shelley Bailey trains all year for marathons and triathlons and recently completed her first Ironman. She
arms to your sides, knees up and feet hip-width apart.
recommended individuals follow the “20-degree” rule.
Keeping your core engaged, raise your back and hips
For example, if the temperature is 40 degrees, dress for
off the floor as far as you can. Only your head, shoul-
60 degrees. “What that does is keeps you from over-
ders, arms and feet should remain on the floor. Slowly
heating,” Bailey said. “You can get cold if you sweat too
lift one leg upwards, keeping your core muscles tight,
much.”
and lower back to starting position. Do the same for the other leg to complete one rep.
Bailey also noted that trail running can feel up to 10-de-
BICYCLE: Lay on your back with knees bent and
and the absence of heat from roads and buildings. Wear
grees colder than road running thanks to canopy cover
hands behind your head. Bring your left elbow in to
layers that you can shed if you get too warm, and dress
meet your right knee at the chest. Lower and repeat
in material that wicks away sweat.
with the other elbow and knee to complete one rep.
SUPERMAN: Lay on your stomach with arms
Play it safe when it’s dark outside and use headlamps, bike lamps and bright, reflective clothing. Also, con-
extended in front of you. Raise both legs and both
sider downloading an app such as ROAD iD that lets
arms off the floor at the same time, like you’re flying,
friends and family track your location.
to form a small curve in your body. Keep your core as still as possible and hold briefly before returning to the floor and completing one rep.
I'M COOL! BE BACK IN A BIT.
TO THE NEXT LEVEL: For added intensity either before or after your circuit, add a jump rope. Jumping rope for 10 minutes can equal running an 8-minute mile. Even if you jump at a moderate rate, you can still burn 100-160 calories in the same amount of time. Jumping rope engages your whole body, making it the perfect combination of cardio and core.
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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
DON'T FORGET TO LAYER.
HOME
sweet HOME
BE INSPIRED.
It all begins in Moulton, Alabama, a small town in the nor thwest corner of the state.
THE
FIBER FA MILY
OF
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A family owned and operated Alabama company is creating 100-percent homegrown cotton sheets with the look and feel of yesterday and making them in a way that ensures they’ll hold up for many, many tomorrows.
A plain white sheet. What could be
Finally, it’s sent back to Moulton to be cut and
simpler or more straightforward to make? Ask
sewn into the final product. Creating this all-
Anna Brakefield, co-owner of Red Land Cotton,
American-made supply chain was a priority for
and she’ll quickly tell you, a lot of things. “It’s
the company from the start, but proved to be
more complicated that people think,” she said.
the hardest part. “It was difficult, but we made it
Especially when you make that sheet the Red
happen, and we’re proud of it,” Anna said.
Land Cotton way. She’s also proud to be back home, working It all begins in Moulton, Alabama, a small town
with her family. Her dad, Mark Yeager, grew
in the northwest corner of the state, where the
up farming and has been growing cotton
family owned and operated business is based.
on the same land since 1983. He began with
In the fall, cloud-like puffs of cotton in the fields
a few hundred acres but now has 4,400. In
of the also family owned Red Land Farms are
2016, frustrated with falling cotton prices, he
picked and then ginned onsite. Ginning removes
approached Anna about starting a business that
dirt and leaves and plucks the cotton fiber (called
would allow him to be the end user of at least
lint) away from the seeds inside it. “My dad’s a
some of his crop. “He knew he was growing this
control freak about his cotton, so he built his own
really beautiful cotton, and he wanted to create
gin to stay involved in that part of the process,”
a line of sheets made from it,” Anna said. “I was
Anna said. Keeping a close eye on things includes
unhappy with my job in Nashville, so I said, let’s
an extra step that enhances quality: running the
do it.” With her graphic design and marketing
fiber through the gin’s lint cleaner twice.
background, she had the knowledge he needed to brand the business and get the word out.
Next, the ginned cotton is sent to Graniteville,
She’s also using her artistic ability in a new way,
South Carolina, to be spun into yarn. Then in
designing the patterns and looks of the entire
Gaffney, South Carolina, that yarn is woven into
Red Land Cotton product line, which has now
actual fabric, at this stage called “gray goods.”
broadened far beyond sheets to include duvets,
This fabric travels to a finishing plant (either in
quilts, pillow shams and towels. “It’s been fun to
Flintstone, Georgia, or Sumter, South Carolina)
push myself in that way,” Anna said. And while
where it’s washed to make it soft and bleached to
she and her dad are the only family members
make it white and/or dyed to a color, and maybe
officially working for Red Land Cotton, Anna’s
printed with a pattern.
two brothers work at Red Land Farms.
BY JENNIFER STEWART KORNEGAY IMAGES COURTESY OF RED LAND COTTON/ EMILY DORIO
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A PUBLICATION OF THE JOY TO LIFE FOUNDATION
from
field fabric to
From fields in Alabama to spinning and weaving in South Carolina, Red Land Cotton has an American-made supply chain
The area’s ruddy red dirt
is the
enough to be handed down. To find the right
inspiration behind the names of both the farm
formula for heirloom-quality linens, Anna and
and the company, and it’s also the foundation of
her dad looked to the past. “When we started
the farm’s commitment to sustainable farming
imagining what we’d want our sheets to be like,
practices. “It’s not really the easiest stuff to
my dad got all nostalgic remembering the way
work with,” Anna said. “It’s not like the rich soil
sheets at his grandmother’s house felt,” she
in the Black Belt. We have to do the right things
said. To recreate that, they set out on a search
to enhance it.” To help the land hold nutrients,
for vintage sheets to use as a model. They
they plant cover crops like clover and radishes
finally found and bought an entire container of
in winter. And the farm doesn’t irrigate. “All
old bed linens from the 1920s. “We took them
our fields are completely rain fed,” Anna said.
and slept on them ourselves and knew pretty
“We do that to conserve water.”
fast that was what we wanted, that feel,” Anna said. She describes it as super soft but heavier
This same sustainability mindset extends
than other sheets, so substantial and sturdy.
to Red Land Cotton’s production methods,
“They are meant to last; that’s the goal,” she
devised to yield products that will last long
said.
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“ W h e n w e s t a r t e d i m a g i n i n g w h a t w e ’d w a n t o u r sheets to be like, my dad got all nostalgic remembering t h e w a y s h e e t s a t h i s g r a n d m o t h e r ’s h o u s e f e l t . ”
Today, that heritage texture — even more than the look — informs every piece that Red Land Cotton makes. It’s why they spin thicker yarn than most sheet manufacturers and do an open weave in their fabric. “That gives us a lower thread-count, only 120, and that turns some people off, but thread-count is really not the total indicator of quality,” Anna said. “That thicker yarn is what makes it soft, and our weave makes it breathable.” When Red Land Cotton shipped its first sheet, customers could choose from two basic styles. Now, a visit to Red Land Cotton’s website reveals a pace of growth that rivals the burst of a bright white cotton boll from its brown pod. 27
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“We’ve got quilts and towels and are becoming a full home linen business,” Anna said. While sales keep ticking up, Red Land Cotton has the resources needed for continued expansion, currently using about 500 of the several thousand cotton bales the farm produces each year. “We hope we’ll soon be using it all for Red Land Cotton’s products,” Anna said. She also hopes that those who buy Red Land products feel the difference, and not just on their skin; she hopes they sense everything that went into creating it, the care from field to fabric that’s woven into every inch. She’s open about the obstacles — “Manufacturing the way we want to do it is a challenge,” she stressed — but also the rewards. “I love what I do,” said Anna. “I love that we are using this cotton from this land that is part of my family’s story and that we’re putting it into a tactile form that shares that story with others.”
“ I love that we are using this cotton from this land that is par t of my
GET COV ER ED UP IN COMFORT
Order Red Land Cotton products on its website, redlandcotton.com . Or stop in to visit and shop at its retail store on the square in downtown Moulton.
f a m i l y ’s s t o r y a n d t h a t w e ’r e p u t t i n g i t into a tactile form that shares that stor y w ith others .”
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FIRST-HAND ADVICE AND INSIGHT TO HELP CAREGIVERS COPE
Photography by Big Dreamz Creative
real
A DISCUSSION WITH
BEVERLY HELTON In 2008, a very healthy and active 48-year-old Beverly Helton, who up until the moment she detected a lump in her breast felt “just fine,” was diagnosed with stage III invasive breast cancer. She beat it. Then, in 2017, she was diagnosed with stage III ovarian cancer, and she’s beating that too. Through both journeys, she relied on her faith, friends and family for the strength to fight. Now, she shares her experiences to help others do the same.
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST THOUGHT WHEN YOU HEARD YOUR BREAST CANCER DIAGNOSIS? Not surprised. I knew this lump in my breast was much different from my other benign lumpectomies over the past 25 years. I didn’t share my diagnosis with anyone for several weeks. I needed to accept, understand and comprehend the impact this cancer diagnosis would make in my life, to my body and in my future. Alone one night, I finally said out loud the words “I have breast cancer,” repeating it over and over, with tears streaming down my face. From that point forward, my goal was to fight and fight hard, trust in God and follow the advice of my medical team. Breast cancer was not going to defeat me.
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HEAR FROM SURVIVORS, COMPANIONS AND CAREGIVERS IN OUR
Real Life
WHAT WAS YOUR FIRST THOUGHT WHEN YOU GOT YOUR OVARIAN CANCER DIAGNOSIS? Shocked! I wasn’t experiencing any of the typical ovarian cancer symptoms. It really was an “accidental blessing” that during a check-up related to my breast cancer Dr. Stephen Davidson ordered a CT scan to look at my ovaries because I mentioned experiencing a sharp pain near my naval. The scan showed an abnormality, and after additional testing, things moved quickly. With ovarian cancer came another medical team led by Dr. Warner Huh, gynecological oncologist and surgeon at UAB. I had an incisional hysterectomy. I knew ovarian cancer was a reality, but I was not prepared to learn that it was necessary to remove part of my colon during surgery. Neither was I prepared for a stage III ovarian cancer diagnosis. I mentioned my diagnosis was an accidental blessing; a few more months could have allowed my cancer to become more advanced.
IS THERE ANYTHING THAT STANDS OUT AS REALLY SPECIAL? Prayers, greeting cards, texts, emails, voice messages and hugs. Even on the worst days, these acts of kindness and support made me smile and helped me re-focus and re-energize and fight harder! My niece laminated business card size inspirational Bible verses, which I placed in different locations in my house as reminders of God’s love. I still keep these with me, in my car, in my purse, at work and on my bedside table. A group of co-workers sent me motivational cards every day for a month, to be placed in the glass vase that arrived with the first card. Members of my family spent more than three weeks every month for six months with me coordinating transportation to medical appointments, even the numerous unplanned ones, and took responsibility of my household and many personal responsibilities. My core group of friends surrounded me with their love, prayers, hugs and helped in other ways that are too numerous to mention.
SECTION.
WHAT DID YOU DO FOR YOURSELF THAT HELPED YOU COPE? I believe that faith in God and prayer make a difference and provided me with the necessary inner strength. I believe that a positive attitude and a fighting spirit are almost as important as medical treatments. I could not change my diagnosis, but I was in control of my attitude, acceptance and determination to complete the proposed chemotherapy treatment plan. I also took it one day at a time. I had the ability to focus my energy on the present day. Worrying about what tomorrow would hold, how I would feel or dreading a chemo treatment was not in my best interest; it was a waste of energy. Exercising has been critical to my recovery. I needed to “feel” better about my body and help accelerate my healing process. Immediately following my breast cancer treatment, I joined Pilates and yoga classes. After chemo for both cancers I walked more frequently, slowly working my way up to a three-mile run. I was also able to get back on my road bike. Exercise helped me regain my physical strength, but also provided the mental boost and challenges I needed to offset the aftereffects of chemo.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE OTHERS ON HOW TO HELP THEIR LOVED ONE GOING THROUGH CANCER TREATMENT? Listen and offer support. Identify specific ways you can help. Sometimes, just being there or a hug is all that is needed with no conversation. Some patients like to talk about their diagnosis; others don’t.
“ Sometimes, just being there or a hug is all that is needed with no conversation. Some patients like to talk about their diagnosis; others don’t. ” - B E V E R L Y H E L T O N 31
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HOW TO MAINTAIN AND IMPROVE YOUR MEMORY
DON’T FORGET
IS IT SCIENCE OR LIFESTYLE THAT KEEPS YOUR MIND MOVING IN THE RIGHT DIRECTION?
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There are things you can do now to cope with and improve your memory.
Young and middle-age adults often attribute forgetfulness to mom brain, pregnancy brain, fatigue or pressure from deadlines and projects. And they’re not wrong. The exact science behind memory loss is varied, but it’s generally agreed that an increase or decrease of hormones, stress and exhaustion influence the way the brain functions. Sometimes memory problems crop up as a side effect to depression, anxiety or medication. In those cases, a doctor can help remedy or mitigate such problems with adjustments to medication and coping skills.
It happens at the most inconvenient time: You meet a new neighbor and can’t remember his name long enough to introduce him to your spouse; your husband calls while you’re making supper and as soon as you hang up the phone, you forget what he asked you to do; or your granddaughter reminds you about her class program at school and then wonders why she didn’t see you in the gym. Were you sitting in the back?
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As we age, it seems we often trade one label for another. Mom brain becomes a senior moment with misplaced keys and blank stares as we try to remember what we were looking for. But lapses in memory after the age of 50 don’t mean you’re on the path to dementia or Alzheimer’s. In fact, while scientists are still studying how the brain stores and accesses information like memories, they do know that Alzheimer’s happens independently from age-related memory loss. Forgetting your child’s name (why did you name them all with the same letter?) is vastly different from forgetting your child’s face.
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In 2013, a team at Columbia University Medical Center discovered that age-related memory loss is caused by a deficiency of a protein in your brain called RbAp48, and that it’s actually reversible in mice. Exactly how that translates to the future of memory function for humans will take some time, but there are things you can do now to cope with and improve your memory.
Sometimes, though, it takes a little bit more than a healthy body and mind to stay ahead of being forgetful. In that case, maybe you’ll want to
As always, it begins with a healthy lifestyle:
try these tips and tricks to staying mindful and on task.
Aerobic exercise
at least three times a week increases blood flow to your brain, which in turn improves brain function.
Evaluate your habits. Habits and routines help keep your life and mind on track without a lot of effort.
Exercise also helps you sleep better,
and a well-rested brain is more likely to hold onto and process information.
GOOD NEWS: Eating properly
can further support brain health. Consider incorporating these brain-friendly foods into your everyday diet: avocados, extra virgin olive oil, bone broth, broccoli, celery, coconut oil, eggs (specifically egg yolks) and dark chocolate.
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Your brain loves chocolate. Just be sure that it is minimally processed and at least 70 percent cocoa.
Make a daily to-do list and keep a calendar. Instead of trying to
Set reminders on your phone for important tasks. It’s easy to lose track
remember every daily detail, you only have to remember to write tasks and appointments as they come up. A quick look will help you stay on task. Bonus: Sometimes writing something down makes it easier to remember.
of time and alarms can alert you to everything from lunch to soccer practice.
Learn something new, like dancing, and force your brain to concentrate and assimilate information. You might find that your brain works faster to recall and process information in other areas of your life.
Use post-it notes for quick reminders like taking the trash to the curb or grabbing your lunch from the fridge before work. Put the notes where they are sure to be seen. The bathroom mirror, coffee maker and front door are great options.
Put easy-to-lose items in one spot.
Eliminate distractions. Multi-tasking is not always your friend. Focus entirely on the conversation, book or project, and it will be easier to recall when you’re finished.
Declutter, declutter, declutter. Alarms and to-do lists can help declutter your brain, but clean counters and tidy living and workspaces are just as important. Getting rid of something you don’t need or don’t use means it no longer takes up real estate in your head, relieving stress and freeing space for something else.
Keep a journal. Sometimes it’s easier to remember people you met and things you did when you write it down. And even if you do forget, a quick glance at what you’ve written will bring it all back.
If you are regularly misplacing your keys, wallet, phone or sunglasses, find a permanent home for them. Put them in the same spot each day. Bonus: Working on creating that habit is a good workout for your brain.
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on the bright side! You can supplement a well-rounded diet with vitamin supplements such as vitamins C, E, B6, B12 and folate.
goods
great
PRODUCTS, PLACES & THINGS WE LOVE
A GREAT G I F T S T O P. Prevail Union has a handful of unique items sure to be a treat for others in any season. A few faves: Jonathon Kohn’s city scene framed Polaroids or the shop’s “Together We Prevail” gear.
WHETHER YOUR ORDER RUNS HOT OR COLD, YOU’LL FEEL THE PRIDE OF A COMMUNITY UNITED AND A COOL VIBE INSIDE THE WALLS OF THE HISTORIC KRESS BUILDING. PINK YOUR
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FAMILY TREATS In 2009, Robert Armstrong decided he wanted to contribute to good news coming out of Selma. He’d also been pondering ways to start a business. The two thoughts blended in the idea to start G Momma’s Cookies, his company based on his grandmother’s delicious cookie recipes. With varieties like “Butta”scotch Oatmeal, Chocolate Chip with Pecan and the newest flavor, Sea Salt Caramel, all made with natural ingredients (including real “butta”) and all baked into bite-sized form, G Momma’s has been successful from the start, a fact that makes Armstrong almost as happy as eating the cookies. “It’s honestly easy to sell a product that you can stand behind,” he said. “It’s rewarding to start something and see the fruit of the hard work coming to pass.” Grab a bag
WANNA WARM UP?
(or two) at Publix, Winn Dixie, Walmart and Piggly Wiggly locations around Alabama or order online at
Go grab a hot cup of joe from Prevail Union in
gmommas.com. You can also find the treats at
Montgomery, and you’ll be warmed by both the
specialty stores throughout the state.
strong, rich liquid and the sentiment that’s in every dark drop. Megan and Wade Preston start-
gmommas.com
ed Prevail Coffee Roasters, their craft coffeeroasting and import company with its companion coffee shop in Auburn, in 2015. In 2016, the biz expanded with a second coffee shop location, Prevail Union, in Montgomery. In 2018, Prevail Union moved into the newly revitalized Kress on Dexter building downtown. The atmosphere is sleek and chic, an energizing contrast to the storied history surrounding it. But that’s not what makes it unique. The company’s commitment to support farmers around the globe is: Prevail’s coffees are made with beans sourced from farms and co-ops that adhere to fair-trade and ethical labor practices. It puts even more meaning behind the phrase painted big and bold on one of Prevail Union’s exposed brick walls: “Together We Prevail.”
Attention! A new flavor to adore. Can it beat Buttascotch Oatmeal?
Photography by Jonathon Kohn / jonathonkohn.com
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SMOOTH & SOFT At 1818 Farm, the clock has been turned back to simpler times. Using traditional and sustainable methods, owner Natasha McCrary and her family raise Babydoll Southdown sheep, hens and flowers on their three-acre farm in historic (and tiny!) Mooresville, Alabama, where they also offer classes on gardening, food preservation, knitting and more, and hand-make a bevy of bath and beauty products. A best seller is 1818 Farm’s hydrating Shea Cream. A rich, silky blend of shea butter, coconut oil and essential oils, it’s made in small batches and comes in seven heady scents, like Lavender, Fresh Melon, Citrus and Green Pastures. 1818farms.com
Did you hear? Seven heady scents. Take your pick.
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HANDMADE HEART A.K. Hall loves the sentimental side of jewelry — the memory and feeling attached to each piece — and puts her creativity to work designing and hand-forming earrings and necklaces that hold both simple elegance and emotion in her Birmingham studio. Her petite pieces have few flourishes, instead letting the materials that inspire her, most often 14k gold or sterling silver and sometimes, gems like opals and diamonds, speak for themselves. “I can just look at a stone, and the whole design comes together,” she said. “When I am working with only metal, I am inspired by geometric shapes and adding an organic element into that design. I like when the maker’s hand adds some ‘imperfections’ to a piece.” Each piece is different, thanks to her interesting stone selections, and she loves to do custom work and to involve the end user. “It is a really neat thing for the customer to be a part of the design process and the stone selection,” she said. Find her jewelry or contact her for a custom order at madebyak.com. madebyak.com
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PINK CAN. CAN SAVE. HELP US TRASH BREAST CANCER. IF YOU LIVE IN MONTGOMERY, PRATTVILLE, OPELIKA OR GREENVILLE BUY A PINK CAN TODAY: WITH EVERY PURCHASE OF THE PINK JOY TO LIFE TRASH CAN, ALABAMIANS HELP SUPPORT FUNDING OF MAMMOGRAMS AND OTHER BREAST CANCER SCREENINGS FOR UNDERSERVED WOMEN IN EVERY COUNTY IN ALABAMA. DONATE NOW @ JOYTOLIFE.ORG
DO YOU WANT PINK TRASH CANS IN YOUR COUNTY? EMAIL INFO@JOYTOLIFE.ORG 40
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in
Balance
We all know WATER IS ESSENTIAL for life, but do you know EXACTLY HOW IT BENEFITS your body and the best ways to get your PROPER DAILY DOSE?
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WATER IS A BASIC BUILDING BLOCK OF WELLNESS. Every single cell in your body depends on water to do its job. Without enough water, these cells just don’t function correctly, leading to a host of negative effects on your overall health, from mild to more serious. On the flipside, staying hydrated brings with it a long list of health benefits:
Increased Alertness.
Balanced Weight.
Being hydrated helps you beat fatigue by letting your body and all its systems run at full potential. It helps you sleep better and have access to more energy throughout the day.
Dehydration stops our cells from creating energy and can lead our brains to tell us that we need more fuel, often pushing us to eat instead of drink.
Fewer Infections. Drinking the right amount of water ensures you flush out harmful bacteria, leading to a lower risk of bladder or kidney infections.
Lower Blood Pressure. Blood in a fully hydrated body is able to move through arteries and veins more freely, leading to lower blood pressure and warding off cardiovascular issues.
Glowing Skin. Staying hydrated is one of the best things you can do for your skin. By helping our dermis rid itself of toxins and pollutants, drinking plenty of water reduces acne and other problems like psoriasis and will improve elasticity, keeping wrinkles and other signs of aging at bay.
Improved Digestion. Proper amounts of water mean matter can move faster through your digestive track, reducing constipation and gas. It also helps your digestive system purge toxins and waste, lessening acid reflux, bloating and even issues with ulcers and symptoms of IBS.
Better Joint Health. Our cartilage contains a lot of water, so when we don’t replenish our intake, this padding can be punished, leaving us with stiffness and making us more prone to joint injuries.
Slower Aging. Drinking enough water will help you look, feel and act younger by reducing the stress that dehydration can place on your bodily systems.
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So How Much is Enough? The standard water consumption is eight 8-ounce glasses of water each day. But every body is different, and some folks need more than that. When you exercise heavily or sweat excessively due to heat or other exertion, you’ll need more to replace the fluids you’re losing. People with certain health conditions (like kidney and bladder issues) also need more water, as do women who are pregnant or breastfeeding. And the older we get, the more likely we are to let ourselves get dehydrated. Aging brains don’t always send our bodies the “I’m thirsty” signal.
Your Tummy Rumbling?
PURE &NATURAL Your body gets water from any liquid you ingest and also pulls water from foods you eat like fruits and veggies. But it’s best to get most of your needed water intake by drinking plain ole water.
Drink 6 to 8 ounces of water before grabbing a snack. Sometimes, our body confuses hunger and thirst.
DRINK UP You may think dehydration is a dire situation, one characterized by sunken skin, cracked lips and a dryas-a-dessert mouth. But the truth is, many of us operate in a continual state of mild dehydration without even knowing it. In fact, when you feel thirsty, you’re already in the beginning stages of dehydration.
HELP YOURSELF GET IN THE HABIT: Keep a bottle of water with you all the time. Sip on it throughout the day, even when you are not thirsty. If you need to, set a reminder on your phone or watch to drink at least a few ounces at the top of every hour.
WATCH FOR THESE OTHER SIGNS: DARK URINE DRY MOUTH
Feel free to add some chopped fruit to your water, like lime slices, a few cubes of watermelon and even some fresh mint to give it a little flavor.
SLEEPINESS OR FATIGUE HEADACHE DIZZINESS OR LIGHTHEADEDNESS
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rinkles.
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Botox &Fillers: Fit for Your Face?
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You look in the mirror and can’t help but focus on the wrinkles and thinning skin around your face. Perhaps you even feel the contour of your face has changed from when you were younger. You start to consider Botox or dermal fillers. But, what’s the difference and which one is right for you?
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BY MELISSA TATE WITT
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BOTOX
/ Last on average 3-4 months.
WHAT IS IT? Botox® is a purified form of the botulinum toxin that is obtained from bacteria. Deadly in large amounts, theraputic amounts of botulinum are used to treat many medical conditions such as muscle spasms, overactive bladders, excessive sweating and migraines. Of course, the most well known treatment is for reducing the appearance of wrinkles and fine lines on the face.
How does it work?
Botox works on wrinkles caused by muscle movement, such as the vertical lines between the eyebrows. Botox can also be used on “crow’s feet” around the eyes, caused by smiling, or the horizontal lines on the forehead caused by frowning. By blocking nerve signals in the muscles where the Botox is injected, those nerve signals are interrupted, temporarily relaxing or paralyzing the muscles. This in turns reduces the appearance of wrinkles.
COST / Most Botox injections cost around $300-400 .
SIDE EFFECTS Since Botox does wear off in time, most side effects are only temporary and the procedure is considered safe. However, it is not advised to have Botox injections performed if you are pregnant or nursing. Some of the known side effects are: temporary drooping of the eyelid or brow
dry mouth
weakness or paralysis of nearby muscles
flu-like symptoms
hives, rashes or itching
nausea
pain, bleeding, bruising, swelling, numbness or redness
trouble swallowing, speaking or breathing
headache
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gallbladder problems blurry vision or vision problems
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As we age, our skin loses fat, collagen and hyaluronic acid, all which offer facial volume and support.
DERMAL FILLERS / Last from six months up to two years.
WHAT ARE THEY? Dermal fillers are injected beneath the surface of the skin to add fullness and volume to aging skin; in other words, plump it up to make it appear younger. The fillers are made up of different substances, depending on the need, although the most common is hyaluronic acid. Some of the more popular ones you may have heard of are Juvederm® and Restylane®.
How do they work?
Fillers are helpful for many troubled areas, including wrinkles around the mouth, thin lips or diminishing cheeks. They also work wonders on areas that may be scarred or in need of some extra volume to aid in smooth skin.
EXPERT ADVICE We asked Dr. Porcia Bradford Love of River Region Dermatology and Laser in Montgomery to share her thoughts on the benefits of Botox and dermal fillers. “As we age, our skin loses fat, collagen and hyaluronic
COST / Derma fillers tend to last a little longer. However, the cost is more expensive ranging from $600 to $900 a pop.
acid, all which offer facial volume and support. In your 30s, you will often begin to see fine lines and wrinkles appear,” she said. “Injectable
SIDE EFFECTS
treatments such as Botox and
Although dermal fillers are also considered safe, they too are not recommended for pregnant or breastfeeding women. You may experience redness, bruising or swelling after treatment. Rare complications include: skin rash and itching allergic reaction undesirable appearance, such as overcorrection of wrinkles skin damage that causes a wound, infection or scarring
ability to feel the filler substance under the skin blindness or other vision problems death of skin cells due to loss of blood flow to the area
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fillers instantly restore the skin’s volume, smooth away deep lines and reduce fine lines and wrinkles — with little to no downtime. If you are looking for minimally invasive treatments to help improve the quality and integrity of your skin, and you aren’t afraid of needles, Botox and fillers are quick and effective solutions.” Find out more at rrdermatologylaser.com.
2019
JAN/FEB/MARCH JOIN US! GET REMINDERS OF THESE AND OTHER GREAT ALABAMA EVENTS IN OUR GO&DO EMAIL NEWSLETTER. SIGN UP TO GET IT AT JOYTOLIFEMAGAZINE.ORG
COOL TEMPS, COOLER EVENTS
FLORABAMA Polar Beer Dip January 1 florabama.com Start the year off with a Brrrrrr! at this annual dip in the Gulf of Mexico, followed by a traditional New Year’s meal in the South, complete with black-eyed peas, cornbread, ham, greens and more!
LAKE MARTIN Russell Forest Run
THE HAVEN, BIRMINGHAM
February 23
BourbonHam January 20
russellforestrun.com
bourbonham.com
With both a 5k and a 10k, this rugged path leads runners over beautiful rolling
Need we say more, really? This annual fundraiser
hills and along lanes of sand, gravel and
benefits the National Multiple Sclerosis Society and
clay. Starting at Russell Crossroads
offers patrons an evening of delicious barbeque,
and traveling through places like Kob’s
bourbon and blues.
Knob and Heaven Hill, this run is sure to please and benefits Alex City schools.
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SAVE THE DATE
SHAKE OFF THE WINTER BLUES AND ENJOY THESE ENCHANTINGLY ENJOYABLE EVENTS THROUGHOUT THE STATE.
HOME SWEET HOME
NEVER BEEN?
CHECK IT OUT
IN 2018 UP NORTH
LAKE GUNTERSVILLE STATE PARK Eagle Awareness Weekends January 25 - February 17
G BENEFIT TIN FE LI TO Y THE JO N FOUNDATIO
alapark.com Enjoy a breathtaking view while you
DOWNTOWN MONTGOMERY
witness the spectacular bald eagles in their annual nesting routines at Lake
Joy to Life’s Walk of Life
Guntersville State Park. Weekends throughout January and February are
April 27
dedicated to the event and are filled
joytolife.org
with speakers, shows and outings. This long-standing tradition is an Alabama
Take steps to help Joy to Life
must-do for any outdoor enthusiast.
continue the fight against breast cancer by taking part in its annual signature fundraiser—the Walk of Life! Participating as a walker or runner does good for the body and the soul! (And the after-party along the riverfront is always a fun time, too!)
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LIVE HERE. GIVE HERE. GET ONRIATTIO.N
REGIS T OW ! IS OPEN N
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Y O U R H E A LT H OUR MISSION
WHAT YOU NEVER THOUGHT
POSSIBLE IS ALL WE THINK
A B O U T.
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