Kit | January + February 2021

Hero’s Haven

MEET THE IDCKIT BEDROOM REFRESH WINNER IN HER AIRY OASIS

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kitindy.com

Gracefully Grombre

THE WISDOM AND JOY OF LETTING GRAY HAIR SHINE

Soul Candy

FIND COMFORT IN OLD SCHOOL CORRESPONDENCE, COOKING AND CRAFTING

I was born and raised right here in Noblesville. I grew up in a home without domestic violence or assault – it wasn’t something I saw, or even heard about. But when I was introduced to Prevail of Central Indiana, I was shocked by the number of individuals who are affected by domestic violence. In 2018 alone, Prevail helped more than 4,000 clients in Hamilton County. (Nearly 80 percent of clients are women and children.) Domestic violence and abuse are hard topics to discuss, so you don’t often hear about them. But at Tom Wood Volkswagen in Noblesville, we’re breaking the taboo and raising awareness for Prevail, an organization that helps families in Hamilton County.

– Mike Bragg, GM of Tom Wood Volkswagen in Noblesville

To help Hamilton County families affected by domestic violence and sexual abuse, you can donate the following items:

Sleek, Sporty, and Responsive.

The ID.4 EV is the most versatile VW midsize SUV to date.

• Individually packaged snacks • Lysol • Hand sanitizer • Disinfecting wipes Drop off items at Tom Wood Volkswagen in Noblesville, 14701 Tom Wood Way.

Care • Committment • Convenience Tom Wood Volkswagen Noblesville

14701 Tom Wood Way Noblesville, IN 46060 317.853.4552

TomWoodVolkswagenNoblesville.com

Tom Wood Volkswagen Noblesville E. 146th Street

First Edition Sold Out in 10 hours!

Reserve yours now at tomwoodvolkswagennoblesville.com.

Just $100 Holds your place in line.

Volkswagen ID.4 The vehicle for a new age...

Featuring a modern space age interior, suites of enhanced driver assistance systems, and an EPA estimate 250 miles per full charge.

Customers should contact: Trey Hill @ 317-428-6960 or Trey_hill@tomwood.com Alex Hill @ 317-428-6937 or Alex_bell@tomwood.com

With two ways to charge in your home, and three years of free public charging through our partnership with Electrify America, fueling your vehicle has never been easier.

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Click Click Chic CLASSIC LOOKS TO REFRESH YOUR WINTER WARDROBE

Kit Mini: The Perfect Pair FUN AND FANCY VALENTINE’S DAY EARRINGS

Kit Mini: It’s Galentines Day! SIX CLEVER WAYS TO FETE YOUR BESTIES

Kit Mini: Fresh Start FLAWLESS FOUNDATION TIPS

Kit Mini: send letters THE SOUL-SOOTHING GIFT OF HANDWRITTEN CORRESPONDENCE

Kit Mini: take note OUR FAVORITE SNAIL MAIL STYLES

Kit Mini: lavender bliss CLEANSE, REFRESH AND CULTIVATE WITH THIS ANCIENT AROMATIC HERB

FEATURES 17 24

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silver slays THE STYLISH SEE WISDOM IN LETTING THEIR GRAY HAIR SHINE

Designing Deliciousness INDIANAPOLIS CHEF AND RESTAURANTEUR CONNIE LEE DISHES ABOUT FAMILY, FOOD AND FEMALE FELLOWSHIP

Haven for a Hero NURSE CHRISTA HAVEL, WINNER OF THE INDIANA DESIGN CENTER-KIT BEDROOM REFRESH CONTEST, SHOWS OFF HER AIRY OASIS

Thread Therapy IT’S NOT YOUR NANA’S KNITTING ANYMORE. TODAY’S NEEDLE ARTS DELIGHT WITH MODERN SASS.

crafty in carmel YOU DON’T HAVE TO TRAVEL FAR FOR INSPIRATION TO STRIKE

JENNIFER C. HUGHES hughes@cchalaw.com

LESLIE CRAIG HENDERZAHS henderzahs@cchalaw.com

2011, 2012, 2013, 2014, 2015, 2016, 2017

Begin from a position of strength.

Secure your future by working with an experienced Family Law Specialist who will advocate your interests and prepare you for the next phase of your life. Forge your future. You deserve to embrace it.

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TIPTON 118 S. Independence St. Tipton, IN 46072

MERRILLVILLE 8585 Broadway St., Suite 860 Merrillville, IN 46410

317-773-2190 www.cchalaw.com 1

KIT TEAM NOTE

my happiness project EDITOR + PUBLISHER Kelly McVey

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Ashlie Hartgraves

EDITORIAL CONSULTANT Alyssa Chase

WRITERS Alyssa Chase Sophie Fleetwood Nicole Keller Ariana Mathews Dawn Olsen Ria Rebein Brooke Reynolds Emily Sullivan

ART + PHOTOGRAPHY Chris Whonsetler LEAD PHOTOGRAPHER Wil Foster PHOTOGRAPHER Kyle Williams PHOTOGRAPHER Sophie Fleetwood ILLUSTRATOR Julie Taylor Reed DESIGNER

INTERNS Ria Rebein Emily Sullivan

MARKETING Gary Nickander

ADVERTISE WITH KIT sales@kitindy.com

FREE SUBSCRIPTION visit kitIndy.com

CUSTOMER SERVICE email info@kitindy.com Printed by EP Graphics, Berne, Indiana Hero’s Haven

MEET THE IDCKIT BEDROOM REFRESH WINNER IN HER AIRY OASIS

Gracefully Grombre

THE WISDOM AND JOY OF LETTING GRAY HAIR SHINE

Soul Candy

FIND COMFORT IN OLD SCHOOL CORRESPONDENCE, COOKING AND CRAFTING

JA N +FEB 2 0 2 1

kitindy.com

ON THE COVER

Photo by Chris Whonsetler

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I recently read an article that really inspired me: “5 Simple Things I Removed from My Life to Become Happier.” The author, Anthony J. Yeung, wrote that happiness is more about subtraction than addition, and it’s more practical to eliminate things that hurt us than to find things to help make us happy. The article reminded me of something my dad always says: “The rich person is not the one who has the most but the one who needs the least.” I never really got it. I’m the kind of person who always works toward the next ambitious goal.

But 2020 changed that. I couldn’t focus on the future or my goals in the same way. Slowing down and learning to be happy with less have made room for something new in my life. It all comes down to a few simple intentions: CONTINUE TO LEARN NEW THINGS. Overloading my days created stress in my life and in the people around me. Getting rid of a few todos has freed up time I plan to fill with learning. At the top of my list: knitting. I’m excited about our craft article (page 41), which features local women who practice and teach the arts of knitting, cross stitch, crochet and needlepoint.

BE OK WITH BEING ME. Spotty salon visits in 2020 forced me to face my gray. I found myself in good company. Amanda Newman, owner of Amanda’s exchange, embraced her gray and looks awesome! She shares her inspiring reasons for sporting silver in our article on the grombre movement (page 17), a must-read for anyone thinking about liberating her look.

LET THE PEOPLE I LOVE KNOW IT. I’ve lost some special people to Covid this year — a cousin, an uncle and my father-in-law. Those losses made me realize how important it is to reach out to the people we love. Old-fashioned correspondence has made a comeback. Check out our stories on letter-writing (page 21) and stationery (page 22), which remind us of the value of putting pen to paper — for both recipient and writer.

Here’s to staying healthy and connected in 2021!

KELLY McVEY, EDITOR + PUBLISHER

WHAT DID 2020 TEACH YOU ABOUT HAPPINESS?

#KITHAPPINESSPROJECT

INSPIRED BY YOUR APPETITE FOR NEW EXPERIENCES And complete women’s health that feeds mind, body and soul. At Franciscan Health Women and Children’s, we deliver the best care for every phase of a woman’s life, because we’re inspired by you.

And everything you’ll soon become.

Learn more about what inspires us at FranciscanHealth.org.

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KIT Text by Sophie Fleetwood + Photo by Chris Whonsetler

Opt for a timeless winter wardrobe. Choose accessories to style it your way. Visit kitindy.com and click up a new look.

Leather edge

Don’t be afraid to try out these youthful faux leather high-waisted leggings. The waistline is forgiving on your tummy and the leather look is slimming and sleek.

VIV Collection solid brushed signature full length leggings with yoga waistband, $19.99

Classy and cozy

This knit is oversized without feeling bulky and flatters all body types. You won’t want to take it off!

Caracilia casual women’s knit turtleneck long sleeve pullover sweater with irregular hem, $35.99

Confident in camel

It’s time to retire the puffy jacket.

This stylish pea coat keeps you warm while adding structure you can take from day to night.

GETUBACK women’s long sleeve open front pea coat, $46.99

Terrific tote

For daytime wear, choose a roomy bag with a classic shape for toting essentials. This satchel’s three compartments will help you keep things organized.

Dasein women’s top handle shoulder satchel with three compartments, $42.99

A pop of pattern

Add some pizazz with snakeskin booties. Don’t forget: Animal print is the new neutral. You can pull this off — we promise!

Women’s faux leather Western animal print pointed toe ankle booties with chunky block heel, $42.98

Grab-and-go

This crossbody quilted bag is a perfect accessory for a night out.

It holds all your necessities, and the round shape is oh so sweet.

Crossbody round faux leather quilted purse with tassel, $25.99

Lovin’ loafers

Give these stylish loafers a try.

Your tired feet will thank you.

Steve Madden Women’s Kandi Slip-on Loafer, $59.95

THESE PRETTY PURCHASES

ARE AFFORDABLE AND ADORABLE. VISIT KITINDY.COM TO QUICKLY ADD THEM TO YOUR CLOSET!

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PERFECT PAIR

Enhance your natural sparkle with fun or fancy Valentine’s Day earrings. Wear these with a romantic V-day outfit or add them to your wish list. Plus, show your love for local: All these sets are from Indianapolis-area small businesses.

By Ria Rebein + Photos by Chris Whonsetler

KIT

SWEET STUDS

HOOP HEAVEN

FREE SPIRIT

Handmade laser-cut wood earrings on sterling silver posts, $20, Silver in the City, silverinthecity.com.

SI1 G/H hoop earrings, Smith’s Jewelers on the Square, smithsonthesquare.com. Call 317-7733383 for price.

Brocade spiral earrings, $29, Global Gifts, globalgiftsft.com.

HOOSIER HEARTS

LOCAL LEATHER

DAINTY DUO

INDY heart stud earrings, $33.75, Homespun Indy, shop.homespunindy.com.

Hamilton Hobbs earrings, geometric magenta, $18, Endeavor Boutique, endeavorboutique. com.

UNO de 50 energia + earring, $100, Gallery 116, gallery116.com.

Robert Indiana would LOVE to see you in these studs, and your loved one would, too!

Show how much you [heart] Indy with dainty posts that proclaim your Hoosier pride.

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Sparkle in gold hoops inset with 52 carat round white diamonds. This set is sure to freshen up your fancy factor.

Match a magenta lip with edgy leather earrings, made locally with love in Hamilton County.

The spiral design of these earrings, handmade by women in a fair-trade workshop in India, symbolizes the path to consciousness.

This sweet set was crafted in Spain with Swarovski crystals. The golden and pastel accents set a romantic mood.

wishing

you houseplants & happiness in the

new year

no boys

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KIT

ALLOWED It’s almost Galentine’s Day! Here are six ways to celebrate with the ladies you love.

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By Ria Rebein

Since Amy Pohler’s “Parks and Recreation” character, Leslie Knope, feted her ladyfriends 11 years ago, women everywhere have been celebrating their own Galentine’s Day on February 13. Let’s get together to safely honor our own female friends this year.

Brunch all day In the original “Parks and Recreation” episode, women celebrate Galentine’s Day with waffles and mimosas. Add a feminine touch to your own brunch. Make heart-shaped waffles or send your friends this cute kitchen tool.

Dash DMW001HR mini waffle maker, $14.99, amazon.com.

2 PHOTO COURTESY OF HAMILTON COUNTY TOURISM

Sip wine in an igloo These adorable igloos at Urban Vines in Westfield seat up to eight people and include a heater, music and lights. Enjoy an outdoor wine night even in chilly February.

Two hours cost $30 Sunday through Wednesday; $50 Thursday through Saturday. Reserve at urban-vines.com/ igloos.

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Host a Galentine’s baked good exchange Staying socially distanced this year? Arrange for a baked good exchange in your friend group!

Each gal can make her favorite treat and send it to another friend, recipe included. Taste everyone’s creations and guess the baker over Zoom.

PHOTOS COURTESY OF ALICE’S TABLE

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Rally for a women’s cause What better way to celebrate Galentine’s Day than showing your support for women who need it most?

Draw attention to the issues that all women face. Organize a book drive for incarcerated women or a fundraiser for a women’s shelter.

In-kind donations to the Salvation Army’s Sally Shop at the Ruth Lilly Women and Children’s Center help women rebuild their lives.

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Celebrate with flowers Safely create a gorgeous bouquet at home with a virtual floral arrangement masterclass. Each ticket includes farm-fresh flowers shipped to your door, a vase or a foam heart to arrange with and live instruction, including tips and tricks.

Prices vary by class. alicestable.com/events/city/Indiana.

Unwind in a salt cave Create a memory that lasts while you relax.

Halotherapy is said to be beneficial for the skin, immune system and mental health, but it’s also a unique and interesting experience to try with your girls (up to 10 guests per session). An infrared sauna experience and hand and foot detox treatments are offered, too. $35 per person per session. indysaltcave.com/salt-cave.

For more information contact Pam Fleck at Pam_ Fleck@USC.SalvationArmy. org or 317-637-5551.

THANKS, AMY! Amy Pohler’s “Parks and Recreation” character, Leslie Knope, is the mastermind behind the holiday.

SALT CAVE PHOTOS COURTESY OF MICHAEL DURR PHOTOGRAPHY

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Declare Your Love

EVERY PURCHASE AT SMITH’S IS ACCOMPANIED BY A HANDMADE PARCHMENT FOR YOU TO DECLARE YOUR LOVE.

THE LEGACY CONTINUES...

SINCE 1946

WATCH THE HISTORY OF SMITHS JEWELERS HERE

WWW.SMITHSONTHESQUARE.COM /SMITHSONTHESQUARE SMITHSONTHESQUARE

(317) 773-3383 / 98 N 9TH STREET / NOBLESVILLE, IN 46060

SMITH’S JEWELERS NEW OWNERS. SAME HOMETOWN FEEL. When the former owner of Smith Jewelry Store, Odell Lakes, announced he was retiring in 2019, it was hard to imagine the historic Noblesville Courthouse Square without him. After all, Smith’s Jewelers was one of the longest-running businesses there, with 75 years in operation in the same historic building on 9th Street.

Thankfully, a driven and motivated three-year employee of Odell’s, Robby Hieser, expressed interest in purchasing the business when Odell announced his retirement. After 50 years of putting his heart into that store, Odell was thrilled to see Smith’s Jewelers live on with someone he knew, trained and trusted. Odell immediately stopped taking buyout offers from others and wanted to do whatever it took to sell the store to Robby.

Smith’s Jewelers is now in good hands with CEO Robby and COO Phil Hieser, who is also Robby’s dad. Robby loved working for and learning from Esther and Odell the last three years – they set a great example of how to treat customers and employees and how to be a contributing business in the community.

Robby’s background is from 18 years in a corporate jewelry store, where he was a bench jeweler and custom jeweler, making repairs, customizing jewelry and staying behind the scenes. Robby’s dad, Phil, came out of retirement for this opportunity with Smith’s, again putting to work his 35 years of experience in jewelry business management.

As the new owners of Smith’s, they’re reveling in the people-first, personable model of this small business.

ROBBY HIESER, CFO

“In most jewelry stores, the jewelers are in the background, and the salespeople are in the front of the store,” Robby says. “At Smith’s, we focus on the craftsmanship, so we blur the line between the jeweler and sales. That’s because we take pride in our work!”

Many jewelry stores have come and gone, but Smith’s remains. “Our goal is to maintain that local hometown feel that made the business what it is today,” Robby says.

PHIL HIESER, COO

“OUR GOAL IS TO MAINTAIN THAT LOCAL HOMETOWN FEEL THAT MADE THE BUSINESS WHAT IT IS TODAY,” –ROBBY HIESER

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When I worked in the cosmetics world, women asked me about foundation more than anything else.

Despite the overwhelming array of options, whatever face products my clients chose, they all shared the same goal: skin that looks naturally flawless. Here are six tips — straight from my livedand-learned beauty counter days — to help you achieve a fresh and flawless face.

fresh

By Brooke Reynolds + Photos by Chris Whonsetler

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PREP YOUR FACE WITH A HYDRATING PRIMER.

Applying primer is an invisible step, but one you shouldn’t skip. Primer smooths the look of uneven skin tones, softens redness and preps the skin for makeup. I love the TULA Skincare Face Filter because it’s extra moisturizing for the winter months, and it has “glow particles” in it that create the look of sunkissed, radiant skin. Massage a pea-sized amount onto the major areas of your face and let it absorb before applying foundation.

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CHOOSE A FORMULA AND COLOR THAT SUIT YOUR SKIN TYPE AND TONE. Here’s a

foundation formula crash course: If your skin is dry, use a hydrating liquid, stick or powder foundation. If you’re oily, use an oil-free liquid or powder foundation. If you’re somewhere in between, use a semimatte liquid or powder foundation. Semimatte foundations are the most common, so if the package doesn’t say the product is hydrating or oil-free, you can assume it’s semimatte.

When it comes to choosing a color, I suggest heading to the department store for professional help. It may cost more, but you can use your department-store purchase as a guide for buying less expensive products in the future.

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APPLY FOUNDATION WITH A MAKEUP SPONGE. Makeup brush

and fingertip applications work fine, but applying foundation with a makeup sponge achieves the appropriate coverage and finish for makeup in a mask. Try Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Foundation because of its 24hour staying power, humidity resistance and impressive shade range. Bounce it off the skin with a BeautyBlender to keep the application light.

If you want a dewier look, dampen the sponge with water before dipping it into the foundation.

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BRIGHTEN UNDER THE EYES. The eyes do all

the talking when our mouths are behind a mask, so let them shine! NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer instantly hides fine lines and wrinkles and covers up dark circles and signs of fatigue. It also hydrates and gives the skin a radiant finish. Dot and dab the concealer in your target areas — a sweeping motion will cause streaking. Use the concealer to cover up age spots or blemishes, too, especially now that “maskne” (mask acne) is a thing.

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SET THE LIQUID MAKEUP WITH LOOSE POWDER.

It’s a bummer when you notice that your foundation has stained your (or your loved ones’) clothing. Avoid that mess by setting your foundation and concealer with a high-quality loose setting powder. I like Kylie Cosmetics Loose Setting Powder for its ability to lock down your look and balance oils in the skin while providing a natural finish. Sweep the powder in the direction the hair grows, not against it, so you don’t end up with an overly dusted look.

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SWEAT-PROOF YOUR LOOK WITH A SETTING SPRAY. Normally a

setting powder alone would hold your foundation in place just fine, but with the added fabric on your face, it’s best to give your makeup a little extra love. Humidity and sweat caused by mask-wearing won’t be any obstacle for the ColourPop Pretty Fresh Hyaluronic Acid Setting Mist.

Added bonus: It’s hydrating — something we all need this time of year.

1. Kylie Cosmetics Loose Setting Powder, $24 2. Estee Lauder Double Wear Stay-in-Place Makeup, $43 3. BeautyBlender, $20 4. ColourPop Pretty Fresh Hyaluronic Acid Setting Mist, $12 5.

NARS Radiant Creamy Concealer, $30 6. TULA Skincare Face Filter blurring & moisturizing primer, $34

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silver S L AY S

THE STYLISH SEE WISDOM IN LETTING THEIR GRAY HAIR SHINE

By Nicole Keller + Photos by Kyle Williams

Glitter, sparkles, random spots of beauty — whatever you call your gray hair, those silvery strands have shone more brightly as folks had to take a hiatus from their hair stylists during quarantine.

Some lamented but some took the isolation as opportunity to experiment, go au naturel and see what lies beneath.

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Dakota Matt, color, extension and curly hair specialist at Dragonfly Salon in Geist, is definitely seeing silver. “I feel like a decent amount of my guests are either going gray or transitioning to something lower maintenance because they’re afraid of another shutdown,” she said. “Other people realized, ‘I have a lot of gray; maybe I should embrace this!’”

A pandemic isn’t good for much but you can comfortably slay in your gray, Dakota said. “More people are at home; there are fewer events to worry about. Even if you have a Zoom call, I don’t think people are going to be noticing gray hair as much, so it’s not that big of a deal.”

crush the color The silver celebration began a couple of years ago when British TV personality Sharon Osbourne went white, Dakota said. “Sharon Osbourne normally has red hair, and when she went white, it was such a big transformation. You see celebrities doing it now, and it’s becoming more socially acceptable.”

Stylist Sami Dunn of HUE on Rangeline in Carmel joined the gray parade at 27.

“I have naturally brown hair with a lot of blonde in it and I’ve been all-over blonde platinum with a gray tone on it,” she said. “It felt like a fashion color, and it was way more flattering on my skin tone than just plain platinum. A lot of clients asked why I’d want to be gray, and I said, ‘because it’s so pretty!’”

honor yourself Dunn’s client Amanda Newman of Amanda’s Exchange in Carmel had more than just a color transformation in mind when she decided to embrace her natural hair. “I spent a few years thinking about it because of the upkeep and maintenance,” Amanda said. “I kept asking my stylist, ‘what percentage gray am I?’ When it was maybe 50 percent dark in the back, I didn’t think I should; it wasn’t time yet.”

A tragedy in Amanda’s family caused her to evaluate many things, the very least of which was her hair. “We lost my niece Halston to suicide at 28 — she had battled anxiety and depression but she had the most wonderful huge heart and we’re still baffled as to why it happened,” Amanda said. “It really makes you think about what’s important and what’s not. It made me think: Why am I working so hard to cover up who I am?”

BEST SIDE Amanda's natural color and fresh cut impress at all angles.

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Amanda chose a quick path to change with curiosity as her driver. She stopped coloring her hair in September 2019 and Sami kept cutting it shorter and shorter until Amanda rocked a pixie cut. “I was not one to handle looking at dark hair and light hair together; I’d rather just go short and get it done a lot quicker,” she said. “I’m kind of impatient. I just thought, ‘Why not?’”

rockin’ response Amanda’s new silver foxiness has been a surprise, since she sees her current style as just being true to herself. “I’m shocked at how people I don’t know will stop me and compliment me,” she said.

“I feel like: This is my natural color and it works with my skin tone better than what I can artificially do.”

The fans keep coming. “At the dog park, one woman said, ‘I wish I had the courage to do that.’” Amanda said, “Do it! You can always color it again.”

Ultimately, it’s all about what you’re comfortable with, she explained. “We shouldn’t judge each other. Accept that someone else’s journey may not be yours. I think the biggest reason why people don’t embrace their gray is they don’t want to be judged by others as old. But I’m getting braver — it doesn’t matter what other people are thinking about my hair. It’s just hair.”

PHOTO BY JESS JACKSON

grombre THE ART OF GOING

LEFT Sami Dunn of HUE on Rangeline in Carmel. RIGHT Dakota Matt of Dragonfly Salon in Geist. BOTTOM Snag Amanda's style at Amanda's Exchange.

Go with guidance. If anything is clear about the dreaded Line of Demarcation, it’s better to approach the Continental Divide between enhanced hair and what comes directly out of your head with a professional’s finesse. “Leaving a line can be harsh, but highlighting it yourself can really risk damage to your hair,” said Dakota Matt, a stylist at Dragonfly Salon in Geist. “A stylist you trust can see how the color is lifting and will know when to tone it and how to make it all blend.”

Sami Dunn, stylist at HUE on Rangeline in Carmel, concurs. “A stylist who knows you knows your hair best and can help you get there in a healthy and consistent way,” she said.

Prep with patience. A transition like

this takes a minute, so patience is the main ingredient for success, Dakota said. “Keep an open mind to the process because it’s different for everyone once you decide how quickly you want to embrace it.” Most of her guests have asked for a slow transition, starting with highlights to match “the white wisdom hairs, as I like to call them,” she said.

Get chilly. In the search for silver, you

need to let go of warmth, Dakota said. “Gray hair is very cool, so the biggest obstacle is getting the yellow and golden reflection out of previously colored hair and getting that to match your natural color,” she said.

Prime with purple. Gray hair can dull over time with mineral buildup from your water, so you need the right shampoo to keep your locks bright and clean. Dakota recommends Oribe Silverati Shampoo and Conditioner and Oribe Bright Blonde Shampoo and Conditioner once gray is your dominant color. Sami likes Oligo’s Blacklight Violet Shampoo and Blacklight Nourishing Conditioner to eliminate yellow tones.

Embrace change together. Going gray is a trend, so of course Instagram and Facebook are there for silver inspiration and support. Check out Grombre (grombre.com), which is an Instagram group that calls itself “a radical celebration of the natural phenomenon of gray hair.” Amanda Newman of Amanda’s Exchange follows the Facebook group Gray & Proud, where you can read about silver sisters’ and brothers’ experiences letting go of gray — and let go of expectations, too.

Give yourself grace. Updates of any kind can bring upheaval, and hair is no different, Dakota said. “You’ve seen yourself with the same color on your skin for so long, so seeing less of a contrast between your skin and your hair is an emotional thing,” she said.

“I’m very honest and genuine with my guests, and if I don’t think it will look good, I’ll say so.

If I do encourage you, you’ll know I’m being honest.”

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K MINI

By Dawn Olsen + Illustrations by Sophie Fleetwood

In this age of virtual communication and social isolation, handwritten letters — recently considered passe — have returned. A United States Postal Service study reports that one in six people increased their outgoing mail after the onset of COVID-19. Even more people said receiving mail “lifts their spirits.”

All the more reason to put pen to paper.

Here are some tips on what to say, what to do and how to make a difference with the no-longer-lost art of handwritten correspondence.

TAKE YOUR TIME

ASK QUESTIONS

Letter writing is deliberate, not instantaneous. Unlike email, there’s no pressure to respond immediately, no three-dot bubble influencing your thoughts.

Give yourself space to reflect — it’s more cleansing than you expect.

Did you finish the book you were reading? How is your nephew? Do you remember the time …? Let recipients know you’ve been thinking about them, and that you’re curious about their everyday lives.

EXPRESSIVE WRITING HELPS YOU COPE Research shows that people in quarantine or isolation are more anxious. Take those feelings, put ’em to paper and share them with a friend or a family member.

You’re not alone, and neither are they.

CREATE A SCENE By the time your letter reaches its destination, anything and everything could’ve changed. So, set the scene. Are you at your kitchen table, watching the snow? Or are you at your desk, cozied up with a cup of hot tea? Are you sitting in front of your Zoom background, sneaking in a little pen-and-paper time?

THANK THE RECIPIENT Go beyond traditional thank-you notes and provide support and gratitude in a personal way.

Tell the recipient why you’re grateful to know them or what you’ve learned from them. Tell them what you’d like to do together once the pandemic is over.

KIT

DON’T WORRY ABOUT FINDING THE PERFECT WORDS Just be honest and sincere.

Write from the heart, just as you’d speak. Adopt a spirit of cheerfulness or just tell it like it is.

MAKE YOUR MESSAGE BEAUTIFUL Invest in stationery and a pretty pen (see our stationery story on page 22). Or try your hand at mail art. Browse the internet for inspiration, invest in stickers and stamps, doodle on the envelope or include some ephemera just for fun. Even if you’re not feeling artsy, remember that, to the recipient, your handwriting is a thing of beauty.

KEEP IT PERSONAL For the sender, letterwriting is an opportunity to be raw, to unlock feelings and thoughts they didn’t know they had. For the recipient, it’s about connection — about holding a piece of paper someone they care about has touched.

REMEMBER THAT, TO THE RECIPIENT, YOUR HANDWRITING IS A THING OF BEAUTY.

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take

K

NOTE

MINI

KIT

Whether you’re writing a love letter, sympathy card, thank-you note or oldfashioned message, think of how you’d like to receive it. Stylish stationery gives your correspondence a thoughtful touch sure to charm your loved ones. Turn your note into a work of art with these enchanting choices.

FLORAL AND FAB

By Emily Sullivan + Photos by Chris Whonsetler

Double up on adorable notebooks from 1Canoe2.

The larger one is perfect for all your big ideas, while the small one's convenient check boxes house all your to-dos.

Amber Rose and Mint Meadow Notebooks, 1Canoe2, 1Canoe2. com, $12.50.

BACK TO BASICS Each event in life deserves a nice handwritten card, but we don’t always remember to have extras on hand. This set includes a perfect mix of essentials for every occasion.

Rifle Paper Co. Mixed Florals Essentials Card Set, Silver in the City, silverinthecity.com, $28.

STRIKE A CHORD This sketchbook journal includes inspiring words from Bob Dylan, encouraging your creative spirit.

CUTE AND CLEVER Sophie Fleetwood, an Indianapolis-based illustrator and former kit intern, stocks her website with trendy and witty cards for any occasion. She shares new designs frequently, too.

Simply Sophie Designs Cards, simplysophiedesigns.com, $5-$25.

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Bob Dylan Note/ Sketch Pad, Gallery 116, gallery116.com, $48

A BOX OF WHIMSY Keep all your future thoughts and wishes stored together in this classy and convenient stationery box set. With two types of whimsical papers, you’re sure to create the perfect note, letter or list.

Willow Flat Note Set, 1Canoe2, 1canoe2.com, $16.50.

HOOSIER HELLOS Show your spirit for both your state and country with locally designed stationery pieces that come in unique shapes, designs and textures.

Indiana Charmpad, Rusted Window, rustedwindow.com, $7.50.

Dream Big Shop Small Card by Anna Grunduls Design, Gallery 116, gallery116.com, $3. Indiana Postcard by Noteworthy Paper & Press, Rusted Window, $5.

SENDING FLOWERS Blank cards keep you prepared for any noteworthy occasion. Stash this timeless floral set in your desk, car or purse for onthe-go greetings.

Botanical Assorted Card Set, Rifle Paper Co., riflepaperco.com, $20.

LOVE LETTERS Love is in the air — or should we say, in the air mail? No matter how far away your loved one is, show them you care with a cute card.

Simply Sophie Designs Cards, simplysophiedesigns.com, $5.

Galentine's Day Card, Rifle Paper Co., riflepaperco.com, $5.

CHARMED FOR SURE

SCHEDULE SAVVY

Say thank you, congratulations or just hello with one of these delicate botanical designs.

Set your schedule and encourage yourself with this funky and affordable planner set.

Botanical Stationery Set, Rifle Paper Co., riflepaperco.com, $22.

CUSTOM AND LOCAL Support South Bend artist Lydia Carns, who makes and sells handmade stationery on Etsy.

The customizable option makes each purchase unique.

The Illustrated Life Custom Card/ Fiddle Leaf Fig Card, Etsy @ theillustratedlife, $17- $20 per set.

Now House Terrazo Planner by Jonathan Adler, $12.99. Copper Wire Clips, $6.25.

Modernist Pencil Set, $12. All from Silver in the City, silverinthecity.com.

23

designing

deliciousness JUST IN TIME FOR CHINESE NEW YEAR, INDIANAPOLIS CHEF AND RESTAURANTEUR CONNIE LEE DISHES ABOUT FINDING INSPIRATION IN FAMILY, FOOD AND FEMALE FELLOWSHIP

By Alyssa Chase + Photos by Chris Whonsetler

It starts with flour and water. Like so many foods that have comforted humans for millennia, dumplings begin with the most basic of ingredients. As with bread or pie, the difference between these foods lies in the technique used to prepare them, the type of fat or filling added, the culture they hail from and the style of the cook. In China, the names and preparations for dumplings, also known as jiaozi, vary as much as the culture itself, yet each recipe begins with those same, simple ingredients: the water, the flour.

You could say life is much the same way. Basic ingredients — family, friends and a sense of who we are — set the foundation for a happy and successful life. Those essentials have kept Connie Lee going.

The Cordon Bleu-trained chef manages her familyowned Japanese restaurant, Mikado, which so far has survived a pandemic, a couple of recessions and major construction just outside its doors.

Connie finds support in the male-dominated food industry through the Indy Women in Food group (find it on Facebook). And cooking and sharing food with her Chinese family have always brought comfort, which Connie is happy to share.

During the early days of quarantine, local TV stations aired stories about the “pandemic potstickers” Mikado offers as takeout. Connie admits that, especially when it comes to Asian food, many recipes are so complex, it’s best to rely on the experts. Yet there are a few dishes you really should try at home, and dumplings are one of them. “Dumplings are so simple and versatile — they’re the heart of comfort food for my culture and my family,” Connie said.

“That’s why I love them.” We’re hoping you will, too.

25

restaurant roots

Connections in the sports world brought Connie’s grandfather, Chi Chein-Hung (known to many as Papa Chi), the former national basketball coach of Taiwan, to Indiana. Although the family, with roots in various areas of China — Beijing, Sichuan, Guangdong — soon became known for its successful restaurants.

Connie entered the family business as a child, slicing dessert oranges at The Wok, her family’s upscale Chinese restaurant at Dunkirk Square in Bloomington, a hotspot Indiana University grads may remember. Her favorite job? Packing up carryout orders for tips, which she’d immediately spend on treats at Penguin Ice Cream downstairs. “It wasn’t child labor,” Connie says with a laugh. “Just the family business.”

Connie’s parents opened Szechwan Restaurant in Greenwood and the first iteration of Mikado in Bloomington in the early ’90s. Their transition to Japanese cuisine involved consultants and research. “It was a business decision,” Connie said — a move that aligned with the family’s approach to fine dining. “The food my family serves has always been a little on the higher end. So sushi was a good fit for us. It requires really fresh ingredients.” The switch to Japanese food also appealed to the Lee family because, at the time, many Chinese restaurants had gone the way of buffets, which definitely weren’t their style.

In 1997, Connie’s family relocated Mikado to downtown Indianapolis to capitalize on the revitalization sparked by the newly opened Circle Centre Mall. Soon the restaurant, which serves FrenchJapanese fusion dishes in addition to super-fresh sushi, became a destination for tourists, conventiongoers and locals out for a night on the town.

stirring up confidence

Except for a “period of rebellion” that included stints at American restaurants in high school and college, Connie has worked in her family’s restaurants all her life. After studying comparative literature at IU, she moved to California to attend the California Culinary Academy, a branch of Le Cordon Bleu cooking school in San Francisco. After graduating, Connie earned her chops as a chef in top-shelf San Francisco restaurants, including Bix, then moved back to Indy in 2006 to run Mikado.

The going hasn’t always been easy. A year after Connie returned, the financial crisis hit. Then came the implosion of the RCA Dome and construction on Georgia Street. “Workers put dumpsters 26 kitindy.com

right next to our windows,” Connie said.

“It looked like we were closed.” In the months leading up to the 2012 Super Bowl, Connie maxed out her restaurant credit cards. But Indy’s big event turned the tide, Connie said: “The Super Bowl saved us.”

Navigating such challenges isn’t easy for any restaurant owner, and women face even more hurdles. “In Indy, all the big-name chefs are white men,” said Connie. At business meetings, Connie may be overlooked if a male subordinate is present. On top of that, there’s a bias against women in the culture of sushi.

Mikado’s original sushi chef, a native of Japan, refused to mentor Connie.

“He said women don’t belong behind a sushi bar because of their higher body temperature,” she said.

Fortunately, when that chef left town, his protegee, Ernesto “Chef Ernie” Paez, passed on his expertise, and Connie’s skills as a sushi chef grew. The Indy Women in Food group helped, too.

Inspired by a 2016 panel discussion with the same name, Ashley Brooks (owner of A. Rose Hospitality, president of Garfield Park Farmers Market and a cofounder of Milktooth) and food blogger Sonja Overhiser launched Indy Women in Food with the goal of connecting women working in food in Indianapolis.

“It opened up a new world for me,” Connie said of the group. “The support of other women helps me realize I know more than I thought I did. It instills confidence in me.”

That includes the confidence to make her mother, Yumei Lee’s, dumplings.

Dumplings are so simple and versatile — they’re the heart of comfort food for my culture and my family.

CHEF CONNIE LEE

Connie Lee is a

Cordon Bleu-trained chef and general manager of the Mikado Japanese Restaurant.

In addition to Japanese cuisine, Mikado offers specials for takeout, including homemade Chinese dumplings. indymikado.com mikadoindy @mikadoindy @iamconnielee

a taste of home

As much as Connie loves cooking and taking care of patrons at her restaurant, she enjoys eating. “I love Japanese food,” she said. “And I really love Chinese food, because it’s what I grew up with.” Connie’s favorite comfort foods include American standards like mac and cheese, but she prefers Chinese soul food, aka anything her mother and her aunt Vivian Chi make.

“Whenever my mom and aunt cook, I’m so excited about it,” Connie said, describing a simple dish prepared with egg, pork, salt, sesame oil and a few freshly foraged mushrooms over rice.

“It’s so good — you really taste all the ingredients.”

That’s the magic of home-cooked Chinese food, especially when the ingredients are super-fresh and the cook knows what he or she is doing.

Although, when it comes to Asian cooking, let’s face it: Many of us don’t know what we’re doing. And that’s okay.

Takeout orders keep restaurants like Mikado going.

time for takeout

“I’d never try to make sushi at home,” Connie said. “The prep work is intense, and it takes a lot of specialized equipment. At Mikado, we cut cucumber into sheets with knife in hand, then we dunk the cucumber into ice water and drain it until it dries so it doesn’t seep out water. That process alone takes a little over an hour because of the time it takes to dry. Rice takes 45 minutes to cook, then you have to manipulate it, adding special vinegar. The vinegar soaks in kombu, a Japanese seaweed, for at least a day so the kombu flavor can infuse the vinegar.”

Deep frying doesn’t always go well at home, either. “It leaves a weird smell in your house,” Connie said. “And where do you put the oil?” When you’re stir frying, you can’t always get the same heat at home, because the gas isn’t as powerful as a professional stove. “It’s not necessarily the temperature; it’s that the heat comes out faster on restaurant equipment. That’s why restaurant food is sometimes better than at home,” Connie said. “I like my vegetables with a little crunch — that’s because of the way the pan heats up.”

All that said, there’s at least one Asian staple novice Western cooks should brave.

chinese comfort food

Connie describes dumplings as “supertasty balls of deliciousness.” They can be boiled, fried, steamed or baked in a clay oven. Their shapes and fillings vary, too.

“They’re such a versatile food,” Connie said. “Once you learn to make at least one version, you can play around and add whatever ingredients you want to inside.”

Traditionally Chinese families eat dumplings at midnight on Lunar New Year's Eve. “The idea is if you eat them, you become more prosperous,” Connie said, because dumplings resemble an ancient form of Chinese currency.

These days, people eat dumplings anytime. “We make them when we’re happy, when we’re sad — for any reason at all,” Connie said. You’ll find them at dim sum houses, as an appetizer, as a side dish or as a main course. “In Taiwan, at night markets, a quarter of the stalls serve some sort of dumpling,” Connie said. “Our family eats them together, and a meal could be 10 to 20 dumplings per person.”

Feeling hungry yet? These tips and recipes from Connie should help you get started on your own homemade dumplings.

27

love stuffed with

1

make the dough Dumpling dough Creates 25 dumpling wrappers

INGREDIENTS 3+ cups all-purpose flour 1 cup water* (warm from the faucet) pinch of salt

DIRECTIONS Combine flour, salt and water. Knead until combined and sticky. (You may need a little more or a little less water; it depends of the brand of flour you use.) Put kneaded dough in a bowl and lay a damp towel on top of it. Let dough sit at room temperature for at least an hour and up to three hours.

A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO MAKING CHINESE DUMPLINGS

*For colored dumpling wrappers: Substitute carrot or spinach juice for the water.

2

make the filling Pork filling

Fills approximately 25 dumpling wrappers

INGREDIENTS 11/4 pounds of ground pork 1 /4 head of cabbage (blanched and squeezed dry and rough chopped into small pieces) 1 egg (hard scrambled and chopped) 1 tablespoon grated ginger 2 green onions, chopped small white pepper to taste (approximately 2 dashes) 11/2 tablespoons soy sauce 2 big pinches of salt 1 teaspoon sesame oil

DIRECTIONS Mix all ingredients together. Scoop out a bit of filling and cook in a pan to taste it. Adjust seasoning (salt and pepper) to your taste.

Veggie filling ROLL WITH IT Use a regular rolling pin or purchase a dumpling rolling pin online or at an Asian supply store such as Viet Hua Food Market, at 6336 82nd Street in Castleton Square. You can also create your own rolling pin from a half-inch dowel rod.

Fills approximately 25 dumpling wrappers

INGREDIENTS /4 head of Napa cabbage (blanched, squeezed dry and chopped) 1 pound chopped mushrooms (any kind you like) 1 large carrot (approximately 8 oz.), blanched and chopped 2 eggs, hard scrambled and chopped (optional) Four green onions, chopped 1 teaspoon sesame oil Salt and white pepper to taste

1

DIRECTIONS Mix all ingredients together and season to taste.

Freeze fresh Dumplings freeze well. Just pack assembled dumplings in an airtight container and freeze for up to two weeks.

There’s no need for defrosting before cooking. You can fry or boil dumplings immediately after removing them from the freezer.

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3 4 5

roll the dough

Dust counter with flour and knead dough until it reaches the consistency of Play-Doh. Cut dough into four pieces. Roll each piece of dough into a rope (each approximately 1 inch in diameter).

Cut each rope into cross-sections (each section approximately 3/4 inch long). Press down each cross-section into a disc and roll it into a circle shape (approximately 2.5-3 inches in diameter) Dust board or rolling pin as needed throughout the process.

fill the dumplings

Fill each dumpling wrapper with approximately 1 ounce of filling. Tightly pinch edges of wrapper to seal it (see step-by-step photos).

cook the dumplings

6

TO PAN FRY

serve the dumplings

Connie’s dumplings are best served pan fried or boiled.

Heat a skillet or wok coated with vegetable oil (not olive oil) just until the oil begins so smoke.

Place about 8 dumplings gently into the pan.

After about 30 seconds, add water to the pan. (It should just reach the top fold of the dumplings.)

Put a lid on the pan, reduce heat to medium, and cook until the water evaporates, about 7 or 8 minutes for fresh dumplings and about 15 minutes for frozen dumplings, checking the dumplings frequently.

Note: Prepared dumplings may be dark in color.

Caramelization adds to the flavor.

TO BOIL STUFF THE BELLIES When filling dumplings, aim for a fat belly.

“Think of a bite-sized meatball,” Connie said.

GOOD HEALTH + FORTUNE Dumplings, traditionally served at Lunar New Year, represent prosperity because their shape resembles ancient Chinese currency.

Lunar New Year 2021 (the Year of the Ox) kicks off February 11-22.

Bring a large pot of water to a boil. Cook dumplings in batches of about 8 until they are cooked through, 3 to 4 minutes for fresh dumplings and about 15 minutes for frozen dumplings. Using a slotted spoon, transfer the dumplings to a serving platter. Serve warm with the dipping sauce.

Connie likes to serve the dumplings crispy side up if they’re pan fried. It shows off the golden brown color of the potstickers.

Don’t forget the dipping sauce!

Connie uses a dumpling dipping sauce passed down from her grandparents. That recipe is secret, and you can taste it when you order Connie’s dumplings at Mikado or from Market Wagon.

(Go to indianapolis.marketwagon.com and type Mikado in the search box.) Connie shared this simple dipping sauce recipe to try at home:

DIPPING SAUCE INGREDIENTS 1 tablespoon minced garlic 1 tablespoon finely chopped green onions 1-4 tablespoons chili oil (to taste) 2 ounces vinegar (dark Chinese or balsamic) 4 ounces soy sauce

DIRECTIONS In a small bowl, whisk ingredients and then serve. The sauce can be regrigerated for up to three days.

WRAP TRICKS Chinese dumplings, or jiaozi, are different than wontons.

They have a thicker skin and are usually eaten with a soyvinegar or hot chili sauce.

Wontons have thinner skins and are frequently served in broth. That said, if you’re not up to making your own dough, you can use storebought wonton wrappers for your dumplings. Find them online or at Castleton’s Viet Hua food market.

PLAY WITH DOUGH: A NOTE FROM THE CHEF Have fun with the fillings!

These are the traditional recipes I use, but you can substitute ground chicken, turkey or beef (whatever protein you like) for pork.

You can also add any vegetables you like as long as their water content isn’t too high. To cut down on water content, blanch the vegetables and squeeze them dry before adding them to the filling.—Connie Lee

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H HOME

KIT

HAVEN FOR A HERO

LET’S CELEBRATE THE WINNER OF THE INDIANA DESIGN CENTER-KIT MAGAZINE BEDROOM REFRESH CONTEST, NURSE CHRISTA HAVEL, AND HER AIRY AND CALMING NEW OASIS

By Nicole Keller + Photos by Chris Whonselter

You might not think designers and health care workers have a lot in common — but they do! Both improve the outlook of others with their caring and creativity.

“Good design can help you feel comfortable at home — with a sense of retreat and a reprieve from the world,” said Andrea Kleymeyer of the Indiana Design Center. That understanding inspired one group of designers to make a difference for someone who deserved it.

33

COLLABORATING TO CARE

CREATING A SANCTUARY

When her business slowed in March, designer Stacy Molander of Rusted Window, which has a showroom in the Indiana Design Center, wanted to respond in a meaningful way. “I needed to figure out how to navigate through this — and I needed some good news,” she said.

Stacy started by emailing fellow showrooms at the Indiana Design Center, Drapery Street and Holder Mattress. Their idea? A contest that would help a dedicated health care worker refurbish a bedroom. The Indiana Design Center-Kit magazine Healthcare Heroes Bedroom Refresh Contest, which wrapped up last fall, offered readers a chance to nominate a deserving health care worker for a bedroom makeover.

The bedroom makeover has been healing for Christa, who just celebrated her 20th wedding anniversary with her husband, Mark, a pastor at Cross of Grace Lutheran Church. “Oh my gosh, it’s so fantastic and beautiful and relaxing. Since they finished, I don’t know that I’ve left the room except to go down to eat,” she said. “This is one of the things we just don’t do for ourselves — we’re saving for our kids’ college. We don’t rehab a bedroom. It’s been such a luxurious gift. We’re so appreciative of all of the work put in, especially from Stacy.

She did a great job.”

Andrea and her partners at the Indiana Design Center, which helps visitors get started on any kind of renovation or re-do, eagerly joined the effort. “They asked me to help with the other vendors, and we quickly got so many ‘yeses,’ I realized just how big this could actually be,” she said.

HELPING A HELPER Contest winner Christa Havel of New Palestine stood out to the judges because of her versatility and selflessness.

“Christa is a surgical nurse in an outpatient surgery center. After it closed, she volunteered to go work in the COVID ward at the hospital,” Stacy said. “She didn’t have to put herself on the front line — she had a safe job — but she did. Her commitment really resonated with us.”

Retired nurse Susan Brown nominated her friend for the bedroom refresh because she understood the challenges Christa and her fellow Community Hospital North nurses faced. “This was completely out of their comfort zones, not to mention on the front lines of the outbreak,” Susan wrote.

“Christa came out unscathed only to find out she has invasive breast cancer. This girl always goes above and beyond to help others, and it would be great to have something given to her.”

34 kitindy.com

Stacy coordinated the entire Indiana Design Center effort with extensive COVID-19 sanitation protocols and a special understanding of Christa’s experience. “When I had cancer a second time, we were just starting to remodel our bedroom,” Stacy said. “It took way too long, and I was doing it myself and trying to recover in a bedroom under construction — it was not peaceful or restful at all. You need something calm and positive if you’re going to spend so much time within the same four walls.”

HEALING AT HOME Christa finds her new room full of love and healing.

“There are times in this journey when there are a lot of lows and not a lot of highs,” she said. “It’s not just the stuff but the generosity of all of the sponsors in this gesture. Nurses don’t get a lot of perks being in the trenches every day. It means a lot to me that someone put in so much heart to help me and my family,” which also includes her sons Jackson, 16, and Max, 13, who helped move furniture.

The contest and collaboration have been healing on both sides, Andrea said. “Design is a collaborative industry, and we thrive on that. Working together holds us together, too.”

A HERO'S WELCOME Visit indianadesigncenter.com/ healthcarehero to browse a list of showroom offerings for health care workers. Certain restrictions apply.

BEFORE

BEDROOM BEFORE Contest winner Christa Havel described her bedroom before the makeover as mediocre.

“We hadn’t done anything in the 12 years we’ve lived here, and it had all the ’90s brown woodwork,” she said. “Now it’s such a relaxing sanctuary.”

BEDDING BEYOND Christa and her husband, John, actually had been thinking, the week before her win, about buying a new bed. “I said ‘I can’t go through chemo in something so horrible,’” Christa said. “The new bedding is super soft and luxurious. We’re everyday, average people, and I’ve never bought bedding so nice. It’s so soothing to have some really great textiles.”

SOOTHING STYLE Christa describes her style as casual, not modern but not farmhouse. Rusted Window designer Stacy Molander “hit it right on,” with her bedroom design, she said. “It’s got modern features but it’s still comfortable.”

FAVORITE FURNITURE The recliner provided

by Outré covered in blue Sunbrella fabric is “fantastically comfortable” to read or rest in, Christa said.

So far, the chair is her favorite part of the room beyond the bed.

Stacy also included nightstands and a side table with lots of storage at the couple’s request.

ARTISTIC TOUCHES Stacy requested wall art from her Indiana Design Center partners and asked Christa which pieces appealed to her. “Stacy picked out some beautiful pictures, some that I wouldn’t necessarily have picked out myself, but they turned out perfect!” Christa said.

HUE CLUES Stacy sought to create “a peaceful, calm, comfortable place that Christa and Mark can relax in,” using Sherwin Williams’ Agreeable Gray for the walls and white for the trim, plus navy and beige.

BEDROOM REFRESH BEHIND THE BEDROOM

All the details on what the Indiana Design Center and partner contributors provided.

PLATINUM ($2,000+)

Holder Mattress: Bed, mattress, mattress protector and box springs. Two sleeping pillows and protectors. Three pieces of framed artwork.

Rusted Window: Design and coordination plus bedding, sheets, pillow inserts and accessories. Two nightstands provided by Pedcor, Indiana Design Center’s ownership company.

GOLD ($1,000+)

Drapery Street: Four drapery panels with hardware and blackout lining.

Ferguson Bath, Kitchen & Lighting Gallery: Ceiling fan and light combo.

Heritage Custom Painting: Painted the walls, doors and trim.

Outré: Recliner chair in blue Sunbrella fabric.

PAIR’D Furnishings: Accent chest, two lamps, lumbar throw pillow.

SILVER ($500)

Coats Wright Art & Design: Framed artwork by artist J.D. Naraine near beside recliner.

Premier—Luxury Electronic Lifestyles: Two Sonos Play3 wireless music players.

Sherwin Williams: Paint.

The Trade Resource: Fabric and sewing for a set of custom pillows.

Your heart’s in the right place.

Location is everything when it comes to treating cardiovascular conditions. At Community Heart and Vascular Hospital, our new state-of-the-art technologies and expert care mean you have access to Indy’s preeminent healthcare resource, allowing you to be where your heart desires.

Take your heart to Community today to live life to the fullest tomorrow.

Visit eCommunity.com/heart to learn more and take our free Health Risk Assessment.

EXCEPTIONAL CARE. SIMPLY DELIVERED.

M MINI

KIT

lavender

bliss

By Ariana Mathews

Scents have a stronger connection to memory and emotion than any other sense. A fragrance can invoke nostalgia, unlocking even the most distant memories.

For many, the scent of lavender has this power, calling to mind a grandmother’s living room, a summer afternoon or a best friend’s wedding. Native to the hot, dry Mediterranean, the word lavender derives from the Latin “lavare,” meaning “to wash.” As far back as ancient Egypt, lavender oil has been used to purify the mind and body, and its reputation for freshness and cleansing endures today. Here are three ways to discover lavender bliss in your home and garden.

GROW

In the winter months, garden shops carry annual lavenders you can enjoy indoors. Look for Spanish lavender topiaries with eye-catching featherlike blooms, which thrive as long as you place them in a bright, sunny spot and avoid overwatering. “You can use them for cut or dried stems just as you would lavender in your yard,” said Jack Phipps, annual and perennial manager at Allisonville Nursery, Garden & Home. Lavender needs lots of sun and space and good drainage. Indiana terrain differs vastly from its Mediterranean home, and it can suffer in the Midwest’s dense clay soil. Hardy outdoor varieties include Munstead, which is most cold-hardy, and Hidcote, which produces beautiful cut stems. “A variety called Provence is most fragrant,” Jack said, “But it won’t overwinter in our area.” (We’re in zone 5.)

Goodwin Creek lavender’s silver leaves with ruffled edges make it special, but it’s not winter-hardy in our zone, either. “There are so many cool lavenders to choose from when you consider it an annual,” Jack said.

PLANT: Lavender plants, $5.99 and up, Allisonville Nursery, Garden & Home, allisonvillegarden.com

EAT

If you’re a fan of “The Great British Baking Show,” you probably know that lavender is a popular ingredient in cakes, cookies, muffins and more, and is frequently paired with lemon or honey.

Even outside of baking, it’s used to flavor ice cream and brewed beverages like tea and kombucha.

TASTE: French culinary lavender, $23.88, Cost Plus World Market, worldmarket.com

HEAL

Whether it’s fresh on the stem, a dried bud or an oil, lavender has been calming anxiety, soothing headaches and cooling sunburns for millennia. It’s a common component in face masks and cleansers (often mixed with chamomile), as it’s known to soften skin. It can even help with diaper rash. Perhaps the most popular use for lavender is aromatherapy.

During a massage, or at bath time or bedtime, light a lavender-scented candle or use lavender essential oils in an aroma diffuser to induce relaxation.

SMELL: 100% NOW pure lavender oil, $31.99, Good Earth Natural Food Company, goodearth.com

TRY A DIY To create lavender baby wipes, combine aloe vera, witch hazel extract, pure castile soap and lavender essential oil and soak a roll of paper towels in the mixture.

Add zing to homemade kombucha — or chamomile tea — by adding a sprig of lavender and a few lemon wedges after brewing.

Harvest lavender to decorate or perfume your home by clipping flower stems just above the leaves and giving them a month to dry.

37

ADVERTORIAL

EXPERT ADVICE

LONG MONTHS,

DARK WINTER THE EMOTIONAL TOLL OF COVID-19

COVID-19 UPDATE FROM DR. ELLIOTT, LIVING WITH INTENTION

AS MENTIONED IN OUR JULY UPDATE, this fact is clearer than ever: COVID-19 is not going away anytime soon. We are definitely in this thing for the long haul.

At that time, in late July, our US infection count had just passed 4 million. Today, at the time of this writing, that number is well above 19 million. Just a few days earlier, that number had just topped 16 million, and, just days before that, 15 million. Today, the death toll exceeds 335,000, with many predicting 400,000 or even 500,000 sometime this spring.

After a while, the numbers become, well, almost numbing. It can be hard, but still extremely important, to remember that each number represents a unique person, a precious human life. Behind the numbers lies suffering. Tragedy. Dreams shattered. Families devastated.

And, just as expected, just as predicted, the fall and winter months are witnessing more and more suffering, more and more deaths. Hospitals are becoming overwhelmed, intensive care units innundated, front-line health care workers exhausted.

Clearly, this is not the time to relax. This is not the time to throw in the towel.

Yes, we’re all growing tired of the isolation, the inability to enjoy those many activities we used to take for granted. Shopping. Dining out.

Gathering with friends. Attending church. Going to school.

We’re not accustomed to this. This is hard!

Back in the spring, when all this was still fairly new, I found myself thinking, for some unknown reason, of someone I’d not thought about in a very long time. I found myself thinking of Anne Frank, a young teenage girl hiding away with her family and a few others, seven in all, in an attic. For how long? Over 2 years, 761 days in fact (I looked it up).

Speaking in hushed voices. Depending entirely on the kindness and courage of others for daily survival. Worried every minute, every hour, of being discovered, and captured, and killed.

And then, from that story, I found my mind shifting to other stories, to other scenarios. Stories of holocaust(s). Of genocide. Of war. Of famine.

Of migrations and refugee camps.

But those stories are different. They happen out there, over there, to someone else. To them. Not to me. Not to us.

And when I think all this, thoughts such as these, I find myself humbled, even embarrassed.

Humbled because I realize that for thousands of years countless millions have had to endure events and tragedies immeasurably and horrendously more painful and difficult than anything I’ve had to go through.

Embarrassed because I, having not (yet) lost anyone close to me to the pandemic, allow myself to get upset by minor inconveniences.

What’s my point?

My point is this: that there is a very real and growing emotional toll to all this, to COVID. As the months unfold, I hear more and more of my patients expressing feelings of sadness and frustration, of helplessness and hopelessness. I hear depression.

As the months unfold, I hear more and more of my patients expressing feelings of increased irritability and agitation, of life being out of control. I hear anxiety.

ADVERTORIAL

Add to all of this our dangerously toxic and divisive socio-political climate of anger and hatred, and we find ourselves facing a veritable tsunami of emotion that, if we’re not careful, can easily engulf us.

Is there hope? Of course! There’s always hope.

There are six things we can do to help ourselves emotionally.

1 DON'T ISOLATE

First, avoid isolation. Distancing doesn’t mean isolating.

Call family members. Reconnect with old friends. Write a letter (remember letters) to someone who might just enjoy a blast from the past.

2 JOURNAL

Next, start a gratitude journal. Start making a list of the things for which you’re grateful. In a day when it’s so easy to focus on the bad and the hard and the negative, intentionally take time to focus on, and list, the good, the happy, the funny, the positive.

3 MOVE YOUR BODY DAILY

Third, be physically active (but not at the gym, not yet).

Set aside time every day for intentional physical activity.

Put it on your daily to-do list. Schedule it in your calendar.

It can be anything, but it has to be something. Walk around the house, inside or outside. Go up and down the stairs several times. If you have exercise equipment, use it.

Stretch. Do yoga. Practice pilates. Move!

4 CATCH SOME ZZZ'S

Fourth, sleep. Make it a priority to get adequate sleep.

It’s impossible to feel well emotionally when you’re sleep deprived.

5 SEEK HELP WHEN NEEDED

Fifth, If you need help, ask for it. If you need to speak with a professional counselor, don’t put it off. Working with an appropriately trained, licensed, well-qualified, experienced therapist can be extremely beneficial.

Stephen P. Elliott, M.D. Living with Intention, INC 11979 Fishers Crossing Drive Fishers, IN 46038 317-863-5888 LivingWithIntention.biz

So, that’s where we are. In for the long haul.

At the eve of a dark winter. But we’re not without hope. Not without a glimmer of light.

Hope in the form of vaccines. Hope in the form of improved treatments. Hope in the form of our own human capacity for endurance, resilience, mutual support, and compassion. Hope in the form of accepting and embracing, ever and always, the simple admonition to, “Stay calm, and carry on.”

6 SPEAK WITH YOUR PHYSICIAN

Lastly, if you need to, speak with your physician, too.

There’s a physiological, physical aspect to emotional health and well-being, too. Emotions are regulated, at least in large part, by tiny chemical messengers called neurotransmitters like Serotonin, GABA, Dopamine, and so on. Too little Serotonin can trigger feelings of depression.

To much Dopamine? Agitation and anxiety. To little GABA? Anxiety and restlessness. And so on. When things are out of balance, bad things happen.

Encouragingly, these neurotransmitters can be measured, and, once measured, adjusted and regulated using any of a number of natural nutrients.

Stephen P. Elliott M.D. practices Functional and Integrative Medicine at Living With Intention, Inc. For more information call 317-863-5888 or visit us at www.livingwithintention.biz and www.lwimedtherm.com.

EXPERT ADVICE

NEW YEAR, NEW LIFE 10 WAYS TO FIND STRENGTH BEFORE DIVORCE The last year has provided us with an opportunity to reflect on what’s important in life.

We can all agree that increased happiness and improved quality of life are two goals for which we all aim. Sometimes, improving our happiness and quality of life include accepting the fact that, in order to be our best, we need to let go of blaming someone else for our discontentment and take charge of our lives.

It’s a big step to acknowledge that someone with whom you’ve built a life and family may have different aspirations for the future. Yet you and your partner may see the next chapters of your lives differently and come to realize that it’s best for all involved if you transition into those future chapters independently.

If you’re considering divorce in 2021, know that the process can be emotionally and physically demanding. It will affect every aspect of your life. The best way to navigate through a divorce is one step at a time. Here are 10 steps to put yourself in a position of strength.

1

BUILD A SUPPORT TEAM. Before you do anything else, call upon and build your team — a network of professionals, friends and advisors to support you in the various areas of your life. Rely on your team for expertise, support and assurance. Choose team members who are strong and willing to act in their roles. Your team should include an attorney, a CPA, a therapist, a technology expert and a friend who will be honest with you and tell you what you need to hear rather than what you want to hear. Rely on each individual for the skills and talents he or she brings to the team. Don’t expect your attorney to act as your therapist and your therapist to act as your friend.

2

ROUND UP ESSENTIAL INFORMATION. Ensure that you have access to all of your information. This includes anything related to your household, finances, income and business. Locate contracts, insurance policies, systems, records and account balances regarding any account, asset, entitlement or obligation of you, your spouse, your children. To access this information, you’ll need to know where the information and records are located physically and electronically. Record login information, passwords and how they may be changed, as well as any contract or agreement creating legal entitlement.

Stay current on all of your asset and debt information, account numbers, location, value and how to access the info.

3

PLAN FOR YOUR CHILDREN. Gather information on your children’s needs and friends. Know how to ascertain their medical, educational and financial information; important documents such as passports, individual education plans, prescriptions, grades and any other information necessary to promote their wellbeing.

THE BEST WAY TO NAVIGATE THROUGH A DIVORCE IS ONE STEP AT A TIME. LESLIE CRAIG HENDERZAHS

4

DOCUMENT WHAT YOU FIND. Obtain copies or screenshots reflecting account balances of assets or debts, tax returns for the past three years, photographs of valuables such as jewelry, household goods, collections, guns, tools, or other items which may not have an easily ascertained value. Ascertain values for vehicles by knowing the mileage, year, make, model and special equipment.

5

MAKE A LIST. Record all assets, debts, entitlements and inheritance including property owned with others, memberships, tax and other refunds or carryovers, rewards, points and other perks.

6

PLAN AHEAD FINANCIALLY. Create a reserve fund by tucking away as much money as possible. You may also arrange to borrow money from a friend or relative should your spouse deny you access to accounts or credit cards.

7

OPEN SEPARATE ACCOUNTS. Open a separate checking, savings and credit card accounts and begin to establish credit. Secure your own telephone, email and post office box to which only you have access and to which your attorney can provide you confidential information. Keep in mind phones, tablets or other devices on a shared plan will have itemized billings reflecting the time, date and duration of each call — including Facetime calls and texts sent and received.

ADVERTORIAL

Leslie Craig Henderzahs PARTNER/OWNER Church Church Hittle & Antrim Attorneys at Law 2 N. 9th Street Noblesville In 46060 10765 Lantern Road, Suite 201 Fishers, IN 46038 317.773.2190 cchalaw.com

8

SIGN OFF ON SOCIAL MEDIA. Disengage, clean up or remove social media accounts and the ability of anyone to track your locations, accounts, communications or mail.

9

PLAN YOUR FINANCIAL FUTURE. Obtain a free current credit report and add a financial advisor to your team.

10

THINK THROUGH HOUSING. Explore your ability to obtain a new residence, refinance the marital residence or identify a suitable place to live.

Once you’ve prepared your team and tools, the next step is to engage your sharp and experienced lawyer, who can share your goals and create timelines to move forward at a rate that aligns with the demands of your life, the ages of your children and the state of your assets, liabilities and budget.

Divorce is never easy, but with these steps and tools, you’ll enter the challenge with strength and support.

NEED HELP BUILDING YOUR SUPPORT TEAM? Church Church Hittle and Antrim can help provide you with competent, trusted attorneys and resources in a variety of disciplines.

CRAFTER: Nicole Keller PATTERN: Adapted from #041 Let’s Stay Home SHOP: ThatStitchShop, Etsy.com

Story and styling by Nicole Keller + Photos by Chris Whonsetler

IT’S NOT YOUR NANA’S KNITTING ANYMORE. TODAY’S NEEDLE ARTS DELIGHT WITH MODERN SASS AND THE OLD-FASHIONED BENEFIT OF SOOTHING YOUR SOUL.

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When our grammies and bubbes picked up their needles and hooks, wool was horribly scratchy, acrylic was awful and the only things to stitch were ABC-123 samplers (yawn). Not anymore.

The stitching arts have gained some serious sass.

Now there are beads and baubles, snarky feminist sayings and assertive needle minders that implore the stitcher to stab something 1,000 times. Yarn is so much softer and might have been spun and hand-dyed by the fiber artist down the street. Plus, all this time hibernating at home has crafty types of every age itching to make something, whether it’s warm to wear, a textured piece to hang on the wall or a creation to share with a new generation of needleworkers.

Sew social

Marina Turner, co-owner of The Black Sheep Yarn & Fiber Arts in Noblesville, sees Pinterest and other social media outlets as a driving force in stitching’s evolution. “People see things and want things they can’t buy, so they have to learn to make them,” she said. “There’s also a lot of nostalgia to ‘finish the projects my grandma started.’

Some people follow celebrity knitters, and specific knit designers like Andrea Mowry have become super popular.”

Marina and her mother, shop co-owner Karen King, took to Facebook to reach other stitchers when the world slowed down. Now, when the store is open, they film live at 11 a.m. It’s like sharing coffee and advice every morning with your friendly neighborhood knitting experts. “We’ve gotten a crazy-lot of engagement.

People we don’t know stop us at the store and say, ‘I love your videos,’” Marina said.

“Now is the perfect time to pick up something new like knitting.”

Create to meditate Every sweater

started with one stitch.

Try not to worry too much and give yourself the grace to learn.

MARCIA STONE

42 kitindy.com

The Indianapolis Art Center has just added Introduction to Knitting to the alreadyextensive fiber arts program of sewing, crochet, embroidery, spinning and weaving. “We’re trying to find things that we think people will find relaxing and help them to have fun and be productive since time is now so expansive at home,”

said artist teacher Marcia Stone. “I like to think of fiber arts as a form of meditation — except you get a product at the end.”

At the Art Center, stitching “can be as wild or as traditional as you want it to be,” said Marcia, whose students include a 13-year-old girl who dyes and spins her own yarn using the center’s natural-dye garden and reenactors who want to experience crafts in a historically accurate way.

Vicki Cooper of Persnickety Stitchers in Zionsville sees men and women, teens to the over-70s crowd, plus engineers and surgeons used to fine details, so the intricate designs of needlework appeal to them.

“They find stress relief in the rhythmic, soothing nature of repetitive motion,” Vicki said. “When you calm down doing something you enjoy, it automatically lowers your blood pressure and raises your endorphins.”

Whatever your medium, remember Marcia’s advice, gathered from 50 years of knitting and more than 30 of teaching: “Every sweater started with one stitch. Just take it a day at a time,” she said. “Relax and enjoy and try not to worry too much about the end. There will be mistakes.

I call them design features.

Give yourself the grace to learn.”

Loop and learn Ready to pick up your needle or hook? First, some definitions:

KNITTING: Creating flat fabric from yarn using two, preferably wooden, needles.

“It’s just tying a knot with a stick,” said Karen King, co-owner of The Black Sheep Yarn & Fiber Arts in Noblesville.

CROCHET: Creating fabric from yarn, but the stitches are more three-dimensional and you work with only a hook.

EMBROIDERY: Embellishing fabric using a sewing-like needle and floss or ribbon with a variety of stitches.

CROSS STITCH: Sewing Xs and stitches from the embroidery realm using embroidery floss, usually on an open-weave fabric called Aida but also on evenweave and linen fabrics; the Xs come together to make an image or saying.

NEEDLEPOINT: Embroidering on a stiff canvas using many types of stitches to follow a painted or counted design.

knitting

CRAFTER: Marina Turner YARN: Mirasol Ushya, 98% Merino wool and 2% polyamide, in Mallard SHOP: The Black Sheep Yarn & Fiber Arts, Noblesville

yes to yarn BEST BEGINNING If you’re going to knit, go big, said Marcia Stone, who leads the Introduction to Knitting class at the Indianapolis Art Center. “With big yarn and big needles, you can knit something up like a shawl and get gratification really quickly. I like to see people be happy in their learning experience. They’ve got something good out of it to keep or give as a gift and they’re so proud of themselves.” Her favorite references? Big Knitting by Sophie Britten and The Knitting Answer Book by Margaret Radcliffe. Once you’ve taken Marcia’s class, “you’ll be able to make whatever you want!

We give you the keys to the knitting kingdom.”

SKILLS STRETCH

MARCIA STONE Artist Teacher, Indianapolis Art Center Register now for spring sessions. Two-hour Make It Take It classes happen all the time. Visit indplsartcenter.org/textile_arts for the schedule.

PHOTO BY MARK MCCULLOUGH

Know your way around knitting? You can expand your skills exponentially.

Marcia recommends exploring knit designers online and taking classes like the Art Center’s Sheep to Shawl, where you start with a sheep’s fleece, spin and dye your own yarn, then knit or weave with it. “Knit designers like Kaffe Fassett look at colors and patterns in nature and create incredible knitting patterns with them. He’s taken it to an art form like painting,” she said.

“Some designers push the edge of the envelope with color, texture, baubles, crazy stitches, wearables, wall hangings — I’ve even had potters include knitting in their pots. There’s always a next thing.”

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crochet

CRAFTER: Karen King YARN: Petty AF, the shop’s 2020 color of the year, 100% extra fine superwash Merino wool, hand-dyed in Indianapolis

by Helena Bristow of Oink Pigments, oinkpigments.com SHOP: The Black Sheep Yarn & Fiber Arts, Noblesville

hook work BEST BEGINNING

Having the correct materials for crochet is crucial. “Get a mediumsized hook and natural yarn that doesn’t split,” Karen King, co-owner of The Black Sheep Yarn & Fiber Arts, said. “Most people start on a hook that’s too small for the yarn. Use light colors so it’s easier to see the parts of the stitches and use stitch markers for the ends of the rows — many people get confused on where the end of the row is and end up with a wavy scarf.”

SKILLS STRETCH Covered the crochet basics?

Karen said don’t be afraid to try something new. “There’s cables, lace, colorwork…. I’ve jumped into 3D projects that were too hard for me, but I just pull the yarn out and start over. It’s not like it’s fabric where you’re making a cut,” she said.

44 kitindy.com

KAREN KING (LEFT) AND MARINA TURNER (RIGHT) Co-owners, The Black Sheep Yarn & Fiber Arts, Noblesville One-on-one classes Fridays; open stitching and project advice on Saturdays. Call 317900-7117 for an appointment.

needlepoint

on point

BEST BEGINNING

Start small with needlepoint or cross stitch, said Vicki Cooper, owner of Persnickety Stitchers in Noblesville. “There are some inexpensive kits you can pick up and they’ll at least give you a taste of the different crafts — you can tell if you enjoy the process easily and if you like it, find a local store to help you out. A lot of people start with one, try another, go back or do both — it’s whatever you prefer.”

CRAFTER: Vicki Cooper PATTERN: Jamaica (at right) SHOP: Persnickety Stitchers, Zionsville

PHOTO BY NICOLE KELLER

VICKI COOPER Owner, Persnickety Stitchers, Zionsville Visit persnicketystitchers.com for classes to come. Find online classes at The Embroiderer’s Guild of America, Indianapolis Chapter, at ega-glr.org/inindy, and The American Needlepoint Guild at needlepoint.org.

SKILLS STRETCH Need more on needleworking? Vicki suggests, in the absence of her store’s in-person classes, going online.

“To help expand your skills and find ideas and projects, sign up for the Embroiderer’s Guild of America or the American Needlepoint Guild — dues are reasonable and both have cyber chapters and an extensive library of stitches and projects and do classes through Zoom.” She also recommends Floss Tube, which has “umpteen-zillion cross stitch videos. There are Facebook groups for just about anything,” she added. “I like Needlepoint Nation; they answer all sorts of questions.”

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CRAFTY IN

C CRAFT

CARMEL Chase away the winter gloom by taking an art class from one of Carmel’s esteemed studios. From pottery throwing to oil painting to mosaic making, there are a variety of ways to bring color into these gray months and learn a new skill along the way.

KIT

THE ART LAB

254 Veterans Way, 317-340-3469, artlabindy.com

What doesn’t The Art Lab offer? From children’s pottery and adult watercolor to Zoom parties and classes for Girl Scouts to mosaics and jewelry, there’s something for everyone.

Beginner-friendly classes are held at the Cat Theatre and are limited to 12 people, which gives instructors more one-on-one time and allows for physical distancing. The Art Lab also requires masks and asks that you call ahead to reserve a spot. Do you feel

UPCOMING CLASSES AT THE ART LAB: Characters of Harry Potter January 17, for children, $75 Introduction to Mosaics January 31, for adults, $100 Zoom Parties Up to 100 guests for one hour, $90

THE ART LAB offers a variety of classes from pottery (top) to painting (right) and even holds virtual zoom classes so you can safely create at home.

46 kitindy.com

more comfortable staying home? Ask Maren Bell, who opened the Lab in 2012, about her Zoom classes!

Bell has instructed classes both locally and nationally, and even held a class for the docents of The Metropolitan Museum of Art. Bell’s love of teaching is often found in the little things; “it’s kids and adults making art for the first time. It’s beautiful to see their self-confidence grow and feel proud at the end of class.”

THE ART STUDIO OF CARMEL 30 N. Range Line Road, 317-213-7572, theartstudioofcarmel.com

THE ART STUDIO OF CARMEL (below) has something for everyone with children’s classes and painting for adults. MOSAICS GARDEN BY NANCY KEATING is the place to go for a little art therapy (at right).

There is no doubting the experience of the three instructors at The Art Studio of Carmel who hold master’s degrees and collectively have decades of teaching experience and now host a number of classes for both children and adults. On Wednesdays, children can attend afterschool classes while adults learn to oil paint in the evening.

Beginners usually start off with a small still-life painting but are encouraged to return weekly to hone their skills and work on a larger piece. On Thursdays, adults can take oil, watercolor and mixed media classes, and on Saturdays, classes are offered for every age.

The classes are open to all skill levels but limited to 10 people, allowing the instructors to create a personal relationship with each student. “I’ll show you 8-10 watercolor techniques, and have you paint a little with each,” says instructor Celestine Donnelly. “Once you’ve learned all of those techniques, I’ll ask you which ones you like, and encourage you to keep trying those.”

UPCOMING CLASSES AT THE ART STUDIO OF CARMEL: Children’s classes Wednesdays, 3:30 – 4:30 p.m.

Adult oil painting Wednesdays, 5 – 8 p.m.

Adult oil painting Thursdays, 10 a.m. – noon Adult watercolor/mixed media Thursdays, 1 – 3 p.m.

Adult/teen watercolor/mixed media Saturdays, 10 a.m. - noon Children’s classes Saturdays, 1 – 2:30 p.m.

PHOTO TAKEN IN 2018

MOSAICS GARDEN BY NANCY KEATING

111 W. Main Street, Suite 140, 317-501-4652, mosaicsgarden.com

Nancy Keating is a contemporary mosaic artist who believes everyone is creative. “Your creativity may just be different from what others do,” she says. “Art is a version of therapy. It’s a mindful, relaxing thing to do. Especially when you get to use your hands.” And hands-on is exactly what Keating’s workshops are. While most are designed for beginners, intermediate levels are welcome as well. Participants typically attend three to five sessions of three hours, and the class price includes all materials. However, it’s Keating’s “At Home Anytime” kits that steal the show.

The take-home kits include sponges, grout, adhesive, and pre-cut glass — everything you need to create your very own mandala, picture frame or mirror.

Keating plans to release a peace sign kit and sunflower kit this winter and has even made how-to videos for each of the kits on her website. Interested in an in-person class? Try the Mosaics, Mandalas & Wine Class. It’s designed for beginners and costs $66 (all-inclusive).

Class size is currently limited to seven students and, like Keating’s workshops, require a mask. “You’re not required to have wine, though,” Keating says with a laugh. “I mean, you are working with sharp glass.”