Lake Norman Woman Magazine - August 2018

got the

ibrew e special annual issu

flu?

LKN Has a Cure! pg. 50

Parent Survival Guide to

Teenage Boys pg. 16

Change Your featuring KEVIN SULLIVAN OF INFINITE WEALTH ADVISORS, LLC

stride,

Change Your

life

pg. 56

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AUGUST 2018 |

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STAFF

.

PUBLISHER DANA NIETERS

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

L A K E

N O R M A N V O L U M E

X I I

from

,

woman N U M B E R

THE PUBLISHER

EDITOR LESLIE OGLE

leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE STEPHANIE SULLIVAN

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE MICHELE SCHUERMANN michele@lakenormanwoman.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE JESSICA JONES

jessica@lakenormanwoman.com

ART DIRECTOR CHELSEA BREN

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGED BY CAROLINA CONSULT, LLC

AU GUST CO N T RI BU TO RS :

Kate Greene; Melissa Hartwick; Antionette Kerr; Michelle Love; Dr. Wissam Nadra; Allan Purtill

C O N TAC T U S : PO Box 1000 | Cornelius, NC | 28031

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ONE OF THE MOST COMMON

Sweep me up and tell me I’d look hot complaints marriage counselors even in a potato sack!” But my husband hear from husbands is that the doesn’t speak Woman, so instead he communication style of women is too answered, “Those pants are just fine, it’s complicated; that everything their wife your hips that make your hips look big.” says seems to have a deeper meaning or Before you get the torches no meaning at all. And the and pitchforks out, let me most frequent complaint This special annual explain. My husband was from wives? Yep, you guessed issue of LKN speaking Man. And in that Woman is all it…they feel their husbands about MEN. An language, humor can be a don’t say what they mean enthusiastic search great way to reduce tension and so, likewise, they have by our editorial and put things in perspective. no idea what their spouse team unveiled some As all the men who are really wants. exciting men, each reading this already know, he of whom is following Even Stephen Hawking, one wasn’t saying my hips are as his own unique of the most brilliant minds wide as Texas, he was saying, passion, and some of modern times, said that “Relax! We all gain weight fantastic husbands women—not the laws of during the holidays. What’s who, thanks to our quantum gravity or string readers’ suggestions, important is that we enjoy theory—were the one mystery get a much-deserved dinner together.” Of course, pat on the back! of the universe he was sure that isn’t what I understood he would never solve. Author him to say at the time, and and relationship counselor John Gray did the sign language I replied to him with come up with a plausible explanation, was anything but unclear. though, claiming that men are from Mars Because of our language barriers, and women are from Venus. And while sometimes what we think we said isn’t I’m aware that men and women aren’t what he heard, and vice-versa. Wouldn’t from different planets, in my 52 years here it be helpful if we were taught to speak on Earth, I have discovered that men and each other’s language in high school, women are just different, especially in the along with Spanish or French? Or maybe way they communicate.

Rosetta Stone will develop a language Let me paint you a picture from my own program to teach us what our spouses are life. A few months ago, I was getting really saying. Or, could dressed to go out to dinner when my it be that this age-old husband peeked into the bedroom to ask dilemma simply has no what was taking so long. A discarded solution? After all, if pile of clothes lay on the floor beside me, Hawking, a scientist all of which I had tried on and cast aside. who plumbed the Frustrated, I asked his opinion of the deepest conundrums outfit I had on at that moment: “I can’t of the cosmos, find anything that looks good on me couldn’t figure out the today,” I explained. “I think I must have opposite sex, what hope put on some weight over the holidays. is there for the rest What do you think about these pants… of us? do they make my hips look big?”

As all you ladies who are reading this already know, I didn’t want his opinion on my hips. What I was really saying to him was, “Convince me I’m wrong.

Dana DANA NIETERS PUBLISHER

Contac t Dana via e -mail at dana@lakenormanwoman.com

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contents w

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AUGUST 2018

LKN MEN!

12

Fantastic Husbands

22

2018 LKN MEN!

24

Dr. Peter McIlveen & Thomas McIlveen

26

Dr. Jean-Pierre Riou

28

Rocky Mehta

32

Kevin Sullivan

33

Dr. Nathan Ellis

34

Dr. Michael Foran & Dr. Michael Coleman

36

Brad Roche

38

Dr. Stephen Giordano

in every issue 40 42

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S C E N E WI T H L KNW

5 THI N GS TO D O I N AU G U ST

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LKN'S HOPPING CRAFT BEER SCENE!

SPECIAL THANKS Carolina Grace, docked at Kings Point Marina, provided the perfect backdrops for our 2018 LKN Men! photo shoot.

the

ever

cutest LKN

PET

FAMILY 16 Raising Boys

WE HAVE A WINNER!

Don’t miss the September issue of Lake Norman Woman where we’ll reveal the winner of our Cutest Pet Contest!

18

Back To School Tips For Exceptional Children With Special Needs

HOME 46 6 Things Trained Pros Know About Cleaning

12

p

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48

10 CELL PHONE ETIQUETTE TIPS

FAN TAS TIC HU SBA ND S

KITCHEN 54 It's Nutty!

SELF 44 Get Outta Town!

48

10 Cell Phone Etiquette Tips

50

LKN's Hopping Craft Beer Scene!

52

Have You Caught The Brew Flu?!

56

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT: Be Willing To Change Your Stride

{

O N THE C OVER:

K E VI N SUL LIVAN OF I N F I N ITE WEALT H ADVISO RS, LLC PH OTO G R A PH Y BY:

CHE LSEA BREN

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c i t s a fant

S D N A B HUS

WE HAVE PROOF! Chivalry and romance aren’t dead—they’re alive and well, right here in Lake Norman. We asked you to tell us about your fantastic husbands, and you responded with nominating essays that were heartfelt, thoughtful, and appreciative. We wish all our couples many more years of wedded bliss!

Jeffrey & Jillian Mason

“Jeff and I both grew up in Mooresville. He attended Mooresville High School and I went to Lake Norman High, so we were cross-town rivals; although we didn’t know each other until we met at East Carolina University. We dated through college, got married this past November, and bought our first house here in Mooresville. Jeff has a busy job as a project manager for K-Town Roofing, based out of Concord, yet he still finds the time to cook all of our delicious (and healthy) meals.

He even supports my latest kick of going vegetarian. Jeff is my rock and I don’t know what I would do without him through this adventure we call life!”

Todd & Colleen Russo “Todd is the assistant principal at Lakeshore Elementary School. While he is outstanding at his job, constantly helping others, being available to his staff, playing guitar and doing magic tricks for his students, he is an even better husband and person. He works hard from the minute he gets home, working on our fixer-upper home, mowing our yard and those of others too (out of the kindness of his heart), making meals, and being the best dad ever! He is patient. He loves me unconditionally. He offers me the support I need to also be a working professional and be confident our home and kids are taken care of. He is the love of my life and I would shout it from the mountaintops!”

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David Witherspoon & Kim Mason (to be married Sept. 22)

“I was at Duckworth’s with friends when I noticed a guy looking at me, so I went over and asked him if he was staring at me. He laughed and said, “Yes,” and we have been together ever since. I had moved to the area with my two teenagers following my divorce, and David, who had no kids of his own, came into our lives with open arms. My teenagers, however, were not as enthusiastic. But David never gave up with them. He studied their sport, BMX, and became their biggest fan. And though it took some time, my kids have fallen in love with him. There is so much more I could say—I have had so many challenges— but he has never left my side.”

Fred & Angela Ogrim “My husband, Fred, is amazing, selfless, and handsome. When our son, Gavin, was born, we were told he wouldn’t live through the night because of a lack of oxygen during the delivery. He not only lived through the night, but we recently celebrated his 7th birthday.

Every day is a struggle with Gavin, but Fred assures me that all will be okay, even when I don’t know how it will be some days. He stays up with Gavin at night so that I can sleep and be able to get our 8-year-old daughter to school in the mornings; he helps teach Gavin to try to walk and maybe talk.

And he does it all with grace and a smile!”

Kris & Kim Manley “While vacationing in the Virgin Islands, I met Kris, this gorgeous guy who lived on a boat. For two weeks, he showed me around and took me sailing. When I returned to California, I was love sick, so much so I eventually quit my job and returned to the islands. We’ve been together ever since. As amazing as our early story is, our marriage has had some hurdles. We have struggled (unsuccessfully) to have a family, enduring endless rounds of IVF treatments, miscarriages, and broken hearts. He’s been there in every possible way to make the process more bearable, whether it’s giving me space, giving me junk food, or wiping away tears. He really is the most supportive, thoughtful, conscientious, interesting, hilarious, and fun person I know.”

Mike & Heather Campbell “Mike is an amazing husband and my godsend. I have no doubt he would do anything in the world for me— and anyone else in the world, too. One of the things I love most about him is his faith. Even though he works selflessly six or seven days a week, he makes sure we attend church on Sundays. The little things we do for each other are the best. For instance, he is the oldfashioned guy who opens doors for me and holds my hand. He sends me texts just to say “I love you.” This past Valentine’s Day, he spread the celebration out over two weeks, leaving me notes and gifts. But best of all, he is my rock and I know he will always have my back.”

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fantastic

S DS AND BAN SB US HU H

Mike & Yolanda Crowley “Mike is the best husband ever. He has worked very hard to make sure his family will always be taken care of. For example, he saved and sacrificed for years to send his daughter to college. He is also chivalrous, even after nine years of marriage. He supports me in everything I do (starting a business, the half marathons and triathlons I participate in, and CrossFit). He is the most hilarious person I’ve ever met, making me laugh every day; he’s extremely intelligent; and he is an incredibly skilled handyman (he even made me a desk for my home office). What it really comes down to, though, is that Mike is the best person for me, and I consider myself one lucky lady to be his wife.”

Neil & Kristy Serdinsky “Neil is a kind, caring, and compassionate husband.

Almost seven years ago we blended our families together to create one beautiful (and sometimes a bit crazy) family. He has loved my children as his own from day one. Through the good and the bad, he has always been by my side. He embraces my quirky personality and finds me most attractive with no make-up, an oversized sweatshirt, PJ bottoms, and mismatched socks. He never complains about my use of the electric blanket, even in the summer! He encourages me and supports me daily. His job can be quite demanding and high stress at times, but still, he finds time to do the laundry, dishes, and straighten the house. I definitely have an amazing husband!”

Ray Armini & Brandy Reece “My amazing husband, Ray Armini, is the COO of The Peninsula Club, a devoted family guy, a great friend, and my forever love. We love spending time together— whether it’s cheering on the South Carolina Gamecocks or our Carolina Panthers, dining out, or traveling. We are also passionate about raising money for the Leukemia & Lymphoma Society. This cause is near and dear to our hearts because Ray’s brother, Nick, passed away from this cancer in 2015. Ray was Nick’s stem cell transplant donor twice. You don’t need to spend much time with Ray, though, to realize how well he relates to everyone he meets. He has a quiet confidence that acts as a magnet for our family and friends.”

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RAISING BOYS

By Dr. Wissam Nadra

are a conundrum— whether boys or girls—and raising them is no easy feat by any stretch of the imagination. As a practicing pediatrician, I have found that teenage girls tend to be more expressive and open about their feelings when asked or approached.

This is in stark contrast to their male peers who are often reserved about themselves and their emotions.

TEENAGERS IN GENERAL

As you read this, some of you may be thinking that I’m taking a traditional view of gender stereotypes, which may be true. However, whether we choose to admit it or not, society encourages girls to “emote” yet frowns upon boys when they do so. As a result, we find that most of our young men strive to live up to what people expect of them.

Below, are some tips that we can all use to help us get to know our teenage boy(s) better:

Talk to him like an equal allowing him to express his opinion about his likes and dislikes.

Get to know his friends … and their parents! The old adage of “you are who you hang out with” rings true.

Respect his space and give him his privacy while setting ground rules and outlining boundaries. If he doesn’t want to discuss an issue, let it be.

Choose your battles.

Assign responsibilities for him. Start out with simple chores at home that he would do anyway and are pleasurable for him. Do not impose menial tasks on him.

Believe in him and be his biggest fan and supporter.

Be aware of who he is as a young man; if he changes his attitude, choice of friends, who he hangs out with, or his grades start slipping, this could be a warning sign of self-destructive behaviors, and a doctor visit or counseling may be in order.

Be an example for him.

This tip is mainly for dads, uncles, and grandfathers.

They will model male adult family behaviors, especially when it comes to respecting women that are in their lives. Be aware of what you say and what you do at all times. Period.

Avoid critiquing his appearance such as hair, clothing, etc. So what if he has long hair? As long as he is not hurting himself or someone else, let him go through his own growth process.

Above all, love, love, love him.

Let him know that it is not “girly” to cry if he feels bad or sad. It takes a real man to express his emotions.

© Wave Break Media Ltd | Dreamstime.com

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Wissam E. Nadra, MD, FAAP, AIHM, is the president and clinical director at Lakeshore Pediatric Center in Denver. He is a boardcertified pediatrician, also certified in integrative medicine. For more information, visit www.lakeshorepediatric.com, or call 704.489.8401.

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family

Lay out school clothes the night before. Make sure everything “feels” right and itchy tags are removed, etc. to avoid delays in the morning and missed school buses! Before the bus arrives, have your child do some activities to work out some of the wiggles and extra energy. Do jumping jacks, run laps around the house, and do stretches.

BACK T O

tips exceptional

SCH OOL FOR

CHILD R E N WI T H

special needs By: Melissa Hartwick

G O I N G B A C K TO S C H O O L can be a stressful time for any kid, but especially so for children with special needs. On top of the usual lists of school supplies, there are questions about what sensory supports will work for your child, what the school will allow into the classroom, and how to help your kid manage their sensory needs throughout the long school day. Here are some ideas to make your school transition a bit easier for you both—

Melissa Hartwick is the founder, owner, and president of Lifetime Sensory Solutions. As a mother to a specialneeds daughter, Melissa designs custom, weighted blankets and can be reached via their website at www.lifetimesensory.com.

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Get approval to tie an exercise band between the legs of your child’s desk chair, enabling them to fidget with it using their feet during class time. This is an excellent way to give your child a physical outlet while being almost unnoticeable to the rest of the classroom, and most teachers are fine with it.

Talk with your child’s teacher about how your child can let them know if she is having a hard time or needs a break. My daughter’s teacher gave her a red paper to place on her desk as a nonverbal signal she needed help.

Some children prefer rubber bracelets with a green side and a red side, enabling them to flip colors as needed to signal a need for help or a break.

Hold a meeting with your school’s special education team and see if you can write a “sensory corner” or other sensory supports into your child’s IEP (Individualized Education Program). I did this for my daughter, and I brought a beanbag and weighted blanket to the school for her to set up in the corner of her special ed classroom—where she was able to go as needed to help herself calm down. The beanbag gave her a cozy place to sit away from the stress of the group, while the weighted blanket helped calm her nervous system down. If your child is in an integrated or general ed classroom, weighted lap pads can also be used while sitting at the desk to provide a similar calming effect.

When your child arrives home, have a sensory area where they can calm down after a long school day. Try water beads, a small trampoline or jump ropes, kinetic sand, a rice box, fidgets, or a weighted blanket. Another fun idea is to squish a bunch of beads into a handful of playdough and let your child try to work the beads back out. This is great for both focusing and sensory stimulation. Be careful to supervise this activity around younger children.

Most of all, remember you are not alone. Find parents in similar situations and share experiences. You may find some ideas you haven’t thought of, or even some new friends.

Here’s to a great school year!

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LKN

men!

The LKN men featured in this special annual issue are making their mark on our community with their ideas, energy, and passion!

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dr. peter

McIlveen North carolina weight & wellness

AGE: 56 HOUSEHOLD: Wife Lucy;

Teacup Yorkies Molly and Sophie LKN TOWN: Cornelius

Dr. Peter McIlveen and son Thomas are the father-son duo of North Carolina Weight & Wellness, with offices in Elkin and Cornelius. The staff at the wellness center work diligently to give their patients customized medical services—including primary care, gynecology, results-driven weight loss, laser therapies, and aesthetics.

Originally from Connecticut, Dr. Peter McIlveen graduated from Duke University and has been caring for patients for nearly 20 years. He is a dual boardcertified physician in obstetrics/gynecology and obesity medicine. “I was most inspired by my father who traveled from Ireland to the United States to pursue his dreams,” describes Dr. McIlveen. “Growing up, he taught me to be hard working, compassionate, and patient. Most importantly,” he adds, “I learned the art of truly listening to people.” These qualities remain the foundation of his medical practice today, and being in private practice allows him to spend more time listening to his patients’ concerns and understanding their goals.

“The absolute best day of my life happened when I was a senior in high school,” admits Dr. McIlveen.

He met a junior named Lucy who went to a different school. The two immediately connected. “Although we attended different colleges many states apart, we continued to grow closer,” smiles Dr. McIlveen. He and Lucy have been married for more than 33 years and have three sons: Steven, 28, and 24-year-old twins, Thomas and Christopher. “I’m sensitive to the fact that my wife is surrounded by us men, so I have learned to balance enjoying sports with attending musical theater with Lucy,” acknowledges Dr. McIlveen.

Passionate about helping make a positive change in his patients’ lives, Dr. McIlveen states: “Nothing is more rewarding than helping someone become healthier, watching them come off of medications, seeing relief of symptoms and the resulting joy they experience!” His patients’ smiles and laughter are his daily motivation. “I think Thomas and I have both found that our passion is helping others achieve optimum health, wellness, and beauty,” he says.

thomas

McIlveen North carolina weight & wellness AGE: 24 LKN TOWN: Cornelius

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Dr. McIlveen’s son, Thomas, is the center’s director of business development and marketing. Thomas graduated from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill where he studied political science and entrepreneurship. “I come from a long line of entrepreneurs who started family businesses,” Thomas says. He enjoys working with his father, creating things, and finding new ways to solve everyday problems. The father and son team enjoy their March Madness alma mater rivalry, too. “I love it when the Tarheels beat Duke,” Thomas grins.

By: Michelle Love

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Dr. jean-pierre

Riou

riou plastic surgery center AGE: 55 HOUSEHOLD: Wife Lori; daughter

Jessica; son Justin LKN TOWN: Cornelius

Dr. Jean-Pierre (JP) Riou grew up in the Hell’s Kitchen neighborhood in New York City. Before becoming a doctor, he worked as a paramedic for NYC EMS, where he became interested in going further into the medical field. He later graduated from NYU Medical School and completed plastic surgery residency at Yale University.

During a school dance in the cafeteria of NYU School of Medicine in September of 1984, Dr. Riou met his soulmate, Dr. Lori Schneider. The two married and have two children: Jessica, 21, a junior at UNCC; and Justin, 16, a rising junior at Davidson Day School. Post medical training, the couple moved to Cornelius after falling in love with the Lake Norman area. “We love practicing medicine in the South,” he says, “where our patients are particularly friendly and appreciative.”

Dr. Riou’s parents immigrated from a small farm in France to New York City with only a middle-school education, without speaking English, and no money in their pockets. “My father, Marcel, borrowed $5 from a friend coming off of the boat to pay for a taxi,” describes Dr. Riou. His parents instilled in him a strong work ethic and moral values. Smiling, he says, “Despite such modest beginnings, they always had a positive attitude and appreciated life to the fullest.” His parents encouraged him throughout his long years of training, and often brought him food late at night during medical school and residency.

His father passed away seven years ago, but his mother, MarieLouise, now in her late 70s, spends most of her days cooking and caring for others.

“Being able to volunteer to help others also brings me great joy,” he grins. Dr. Riou has provided pediatric plastic surgery in Ecuador with Operation Smile, helps transport hundreds of bikes during the Christmas season to needy children with the Brawley Drafters Cycling Club’s Bikes for Tykes, and enjoys cooking and serving meals every month at the Mooresville Soup Kitchen. “I also enjoy volunteering for charity bike events (Mooresville Area Cyclists and Rocky River Road Club) that benefit the non-profit organizations in our area, particularly the Ada Jenkins Community Center,” he adds.

A strong sense of community is very important to the good doctor and his wife. “Lori and I have always felt passionate about the altruistic nature of providing healthcare to our community,” he explains. Dr. Riou has performed hundreds of mastectomy reconstructions at no cost to the patient. “We have specialized in breast cancer reconstruction and aesthetics for the past 24 years,” he says, “and we admire the strength of our patients as they go through their difficult journey with cancer.”

He and Lori (who is a board-certified doctor of neurology and owner of Lakeside Neurology in Cornelius) enjoy the family atmosphere of a small private practice, as opposed to the current trend towards large medical group consolidation … they feel they are better able to provide high-quality, personalized care to their patients, and they exemplify that each and every day.

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By: Michelle Love

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Business is good, but family means everything to Rocky Mehta. Rocky Mehta and his wife, Kim, own and operate West Penn Hardwoods, a major supplier of domestic and exotic hardwoods. As part of a worldwide woodworking network, their business travels take them to Mexico, Costa Rica, and Brazil as well as all over the globe—and the beautiful thing is that they can do it together!

In March 1995, Rocky and Kim leapt into the hardwood business with their first retail store. The two had met a few years earlier in New York where Rocky was working as a bartender. Born in India, Rocky was selected for a coaching position with YMCA’s Camp Sea Gull program while studying at Delhi University. He was planning to return to India for studies after the program. “I hadn’t planned on staying,” he admits. “But then I met my wife.” Rocky says he knew from the moment Kim first walked through the restaurant as a customer “that she was special.”

Married in 1993, the couple decided to move to the quaint town of Olean, New York, to be closer to family. Rocky left behind a career in hotel restaurant management because “working evenings and weekends kept me from seeing my wife and kids.” That’s when Kim’s father, a domestic lumber exporter, suggested a hardwood retail business.

In the beginning, the company offered only the standard domestics like red oak, white oak, cherry, ash, maple, walnut, and hickory but eventually branched out to exotic hardwoods.

The company prides itself on offering the largest variety of exotic woods in the entire USA. For over 21 years, the couple operated the business in Olean, but back-to back brutal winters and rising transportation costs inspired the Mehtas to make a life-changing announcement: they were moving their family, employees, and business to the South. They decided on North Carolina, not only because of the mild winters, but also because its strategic location allowed them to take advantage of a number of ports, including Charleston, Savannah, Miami, and Panama City.

The family settled in the Lake Norman area after purchasing a former furniture factory in Conover. In 2015, the Mehta family joined the Lake Norman community and purchased a lakeside home in Denver. Rocky, who says he hated New York winters, appreciates living in a place where you can enjoy being outdoors most of the year. Daughter Allison graduated from UNC Charlotte this past spring and is currently working for the family business; their other daughter, Priya, will be a junior at UNCC this fall, while son Abhi is looking forward to his senior year at East Lincoln High School.

rocky

Mehta

West Penn Hardwoods, Inc.

AGE: 52 HOUSEHOLD: Wife Kim and son Abhi LKN TOWN: Stanley

Their business requires some international travel, and the couple enjoys discovering exotic locations together. Rocky believes it’s important to have a work/life balance. “We all have to make money to make a living,” he says, “but family is everything. If you don’t balance things and have some fun, what’s the point of making money?”

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By: Antionette Kerr

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KEVIN

Sullivan

Infinite Wealth Advisors, LLC AGE: 57 HOUSEHOLD: Wife Amber “Blaire”

and dogs Hugo and Britton LKN TOWN: Mooresville

After traveling the world for business, just shy of his millionth mile, Kevin Sullivan had a moment of awakening. “By the age of 40, my mid-life crisis was not a new car,” he shares, “it was a new career.” The financial services industry became a second career for the executive—who made the transition in 2002 by founding his own firm, Infinite Wealth Advisors.

A Pennsylvania native, Kevin moved to Charlotte in 1996 as the practice consulting manager for Siemen Health Systems after serving as the director of managed care for John Hancock and working at the South Tower of the World Trade Center. He was at the peak of his career. His background included 20 plus years in the healthcare arena providing executive leadership, and business was on the rise when he decided to make the transition to the financial services industry.

Kevin wanted a more personalized experience with clients. “We take a very proactive leadership role in helping people get through financial decisions and smoothing the rough road for our clients; and the thing that drew me was the opportunity to create trust and demonstrate competence, things that are sorely needed in this industry … those are the things we do well,” he assures.

Kevin found his new home in Mooresville, his career in finance, and the love of his life to boot! Coincidentally, Kevin and his wife, Blaire, met when they accompanied friends on a first date. “It didn’t work out for them,” Kevin says. “But it did work out for us.” The couple married in 2011 and now enjoy peaceful weekends in the Mooresville Farms community with dogs Hugo and Britton. “I’m not a city person,” he proclaims. “Where I live is pretty quiet. Work life can get busy, but it’s always nice to downshift from the week.”

In addition to their love of the area, Kevin and Blaire share a love for traveling. Kevin’s passion for fly fishing goes beyond just a hobby. It’s an experience they invite a dozen wounded veterans to join each year.

“It’s very informal,” he explains. “We don’t go through a nonprofit.”

Kevin, along with brother Steve and some others, come together to provide food, lodging, and fly-fishing lessons for the wounded soldiers. “This past year we had a marine sergeant who was paralyzed on the left side from an explosion in the Iraq war. He is my age … we showed him how to cast a fly and land some big trout. The look of satisfaction and accomplishment on his face was something that is just indescribable.”

Kevin feels it’s important to give back to those who have helped to secure our freedom. “I think that veterans are generally underserved and underappreciated. It’s because of them I have the ability to own my own business and be free in this country. It is a small way to contribute and give back to those who have given so much.”

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By: Antionette Kerr

Dr. nathan

Ellis

denver dental arts AGE: 34 HOUSEHOLD: Wife

Kariann; daughters Annalee, Amelia, and Adeline; dogs Bonnie and Zain LKN TOWN: Denver Because of the intense rivalries between Duke, NC State, and UNC Chapel Hill, the fans of these schools are rabid and fiercely loyal. And while Dr. Nathen Ellis of Denver Dental Arts has cause to root for all three (he earned his undergraduate degrees in biology and genetics at NC State, worked for Duke’s Center for Human Genetics for two years, then attended dental school at UNC Chapel Hill) his primary allegiance clearly resides with his first alma mater: “Go Wolfpack!” he says with a smile.

That Wolfpack fervor is shared by his wife Kariann, who is also an NC State graduate and the office manager of their practice. Ironically, however, the couple met on Chapel Hill’s famed Franklin Street.

They have now been married for nine years and have three beautiful daughters. Although Dr. Ellis says with a wink that working with his wife is the favorite part of his job, he also derives a great deal of satisfaction in being able to improve the lives of his patients: “Some patients come in who are having a terrible day because of a toothache and thinking the worst,” he states. “I love encouraging them and providing them with treatment that not only improves their day, but can improve their smile and their self-esteem, too.”

Although he had originally planned to be an orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Ellis knew that dentistry was for him after volunteering at a local dental clinic while at NC State. He switched his career track and as he says, “never looked back.” Today, he and Kariann operate a state-of-the art facility where the focus is on patient care. “Every day is different,” he notes. “Some days we do a lot of restorative and cosmetic dentistry … some days we do a lot of surgery.” But regardless of the variety of treatment, the constant is the quality of care each patient receives: “We always take extra time to make sure our patients understand their treatment and feel like they are being heard,” Dr. Ellis explains.

Dr. Ellis is as devoted to his role as husband and dad as he is to his professional role as dentist. And even though he says life just doesn’t get much better than when he’s able to spend time with Kariann on date nights enjoying and exploring different spots in Charlotte, he admits that finding a good work/life balance can be a challenge at times. But for this family man, it’s a challenge well worth figuring out: “Becoming a husband and father gave me a different outlook on life … I can’t wait to get home and see my girls at the end of the day.”

By: Dana Nieters

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Dr. Michael

Foran carolina oral & facial surgery

AGE: 40 HOUSEHOLD: Wife Megan;

daughter Erin; son Liam LKN TOWN: Mooresville

Michael Foran, DMD, and Michael Coleman, DDS, are two partners in the specialty practice at Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery in Cornelius. They provide services such as dental implants and wisdom tooth removal, as well as a full range of other specialized oral and maxillofacial services.

Dr. Michael Coleman graduated from the University of North Carolina at Charlotte and earned his doctorate in dental science from the University of Buffalo. “After completing my residency at Virginia Commonwealth University,” he explains, “I moved to the Lake Norman area to join my uncle, Dr. Patrick Coleman, at his Cornelius practice.” Married to his college sweetheart, Shelby, the couple has three sons: 11-year-old Jack; 9-year-old Patrick; and 4-year-old Cooper.

An avid Carolina Panthers fan, Dr. Coleman enjoys taking his family to games and tailgating events. Having three young sons keeps Dr. Coleman and his wife very busy. “Our boys are involved in sports,” he says, “and we spend quite a bit of time out on the lake.” His patients may be surprised to know that Dr. Coleman even gets up on a wakeboard! “I often play golf in my spare time as well,” he adds. Understanding the importance of giving back, Dr. Coleman participates in numerous community events every year. “I am proud to serve the people of Lake Norman and to be a contributing member of this amazing area we call home.”

Dr. Mike Foran is a native of New York and was raised on Long Island. He attended Loyola College and Temple University’s School of Dentistry. He is married to his college sweetheart, Megan, and they have two children: 9-year-old Erin and 4-year-old Liam. Working as a dentist at Walter Reed Hospital in Washington, DC, Dr. Foran was inspired by the oral and maxillofacial surgeons who treated the soldiers who were brought in with facial trauma. “When I saw what these soldiers had gone through in order to serve and protect our country,” he says, “I knew I had to help them.” Professionally, Dr. Foran is proudest of the work he is able to perform on these wounded soldiers.

DR. Michael

Coleman carolina oral & facial surgery

AGE: 43 HOUSEHOLD: Wife

Shelby; sons Jack, Patrick, and Cooper LKN TOWN: Denver

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A resident of the rural side of Mooresville, Dr. Foran takes time out for his hobby of competing in triathlons.

“The training helps me to unwind and relax, and I appreciate the alone time it gives me … it’s a great time to think,” he shares. The Foran family enjoys relaxing at any beach location, but their current favorite is Corolla Beach in the Outer Banks. When asked what a perfect day looks like in his world, the doctor’s prescription is to wake up at the beach, go for a long run or bike ride, spend the day with family, and grill dinner in the evening. “It’s also important to include a good beer while grilling that dinner,” he smiles.

By: Michelle Love

Mixing family with business can be tricky.

But for Brad Roche, “The Mortgage Planner” at Element Funding, it simply has been a way of life.

Brad began his career in 1993, interning at his father’s mortgage brokerage firm in Kalamazoo, Michigan. In 1993, Brad received an opportunity to open a mortgage branch for a company in the Lake Norman area, and he and his wife, Angela, and their two sons, Bradley and Jacob, moved south.

brad

Roche element funding AGE: 41 HOUSEHOLD: Wife

Angela; sons Bradley and Jacob LKN TOWN: Mooresville

Brad’s family-business experience, however, continued below the Mason Dixon line, with Angela joining his team. She had been Brad’s highschool sweetheart, and working for his father parttime as a student, she also learned the mortgage business from him. “My father-in-law taught me the mortgage industry inside and out,” she says. “He was by far the best mentor that I have ever had.”

Brad concurs: “My father served as an example for me on how to lead. He passed on to me the daily principles I use to guide my decisions.”

Brad’s father passed away three years ago, but Brad continues to honor him in the way he conducts business at Element Funding. He understands that whether the borrower is buying a new home, refinancing an existing loan, or is a senior looking into reverse mortgage options, the process is a very emotional and important one. Because of that awareness, he takes the time to learn his clients’ individual needs and then provides them with options that make sense for those needs. He is now passing on these business values and principles to Bradley and Jacob, both of whom are continuing the family tradition by interning with him. This time with them at the office, Brad says, is the best part of his day. “Every afternoon, I find myself looking at my watch to see when they will be coming in,” he admits.

Brad knows, too, that like any work environment, working with family comes with its own set of challenges. “I am intentional in showing respect for the unique gifts Angela brings to our business,” he says of his method for dealing with those challenges. “That is so important when working with family because it’s very easy for things to get personal in both good and bad times.”

Brad and Angela also deal with the trials of a busy professional life by taking time to unwind as a family. This summer, they checked off one of Brad’s bucket list items by traveling to Italy to celebrate the couple’s 20th wedding anniversary and Jacob’s high school graduation.

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By: Dana Nieters

See our website for our monthly cosmetic specials!

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704.235.1827 www.MooresvilleDermCenter.com

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DR. Stephen

giordano Carolina Age Management Institute

AGE: 43 HOUSEHOLD: Wife Amber; sons Luca

and Jase; dogs Max, Hurley, and Riley LKN TOWN: Mooresville

Dr. Stephen Giordano (Dr. G), medical director and founder of Carolina Age Management Institute in Huntersville, grew up in the “Icebox of Pennsylvania,” an area in the rural northwest. He studied pre-med biology at West Virginia University and then attended Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine to obtain his medical degree—but that wasn’t always his dream.

“My father was a pharmacist, and that’s what I always wanted to be,” says Dr. G. However, his father dissuaded him his whole life from being a pharmacist and suggested medical school instead. “My dad was always my inspiration for becoming a doctor, and my parents were extremely supportive,” he adds. Dr. G chose his current specialty of aesthetic medicine after realizing it complemented his artistic side.

After a good friend from medical school invited him down here for an interview, Dr. G moved to the Lake Norman area in December of 2007. “We went out on the lake and had a barbecue afterwards, and after growing up in the Icebox, I was ready for North Carolina weather. I think I signed the contract the next day!” Dr. G met his wife, Amber, in the hospital system where she was working as a cardiac nurse, and he was an attending physician. The two were married in the backyard of their lake home.

Dr. G’s Italian roots run deep, and just as much, the influence of his parents. Smiling, he says, “my mom was a financial guru and my father taught me how to work hard and earn money.” At a young age, his mom taught him the power of investing and how to do it for the long haul. Dr. G’s parents worked hard their entire lives to build their business. “There were times when it seemed like they may not make it, but they always pulled through,” he admits. Watching his parents’ success helped strengthen his resolve to follow in their footsteps.

“I also have them on speed dial,” he grins.

Inspired by his parents, the love of family is Dr. G’s primary passion. “Being an amazing father by creating a wonderful life and great opportunities for my children is my number one passion,” he states. “I spent the greater part of my life living on the edge, taking risks, and loving anything that fueled my adrenaline,” he reveals.

At the age of 40, Dr. G decided to make a dramatic lifestyle change: “I chose to believe in God,” he smiles, “and that He has a plan for everything.”

Dr. G decided to become dedicated to being the best father, husband, and doctor that he can be—a true role model for his family. “I would have never believed how giving up the old lifestyle and committing myself to the truly important things in life would propel me personally and professionally. It has truly been a blessing.”

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By: Michelle Love

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Scene

WITH

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Courtney Brown, cabinet designer and sales rep, with LKNW’s Michele at the Grand Opening Celebration for Little Wood Flooring and Cabinetry in Cornelius

BE SCENE LAKE NORMAN WOMAN is getting out and about each month, looking for great events and the fabulous and exciting Lake Norman people who are making them happen!

So next time you’re at a chamber event, a new business in the area, or just out having fun, look for Lake Norman Woman and our camera.

Who knows, you just might find yourself in next month’s

Sha Bolling, owner of Flour Power Kids Cooking Studios in Huntersville (opening soon), with LKNW’s Stephanie

LKNW’s Jessica (left) and Michele (far right) with Heidi and Rick Brausch, owners of DreamMaker Bath & Kitchen in Charlotte

“SCENE WITH LAKE NORMAN WOMAN!”

View more

Scene photos

on our Facebook page at: Lake Norman Woman

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LKNW’s Michele (center) with Jessica Leonhardt (left) and Kelly Lail (right), owners of WFV Designs in Mooresville Amelia Hinson of Nest Realty with LKNW’s Jessica at a recent ribbon-cutting ceremony

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calendar

1

5 THINGS AN LKN

Fridays & Saturdays in August

7pm-9pm Birkdale Village 16725 Birkdale Commons Pkwy., Huntersville

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4 Tuesday, August 7

MOVIES IN THE PARK—WONDER 7:30pm-10pm Veterans’ Park 201 Huntersville-Concord Rd., Huntersville

Bring your chairs, blankets, and get comfortable for this free showing of Wonder, which begins 15-20 minutes after dusk. Drinks, candy, & popcorn are available for purchase.

Saturday, August 4

NATIONAL NIGHT OUT 6pm-8pm Bailey Road Park 11536 Bailey Rd., Cornelius

BACK TO SCHOOL BASH 9am-2pm Mooresville Middle School 233 Kistler Farm Rd., Mooresville

Area churches and businesses come together to provide students with needed school supplies, food, and shoes. Event includes children’s activities and music.

5

Enjoy an evening of family fun, with children’s activities, food, entertainment, and more at this free, public event promoting community safety and crime prevention.

LAKE NORMAN YMCA TRIATHLON Saturday, August 25

7am-until Ingersoll Rand 800 Beaty St., Davidson

This triathlon is one of the most popular events in North Carolina. All proceeds support the YMCA’s adaptive water skiers program for children and adults with physical disabilities.

© Photoking | Dreamstime.com

This event features live music every Friday & Saturday night from 7pm-9pm. Bring a chair or a blanket and the whole family; it’s a good time for all!

42 LKN

OMAN SHOULD DO IN AUGUST

Thursday, August 2

MINGLING ON THE GREENS

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Collaborate.Create.Captivate starrmiller.com | 704.896.3321

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Get

Outta

Town! own!

Cruising the Intracoastal Waterway longed to gaze up at the stars from the deck of a boat … cruising along without a care? Well, a grand and unique adventure awaits as you travel the Intracoastal Waterway!

H AV E YO U E V E R

The Intracoastal Waterway (ICW) is a 3,000-mile waterway that runs from Boston to the southern tip of Florida and beyond. Many sections consist of natural inlets, saltwater rivers, bays, and sounds. It provides a navigable route (even for novice boaters) without the hazards of open sea.

What began as an essential trading route for shipping companies is now a boater’s paradise, with stops along the way that include landmark beaches, quaint towns, and big cities alike. So whether you want to travel south to sunny Florida, north toward New England, or stay close to the Carolinas, boating or sailing the ICW is doable all year long, no matter the season!

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WITH THAT SAID, HERE ARE SOME TRAVEL TIPS AND MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE ICW— The ICW (known to mariners as “The Ditch”) is a recreational trail for North Carolina sailors and boaters who want to explore the Carolinas without getting too far from the beaches. The Outer Banks runs parallel to the waterway, and boaters can easily dock to visit the small towns of the Inner Banks.

Boaters who travel just this small portion of the waterway (along the coast of the Carolinas) will get a good idea of what cruising the ICW is all about. With scenic views, charming marinas, restaurants, and shops, voyagers will have lots to explore.

Renting a houseboat is a delightful way to travel the ICW. Prices vary greatly depending on what time of year you’re traveling, where you are going, and how long you are gone; but when compared to other vacation costs, it can be surprisingly affordable. Check out www.Houseboating.org to get started.

Reed’s Nautical Almanac is another helpful resource. This publication guides you throughout the entire length of the ICW. And you can stay abreast of improvements, repairs, and other news by checking out the Atlantic Intracoastal Waterway Association at www.atlanticintracoastal.org.

Another useful site to check during your planning stage is www.icwplanningguide.com for marinas along the way and also www.oceanservice.noaa.gov for nautical charts and maps. Bon Voyage!

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Service and product availability varies by state.

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right at

HOME

cleaning

6 THINGS TRAINED PROS KNOW ABOUT (that

ot may no hers t!)

By: Kate Greene

1

An effective formula for cleaning (based on the famous Dr. Sinner’s circle) is: chemicals + temperature + time + agitation. Add more of one and

you can use less of another. For example, using an effective cleaning solution can enable you to spend less time or to expend less energy in scrubbing.

2

There is a huge mathematical difference between sanitizing and disinfecting. Sanitizing kills 99.9%

of germs — a 1,000-fold reduction in human exposure while disinfecting kills 99.999% — a 100,000-fold reduction.

Most homes don’t require true disinfecting (that’s for hospitals), but it’s good to know how to interpret highly regulated marketing lingo especially when someone in your family catches a nasty bug or flu. “Antibacterial” is a very different and weaker claim than “kills viruses that cause common colds and flu.”

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3

Chemistry matters. There

is a great deal of advanced science that goes into designing safe, effective cleaning solutions — ones that dissolve and bond with dirt and oils, suspend bonded particles in water, and lift them away from surfaces — all without leaving toxic chemical residues. Using poorly designed solutions, nonabsorbent cloths and mops, and/or improper techniques can equate to simply swishing dirt and chemicals around on surfaces rather than removing them.

4

Water matters too! A

cleaning solution that works well in one home may work less well in another. That’s because varying degrees of minerals in local water supplies (hard vs. soft water) can interfere with solution efficacy.

There is a very big difference between a house that looks and smells clean and a house that really is clean. Here are some things trained cleaning PROs know that can help bridge the gap:

5

Disinfecting takes time. You

6

Dirt falls. The mark of a true

might notice a PRO cleaner spraying bathroom or kitchen surfaces and then walking away to perform other tasks. They know it takes up to 10-15 minutes for (wet) disinfecting solutions to kill germs. This is why all those convenient “disinfecting” wipes rarely live up to their kill claims, since most people wipe too much counter per wipe and don’t leave enough wet disinfectant on the surface long enough to kill germs properly. cleaning PRO is that they start high, dusting ceiling fans, light fixtures, shelves, etc., and work gradually downward, finishing a room by vacuuming or washing the floor. They also start far away from a home’s entry point and work gradually back toward the door to prevent re-depositing dust and dirt on freshly-cleaned surfaces.

Finally, PROs segregate their tools to avoid cross contamination — between bathrooms and kitchens, for example.

Kate Greene is the marketing account manager of MaidPro of Lake Norman located at 19701 W. Catawba Avenue, Suite C, in Cornelius. You may contact them at 980.939.0945 or at their Mooresville location at 704.360.4592.

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Need to close quickly...no problem!

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20 years experience.

www.gmmllc.com/sblackwell ADVERTISING NOTICE – NOT A COMMITMENT TO LEND – SUBJECT TO PROGRAM AVAILABILITY. This is not a commitment to lend. All loan applications are subject to credit and property approval. Annual Percentage Rate (APR), programs, rates, fees, closing costs, terms and conditions are subject to change without notice and may vary depending upon credit history and transaction specifics. Other closing costs may be necessary. Flood and/or property hazard insurance may be required. To be eligible, buyer must meet minimum down payment, underwriting and program guidelines.

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and even at your own dinner table. Cell phone use is indeed everywhere and can be distracting— and considered rude in many instances! So with that in mind, here are a few tips: I T ’ S AT T H E M O V I E S , I N YO U R FAV O R I T E R E S TA U R A N T,

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Cell Phone

1drive! 2 Hang up and

Lower your voice

when in public

3 4 5 8

AND DON’T CURSE or use crude language.

Avoid personal topics

Etiquette

Tips

$!@#!%^

when others can hear you.

6 7

Avoid taking calls when you are with someone. If you do need to take the call, ask permission.

Put your phone’s ringer on

silent mode

in theaters, restaurants, libraries, or church.

Observe the 10-foot Proximity Rule. Keep a distance of at least 10 feet from the nearest person when talking on a cell phone.

Don’t text during face-to-face conversations, in class, or at a meeting.

10 9

DON’T LIGHT UP YOUR PHONE’S SCREEN WHEN IN A DARK THEATER.

CHOOSE YOUR

ring tone

wisely (no annoying or vulgar tones).

Avoid looking things up until you have a private moment to do so.

For more tips on being cell phone savvy when it comes to manners, check out www.emilypost.com.

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has taken on a whole new popularity in cities across the country, and Lake Norman is no exception. Not only have the craft breweries and taprooms exploded in recent years, but an exciting new social scene has been birthed.

T H E A RT A N D F U N O F C R A F T I N G B R E W

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“Craft brewing,” "…these new taprooms are states the Charlotte actually helping to build Observer, “has taken root across North Carolina, but few places have the concentration of taprooms now found in Lake Norman, and Cornelius in particular. They’re not only feeding demand for local pale ales, porters and stouts, they’re also becoming hangouts for friends and neighbors. With beer tastings, running and yoga nights, food truck rallies and live music, these new taprooms are actually helping to build community.”

community."

The 1980s marked the decade of the micro-brewing pioneers, and these companies emerged with a passion and a vision— to serve their local communities a taste of full-flavored beer with old-world European traditions. Momentum grew and enthusiasts have turned their hobbies into successful businesses.

According to an article at www.theatlantic.com, “In the last decade alone, something strange and extraordinary has happened … the number of brewery establishments expanded by a factor of six, and the number of brewery workers grew by 120 percent. Yes, a 200-year-old industry has sextupled its establishments and more than doubled its workforce in less than a decade. Even more incredibly, this has happened during a time when U.S. beer consumption declined.”

With all the excitement of craft breweries, taprooms, and the like popping up throughout the Lake Norman area, we hope you take advantage of what the Lake has to offer and keep an eye on Lake Norman Woman Magazine for local events!

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Have You Caught the Brew Flu?!

If you’re like many of us, crafting is a popular pastime … but how about crafting your own brew?

From pumpkin beer to a dark stout or a sweet, fruity brew, the flavors and fun are endless!

FOR THOSE WHO HAVE A TASTE FOR A FUN PROJECT, HERE ARE SOME TIPS FOR BEGINNERS: THE BASICS

SOME SCIENCE

Cleanliness is the most important rule of home brewing, and the best way to clean your equipment is with plain bleach and water (2 ½ tablespoons per 5 gallons of water).

Every piece of brewing equipment should be cleaned with the bleach solution and then rinsed really well. You are sterilizing the equipment to kill bacteria that can sour your beer; however, bleach will kill yeast, too, and yeast is your friend so be cautious and thorough in the cleaning process.

Beer is made with sugar from malt, which is a grain, and hops which are the flowers of a plant that give beer its bitterness (to offset the sweetness from the malt sugars). This all goes into water and is cooked. For a five gallon batch, cook in about a gallon of water, and then pour it into the fermentation container filled with four more gallons at room temperature.

Once the whole thing is at room temperature, you put yeast in it. Yeast are microorganisms that consume sugar and produce two byproducts, alcohol and carbon dioxide. The yeast will metabolize as much sugar as they can, and then they will pass out and fall to the bottom of the container.

Once the particulates settle out of the brew and it clears, it can be bottled.

EQUIPMENT

There are cheap kits for someone who wants to just brew a batch or two and then stop, but you can brew a good batch of beer in a five gallon plastic bucket. Other useful equipment includes a bottling tree which is useful for draining and drying bottles after they are cleaned. At a bare minimum, you need a fermentation vessel, a bottling bucket, clear plastic hoses for siphoning and bottling, a bottling wand, a big cook pot, airlock for your fermentation vessel, a long spoon, clean bottles, bottle caps, a capper, and, of course, the ingredients for your beer.

For more information on home brewing and craft beer, visit www.baderbrewing.com.

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SHELF LIFE

It is also important to know that different beers have different shelf lives, and the flavor of a brew can change over time. Some brews are at their best a few weeks after bottling, while others are better after several months.

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IN THE

kitchen

Cashews

Cashews are the seed of the cashew apple, an edible fruit indigenous to Brazil. They are packed with antioxidants and have about 180 calories per serving. With high levels of monounsaturated fatty acids, cashews help support your “good” cholesterol (HDL).

TIP: Cashews are great in stir-fry dishes or try them with a little maple syrup in your oatmeal.

Almonds High in monounsaturated fats—the LDLlowering fat like you find in olive oil—almonds are full of vitamin E and potassium and have about 132 calories per serving.

Crush and TIP: sprinkle over casseroles for a crispy crust.

it’s

Nutty!

Some of the most popular “nuts” are actually drupes, fruits with a single pit or seed. Regardless, packed with a host of vitamins, minerals, proteins, fiber, and the essential omega-3 fatty acids, they are a healthy snack choice.

Information is based on 1/4-cup of whole, raw nuts.

Pecans

According to the USDA, pecans are among the top 15 foods recognized for their antioxidants, namely vitamin E. With around 175 calories per serving, the pecan is especially high in fiber which helps maintain a healthy digestive system.

Add 1 tbsp. butter to a bowl of chopped pecans; add a tbsp. of TIP: brown sugar and generously drizzle with maple syrup; warm in microwave and serve over ice cream or frozen yogurt.

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Walnuts

With similar nutrients as other nuts, the walnut packs its punch in the skin, where as much as 90 percent of the antioxidants are thought to reside. With about 200 calories per serving, the walnut contains the most antioxidants of any nut and is the richest in omega-3 fatty acids.

Store the shelled TIP: nuts in the freezer. They thaw quickly at room temperature, and eating them VERY cold makes the bitter skin more palatable.

Pistachios

These delicious nuts date back to ancient times and are a member of the cashew family. Compared to all other nuts, pistachios contain the most potassium and vitamin K and have about 175 calories per serving.

Make sure the shell is split open on one end. If TIP: the shell is closed, it is not quite ripe; the greener the nutmeat, the more flavorful.

For more information on nuts and nutrition, visit www.health.com or www.usda.gov.

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B E T T E R M E … B E T T E R YO U … B E T T E R W O R L D

MIND body spirit { { By mixing the ingredients of attitude and action, we can change the flavor of our own lives. Learn to nurture your body and soul to lead a more balanced life.

CHANGE YOUR

STRIDE By: Allan Purtill

“ C H A N G E YO U R S T R I D E , ”

the runner next to me said. “If you’re going to make it, you need to shorten your stride.” I didn’t ask my running buddy for help, nor did I like him telling me how to run.

What was he talking about changing my stride? Is that even a thing? This unsolicited advice got me thinking about change and the difficulty of change even when it’s for our good.

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An ancient Hebrew prayer begins: “I lift up my eyes to the hills from where will my help come?” It’s a Psalm of inspiration for people on long and difficult journeys.

It’s from Psalm 121 and its origins lie in the quarterly pilgrimage to the holy city for festival. The trip was treacherous and communal. Obstacles lay in the road. In order for the entire congregation to arrive everyone would have to adjust their pace and change their stride. So they sang to the cadence of their walk. They sang deep and powerful songs. And what do we still hear in their singing? We hear that we are

to ask for help, and the Psalmist answers, “My help comes from the Lord…he will not let your foot be moved.”

I used to run to win, now I run to finish.

I used to time myself, now I just trot.

Sometimes I start without a route in mind. Also, I find there is plenty of sound without the ear buds. Occasionally, I preach. I need to run alone some days, but it helps to also have a buddy alongside.

After the many unsolicited admonitions about my running, I finally tried some new steps and changed my stride. In the beginning, my muscles ached; but overtime I saw progress. Now I wouldn’t go back. It wasn’t easy for my ego, though, and I’m still learning to accept that which my friend has already learned to receive.

It’s called help, and God provides it in unexpected ways. It’s good to change your stride every once in a while.

Allan Purtill is the pastor at Hopewell Presbyterian Church in Huntersville.

He enjoys and counsels his congregation as they seek to follow God’s unfolding mission in Huntersville and the greater Lake Norman community. The church is located at 10500 Beatties Ford Road and he can be reached at 704.875.2291.

©Andybor | Dreamstime.com

be willing to

We run for all kinds of reasons. Some run to release the stress. Some run to fight disease. Some, I hear, even run for fun.

But, there are others who run in other ways. Their fingers race up and down the piano as they tickle the ivories; their strong arms propel their wheelchairs over the marathon course; or their minds run algorithms and formulas that make life better for all of us. We all need to cultivate those activities that jog our creativity, engage us in life, and help us nurture strength of spirit. And, when we incorporate those passions and activities into our lives, changing strides, we may find ourselves on a new and unexpected journey that is nevertheless beautiful and providential.

AUGUST 2018 |

w

LKN

57

AUGUST 2018 |

w

LKN

59

AUGUST 2018 |

w

LKN

60