Lake Norman Woman August 2023

I m a g i n e y o u r h o m e , B E A U T I F U L L Y O R G A N I Z E D

I RECENTLY THREW A PARTY for my husband’s 60th birthday. He didn’t want the fuss, but the last half of year 59 hadn’t been all that fun for him, and I felt we needed to bring in his sixties with gusto.

We had a 1960s theme, decorating the house with beads, lava lamps, ower power petals, and peace signs. Dressed in their go-go skirts and tie dye, guests began arriving at 7pm, and soon we had a house full of friends and loved ones chatting, eating, and hanging loose. It was out of sight.

But apparently, once we hit 60, the only thing that can hang loose very long is our saggy skin. For by 9:31, everyone had split. When my mom called me around 10pm, I asked her how she knew the party would be over already. e response from the almost-octogenarian was, “Y’all are 60…I’m surprised it went that long.” As my husband and I climbed into bed that night a little later than usual (10:30), we laughed about how the desire to party all night long is yet another thing we lose as we age.

ere’s a lot, isn’t there? Skin elasticity, hair color, muscle mass, taste buds, metabolism, exibility, our phones and glasses time and again, even though sometimes they’re in our hands and on our heads. And of course, there’s more… painful stu ; heartbreaking stu .

e beauty of it all, though, is God’s mathematics, for as much that is lost, so much more is gained. And not just belly fat. ings that can never be taken from us; things we can carry with us the rest of the way; things that have nothing to do with what we see in the mirror or bank account. Some of these things have been given in exchange for those losses

and heartaches; nearly all of these things have been given in exchange for a healthy dose of resilience. ings like courage and grace. Strength and compassion. Faith and wisdom. Freedom. Especially freedom. A dear friend of mine has called her quinquagenarian decade (I know, I had to look it up, too) her “Freedom Fifties,” and I’m determined to adopt her fabulous attitude as I enter my “Swinging Sixties.” (Easy there, not that kind of swinging.)

e 1960s hipsters celebrated personal freedom by defying authority, growing their hair, wearing short skirts, and using mind-altering drugs. I’m doing that in my sixties too, only I’m doing a hard stop after the “celebrating personal freedom” part. I’m not only going to celebrate freedom, I’m going to embrace it. e freedom to forgive. e freedom to not lament what could have been or worry over what will be. e freedom to eat the entire cheesecake, leave the dirty dishes in the sink, and wear the yoga pants, even though my 60-year-old derriere in yoga pants will look like…well, a 60-year-old derriere in yoga pants.

At last. Finally. At almost 60, I am going to embrace the freedom to just be me. Can ya’ dig it? Maybe not the yoga pants part, but the rest…you can dig that, can’t you? w

August CONTRIBUTORS

Shawn Hall; Willetta Jones; Lindsay Martell; Emmaleen Muldoon

DANA JORDAN PUBLISHER

Name

For more than 10 years now, I have owned and operated several mental health clinics, including Bayou Mental Health Services, LLC, social and emotional learning, I consult with school districts to help teachers, staff, and students with strategies for the classroom as well as for their own personal and professional development.

Could you tell us a bit about your background and philosophies? I have a Bachelor of Arts degree from the University of Maryland, a Master of Social Work from Smith College, a master’s in business administration from Louisiana State University, and a Certificate in Executive Non-Profit Management from Georgetown University. My approach to therapy is eclectic and holistic, drawing from several modalities to fit the needs and goals of my clients. I have nearly 20 years of experience in many areas including criminal law, education, and the mental health fields. It is my passion to help guide those who are on their personal journey toward discovering ways to live a more fulfilling and balanced life.

LaTonya SCRIVEN CHARLES

What are your specific areas of expertise?

I am trained and experienced in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Dialectical Behavior Therapy, and Trauma Informed Therapy. However, I also have a lot of experience with women’s issues, couples therapy, family dynamics, ADHD, stress management, depression, and anxiety. As previously mentioned, I have a great interest in working within our school systems where much healing is needed. I have worked with children and teens from all walks of life during my entire career. I love that I can relate to and understand the challenges that they often face as they are trying to navigate their way through life.

BAYOU MENTAL HEALTH SERVICES

How do you keep a healthy, balanced life yourself?

The best lifecoping strategies are to “walk the talk.” With my lived experience, education, and professional career in the mental health field, I have a unique perspective which allows me to intellectually recognize and heal myself in many areas. I pride myself on raising four amazing children and spending time with caring, positive people who have great energy. Above all, I have an unshakeable faith in God and remain firmly grounded in gratitude. w

IS FOR app!

HANDY SCHOOL APPS—

MyHomework Student Planner

www.myhomeworkapp.com

Whether you want to manage homework, tests, projects, or class schedules, this handy little app will keep you organized. It also syncs across other devices so you’re always covered!

MerriamWebster’s Dictionary App

www.merriamwebster.com

Everyone needs a dictionary at their fingertips, and this app offers all the definitions from Merriam-Webster’s Collegiate Dictionary along with synonyms, antonyms, example sentences, Word of the Day, and more. You can even use the voice search feature so you don’t have to know the spelling.

Grammarly App

www.grammarly.com

What kind of journalists would we be if we didn’t recommend something to help you with your grammar skills? Grammarly App will help students with the basics of grammar, punctuation, sentence structure, vocabulary, and much more! It comes with more than 1000 exercises, quizzes, questions, and games for fast and efficient learning.

EasyBib

www.easybib.com

This app lets you easily generate citations and create bibliographies—you can even scan the bar code on the back of the book, and the app will save the citation along with your other sources.

Brainscape— Smart Flashcards

www.brainscape.com

Brainscape has a mobile website for Android users so everyone can make the most of this useful app. Create multimedia flashcards that will help you break down the subject matter into easy-to-learn bites. w

SCHOOL DAYS or SCHOOL DAZE?!

BACK IN THE DAY WHEN I WAS A young student, getting ready for the start of the school year meant talking on the phone with my best friend to coordinate our clothes. We had one phone with a 50-foot cord that was on the kitchen wall and reached every room in the house. In school, the only drills were for re and tornadoes … certainly not for mass shootings—that wasn’t even a thought!

Years later, during my time as a teacher, getting ready for school meant organizing and reviewing student les to get a glimpse of their background and educational history. It was always fun designing and putting up bulletin boards. My husband, Bill, would help me set up my classroom with an activity center—complete with books, plants, a cozy rug, and a rocking chair.

Today, so many things have changed, and the world looks very di erent. However, there are some basic principles and truths that are the foundations for learning regardless— whether black, white, Asian, Hispanic, the LGBT+ community, or whatever your background, there is a healthy atmosphere which promotes learning and growth for everyone. ese include:

Supportive mindsets that allow for divergent thinking that starts at the state, district, and individual levels.

Building administrators and support sta who believe that teachers—as responsible adults caring for and teaching our children—are worthy of respect.

Parents and community leaders need to support teachers, administrators, and sta by providing salaries that allow school personnel livable wages that promote and provide a thriving, abundant lifestyle.

As you get ready for this new school year, please remember it’s never too early or too late to establish some organization, house rules, and guidelines that will benefit the entire family. Here are some suggestions:

After having to follow so many rules throughout the day, give your children 30-60 minutes to decompress when they get home from school.

Have a special area set up for homework … allow them to individualize their workspace.

Sit down and eat dinner together (no phones!) where each person tells the highlight of their day.

Organize and set out clothes for the next day. I used to get my clothes organized by the week and have underwear, socks, shoes, outfits, accessories, etc. lined up in the closet and on my dresser … it’s a huge time-saver!

Make lunch the night before.

Have quiet time with parents before bedtime.

Get 8-10 hours of quality sleep.

Have a check list to make sure everything needed for the next day is ready. w

Willetta Jones WRITER PHOTO Tyler Tarbet Photography

Willetta Jones, MS, CGC, is a certi ed grief coach and the founder/owner of Abiding Grace, LLC. Connect with Willetta at Abidinggracellc72019@gmail.com or visit www.abidinggracellc.com.

LKNE XPERT

getting in the BACK-TO-

SCHOOL flow

PARENTS LOVE THOSE THREE LITTLE WORDS; kids dread them—Back To School! But after the long, hot summer even the most reticent of children might be longing to get back to their school chums and the routine of the classroom. While it is indeed a busy time of year, here are a few tidbits to help you start off the school year right:

Create a family bulletin board. Here you can keep class and extracurricular schedules, reminders, and even afterschool chores to keep everyone on task. Make it a habit to check it in the mornings before leaving the house.

Create homework stations. Let your children pick out their own desk, lamp, and filing system so they feel a part of the designated area, and it reflects their own wants and needs. They can keep their books, supplies, and backpacks here as well.

Have a snack station in the kitchen. The afterschool munchies are inevitable so prepackage baggies full of healthy snack so when your kids come home from school all they have to do is grab a bag!

Organize clothes closets. By moving around summer attire and getting school clothes up front, your kids will have an easier time choosing what to wear.

Buy a hanging shoe caddy for organizing. The individual pockets work perfectly for holding art and school supplies. w

BULLYING CAN TAKE MANY FORMS, especially with all of today’s technology. According to the American Psychological Association (APA), “bullying is a form of aggressive behavior in which someone intentionally and repeatedly causes another person injury or discomfort. Bullying can take the form of physical contact, words, or more subtle actions.”

You’re the key when it comes to preventing bullying. It is important to teach your children what bullying is and to equip them with the proper solution. It is up to everyone to create a safe environment for children, both socially and academically. Educate yourself, your children, your family, and your community on how to prevent and stop bullying—

How Do You Know?

Children may not realize they are being bullied, thinking it is just teasing; or they put up with it so they won’t be unpopular. Have an age-appropriate discussion with your child and explain to them that if they are uncomfortable under any circumstance, they should let you (or another adult) know.

Are you feeling Hopeless about your child’s BRAIN & MOOD ISSUES?

· Supplementation based on their physical workup

· Brain balancing exercises determined via assessment

· Psychological strategies mapped to their nervous system & your family

Don’t Turn Your Back

Pay attention to your child’s moods and behaviors. If something seems wrong, it usually is, so be sure to keep the lines of communication open. Encourage your child to talk about their school day and ask them detailed questions on everything from lunch to locker rooms.

Talk, Walk, and Tell

The APA recommends teaching your child to first talk to the bully (if they are not in direct danger). They should say things like, “You don’t scare me,” or “You need to go away now and mind your own business.” They should then walk away, don’t engage further, and go straight to an adult to tell them what has happened.

Emotional Bullying

The APA explains that social bullying can be just as harmful as the physical type. Girls tend to bully in this fashion by excluding or spreading rumors about others. It can be just as devastating and painful, so be sure your child knows the various forms bullying can take.

Cyberbullying

Role Play at Home

Practice ways your child can respond to bullies. Teach them creative, even humorous, ways to confront the bully. Quick, clever, and kind retorts can diffuse the situation, giving the child more time to distract, disregard, and move away from the bully.

Teach your child to ignore and “Unfriend” anyone who is sending inappropriate messages, photos, links, and the like. Again, it is best not to engage; it fuels the fire! Monitor your child’s electronic devices and use the proper filters. Also, have a common place, such as the kitchen, to store phones at night so you can keep tabs more closely. w

For more information on recognizing, preventing, and dealing with bullying, visit the American Psychological Association’s website at www.apa.org.

College

AFTER ALL THE STREAMERS ARE PUT AWAY, the honor cords and graduation pictures placed on the mantle with care, parents begin to turn their attention towards what we really have been working towards— college! If you’re like me, this has been a time filled with some anxiety but also immense joy and pride. As we prepare to send our kids to college, here are a few tips that you need to know before they go:

You’re no longer the all-knowing authority so permission must be sought.

Make sure you complete the Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act a ectionately known as FERPA. is single document can be a lifesaver as it gives you access to your child’s grades, educational records, and allows for advocacy among college faculty administration. It may be found online, with the registrar, or it may be sent directly to your child’s school email address. Take note that your child will have to complete this as well and, in many instances, provide a passcode for you to utilize. It is wise to have a number of people with FERPA access in case your child is not as comfortable as you would think sharing certain information with you. You can nd more information at the U.S. Department of Education website, www.ed.gov.

If your child is 18, they ARE an adult in the eyes of everyone (except you). Make sure you scope out all the new medical professionals they may need in their new home away from home. Although it is common for students to come home on a regular basis for appointments, there may be occasions where they’re not able to do so and you want to be prepared for that. You may want to give them a copy of their insurance card, their birth certi cate, immunization and shot record, and any insurance that you purchase for them.

Communication is paramount and is a two-way street. With my third child headed o to college this month, I realize more than ever that communication is a premium and looks di erent for each child. Establish at least one day a week where your child is available to talk with the family for 15-20 uninterrupted minutes, by phone or Zoom. Resist the urge to ask, “how are classes going.” Why? Because it’s a common question and it’s probably something that they get tired of answering. is is the time for you to show up as your authentic self so ask the questions that you really want to know the answers to—are you happy?

Making any friends? Have you attended any cool parties? Do you still feel like this is the right place for you? w

Shawn Hall is a former US Department of Education Program specialist that resides in Mooresville. She is a scholarship and college admissions coach and the author of “Prepare Now, Don’t Pay Later.” For more information, visit allroadseducation.com.

AN eye for style AND A heart full of GRATITUDE

“ One of my favorite quotes, ” says Abi GoldbergBlitstein (broker/realtor and luxury home specialist with Ivester Jackson | Christie’s Real Estate) “ is ‘ Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates a vision for tomorrow, ’ and I make it a priority to let gratitude guide me.

WRITER Leslie Ogle

PHOTOGRAPHER Chelsea Bren

Your Lake Norman Luxury Expert

Your Lake Norman Luxury Expert

I had such a great home-buying experience with Abi. What I appreciated most was Abi's ability to help evaluate the pros and cons of each alternative instead of just comparing one to the other. Once the primary target was identified, Abi did a great job in assembling an offer which was fair, well supported, and ultimately successful without an undue amount of back and forth. The post-contract process was smooth and easy, with an uncomplicated closing. Abi's ability to read the market, the seller, and her buyer, is truly a gift.

-Abi Goldberg Blitstein • Expert Agent Providing Knowledgeable Advice In Your Local Market • White Glove Service Provided To Clients At All Price Points

Every morning when I wake up and get another chance at this thing we call life, I know it will be a fabulous day. I am determined to be a great wife and mother … and each day I am also given the opportunity to be a wonderful friend and listener to my clients in order to bring them exactly what they are looking for in their real estate transactions. I love being available to my clients, paying attention to details, and listening to their concerns—all while making one of the biggest purchases of their life … it is an honor and a privilege.”

Abi credits her gratitude-driven attitude to her beloved mother who lost her battle with cancer a few years back. “My mom was my inspiration,” she says. “It was her mission to raise a strong, independent daughter who was loving, kind, compassionate, and hard working. She instilled life lessons of persistence and faith in me as I do now with my twin girls, Shayna and Samantha, who are 11. Mom taught me to thank God every day for what I have, and to realize that God was not going to give me anything I couldn’t handle in my life. She was my best friend, my biggest cheerleader, and my con dant.”

Growing up in New Jersey, Abi left home to attend college at East Stroudsburg University of Pennsylvania. Always having an eye for style and wanting to use her own creativity, she then attended cosmetology school.  rough years of hard work and listening to her clients, she became a busy and successful master colorist and stylist—eventually opening her own salon in the Lake Norman area where she made lasting relationships with hundreds of people.

Abi married her husband Dr. Bryan Blitstein in 2009 and helped raise his two boys, Brad and Max, who are now 22 and 26. A few years after their twins were born and her mother had been diagnosed with terminal cancer, Abi was encouraged by her mom and husband to get her real estate license.

“ is way,” Abi says, “I could have more exibility to raise the children and still have a ful lling career. It soon became apparent to me that I had found my real passion. I could now use my eye for fashion and style to assist clients in buying a home based upon what they desired, as well as nding a home that would hold its value in this competitive market. On the ip side, l am also able to assist seller clients with the staging of their current home to get the most value for it. I am constantly keeping up with current home trends and designs.”

When Abi’s not closing a deal or helping someone nd their dream home, she and her twins like to play tennis. e girls

have been playing since they were 4 years old, and Abi, working on her third year in the sport, is captain of the team at her local tennis club. O the court, they love to travel as a family and recently returned from a hiking trip in the Rockies. With preference for the mountains, Montana and Colorado are two of Abi’s favorite destinations. She and her husband also built a mountain home in Banner Elk for family getaways and as a vacation rental.

“I’m proud of becoming the daughter my mom raised me to be,” Abi concludes. “ e mom that teaches her own children the value of being strong, kind, happy, and to have an attitude of gratitude. I am also proud that I’m able to set my mind to any goal and achieve it in my professional life. e salon that I built in 2007, Chroma Salon, has a new owner and is still going strong today. My real estate career has taken o , and my new a liation with Ivester Jackson | Christie’s has placed me exactly where I need to be to ful ll my dreams as a luxury specialist in the Lake Norman community.” w

I could now use my eye for fashion and style to assist clients in buying a home based upon what they desired, as well as nding a home that would hold its value in this competitive market.

women move ON THE

Iredell Health System along with AMY BRANT, diabetes program manager, and ALYSSA

SHARP, dietitian, are pleased to announce that the American Diabetes Association has formally recognized Iredell Wellness & Diabetes Center through their Education Recognition Program. The Iredell Wellness & Diabetes Center has continuously maintained this recognition for 27 years by assuring the program always meets and exceeds national standards.

JEANETTE CRUMP, president and founder of Show Up Charlotte, announces their upcoming event scheduled for mid-October (date and time TBD) with the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Charlotte for their annual Buddy Walk. Show Up Charlotte is a social volunteering events company that helps people give back while having fun. Their events are held at venues with live music, swag bags, refreshments, and a volunteer activity benefitting a local nonprofit. For more information, visit www.ShowUp-Charlotte.com.

Smithville Community Coalition (SCC) is pleased to announce DAWNE KAKITSIS as the director of fundraising and marketing. Dawne was also selected as one of the Hometown Heroes by McIntosh Law Firm who honors and recognizes people who make a difference in our community. Dawne is responsible for strategizing and successfully executing SCC’s communications and marketing strategy, fundraising initiatives, and donor support.

FRANCES KNOX has received the Client’s Choice Award on Avvo. com for 2023. The Avvo Client’s Choice Award is given to those attorneys who receive five or more 4+ reviews in a calendar year. With over 100 5-star reviews on Avvo. com, Francis received the award for very high ratings in both legal ability and ethical standards and was recognized for her commitment to her clients and the community.

We would like to extend a big Lake Norman Woman welcome to new Mooresville resident KIRSTEN MCLENNAN, her husband Ryan, and their son Spencer. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, Kirsten is an author and a strong advocate for infertility awareness. After her own years of struggle and successful birth of son Spencer, she decided to write the book “This is Infertility” which is available through Amazon.

Novant Health has appointed DR. PAM OLIVER as executive vice president and chief medical officer. In this role, she will have oversight of safety and quality as well as credentialing and engagement of the medical staff across the Novant Health enterprise. Dr. Oliver previously served as executive vice president of Novant Health and president of the Novant Health Physician Network. She is a board-certified and practicing OB-GYN.

CONNECT WITH US!

Whether you are a woman on the move, new businesses in the area, or are willing to contribute your opinion, follow us on Facebook or e-mail leslie@lakenormanwoman.com.

Backpacks, school supplies, first-day jitters and early mornings are all part of a normal back-toschool routine. Unfortunately, so are germs. When illness strikes, we’re here for your entire family.

Put your trust in Iredell County’s largest and only nonprofit health system. You’ll be glad you did.

SEEING

double: double:

NATIONAL TWINS DAY!

Celebrating with the remarkable twin connection of the LKNW staff!

LESLIE:

“When I was having surgery as a teen, my twin, at home, was obsessed with water— drinking it, feeling it, watching it pour from the faucet. Little did she know I’d had an adverse reaction to medication and wasn’t allowed to drink anything; I was parched! I’d wet a wash cloth and watch and feel the water; I fantasized about it."

AUGUST 5TH IS NATIONAL

TWINS DAY and LKNW wants to celebrate! Our publisher, Dana Jordan, has identical-twin sons; senior sales representative Stephanie Sullivan has fraternal twins; and editor Leslie Ogle is an identical twin, was married to an identical twin, and has twin nephews. No doubt there is a fascination with the adorable duos and here are some reasons why:

For more information on twins, visit www.multiplesofamerica.org.

STEPHANIE:

1 2 3 4 5

Cryptophasia is the phenomenon of a language developed by twins that only the two children can understand. It occurs in about half of all twins, both fraternal and identical.

1 2 33 4 55

About 25 percent of identical twins develop directly facing each other, meaning they become exact reflections of one another (mirror twins).

Researchers from the University of Padova in Italy studied five sets of twins in the womb and noted that fetuses were just 14 weeks old when they began to interact with each other.

Women who have twins tend to live longer. One study found, “Women who gave birth to twins were very strong and healthy to begin with, so were likely to live longer lives.”

“

As we are moving into their senior year of high school (and they become official adults in October), they are still doing things they both love together.

I can’t believe I have two seniors and two almost-adults. They are such good kids and are now reaching for their dreams … we couldn’t be prouder! Going on the sixth year of marching band together, they like to share and do a lot of the same things but also cultivate their own independence."

DANA:

“Jordan and Ryan have learned to smile and wave at random people in public who smile and wave at them first. If they have no idea who the smiling, waving stranger is, they assume it’s either a friend of their twin or a crazy person. Either way, they’ve found it’s easier to just smile and wave rather than try to explain who they really are.” (Jordan is on the left, Ryan, right)

on A SOOTHING START: Although I began suffering with skin issues and acne around 13 years of age, I also discovered my future career as an esthetician. My mother took me to the dermatologist initially, and we tried all kinds of different acne medications, but nothing seemed to help. I was so self-conscious. That changed when I started seeing an esthetician. Every two weeks for several months, I went to see her for facials or chemical peels. She was amazing and genuinely cared about the appearance of my skin. The treatments helped with my acne and the scarring. I finally felt comfortable and proud of how I looked and knew right then I wanted to be an esthetician and help anyone who was struggling with their skin.

on HER DIVINE INSPIRATION: My parents exemplified a great work ethic … it was very rare for them to miss even a single day of work. The two of them sacrificed so much for me and were the ultimate providers. I admire how they saved and planned for the future. My mom suffered from migraines and went through two bouts of breast cancer during her career. My father constantly reminded me life isn’t fair and to always do my best. As a mom myself, I want to instill a good work ethic in my daughter, Mackenzie. She is kind, humble, and caring and makes me want to be the best person I can be.

on FINDING BEAUTY IN BUSY: I enjoy coming into the office because I love all the people I work with. We are truly like a family. It’s a pleasure getting to know my patients and helping them however I can –both on the neurology wellness side and the plastic surgery side of the practice. It can be challenging when I am wearing multiple hats at work but honestly, I wouldn’t have it any other way. It’s fulfilling to juggle all the aspects of my life – my weekdays are committed to ensuring that the office runs smoothly and that patients have a positive experience with us. At the end of the day, I try to focus on self-care and spending time with my favorite girls – Mackenzie and my fur baby, Daisy, a 12-year-old greyhound retired from racing.

on SAVORING THE SELF AND SEEING THE WORLD: It’s important to take time for yourself. I love exercising, getting my nails done, and having a relaxing massage once in a while. My friends are like extended family, and it’s always nurturing for my soul when I can spend time with them. I recently took a girl’s trip to Italy and Malta, and it was so refreshing to experience different cultures and savor the beauty of a new place. Both locations were absolutely gorgeous. And let’s be honest, I’ll take a vacay with my friends enjoying wonderful food and wine any day! w

Gabrielle Johnson is a licensed medical esthetician and practice manager at Harborview Plastic Surgery and Neurology in Cornelius. She can be reached at 704.896.5806 or online at riouplasticsurgery.com.

LKNW RECOGNIZES A WOMAN DOING EXCEPTIONAL WORK IN THE LAKE NORMAN COMMUNITY, A LEADER WHO IS PAVING THE WAY TO CHANGING OUR ATTITUDES AND INSPIRING CONFIDENCE IN THE FUTURE.

Johnson Gabrielle

5 Co-Parenting Tips for the Back-to-School Season

By Robin M. Mermans, Esq., Owner of ROAD to RESOLUTION

AS THE SUMMER SEASON IS WINDING DOWN,

parents are getting ready for another school year. For separated and divorced parents, this means adding a few extra steps in the process of sending kids back to school. My husband and I are empty nesters now, but it seems like just yesterday we were coordinating the schedules of our five kids with our coparenting partners. As a mom and stepmom, I completely understand how difficult it can be, yet as a Collaborative Family Law attorney and trained co-parenting coach, I also know that it’s possible to get a system in place. As a way to share guidance with you and your family, here are five expert tips for co-parents ahead of the new school year.

We’re Here to Help

ASSIGN TASKS TO EACH PARENT

Identify each parent’s strength when it comes to academic subjects. Assigning tasks to each parent is a great way to make sure all parents, even stepparents, are included in your child’s education. Your child can then reach out to any member of their family for help with schoolwork.

CREATE A PARENTING BACKPACK

Just like your child has a backpack, co-parents might find one beneficial too. This backpack – or even a folder – can alternate between homes with your child. This bag includes things that are related to your child that you may need as parents.

CONSIDER A CO-PARENTING APP

An easy way to get organized and have both parents involved is by downloading a co-parenting scheduling app that engages both parents and ensures everyone is on the same page. We’re not endorsing any of these apps, but some popular ones are OurFamilyWizard, Cozi, FamCal, and WeParent.

FIGURE OUT TRANSPORTATION

Just as you coordinate your child’s schedule, you’ll need to figure out the transportation component too. This schedule should include everything from the bus stop schedule as well as parent pick-ups and dropoffs to and from school and extracurricular activities.

GIVE GRACE WHEN NEEDED

Flexibility is essential when co-parenting. Many situations are out of our control, including schedules that might change due to no fault of our own. If your co-parent asks for help or requests an adjustment due to an unforeseen circumstance, give them grace.

ROAD to RESOLUTION can help you effectively navigate co-parenting during your separation and divorce journey. Please give us a call at (980) 260-1600 and we can discuss co-parenting education and guidance options before, during, and after divorce.

Robin M. Mermans is a Collaborative attorney, certified mediator, and co-parenting coach. She owns ROAD to RESOLUTION: Divorce Mediation and Collaborative Family Law, in Charlotte. With her unique perspective as an attorney, mother, and stepmother, she is an expert in shared parenting solutions and co-parenting guidance. She is committed to using her personal story and passion to help her clients save time and money, while avoiding unnecessary emotional turmoil during their divorce journey and on their road to resolution.

980.260.1600

ROADtoRESOLUTION.com

SUMMER BERRY delight

WE’VE ENTERED THE DOG DAYS OF summer, which makes this light, simple, and delicious dessert perfect for just about any occasion.

angel food

TRIFLE

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups strawberries

1 cup blackberries

1 cup raspberries

1 cup blueberries

1 pint whipping cream

1/4 cup sugar

1/2 tsp vanilla

1 store-purchased angel food cake

TO PREPARE:

1 Slice strawberries and rinse all berries in a colander, then mix all berries.

2 In a large mixing bowl, beat whipping cream on high until soft peaks almost form. Add sugar and vanilla and continue beating until peaks form, about 30 seconds. (Be careful: Over mixing causes whipping cream to lose its creamy smooth texture)

3 Tear the angel food cake into large pieces and layer them at the bottom of a clear glass bowl (trifle bowls are perfect!).

4 Add berries, then the whipping cream. Repeat three times.

5 Top with a garnish of whipping cream and berries.

The DearingPromiseTeam

WE ARE PERSISTENT.

We will always find a way. We create innovative opportunities and deliver solutions. We don’t sit and wait. We take initiative and follow up, follow through and follow back. We are relentless and accountable. We stick to our promises.

WE ARE PASSIONATE.

We love what we do and we have fun doing it. We stay positive and energetic no matter what comes our way. We have a drive to help others which keeps us motivated to constantly learn and evolve. We believe every person and every interaction matters.

WE ARE AUTHENTIC.

It’s more than just the transaction; it’s about forming lasting relationships. Our clients mean everything to us and we respond to them with honesty, patience and empathy throughout the entire process.

that's what said HE

DR. AERIK WILLIAMS, ALLERGY PARTNERS

MY CHOSEN PATH

During my residency at omas Je erson Hospital — where I also served as a chief resident — I had a natural inclination to the eld of Allergy and Immunology. e pathophysiology of allergic disease sparked my curiosity and I therefore spent most of my time in my mentor’s allergy clinic evaluating asthma, allergies, and performing clinical research. It still fascinates me, and my patients make the work so rewarding.

SEEKING SUCCESS, FINDING PEACE

spoiler alert:

MEN AND WOMEN ARE DIFFERENT. Ok, so maybe that fact didn’t really surprise you. After all, it’s been 28 years since John Gray popularized the idea that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. And as much as we love sharing women’s stories, we decided it was time to lend the Martians of LKN our ear, too. This month we share the perspectives of Dr. Aerik Williams of Allergy Partners.

SPORTS IN MY BLOOD

Athletics has always been a cornerstone of my life. I grew up in Ohio (Go Buckeyes!), but I went to college at Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore where I served as captain of the varsity soccer team for two years. I later swapped my cleats for golf clubs, but I still nd time to be active and stay t. I recently opened Shoot 360 Charlotte, a cutting-edge basketball training and workout facility for athletes of all ages and abilities. I love helping people achieve success — on and o the court.

A BLESSED BESTIE

My wife, Lindsey, is my best friend, my inspiration. She left the corporate world behind to open a winery and never looked back. She’s now a fully-certi ed sommelier and her shop, Davidson Wines, is the rst urban wine shop in Davidson. To see her in her element with sta , customers, and vendors makes me feel like the proudest man alive.

FAMILY RULES

Our son, Max, is as much of a sports fan as I am. We can be pretty competitive when we play pick-up basketball games, but that’s just part of the fun! Sports has taught both of us how important it is to be a good team player, and to show up — even on days when you’re not feeling it. Giving it your all is the best any of us can do.

As I’ve gotten older, I’ve realized that the de nition of success isn’t about traditional wealth or some arbitrary amount of money. It’s about happiness and nding a sense of peace in your life. I truly believe success is achievable for goal-oriented people who see the life-altering value of relationships — and by putting those relationships above everything else.

THE SOLACE OF HEALING WORDS

One of my wife’s favorite scriptures is Matthew 25:40 where it says, "Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me." I’ve adopted this as my mantra as well. It keeps us grounded as we navigate through life and its constant ebbs and ows. ose words remind me that nurturing others is also an act of self-care. Giving back is everything. w

Dr. Aerik Williams is an allergy and immunology physician with Allergy Partners located at 20808 North Main Street, Suite 102, in Cornelius. You can reach Dr. Williams and the entire team at 704.765.4430 or online at www.AllergyPartners.com.

WORDS matter

Words are magic. They actually change our brain chemistry! As wordsmiths here at LKNW, we are especially fond of words that will resonate with our readers, in hopes they will help guide & inspire you.

is the most powerful weapon which you can use to

We know how busy life can get—kids, work, family, friends … sometimes just getting dinner on the table is a Herculean feat! So in an effort to save our readers some time, effort, and money here are a few tips, tricks, and hacks that might come in handy in your busy world!

Easy 3-Ingredient Cheesecake

Just mix two boxes (8 ounces each) of softened cream cheese with one 7-ounce jar of marshmallow cream (marshmallow u ) and one teaspoon vanilla. Put in graham cracker crust, chill for a couple hours, then you can top with any favorite jams/fruit if desired.

Groovy Grilled Cheese

Take your grilled cheese sandwich to a new level by swapping butter for a light layer of mayonnaise and a sprinkle of garlic salt on the outside of your bread … YUM!

TIPS, & HACKS

back in the

Make Savory

More Savory

edition kitchen

Anytime a recipe calls for water, use chicken broth instead. And combine with water when boiling for pasta, potatoes, rice, etc. It will add a lot of rich avor and texture.

Best Sauce Secret

Add pureed or shredded carrots and a few tablespoons of butter to your homemade or jarred tomato sauce. It really cuts the acidity and gives it a richer avor and texture.

Perfect Pancakes

For u er pancakes/wa es, replace about half the water in the batter with seltzer or another carbonated beverage, such as ginger ale or Sprite.

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.

IT'S A SIGN!

USING astrology

Positive TO STAY

YOUR MARS SIGN IN YOUR BIRTH CHART IS IMPORTANT. It shows you how to achieve your best vitality and strength. Mars is what gives us our physicality … it’s how we take action, and it represents our drives and impulses. The sign it falls in tells us how we need to use that energy—if we don’t do what we need, we can get depressed so it’s important we use “Our Mars.”

Your birth chart is made by looking at the position of the planets on the exact time, location, and date of your birth. That chart is your unique horoscope. If you want to find out where Mars is in your birth chart, you can use a free online calculator or download a free astrology app to find out. Meanwhile, here is what your Mars sign needs:

Having studied astrology for years and attending e London University of Astrology, Emmaleen Muldoon now works with clients here in Lake Norman and all over the world to analyze their birth chart. Connect with Emmaleen on social media or visit www.emmaleensastrology.com.

Mars in Aries: You need to be pioneering—take action, challenge yourself. and think up ideas. You need to compete.

Mars in Taurus: You need stability, a long steady growth. Building material security is where your energy shines.

Mars in Gemini: Words are your tools. Use them! Debates, book clubs, conversations … get your thoughts out there. Use your energy with anything that involves your hands— making, fixing, playing a musical instrument.

Mars in Cancer: Putting your energy into taking care, nurturing, and helping others is great, but be sure to take time for yourself, too; put a routine in place to avoid getting into a rut.

Mars in Leo: Your life needs significance and meaning … you need to shine. Act with your heart.

Mars in Virgo: Being productive and organized is important. Putting action around a routine will feel good and help steer away nervous energy.

Mars in Libra: Resolution and diplomacy is important. Keeping the peace will feel good but remember

not to keep it all in. If you want to say something, don’t bottle it up.

Mars in Scorpio: You need to have something passionate in your life. That intensity you have has to burn in a way that drives your interests and pursuits. Delving deep into subjects is important for you and not accepting what you hear on face value.

Mars in Sagittarius: Your need to explore and travel is important. Challenge yourself physically and mentally; it’s also good to exercise daily.

Mars in Capricorn: One of the strongest Mars placements, you can achieve anything you set your mind to. Setting a challenge and finishing it is exciting.

Mars in Aquarius: Living an independent life is important and having the chance to be original and innovative. Fighting for a cause can be fulfilling.

Mars in Pisces: Apply energy on an ebb-andflow basis … you’re super sensitive to energy around you and you know your limits. Don’t let yourself withdraw too much. Solitude is good for regeneration but guard against doing it too much.

Lake Internal Medicine and Pediatrics

Dr. Josephine Lake has been practicing in the Lake Norman area for more than 20 years and left corporate medicine 2 years ago to start a solo office where she can truly deliver warm, compassionate and outstanding care to a limited number of patients.

(704) 274-8006

SMALL MEMBER-BASED CLINIC TREATING NEWBORN THROUGH ADULT:

Unrushed visits and ample time with Dr. Lake

No wait times

Same day or next day appointments with no copay or additional billing

Easy access to the care team by phone, email and patient portal 24/7

All visits and procedures, along with most labs covered with the membership fee

Complete confidentiality, always

Corporate discounts available

CLINIC: 13801 Reese Blvd West, Ste 150, Huntersville, NC 28078

HOURS: Monday-Friday, 8:30am to 5:30pm

EMAIL: clinic.northcharlotte@healthgram.com

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