Lake Norman Woman Magazine - January 2019 by Lake Norman Woman Magazine

Just DO it! featuring

KELLEY IRELAND OF VILLAGE REAL ESTATE

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FIND US ON

LAKE

NORMAN

V O L U M E

X I I

WOMAN

N U M B E R

V I I

from the

team PUBLISHER

DANA NIETERS dana@lakenormanwoman.com

“ YO U ’ R E N O T PA C K I N G T H E S E ! ” I shrilled at my mother as I removed

the seven chargers for phones that she no longer owned from a moving box. She snatched them from my hand and tossed them back in, asserting, “I might need them. If not, I can sell them at a yard sale for a dollar.” This scenario repeated itself 823 times as we boxed up the miscellany (think food containers with no lids and bags of washcloths I’m certain we used in the ‘70s) my mother had accumulated over the years in preparation for her recent move.

When it comes to physical stuff, I am much more of a thrower-outer than a keeper. I get rid of everything. High school yearbooks? Gone. Letters from the boyfriend who broke my heart in 1984? Tossed (well, burned actually). That pair of skinny jeans that didn’t fit my not-so-skinny back side? Ditched. I’m afraid to tell you this one because I fear you’ll think I’m a heartless monster, but… those “works of art” created with beans, macaroni, and toilet paper rolls by my children? Yea…long gone. My purging obsession comes back to bite me on occasion when shortly after disposing of something I find myself desperately needing it. Or worse yet, when my husband desperately needs an object I have discarded unbeknownst to him, and I find myself frantically searching on eBay for an identical replacement. The first time he inquired of a “missing” item, I directed him to the Goodwill where I had dropped it off, but that seemed to make him angry. So now I keep quiet, employ distraction techniques worthy of a master magician…and pray for expedited shipping. So why do I have such a hard time ridding myself of the rubbish I carry around on the inside? Just like the clutter my mom is not sure what to do with but isn’t ready to let go of, my mind, too, holds on to things of questionable value. The difference though, is unlike the markers that only work when you lick the end of them and the sporks from Bojangles, the junk I hang on to can cause real damage. Even so, I open my mental junk drawer daily and sort through its soulsucking components: memories that are better left in the past, all my “should have’s” and “ought to be’s,” lists about what I deserve and what I have missed out on, and the burning question of “What is WRONG with me?” that lights up in my mind like a blinking beacon. Opening that drawer is a killjoy—it makes me feel as if I’m stuck watching a movie of my worst moments play over and over. So, while I’m not a fan of New Year’s resolutions (the guilt from not sticking to them typically winds up in said drawer), it is time to purge the jumbled mess in my head. Like those obsolete phone chargers taking up space in my mother’s drawer, I’m going to toss the emotional debris spilling from mine. Yes, it will be much harder to box up than the stuff at my mother’s, and I’m certain I won’t be able to donate it…but maybe Mom can get a dollar for it at her next yard sale? w

DANA NIETERS PUBLISHER

EDITOR

LESLIE OGLE

leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

STEPHANIE SULLIVAN

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE

MICHELE SCHUERMANN michele@lakenormanwoman.com

ART DIRECTOR

CHELSEA BREN

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGED BY CAROLINA CONSULT, LLC

JANUARY CONTRIBUTORS:

Cyndy Etler; Michelle Love; Dr. Lindsey Mashburn; Starr Miller; Dr. Wissam Nadra CONTACT US:

704.895.6168

PO BOX 1000 | CORNELI US, NC | 28031

W W W. L A K E N O R M A N W O M A N . C O M

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ads@lakenormanwoman.com Lake Norman Woman reserves the right to deny any advertisement or listing that does not meet Lake Norman Woman standards. Submissions are welcome but unsolicited materials are not guaranteed to be returned. Lake Norman Woman assumes no responsibility for information, products, services, or statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. An advertised special printed in this publication is subject to change without notice. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part without written permission from the publisher is prohibited.

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FEATURES

DON'T SHOOT THE MESSENGER

HERE SHE IS: Kristie Hogan

LEADING THE WAY: Barbra Bryan

COVER STORY: Vocation,Vocation,Vocation!

WOMAN TO WATCH: Dr. Brittany Flaherty

SUCCESS STORY: Choose Happy

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{

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ON THE COVER: KELLEY IRELAND OF VILLAGE REAL ESTATE

WO ME N O N T H E MOV E 5 T H IN G S TO D O IN JAN UARY

30 32

SC E N E W IT H LK NW

p HEALTH

HOME

Just Do It, Ladies!

10 Signs You May Have An Underactive Thyroid

Don't Shoot The Messenger

"A Man Who Is His Own Lawyer Has A Fool For A Client"

SELF 10

8 THINGS: 8 Interesting But Completely Unimportant Facts

Do You Need A Wintervention?

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT: Want To Change Your Life?

INTERESTING BUT COMPLETELY UNIMPORTANT FACTS

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8 things

SELF

Bacon was used to make explosives during World War I. Guinness estimates that 93,000 liters of beer are lost in facial hair each year in Great Britain alone.

A hummingbird weighs less than a penny.

8 interesting facts

The term “Jay,” in the early 20th century, meant a foolish person, hence when a pedestrian didn’t cross at a crosswalk, he was dubbed a “jaywalker.”

BUT COMPLETELY UNIMPORTANT The hardest substance in the human body is the tooth.

In honor of National Trivia Day on January 4th, here are eight interesting but completely unimportant facts you can impress your neighbors with! A group of ﬂamingos is called a ﬂamboyance.

A sneeze zooms out of your mouth at over 600 mph. In Japan, letting a sumo wrestler make your baby cry is considered good luck.

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FEATURE

here she is

kristie

hogan

HOMETOWN: CHARLOTTE

LKN TOWN: DAVIDSON

HOUSEHOLD:

HUSBAND BRUCE— A D U LT C H I L D R E N ADAM (33), JOE (31), KALI (22)

What has been your most life-altering event? My mission trips to Honduras

have been life-changing experiences! To see how these Hondurans have absolutely nothing, but keep a smile on their faces is so inspiring. They are hard workers and love their family and friends, and are happy without all the “stuff.” It creates motivation to live in the moment and love those around you.

What do you know for sure? I believe we’re all here for a reason, and each of us has our place. I think we need to work on staying positive and just be happy! When I’m faced with challenges, I place it in God’s hands. He has my story written from beginning to end. I know He has a great plan for me! I hold strong to my faith. What is your passion? I love serving others. I know it sounds cheesy, but I’ve been through some rough times and feel that I’m extremely blessed in this season of life. I search out ways to help others. My husband, Bruce, and I serve the Charlotte homeless every other Saturday. We also love to surprise people with paid dinners. I even give my students an envelope containing a small amount of money, and around the holidays I ask them to go spread some love. I love hearing their stories of how they have helped people. How do you unwind? Bruce and I love

i am an LKNw oman because…

“I am from Charlotte, but my mom is from Mooresville, and her mom is from Mooresville, so our roots run deep in the Lake Norman area!”

to travel. I close the school each year during the week of Thanksgiving, and that is when we head to the Caribbean! We are still searching for that perfect beachfront shack somewhere to retire. Bruce says when he retires and we’re living in the Caribbean, he’s going to get a bicycle with a small cooler and sell ice cream to the locals. I’m going to be a dive master/ massage therapist – I think we have a great retirement plan! Kristie Hogan is the owner of NC Massage School located at 20525 North Main Street in Cornelius. Kristie is also the director of education at the school and can be reached at 704.896.2636 or via www.ncmassageschool.com.

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WRITER MICHELLE LOVE

PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

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health

JUST DO IT IT, T,

ladiess! ladie

hat does that phrase mean in the ﬁeld of women’s health and aesthetics? It happens to mean a lot. Every day I see women who have put up with health and aesthetics concerns for so long—from terrible periods, hormonal hot ﬂashes, acne, intimacy problems, tummy bulges, saddle bags to lines and wrinkles. There are so many reasons that we women put off taking care of ourselves. We are often times taking care of others; we say we don’t have time; we feel guilty about doing something for ourselves; we fear the solution more than the problem, and the list goes on and on. WRITER DR. LINDSEY MASHBURN

This self-neglect impacts so many areas of our lives. We go to the pool with our kids who beg us to get in and instead we sit on the side in our cover-up. Weekend plans are canceled because it’s that time of the month. We get out of the way of the camera and one day we will probably regret that. Intimacy just doesn’t happen. We don’t exercise as often or as vigorously as we should. We try everything on the internet for hot flashes, then give up and just deal with it. L K N e x p e rt

Dr. Lindsey Mashburn is board certified by the American Board of Obstetrics and Gynecology and is a Fellow of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. A Cornelius native, Dr. Mashburn is a practicing physician at South Lake Women's Healthcare, 19453 West Catawba Ave., Suite A, in Cornelius. You may reach them at 704.896.9912 or visit www.southlakewomens.com.

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I see these examples every day. But I also see women taking on their problems and living life to the fullest. That is where I get my biggest joys in my profession. I have so many solutions available for so many different problems, and it feels amazing to provide a better quality of life for someone. So from an aesthetics standpoint, if there is something that bothers you every time you look in the mirror then it is time to do something about that. If you baked in the sun with baby oil and tin foil and now have sunspots to show for it, then forgive yourself and let’s find a solution. Did you know that treating wrinkles can even make you feel better emotionally? We live in an amazing lake community and I know that some women out there aren’t

enjoying it because they don’t want their tummy or their cellulite to show. How about let’s work on getting rid of that tummy or cellulite? Whether with weight management or with SmartLipo. Then let’s get out there and enjoy life! Women are better about going to the doctor than men, but sometimes we still put up with the same old problems for years. One of my favorite procedures is the 24-hour downtime endometrial ablation to reduce heavy periods. I have had numerous patients who have cancelled plans and scheduled vacations around periods. Then the ablation freed them from that burden. And hormones. Ladies, you do not have to suffer through menopause—the hot flashes, mood swings, intimacy issues, etc. Treating menopausal symptoms often has many other health benefits as well like lower risk of colon cancer, osteoporosis, cardiovascular disease, and type 2 diabetes. And when it comes to intimacy, please don’t just grin and bear it. Enjoy it again, without pain. So, what is holding you back from living your best life? Figure it out, then Just Do It. Address the problem, move on, and love the freedom. w

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LKNW FEATURE

leading

the way As we rise into leadership roles, it’s not always easy to navigate the leadership path. After all, there are as many leadership traits as there are leaders. LKN Woman talks to area leaders in the hope that we can learn from each other’s successes and failures in confronting leadership challenges. BARBRA BRYAN, On-Site Owner, The Goddard School of Mooresville

Too often business is all about doing what your head tells you to do rather than your heart. But Barbra Bryan, the on-site owner of The Goddard School of Mooresville, knows that a great leader is only as good as the team around her. As such, she leads with her heart, knowing that the key to unleashing a team’s full potential is to put people first. Leading heart first isn’t always easy, though. After all, it requires the courage to say “no,” the courage to stand alone at times, and the courage to stick to your principles, no matter what. But according to Barbra, good leaders will not only face those challenges head on, they will tap into their own courage to help their team members see the big picture and overcome their own fears. And, she notes, a truly courageous leader doesn’t seek the spotlight, instead giving others the opportunity for accomplishment and growth by allowing them to perform tasks that they could do better. She adds: “They quietly know they are making a difference in the lives around them and get great personal satisfaction from that knowledge.”

H E R DE F IN ITION OF LEADERSHIP:

A leader is someone who creates an environment that allows others to accomplish things they may have thought were impossible by inspiring, coaching, challenging, providing vision, and clarifying purpose.”

life as a leader w

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FIRST JOB:

at K-Mart

Cashier

CAREER HIGHLIGHT:

I found my passion, early learning, and in following it, built a successful preschool.

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As a role model for the children at her preschool, there is a lot of pressure on Barbra to get leadership right. After all, her attitude and example have the potential to affect their habits and perspectives throughout their lives. But, according to Barbra, they have just as much of an impact on her own perspective. “When, on a daily basis, you see children laughing until their bellies hurt, and then a little bit more, you learn not to take yourself too seriously!” she explains. Of course that doesn’t mean that Barbra isn’t aware that her role is an important one, which is why she makes certain to learn from the experience when mistakes are made. “I’ve learned to understand before I could be understood; to create a work environment that inspires; to listen. And perhaps most importantly, I’ve learned to lead by going first—to feel the fear and do it anyway!” w

IN THREE WORDS I’M: passionate,

curious, a builder. BIGGEST WORK PET PEEVE: Lack of

persistence. Oh, and passwords. I hate having to remember all those user IDs and passwords!

MY HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS WOULD DESCRIBE ME AS: Smart,

but an underachiever; stubborn and creative. WHEN I PUNCH OUT:

I ride my horse and spend time at the barn with him. WRITER DANA NIETERS

I WISH I HAD MORE TIME TO: Spend at the barn,

learn to paint, and travel.

FIRST LEADERSHIP POSITION: Distribution

Center and Area Sales

Manager

PHOTOGRAPHER TONI LOVEJOY

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health

January is National Thyroid Awareness Month

10 SIGNS YOU MAY HAVE AN

Underactive Thyroid 1

Fatigue, even after 8 to 10 hours of recuperative sleep

3 4 have a thyroid issue, and 90 percent of those are diagnosed with hypothyroidism, or underactive thyroid. The thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in the center of the neck (in front of your wind pipe). As part of the endocrine system, it is responsible for many bodily functions, such as regulating body temperature, heart rate, digestion, and metabolism. If your thyroid is not functioning properly, neither are you. Here are 10 signs of an underactive thyroid:

NEARLY 25 MILLION AMERICANS

Depression or anxiety

Unusual muscle or joint pain

Excessive hair loss

8 10

Problems concentrating

Unexplained weight gain or inability to lose weight

Overly dry skin or brittle nails

Prolonged constipation

Cold hands and feet or body temperature consistently below 98.5

If you have concerns, consult your physician. For more information on hypothyroidism, visit www.webmd.com.

FUTURE OF ROCK CONCERT SATURDAY, FEBRUARY 9 4:00-9:00PM Featuring more than 25 student bands! Split into 3 sets - come anytime you want! Open to the public - FREE admission Rocky Mount United Methodist Church, Mooresville

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Swelling in neck area

ÂŠ Kamil Macniak Dreamstime.com

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health

don’t shoot the WRITER DR. WISSAM NADRA

IT WAS NOT EASY DECIDING TO WRITE THIS EDITORIAL. Recently, there has been

L K N e x p e rt

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

an increase in complaints and negative public reviews of physicians and/or physician offices. People find it very easy to click a button on social media and proceed to “trash” a practice. As a physician who values giving our patients the best possible service, it sickens me to no end when someone has a negative customer experience. We all deserve the best when it comes to our healthcare. However, since I too am a consumer of healthcare, I found myself in the same predicament. This occurred not too long ago when I received a bill from a healthcare facility for services rendered by their system (hospital or physician). I found myself upset about the amount charged to me. There have been some drastic changes in the health insurance industry lately. Even though we have a larger selection of health insurance plans to choose from, as consumers, the medical coverage has shrunk. This in turn has resulted in the situation where patients are responsible for higher copays, coinsurances, and deductibles. My advice as a physician is for everyone to understand what their medical coverage actually entails. Many of us are being lured by low monthly premiums but don’t understand our coverage. Hence, we are sometimes limited in terms of who we can see as our medical provider. My intentions are not to malign insurance companies because we

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are all active participants in what is happening in the healthcare field. The main point to get across is for us to ask more questions of our medical insurance agents, companies, and medical providers in order to understand our coverage. As consumers, we are ultimately responsible for the decisions that we make. Please understand that your medical providers are always there to give you the best medical care. However, they are not always aware of what your medical coverage may be. This is because within one insurance company, there are multiple tiers of coverage. Thus, we all need to do our homework. So the next time you receive a bill from a medical facility/physician’s office, take the time to contact them and inquire about your statement. They are there to partner with you to take care of your health. Finally, I want to wish everyone a happy, healthy, and prosperous new year. The health of our patients is and always will be our number one priority. w

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FEATURE

cover story

, N O I T A C O V

! n o i t a Voc

, N O I T VOCA K

ssmates is the type who her cla elley Ireland asks for hat annoying—teacher might consider somew s for r hand up. Teacher ask questions? Kelley has he ses who sen ent. She’s also the type input? Kelley has a comm plunks le, sty ‘em th her go-getwi m ble pro a ve ha u yo that ing within you, and gets you laugh to xt ne t sea the in lf herse d counting. ur BFF for 13 years an yo s ain rem d an … tes minu stie, Lori.) (True story. Ask her be e, “I built proudly reel off lines lik can o wh e typ the o als She’s re high-end ich led to building mo wh , 24 at me ho rst fi my the ‘make for two years, playing m the ng ldi ho d an s home n moved capital gains’ game. I the a hefty profit and avoid off, then m the g lin iding and sel div sub ls, rce pa g yin bu into s and commercial residential subdivision y all ntu eve d an s, ab reh nt.” planning and developme WRITER CYNDY ETLER

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PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

She drops more multisyllabic words like “infrastructure planning,” “governing boards and agencies,” and “brokerages” before she pivots, deems herself a real estate egghead, and shares some of the painful family struggles she endured in her youth.

"II know how important my role is when making a high- dollar decision decision,, so I take care of my clients with the respect & attention they deserve." deserve

Then she laughs and says, “Sorry for rambling—you didn’t ask for all this info! I just couldn’t stop!” Remember that old Pantene commercial, “Don’t hate me because I’m beautiful”? Kelley makes it modern: “Don’t hate me because I’m a business whiz.” And whiz she is. When asked for her insights on selling real estate, she says that the best thing one can do— while following ethical and legal protocols—is to think outside the box and make one’s own rules. Listen closely now, as Kelley spills the tea. Describing her own best practices, she says, “I never advertise in real estate magazines. I don’t believe in open houses, as there’s proof they don’t sell homes … that they’re actually just lead generators. I don’t pick just one neighborhood or price point. Instead, I find things that make me stand out from the crowd.” Do you not love a gal who sees the truth behind the lace curtain, then shares it with the rest of us? When gearing up to spend hundreds of thousands of dollar bills, we want to feel unequivocal trust in the person guiding our decisions. Spearing the sacred cows of the industry is a quick way to gain trust, for sure. JANUARY 2019 |

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Kelley recognizes the importance of trust, and that’s why her firm, Village Real Estate Group, is a one-woman show. “I wanted to have an intimate boutique-style brokerage where I work directly with my clients to accomplish their goals. I answer their calls— not a secretary or answering service or team member who might not know all the details. I know their situation thoroughly, and work with them start to finish. I’ve been both buyer and seller many times with my money on the line. I know how important my role is when making a high-dollar decision, so I take care of my clients with the respect and attention they deserve.” When she first started her business, she signed other brokers to work with her and quickly realized that she did not like being a manager because it took her away from what she loves: being hands-on with clients. This commitment brings her the results she craves. “I have entire families that have trusted me through the years to help them buy, sell, and lease properties. Most of my clients have become good friends.” She also gets results in the form of awards. Big ones. Lots of them. This year, Forbes honored her as a “Five Star Real Estate Market Leader.” She’s earned the cover spot and title of featured agent in Top Agent magazine; was a 2010 “featured company” in Forbes and has won Charlotte Magazine’s “Best in Client Satisfaction” designation for the past nine years. Just a summary, then … Kelley Ireland is a real estate doyen who is so obsessed with meeting clients’ needs, she has to be a team of one. She breaks the mold, tells the whole truth, wins awards, and shares her knowledge with the newbies. Thanks, Kelley! w

Kelley’ s Secrets to Becoming a Real Estate Success If you’re interested in becoming

a real estate agent, Kelley’s the guru you need. It’s your lucky day because she has some tips for you:

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• Start with a company that can give you lots of training and guidance.

• Learn how a home is built; become familiar with all the parts and pieces.

• Work with lenders to understand how that ﬁts into the sales end of the transaction.

• Put your clients’ best interests ﬁrst— this will get you more business than you can handle!

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women on the

move MARTHA-ANN MARLEY, a 30year veteran of the surety industry, has announced the opening of her ﬁrm, M.A. Surety LLC, in Mooresville. The company offers surety bonds and management consulting services for commercial contractors.

CHERENE CARACO is the founder and CEO of Promise Resource Network, Inc., which is a local nonproﬁt that uses the experiences and resilience of people who have overcome trauma, mental health issues, substance abuse, and related barriers to elevate recovery and ignite social change.

KATHLEEN BURKINSHAW, a Japanese American author from Charlotte, announces her historical novel, The Last Cherry Blossom (Sky Pony Press, 2016), was nominated for the 2019 NC School Library Media Association’s YA Book Award. The book, based on events in Kathleen’s mother’s life, follows a 12-year-old girl in Hiroshima during WWII.

The Freedom Stone, a new middle grade novel by Cornelius resident, JUDI HOWE, is a story about the triumph of family, friendship, and courage. The story transports young readers into the everyday lives, joys, and fears of enslaved people living on a Virginia tobacco plantation in the 1850s. Woven through the story is meticulously researched history, so there is also a teacher’s guide available with the book.

CONNECT Whether you are a woman on the move, looking WITH US! for events, new businesses in the area, or are

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willing to contribute your opinion, follow us by visiting www.facebook.com/lakenormanwoman or e-mail leslie@lakenormanwoman.com.

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calendar

5 THINGS AN LKN

OMAN SHOULD DO IN JANUARY

F R I D A Y, J A N . 1 8 S U N D A Y, J A N . 2 7

T U E S D A Y, J A N . 1

FIRST FOOTIN’ 2019

Start 2019 off right with a vigorous walk around the farm’s 2.25 mile trail, with stops along the way to discuss history and folklore and celebrate the Scottish New Year. Potluck lunch follows.

FREE | 10am-1pm Rural Hill Farm | 130 N. Tryon St. | Charlotte More information: www.ruralhillfarm.com

QUEEN’S FEAST: CHARLOTTE RESTAURANT WEEK

Savor new experiences and favorite spots as more than 125 of the best restaurants in the Greater Charlotte area offer three courses at dinner for just $30 or $35 per person.

$30 - $35/person Various restaurants in Greater Charlotte area More information: http://charlotterestaurantweek. iheart.com

S A T U R D A Y, J A N . 1 9

DR. MARTIN LUTHER KING, JR. PARADE

This annual parade includes more than 100 community organizations, plus marching bands, step and drill teams, local performance groups, and ﬂoats with the student winners of the CMS’ MLK Art and Writing Contests.

FREE | 10am-12pm Center City Charlotte | N. Tryon St. and 10th Street More information: https://charlottenc.gov/crc/MLKevents

F R I D A Y, J A N . 2 5 S U N D A Y, J A N . 2 7

47TH ANNUAL MID-ATLANTIC BOAT SHOW & SALE

This is the place to get your family ready for the boating season. Showcasing all aspects of watersports including pleasure boating, skiing, ﬁshing, real estate, docks, boat lifts, and swimwear, this year offers more than ever.

$10 | Times Vary Charlotte Convention Center 501 S. College St. | Charlotte More information: www.midatlanticboatshow.com

F R I D A Y & S A T U R D A Y, J A N . 2 5 - 2 6

ASC CONNECT WITH CULTURE DAYS

Bring your family and friends to various organizations in Charlotte for two days of arts and culture adventure. Visit the website for schedule and locations at www.artsandscience.org and search “ASC Connect With Culture Days.”

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FREE | Times Vary Various locations around Charlotte More information: www.artsandscience.org

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Scene WITH

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LKNW’s Stephanie with Debra Blanton of The Shoppes at Home, Heart & Soul 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

Kelley Ireland, owner of Village Real Estate Group, and LKNW’s Chelsea & Stephanie at a photoshoot in November

LKNW staff enjoying some much-deserved pampering at Rock Barn Country Club & Spa

“SCENE WITH LAKE NORMAN WOMAN!”

Scene photos

on our Facebook page at: Lake Norman Woman

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Dr. Peter McIlveen and the North Carolina Weight & Wellness team at their ribbon cutting and open house celebration in October

LKNW’s Stephanie with Anna Stowe, owner of Great Design 4 U, at an open house in November

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FEATURE

woman to watch on GETTING HERE: I grew up in Scranton, Pennsylvania, where I met my ﬁancé, Cory. We have been together since I was 15 years old. I went to college at Penn State University and studied biomedical engineering. I then went on to optometry school in Philadelphia at Pennsylvania College of Optometry. I moved to North Carolina in 2014 to complete my residency at the VA hospital in Salisbury. on TEAM EFFORTS: I see it as two-fold—I have my team of support from Cory, my family, and friends. The other piece is my work team; I have an amazing staff! Leisa is my ofﬁce manager, and I would not be successful without her. We support each other every day and match our strengths to help the other’s weaknesses. Monocle Eye Care would not be in existence if Leisa was not on my team.

dr. brittany flaherty Monocle Eye Care And Eyewear Gallery CORNELIUS, NC

on GIVING BACK: While at Penn State, I traveled to Nyeri, Kenya, a remote village east of Nairobi, to connect local people who were unable to afford medical care to doctors in the larger, more developed cities. My role was to design medical equipment that would be sourced locally and used to collect patient health information. I also used my optometry background and worked with people in need in El Salvador by providing eye care and glasses. While in Charlotte, I worked with Metrolina Association for the Blind (MAB), a local nonproﬁt organization. Here I worked with patients who have low vision as a result of congenital or acquired eye diseases. These appointments focus on educating patients about their vision loss and developing strategies to utilize specialized devices to meet goals speciﬁc to their needs.

brittany

DR. FLAHERTY

LKNW RECOGNIZES A WOMAN DOING EXCEPTIONAL WORK IN THE LAKE N O R M A N C O M M U N I T Y, A L E A D E R W H O I S P A V I N G T H E W A Y T O C H A N G I N G O U R AT T I T U D E S A N D I N S P I R I N G C O N F I D E N C E I N T H E F U T U R E .

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on WHY I DO WHAT I DO: My parents are the two hardest working people I know. They also are extremely giving and caring. I can only hope I live up to their character and model it in my practice daily. When I decided to open Monocle Eye Care, independence was a huge motivator—the ability to control my day while providing the best care for my patients. Technology is improving all aspects of the medical ﬁeld and optometry is no exception. I try to continue learning and using new tools to provide the best care possible. I want to provide an experience for patients that is interactive, educational, and above all, exceptional! w Dr. Brittany Flaherty is the owner and lead optometrist at Monocle Eye Care And Eyewear Gallery located at 20121 N. Main St., Suite A, in Cornelius.You can reach Dr. Flaherty and her staff at 704.228.8525 or visit www.MonocleEyeCare.com.

WRITER LESLIE OGLE

PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

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HOME

home sweet home

WRITER STARR MILLER

his can be said for designers as well. We can easily see through the maze of choices for our clients as we are trained to listen to them and draw out what makes them special and how that will manifest itself in their surroundings. The problem is, when we try and do it for ourselves, we hit the same roadblocks as our clients in dealing with the multitude of options and decisions. In the past few years, I have been called in to work for other designers on their own homes for just this reason. The possibilities are endless, and we love it ALL! Now for the confession. My husband has been asking for two years that I renovate our master bath. I have been putting it off but as I get closer to taking the plunge and starting my own home project, I am compelled to share some helpful thoughts with you.

How can a professional designer help?

L K N e x p e rt

Starr Miller is the president and principal designer at StarrMiller Interior Design, Inc. Contact her at 704.896.3321 or visit www.starrmiller.com.

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A professional designer learns who you are, how you need to function, and based on indepth inquiry can make wise and proper decisions for you. The next level is understanding your budget and the levers to pull to achieve the look you want while keeping the project within your boundaries. This is one reason designers ask up front what your budget will be for the project. If it is low, we want to make sure you understand that your plan will be a “do it yourself project” and paying for outside advice will not be the best use of your funds. If your budget is medium or high, the designer will know what materials and renovation options to suggest.

How long will that master bath renovation take?

planning | Be prepared. The planning will take two to

five months depending on the complexity and the number of changes. It is important at this stage for your design team to have every decision made prior to handing the plan to a contractor for their build budget. This is how the final numbers you receive are real numbers and not just guesstimates.

contractor budgeting | This part will take a minimum

of two weeks and more likely three to four weeks. Different trades need to come to the project to understand the scope of their estimates. Scheduling busy trades is often difficult and then they will need time to work up their quotes.

renovation | With proper planning, construction begins

with materials in hand. Construction will take a minimum of six weeks. Demolition, structural changes, plumbing, electrical, drywall, tilework, cabinetry, countertops, etc.—all these elements must work within the trades’ schedules. There is a scarcity of trades in the U.S. and they are in hot demand. Inspections in between each part of the renovation happen when the inspector can schedule it, so there may be days without someone on site.

What am I going to do about my bath?

Luckily, I have a team of designers who work with me. Once I acknowledge that I need to get out of my own way (sometimes they must slap me), the process moves much faster and truly ends up better. Goal: Just do it and get a new bathroom for 2019! w

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DO YOU NEED A

self

Winter Winte r vention!? WINTER FUN ON A BUDGET

Now that the holidays are over and the days are shorter and colder, you may begin to feel the seasonal effects on your attitude. If you’re in need of a break from the mundane or a respite for the weary, there are lots of things to consider … here are a few ideas while we wait on warmer weather, and you don’t have to spend big bucks nor hop on a plane!

ADMIT ONE

EAT, DRINK, AND BE MERRY Host a gourmet party where

everyone brings what is needed to prepare the meal. Assign each person a course—appetizers, soup, salad, entrée, dessert—the fun is in the preparation! You can make it a wine tasting event as well since there are different wines that can accompany each course. Visit www.foodandwine.com for succulent recipes and wine pairings. GET A DOSE OF CULTURE

Museums and art galleries are a great way to spend the afternoon, and what better way to keep your children involved in the culture and history of our area. Visit www.charlottesgotalot.com.

EXPLORE OUR STATE

Visit nearby cities for inexpensive winter trips—hotels, inns, and quaint B&B’s offer great deals to North Carolina residents, especially during the off-season. Visit www.visitnc.com.

HAVE A SPA DAY

Have the girls over and do spa treatments at home. Facials, mani-pedi’s, and soothing massages will warm a cold day. Search www.babble.com for homemade facial masks and other home spa ideas—and inhome massages are more affordable than you think!

LEND A HELPING HAND

the kids to volunteer at Philanthropy never goes out of season, so take oards for donations. Get the local soup kitchen or go through your cupb ormanvolunteerism.com. .laken www guidance on your volunteer efforts at

Summer

WATER FRONT

Robinson Tabor 19 years of Real Estate Experience

704-502-2352

LakeNormanSummer@aol.com

www.SummerTabor.com

2316 Grey Road, Davidson $569,000 Lovely home on almost 2 acres. 2 master suites on the main level. Formal dining, Office, 2 story Great Room, Den with wet bar, Screened Porch with Hot Tub. Four bedrooms, 3.5 baths. Chicken coups & Storage Building. Just down the road from Downtown Davidson.

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233 Fernbrook Drive, Mooresville $649,000 Waterfront home on Lake Norman. Full brick home with finished basement. Private boat dock. Master on the main. Tons of space with almost 4200 sqft. Five bedrooms, three baths. Deck off the back. Walk to Lake Norman Elementary.

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FEATURE

success story the demands of the job and the increasing extracurricular activities of her children. “I felt it was more important to focus on what was best for them,” Tammie explains. The dream of a career change was put aside for the next 17 years.

tammie blake Allen Tate Realty CORNELIUS, NC

choose HAPPY WOVEN INTO THE STORY BEHIND EVERY SUCCESSFUL WOMAN, there are always trials

and obstacles that have led to the victories and celebrations. Tammie Blake, realtor with Allen Tate, is no exception. She had a desire to become a real estate agent for some time and took the course in 2000. However, being a single parent of a young son and daughter, she realized that she would not be able to balance

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In 2017, Tammie realized her dream. “For seven straight weeks, all I did was study – and it paid off,” she exclaims. Each day she focuses on being positive, finding joy, and treating people the way she wants to be treated. “I want my optimism and cheerfulness to be contagious,” she laughs. The self-proclaimed Army brat was born in Rock Hill, South Carolina, but lived in several states and a few different countries as well. She spent most of her school years in Germany.

Reminiscing, Tammie says, “Christmas in Germany was the most beautiful time of the year … everyone was filled with the Christmas spirit and celebrated each day with something special.” Tammie still enjoys traveling and learning about different cultures. Her travel goal is to visit all 50 states and seven continents. An avid reader, her favorite book in the Bible is Genesis. “I love all of the rich history described in Genesis – from Adam and Eve, to Jacob – they were real people facing problems, but there was always a strand of hope in the stories,” she says. A recurrent theme, Tammie’s favorite story is that of Jacob, who was betrayed by his brothers, but survived and became the hero. Her all-time favorite book is Redeeming Love by Francine Rivers. “I’m drawn to the story of love and romance, the tale of coming out of tragedy into victory,” she describes. A self-motivator, Tammie believes that it is important to be true to yourself and your God-given talents. “Each person has something special and unique to offer the world.” The story has been told and retold, from the beginning of time – even when things look bleak, there is always a ribbon of hope. Even though there will be trials and obstacles, if you place your focus on the right things, you will reach your dreams. And while you are on the journey, Tammie reminds us, don’t forget to find your joy. “After all,” she says with a smile, “happiness is a state of mind that you choose, so choose happy!” w

WRITER MICHELLE LOVE

PHOTOGRAPHER CHELSEA BREN

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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

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YOU NEED THESE THREE THINGS! WRITER CYNDY ETLER

As a life coach, I’m trained in human psychology. I understand humans put effort into things that line up with their values. If one person’s top value is their spirituality, they’ll give up earthly comforts to become a monk. If another person’s is the status of wealth, they’ll put in crazy hours for that career and paycheck. What would be torture for one is easy for another, if it aligns with their values. This thing was a little tricky for me. My values include respect for everybody— literally, every type of body. I reject the notion of one body type being superior to another. But through self-coaching, I realized another of my values is feeling conﬁdent and attractive when out in public. In some cultures, thicker women are the beauty ideal. If I lived in one, my goal would *poof!* disappear. But in this culture, I feel most attractive when I’m at my “ﬁghting weight.” So, check: my goal to lose ten pounds aligns (shakily!) with my values.

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to admit it, I’m an average Jane. Case in point: I’ve been wanting to lose “those last 10 pounds” forever. Like, since I was in utero. But no matter what, those pounds wouldn’t budge! M U C H A S I H AT E

LIFE? Know Your Values

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You want to change your life. You’ll do whatever it takes. So you try. And try. But change won’t come. Could you be missing these three things?

want to change your

THING 1:

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

Losing weight requires change, and creating change is hard. There are three intangibles needed to create change: • clarity on your values • change as your top priority • small, achievable goals

THING 2:

THING 3:

But I still wasn’t losing that weight. And this is where things get interesting.

Change requires easy goals that build up to our big goal. Every time we meet one, we get a surge of energy and hope. And energy + hope + effort + time = big goal achievement.

Change As Your Top Priority

To create change, our goal has to be our current top priority. For ten years, my priority has been my work as a life coach and author. Did I want to be ten pounds lighter? Sure. Was that my top priority? Nope. So, my work got done, but those ten pounds stuck. Until I hit a work wall. If I didn’t take a break and recharge with fun, I’d have a nervous breakdown. So I booked a trip to Los Angeles, thrilled about doing average Jane fun: roller skating on Venice Beach, pretending to be Mariah Carey. To be Mariah Carey, I had to wear cutoffs and a bikini top with my skates. Suddenly my top priority shifted, and I was focused on losing those ten pounds for my trip. But how was I going to do it?

Small, Achievable Goals

Enter my shiny new Fitbit, which gave me hourly goals … 250 steps an hour? That’s a thing I can do, and it makes me feel successful, which fuels my motivation to meet my daily caloric goal. I clariﬁed my values. Then my priorities shifted. I set my big goal, started working on little goals, and boom! One week after my ﬁrst weigh-in, I was down 3.5 pounds. See? Change is doable, even for the average Jane Mariah.

Cyndy Etler is an awardwinning author and boardcertified life coach. As a coach, she helps young adults (and youthful adults!) figure out what they truly want, then guides and supports them as they go get it. Her work has been featured in The Charlotte Observer, Newsday, The Progressive, NPR, She Knows, and CBS’ The Doctors, among others. Connect with her at www.theteenlifecoach.com.

MIND body spirit

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