Lake Norman Woman Magazine January 2016

fun O N A BUDGET

WINTER

combatting

IN-HOME ALLERGENS

what I know

NOW

SHARING LIFE’S LESSONS

fresh STARTS featuring KELLY HADLEY OF WHALEN DENTISTRY

The holidays...a time for family, friends, hugs and guiding teeth into beautiful alignment. in Holiday Cheer.

Huntersville, North Carolina 28078

9625 Northcross Center Court, Suite 303

info@LinebergerOrthodontics.com

(704) 892-3300

2016

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2016

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.

STA F F

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PUBLISHER

Dana Nieters

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

volume ix, number viii

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LKN

January FRESH STARTS

EDITOR

Amy Hallman

amy@lakenormanwoman.com

OPERATIONS SUPPORT & CONTRIBUTING WRITER Leslie Ogle

leslie@lakenormanwoman.com

SENIOR ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Stephanie Sullivan

stephanie@lakenormanwoman.com

ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVE Sandy Comer

sandy@lakenormanwoman.com

DISTRIBUTION MANAGER Juli Simmons

ads@lakenormanwoman.com

ART DIRECTOR Chelsea Bren

chelsea@lakenormanwoman.com

JA N UA RY CO N T RI BU TO RS :

Karen Barry; Adam Breeding; Starr Miller; Dr. Nicole Whitehead

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

704.895.6168

WWW.LAKENORMANWOMAN.COM

Ad Submissions: 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.

{FROM

TH E

publisher}

The New Year is here again, and while most folks will simply think of it as “2016,” I’ll think of it as “the Year I Turn 50.”

The panic began to set in when I turned 49.

As much as I would like to pretend that I’m still the same me I was in my 30s, realistically, I can’t. After all, I can no longer turn myself into a pretzel during the stretches in Pilates class, and I’m going to need quite the plastic surgery budget to hide the effects of the loss of collagen and the pull of gravity. The comment from well-meaning well wishers doesn’t help, either. You know, the “But you look great... for your age!” one. What does that mean, exactly? What is a woman my age supposed to look like? Are they saying that at 50, I should suddenly look like death warmed over?

Wouldn’t it be great if we could start this new year believing we look good, regardless if our age is 30, 40, 50, 60, 70 or even more? Two of my fellow demi-centenarians and I have decided we’re going to do just that. We’re donning our “50 is Fabulous” t-shirts and heading to the beach where we might even bare bikini-clad 50-year-old bodies and dance on some tables to celebrate the fiftieth anniversary of our births. After all, one of the advantages to getting older is that other people’s opinions of our bodies or appearances are fading faster than our firm chin lines. And even though it’s quite a bit saggier than it used to be, we’re much more comfortable in our own skin.

I wish I could figure out how to stay comfortable with growing older gracefully once the celebration has subsided and the tequila has worn off, though.

After all, I do realize that “America’s Next Top Model” is probably not going to be calling and I’m just going to have to move on over for the younger, faster runners on the track at the YMCA. But who says 50 has to be the beginning

of a long slide into physical deterioration and social insignificance? Even with the graying hair, popping knees, and expanding waistline (and, let’s face it, that part does suck) there is a bright side to turning 50.

There’s actually a lot to be said for growing older, and I am going to try to focus on the positive. Here are some reasons why 50 rocks: 1.

It beats the alternative.

2.

My BS meter is finely tuned—I can smell a bulls#*t story a mile away.

3.

I can still fit into my sexy underwear, but I also know it’s optional because I’ve figured out that being sexy has nothing to do with underwear.

4.

I understand that confidence isn’t having all the answers or even knowing what to do and when to do it; confidence is believing that I will figure it out eventually.

5.

I realize that I may have more years behind me than in front of me, but that doesn’t make me sad, it mobilizes me: time’s a wastin’!

“A seasoned woman is spicy,” says best-selling author Gail Sheehy. “She has been marinated in life experience.” Even though my marinade was mostly cabernet, I do love the fact that at 50 I have been bathed with wisdom, the ability to laugh at myself, humility, and grace.

I wouldn’t go back to my 20s at this point for all the age-defying cream in Dillard’s. Maybe the acceptance that five decades of learning and growing is a good thing and the self-assurance that comes with that is what 50 is supposed to look like.

And perhaps, that’s what aging gracefully is all about.

-dana

. PUBLISHER

C O N TAC T DA N A V I A E- M A I L AT DA N A @ L A K E N O R M A N WO M A N. C O M

DANA NIETERS

Contents

JANUARY 2016

22

COMBATTING IN-HOME ALLERGENS

12

42

MAIN STREET VETERINARY HOSPITAL

in every issue 30

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WO M E N O N TH E M OV E

Features

STAFF QUESTION: What Do You Want To Learn This Year?

14

WHAT I KNOW NOW: Jamie Ottinger

20

LEADING THE WAY: Shelly Quinn

26

COVER STORY: It Starts With Positivity

34

HERE SHE IS: Melissa Cruz

38

SPECIAL SCENE WITH LKNW: LKNW At 3rd Annual Women Of Will Awards Special

42

SUCCESS STORY: Fresh Starts On Main

20

SHELLY QUINN

{

34

MELISSA CRUZ

32

16 22

36

O N THE C OVER:

KELLY HADLEY OF

WHALEN DENTISTRY PH OTO G R A PH Y BY:

CHELSEA BREN

18

Fashion

Pressed For Time? 10 Ironing Tips

Health

The Truth About Starting Fresh Combatting In-Home Allergens

Home

Open A New Window, Open A New Door …

Self

Winter Fun On A Budget

24

Fresh Starts Are Worth It

44

MIND BODY SPIRIT: A Healthy Relationship, A Healthy You!

JANUARY 2016 |

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STAFF’S

what do you want to learn this year?

DA N A N I E T E R S

“I want to learn how to cook a few quick, easy meals that are edible. The kitchen is a stressful place for me, but the family dinner is one time of day in which we’re all together and focused on one another, so it’s important. It helps when my cooking is actually fit for human consumption.”

LESLIE OGLE

“I have always wanted to learn to play golf. I understand it is a tedious and difficult sport, which may not be compatible with my impatient nature; but I think it would help me focus more on another thing I’d like to learn—how to live in the now!”

C H E LS E A B R E N

“I am determined to learn the complicated realm of investing and long-term savings, in all of its forms.

From mutual funds to thrift saving plans, and starting with the terminology— since it all sounds like Greek to me now! Wish me luck!”

S T E P H A N I E S U L L I VA N

“I want to learn how to have more patience. As a mom of two 10-year-olds I need a lot more! And in a hurry—because they will be teenagers before I know it.”

S A N DY C O M E R

“I would like to wake up each morning with a sense of purpose and hope. I’d like to give more time to the less fortunate. Also, I’d like to focus on myself by sticking to a more productive lifestyle (just eating better, moving around more, more nature, more sunshine, more time outdoors to clear my thoughts, more reading and, of course, a little more beach time)!”

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AMY HALLMAN

“I’d like to learn to take my photography up a notch.

I follow several wildlife and nature (my favorite subject) photographers on Instagram; but their work makes me feel like my photographs are on the same level as crayon drawings. I have the patience, but I never seem to have the lighting!”

ELIZABETH BUEHLER

“I want to learn to play the guitar. Two years ago, while rummaging through my attic, I found my mother’s old guitar. I was surprised to find it in great condition; it only needed new strings and some tuning! Ever since, I’ve been attempting to play it and failing miserably. This year, I want to take time to learn the scales.”

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what i know

WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE THE YOUNGER YOU?

NOW!

Trust; but verify…everything and everyone.

HOW DO YOU KNOW WHEN IT’S TIME TO WALK AWAY?

When everyday activities that don’t normally feel like burdens become burdens (because of the situation) WHAT DID YOU LEARN FROM YOUR MOM?

Smile, even when you’re sad.

WHAT IS THE ONE THING YOU HOPE YOUR CHILDREN LEARN FROM YOU?

To always give more of themselves to help where help is needed WHAT ADVENTURE CHANGED YOUR LIFE?

My last marriage—Boy, was that an adventure! But, I now have a beautiful six-year-old daughter because of it, so I have certainly discovered the treasure in it.

WHAT IS SOMETHING YOU WISH YOU WOULD HAVE DONE DIFFERENTLY WHEN YOU WERE 25?

M EE T:

Jamie OTTINGER

AGE:

43

BUSINESS:

Express Employment Professionals LKN TOWN:

Mooresville

Used more sunscreen! I feel the place I’ve come to be is relative to my past experiences, and I’m pretty comfortable in my skin. So really, the only thing I wish I would’ve taken more seriously is what damage the sun can do to me.

BY: DANA NIETERS

Toby Keith may lament he’s not “as good as I once was,”and John Cougar Mellencamp may want to “hold on to 16,” or at least that’s what they say in their songs, but the women of Lake Norman are proof that life just keeps getting better and better. With life experience comes wisdom, and we’re asking area women to share what they’ve learned on the topics of lifestyle, attitude, beauty, self-confidence, relationships, and, yes, getting older.

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Join Our

New VIP Program!

TreaT Yourself all Year!

January Special $200 Off

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Join our new VIP Program and you can take advantage of them at your convenience…

ALL YEAR LONG! Three levels available to provide maximum flexibility!

See a staff member or call for details!

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Board Certified Dermatologist

Scott Paviol, MD

Board Certified Dermatologist

Kristin Prochaska, PA-C

704.235.1827

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 facebook.com/MooresvilleDermCenter www.mooresvilledermcenter.com www.piedmonthealthcare.com

JANUARY 2016 |

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IN MY LINE OF WORK,

it is abundantly clear that we are each the sum of our experiences. As a chiropractor, I find evidence of past injuries, sports endeavors, and career choices in one’s physical structure. What has happened to us, what we’ve chosen to do—or for that matter, what we’ve chosen not to do—all show up in our bodies and our health.

health

The same is true emotionally.

We cannot separate who we are today from the joys, struggles, achievements, and relationships from previous years. Our approach to everything we encounter in the future is molded and colored by all of our prior interactions.

The Truth About Starting Fresh BY: NICOLE WHITEHEAD, DC

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The theme this month is Fresh Starts. Some people think that to have a fresh start, one must wipe a clean slate. In my teen naivety, I was excited for the fresh start that going far away to college would bring. I felt that my new beginning there would give me a blank canvas to paint on. I felt intrigued and excited about the idea of reinventing myself in a new place.

In hindsight, it’s obvious that, at my core, I stayed very much the same person. I made friends who were a lot like my friends from home, I took part in activities that were similar to things I had done before, and I lived my life with mostly the same morals and ethics that I lived by back home.

Granted, I have changed through every new stage of

my life, but the change was a result of the experiences and people I encountered, not a result of a definitive choice on my part to become something different. The change and transformation that comes with a new start is rarely predictable. We usually change in ways we never expected.

I see a lot of people in my practice who are ready for a fresh start for their health.

A choice to take better care of oneself, to nurture relationships, to take a career to the next level—these are all the kinds of fresh starts that many of us decide to make this time of year. The difference between those who successfully make a fresh start and those who stay stagnant often seems to come down to the ability to understand that there is no such thing as a blank canvas.

Each image already painted on our canvas plays a role in our ability to make a change. Change happens as a progressive result of experiences and people molding what already exists in us into a slightly different version. A fresh start does not need to be a wholesale change. It can be a small change that puts us in a position to have new experiences and meet new people who will add different colors and textures to the painting that is ourselves as we live our lives. Therefore, a fresh start doesn’t need to be daunting—what fresh start will you make this month?

Nicole Whitehead, DC, owns Advanced Spinal Fitness in Mooresville, offering chiropractic care for infants, children, and adults, and drug-free solutions for injuries and pain management. For more information, please visit www.advancedspinalfitness.net or call 704.663.5142. | JANUARY 2016

© Vladimir Tomovic | Dreamstime.com

© Rudchenko | Dreamstime.com

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© Marijus Auruskevicius | Dreamstime.com

© Shaiith | Dreamstime.com

EAT, DRINK,

PAMPER

yourself

AND

be merry Host a gourmet party where everyone brings something to prepare the meal—together! 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 different wines can accompany each course. Visit www.foodandwine.com for succulent recipes and wine pairings.

Have the girls over and do spa treatments at home. Facials, manipedis, and soothing massages will warm a cold day and soften winter-chafed skin. Search www.babble.com for homemade facial masks and other home spa ideas.

Winter Fun On A

Now that the holidays are over and the days are even shorter and colder, you may begin to feel the seasonal effects on your attitude. If you’re in need of a “wintervention,” here are some ideas while we wait for the spring thaw:

SEEK

© Mauro Rodrigues | Dreamstime.com

budget

culture

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

© Senkaya | Dreamstime.com

© Wavebreakmedia Ltd | Dreamstime.com

When is the last time you visited the Mint Museum? Have you ever seen the Bechtler Museum of Modern Art or the Levine Museum of the New South?

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

TA K E A S H O R T

RUN FOR

fun

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Visit nearby cities for inexpensive winter trips, a quaint inn or B&B, perhaps.

Try searching www.vrbo.com for ideas. This rent-by-owners website has some great deals!

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LKNW FEA T U RE

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.

SHELLY QUINN, Branch Manager at GBC Mortgage

Sixteen years ago, an influential woman in Shelly Quinn’s life took a chance on her and hired her as a loan officer, setting the stage for Shelly to become the leader she is today. She is the branch manager at GBC Mortgage in Huntersville. She leads a team of four loan officers, assisting customers in financing their dream homes.

Motivating her team can be a big challenge. “Each person has different skills and strengths,” Shelly says. “I try to help them turn a weakness into a positive—each personality requires a little different approach.”

With an individualized approach, Shelly is eager to help others overcome obstacles and achieve their goals.

She admits that being an effective leader means taking responsibility for the team instead of blaming someone else.

Another important quality to Shelly is being a good listener. When things become chaotic she makes the time to consider her responses. Overreacting is not an option when situations require a cool head and a calm demeanor.

LEADERSHIP IS?

“A leader is a good listener and observer, who is close enough to relate but far enough ahead to motivate and encourage her team to move forward positively and to accomplish team goals. A good leader does not look for followers but for strong people who will succeed and become leaders themselves.”

BY: ELIZABETH BUEHLER | PHOTOGRAPHY BY: LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY

babysitter and a newspaper typesetter

FIRST JOB:

Life AS A

Leader

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BEST CAREER ADVICE: You

can do it!

CAREER HIGHLIGHT:

still in search of that.

| JANUARY 2016

I am

WHEN I PUNCH OUT I:

I spend time with Sean, my husband of 32 years, and my dog, Daisy Mae. COMFORT FOOD/SNACK AT WORK: frozen chai latte I WISH I HAD MORE TIME TO: travel.

“I’ve learned to balance work, family, and fun from my parents,” Shelly says. “Also, I try to always lead by example for my own children.” Her children, Brian and Colleen, are both grown—and both successfully work in the beer brewing industry.

Because she knows leadership happens outside the office, too, Shelly is a member of Wise Women Rock and B2B networking groups and two book clubs. “We support each other by sharing our strengths and knowledge,” she says. “We learn from one another and grow—and as a result, we are better in all aspects of our lives.”

Shelly’s leadership within the community has brought her peers’ recognition: She has been nominated as a FiveStar mortgage lender for the past two years. This honor motivates Shelly to continue to improve herself and her team, in order to best serve her clients and the community.

BIGGEST WORK PET PEEVE:

complainers and negativity

LAST THING YOU RESEARCHED ON THE INTERNET: Everything—I

did most of my Christmas shopping that way.

IF YOU COULD MAKE OVER ANYTHING, WHAT WOULD IT BE? I would make over

myself—I feel there is always room for improvement.

HOW WOULD YOUR HIGH SCHOOL TEACHERS DESCRIBE YOUR YOUNGER SELF? fun loving

39

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JANUARY 2016 |

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health

gesun

dheit

!

© Citalliance | Dreamstime.com

COMBATTING IN-HOME

allergens

American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology, dust mites and mold are the two most common household allergens. Since both thrive in warm, humid environments, most houses are the perfect storm for these two irritants. Here are a few tips to tackle mites and mold:

A C C O R D I N G TO T H E

•

Encase pillows, mattresses, and box springs in hypoallergenic protectors. Wash bedding once a week in hot water (130° F), and avoid decorating your bed with throw pillows, fancy quilts, or other items that are not washable.

•

Keep items such as knickknacks, pictures, books, office papers, and files to a minimum and clean them thoroughly and regularly. Also, limit your kids’ stuffed animals to a few washable favorites; keep others in plastic bins.

•

If possible, remove carpeting and use hardwood or linoleum flooring, and use washable area rugs.

•

Using a 5-percent bleach solution, clean mold and condensation from window sills, in and around kitchen appliances (including refrigerator drip pans), and in the bathroom. Keep kitchens and bathrooms well ventilated.

•

Avoid upholstered furnishings, and choose leather, plastic, wood, or metal instead.

•

Purchase an air purifier and dehumidifier with HEPA (high-efficiency particulate air) filters; also use HEPA filters in your vacuum. The ideal humidity to control mold and mites is 40 to 50 percent; it may need to be lower than 40 percent in winter months.

For more information on allergies and allergy remedies, visit the American College of Allergy, Asthma, & Immunology website at www.acaai.org.

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Self ©

Fresh Starts Are Worth It

Language scholars have long debated the difference between the words complete and finished. But divorce lawyers should get to weigh in. The difference is simple. When one marries the perfect mate, he is complete. When one marries the wrong mate, he is finished. And, if one’s perfect mate catches him with the wrong mate, he is completely finished!

BY: ADAM BREEDING

divorce is common in our society.

Statistics suggest that a divorce takes place every 36 seconds. At Lake Norman Law Firm, we help dozens of to-be-divorcees each year sort out how life will function after divorce. To date, none have wound up completely finished. Most have embraced the life-changing event as a means to a fresh start.

ment that will catapult your fresh start.

ALL JOKING ASIDE,

On average, a person spends two years contemplating divorce before taking action. By the time folks get to us, efforts to save the marriage are usually exhausted.

The reality that at least one spouse wants this divorce sets in. Couples struggling with the decision to break up should absolutely use the New Year as an incentive to revitalize the marriage. However, if efforts fail or the decision to separate is mutual, we encourage clients to embrace improving their quality of life and making the most of their opportunity to start over.

Here’s how: 1

Retain a lawyer.

Make sure your fresh start gets off to a good start. Separating spouses must construct a detailed arrangement that dictates how things will work in the future—things like co-parenting, resolving income disparity, and dividing

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Look at the big picture.

3

If you face divorce, then mistakes and missteps were made in the marriage. There is no use either casting or accepting blame—rather, accept that the marriage was a failed venture.

Humans make mistakes. While burdensome, divorce is the tool that grants recovery from a failed venture and provides a path to a new beginning.

Achieving a fair arrangement during the separation process, through your attorney, leaves you with opportunity. We know that for a fact because we often hear positive feedback about © Auremar | Dreamstime.com clients’ starting-over experiences. Over 50 percent remarry assets. These are difficult concepts. It’s within five years. If you find that your hard to know what’s fair. You need an marriage is completely finished, and expert to put you on the best possible divorce is unavoidable, withstand the footing as you begin your new journey. natural urge to focus on the past. Instead, look to the future and become a 2 Treat the process as a happy fresh-start story!

business transaction.

This is hard stuff. Divorces are emotional. Notwithstanding child custody issues, the economic aspects of divorce are a contractual negotiation. You want a fair deal that is favorable to you.

Don’t let emotion or principle get in the way of reaching an efficient settle-

Adam Breeding is the managing attorney at Lake Norman Law Firm. To learn more about divorce representation or other legal services at Lake Norman Law Firm, visit www.lknlawfirm.com, call 704.765.1617, or email the Smart Honest Legal Advisors at legalstaff@lknlawfirm.com.

Many people with significant symptoms do not have visible varicose or spider veins.

If you are experiencing symptoms such as heaviness, aching, swelling, throbbing, itching or even restless legs or leg wounds that won’t heal, you could have a vein problem.

Drs. Steve Folstad and Todd Hansen 206 Joe Knox Ave., Suite H in Mooresville, NC 28117

CarolinaVeinAssociates.com

Same week appointments available. Call us at 704.684.4511

JANUARY 2016 |

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>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

positivity

IT STARTS WITH

BY: AMY HALLMAN | PHOTOGRAPHY BY: CHELSEA BREN

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Kelly has worked for Dr. Ryan Whalen for four years. She worked with him for two years before he opened his own practice and invited her to join his team. Kelly saw Dr. Whalen marry his bride, Brooke; and she believes that next to being a great dentist is his other best job: father.

“Dr. Whalen is a wonderful friend and a fantastic husband, and he is such an amazing dad,” Kelly says.

“When those girls (Belle, 5; and Lane, 2) come into the office, this big tough guy turns into a softie.

He takes Belle to the driving range; and he has ‘me time’ with both girls at the park, or in a PJ party, or tea party.”

follows up with monthly support staff meetings to ensure the team can best support the dental practice and its invaluable patients.

>>>>>>>>>>

ENCOUNTERING KELLY HADLEY, OFFICE MANAGER AND FINANCIAL COORDINATOR AT WHALEN DENTISTRY IN CORNELIUS, IS A SWEET TREAT OF WHICH EVEN A DENTIST WOULD APPROVE.

At one of these meetings, she asked the team to complete a comment card for each team member. She got the idea from patients, who are asked to rate their experience after their visits. So, Kelly distributed cards, each with a staff member’s name at the top, for coworkers to write positive observations on it.

It served to lift up one another and also to be a reminder for any team member who may be having a bad day. Kelly’s own card reads, “I love my fabulous second mom, who’s positive, caring, and always encouraging”; “always put together”; “happy and beautiful”; “spirited”; and “kind and helpful.”

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> Originally from Siler City, Kelly moved to Lake Norman 13 years ago. With experience as a paralegal, she immediately began working in scheduling, filing insurance, and arranging payments. Kelly has two grown children, son Jordy and daughter Logan. She is also a grandmother (“Gigi”) to Sophie (8) and Lilly (3).

Whalen Dentistry is a solid practice with eight employees. One thing that makes it successful, in addition to quality dental care, is the lack of drama among office staff, Kelly says. Dr. Whalen holds monthly office meetings, and Kelly

Recently, Kelly shared that positivity within the community, too. She has volunteered at the Pregnancy Resource Center in Statesville, where pregnant girls, who participate in its pregnancy care and parenting classes, can earn points to shop in the Baby Boutique for items, such as baby and maternity clothing, diapers, formula, and equipment. In the New Year, Kelly hopes to volunteer more. She is interested in working with a program called Truth Girls, a program aimed at 6th grade girls

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LKNW SUCCES S

>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> >>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>> to discuss good values and to promote self-esteem. She would also like to go on a mission trip.

Kelly is a natural leader. She credits the influence of family and church for her love of helping others, whether that be staff, patients, or friends.“I like being Southern.

Being Southern means being sweet, kind, safe, and warm,” she says. “I know these qualities came from my mother, and she still has one of the biggest qualities of a Southern mom: overprotectiveness! She calls me every day, and if I don’t answer she won’t stop until she knows I’m safe. And I’m a grandmother!

“I grew up in that traditional setting, with the big front porch and large Sunday lunches after our Baptist

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church service. I had the same pastor from birth through high school. My dad’s parents worked separate shifts at the mill, and my grandfather used to give me coffee—at 3 years old—to sip from the saucer!

cosmetologist, and very early, she instilled in me that you don’t go out unpresentable,” she laughs. “I used to put on foundation and mascara to run to the grocery store! Now I’m a little more relaxed.

“And I think my nurturing upbringing made me nurturing. I love meeting new people and caring for them, which is perfect in my job.”

“I was the only girl for nine years, until my sister—whom I thought was my real live baby doll—was born!”

Kelly says. “I was a tomboy during the week, hunting, riding motorcycles, and playing ball on my dead-end road. Then on Sundays, my mother dressed me up—I looked like little Miss Sunbeam bread! Mom was a

“I think unpresentable now means being aware of your attitude toward others; you should always be respectful and considerate,” Kelly shares. “And I think my nurturing upbringing made me nurturing. I love meeting new people and caring for them, which is perfect in my job. I couldn’t love working with Dr. Whalen, the staff, and our patients more!”

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I N

T H E

C A R D S

women move O N

T H E

RAQUEL “KELLY” GEORGE

has joined Centerpiece Home Staging, LLC, in Cornelius. Kelly received her BA in interior design from Bowling Green State University and brings 20 years experience in residential design.

LISA MCCOY has joined Centerpiece Home Staging, LLC, in Cornelius. Lisa received her BA in art from California State University-Long Beach and recently earned the interior design diploma from The Interior Design Institute in San Francisco. Lisa brings 20 years of project management and event-planning experience, including a set-design internship at Saturday Night Live in New York City.

Centerpiece Home Staging, owned

by JAMIE MCNEILIS, won Best Residential Interior Staging in the $250K-$499K-price-point category at the Lake Norman Home Builders Association’s Best of the Lake Design Competition & Gala.

Lake Norman residents, President

DEBORAH GENTRY and CEO BARBARA GUILLOT

recently opened WeGoShop.com, a national grocery shopping and delivery service company, which serves the north Charlotte, Lake Norman, and Statesville region.

Serenity Now Massage Therapy owner DANIELLE RATLIFF and team donated $1,117 to the Teresa Flippo Oncology Fund, established

by Carolinas HealthCare Foundation.

They raised the funds in honor of a client who underwent a hysterectomy and double mastectomy, successfully performed by Dr. Flippo, who has since recently passed away from pancreatic cancer.

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FASHION your style

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Š Photographerlondon | Dreamstime.com

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{ H E R E she I S }

AN LKN WOMAN WHO PERSONIFIES WHAT MAKES LAKE NORMAN WOMEN SO GREAT

Making a Fresh Start: I am so grateful for second chances. We all make decisions in life that aren’t the best, but if you surround yourself with people that believe in you, it helps to restore your faith. After overcoming a challenging year professionally, I won “Newcomer of the Year,” one of the highest awards with Intercontinental Hotels Group (IHG). It restored my confidence and gave me a new perspective.

Getting Through the Darkness: As a child, I

was physically abused by my mother’s boyfriend.

Today, I serve on the board for SCAN (Stop Child Abuse Now) of Iredell County because being an advocate to help stop child abuse is my passion. I believe that every weakness or obstacle you have is an opportunity for God to show strength in your life. No matter how dark it may get, there is always a reason to keep going.

It’s a Juggling Act: I originally took a parttime job during high school to help open the Candlewood Suites in Huntersville. I worked my way up to general manager by the age of 18, and I’ve opened four hotels from the ground up. Being a working mom involves a lot of juggling, especially since my children are still so young. I want them to have a strong work ethic but also understand that family is most important.

With a Wink and a Smile: The secret to happiness is accepting yourself. Happiness is an internal state. I try to teach my children, as well as those around me, to strive to be the person people can count on. Be resourceful, let your wisdom and abilities speak for themselves, but never forget where you came from. Stay humble and forgiving, but reach for the stars!

melissa CRUZ

H O M E TO W N : M Y RT L E B E A C H , S C L K N TO W N : M O O R E S V I L L E H O U S E H O L D : C H I L D R E N A N TO N I O ( 1 3 ) , G A B R I E L A ( 9 ) , M AT E O ( 3 ) , S O F I A ( 2 ) , O L I V I A ( 1 ) , A N D M A LT E S E , F Y N N

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Melissa Cruz is the general manager at Candlewood Suites, 3247 Charlotte Hwy., in Mooresville. For more information, contact Melissa at 704.360.4899, or visit www.candlewoodsuites.com.

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i am an LKN oman because…

My love for and my involvement in this community are very important to me. I bought my first home in Huntersville at the age of 18, and after I had my first son in 2002, I knew this was where I wanted to raise my children.

BY: LESLIE OGLE | PHOTOGRAPHY BY: LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY

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Open A New Window, Open A New Door…

BY: STARR MILLER

has always been Auntie Mame.

I’ve read the book so many times that I broke the binding.

In the film, I fell in love with Rosalind Russell and can even tolerate Lucille Ball in the movie musical. Mame is my ideal; she sees an obstacle and finds a way around it. Her life changes, and she changes her interior design.

M Y FAV O R I T E S TO R Y

The New Year offers us a chance to pretend we are Mame and reinvent ourselves, our outlook, or even our surroundings. I am a firm believer in the concept that change starts with one step.

So, as we start January, I am going to offer some ways you might start fresh, based on the essence of Mame and lyrics from the musical:

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© Gerber86

“OPEN A NEW WINDOW.”

From a designer’s perspective, this may mean new window treatments—or fewer window treatments, allowing the sun to burst into your space and brighten it up. It could mean looking outside and planning a new outdoor space. The trick here is to imagine your view differently.

“OPEN A NEW DOOR.”

I look at this as opportunity. Do you need to update the doors in your house? The hardware?

Or do you need to open a room door and reimagine it as a craft room, a wine room, a music room, a new closet, a personal space, or a gym? Maybe you need to step out of your comfort zone and paint your front door a new color or reupholster a sofa. Just use your imagination, and do things differently.

“TRAVEL A NEW HIGHWAY THAT’S NEVER BEEN TRIED BEFORE.”

Take a trip. It could be a day trip or a world cruise. The trick is to plan it now for later in the year. This allows you time to plan it carefully, and affords you the luxury of looking forward to it. When the time to go sneaks up on you, it’s like receiving a gift.

“TOAST WITH A NEW VINTAGE; THE FIZZ DOESN’T FIZZ TOO LONG.”

If you always eat or drink the same thing, try something new. It could be Indian food, a new wine varietal, or a new restaurant. It might mean that you pull out your wedding china and crystal to use every weekend. You are special and should treat yourself as such.

“DANCE TO A NEW RHYTHM.”

Dance lessons, anyone? My husband and I have been discussing this for 36 years—is this the year to give it a go? Maybe this means a new radio station or new shoes. Hmmmm….

“THE FELLOW YOU OUGHT TO BE IS THREE DIMENSIONAL, WHENEVER THEY SAY YOU’RE SLIGHTLY UNCONVENTIONAL.”

FA M Y VO L I RI T NE E !

This is your chance to stop and think about what makes you happy in life. Your perspective is valuable. In my business, we know that collaboration always produces the best results; different perspectives shine more light on the answer. If it is in your everyday discussions, your work, or your home, find your voice and make sure it is heard!

Happy New Year!

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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Emcee Sheri Lynch & Dana

2015 WOW Finalists (l to r): Jane Bolton, Dr. Kathleen Russo, Hedvika Miller, Teri Hutchens, Lisa Mayhew-Jones, Brenda Robinson, Sandy Tabor-Gray, & Patsy Wilson

WOW Finalist Hedvika Miller

Finalist Jane Bolton with her friends & supporters

2014 Finalist Rosie T. Bailey, Dana, 2013 Finalist Barbara Johnson, & Finalist Brenda Robinson

LKNW's Stephanie, Leslie, & Sandy

Jamie Castaneda, Amy, & Claudia Kepner

The Solace for the Children team with Finalists Sandy Tabor-Gray and Patsy Wilson

Finalist Terri Hutchens

Annie Lewis & Dana

Finalist Dr. Kathleen Russo

Finalist Lisa Mayhew-Jones

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at the

A N N U A L

omen ill

Dana & 2015 Grand Finalist Patsy Wilson

Shaylyn Ladd of United Church Homes & Services

A W A R D S

SPECIAL Lake Norman Woman’s 3rd Annual Women of Will Awards Luncheon was an amazing event! Congratulations to all of our finalists and to our 2015 Grand Finalist, Patsy Wilson!

Grand Finalist Patsy Wilson & ???Sheri Lynch

LKNW's Amy, Stephanie, Dana, Sandy, Leslie & Chelsea with Sheri

Dana & Finalist Lisa Mayhew-Jones

Dana with Grand Finalists Charlene Pell (2013), Patsy Wilson (2015), & Rev. Jan Brittain (2014)

PHOTOGRAPHY BY:

CHELSEA BREN

For more photos from the Women of Will Awards Luncheon, visit our Facebook page.

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more from our 2015 WOMEN OF WILL luncheon!

Finalist Hedvika Miller

Dana and her Women of Will—her family

Dana & Finalist Jane Bolton

Grand Finalist Patsy Wilson

Dana with Grand Finalists Charlene Pell (2013) & Patsy Wilson (2015)

Dana with Finalist Brenda Robinson

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C E L E B R AT I N G O U R V E RY O W N W O M A N O F W I L L

HAPPY BIRTHDAY DANA!

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you were brought into this world to be a blessing and an inspiration to us and to so many others!

C E L E B R AT E T H E DAY

Love, The Staff of LKNW

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D R . LO R I H O E , partner at Main Street Veterinary

Hospital in Cornelius, knows something about fresh starts. She completed her undergraduate work at Penn State, and earned her veterinary medical degree from Auburn University. She is married to husband David, with two children, Zachary (8), and Hunter (5), and a Golden Retriever, a Lab, and a cat. Recently, they raised and trained a puppy, a future guide dog. Their job was to expose the puppy to as many situations as possible in one year, including going shopping and generally living among people all the time. Boonoodle, now a seeing-eye dog for a blind military veteran, lives in Florida.

In April 2013, it was time for Dr. Hoe to pursue her own practice, one that would be smaller, with an individualized, home-like feel, where she could make her own decisions. While under construction, she approached colleague Dr. Amanda Goodwin as a potential partner.

“She is great with clients,” Dr. Hoe says. “And we have a similar philosophy, so I knew it’d be an excellent fit.”

Fresh Starts

ON MAIN BY: AMY HALLMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY: LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY

D R . G O O D W I N says, “Dr. Hoe and I had a great working

relationship previously, at a large, high-volume practice. One thing I enjoy most about my job is the bond with pets and owners because of our smaller practice with its family-centric vision.”

While her parents and brother had moved to the Research Triangle area, Dr. Goodwin, whose undergraduate work was at Case Western Reserve University in Ohio, moved here because she was ready for warmer weather—and, of course, family—after she earned her veterinary medicine degree from The Ohio State University in 2008.

Dr. Goodwin is married to husband Michael Lewandowski, with four fur babies: two geriatric greyhounds, a beagle mix, and a 3-legged cat.

Dr. Hoe admits the practice grew more quickly than expected. Enter

D R . J A C K I E W H I T LO C K in January 2015. With a bachelor’s

degree in marine science and master’s in earth and environmental resource management, the future Dr. Whitlock earned her veterinary medical degree from the University of Georgia. She and husband Jon have a daughter, Elsa (3), and a son, Simon, who is two months old! They have two dogs, Lola-bean, a Catahoula mix, and a Pitbull mix, Ozzie.

“As a child, in a proud moment, I saw my dog limping around and found a nail embedded in her footpad. I took it out, and she instantly was more comfortable and happy,” Dr. Whitlock says. “I think that was the first time I thought about being a vet.”

Similarly, Dr. Goodwin says: “I have always wanted to be a veterinarian. That wish was solidified when I got a job at a boarding kennel during college. I thought, if I love this, imagine how rewarding being a veterinarian will be.”

The practice includes 15 staff members; and when the patient requires a specialized radiologist or an orthopedic surgeon, or similar, the team brings in the specialist. “When possible, we bring patient care to this office, Dr. Hoe says. “where they already feel comfortable.”

“All three of us are easy going, which allows us to share cases, learn from each other, and work around one another’s schedules,” Dr. Goodwin says. In February, the team will begin its fresh start: construction to enlarge the waiting area. They are also adding canine grass turf to the play yard in boarding and enhancing the consultation room!

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Dr. Whitlock, who has known Dr. Hoe since childhood says, “We grew up in the same town, with similar backgrounds and upbringings. Everyone, support staff included, is really invested in the hospital, clients, and pets—moreso than any other place I’ve worked. It’s really inspiring and makes me proud to be part of this work family.” | JANUARY 2016

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BETTER ME

…

BETTER YOU

…

BETTER WORLD

Mind Body Spirit The mind, body, and spirit are intimately connected. Because unhealthy thoughts and emotions can create a vicious cycle that leads to unhealthy physical patterns, we can choose a victorious path that includes a positive, healing, uplifting spiral. 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.

A Healthy Relationship, A Healthy You! BY: KAREN BARRY

I T ’ S T R A D I T I O N A L TO make New

Year’s resolutions, and we all make them with success in mind. They express the end of denial and the beginning of hope for the future.

Health improvements are normally the biggest focus. Gym memberships increase dramatically, and retail stores sell more exercise equipment in January than any other month. The New Year prompts renewed self.

January and February are also the busiest months for family law attorneys. Couples who’ve suffered with a bad relationship come to the conclusion they’ll divorce, having “held it together” for the holidays. But few realize that having a secure and fulfilling bond with their partner actually improves health. Perhaps it’s time to resolve to have a healthier relationship and, subsequently, a healthier you.

Have you evaluated the health of your “couplehood” along with those more traditional areas committed to resolutions? Are other obligations, such as children and work, absorbing your time and attention? Have you forgotten the promises you made in the beginning? Can it be that you don’t want to face the answer?

These can be fatal oversights. Benign neglect may explain it, but that isn’t a good excuse.

Recognition that your relationship health needs evaluation can keep you from becoming

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If you recognize three or more of the following, you need to evaluate your relationship:

. We don’t communicate. . We have the same argument over and over again. . There are lots of complaints and defensiveness. . I’ve suggested therapy, but he doesn’t want to go. . We’re like roommates. . Blaming, “Well I said it because you did.” . “It’s not what you say, it’s how you say it.” . I check his texts. . He avoids problems. . We argue about sex. . We’re drifting apart and have little in common. . I feel misunderstood. . He tells me how to fix my problems. . I’m not a priority. . I rarely feel I’m “good enough.” . He complains my expectations are too high. . All we talk about are schedules, chores, and children.

another couple who schedules a January appointment with a divorce attorney.

Fortunately, you can put an ailing relationship on a better trajectory. Understanding what

makes love work makes all the difference. Your relationship can be affair-proof and divorceproof. You can reconnect and renew your relationship. A little preventative medicine for your relationship can keep you from being another couple who “holds it together” through the holidays. Seriously consider going to a relationship improvement workshop and individual or couples therapy. Having a reliable map for lifelong love is available to you.

Your original commitment was sincere and wasn’t made with failure in mind, so explore all your options before calling it quits. Consider 2016 as the year of opportunity to improve your relationship. This can be a resolution that you actually keep because it’s not only rewarding and enduring, it is good for your physical health…and you are so worth it!

With a master’s degree in family therapy from Hahnemann University (now part of Drexel University), Karen Barry has served as director for North Carolina Association of Marriage and Family Therapists. She works with adults, children, couples, and families. For more information, visit www.karenbarrymft.com, or contact Karen at 704.237.3847 or karenbarrymft@yahoo.com.

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AVA I L A B L E

AVA I L A B L E

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Wishing You A Happy and Healthy 2016!

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