Lake Norman Woman Magazine March 2017

SPRING Fever IS REAL!

y r o t s r e h G N I K A M

OR OF IN HON

onth

ry m o t s i h s ' n e wom

THE MOTHERS OF

Invention {WOMEN'S}

featuring

STEPHANIE CRISCO OF THE CHARLES MACK CITIZEN CENTER

9 of 20 TOP SELLING VEHICLES IN AMERICA *

Randy Marion 2017 Chevy Cruze

TRUCKS & SUVs

2017 Subaru Outback

L I N C O L N

These are a few of the most popular models in the U.S. –all at our showrooms now! See what else is new for 2017. 7 brands...

2017 Ford Escape

1

TRUSTED NAME

randymarion.com

2017 Chevy Equinox

Mooresville

Chevy - Buick - Cadillac - Subaru I-77 Exit 36 704-664-3303

Huntersville

Buick - GMC I-77 Exit 23 704-659-7010

2017 Ford Explorer

*2017 US VEHICLE SALES YTD AS OF 2/01/17

Statesville

Chevrolet I-40 Exit 151 704-873-9094 Ford - Lincoln I-77 Exit 49-B 704-873-3673

RANDYMARION.COM

.

STAFF

.

PUBLISHER DANA NIETERS

dana@lakenormanwoman.com

volume x, number ix

March making HERstory

EDITOR AMY HALLMAN

amy@lakenormanwoman.com

OPERATIONS SUPPORT & CONTRIBUTING WRITER 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

M A RC H CO N T RI BU TO RS :

Adam Breeding; Dr. Matthew Lineberger; Starr Miller; Joanna Roop

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

704.895.6168

WWW.LAKENORMANWOMAN.COM

Ad Submissions: ads@lakenormanwoman.com FIND US ON

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.

today, thanks to mobile technology, I think, we don’t talk to strangers anymore? Yes, I know, we’re taught not to from a very young age, but I think that up until the prevalence of the smartphone, once we reached adulthood, we all broke that rule from time to time. Waiting for the next available bank teller, sitting in the waiting room at the doctor’s office and certainly, standing in the endless line at the DMV, conversations with those near us helped pass the time and very possibly could lead to a good story.

H AV E YO U N OT I C E D T H AT

For that matter, we don’t talk to our loved ones much anymore, either. Yes, we text, we tweet, we post, we email; but we don’t converse. We certainly don’t share a lot of stories anymore. That makes me sad, because I know the value of a good story— it’s what I do for a living. Not only that, I’m a firm believer that everyone has a story to tell. Our lives are stories. Every time a person is born, the world starts a new story, a story that is uniquely theirs.

It can be hard to relate to people today with the impersonal ways that we communicate.

But if you listen to someone’s story—the joys, the adversities, the people they met along the way—it’s apparent just how interconnected all our paths really are.

Stories link us—they help us to understand what has happened, what is happening now, what might happen, and what will happen.

We have a tendency to believe that it’s the world’s “big” stories that define our history … You know, those like that of a brash multi-billionaire who against all odds won the presidential election. In doing so, we overlook the seemingly “smaller” stories that have had such a tremendous impact on our

history. The past, after all, isn’t just in the list of famous names and dates we find in textbooks. It’s everywhere. It’s in our buildings, it’s in our landscapes, it’s in the memories and experiences of all the people around us. It’s in your mother’s story, your grandmothers’ stories, and in the story of the stranger standing next to you at the gas pump. Put all those stories together, and you have history … or in honor of Women’s History Month, herstory. her Every woman, every day, shapes history.

Don’t believe me? The next time you’re in line at the grocery store, start up a conversation with that woman beside you with the interesting wrinkles and evident laugh lines. And then on your way home, call (don’t text, don’t instant message, but actually dial and talk to) your mom and ask her about her first job or the first election she voted in or what her neighborhood was like growing up—it doesn’t really matter what you ask, just get her talking. It’s my guess that you’ll not only make their day, you’ll hear stories far more entertaining than a YouTube video or the latest viral posts.

And the next time you look in the mirror and fret over the lines on your own forehead or the gray in your hair, be proud instead— they not only tell the story of your life, they are making herstory. her

-dana

DANA NIETERS

. PUBLISHER

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

Imagine your home, totally organized!

Custom Closets Garage Cabinets Home Offices Pantries, Laundries and Hobby Rooms

40% Off plus Free

Installation

40% off any order of $1000 or more. 30% off any order $700 or more. Not valid with any other offer. Free installation with any complete unit order of $1000 or more. With incoming order, at

2016 Š All Rights Reserved. Closets by Design, Inc.

time of purchase only.

Follow us

Call for a free in home design consultation and estimate

704-588-7272

LNW

www.closetsbydesign.com Licensed and Insured

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

7

46

22

p

p

IN STYLE … 100 YEARS AGO

ASHLEY HERNDON, Patriot Jack's Outfitters

woman

LKN

MARCH 2017

CONTENTS FEATURE S

in every issue

S/HE SAID WHAT?! : Influential Women

12

HERE THEY ARE: Dr. Louise Zhou & Dr. Swetha Gujja

20

SUCCESS STORY: The Mark Of A Good Woman

28

COVER STORY: Part Of Herstory Will Be Our History

38

WOMAN TO WATCH: Patty Moreira

46

SUCCESS STORY: Hitting It Out Of The Park

{

10

O N THE C OVER:

STEPHANIE CRISCO OF THE CHARLES MACK

32

WO M E N O N THE MOV E

36

34

5 T H I NG S TO D O I N MAR C H

SC ENE WI T H L KNW

CITIZEN CENTER PH OTO G R A PH Y BY: CHELSEA BREN

w

8 LKN

| MARCH 2017

18

p

38

p

HEALTH

48

PATTY MOREIRA,

THE TRUTH ABOUT RETAINERS—AND AGE

Denver Christian Academy

LISA CRATES PHOTOGRAPHY

MAKING HER STORY IN NORTH CAROLINA

p

20

CATHARINA HETTIARACHCHI,

Charlotte Center For Pelvic Health

HERSTORY

14

THE MOTHERS OF INVENTION

18

MAKING HER STORY: N.C. Women Who Made Their Mark

22

IN STYLE … 100 YEARS AGO

24

NOTHIN' BUT NET!

40

8 THINGS: Women Can Do Now That They Couldn't Do In 1960

HOME

26

WOMEN NO LONGER LIVE IN CAVES

SELF

44

SPRING FEVER!

50

MOMS MAKE DREAMS POSSIBLE

52

MIND, BODY, SPIRIT: Mother To Mother: Mary And Me

12

p

DR. LOUISE ZHOU & DR. SWETHA GUJJA, Southern Oncology Specialists

The MonaLisa Touch vaginal treatment is a simple, safe and clinically proven laser therapy that is changing women's lives.

• 3 Treatments • < 5 minutes each • Symptom relief after just one treatment • Non-hormonal Call (704) 663-2091 to learn more about this treatment!

John Woodward, MD MS Diane Parks NP-BC 111 Kilson Drive Suite #201 Mooresville, North Carolina 28117

EVER ITAL MD MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

9

s/he said what?!

JOANNA ROOP

“My mom was a woman of true courage.

She fully gave of herself in every area.

She was and will always be an inspiration and true blessing.”

ble py to be a p a h e ’r e W ny ize the ma n g o c e r o t , and l, creative influentia o omen wh selfless w e e a positiv d a m e v a h in the world n o t c a p im WOMEN’S honor of ut ONTH. B M Y R O T HIS re w that the o n k o ls a we n less wome are count ally ever form who are n d for their dge r acknowle s. In hono n io t u ib r t con sked men, we a o w e s e h t rs of ontributo c ’s h t n o IR this m N IN THE A M O W which ISTORY FAMILY H the most. d them influence

STEPHANIE CRISCO

“My mother, Luanne Sherron, taught me how to balance a career and motherhood.”

STARR MILLER “THESE WOMEN SHAPED MY YOUNGER YEARS: MY MOM, MY GREAT-AUNT KATHRYN, AND MY GRANDMOTHER STELLA, FOR WHOM I AM NAMED. MOM TAUGHT ME TO FEEL CONFIDENT; MY AUNT, A BUSINESS WOMAN IN THE 1920S, TAUGHT ME THAT I COULD BE ANYTHING; AND MY GRANDMOTHER TAUGHT ME GRACE.”

ADAM BREEDING

w

10 LKN

“My mother would do whatever necessary to ensure we had what we needed, but even more, to provide us the platform necessary to springboard forward and realize our own American Dream.” | MARCH 2017

PATTY MOREIRA

“My mother, Rachel Moreira, taught me the power of prayer, to be content, to laugh, and to never give up even when the world is unkind or unfair.”

Studio 73 Dance

Our 18 Seasonth

Ballet ~ Tap ~ Jazz ~ Lyrical ~ Pointe ~ Hip-Hop ~ Competition ~ Adult Classes

Empowering individuals to grace the stages of life through DANCE! www.studio73dance.com ( 7 0 4 )

8 7 5 . 9 9 1 1 MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

11

{ H E R E they A R E } LKN WOMEN WHO PERSONIFY WHAT MAKE LAKE NORMAN WOMEN SO GREAT

As a physician, you’re typically in the position of “teacher.” Have you learned any valuable lessons from your patients?

What would you like people to know about the treatment of patients with cancer?

SWETHA: We

all need to be grateful for what we have and appreciate the little comforts of life.

LOUISE: When I was doing my fellowship training, I had a 27-year-old male patient who was diagnosed with T-cell acute lymphoblastic leukemia. He was such a fighter but, unfortunately, he died eight months into treatment. His battle with cancer not only taught me about the strength of the human spirit but also that we should never, ever take our lives for granted. I still remember him; he inspires me to live my life to the fullest.

It is such a burden to be diagnosed with cancer, not only physically, but emotionally and psychologically, as well as for the patient and their loved ones. Patients and their families are so overwhelmed when they get diagnosed … having compassion and just simply listening to the patients and their families regarding their questions and concerns can go a long way.

LOUISE:

What would a “perfect day” be like?

SWETHA: I

would be able to deliver only good news to all my patients, treat all their illnesses and make them feel better, and then go home and have a good time with my family.

What advice do you have for young women who want to work in oncology?

Don’t let anyone make you believe that the field of oncology is depressing—it is much more gratifying than you might think!

The best part is being able to make a difference in our patients’ lives.

SWETHA:

DR.

LOUISE: Going through medical school is worth it in the end when you get the chance to make a difference in someone else’s life.

There’s nothing like telling one of my patients that they are cured of their cancer. The joy and relief they feel is why I do what I do. Young women should join the fight against cancer; it’s an ongoing battle, and we need more soldiers!

louise

Dr. Louise Zhou and Dr. Swetha Gujja are oncology specialists at Southern Oncology Specialists in Huntersville and Charlotte.

ZHOU

w

i am an LKN oman because…

I am committed to ensuring the health of our community. Without healthy individuals, it would be impossible for our community to thrive and grow.

By: Dana Nieters Photography By: Chelsea Bren

w

12 LKN

| MARCH 2017

DR.

swetha GUJJA w

i am an LKN oman because…

I enjoy being part of a group where everyone is so caring and appreciative.

Pure Reflection Spa for Wellness

915 Tate Blvd SE, Suite 174 Hickory, NC 28602 (828) 345-1290

Call TODAY for our FREE SEMINAR with Dr. Vickie Lovin

Renew your intimacy with the

™

Don’t let vaginal dryness take away your smile!

For the millions of women suffering from the painful symptoms of menopause, the MonaLisa Touch is a simple, safe, and clinically proven laser therapy that is changing women’s lives.  Non-hormonal  3 Treatments < 5 minutes each  Symptom relief after just one treatment for many patients  Thousands of women successfully treated since 2012

Do you have vaginal dryness, itching, burning, Lichen Sclerosis, or painful intercourse?

These symptoms affect millions of post menopausal women.

Now there’s something simple and safe that can restore vaginal health.

Smooth as Silk.

Refresh. Renew.

Cosmetic Procedures Botox® • Juvedérm® • Voluma Kybella® • Dysport® Restylane® • Rejuvapen • SilkPeel® • Chemical Peels Hair Removal • Photorejuvenation • miraDry®/miraSmooth

Skin Care Product Lines SkinMedica® • Elta MD®• Revision Skincare® • Latisse®

Naomi Simon, MD • Scott Paviol, MD Board Certified Dermatologists

Kristin Prochaska, PA-C • Lauren Wilson, PA-C Certified Physician Assistants 128 Medical Park Road, Suite 201 Mooresville, NC 28117 MooresvilleDermCenter.com

704.235.1827 MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

13

The Mothers of

Invention KEVLAR Stephanie Louise Kwolek was an American chemist who invented Kevlar, a synthetic fiber used as a reinforcing agent in the manufacture of tires, bullet-proof vests, and other rubber products.

THE APGAR SCORE Dr. Virginia Apgar designed and introduced the Apgar Score, the first standardized method for evaluating a newborn’s transition to life outside the womb.

Liquid Paper Bette Nesmith Graham was an American typist, commercial artist, and the inventor of Liquid Paper.

windshield wiper Mary Anderson was an American real estate developer, rancher, viticulturist (grape grower), and the inventor of the windshield wiper.

w

14 LKN

| MARCH 2017

EL EC T R I C WA T ER H EA T ER The electric water heater was patented by Ida Forbes in 1917.

the “Iron Woman” Eldorado Jones, nicknamed the “Iron Woman,” invented an airplane muffler, a lightweight electric iron, a travel-size ironing board, a collapsible hat rack, and an “anti-damp” salt shaker.

THE LIFE RAFT Maria Beasley invented the life raft among many other things, such as a barrel-making process.

underwater telescope

ope was patented The underwater telesc 45, allowing seaby Sarah Mather in 18 the depths of going vessels to survey time. the ocean for the first

For more information on women and their inventions, visit www.womeninventors.com.

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

15

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

17

15001600170018001900 2000

MAKING

HERSTORY N.C. Women Who Made Their Mark

Virginia’s baptism (Courtesy of the N.C. Office of Archives and History)

Courtesy of the New York Historical Society

Virginia Dare is the 1st English child born in North America (at present-day Outer Banks).

Women of Edenton sign the Edenton Proclamation boycotting English goods.

Dolly Madison becomes the first North Carolinian to become a first lady.

Harriet Jacobs escapes slavery in N.C. and writes Incidents in the Life of a Slave Girl.

Mary Jane Patterson, from Raleigh, becomes the first African American woman to receive a bachelor of arts degree.

1587 1774 1805 1842 1862 w

18 LKN

| MARCH 2017

1914 1921 1930S 1942 1957 North Carolina women found the state’s Equal Suffrage League.

Lillian Clement becomes 1st woman to represent N.C. in Congress.

Courtesy of the N.C. Collection/Pack Memorial Library

North Carolina women struggle through Great Depression.

U.S. Military creates women’s branches in each of the armed services.

350,000 women serve.

Wilmington women make mattresses at their CWA job. (State Archives of N.C., Box 144.)

Ella Baker, raised in N.C., moves to Atlanta and becomes a leader in the civil rights movement with Martin Luther King, Jr. Native American women marines stationed at Camp Lejeune in N.C. during WW II. (U.S. Marine Corps photo)

Courtesy of the N.C. Office of Archives and History.

Courtesy of The News & Observer

Courtesy of the N.C. Supreme Court Historical Society

Judge Susie Sharp becomes the first woman to serve on the N.C. Supreme Court.

U.S. Women’s Soccer Team wins first Olympic gold medal; UNC student Cindy Parlow is on the team.

Courtesy of The News & Observer, Raleigh © Walter Arce | Dreamstime.com

Elizabeth Dole becomes N.C.’s first female senator.

Danica Patrick of Kannapolis becomes first woman to win NASCAR pole.

Hillary Clinton is first female presidential nominee; North Carolina is a key state in election.

1962 1996 2003 2013 2016 MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

19

the mark of a

good woman

b

O R N I N I TA LY and raised in New

York City, Catharina Hettiarachchi, practice manager for Charlotte Center for Pelvic Health, has a unique blend of family history. The first in her family to graduate college, she also has the mark of a good leader, mother, and mentor.

“My mother is a Dutch immigrant from the Netherlands,” Catharina says, “and came to this country with only a 5th-grade education. She taught herself how to read and write English. My father is American born and raised of Irish/Italian descent. He travelled for work and met my mother in Holland. During the summers as a child, I visited my Dutch relatives frequently, which gave me a love for travel. I enjoy learning about and experiencing new cultures, and it gives me a unique ability to understand others’ perspectives.”

Catharina graduated from Bronx High School of Science and attended Lehman College. She earned a degree in nutritional science and completed her master’s degree from New York University in dietetics, food, and nutrition. She met her husband, Dr. John Hettiarachchi, lead physician at the Center, in school as an undergraduate.

“Because I was the first in my family to attend college, I refused to date until my studies were complete,” Catharina continues. “On the last day of finals, John and I sold our books so we could go on our first date. We fell in love and have been happily married for over 26 years.”

The Hettiarachchis have been blessed with four children: Alexander, 19; Olivia, 18; Lara, 14; and Robaer, 13.

Inspired by her children, Catharina says each has inherited her husband’s caring traits. She tells of Alexander who saved a friend’s life, pulling him from the lake and rushing him to the hospital; and of daughter, Olivia, who stood up to another student who was physically threatening a teacher.

w

20 LKN

| MARCH 2017

Catharina Hettiarachchi CHARLOTTE CENTER FOR PELVIC HEALTH CORNELIUS, NC

“I’m so proud of them all,” she grins. “Our other daughter, Lara, gets involved in every cause to help people, especially women and children, volunteering at church and battered women shelters; and Robaer, our compassionate little competitor, recently helped up a child from the opposing team who had fallen, foregoing his scoring goal. Their courage and kindness inspire me daily.”

The family moved to North Carolina 14 years ago so that her husband could open his urology practice. While Catharina had a successful career in medical nutrition therapy, specializing in oncology, she welcomed the move—and the opportunity to stay at home and raise the children. About six years ago, her husband asked her to join the Charlotte practice as office manager.

The practice has grown, and they have recently opened another office in Cornelius. Catharina explains that there are many nonsurgical options for female pelvic health and sexual function, but that most women shy away from this topic—as do their physicians, because many don’t know what treatments exist.

“We are here to guide women in their decisions with the many treatment options,” Catharina says. “I’m so inspired by my husband who works endlessly, caring for his patients as if each were his own family member. I can’t begin to tell you how many times patients have said to me, ‘Your husband saved my life.’”

By: Leslie Ogle | Photography By: Chelsea Bren

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

21

skimmer hats

FASHION

“skimpier” bathing suits for women

your style

sack suits

in styl style … turbans and big collars

100

ladies lace up boots

YEARS AGO

hair up-dos mary janes

striped pants for men

two-tone boots for men

w

22 LKN

big hats | MARCH 2017

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

23

!

T E N NOT HI N’ B UT

WO M E N W H O R O C K B A S K E T B A L L

SENDA BERENSON (1868-1954) Known as the Mother of Women’s Basketball, Senda organized the first women’s basketball team at Smith College in 1893. Perhaps rightly so, men were not admitted as spectators.

BABE DIDRIKSON ZAHARIAS (1911-1956) Although best known for track and field as well as golf, she also started her sports career excelling in basketball.

NANCY LIEBERMAN (1958-present) Nancy was the first female head coach (and the only woman to play) in a men’s professional league.

TERESA EDWARDS (1964-present) Noted for being the first woman to play in Olympics basketball five different years, she is also the

w

24 LKN

| MARCH 2017

© Fontip Dam-iam | Dreamstime.com

Since March is Women’s History Month as well as basketball conference and the NCAA tournaments, we thought we’d combine the two and take a look at women who have stood out in the sport. June 28 will mark the one-year anniversary of the death of Pat Summitt who, over the course of her career, accrued 1,098 career wins, the most in NCAA basketball history. Here are some other notables: youngest—and the oldest— gold medalist in women’s basketball at the Olympics.

LISA LESLIE (1972-present) Her accolades include winning the WNBA MVP three times; four Olympic gold medals; and two WNBA championships. Also, she played on seven WNBA All-Star teams.

CYNTHIA COOPER (1963-present) A superior guard who could score from just about anywhere on the court, this allstar was 34 when the WNBA began in 1997.

Subsequently, Cooper won the first two WNBA MVP awards and led her team to four consecutive league titles.

© Laurence Agron | Dreamstime

.com

For more information on all the great women who have impacted the sport, visit www.womenshistory.about.com.

Ah...Ah...Ah...

SPRING! DON’T TRY TO TREAT ALLERGY SYMPTOMS ON YOUR OWN. LET US HELP BREAK THE SEASONAL ALLERGY CYCLE. If your child suffers from seasonal allergies year after year, it’s tempting to try overthe-counter remedies that may help ease symptoms, but can leave your child groggy or drowsy.

Our board-certified allergists can test to discover exactly what your child is allergic to, create a customized treatment plan that over time can lessen the severity of her symptoms, and, in many cases, cure her allergies altogether!

LAKE NORMAN OFFICE: 19475 Old Jetton Rd. Suite 100 Cornelius, NC 28031 FOR APPOINTMENTS: Call 704.658.1122

breathe » live » thrive carolinaasthma.com

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

25

THE ELEMENTS OF DÉCOR: COLOR

If you like Lisa Vanderpump and want pink and white and crystals as your palette, go forth! If you like a moody, deep, saturated gemstone feel, please do. Consider a bit of a wallpaper punch; I have it on the ceiling of my personal space. The picture shown is in the color of the year, greenery.

It is fresh and beautiful.

SEATING

Make your sofa and chairs plush, comfortable, and feminine. Pick a color and fabric that makes you happy.

TABLES AND STORAGE

Women No Longer Live In Caves By: Starr Miller

and I went to the show, “Defending the Caveman.” The guy (I won’t call him "gentleman" because the point of the show was that he was not), who wrote and starred in the show started the craze, coining the term Man Cave. Since then, articles, books, television shows, and even websites have been devoted to a man’s need for a space in which he is free to decorate as much—or as little—as he likes, and with whatever he likes, without any regard or input from any females in his life. It was assumed that the woman had the whole house, especially the kitchen to call her own. Ha! I don’t cook!

IN 1996, MY HUSBAND

Does a woman need her own space, clean and free of kids and husbands? A group of clients and friends gave me a resounding “Yes.” When asked how they might use this room, my focus group got animated. It wasn’t sports, television, Internet, and leather; the women would use this space to: Read, write, think, and nap

Plan vacations and parties

Collect

Store table linens and holiday décor

Develop a business and/or philanthropic work

w

26 LKN

Schedule appointments, and pay bills

Craft, and create vision boards, scrapbooks, and drafts

Knit, sew, and make jewelry

Organize family treasures and kids’ homemade gifts for posterity

Listen to music

Girl-talk

Exercise, revitalize, and meditate

Starr Miller is the president and principal designer at StarrMiller Interior Design, Inc. Contact her at 704.896.3321, or visit www.starrmiller.com. | MARCH 2017

Many choose to make this space vintage. Consider lacquer paint on some of those finds in a brilliant color to make the room pop. Others go for Ikea, and accessorize with their personal touch.

FRAGRANCE

If you like candles, buy the best and light them often.

LIGHTING

Choose a fabulous chandelier, a fan, a vintage lamp, or a lamp that looks like a piece of art.

RUG

A wonderful rug will set the tone, define the space, and bring everything together.

WHAT DO WE CALL IT? In the 1600s, there was a room called the drawing room, a room where one could withdraw for more privacy. Some even called it a chamber or a salon. Today, we hear “Mom Cave” and “She Shed.” I don’t know about you, but I will never be found in a cave, nor a shed. So, I went back to my focus group. They suggested: creative zone, creative escape, or revitalizing haven.

What would you call your space? I call mine The French Room.

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

27

History y

PART OF HERSTORY WILL BE OUR

By: Amy Hallman Photography By: Chelsea Bren Historical Photos: Courtesy of the Town of Mooresville

w

28 LKN

| MARCH 2017

S

tephanie Crisco has grown her job as center supervisor for The Charles Mack Citizen Center—a job she landed when she was just 23 years old—to venue operations manager for the Town of Mooresville, which covers events at The Charles Mack Citizen Center, the Mooresville Golf Club banquet facilities, and the nearly completed performing arts center at Mooresville High School.

Her responsibilities at the Citizen Center are the same, and she’ll be managing the Mooresville Golf Club’s banquet space and managing the new 1,600-seat performing arts center for 52 days of the year! The performing arts center, which will open in the summer of this year, is part of the Mooresville High School’s auditorium and gymnasium construction.

Stephanie’s goal is to bring many different styles of musical acts—for all ages—to the venue and to bring series of six to seven theater performances, including off-Broadway numbers and residencies.

“I envision having season passes available to patrons,” she says. “I want to bring this culture to Mooresville; we won’t have to drive into Charlotte anymore for entertainment.”

This kind of planning and growth is exactly what Stephanie visualized when she began this career. In a previous interview, she said, “I love the energy of maneuvering the details: scheduling, timing, and flow.” Today, she has amped up her game.

“I like to know what my plan is,” she says.

“We’ve been working on this project for a little over a year.

Because it’s more and more difficult to get to Charlotte, we need to be able to accommodate dinners, hotels, events— and package deals—right here in Mooresville. If you look around town, it’s just perfect. We can continue to build our community around our kind, well-educated children and help them to be productive citizens.”

“The way I make

ʻit’ work may look very different from

the way someone else

makes it work."

Stephanie works on her community at home, too. She just celebrated her 10-year wedding anniversary with her husband, Ronnie, a family law, criminal, and construction attorney in Mooresville. The couple came to Mooresville when Ronnie was ready to pursue his law career. They have two children: Carter (7) and Natalie (3).

In 2014, she said she knew she wanted to be a representative for a company and be a conduit to the media. And she’s making that dream a reality by using her strengths. She admits that Ronnie is the cook in the family, but that she loves to be a host. She loves to customize the food, the favors, and all the details to the occasion’s purpose. Stephanie is in her element—

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

29

Following your instincts, dusting

yourself off, and moving forward pave the way to reach your dreams.

and Mooresville is fortunate to have her! Her down-toearth style coupled with her communications degree from UNC-Charlotte make clients feel at ease with Stephanie— like anything is possible.

Her story and her energy are inspired by the story of Carly Roney, the cofounder of TheKnot.com. “Roney started the business after, as a bride herself, she learned how

w

30 LKN

| MARCH 2017

difficult it was to plan a wedding,” Stephanie says.

“Think circa 1995—and no email. She took her own experiences and turned it into a tool that nearly every engaged woman visits for wedding planning. That is amazing. There were no business models for her as she created that company.

She had to rely on her gut instincts every step of the way; and I think that as women we often get that gut instinct about something!”

Following your instincts, dusting yourself off, and moving forward pave the way to reach your dreams. It’s what brought about Stephanie’s successful Southern Flair Bridal Fair events held twice a year—all her creation.

And it’s what brought about the Town of Mooresville entrusting her with the town’s eventplanning growth of now three large venues.

Stephanie recognizes that everyone has something to contribute, even though, everyone does not contribute in the same way. “The way I make ‘it’ work may look very different from the way someone else makes it work,” she says. “I’m very inspired by military wives, whose husbands have been deployed, and they are home with their four children. At the end of the day, an ‘Atta boy’ at work, or a snuggle and ‘I love you, Mom,’ can get you through some of the tougher days.”

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

31

women on the move Owner BARBRA BRYAN and The Goddard School in Mooresville raised $5,000 for the Charlotte chapter of Pinky Swear Foundation, a nonprofit national organization, which helps with the emotional and financial impacts on families of children with cancer.

Children’s Resale Sizes 0-14

For the fifth consecutive year, STARR MILLER of StarrMiller Interior Design in Cornelius has received two Best of Houzz Awards in 2017: Best of Design and Best of Customer Service.

Are you ready for spring?

Get your name-brand Easter and spring wear at up to 70% off retail prices!

20% off entire purchase Not valid with any other coupons or promotions. One coupon per customer.

LKNW-3/17 Expires 4/30/17

10035 Biddick Lane, Huntersville | 704-237-4441 Northcross Shopping Center (beside Staple’s)

childrensorchard.com | find us on

w

32 LKN

| MARCH 2017

The Board of Directors of the Executive Women of Lake Norman (EWLKN) announced its Board of Directors and officers for fiscal 2017. (L to R) ANNIE LEWIS (Annie Lewis Event Planning) will serve as president; CINDY MICHAEL (A Plus Network Transcription Service), vice president; DANIELLE RATLIFF (Serenity Now Massage Therapy), past president; TRICIA SISSON (The Range of Lake Norman and Ballantyne), secretary; ERIN GEE (Aquesta Bank), treasurer; VICKY TURNER (Perma Safety Tub Company) & ARLENE ARCIERO (Southern Homes of the Carolinas), membership; GWYNN LINDLER (LKN Fit Life) & DENISE HURLEY (N2 Publishing), programs & education; and TAMMI MURPHY (Blarney Stone Marketing & Design), communications.

calendar

12

5 THINGS AN LKN

w

OMAN SHOULD DO IN MARCH

5

SUNDAY, MARCH 5:

SIP & SEEK BRIDAL SHOW Rural Hill, 4431 Neck Rd., Huntersville 1 to 4 p.m.

The 4th annual bridal show includes complimentary wine, food, and door prizes and gives brides the opportunity to meet vendors personally. Some vendor discounts are available for those who attend. Register (and receive free attendance), via EventBrite, or plan to pay $5 to attend without registration.

3 S ATURDAY & SUNDAY, MARCH 11 & 12:

SATURDAY, MARCH 4:

MARCH FORTH 5K AND 15K Westport area, Denver, NC 7:30 a.m.

The 1st annual 15k and 5k race will benefit The Stand Firm Warrior Foundation, 501(c)3, supporting pediatric cancer research and awareness, focusing on alternative treatments to chemotherapy and radiation, and providing assistance for families of a child with a cancer diagnosis. The nonprofit was created in memory of BJ Correll.

Find online registration at: https://runsignup.com

w

34 LKN

| MARCH 2017

THE LATTA CELTIC FESTIVAL

5225 Sample Road, Huntersville 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Celebrate the Celtic culture throughout history.

4

T HURSDAY, MARCH 30:

“LIVE THE GOOD LIFE” HEALTH FAIR The Charles Mack Citizen Center, 215 N. Main St., Mooresville 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Image courtesy of Latta Plant

ation Facebook Page

Vendor booths offering various onsite screenings, a mobile mammography unit, blood drive, safe medication disposal box, door prizes, giveaways, and more.

Enjoy food and beverages, live music, Scottish dance performances, historical demonstrations, vendors, and Scottish clans.

Kids’ activities include games, storytelling, visiting farm animals, and more.

SATURDAYS, MARCH 11 & 17:

SAINT PATRICK’S DAY CELEBRATION & ANNUAL BLOCK PARTY The Galway Hooker Irish Pub, 17044 Kenton Dr., Cornelius

Pick one day—or both!—to celebrate with live music, vendors (old and new), food and, of course, green beverages! The big block party with be March 11, and a smaller party on the 17th.

Image courtesy of Mooresville Chamber Of Commerce Facebook Page

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

35

““ Scene

WITH

w

LKN

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 “SCENE

WITH LAKE NORMAN WOMAN!”

LKNW’s Michelle with Michael Ribas from Light Guidance High Performance Coaching LKNW’s Amy & Debbie Parrott, from Debbie Parrott Counseling, LLC, & at Polished Nail Bar

LKNW’s Amy & Taylor Fossett, from Carolina Waterfowl Rescue, at its donors and volunteer family visiting day

View more Scene photos & more at our Facebook page: Facebook.com/ LakeNormanWoman

w

36 LKN

| MARCH 2017

LKNW’s Amy & Elizabeth Lavan, owner of Nina’s Boutique, at Polished Nail Bar

Debbie Parrott, from Debbie Parrott Counseling, LLC, & Xhenis Levack from Lenox Salons Birkdale, at Polished Nail Bar

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

37

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

on FAMILY HISTORY: Though we had very little when I was in elementary school, growing up, our home was rich with love, kindness, and respect. My mom has Cuban heritage, and my dad was born in Ecuador and came to the U.S. when he was 9 years old. Because of that, I can cook Cuban/Spanish dishes and speak Spanish fluently. on SOLID FOUNDATIONS: I have two sons, Christopher (21) and David (19), both of whom are attending UNC Chapel Hill. Parenting is one of the most important roles we have, and this has driven my calling as an educator: to help children with their own success stories. Children have only one opportunity to go through school life, and it’s our duty, both at home and at school, to provide great education and spiritual guidance. on RESILIENCE: My world was rocked toward the end of 2010, when my husband, to whom I was married for 20 years, announced he wanted a divorce.

We began the divorce process in February 2011; then in March, I was diagnosed with thyroid cancer. The cancer was surgically removed during spring break that year. To say it was a year of transition is quite the understatement!

But 2011 made the three of us more resilient.

Patty Moreira Denver Christian Academy DENVER, NC

on CONNECTIONS: Denver Christian Academy provides a tailored approach to education. Every teacher at DCA knows each child and their families. By building those connections, teachers can personalize their lessons so that each student is motivated to succeed. Our teachers and administrators truly work together for the good of children. I enjoy working in schools where folks are respected and every member is just as important as the next. on WONDER: Since my boys grew up in Southern Florida, they never really experienced the change of the seasons. When they were 9 and 7, we visited Piney Creek, NC, for spring break, and we woke up one morning to falling snow. The joy on my sons’ faces is something I’ll never forget. I get that joyous feeling every time I see a child discovering their passions and unique abilities!

Patty Moreira is the head of school operations and an education consultant at Denver Christian Academy. For more information, visit www.denverchristianacademy.com, or contact Patty at 704.483.2207.

w

38 LKN

| MARCH 2017

By: Dana Nieters | Photography By: Lisa Crates Photography

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

39

1

8 THINGS

8 interesting milestones, events, scoops, trifles, or just cool stuff

GO TO HARVARD, YALE, OR PRINCETON

PURCHASE BIRTH CONTROL PRODUCTS

5

6

BECOME AN ASTRONAUT

w

| MARCH 2017

Things Women Can Do Now That They Couldn’t Do in 1960

7

By: Dana Nieters

SERVE IN COMBAT

40 LKN

8

© Piotr Marcinski | Dreamstime.com

4

3

2

SERVE ON A JURY

SECURE A LOAN IN HER NAME

© Seanlockephotography | Dreamstime.com

GET A CREDIT CARD IN HER NAME

8

KEEP HER JOB WHILE PREGNANT

䘀漀氀氀漀眀 甀猀㨀

圀攀氀挀漀洀椀渀最 渀攀眀 瀀愀琀椀攀渀琀猀 漀昀 愀氀氀 愀最攀猀⸀ 一䄀吀䠀䔀一 䔀䰀䰀䤀匀 搀搀猀Ⰰ 瀀氀氀挀

䄀 㨀 㜀 ㈀ 㘀 䄀 甀 猀 琀 椀 渀 匀 洀 椀 氀 攀 猀 䌀 琀 ⸀ 匀 琀 攀 ㄀ ㌀ 䐀 攀 渀 瘀 攀 爀Ⰰ 一 䌀 ㈀ 㠀 ㌀ 㜀 倀㨀 㜀 㐀 ⸀ 㤀 㔀 ㄀ ⸀ 㠀 ㈀ 㜀 ㈀ 圀㨀 䐀 攀 渀 瘀 攀 爀 一 䌀 䐀 攀 渀 琀 愀 氀 䄀 爀 琀 猀 ⸀ 挀 漀 洀

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

41

PA I D A DV E RT I S E M E N T

W Wome n’s Health ealth Symposium CHRONIC PELVIC PAIN PAIN IS A VERY INDIVIDUALIZED and

I recently had the opportunity to discuss this condition with a colleague, Dr. Smitha Vilasagar, who specializes in treating women with chronic pelvic pain. According to Dr. Vilasagar, many women see multiple physicians for evaluation of chronic pelvic pain before receiving adequate treatment. She states that pain is divided into two categories: acute or chronic.

Acute pain is what happens when you bump your toe, burn your finger on the stove, or hit your thumb with a hammer.

Acute pelvic pain can result from a ruptured ovarian cyst or a painful menstrual cycle. Typically, the pain can be linked to an event and improves with time. Chronic pain is much more of a mystery and can therefore be frustrating to patients and doctors. The most common sources for chronic pelvic pain are gastrointestinal, gynecologic, musculoskeletal, neurologic, urologic, or a combination of causes. The most common diagnoses are pelvic floor and vaginal muscle spasm, endometriosis, pelvic adhesions, irritable bowel syndrome, and painful bladder syndrome.

The evaluation of chronic pelvic pain begins with a thorough history of the pain and assessment on the impact that the pain has had on a woman’s life. This could include the inability to attend school, work, or social functions. In severe cases, the pain can limit activities with kids, family, and intimacy with a partner.

DR. SMITHA VILASAGAR

In addition to discussing the impact of pain on quality of life, a physical examination is performed to better localize the area of pain. Imaging with either an ultrasound or CT scan of the abdomen and pelvis often follows the physical examination. Blood testing may be performed in some cases.

The evaluation may involve a pediatrician, family physician, gastroenterologist, urologist, or gynecologist, depending on the initial presentation. A gynecologist to assess the female pelvic organs will eventually evaluate most women.

© Adina Nani | Dreamstime.com

subjective experience. For some, a stimulation or touch can be pleasant, soothing, or even sensual while others describe the same experience as painful or unpleasant.

Chronic pelvic pain is an unpleasant sensation and emotional response to a feeling that is constant or recurring for at least six months. Pain can be influenced by culture, emotions, past experience, and type of trauma.

The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology reports that approximately 15 percent of American women suffer from chronic pain. The cost of medical care and lost wages due to time out of work is nearly a billion dollars per year in the United States.

In the past, this often resulted in women undergoing a laparoscopy, or surgery to look inside the abdomen and directly visualize the pelvic organs. According to Dr. Vilasagar, this is no longer the routine because studies have shown that women with normal testing usually have normal findings at the time of surgery, and the surgery isn’t always beneficial even in the instance where early endometriosis or adhesions are found. This is a hard concept for many of her patients and physician colleagues to accept. In her experience, most patients want an explanation for their pain as much as they want a cure. Because the “why” is so elusive in many cases of chronic pelvic pain, we try to focus on treatment as soon as possible, she states.

Currently, the treatment of chronic pelvic pain involves hormonal medications to suppress the menstrual cycle and an interdisciplinary team of specialists including gynecologist, urologist, gastroenterologist, primary care providers, sex therapist, women’s health pelvic-floor physical therapist, massage therapist, acupuncturist, family psychotherapist, dieticians, and life coaches. Strong pain medications like narcotics are rarely of benefit long term and their use is discouraged. Because nearly half of women presenting with chronic pelvic pain are diagnosed with more than one diagnosis, a comprehensive approach provides resources to address all of the potential areas impacted by the chronic pelvic pain syndrome women experience. Unfortunately, we still don’t know all there is about this common condition. If a woman is suffering with chronic pelvic pain, I recommend she be seen and evaluated by a gynecologist and referred to a specialist who is engaged and committed to caring for women with chronic pelvic pain.

DR. G. BERNARD TAYLOR is an assistant clinical professor at the University of North Carolina School of Medicine, and assistant program director of the Carolinas Healthcare System Female Pelvic Medicine and Reconstructive Surgery fellowship program in Charlotte. He is a fellow in the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, and board-certified in obstetrics and gynecology and in female pelvic medicine and reconstructive pelvic surgery.

Dr. Vilasagar and Dr. Taylor practice at the Women’s Center for Pelvic Health; 704.304.1160 or 704.403.6350.

Explore Reflect Illuminate

Tell me what youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re thinking....

St a r r M i l l e r

Allied Member ASID F e a t u re d o n H G T V

Collaborate.Create.Captivate starrmiller.com | 704.896.3321

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

43

SPRING

fever!

© Wavebreakmedia Ltd | Dreamstime.com

A

hh, spring—rebirth, regrowth, new beginnings. Hope springs eternal, and there’s no time like the present to embrace change and to begin to see the world in perhaps a more encouraging and positive light. In fact, spring fever is a real thing. There are reasons behind that skip in your step—physical, scientific reasons. Here are a few symptoms and their causes:

U R G E T O E X E R C I S E It’s not unlike coming out of hibernation; the extra dose of sunlight gives your body more Vitamin D, which actually prompts you to get out and move.

C R A V I N G F R E S H P R O D U C E This makes sense because of availability and the fact that our great, great, great (and so on) grandparents would eat heavier foods during the winter months (to store up for winter, so to speak) and begin eating their fresher, lighter fare come spring.

S L E E P I N G L E S S The additional sunlight tells your body to produce less melatonin, a main ingredient in putting your brain in sleep mode.

S M I L I N G M O R E A 2008 WebMD study found that the transition to spring causes a chemical change—sunlight causes an increase in serotonin and activates endorphins which are both responsible for feelings of happiness.

S P R I N G C L E A N I N G While there are no biological reasons for this, the need to rid ourselves of clutter and deep clean the house after being cooped up all winter is so imbedded in Western culture that it seems to be ingrained in our subconscious … so, happy cleaning!

w

44 LKN

| MARCH 2017

For more tidbits on healthy living in all season, visit www.webmd.com.

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

45

Ashley Herndon PATRIOT JACK'S OUTFITTERS HUNTERSVILLE, NC

didn’t take long before she was swinging for the fences, too: “Of course, we butt heads on a regular basis, but that’s because we are both passionate about the business we are building together. I have learned so much about our business, and I’ve been able to bring new things to the table that we hadn’t thought of before!”

Hitting It Out of the Park Life moves. It doesn’t stop. It changes on a whim. And as we all know only too well, those curve balls that life throws our way can knock us right off our feet.

BUT THEY DON’T HAVE TO—

you could adjust your game plan, step up to the plate, and swing with all your might.

That’s what Ashley Herndon, and her husband, John, did when a curve ball came their way several years ago, and they hit it out of the park.

In 2008, Ashley and John had been together since she was in high school, and they were enjoying their life together in Kings Mountain.

She was a dental hygienist, he a civil engineer. But when

w

46 LKN

| MARCH 2017

the economy tanked that year, John’s employer had to make some cuts and he lost his job. John had some retail experience—after all, he met Ashley when they both worked for the same hardware store years earlier. So, when friends decided to open Patriot Jack’s Outfitters, a lifestyle clothing and footwear store, they asked John to be the manager.

Ashley and John saw the offer as a wonderful opportunity, and John accepted the position with gusto and optimism.

In 2013, the original owners, who were consumed by another business they owned out of state, offered to sell the store to them. John, at least, was ready for this curve ball. “He really loved the business,” Ashley says. “He had overseen the project since day one, and it was his baby.” Ashley, on the other hand, needed some time to warm up. “I was terrified to leave my full-time job and work with John … I wasn’t even sure which key opened the back door when I first started!” But it

The last two years have been particularly busy for the couple. In addition to adding to their family (their daughter, Mabry, is 18 months old), they’ve added a second location of Patriot Jack’s Outfitters that opened in Huntersville’s Northcross Shopping Center last fall. Both locations offer a wide range of essential products for all kinds of outdoor adventures, including clothing, footwear, sunglasses, and accessories. “We really try to stock what our customers want to see in our stores,” Ashley says. “They make our job fun!”

Of course, the fact that Ashley gets to shop for the inventory of Patriot Jack’s makes work even better. After all, who among us wouldn’t want to have shopping as our job description? “John laughs at times when he sees a style from the next season’s line that I’ve picked out, and he knows that I could see myself wearing it,” Ashley admits. “Sometimes it’s hard to shop for the customers and not myself!”

By: Dana Nieters | Photography By: Chelsea Bren

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

47

health

THE TRUTH ABOUT

Retainers—and and Age By: Dr. Matthew Lineberger

It’s been really hard to admit to myself … I’m told so many men go through it ... That it’s normal ... Not to be ashamed …

“Suck it up,” they tell me, “You’re gonna make it.” I smile and nod like all is well … But as I lie awake at night, reality hits me like a painful noogie from Wayne Arnold: I.have.a.Dadbod.

I F YO U A R E U N FA M I L I A R ,

a dadbod is: the physique of a man who was once athletic and muscular, most likely due to forced workouts and practices that come with organized sports. Now, he is unable to maintain a selfimposed workout schedule yet still eats like he’s training for the Olympics. He has retained his muscular legs while his stomach has lost all definition, may protrude significantly over his belt, and may have the appearance that would result from swallowing a full beer keg.

So, yeah. There it is.

Why am I talking about this odd topic as a male sneakerhead/orthodontist in a trendy woman’s magazine?

Waait foooor it….

For many women (and men) today, their smiles have sadly become dadbod-esque.

After a tortuous round of old-school braces, headgear, and lip-snapping rubber bands, (some of which horrifyingly encapsulated in senior pictures), every braces-survivor was given the notorious retainer.

The fear of going back into braces, the fear of disappointed parents, and the amazing empowerment of a new unleashed smile and the sensation that one’s teeth are gigantic (and slimy feeling) was enough to keep most wearing their smile-protecting retainer religiously. All was good in the world.

As we all know too well, the years fly by:

w

48 LKN

| MARCH 2017

College, late nights, mid20s, jail (just kidding), a puppy, kids, etc. Life gets crazy, and sadly, the retainer is forgotten. We were never told the truth: Retainers.Are.For.Life.

Orthodontic literature has studied teeth and aging extensively. Without our trusty old friend, the retainer, as we pile on the years, our lower front teeth will crowd up (almost a full tooth sometimes); old rotations of teeth, which were corrected orthodontically, begin to return; our once wide and beautiful smile will collapse inward and narrow; our front teeth lose their angulation and become more upright as our upper lip lengthens; lip fullness is lost; and we show less and less of that Hollywood smile we once had. Add in some everyday wear and tear, some pretty obsessive coffee intake, and some habits that Mom thought she had rid you of (nail biting?), and that youthful, almost annoyingly straight smile can become

almost unrecognizable.

Depressed yet?

The good news, y’all, is that unlike many things we lose in the aging process, the ability for our teeth to move freely never stops.

With a practice that is about 40 percent adult and as one of the largest and most experienced Invisalign providers in North and South Carolina, we are on the mission of “Bringing Smile Back” (queue the Justin Timberlake beat).

For y’all out there who may have noticed these subtle smile changes, there is more than hope, there is an answer, quite an easy one … just sayin’. But for me and my dadbod, guys, it’s just not that simple.

Dr. Matthew Lineberger, along with his partner and wife, Dr. Megan Lineberger, own Lineberger Orthodontics in Huntersville and Charlotte. He is a diplomate of the American Board of Orthodontics.

For more information, visit www. linebergerorthodontics.com, or call 704.892.3300.

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

49

moms make

DREAMS POSSIBLE

© Balkonsky | Dreamstime.com

Self

By: Adam Breeding

FOR ME, THE AMERICAN DREAM

is this idea that we all have the opportunity for success and prosperity no matter our starting point. An individual’s work ethic combined with the inherent freedoms every American citizen enjoys promotes upward mobility from one generation to the next.

My mother embodies this notion having grown up very poor (but proud and happy) in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Mom remembers—fondly, yet somewhat sadly, and mostly gratefully, I think—instances of being driven home from school by a friend only to pass her father on the roadside loading firewood for just a couple extra dollars. She wasn’t embarrassed, but her heart broke for him as he often took hard, menial jobs to provide for his family. She understood that those efforts were aimed at making her life better, even if only modestly so.

She would kindly ask her friend to stop, get out, and help him. Her parents were uneducated country folks, but they worked hard and instilled a treasure trove of values in their children. Of those seven children, my mother earned a master’s degree from the University of Virginia and became a regarded educator. Another sister also earned a master’s degree; a brother earned a

w

50 LKN

| MARCH 2017

doctorate and authored books; and another brother became the longest standing mayor in his town’s history. The youngest sibling sacrificed her career to care for her ill mother. She was the most selfless, well-liked person I’ll ever know. They all achieved successes in their personal lives that their parents probably could not have.

They all achieved successes in their personal lives that their parents probably could not have.

My mother’s story illustrates the American Dream. From afar, she and her siblings could not have been thought to amount to much. But, equipped with strong values and work ethic, it’s amazing how few barriers got in my mother’s way. Mom’s dream was synonymous with the American Dream: to create an even better life for her children with even fewer barriers. She accomplished that dream. Everything she did was geared toward providing for my brother and me. She would do whatever necessary to ensure we had what we needed, but even more, to provide us the platform necessary to springboard forward and realize our own American Dream. She

instilled in me a treasure trove of values: individualism, personal responsibility, ambition, and toughness, among others.

When opportunities arose to offer me refinement, exposure to culture, or access to things that made my life better, even when the means weren’t obviously available, Mom didn’t look the other way or pass me by. She stopped, got out, and helped.

My wife and I are expecting our first child this summer. Our child will have even fewer barriers because of Mom. The baby’s due date is Independence Day. As I do every year, I will read the Declaration of Independence this July 4th—I mean, really read it. I’ll consider the magnitude and beauty of the concepts within that point to the American Dream.

And, I’ll think of Mom; how she overcame challenges, embraced opportunity, and realized the American Dream.

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

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

51

…

…

MIND body spirit BETTER ME

BETTER YOU

BETTER WORLD

©Andybor | Dreamstime.com

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.

Mother to Mother: Mary and Me By: Joanna Roop

A S A M OT H E R O F T H R E E G I R LS , I can say that I have lived

and experienced some anxious moments.

I’ve had my share of sleepless, worrying nights. That’s not to say that I worry about everything. I have heard it said that no child is born with an instruction manual. Maybe there’s not an instruction manual of how to raise them, but becoming a mother did put me on hyper-alert mode for keeping them safe and being concerned about their wellbeing.

I remember having a conversation with a friend about a specific experience.

I shared some of my worries at that moment, and she said, “You should not be so anxious about this at all. You need to learn to give it to God and not worry.” I understood where she was coming from, and immediately thought of the scripture in Matthew that says, “Do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself.

Each day has enough trouble of its own” (6:34). But let me be honest: I understood what she meant, but I did not feel I could apply it. I did a lot of

w

52 LKN

| MARCH 2017

praying. I was desperately trying to figure out the secret sauce to not worry.

I started to think I was not such a good mom or Christian because I worried so much. How could I say that I believe in God and still worry?

So, I prayed and I prayed for guidance.

I thought of Mary in the Bible and wondered if she ever struggled with being anxious. Did she ever worry about her son? I embarked in some research.

What I found became my lifeline and turned Mary into a beacon of hope for me. In Luke 2:43, a brief story starts about Jesus at 12 years old. It tells us about his traveling with his parents and separating himself from them. When they find him, Mary said, “Son, why have you treated us like this? Your father and I have been anxiously searching for you.” (2:48). Sound familiar?

Mary had been told by an angel of the birth of Jesus. She accepted it. For that reason, she is to me a solid example of humility and submission to the word of God. She was a true servant of the Lord—and yet Mary experienced

anxious moments when she could not find her son. Yes!! I found deliverance from my own torturing thoughts about my shortcomings as a parent. Mary showed me that I can believe, be a servant, and continue to pray incessantly for my girls, but still experience some anxious thoughts. That does not make me less in God’s eyes. It makes me human, and it reminds me to be dependent upon Him. At the end of the day, we are all in this together. We are certainly not alone in our journey. I have learned to cut myself a bit of slack and to remember the promise in Philippians 4:13: “I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”

Joanna Roop is the founder and owner of The People Tree, a leadership development and consultation business, with 20 years corporate organizational development experience and certification. For more information, visit www.theppltree.co.

MARCH 2017 |

w

LKN

53

The world's smartest people have found that a SMILE is THE MOST attractive physical feature

Spring is a time for new Smiley beginnings To all our peeps, getting your smile enhanced will brighten your life. After all, it's science.

(Also, bring in these marshmallow treats for Dr. Matt at the exam and you will receive a discount as they are his fave sweet treat.)

WWW.linebergerortho.COM Stay in touch with us on Instagram @LinebergerOrtho

locations (704) 892-3300 (704) 892-3300