Lake Norman Woman Magazine May 2022 by Lake Norman Woman Magazine

TEACH, LOVE, INSPIRE—

featuring

GERI PALILLO WITH DAUGHTERS JAMIE, BRANDI, & RACHELLE OF VALERIA SALON, MEDSPA & BOUTIQUE

Breathe In, Breathe Out,

MOVE ON! pg. 34

lkn

MOMS

To Mom Mom,, With Love

An LKN Woman’s Tribute pg.20

INTO THESE HANDS

A Local Midwife Shares Her

joy

pg. 44

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704.895.6168 AD SUBMISSIONS:

ads@lakenormanwoman.com PO Box 1000, Cornelius, NC 28031 I THINK IT’S SAFE TO SAY MY CHILD-BEARING

years are over and as the mother of three sons, I’m certain I’ll never know what it’s like to parent a girl. But boys…

Please don’t misunderstand what I’m about to say—I love my sons with every fiber of my being—but there were days of mothering three boys in which I was certain I would lose my mind. After all, being the mother of a boy is not for the faint of heart. For one, it’s quite physical. There was a lot of wrestling and tackling going on in my household, resulting in a number of broken bones and more than a few concussions. Their physician was on my speed dial and we were on a first-name basis with the local ER staff. Raising boys is also destructive. That’s why I picked out carpet and wall paint as close as possible to the color of dirt and purchased a coffee table made of indestructible stone. And did I mention it’s gross? What is it about boys and their love of farts, boogers, and other bodily functions? The teenage years weren’t quite as rowdy or unhygienic, but they did bring their fair share of adventure. My adolescents frequently descended upon the refrigerator like a swarm of voracious locusts, and no matter how much I saturated their bedrooms with air freshener, they constantly reeked of smelly gym clothes and various other noxious fumes. There was a mysterious hole in the wall that somehow got blamed on the dog, a couple of sneak-out attempts that rivaled the escape from San Quentin, and enough eye rolling

WOMEN power

that it's practically a medical miracle their eyeballs didn’t get stuck that way. And we had a ghost. Things constantly disappeared and got misplaced, but no one knew how or why or where to—which left me to conclude that the only probable explanation was that a mean-spirited phantom took great pleasure in hiding things from us. If I’m being honest, there were times when I wondered if I would survive until they became adults…when I fell to my knees in their bedrooms, praying that God would not give me more than I could handle. He didn’t. Through His grace, I learned to relax more, to laugh (mostly at myself but also with them), and to trust my mothering instincts. And we made it. Now, there’s no better reminder for me that time has a way of sneaking up on us than looking into the man-like faces of my three grown sons. I try not to focus on my regrets—it's such a waste of time and energy—but if I could do it all over again, I’d not only grin and bear the shenanigans and lack of sanitation that marked their youth, I’d embrace it all. I’d probably still lose my mind from time to time, but that’s ok because I know that through my sons, mind-losing antics notwithstanding, I would find so much more—my heart and soul. If only I could locate all DANA JORDAN the things that ghost took. w PUBLISHER

DANA JORDAN

May

CONTRIBUTORS

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Oxana Behringer; Dr. Michael Foran; Kathryn Ann Hornberger; Starr Miller; Dr. Naomi Simon; Theresa Steighner; Nadine Wynn

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

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contents C E L E B R A T I N G

M A Y

T H E

S U C C E S S

O F

W O M E N

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community

22 INSPIRE LAKE NORMAN: Building Community Through Giving

family 16

TIPS, TRICKS, & HACKS: MOTHER'S DAY EDITION

Happy Mother's Day, Moms-To-Be!

health

48 Getting At The Heart Of Oral Surgery

HAPPY MOTHER' S DAY! AN LKNW TRIBUTE

home

INSIDE DESIGN WITH STARR MILLER:

Accentuate The Positive

38 Space Sells INCLUDING

Dr. Nicole R. Naylor WEST LAKE DENTISTRY

in every issue 52

WORDS MATTER

“The most important work you’ll ever do will be within the walls of your own home.” - Harold B. Lee AMANDA GLOWACKI OWNER / NC REALTOR ® 704-962-7889 amanda@amandakatehome.com

@amandakatehome

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DISCOVER home. UNLOCK happy.

PHOTO: OXANA BEHRINGER PHOTOGRAPHY

Shawn A. Hall ALL ROADS EDUCATION

YOU'D THINK MAY FOOLS BUT NOPE!

features

14 COFFEE TALK:

Dr. Nicole R. Naylor

20 HERE SHE IS: Shawn A. Hall

30 COVER STORY:

The WOW Factor

44 WOMEN TO WATCH: Carly Waller & Dr. Ashika Patel

NOVANT HEALTH SOUTH LAKE OB/GYN

44 20

12 HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY FROM LKNW

Dr. Ashika Patel & Carly Waller

self

18 8 THINGS: 8 Ways To

Support Our Teachers

8 WAYS TO SUPPORT OUR TEACHERS

34 Just Breathe 39 A BOOK LOOK:

A Grown-Up Kind Of Pretty

Mother's Day Edition

ON THE COVER: GERI PALILLO WITH DAUGHTERS JAMIE, RACHELLE, & BRANDI OF VALERIA SALON, MEDSPA, & BOUTIQUE

54 MIND, BODY, SPIRIT:

P H OTO G R A P H Y B Y: CHELSEA BREN

40 Don't Take Melasma At Face Value

50 TIPS, TRICKS, & HACKS: Building Resilience

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We've featured a lot of women in our pages over the past 15 years. And the one thing we all have in common? We've all been mothered, are mothering, or felt a mother's type love. So here's to Moms in every form, & some we've featured over the years!

Happy Mother's Day!

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CATERING LAKE NORMAN IS WHAT WE DO!

Catering & Event Coordination • Everything Weddings! • Private & Corporate Events On The Lake Boat Events • Film & TV Production Catering • Venues & Hotels Catering Showroom is by Appointment Only and located at 119 Landings Drive, #106 in Mooresville at the LangtreeLKN Center (Hotels, Services, Retail, Dining, Living) 704•438•9777 • www.LakeNormanCatering.com • www.LakeNormanWeddingCenter.com lakenormanw oman.com

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feature

COFFEE TALK

coffee talk: A sit-down chat with

DR. NICOLE R. NAYLOR,

owner of West Lake Dentistry

Our First Cup … there’s a latte going on!

I’m super busy being a dentist, wife, and mommy these days! My kids (Dr. Naylor has a daughter who is 7 and a son who will be 5 this month) are involved in so many activities right now and our life pretty much revolves around them. They both take piano lessons, do gymnastics, and participate in a workout club called Eyes Up at least one day a week. My daughter also dances for Studio 73 and my son plays T-ball. We are always on the go! And at work, we’ve begun partnering with Vivos to offer our patients the only FDA-approved appliance to treat mild to moderate obstructive sleep apnea. We are so excited to continue learning and to be able to offer such life-changing technology to our patients.

DR. NICOLE R. NAYLOR WEST LAKE DENTISTRY

This Is How We Brew It.

Keeping a routine helps keep peace in my life. I love to cook healthy, fun meals for the family, and most recently I’ve found some recipes that are on repeat at our house, such as chicken tacos, feta turkey burgers, and chicken veggie soup. And when it comes to routine, I have to give a shout out to Burn Boot Camp Lake Norman. My days would not be the same without getting started there bright and early each morning with the bestever workouts.

"I am constantly looking for ways to bring a smile to all of our patients. Personally, it’s my family, especially when we’re able to travel and explore together."

You Mocha Me Smile.

We’re The Perfect Blend. Hands down, the number one thing that keeps me grounded is my family. Watching my children grow is seriously the greatest joy of my life, and my husband is my rock. He is always there for me, feeding me with positive energy through the ups and downs of life. I feel blessed to be able to still have my career while being able to be with my children and family as much as possible. I am always trying to be more present at home and to always lead by example both at work and at home.

Professionally, making someone who hasn’t smiled in years smile always brings joy to my heart! Because of that, I am constantly looking for ways to bring a smile to all of our patients. Personally, it’s my family, especially when we’re able to travel and explore together. Traveling with the kids has gotten a little easier so I’m really looking forward to all our fun adventures ahead. w

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Dr. Nicole R. Naylor, Dr. Amber Brooks, and the entire staff at West Lake Dentistry provide advanced comprehensive dental evaluations for the entire family with state-of-the-art equipment. Contact them at 704.483.1870 or visit www.WestLakeDentalCare.com. They are located at 298 N. Hwy. 16, Suite E, in Denver.

WRITER

Dana Jordan

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ABA/Behavior ABA/Behavior Therapy Therapy

Physical Physical Therapy Therapy

Physical therapists work withtherapists children to Physical treat or workinjuries, with children to disorders that or affect treat injuries, their musculoskeletal disorders that affect function and their musculoskeletal development function and and determine speciﬁc development and goals for therapy. determine speciﬁc Individualized exercise goals for therapy. and manual therapies Individualized exercise are to achieve andused manual therapies those goals. are used to achieve those goals.

Occupational Occupational Therapy Therapy

Occupational therapists treat Occupational patients with therapists treat conditions that affect patients with social function conditions thatand affect activities of dailyand living. social function Sensory integration, activities of daily living. functional activities, Sensory integration, and social skills functional activities, training helps children and social skills develop the skills training helps children needed thrive developto the skillsin school, home andinplay. needed to thrive school, home and play.

Huntersville - 980-441-8200 Huntersville - 980-441-8200

Speech&Feeding Speech&Feeding Therapy Therapy

Speech-language pathologists treat Speech-language conditions and pathologists treat disorders that conditions andaffect speech, disorders that affect communication, speech, feeding, and communication, swallowing. feeding, andThey help children withThey help swallowing. communication children with delays through development communication delays of oral motor skills and through development language of oral motor skills and comprehension. language comprehension.

Applied Behavior Analysis, or ABA Applied Behavior Therapy, is to Analysis, ordesigned ABA help children on the Therapy, is designed to Autism spectrum help children on the increase social Autism spectrum behaviors and decrease increase social challenging behaviors behaviors and decrease and barriers behaviors to learning. challenging and barriers to learning.

Psychological Psychological Testing Testing We offer in-house psychological We offer in-house evaluations for children psychological who have been evaluations for children diagnosed or are who have been suspected diagnosed to or have are Autism Spectrum suspected to have Disorder. Autism Spectrum Disorder.

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family

Happy Mother’s Day Day,,

Moms-to-Be! FROM THE FIRST MOMENT YOU GET THE NEWS TO THE

nine months that follow and beyond, pregnancy and motherhood are not something you can truly prepare for—everyone is different and each situation unique. You will be bombarded with advice and unsolicited do’s and don’ts, so we will get you started with a few tips from Fit Pregnancy—

For more information on pregnancy and the first days of motherhood, visit www.fitpregnancy.com.

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lakenormanw oman.com

When it comes to maternity clothes, go with comfort! Don’t spend a lot of money on fashion—you’d be surprised how cute your hubby’s shirts look on you with a simple pair of leggings. And don’t be afraid to wear fitted clothes; your baby bump is beautiful!

Save receipts. You will be tempted to buy a lot of unnecessary items that you can exchange later for the essentials—like diapers! Have your newborn “room in” with you rather than stay in the hospital nursery; this is important bonding time.

Educate yourself about the birthing process. Knowledge is power and it will help you feel more in control. And it is good to have some understanding about C-sections just in case.

Breastfeeding seems to go more smoothly for women who nurse within an hour of delivery. Don’t be afraid to ask for help— most hospitals have lactation consultants on staff. Also, ask the nurses not to offer your baby a bottle.

Keep visitors at bay for a while so that you can spend time alone with the baby. Newborns are alert and receptive immediately after birth so it’s the optimum time to bond. Additionally, the baby knows your voice from being tucked in your belly, and it provides soothing comfort after that long trip down the birth canal!

It’s hard to resist all the adorable outf its you now have for your newborn, but remember that babies cannot regulate their body temperature until they’re about 6 months old. Generally speaking, the baby should wear the same amount of clothing as you do (indoors and out). And don’t bundle your baby too much—sweating can cause chills. Layers are a good option. w

lakenormanw oman.com

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self

8 THINGS

See if you can host a ﬁeld trip to your place of business or serve as a chaperone for class trips.

Volunteer for after-school tutoring. Give grocery store gift cards to your school counselor and they can get them to those in need.

support OUR

Checkout the library! Lots of opportunities for giving back reside among the books.

Give thanks. Whether in a handwritten note or a personalized gift, let teachers know they’re appreciated.

Ask! Parents need to get involved, so ask your teachers what they need and how you can help.

Donate basic school, art, and craft supplies.

Attend a school board or PTA meeting.

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feature

HERE SHE IS

Never a Dull Moment I hustle between managing my rising senior’s academic affairs and search for money while doing the same for clients. There is never really a down day because scholarships are available 365 days a year, and I am striving for greatness … obtaining monies that will change the trajectory of someone’s life. I’ve been known to text with my students at 2:00 a.m. because they know I’m up.

shaawn . hall

A Brief Introduction Originally from New York, we moved to North Carolina when I was 8, and I grew up in Greensboro. I went on to graduate from the first and oldest Black college for women, Bennett College. I have four daughters: Moriah, 24; Jael, 18; Grace, 17; and Zoe, 9. I was in the education field and got tired of people asking me about my credentials, so I decided to earn a second master’s degree … but this time a Master of Education. I started looking around to see what was available and I found out George Washington University had a program for those who would put an emphasis on working with students of diverse cultural backgrounds and special needs. When I realized they would foot the entire bill, I said sign me up! And that’s how I got a $40K education for zero dollars. To Mom, With Love My mother is my inspiration. She quit her teaching job to go back to college and get a master’s degree. The crazy part is that she hadn’t even been accepted into the school (Chapel Hill). She had faith in herself and God that she could achieve it. She did and then she went on to earn her Ph.D. She was in foster care for the first three years of her life and when I think of all she accomplished as a single parent, I can’t help but to be inspired. She showed me how to be an amazing mom and dedicated career woman by being a shining example.

ALL ROADS EDUCATION

Shawn A. Hall is a former U.S. Department of Education Program specialist who resides in Mooresville. She is a scholarship and college admissions coach and the founder of All Roads Education. The author of “Prepare Now, Don’t Pay Later,” Shawn is the mother of a high school junior, college freshman, college graduate, and elementary student. For more information, visit www.allroadseducation.com.

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Faith, Family, and Fortitude Jael was diagnosed with Bell’s Palsy when she was 2. I thought she was having a stroke and it was a scary moment, to say the least. Through that experience, I realized how important my faith is … I have to trust God with every part of me. My life was changed again when my godson died at the age of 12 from sudden cardiac arrest. Never did I imagine myself walking one of my best friends through the death of her child. She has since launched a foundation in his honor, gabesheart.org. Surviving the Storms There are no perfect days … something will go awry, so I plan for the unexpected and ask God to give me the grace to show myself and others mercy and kindness. I am a survivor of sexual abuse and domestic violence. I share that unapologetically because each person has wounds that you can’t see and that run deep. There were many dark days; however, I stand here today healed, victorious, and declaring “not another woman or child on my watch.” w

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community

INSPIRE LAKE NORMAN

Welcome to our new community outreach page, Inspire Lake Norman—Building Community Through Giving, where every month or so we will highlight charities from our area and provide information on how you can get involved. We want to give back, and the best way to do that is through you. If you’d like to have your favorite charity included in an upcoming edition, please email Leslie@lakenormanwoman.com.

Gabe’s Heart Foundation

INSPIRE LAKE NORMAN:

This month we celebrate Moms/Teachers/Coaches/Mentors, and we wanted to spotlight a few area organizations whose mission is to do just that … to celebrate and support those heroes in our lives as we all come together to Teach, Love, Inspire and to help our communities, our neighbors, and our children towards a healthier and more secure future.

Building Community Through Giving

The local women and children's shelter Hope of Mooresville (HOMe) provides temporary housing that helps their guests break the cycle of homelessness and get back on their feet. With a beautiful home where families live while they await placement into affordable housing, guests receive case management that includes budgeting, job placement, therapy, healthcare, and life skills training. On average, there are 100 identiﬁed homeless students in the two Mooresville school districts annually. Homeless students are more likely to underperform academically and have developmental delays as well as physical and mental health problems. HOMe is dedicated to providing long-term solutions so families can achieve self-sufﬁciency and give the next generation a solid foundation on which to thrive. Visit www.HopeOfMooresville.org for more information.

exists is to keep the heart of Gabriel Michael Jacobs beating by sharing his spirit of giving and always helping those around him. They do this through random acts of kindness that allow them to share the message of anti-bullying as well as raising awareness of sudden pediatric cardiac death. Gabe’s Heart Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonproﬁt organization that annually hosts a 5k walk the fourth Saturday in September for heart awareness and antibullying—which raises funds for Doing It Gabe’s Way Random Acts of Kindness to provide gas, groceries, food, clothing, sports equipment, and so many other creative acts of kindness. To lend a hand or ﬁnancial support, visit www.gabesheartfoundation.org.

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BJ Correll was 11 years old when first diagnosed with ALL (Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia) in September of 2012. ALL is one of the “most curable” of all childhood cancers, and BJ’s active treatment end date was set for January 4, 2016. On May 22, 2015, 7 months from that magic date, BJ’s mother was told that the leukemia was back. BJ fought for three and a half years. Stand Firm Warrior Foundation is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to helping fight childhood cancer by providing funding for supportive medicine initiatives for pediatric cancer patients and to bring joy to families of children with the disease. For more information visit www.standfirmwarrior.org.

Kids fighting cancer face social isolation, academic loss, and sadness brought on by their cancer diagnosis. In December 2019, the Cool Kids Clubhouse opened in Huntersville named in honor of Dan Jansen, Cool Kids Board Member and Olympic gold medalist speed skater. The Clubhouse hosts a variety of free programs that directly benefit local children with cancer, their siblings, and their parents. Children make new friends and gain confidence through the organization’s social, emotional, and academic programs; kids in and out of the hospital receive Smile Boxes filled with special gifts of love; families are strengthened during the Clubhouse’s counseling sessions … and each family is given a free vacation at one of the Cool Kids vacation condos! Visit www.coolkidscampaign.org for volunteer or donation opportunities.

Working at the YMCA as a camp counselor or lifeguard provides teens and young adults with key career-building skills that they can take anywhere as they prepare for college or their career. As an organization invested in youth development, the YMCA provides training and mentorships that give young leaders opportunities to develop life-long skills. The YMCA of Greater Charlotte is currently hiring day camp counselors, resident camp counselors, lifeguards, and swim instructors. Employees receive beneﬁts including free membership, referral bonuses, and more. The Y also has virtual Summer Job Info Sessions for anyone who would like to learn more about summer jobs. Learn more and apply at the Y by visiting www.ymcacharlotte.org.

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SPONSORED CONTENT

Co-Parenting Guidance for a Busy Summer Season Written by Robin M. Mermans, Esq., Owner of ROAD to RESOLUTION I F YO U ’ R E A C O - PA R E N T, you

It’s time to finalize the details for your summer co-parenting schedule. Work with your parenting partners to confirm and plan vacations, holidays, and celebrations. As your children get older, they may have their own obligations and commitments, so be sure to involve them in the conversations too.

know all too well how busy the summer months can be with children. It likely includes some challenges too – especially when it comes down to coordination and cooperation with your parenting partner. I can relate from a unique professional and personal perspective. Professionally, I’m a certified mediator, collaborative family law attorney, and certified co-parenting specialist through the Mosten Guthrie Academy. I’m also a mother and stepmother to five children, so I understand the reality of going from one home to two. Ahead of the summer season, here are six suggestions for coparenting families this summer.

BE DETAILED

Co-parenting coordination means paying close attention to the details. This comes down to times, locations, and logistics. Being detail oriented will help you stay organized and lessen the stress that comes with planning. 3

OVER COMMUNICATE

Communicate with your parenting partner, even if you don’t think it’s all that important. From activities that require a parental waiver to a minor injury resulting in a visit to the doctor. This is a great practice not only for the summer season, but all year round.

We’re Here to Help ROAD to RESOLUTION can help you effectively navigate your coparenting journey. Our legal team can provide co-parenting guidance before, during, and after divorce. Please give us a call at (980) 260-1600 and we can discuss your legal options through divorce mediation and collaborative family law. Our Charlotte-based team is here to help you and your family in the Lake Norman area and beyond.

980.260.1600

PLAN EARLY

ALLOW FLEXIBILITY

I think we can all agree that unexpected situations – good or bad – can happen at any given moment. This is common with children’s schedules just as much as a parent’s schedule. Give grace to your parenting partner because you never know when you’ll need it too. 5

SET EXPECTATIONS

Make sure you and your parenting partner are on the same page and have clearly set expectations for one another and your children. While it’s important to have flexibility as mentioned above, it’s also essential to create boundaries. 6

PUT YOUR KIDS FIRST

Co-parenting is difficult and sometimes differences between parents can make it even more challenging. I encourage you to look beyond it and put your children first. If there are disagreements that you can’t move past, consider bringing in a neutral third-party coparenting expert.

ROADtoRESOLUTION.com

Note: This article is intended to be informational only and shall not be construed as legal advice.

PRICOT LANE HUNTERSVILLE IS LOCALLY OWNED BY

HUNTERSVILLE RESIDENTS,

GEORGINA SUSSEWELL AND

HER DAUGHTER LEAH SUSSEWELL. IT’S A SPECIALTY BOUTIQUE THAT

OFFERS WOMEN'S FASHION APPAREL, JEWELRY, HANDBAGS, ACCESSORIES, AND GIFTS IN THE STYLES AND TRENDS CUSTOMERS ENJOY.

now open in birkdale village! 16 926 B ir k da le C o m m o n s Pk w y C , H u n te r s vi l l e , N C 2 8 0 7 8

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From that perfect date night dress to a comfy and casual outfit, Apricot Lane Boutique has everything you need to create the perfect look for any occasion. You can count on our expert staff to help you find what you’re looking for — and if we don’t yet have it, we’ll do our best to get it! We work tirelessly to make sure women of all ages are offered flattering, timeless, and fun clothing and accessories that are highquality and affordable. You won’t feel overwhelmed or out of place at our boutique. Our relaxed atmosphere is meant to give you the time and space to browse our lines, try pieces on, and make the perfect choice for you. Our stylists love to interact and engage with all of our customers, making sure you find the right color, size, and style. We love seeing your friendly faces in our women’s clothing store, and we’ll make sure your experience is easy, friendly, and all about helping you find exactly what you want. You are why we love to come to work every day! It is the mission of Apricot Lane Boutique Huntersville to offer each customer an experience that will be long remembered. Prior to launching her Apricot Lane Boutique on February 24, 2022, Georgina, a native of Jamaica move to the United States at 16 years old to attend college. She moved to Huntersville in 2001 with her husband Kenneth and daughters Danielle and Leah.

She worked as a Financial Services Professional for over 30+ years for one of the nation's largest private pension providers. She has directed a variety of sales and operational initiatives for a $400 billion (asset under management) life insurance company with proficiency in products such as 529 Education Savings Plans, Life & LongTerm Care Insurances and 401(k) Retirement plans including Mutual Funds. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Paralegal Studies, FINRA - Series 26 Registered Principal, NC Life & Health Agent, Chartered Mutual Funds Consultant CMFC® and Six Sigma Green Belt Certified. After a 35-year career in the corporate environment, she officially retired on April 1, 2022, to fully focus on her family and her boutique.

Leah, a graduate of University of North Carolina-Charlotte, holds a Bachelor of Science in Psychology and a minor in Dance Education. In addition to managing the boutique, she dances professionally for the Charlotte Honey Bees and teaches dance and choreography for groups and solo routines.

BOUTIQUE HOURS: MON - THURS: 10 - 6PM

FRI - SAT: 10 - 8PM

SUN: 12 - 6PM

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accentuate

INSIDE DESIGN WITH STARR MILLER

A ROOM IS LIKE A FASHIONABLE WOMAN.

As women, we need the basics: Hair, makeup, clothing, shoes to make it out the door. However, to finish a look we need accents that add charm, sophistication, or “bling” to bring focus to the face or other specific features. Jewelry and accessories to be specific. In the home you have the same need. A room will have general lighting such as recessed lighting or chandeliers. To read, write a list, or do a specific hobby you need task lighting that is achieved with table and floor lamps. But, to round out a room and add focus where you want it, you need accent lighting.

positive the

Starr Miller Founder and Principal, StarrMiller Interior Design Allied ASID, IDS, CAPS

Accent lighting is most notably the unsung hero of lighting. The best accent is the sconce. For pathway lighting, you will want to hang the sconce 66-72” above the ﬂoor. If everyone in your home plays basketball, you may want these even higher. Also placing them no more than 6’ apart will allow consistent lighting along the path.

Sconces can be used several ways: • To light a path down a hallway or up the stair • To emphasize a wall showing off the stone or other applications’ texture • To bring balance to a space or anchor a space • To light up a dark area of the room and even out the light • To bring focus to art or architecture • To make space more efficient in a bedroom with swing arm reading lights • To give the face less harsh lighting in a bathroom

For balance or anchoring a space we need beauty. It is like adding jewelry that says, “Over here!” It just ﬁnishes the space like earrings ﬁnish and focus the eye on the face.

To bring focus to art or architecture we often use specific gallery lighting.

In the bedroom or a reading nook swing arm lighting is often favored. It should be placed where the light sources are 30-36” above the top of the mattress or 6-12” above the shoulder when sitting.

To light up a dark corner you are not trying to pull the eye, just allow the eye to look at the room evenly versus focusing on a dark corner. This light can be functional, quiet, not eye-catching.

For emphasis lighting, you will need a sconce that shoots light up and/or down the wall making sure that the lighting is bouncing off the textures as intended. Also, do not forget to add dimmers to your switches. As the day moves into evening, you can change the mood of the room. Think of that exposed shoulder or sexy little black dress in beautiful lighting. To give your face a muchneeded break from the harsh downward shadows made by high center-hung wall lights in a bathroom, change to side sconces that give light from both sides of the face. You will see the effect and love it. Do not use Edison lightbulbs in this location. They will not provide enough light.

Sconces are worth the trouble and rarely in a builder’s plan. They should be in yours! |

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Our resident home-design expert, Starr Miller, has garnered local and national acclaim with more than 30 industry honors. An alumnus of the prestigious Parsons School of Design in New York, Starr has built a strong following as the principal of her sought-after design firm, located in Cornelius, NC. She feels the composition of a space must originate with the client’s unique perspective. Along with that perspective she brings together her team’s collaboration, design skills and refined processes in a way which results in truly captivating homes for her clients. StarrMiller Interior Design specializes in full-service interior design projects.

704.896.3321 www.StarrMiller.com

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feature

COVER STORY

Rachelle

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Geri Brandi

Jamie

id you ever notice WOW spelled upside down is MOM? And when you combine those two words you get Geri Palillo, owner/ artistic director at Valeria Salon, MedSpa, & Boutique in Huntersville. Not only is she the mom of four herself, but her own mother exemplified the WOW Factor for Geri growing up and continues to inspire her on many levels.

the

factor! WRITER

named my business in honor of my mom,” Geri smiles. “She owned her own cosmetics franchise when we were growing up. Seeing how rewarding it was for my mom to own a business while helping so many women feel better about themselves really inspired me. I’m blessed to still have her in my life.” Geri grew up in Niagara Falls, New York, and later moved to the quaint town of Lewiston, New York, located on the Canadian border. After attending Catholic grade school and public high school, she went on to college where she majored in television

Leslie Ogle

PHOTOGRAPHER

Chelsea Bren

producing and directing. When Geri realized that her curriculum required a non-paying internship, she decided the timing was right to pursue her dream … opening her own salon. With a new-found enthusiasm and her incredible work ethic firmly intact, Geri opted for beauty school instead and the rest, as they say, is history. She graduated from the Peter Piccolo School of Hair Design in Buffalo, New York, and moved to the Charlotte area in 1996. In 2003, her dream became a reality when she opened the doors to Valeria. lakenormanw oman.com

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Realizing her dream and getting to share it with her family is something Geri does not take for granted. “Although I had to go into a management role at the salon instead of a stylist, I am beyond grateful,” Jamie relays. “Sometimes life throws you curve balls, and you have to make the best of it. I was given a second chance at life which inevitably changes your perspective. I try to make the most out of every day and treat it like the gift it is.”

Not your everyday beauty salon, Valeria is what the ladies like to call “a destination of change” and that would be an accurate descriptor. From the ubiquitous mani/pedi to the most delicate medspa procedures and treatments, there is nothing ordinary about Valeria.

Using her inspiration and education, Geri and her three daughters have created a unique, high-energy salon environment that employs over 30 staff members. She and husband Jake have been married for over 38 years and have four children: Jamie, 37; Rachelle, 36; Jake, 35; and Brandi, 33. “I’ve always loved hair styling, cosmetics, and self-care having grown up around the industry,” Geri explains, “and this of course led me to beauty school. I still love it 41 years later, and the fact that I get to work with my three talented and amazing daughters is the cherry on top!”

“We are not just the best hair salon in the Charlotte region,” says daughter Jamie, part owner and manager, “we are a destination of change. Valeria has been an innovator in the industry, and I am so proud to be a part of it. I had always dreamed of going to work with my mom, so after high school I went right into beauty school while my parents built the salon.” As life often does, it showed up with its challenges and priorities took a turn during this time. Jamie developed encephalitis after a viral illness and nearly lost her life. Having to undergo brain surgery, she had to leave beauty school … but she was otherwise undeterred.

That gratitude for life is shared by sister Rachelle who is also part owner and serves as artistic director at Valeria. Rachelle graduated from the Aveda Institute of Charlotte where she learned cutting-edge styles and techniques from global industry experts. “Creativity, unmatched talent, and an open dialogue make Valeria a unique place to enhance your beauty and embrace the idea of wellness,” Rachelle says. “My parents were one of the first 20 years ago to create the large-scale boutique in a salon,” adds sister Brandi, the salon’s bookkeeper and mom of three. “Our slogan ‘Valeria Is Your One Place For All Your Beauty and Wellness Needs’ is what we are really all about. In fact, it’s more than a slogan, it’s who we are! Whether you choose to experience one of our many spa amenities, opt for our medspa services, get your nails done, or shop our trendy boutique, Valeria does it all in a way you’ve never experienced … we truly are unparalleled.” Realizing her dream and getting to share it with her family is something Geri does not take for granted. She has survived the storms and her Catholic upbringing gives her strength—carrying her through some of her darkest days. “I know our family can survive anything when we have each other and our faith,” she says. “And we have been through a lot, but it puts everything into perspective. We all love our careers, but we enjoy spending time together outside of work, too. We like taking family trips or just getting all the kids and grandkids together for a dinner out … table for 19 please!” w lakenormanw oman.com

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just EATHE

self

THE BENEFITS O F B R E AT H I N G EXERCISES

breathe in, breathe out, move on; a breath of fresh air; take time to breathe; moments that take your breath away. Clearly breathing is more than just our oxygen intake. Breathing exercises can help our entire mind, body, and soul find peace and health. It can improve everything from stress to digestion. Below are some of the benefits of incorporating breathing exercises into your daily meditation, prayer, or other mindfulness practices: TA K E A D E E P B R E AT H ;

ANTI-ANXIETY TECHNIQUES: Slow, rhythmic breaths stimulate the parasympathetic nervous system, which reduces the heart rate and relaxes the muscles and mind. When stressed, we tend to take shallow breaths that limit the diaphragm’s full range.

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PROMOTES SELF-LOVE: Breathwork allows us to shift from mind to body. When you connect to your breath, you begin to feel a deeper connection to self.

Again, our parasympathetic nervous system is affected by certain breathing exercises that calm the body and allow restorative sleep.

ENHANCES MINDFULNESS: Breathing exercises help us slow down and become more present in the moment—allowing us to better connect to the Now.

INCREASES ENERGY: Breathwork improves oxygen capacity in the blood which improves energy level and stamina.

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IMMUNE SYSTEM BOOST:

NATURAL SLEEP AID:

Conquer Barriers To Clear Communication.

Diaphragmatic breathing expands the lungs which increases efficiency in oxygen absorption. This in turn lowers the body’s cortisol (the primary stress hormone) and blood pressure levels thereby improving immune responses.

DIGESTIVE SUPPORT:

Breathing exercises increase blood flow which helps the digestive organs work more efficiently—speeding up metabolism and helping to stabilize blood sugar levels.

t LKN Speech-Language Pathology, our team of exceptional therapists has over a century of combined experience helping children and adults of all ages overcome speech and language disorders so they can lead more empowered lives. Call 704-641-0338 today to schedule a consultation.

COMMON BREATHING EXERCISE TO REDUCE STRESS: Place one hand on your belly; relax your brow, jaw, and shoulders; take a deep breath in through your nose for a count of four, exhaling through the mouth for a count of 6 while envisioning pleasant thoughts (something in nature for example). Feel your belly rise and fall. Repeat for one minute. w

Marianne Umphlett MSP, CCC-SLP Owner

Diane Drakulic MA, CCC-SLP

MA, CCC-SLP

Marissa Deddens Larkin

Kaitlyn Kimrey Miller

Jennifer Patel

MS, CCC-SLP

Amy Elder

MS, CCC-SLP

Above Main Street Books | lkn-slp.com 126 S. Main Street, Suite 2A, Davidson, NC 28036 lakenormanw oman.com

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of successful marketing campaigns for the opera house, she was simultaneously spearheading the branding strategy for Community Brewing Ventures.

and multi-tasking have always been Megan Miller’s strong suits. Whether she’s hitting a high A on the opera stage, transforming discarded opera house pamphlets into couturestyle dresses, self-teaching web design to manage an employer’s e-commerce site, or working full-time while side-gigging and raising a son — it’s safe to say that Miller thrives on a busy schedule. P R O B L E M - S O LV I N G

As Director of Marketing for Opera Carolina and co-host of the widely popular new podcast series XM Divas, Megan is recognized in the non-proﬁt and for-proﬁt worlds for her creativity, drive, and leadership; she brings enthusiasm for new challenges and creating integration strategies, particularly those that expand a company’s reach.

Having a schedule this demanding would be enough for most people, but not Miller. While she championed a series

www.marketingmezzo.com

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Fast forward to today with the introduction of Megan Miller Marketing, Charlotte’s newest female-led marketing ﬁrm. Rather than performing a non-stop balancing act between the stage, marketing the opera house, and branding local brew pubs, Miller sought to combine these efforts under one umbrella. IN A WORLD FULL O F C R E AT I V E S , BE THE ADVENTURER…"

Building strong relationships prior to even starting the company is what helped Miller form the foundation for her business. Because she spent so long fostering her professional relationships throughout her career, getting business to support her new company was much easier than she expected. “I had this whole plan to market my company after launching, basically doing the same thing I would do for a client but for myself,” she recalls. “But as soon as word started getting out within my personal network, I was signing contracts from people I’ve met and built relationships with in the past. I am excited to grow my marketing ﬁrm and continue to build new and long-lasting relationships well into the future.”

megan@marketingmezzo.com

home

Space T H E S E C R E T TO M A K I N G YO U R S M A L L S PAC E F E E L L A R G E R

T H E O L D E R I G E T,

the more I’m realizing less is better than more and keeping things simple is the key. Those two qualities are important when it comes to staging and showing your home, too. Luckily, there are some simple and scientifically proven techniques that come in handy when you are preparing to sell:

el ls! S

Paint one wall of the room an accent color. Keep things simple with your color scheme. Choose no more than three colors and carry them throughout the house. Choosing one wall to paint as your accent wall in each room will help take a small space and make it feel larger. It’s an optical illusion that works every time!

Let the light shine in. Plants thrive in natural light, as do humans. The latest scientific research coming from Loyola University shows increased natural light affects your endocrine system and metabolism making people feel better by increasing endorphins and serotonin, boosting your immune system, red blood cells, and circulation, just to name a few benefits. So, take down the drapes, open the shades, and let the light shine in! It will make anyone who enters the space feel more comfortable regardless of the size. If you’re concerned about people seeing in your windows, consider a reflective window treatment that allows you to see out, but others can’t see in; and the best part is it still allows light to shine in the room.

LKN EXPERT

Nadine Wynn is the CEO, owner, and founder of Team Nadine LLC and has served hundreds of families in the Lake Norman area over the past 18 years. Nadine’s offices are located at 19721 Bethel Church Road in Cornelius, and you can reach her at 704.806.6711 or visit www.teamnadine.com.

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Keep upholstery plain. Choose solid color fabrics, avoiding stripes or printed fabric. Try using a change in texture in a neutral color for added decorative accents such as throw pillows.

Declutter. Less is more when decorating a small space. Decluttering has an amazing effect on any room that makes the room look larger. According to a study recently done by UCLA, the exposure to clutter can increase the stress hormone cortisol within the bloodstream. Also known as the “ﬁght or ﬂight” hormone, high cortisol levels can lead to many health issues, including obesity. In essence, decluttering your home will not only make your room feel larger, but make you less stressed and feel better. Remember this saying, “If it’s smaller than a grapefruit, it’s just a dust collector.”

lakenormanw oman.com

Add reﬂective surfaces. You can make one of your walls mirrored or add a large, framed mirror. Another alternative is to buy mirror faced furniture, such as a curio cabinet. Either way, you need to let as much natural light shine in as possible, and reﬂections will amplify the light.

WRITER

Nadine Wynn

Dana Jordan reviews A Grown-Up Kind of Pretty by Joshilyn Jackson

A Book

LOOK

L I T E R AT U R E A B O U N D S W I T H

memorable motherly characters, ones that come in all shapes, sizes, variations, and forms. Some are excellent examples of motherhood and others are poor examples, but wherever they fall on the spectrum, these moms of literature showcase the virtues of motherhood in all its messy, complicated, astounding glory. Two of my very favorite fictional moms are the heroines of A Grown Up Kind of Pretty by Joshilyn Jackson. This 2010 (don’t worry, it’s still available on Amazon) novel centers around a big family secret and the touching yet very uncertain relationship between Ginny Slocumb, her daughter Liza, and Liza’s

daughter, Mosey. Each chapter is told alternately by each of their points of view, allowing the strength of these spunky gals to come through loud and clear as they face what Ginny believes to be the inevitable curse that Slocumb women face every 15 years. The “curse” began when Ginny found herself pregnant at age 15, and then history repeated itself when Liza became pregnant at 15 as well, making Ginny a 30-year-old grandma. Ginny is convinced that trouble will come calling again as Mosey approaches her 15th birthday, and it certainly does, although not in the form of a teenage pregnancy this time. (Although Mosey does take

multiple pregnancy tests just to be sure, despite the fact she has never been sexually active.) At its heart, A Grown-Up Kind of Pretty is a drama about what it means to be a family and what a mother will go through to keep one together. The Slocumb women don’t always make the best choices—an affair with a married man, drug addiction, and a really dangerous road trip attest to that. But they do take responsibility for those choices as their own, and even though damaged by the 15-year cycles of hard knocks, they are anything but weak. It is exactly because Jackson reveals their flaws that readers will come to love these broken yet brassy moms and cheer wholeheartedly as they find a way to become whole. w

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self

melasma

Don’t Take

at Face Value I F R E Q U E N T LY G E T Q U E S T I O N S F R O M PAT I E N T S A B O U T D A R K

patches or spots on their faces. While dark spots may appear from various dermatology conditions, many times, it is melasma. So it is important to get a diagnosis from a dermatologist.

Melasma may present during pregnancy or while taking birth control pills, as the rise in estrogen levels can contribute to skin color changes. However, melasma is also associated with sun exposure, thyroid disease, and even genetics, so in treating the condition, a dermatologist will also want to know one’s medical history to determine the best treatment options. More common in women with tan and brown skin, melasma is one of the most common reasons patients with darker skin tone seek dermatology care. And dermatologists understand that treating melasma requires a different approach depending on one’s skin tone. For example, some treatments can irritate darker skin and even make melasma worse. Dermatologists recommend treating melasma sooner rather than later, as it can be challenging to get noticeable results from treatment if you’ve had melasma for many years. Seek the care of a board-certified dermatologist to get the right kind of care for your skin.

LKN EXPERT

Eterna Aesthetics, a division of Mooresville Dermatology/Piedmont HealthCare, is led by board-certified dermatologist Dr. Naomi Simon and is committed to helping patients obtain healthy, beautiful skin. Visit www.EternaAesthetics.com, www.MooresvilleDermCenter.com, or to make an appointment with Piedmont HealthCare Eterna Aesthetics, please call 704.402.1072.

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So how can it be treated? Well, there isn’t one easy answer. Here are some of the considerations:

Pregnancy and Birth Control

Melasma that presents during a rise in hormone levels may fade once a woman gives birth or stops taking oral contraceptives. Protecting the skin from the sun and artiﬁcial light can also help.

Protect Your Skin

Melasma gets worse with sun exposure. Therefore, sunscreen is a must (whether or not you have melasma).

Medications

A dermatologist will ask what types of medications you are taking to determine if any medicines may worsen the condition.

Skincare Products and Cosmetics

Both may have ingredients that aggravate the condition. A dermatologist can recommend products that are less likely to contribute to melasma and what prescription topicals may help fade the darker areas. But in women with darker skin, this may not be appropriate.

Microneedling

“Topical therapies included topical tranexamic acid, vitamin C, platelet-rich plasma, non-hydroquinonebased depigmentation serums, and hydroquinonebased depigmenting agents. Topical therapy with microneedling improved melasma severity with a large effect (standardized mean difference >0.8) beyond 8 weeks, with best results seen at 12 weeks. Compared to topical therapy alone, topical therapy with microneedling resulted in an additional improvement in melasma severity with a moderate effect at 8 weeks and a large effect at 12-16 weeks. Microneedling was well tolerated across studies, with no serious adverse events reported.”1 - Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, April 2022 A new type of microneedling using RF (radiofrequency), SylﬁrmX Microneedling, is one of the most exciting treatment options for melasma. This FDA-approved, in-ofﬁce treatment is clinically proven to safely and effectively address a number of issues including melasma. Piedmont HealthCare Mooresville Dermatology Center and Eterna Aesthetics are one of four medical practices on the east coast that offer this incredible technology for the treatment of melasma and all skin tones. w

and serves as a reminder to make skincare a priority. As the largest organ of your body, the skin has exposure to UVA and UVB rays. Approximately 9500 people are diagnosed with skin cancer every day in the United States, making it the most common cancer. It is important to note that skin cancer can affect anyone - regardless of color. As dermatologists, we urge everyone to be proactive in protecting their skin:

M AY I S S K I N CA N C E R AWA R E N E S S M O N T H

Use sunscreen - every day, no matter the season. Check your skin monthly. Schedule an annual skin exam with a board-certiﬁed dermatologist.

Sources: American Academy of Dermatology 1- Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology, Volume 86, Issue 4, April 2022, Pages 797-810, Microneedling as an adjuvant to topical therapies for melasma: A systematic review and meta-analysis https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/abs/pii/S0190962221007672

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WRITER

Dr. Naomi Simon

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w w w. g r i f f i n . i n s u re

An agency built on relationships We work to develop lasting client relationships & a small town feel while using national resources, experience, problem-solving skills, and key insurance companies & underwriting relationships.

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HEAD INTO

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Buy One Area Get One Free!* If you are currently getting Botox and want to try Dysport, or just interested in trying an injectable for the first time to soften wrinkles, this is a great deal! Appointments will fill up fast, so call to schedule your appointment! • Available May 1 - 31, 2022. • $150 treatment fee for two areas of treatment. • All patients must call office for details to determine candidacy.

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*Treatment must be scheduled and completed by May 31, 2022. Special offer available to new Dysport patients. Offer not available to existing Dysport patients at Eterna Aesthetics and Mooresville Dermatology. May not be combined with any other offers or specials (except Aspire points).

Scan to visit our website, EternaAesthetics.com to learn more about this and all of our cosmetic and aesthetic services.

128 Medical Park Road, Suite 103, Mooresville, NC 28117 EternaAesthetics.com | MooresvilleDermCenter.com

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WOMEN TO WATCH L K N W R E CO G N I Z E S A WO M A N D O I N G E XC E P T I O N A L WO R K I N T H E L A K E N O R M A N CO M M U N I TY, A L E A D E R W H O I S PAV I N G T H E WAY TO C H A N G I N G O U R AT T I T U D E S A N D I N S P I R I N G CO N F I D E N C E I N T H E F U T U R E .

on BEING THERE FOR OTHERS:

CARLY WALLER NURSEMIDWIFE

DR. ASHIKA PATEL D.O.

women watch to

on FINDING INSPIRATION:

on MASTERING CHALLENGES:

CARLY: I enjoy being able to build long-term relationships with my patients in the gynecology as well as the obstetrical world. It is immensely satisfying when patients tell me that they speciﬁcally sought me out as their provider because they were looking for a Black midwife. They needed someone they can trust to protect them and advocate for them. I strive to walk in this path for them and honor their needs. Every day before I go to work, I pray that I will be used by God to bless and serve my patients.

CARLY: The most challenging aspect of my job is that I wish I could spend more time with patients during their appointments in the ofﬁce as well as in the hospital setting. It is the nature of working in the modern healthcare industry with its productivity demands that sometimes prevents this wish from coming to fruition. The way I've mastered this challenge is by deeply listening to the women I serve, asking questions and fully engaging during our visit so they have my undivided attention.

DR. PATEL: I realized that nothing was more fruitful than being part of a patient’s journey toward becoming a family. There is so much complexity to women’s health and so much to continue learning. My desire is to practice exemplary medicine that not only provides my patients with a safe journey through pregnancy but also through various stages of their lives.

DR. PATEL: I enjoy the frequent changes in medical complexities that I go through with my patients. Some days are ﬁlled with challenging diagnoses and management and other days are more routine. I can be in the operating room and navigate through complex surgeries as well as simple routine procedures. No single day is the same and I am always learning.

RELAXING AND FINDING BALANCE:

CARLY: I know beyond a shadow of a doubt that I was created to be a midwife, but my ﬁrst calling was always as a nurse, for which I am forever proud. My speciﬁc work as a midwife follows an ancient path of “being with women” that’s existed since the beginning of human civilization. I see it as a sacred work that is to be cherished at all costs.

We just moved into a new house, so I am spending a lot of time keeping up and tending to our new home. I am always busy spending time with and caring for my children. Beyond that I relax by listening to podcasts, watching my favorite television shows, and sleeping in when I can.

DR. PATEL: I feel inspired when I see my patients have healthy outcomes and watch them grow with their family. It’s an overwhelming feeling of pure joy when my patients come and tell me that I have played a role in helping them enjoy quality of life, especially when they have been struggling through painful journeys.

DR. PATEL: Recently I have been enjoying spending time watching old movies with my husband. It feels good to relax after a long day, but I have found it's necessary to de-stress by working out ﬁrst. I am not an avid athlete, but I feel better on the days I exercise. Plus, it allows me to eat dessert at night! w

CARLY:

Carly Waller, certiﬁed nurse-midwife, and Ashika Patel, DO, are with Novant Health South Lake OB/GYN - Poplar Tent located at 9955 Poplar Tent Road in Concord. Contact them at 704.316.4828 or visit www.NHSouthLakeOBGYN.org.

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WRITER

Kathryn Ann Hornberger

PHOTOGRAPHER

Oxana Behringer Photography

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COME HOME TO

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BEFORE

“Everything was professional and thorough! From the very beginning with choosing colors! The project started on time and all employees were prompt every morning, ready to work! Staying late to get the day's work done. The project transformed our home! Thank you John and your team!" – Nicole H., Spray-Net Customer

AFTER

THE PRODUCT Spray-Net doesn't use traditional paint… they use custom manufactured coatings created specifically for each surface with a finish that looks and feels brand new, not painted. Stucco, brick, hardie board, vinyl, gutters and trim, doors and windows, and kitchen cabinets each have their own Spray-Net coating that in some cases actually promotes longer life for the surface. The product won’t chip or peel and has a comparable warranty to brand new replacement, with considerably less cost!

THE PROCESS Spray-Net’s process is so unique that it’s been featured on HGTV and is a US patent holder. From their four-part pressure wash to preparation, application, and clean up, customers can expect a brand-new looking home free from brush strokes and roller marks of traditional painting. Did we mention the 15-year warranty?

BEFORE

THE WARRANTY When Spray-Net talks about a transformation that lasts, they mean it and stand behind their product and service. The application comes with a no extra cost 15-year transferable warranty against peeling or chipping. When you Spray-Net your home, the HERE’S A LIST OFfactor SURFACES SPRAY-NET CAN PAINT WITH THEIR CUSTOM COATINGS: transformation and wow is going to last!

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AS SEEN ON

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F E A T U R E D

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Spray-Net’s cabinet and exterior painting process is so unique that “We’re excited about helping homeowners throughout the entire it’s been featured on HGTV and is a US patent holder. What’s more, North Carolina area find a high quality and cost-effective solution Spray-Net’s 15-year warranty on peeling, is transferable, a value-added to transform and update their homes,” says John Mckeown, local If you have fallen outtheir of love withYou your feature for anyone looking to sell home. canhome’s head toappearance, Spray-Net Charlotte franchise owner. “While we offer a unique www.spray-net.com to check out the rangeappeal, of colors offered or just want to boost its curb give us a (custom call for a free solution, customer service is our true passion. The smiles on our colors are always an option, too). consultation. Don’t forget to ask about our military or marketingcustomers’ faces after they see their home for the first time is what drives and inspires us.” discounts, looking for the next amazing Whether you’re lookingastowe're boostalways your home’s value, dramatically John Mckeown is a local entrepreneur and has partnered with to grace these pages! increase the transformation curb appeal or give an out-of-date kitchen a refresh, Spray-Net to open the first location in the Charlotte area. this new, innovative, and eco-friendly trend in home renovations is John McKeown is a local entrepreneur and has partnered with available to you! Spray-Net to open the ﬁrst location in the Charlotte area.

Like your kitchen or exterior but are not in love with it anymore? Go for it. Rethink Renovation with Spray-Net’s custom coatings and application.

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Call (704) 885-2470 or visit www.spray-net.com to schedule a free quote/consultation

NOW

health

Getting at the Heart of ORAL SURGERY A SPECIAL EDITION Q&A

WHAT IS AN ORAL AND MAXILLOFACIAL SURGEON?

Oral and maxillofacial surgery is a specialty of dentistry that is recognized by the American Dental Association. To become an oral surgeon, one must first complete dental school. After graduation, the dentist must then complete an oral and maxillofacial surgery residency. This residency lasts four to seven years, depending on the program, and is the longest residency of any of the dental specialties. ARE ALL ORAL SURGEONS BOARD CERTIFIED? LKN EXPERT

Dr. Michael Foran is an oral/maxillofacial surgeon and partner at Carolina Oral & Facial Surgery (as well as Lake Norman Implant Dentistry), located at 19910 North Cove Road in Cornelius. You may reach them at 704.892.1198 or visit them at www.CAROLINAOMS.com.

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No. After completing residency, oral surgeons are encouraged to become board certified; and this is a two-year process that involves passing a written qualification exam, followed by a rigorous oral examination. Not all oral surgeons complete this process. Board certification is important because, without it, many hospitals will not allow an oral surgeon to operate in their facility. Having surgical and admitting privileges to a hospital gives an oral surgeon access to other medical professionals and equipment that are not available in the private office setting. Board certification is also required to be a member of OMSNIC, the largest insurer of oral surgeons.

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WHAT DO ORAL SURGEONS DO?

Oral surgeons are devoted to performing surgery on the head and neck area of a person. Much of this surgery is in the oral cavity. Oral surgeons specialize in the extraction of third molars (wisdom teeth) as well as infected and non-fixable teeth, and even healthy teeth that require removal for orthodontics and braces. But oral surgery is not just limited to the removal of teeth. Oral surgeons are heavily involved in the management of trauma to the face. They perform simple procedures such as fixing a small fracture of the jaw, to complete reconstruction of complex facial injuries. Additionally, these physicians manage simple to complex dental infections. Much of this management involves removal of the infection source as well as cleaning the deep areas of the head and neck to remove the extensions of the infection. Oral surgeons remove both benign and malignant lesions of the head and neck area and can provide moderate and deep sedation in their office as well as general anesthesia in some cases.

WHAT IS SEDATION DENTISTRY?

Any dentist in any specialty may attend short courses after graduation to receive a certificate to perform some level of sedation in their office. Oral surgeons spend four to five intense months as an anesthesia resident in a hospital setting and generally carry the more complex certifications of deep sedation and general anesthesia. They must also be certified in Advanced Cardiovascular Life Support and their offices must have crash carts that contain the same life-saving drugs and equipment that are used in emergency rooms and trauma bays. DENTAL IMPLANTS SEEM TO BE PREVALENT IN DENTISTRY TODAY. ARE ORAL SURGEONS CONSIDERED IMPLANTOLOGISTS?

No, the terms implantology and implantologist can be very deceiving and are marketing terms that anyone can use. The American Dental Association does not recognize implantology as a specialty; subsequently there is no such person as an implantologist. Preparing the mouth and the bone for dental implants and the placement of the implant itself is a large part of our training and specialty. Many oral surgeons have advanced imaging equipment that they utilize for implant planning and precise surgical placement. w WRITER

Dr. Michael Foran

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self

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

Personalize it! A quick search online shows lots of ideas and companies that will personalize just about anything. Think family recipes printed on a cutting board or hand towels; a quilt with all the kids’ photos on it; a jigsaw puzzle that is a family beach trip pic!

TIPS, A footprint on your heart. Make your child’s footprint in garden stone every year, alternating feet, and soon you’ll have a path of prints running through the garden as well as a growth chart.

& HACKS IO N M O TH ER 'S D A Y ED IT

Give the gift of memory. Frame photos alongside corresponding birthdays and other special dates like anniversaries. Or go a step further and create a family scrapbook.

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Think outside the gift box. Perhaps a picnic by the lake at sunrise; book a dinner cruise; or give a gift that will last: there’s a food-of-the-month club for an array of tastes—from wines, beers, and other libations to ice creams, cakes, candies, popcorn, sandwiches, pizzas, cheeses … even hot sauces and non-food items such as flowers and candles. Visit www.amazingclubs.com.

Sweat equity. Do some housework, wash her car, organize a closet or pantry, or do some other chores you know she’d like done. Plant her an herb garden or create a personalized area in the yard just for Mom: plant flowers; include a small fountain; get creative and have other family members donate something special to the project—maybe a special seashell from that year at the beach or a painted rock one of the grandkids made. w

SARAH

STUCHELL

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The quality of relationships is intrinsic to our well-being. Licensed marriage and family therapist with over 20 years of experience.

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AND A MILLION WAYS TO BE A GOOD ONE.” –JILL CHURCHILL

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Loss comes in many forms. Responsibility equals accountability equals ownership.

And a sense of ownership is the most powerful weapon a team or organization can have.

It may be the loss of a job, a relationship, or changes in health or retirement or transition of a loved-one from this life to the next. Please allow yourself to grieve in YOUR way and time. Let me guide you through the process to change your despair into hope.

– COACH PAT SUMMITT

Willetta Jones, MS, CGC Certified Grief Coach

FREE 30-MINUTE CONSULTATION provides you with the opportunity to ask questions. It is a great time to decide if we are the right Grief Coaches for you.

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PHONE

704.340.8400

W W W. A B I D I N G G R A C E L L C . C O M

“IT IS THE SUPREME ART OF THE TEACHER TO AWAKEN JOY IN CREATIVE EXPRESSION AND KNOWLEDGE.” –ALBERT EINSTEIN

BETTER THAN A

thousand days

OF DILIGENT STUDY IS ONE DAY WITH A

great teacher

–JAPANESE PROVERB

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BETTER ME … BETTER YOU … BETTER WORLD

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

BUILDING

RESILIENCE

has been tested during the past two years. During these unprecedented times, I have made the choice to shift my personal focus from being “busy” all the time to slowing down, being more present, improving my self-care, and building resilience. I T H I N K W E A L L C A N A G R E E T H AT O U R R E S I L I E N C E

What exactly is Resilience you might ask? Resilience is our ability to quickly come back to a place of peace and balance when experiencing a trigger or stressor. A person with high resilience experiences stressors or triggers less often, with less intensity and the stressor or trigger does not last as long. Highly resilient people are able to stay in the present moment, RESPOND rather than REACT and decide wisely, skillfully, and gracefully what to do next. These are characteristics of someone living in the healthiest version of themselves or based on The Adult Chair® model what is called living in our Adult Chair. People with lower resilience experience many behavioral, cognitive, physical and/or physiological issues. When a person with lower resilience experiences a stressor or trigger, they may feel overwhelmed, become anxious, have racing thoughts, are unable to think clearly, or become depressed. Physical/physiological issues may include muscle tension in the neck and shoulders, headaches, IBS, inflammation, chronic fatigue, and sleep issues. When experiencing a trigger or stressor, many of us go into fight/flight mode or shutdown without even realizing it, and our nervous system becomes stuck.

Below are four “power tools’’ to help you build resilience: B E L LY B R E AT H : The belly breath slows everything down. First put your hand on your belly and slowly inhale for a count of 4 into the belly pushing out your hand. Hold your breath for 4 counts and then on the exhale gently push your belly in and release more and more air out for a count of 4-6. After doing 2-3 rounds, notice what is different in how you feel. G E T I N N AT U R E : Nature regulates our nervous system and brings it into balance, so prioritize outdoor time—take a walk in the park, kayak on the lake, or walk barefoot on the grass. M E D I TAT I O N : Meditation allows us to witness our thoughts and calm the mind. You could start by spending 1-5 minutes in the morning and 1-5 minutes in the evening as a daily meditation practice. I love the freeguided meditations on Insight Timer and Headspace. We all can spare 5-10 minutes during the day to take time for ourselves. B R E AT H - C E N T E R E D YO G A : Slow, mindful yoga calms the nervous system and rewires the neural pathways to repattern our habitual responses into healthier patterns. I practice and teach a therapeutic style yoga (Viniyoga) that is adaptable to everyone. w

Theresa Steighner owns Peaceful Wellbeing, a life coaching and therapeutic yoga business (peacefulwellbeing.com), where she helps clients transform into the healthiest version of themselves. As a certified Adult Chair® coach and certified yoga instructor, she works with clients to build resilience, better manage stress and anxiety, cultivate healthy relationships, build self-worth, and live the life they desire.

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WRITER

Theresa Steighner

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Lake Norman Woman Magazine May 2022

Articles inside

COVER STORY

Happy Mother's Day Moms-To-Be!

INSIDE DESIGN WITH STARR MILLER:

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY FROM LKNW

COFFEE TALK

HERE SHE IS