Lake Norman Woman Magazine October 2022

WE ARE PERSISTENT THE DEARING TEAM PROMISE

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

WE ARE PASSIONATE

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

WE ARE AUTHENTIC

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

AS I LOOKED AT THE WEATHER TO PLAN MY upcoming beach wedding on the beautiful North Carolina coast, it got me thinking about the storms in our own lives and how life itself is “hurricane territory”—a place in which we nd ourselves battening down the hatches and searching for safe harbor time and time again.

ough I’m fortunate enough to have never faced cancer, I have certainly weathered my share of storms … hurricanestrength storms that had me feeling as if I were alone on a tiny life raft about to be swallowed up by the turbulent waves that were crashing all around me. ose feelings of isolation and vulnerability not only overwhelm me as I attempt to ride out the storm, they can be downright terrifying. My guess is that is what a cancer diagnosis must feel like, too—as if you are all alone in the middle of a tempestuous storm, barely able to stay a oat.

It doesn’t matter how strong we are, all of us endure times in our life in which our hearts are breaking and we feel like we’re sinking. It’s then that we discover our “lifeboat people”—the ones in our lives who don their life vests, climb aboard, and face the storm beside us, no matter how wild the ride. It doesn’t matter if you’re in the middle of a relationship storm; it doesn’t matter if your storm involves a health crisis, like breast cancer; it doesn’t matter if your storm

scares the bejeebies out of them … your lifeboat people will not hesitate to get in your boat and man an oar.

Sometimes the people who hop in our boat are exactly who we expect, and sometimes, those we expect to weather the storm with us abandon ship. We learn a lot about them, either way. I realized that the people who bailed during my storms are never going to be who I need them to be, and that’s ok—they have their own voyage to sail. e people who did hop in my lifeboat came in all kinds of forms: family and friends, acquaintances, strangers, and even, I’m convinced, a few angels. Some of them did some really heavy rowing, keeping my boat on the surface when I was sure it was going under; some of them simply placed their hand around my waist, letting me know they were there if I needed them, that they wouldn’t let me drown.

In the wake of a perfect and stormless beach wedding to my soulmate last month, with some of those aforementioned lifeboat people still by my side, I know that there are clear skies and smoother sailing ahead of me—after all, every storm runs out of rain. Not only that, I’ve got a boatload full of family and friends who I’m not about to let down. And should they ever nd themselves in the midst of their own hurricane, I will be by their side and they will hear me say loud and clear, “Hand me an oar and scooch over, I’m getting in your boat.” w

Lake 1000, Cornelius,

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fri ds

How our friendships help us manage stress, enjoy life more, and even live longer!

HOW POWERFUL IS FRIENDSHIP? An online article from e New York Times entitled “How to be a Better Friend” points to researchers at the University of Virginia who wanted to nd out whether friendship in uences how we approach the challenges of daily life. “In an unusual experiment,” the article states, “researchers stood at the base of a steep hill (a 26-degree incline) on the university campus and asked 34 students as they walked by to help them in an experiment. Some students were by themselves; others were walking in pairs. Each student was given a backpack lled with weights equal to about 20 percent of their body weight.

“While the students may have had the impression they were going to have to climb the hill, the researchers simply asked them to estimate how steep the climb would be … students standing alone perceived the hill slant as steeper and thought it would be harder to climb while carrying the weighted pack. But students who were standing next to a friend thought the hill looked easier to climb and gave lower estimates of its steepness. Interestingly, the longer the two friends had known each other, the less steep the hill appeared.”

Similarly, there have been other studies that support the notion that friendship helps us cope with stress. When female college students were asked to complete challenging math tasks, their heart rates went up. But when they were asked to complete the math problems with a friend in the room, their heart rates were lower. w

Research suggests that friends can change our view of challenging situations and lower our stress levels. Having that kind of support essentially helps us share the burdens of life—which in and of itself provides health benefits, including longevity. Here are a few other friendship facts from The New York Times article:

One study of nearly 3,000 nurses with breast cancer patients found that women without close friends were four times as likely to die from the disease as women with 10 or more friends.

Friends can run errands, cook meals, babysit, and provide an array of helpful services that do in fact, literally, lighten the load!

People with strong friendships are less likely than others to get sick, perhaps because they have lower stress levels.

Researchers have found that certain health behaviors appear to be contagious and that our social networks — in person and online — can influence obesity, anxiety, and overall health and happiness. b ef s

For more information,

A Personal Blend

I came to the world of holistic health due to my own health challenges. Applying my knowledge to correct my own issues has been huge for me … it made me realize how much I appreciate the compliant patients who will do what they need to do in order to improve their circumstances. Seeing changes in people’s lives and watching them take care of themselves with enthusiasm and self-love—that keeps me motivated! Nothing makes me happier than to hear someone say to me I helped them, and they are feeling like themselves once again!

What’s New in the Brew

My son is 35 and my daughter is 31 and both have busy careers and lives. I am so blessed that they live here locally … with my four grandchildren and one on the way! Professionally, I just opened my third office in Indian Trail, and as a result I see more patients virtually now … this helps with the logistics of driving to three offices. I also have topnotch managers at each location and an operations manager who oversees all three. This helps me tremendously and I am truly blessed to have such a loyal intelligent team in all my offices! I’m fairly simple and don’t use my phone as an appendage like some people do. I use notes often to remind myself of appointments but still keep an old-school daytime planner to stay organized.

Our First Cup

I was raised in Huntersville and now we (my husband Tom and our Giant Schnauzer, Amos) live on 500 feet of beautiful Lake Norman shoreline. I acquired it through my grandfather in 1964, and five generations have been coming up here … needless to say, I have seen quite a few changes since then. I started my career in my father’s insurance agency, and I am still an agent holding four licenses. As such, I kept seeing people get sicker and sicker and taking more meds than ever. I knew there must be a better way and I wanted to make a difference. I went back to school and received a degree in holistic health, a certification in integrative nutrition, and a master’s level certification in bio-identical hormone therapies. My first ANY LAB TEST NOW® was opened in 2008.

You Can’t Pour From an Empty Cup

I would like to express to women everywhere that self-care is the most important thing they can do. Women have such a heavy responsibility in today’s world! From working, raising a family, etc. they tend to put themselves last. Do the right thing and keep yourself healthy and focused. Self-care is a must! I see it every day in my offices—women want to “do it all” and I’ve seen this even in myself, sometimes we put ourselves last on the list. My favorite saying is “you can’t pour from an empty cup.” The best thing you can do for your family, your work, and success in general is self-love and self-care—work hard, stay positive, and love yourself! w

Lori Van Popering is the owner and Holistic Health Coach at ANY LAB TEST NOW® located in North Charlotte at 10106 Ben eld Road, Suite 103, (704.665.5010) in South Charlotte at 8318 Pineville-Matthews Road, Suite 708, and in Indian Trail 622 Indian Trail Road (980.665.0505).

Visit www.anylabtestnow.com/charlotte for more information.

WRITER Leslie Ogle Chelsea

A sit-down chat with LORI VAN POPERING at Any Lab Test Now

LORI

Nicole Abinanti MD John Black MD Andrew Crane MD Amrita Devalapalli MD

Robert Dufour MD Alan Harrell MD Nneka Jimoh MD Heather Kaneda DO

May Kassem MD Matthew Locker MD MS William McGarry MD Shawn Quillin MD Jeffrey Ralston

DO David Scovill MD Yanki Tumer MD

A BOOK

DANA JORDAN reviews

MOST OF US WOULD AGREE that cancer is not a laughing matter. It’s not funny in the least. In fact, it’s the opposite of funny—it sucks. But maybe we’re missing something. Our ancestors, after all, seemed to understand that laughter is not only good for the soul, it’s also good for the body. e Book of Proverbs references the healing power of humor. Ancient Greek physicians prescribed visits to comedians for their patients. Clowns were high-ranking members of many Native American tribes. And more recently, Tania Katan, in her book My One-Night Stand With Cancer, describes how humor helped her defeat breast cancer not once, but twice.

Tania was as terri ed as any cancer patient when she was diagnosed at the age of 20… and then again at age 30. In fact, she even contemplated ending her life. But when her mother’s kleptomania of waiting room magazines ramped up to an absurd level, Tania found herself smiling. And when her best friend suggested they mock everything to do with breast cancer instead of shying away from it (they said things like “breast wishes instead of “best wishes” and “that’s the breast idea I’ve heard!”), she found that its terrible power over her was diminished.

She discovered other things about her battle to mock, too. When an operating room nurse asked her to mark on a diagram

of the human body an “X” over the breast that the surgeon should remove, Tania was abbergasted. “He doesn’t know which one he’ll be removing?” she asked. en, instead of the “X,” Tania drew a scar on the right breast with an arrow pointing to her left breast with the caption “Repeat Performance.”

Tania’s story is both hilarious and heartbreaking at the same time. But isn’t that how life is? We all experience struggles that are hard to bear; Tania allows us to see that sometimes we need to laugh hard at life. w

My One Night Stand With Cancer by Tania Katan

pinka ual

BECOME AN AMBASSADOR. When you become an NBCF (National Breast Cancer Foundation) Community Ambassador, you support others through their breast cancer journey. See all the ways to get involved at www.nationalbreastcancer.org.

HELP A CANCER PATIENT. Help organize meal deliveries, rides/errands, housecleaning, babysitting, and other tasks to assist those in need. WAYS TO

PARTICIPATE IN A RUN OR A WALK . Visit www.komen.org for details on their 5k and other events in your area.

HOST A FUNDRAISING EVENT. Get creative with a bake sale, crafts, a bingo tournament, or social media marketing ... organize your own phone-a-thon, talent show, or partner with a local pub for a trivia night.

WEAR PINK. Wearing a pink ribbon - or pink clothes - is an easy way to show your support. Have some fun with pink nails, hair, and accessories.

THIS MONTH!

DECORATE A BULLETIN BOARD. Get some friends/ coworkers together and create an informative, fun bulletin board or banner in your workplace, community center, or church.

EDUCATE YOURSELF AND OTHERS. There’s power in numbers so organize a group to do research and meet regularly to share your findings and experiences.

VOLUNTEER. Whether it’s by yourself, with your family, or with friends and coworkers, give back with your time. w

pinkthriver spo ight

Dezrene Gerald

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Finding my way to North Carolina.

I was born and raised in Boston and graduated from Newbury College in Brookline, Massachusetts, with a bachelor’s degree in business administration and a heavy concentration in accounting. I also have an associate degree in food service management. I relocated to Winston-Salem in 2001 and moved to Charlotte in 2008. I have three beautiful daughters ages 30, 19, and 13 and two high-IQ grandchildren who keep me on my toes … ages 11 and 6.

See you on the other side of healed.

… but cancer doesn’t have me! On July 21, 2022, I was diagnosed with stage 3 invasive mammary carcinoma. It was a total shock. There’s no way to fully explain or express the feeling that comes over you when the doctor gives you this news. After getting through that day and talking with my family and close friends, I awoke the next morning and told myself: “They say I have cancer but cancer doesn’t have me. I will get through this and beat it!” I immediately went into prayer mode. I continued with my exercise routine and followed an overall healthy lifestyle regimen. I have now finished doing all my testing and have a couple more appointments to attend.

What feeds my mind, body, and soul.

I have a profound love for music and the arts—dancing, singing, creating healthy and delicious meals in the kitchen. I also enjoy rollerblading, reading, hanging out with family/friends, and researching and studying medicinal plants for my new business, Karibseed Essentials.

I truly believe that God wants me to be a voice in this space to inspire and uplift those going through the same thing— who may not have any faith or hope to make it through this journey. I am living proof of God’s grace, mercy, and healing power … if you just believe and have faith. I am a naturalist and a firm believer that we can heal ourselves using herbs and food as medicine. Isn’t it ironic that one of my lifelong goals has been to become an herbalist and/ or have a strong influence and presence in the holistic market? My plan to beat this disease is to use a holistic approach and, if needed, combine with traditional medicine. This is why I have decided to become a patient at Utopia Cancer Center in Tampa, Florida. In the first five days, they already had me in to see their holistic dentist and scheduled me for surgery … the dentist found cavitation in my wisdom teeth bones which could be a major contributing factor to my cancer diagnosis.

Olivia Newton -John thought words matter, too, so she insisted on being called a “Thriver” instead of “Survivor” since, in her view, “surviving” brought images of clinging to a life raft when in reality, “I am thriving,” she smiled in her Sandra Dee way. It is with great homage and respect that we share the following with our readers—Thrivers right here in Lake Norman making Olivia proud by carrying on her indomitable spirit, courage, positivity, and love. To all of you within these pages and beyond, we are hopelessly devoted to each and every one of you …

Cheri Lofquist was diagnosed with breast cancer at age 36. She had seen a dimple on the side of her breast while out of town. “I had my first mammogram and biopsy as soon as I got home, and it turned out I had breast cancer. I was in shock! I thought how could I have breast cancer at such a young age? I totally broke down. Finally, after pulling myself together, I told myself I will beat this—cancer is not going to take me down!” Cheri had a mastectomy and eight treatments of chemo but like the true Thriver she is, she continued teaching and working out like she always had. “My job, friends, family, faith, doctors, and exercise kept me positive, strong, and courageous. Yes, I did lose my hair but no wigs, just scarves and cute hats,” she smiles. “I have been cancer free for 18 amazing years now and have retired from teaching after 20 years (although I still sub … love the kids!). I am a real estate broker with Roost Real Estate/eXp and have an 11-year-old son that keeps me young!  thriving!

In December of 2018, Heather Sapp, new mom to her 10-month-old son, went in for her very first mammogram at just 35 years old. It wasn’t until her followup appointment in 2019 that she discovered she had Stage 0, Ductal Carcinoma In Situ. After hearing the chance of it coming back—even after the doctorrecommended unilateral mastectomy—would be 25 percent, she chose to do a double mastectomy. “As a woman of faith,” she says, “my mantra and verse through this journey was and still is James 1:2-4 — ‘Consider it pure joy, my brothers and sisters, whenever you face trials of many kinds, because you know that the testing of your faith produces perseverance. Let perseverance finish its work so that you may be mature and complete, not lacking anything.’ I’m so thankful for this valley, as hard as it was and even still is emotionally, I see the bigger picture of helping others who have or are or will be walking a similar journey.”

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Roxann Wesolowski felt a lump in her breast in 2018; she had just had her mammogram so she was not overly concerned. Still, she made an appointment immediately. “The doctor walked in with my husband and I knew the news was bad. I had stage 3 invasive lobular carcinoma, and it had spread to my lymph nodes. When you are told that you have cancer, the world stops. It stands still and waits for you to take a breath. After meeting with my doctors, I made the decision to have both breasts removed with immediate reconstructive surgery. I was also scheduled for eight rounds of chemotherapy and six weeks of radiation following treatment. I decided

to do my own research and it turned out, despite having already endured four rounds of chemotherapy, I didn’t need chemo at all! I encourage women to do their own research, get a second opinion, and ask questions. And surrounding yourself with friends and family is essential to your recovery. A family friend who plays for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers had special cleats made with my name and picture on them to wear for My Cause My Cleats (an NFL charity event) … coincidentally they were playing the Panthers and he had three interceptions … life is good!” and picture on them to wear for My Cause My

A week shy of her 49th birthday, Cammie McHugh was diagnosed with breast cancer. Having lost her mom to breast cancer eight years prior, she was diligent with mammograms. “That year,” Cammie shares, “I had been called back for a second mammogram … I somehow knew they would find a malignancy. I’ll never forget hearing those words: “It’s breast cancer.” The next week seems like a blur, but I

very quickly made the decision to have a double mastectomy. I am blessed that it had not spread to my lymph nodes, and I would not need radiation or chemotherapy. I almost felt guilty at times, remembering what my mom had been through after they found it in HER lymph nodes. One of the biggest blessings to come from this experience has been the opportunity to help other women. It seems like every few months I get a call from someone who knows my story and has a friend who’s about to embark on the same, needing that ever-important support and encouragement. I was blessed to be surrounded by family and friends who lifted me up throughout my journey, and I am grateful to be able to do the same for others.”

Maria Marvels Stubbs, founder of Pink Victory Breast Cancer Foundation, is a three-time breast cancer survivor. “I battled breast cancer in 2002, 2006, and 2017,” she shares. “In 2017 the cancer came back on the right side from 2002. I had surgery (over eight hours), and I was in the hospital for six days and then in a nursing home rehab for two and a half months. It was a rough journey for me but my faith in God continues to see me through. I have learned that if you trust in God, His light will shine through in magical ways. When you have faith in God, you don’t have to worry about the future as much … you just know it’s all in His hands and you go about your day and do the best you can. I like to remind women that early detection does save lives. I want to encourage anyone battling this difficult disease to fight your fight because you will WIN.” w

l kingYour Best When You’re Not Feeling Your Best

BEVERLY WAS ONLY 37 when she found out that she had breast cancer. She was a devoted wife, a mother of two young daughters, and a suburban homemaker. She always took pride in taking care of herself and her family. I know all this because she was my mother.

My sister and I were 8 and 10 respectively when she got sick. My parents never really discussed “adult matters” with us. We never had those family gatherings at the kitchen table or in the family room. I knew that something was wrong, though, and I didn’t understand what was going on for quite a while.

One of the snapshots in my mind was remembering Mom sitting in our family room with a neighbor friend, sipping co ee and quietly crying while they talked. I also recall, a few weeks later, when my dad, sister, and I went to pick Mom up at the hospital. I don’t remember how long she was in the hospital … maybe a week. We were so excited to see her and bring her home, but I felt that something was seriously wrong. We still hadn’t been told anything speci c … Dad just told us that she had undergone surgery and we needed to let her rest at home. I didn’t know this

at the time, but she had just undergone a single mastectomy.

My mother was a proud woman. She always took care of herself physically and looked the part of the stylish, suburban housewife—even during her recovery. She didn’t let this setback diminish her style, even during this challenging time. Mom loved to sew and taught me the basics of fashion, and it saddens me that she didn’t get to see me start my own personal styling business. We lost her 13 years ago. I will always be proud of her style and her strength. w

Here are a few things she did to keep herself looking and feeling her best:

Use color in your wardrobe. Wearing sunshine yellow and happy green pieces will automatically lift you up! It will bring a smile to your face and others around you. Wear your favorite colors every day.

Take the time to make the effort to dress beautifully when you can. Choosing pretty items that you love to wear, along with a little blush and lipstick, will make you happier than sitting around in grey sweatpants and a naked face. How we dress and look is connected to how we feel!

Jodi Vose is a Personal Stylist and Image Consultant who lives in the Birkdale area. For more information, contact Jodi through her website Wardrobesolutionsbyjodi.com. You can also follow her on Instagram @jodivose, Facebook-Wardrobe Solutions by Jodi, and LinkedInJodi Vose.

Meditate. While this isn’t a fashion tip, it will help you feel beautiful inside. Let your light shine … that’s where the true beauty is—within!

It’s time to treat pajamas, nightgowns, and robes as high fashion. Try new styles; bed jackets are great. They feel fancy and will keep you a little warmer.

LKNE XPERT

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SHOULD I TAKE THE Genetic Test FOR BREAST CANCER?

THE BREAST CANCER (BRCA) GENE TEST is a DNA analysis taken from a blood or saliva sample in order to identify harmful mutations within the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes in people who are at a higher risk of developing breast cancer or ovarian cancer than the rest of the general population.

Deciding to take this test through a clinically approved lab that is certi ed by the Clinical Laboratory Improvement Amendments (CLIA) may allow people with the BRCA gene mutation to personalize their breast cancer screening plan, gain in-depth knowledge about their cancer risk, and investigate options that may reduce the risk of developing cancer.

is test may also provide family members with the opportunity to assess their own risk and determine if genetic testing may bene t them as well, as the children of people with a high-risk gene mutation have a 50 percent chance of inheriting the mutation.

e fear of the unknown can be a particularly unsettling demon to encounter, especially when dealing with the knowledge that you may be at a higher risk of developing breast cancer. In the United States, 5-10 percent of breast cancer cases may be traced back to an inherited gene mutation. Approximately half of these cases are linked to Breast Cancer genes 1 and 2, known as BRCA1 and BRCA2. w

You might be at an increased risk of developing breast cancer due to an inherited gene mutation, and you should discuss things with your personal physician if you have:

A personal history of breast cancer diagnosed before age 45

One or more relatives with breast cancer, or an unknown or limited family medical history

A personal history of two or more types of cancer

A personal or family history of ovarian cancer, prostate cancer, pancreatic cancer, or male breast

A personal history of breast cancer and Ashkenazi (Eastern European) Jewish ancestry

A history of two or more relatives with BRCAassociated cancers

A history of breast cancer at a young age in two or more blood relatives, such as your parents, siblings, or children

A relative with a known BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation

Information compiled from www.komen.org

TOPno there is mountain

“IT’S ALWAYS EVOLVING … every time we reach a goal or meet a challenge, we have a new one.” A heed-worthy notion coming from a woman who continues to conquer the business world, nurture her family, and enjoy the climb because, according to Laura VanSickle (Owner of ClosetsbyDesign in Charlotte), “the success is in the journey … the success is in the climb, and the climb never stops.”

WRITER Leslie Ogle PHOTOGRAPHER Chelsea Bren

With her “never stop” mentality, Laura may always be climbing the mountain, but she has earned a place in life where her vantage point and gratitude are indeed at the top. And while success is sweet, it has its own set of challenges. Laura and her team must continuously evolve and re-invent themselves, especially in today’s climate. ey have been able to adjust their sails, adapt, and hold true to their standards.

Growing the business, which literally started on Laura’s back porch nearly two decades ago, has been a mission for her; and today that small shop is a 38,000-squarefoot manufacturing facility and

showroom that has much more in its own closets than … well, closets— think laundry rooms, pantries, wall beds, media centers, hobby rooms, or whatever kind of space you desire.

“Right from the beginning,” recalls Laura, “we were committed to being the very best at what we did. I was one of the only designers when we rst started, and I was determined to give people the great product and experience that I promised them because I am a woman of my word. at still holds true today. I think our personal commitment is the secret to our success. Today, we have over 20 designers and 10 installation crews, but we are personally engaged

with each and every one of them.”

Originally from Long Island, Laura had a thriving career in NYC, serving as editor for both and US Magazine.

After a move to Boston, she began freelance writing for national publications including Self, , of the

Ladies Home Journal, and People . She has interviewed and written articles on the likes of Angelina Jolie, Robert Downey Jr., and Christopher Reeve.

Although Laura could not imagine being a southern gal, another move for her then-husband’s work would bring her to Charlotte … and, as it

would turn out, to her forever home. She completely fell in love with the area and knew immediately it was fate divine— she had found where she wanted to be.

Upon her enthusiastic arrival to the Queen City, three kids in tow, a space dilemma presented itself in her new house in the form of a large, disorganized closet. “Honestly,” she admits, “it was a mess! I suddenly had this huge closet but couldn’t nd a thing … it had one wire shelf and a rod. My uncle owned a custom closet company in New York, so my mom asked him if he would design a closet for us. I ew up there, rented a U-Haul, and brought all the components back here to Charlotte. When we built the closet system, I couldn’t believe how it changed my life. I absolutely LOVED being organized! It saved time in my day, made me more e cient, and gave me so much peace of mind. I truly believe our product can make a di erence in people’s lives. I see it over and over again. at’s why it’s so satisfying … and why I never get bored with what I do.”

In addition to her three grown children (Sarah, 28; Jackson, 25; and Christian, 23), Laura has a strong support system in both her personal life and at work. Her sisters and mom live close by, and most of the family members have worked for the business at some point. “I am so blessed and grateful for my family as well as my work family,” she smiles. “We all pride ourselves on remaining positive in life and lifting each other up when needed.”

At the center of it all—her family, her success, her work, her gratitude, her joie de vivre—for Laura, it is God: “I believe that no matter the obstacle, God has my back and He will work things toward my betterment in the end. at doesn’t mean I won’t have to go through struggles … but when I look back, my most challenging times were the times I have grown most as a woman, as a mother, and as a businessowner. I often repeat Joshua 1:9 – ‘Be strong and courageous. Don’t be discouraged. e Lord your God is with you wherever you go.’ You can only do so much on your own. I put my faith in God and surround myself with those who have the same vision, work ethic, and positive energy. All of this will help you grow to the next level—because there is no top of the mountain.” w

"I truly believe our product can make a difference in people’s lives. I see it over and over again. That’s why it’s so satisfying … and why I never get bored with what I do.”

Mountain of Paper Your Kids Bring Home ta ling the

5 TIPS TO GET YOU STARTED

AS WE SETTLE BACK INTO THE school year, we are inevitably confronted by something lurking from our past. PAPER!!! Yes, the never-ending paper! Truly, in a paperless world, the amount of paper a school-aged child accumulates over the years may actually outweigh said child!

Remember when the last school year ended, and your kids came home with 35 pounds of papers? Remember how you said, “I’ll get to it this summer.” Well, summer has come and gone, my friend. We are back in full school swing. And that paper is still there. Waiting. Waiting to be taken care of as more projects, essays, and worksheets pile up during the new school year.

e time has come for it to be addressed. But how? e molehill from the rst few weeks of this school year does indeed become a mountain. Where do you even begin to tackle a mountain of school paperwork that, at the very least, may require some tactical gear to manage? e solution? Start. Set a small goal as your rst step. Sort for ve minutes. Go through paper while watching your favorite show … just start. With that said, here are some ways for you to “just start” –

Sasha Campbell is the founder and owner of Organized Sunshine, LLC, in Huntersville. To consult and connect with Sasha, you can call 704.661.8129 or reach her via email at sashacampbell44@ gmail.com.

1 PURGE. When your child brings home paperwork, go through it immediately!

2 PLACE. Once the paper has made it through the rst round of purging, have a designated basket, folder, or area where you can store your child’s precious drawings of the family or your struggling student’s rst A on an algebra test.

3 DECIDE. When the school year is over, sit down and go through the papers. It’s decision time. Do you really need 54 pages showing that your child understands their multiplication tables? A handful of papers showing the same type of work is more than enough.

4 FILE. ere are many options out there to store your kids’ schoolwork from ling cabinets that can double as a nightstand to plastic ling bins that are easily moved and stored. Label it in a way that works for you (name, age, year, grade, etc). e key is to label and organize those school memories now to allow you to access and reminisce later.

5 ENJOY. Once you put in the work on the front end, paper management during the schoolage years CAN be manageable. Having a system in place will make each step and decision easier. ese are treasured memories and deserve to be treated as such. w

LKNE XPERT

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 FINDING HER CALLING: I was fortunate enough to be a stay-at-home mom for 20 years with my three children: Bryson (23), Emma (21), and Jeremy (18). Once I was ready to work again, I realized I needed a new career. That’s when I decided it was time to pursue real estate. I love helping people and I consider myself an extrovert — I must socialize! My love for homes and helping people landed me my dream job. As a child growing up my mom would say, “Ashley, you can’t talk to everyone.” But I never listened. I talk to anyone, anywhere. I never meet a stranger.

on EMBRACING FRIENDS, FAMILY, AND FARAWAY PLACES: I love meeting new people and socializing at the events held in downtown Mooresville. I also love spending time with my friends and family at the beach and at the lake. With a love for travel, I’ve visited 22 states, and I’ve made three mission trips to Honduras. Those trips have been the most memorable to me — just to see God working in the lives of the people that have so little but love so hard … it’s humbling for sure.

Ashley Towns is a Realtor/Broker with Lake Norman Realty located at 522 River Highway in Mooresville. She can be reached at 704.880.9858 or online at www.LakeNormanRealty.com. ley

on TENACITY AND PERSEVERANCE: Personally, I am the proudest of myself for never giving up —  on me, as a single mom, and my children, for all they have accomplished in their young lives. Professionally, I have that same strong will and desire to succeed. I am my business, and it is what I make it. No one else can get me there besides myself.

on EMBRACING HER INNER KID: People would probably be very surprised to know I grew up as tomboy! I still enjoy anything outdoors — hunting, fishing, visiting a shooting range, camping, hiking, etc. I’ve even been skydiving! While I enjoy dressing up and looking professional, I don’t mind a little dirt.

on AIMING HIGH AND SETTING GOALS: My fight song is “Rise Up” by Andra Day. When I hear it, it gives me the strength to be brave, stand taller, and always move forward. Each day I challenge myself to put in the effort to achieve my goals for work … and to get at least two of my kids to return my text messages. w

LAKE NORMAN REALTY

The of a College Degree

EARLIER THIS SUMMER, President Biden decided to eliminate 10k worth of student loan debt by executive order. For those eligible for Pell Grant (income-based government grant) the amount rose to 20k to be eliminated. There are pros and cons on each side of the argument of student loans and who should actually pay. I wish it were as simple as one repaying the debt that they agreed to take on and now owe, but that is an oversimplification of what really lies beneath the murky depths of the student loan ocean.

Ok, I know what you’re thinking—only borrow what you can a ord to repay, right? With the interest compounding daily and jobs for new graduates being less pay than the degree cost, exactly how does that happen for a fresh-faced 22-year-old college graduate? Simply put, it doesn’t.

LKNE XPERT

Shawn Hall is a former U.S. Department of Education Program specialist that resides in Mooresville. She is a scholarship and college admissions coach, the author of “Prepare Now, Don’t Pay Later,” and is the mother of a high school senior, college sophomore, college graduate, and elementary student. For more information, visit allroadseducation.com.

According to Bankrate, all federal student loans charge simple interest which basically means you pay the interest that has accrued on your loan and no more. So easy-peasy right? Nope! ere are times that even with a federal student loan, you pay interest ON the interest that has accrued, and those times are commonly known as deferment periods. During deferment periods, you are still accruing interest on the total amount you owe even if the payments you are required to make have been temporarily halted. is is the heart of why the system is broken and the deck continues to remain stacked against borrowers. You can get a deferment for up to three years if you have already graduated from college and, for those students who are currently in college, the payments aren’t automatically deferred for as long as they are in school. e clock for the interest, unless it’s a subsidized loan or was a now ended Perkins loan, continues to tick on that interest which balloons the initial balance borrowed.

Now that I’ve broken down the student loan game for you, I hope there’s been a spark for you to want to go after scholarships with even more vigor and zeal. It’s money that you don’t have to repay and that allows parents to realize their own personal goals such as saving for retirement, investing in rental properties, or perhaps just ensuring that you can keep living comfortably without the added burden of student loans.

With 68 percent of all jobs in 2022 requiring some level of higher education, I believe college is still worth the time and e ort. You get to decide the real cost of that degree based on your actions. Remember, behavior has receipts. w

FAMILY LKNW HALL PASS: YOUR INSIDE GUIDE TO EDUCATION WITH SHAWN A. HALL

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ALL IN THE FAMILY

My family moved to Huntersville when I was really young, so this is home for me … although I currently live in Uptown Charlotte. I went to St. Mark Catholic School, Charlotte Catholic High School, and Elon University. My areas of study were nance and economics, and I planned to go into insurance in some capacity since most of my family worked in that eld. I completed all certi cations in all types of insurance and knew I wanted to go into commercial lines of insurance. My family’s agency seemed the best option for me.

SPOILER ALERT:

Men and women are different. Ok, so maybe that fact didn’t really surprise you. After all, it’s been 28 years since John Gray popularized the idea that men are from Mars and women are from Venus. And as much as we love sharing women’s stories, we decided it was time to lend the Martians of LKN our ear, too. This month we share the perspectives of Jackson Principi of Fogle Insurance Group.

STAYING BALANCED

Working out and eating healthy keeps me going every single day — good or bad. Working towards my business goals helps to keep me motivated — going the extra mile to help Fogle Insurance Group become the most successful it can be. I’ve realized that time management is necessary for being successful in outside sales and business, but I also know how important it is to do things I love outside of work such as hiking, reading, listening to podcasts, playing golf, and doing yoga. One of my favorite ways to unwind is catching a Charlotte FC match or a Panthers game.

BLESSED AND GRATEFUL

WITH GOD BY MY SIDE

Joshua 1:9 — “Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” I feel that anything is possible with God by your side. Failing is a part of living and being human. e only way to lose in life is by giving up. I try not to let fear stand in my way. I would fail 1000 times over if there was any chance at being successful.

I watched my mom and dad work very hard my entire life. My brother and I were very comfortable, and it made me want that kind of nurtured life for my own family one day. Also, I am so lucky to have friends that I have bonded with over the years. ose are lasting friendships and they’ve meant so much to me. w

Jackson Principi is a commercial lines agent with Fogle Insurance Group in Huntersville. Contact Jackson at 704.875.3060 or via email at jackson@foglegroup.com.

JACKSON PRINCIPI, FOGLE INSURANCE GROUP

EMBRACE. ACCEPT.

IF THESE PAST FEW YEARS OF uncertainty taught us anything, it’s to seize the moment, be grateful, and do what you love. Just ask Robin Mermans.

As founder and principal attorney at Road to Resolution Divorce Mediation & Collaborative Family Law, this Charlotte-based mama of ve not only understands the path to amicable splits, but she is a pro at cultivating and running a blended family.

“My divorce, while incredibly di cult and painful, was a blessing in disguise,” Robin shares. “It gave me the chance to learn my life’s purpose and led me to Andy and my stepsons … between us we have ve children: Ellie (23), Kase (22), Buchanan (20), Jake (20), and Walker (18).”

Embracing a new direction in her personal life is what led Robin to her passion: helping couples nd a peaceful way to end their unions. “Like many before me,” she says, “I thought my rst marriage would last forever. However, once we decided that divorce was the only healthy way forward for us, we did what most people do and hired attorneys.”

Unfortunately, as is the case for many, the divorce was expensive and combative. Robin felt controlled by the process instead of empowered. Six months and thousands of dollars later, they still had nothing to show for all the time and money invested … not to mention the emotional toll.

is experience motivated her and her now former husband to draft the basic terms of their separation and give those terms to the attorney to re ne and put in a legally binding document. “Learning there are alternate options to the traditional divorce process inspired me to open ROAD to RESOLUTION Divorce Mediation in 2011 as a non-attorney mediator,” Robin explains. “While mediation is a wonderful process for many, it may not be for every situation, so I enrolled in law school to study family law. After passing both the North Carolina and South Carolina bar exams, I added Collaborative Family Law, Collaborative Divorce, and other alternative dispute resolution processes. I love o ering a place where cooperation and collaboration are encouraged, cultivated, and the best interest of the family remains the focus.”

No stranger to facing life’s challenges head on, 2019 would test Robin once again when her son was in a serious skateboarding accident, fracturing his skull and su ering a severe TBI (traumatic brain injury); the doctors were uncertain of his fate for the rst few days. is tragedy, as you can imagine, brought the entire family to their knees.

“Fortunately,” Robin recalls, “my son is a ghter and walked out of the hospital seven days later.” We assume we will outlive our children and that there is always a tomorrow. is tragedy reminded me not to take time, life, or loved ones for granted. Life is transient and impermanent, and tomorrow is never guaranteed … I often look to this quote by Golda Meir for inspiration: “Trust yourself. Create the kind of self that you will be happy to live with all your life. Make the most of yourself by fanning the tiny, inner sparks of possibility into ames of achievement.”

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ROBIN ROAD thrive

"I LOVE OFFERING A PLACE WHERE COOPERATION AND COLLABORATION ARE ENCOURAGED, CULTIVATED, AND THE BEST INTEREST OF THE FAMILY REMAINS THE FOCUS.”

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MICHELLE MOVED TO THE LAKE NORMAN AREA over ve years ago when her husband retired from over 20 years in the Air Force. Since her relocation to the area she enjoyed helping families nd their dream home in the area and has become one of Lake Norman's top 100 Agents in 2020 and 2021.

In 2022 Michelle launched a boutique agency Opulence Group Real Estate. Opulence Group Real Estate welcomed its fth agent to the team and is growing strong. All the agents share Michelle's vision for great customer service and enjoy working as a team to help everyone we represent have the best experience through the complicated and stressful experience of real estate. Michelle uses a combination of her relocation experience

Michelle Peck Broker/Owner/CMRS Opulence Group Real Estate

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both personal and professional along with her extensive knowledge of the military VA real estate process; her great listening skills and her knowledge of the market to navigate them through their real estate transactions. She uses these skills to mentor and work with the other agents who work with her.

People who have worked with Michelle appreciate her strong work ethic, integrity, and commitment. Working as an Operation Manager in the restaurant industry prepared Michelle to use her drive, work ethic, sales driven attitude along with her love to better people’s lives in the real estate industry.

In Michelle’s spare time she enjoys boating on Lake Norman, having BBQs with neighbors, traveling and most of all spending time with the people important in her life. Michelle also has a passion for sharing the American Dream with exchange students from around the world. She hosted and coordinated their stay in America with other host homes. She is eager to put her passion for people and real estate to work for you.

She is eager to put her passion for people and real estate to work for you.

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

WORDS matter WHAT MAKES SMILE

Yesterday is gone, tomorrow has not yet come. We have only today, let us begin. WHAT

“I am an 18-year THRIVER, I call myself, not a survivor, because I feel like I am thriving in my life even better than I ever have, and I want to encourage other women who are going through this journey that here I am."

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.

MIND, BODY, & SPIRIT!healing at home ...

WHEN WE GET SICK AND NEED HELP , our friends and family will usually pitch in and lend a hand. Most of the time, if you have a support system nearby and the convalescence is not too long, this supportive network is all that is needed. But what about when we need help for weeks or months even? How do we keep our mental, physical, and spiritual health intact?

Here are a few suggestions for healing at home:

Cooking isn’t always compatible with recovery, so check out meal prep delivery services such as www.daily-harvest.com where you can choose from nutritious smoothies, soups, flatbreads, and a host of other healthy, organic food and meal options. Their chef-crafted food is delicious, easy to prep, and built on sustainably sourced fruits and vegetables.

Try meal replacement options such as nutritional shakes and snack/ protein bars that are loaded with essential vitamins and minerals. Choose foods and snacks that are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which have a host of antiinflammatory properties.

Take a vacation from yourself. It may sound funny but if you haven’t done it, engaging in regular mindfulness practices are extremely beneficial

for mind, body, and spirit. Many hospitals such as Mt. Sinai, Cleveland Clinic, and Mayo Clinic endorse meditation as a pre-surgery practice to promote relaxation, healing, and positive outcomes.

Try guided imagery. A quick online search will offer a variety of guided imagery resources; guided imagery uses spoken words to engage patients in active imagination and sensory exercises designed to produce a relaxed state. It can be delivered via audio recordings or individualized with a practitioner. Guided imagery has been shown to improve surgical outcomes and recovery; it increases relaxation; alleviates anxiety and pain associated with cancer and cancer treatment-related symptoms; aids in recuperative sleep; and is also beneficial in treating addiction. w

Important daily routines for healthy mind, body, and spirit during recovery:

As much as you are able …

. Keep your bedroom and other personal spaces tidy.

. Maintain daily hygiene such as washing your face and brushing your teeth.

. Eat a healthy breakfast.

. Get dressed.

. Hydrate/drink water.

. Read.

. Listen to music.

. Spend time in nature.

. Do an act of kindness for someone even if it’s just writing a letter.

. Spend some time doing your favorite pastime/ hobby.

. Exercise.

. Practice meditation.

BETTER ME BETTER YOU BETTER WORLD BY Leslie Ogle

VALUES MATTER

LPCA’s K-12 University Model offers the best of both worlds: 229 Midway Lake Rd., Mooresville admissions@libertyprepnc.com 704-660-3933

Liberty Prep Christian Academy is now planning for 2023-2024!

It’s not too early to start making plans for the fall of 2023, especially for incoming kindergarten students. We look forward to seeing you at our fall open house November 3rd at 6:30 pm. Grades K-11 are welcome to attend. Applications will also open on November 3rd.

For more information, please visit our website at www.libertyprepnc.com.

An built on relationships