Volume 2, Issue 1 January - March 2011 COMPLIMENTARY
Mot hers & Daughters Katie Escobar & Lisa Swenson
Community Events Please call ahead to confirm events. January Royal Social January 6 For details and to RSVP, call 662-1641 Women’s Challenge January 13 – 16 For more information call 701-345-8554 Martin Luther King, Jr. Day January 17 Heart of America Concert Series in Rugby The Five of Us January 23 Devils Lake Volunteer Fire Department Ice Fishing Tournament January 29 For details contact dlcfd@gondtc.com February Ground Hog Day February 2 Royal Social February 3 For details and to RSVP, call 662-1641 Sully’s Hill Winter Festival February 5
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St. Patrick’s Day March 17 Community events are free to promote in the LRW calendar. Call (701)261-2692 or e-mail information to lakeregionwoman@live.com.
Table of Contents 7 8 12 14
Faster internet speeds so you have more time for the important things in life.
Contributors Safe Travels By Autumn Graber
Short and Sweet: Child Photo Gallery
Mama A Tribute to Moms By Grace Kurtz
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Hitched: Wedding Photo Gallery
Computer Related Pain
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By Mary Lundy, PT
Motivated Brandi Nelson By Erin Wood
Mom’s Easy Fudge Mothers and Daughters
Loan Products Checking Savings Certificate of Desposit Money Wires Munich (701) 682-5331
Osnabrock (701) 496-3482
Devils Lake (701) 665-2020
The Swenson Women By Autumn Graber
First State Bank of Munich
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Grace Kurtz, (701) 739-3831 www.liasophia.com/gracekurtz gracekurtz@gondtc.com
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Publisher – Graber Media, LLC Editor – Autumn Graber Account Manager – Kelly Graber, (701) 740-3848 Copy Editor – MariLou Harveland Design/Layout – Autumn Graber Photography – Autumn Graber (unless otherwise noted) Mail correspondence to: Lake Region Woman Magazine P.O. Box 705 Devils Lake, ND 58301 lakeregionwoman@live.com www.lakeregionwoman.com www.facebook.com/lakeregionwoman www.twitter.com/lakeregionwoman Printed in the U.S.A. © 2010 Graber Media, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced without written permission from the publisher. Lake Region Woman Magazine assumes no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs. Lake Region Woman Magazine does not necessarily endorse or agree with content of articles or advertising presented. Distributors: Bob’s Supervalu in Cando Devils Lake Just For Kix Dance Studio Grace Kurtz, lia sophia Jill Edinger, Private Quarters Leevers County Market in Devils Lake Leevers County Market in Rugby Miller’s Fresh Foods in New Rockford Mr. & Mrs. J’s in Devils Lake Old Main in Devils Lake Spirit Lake Casino Supervalu in Carrington The Liquid Bean in Devils Lake Wally’s Supermarket in Devils Lake Warehouse Foods in Langdon Wimer’s Grocery in Lakota Go green and share this magazine with a friend.
This magazine is printed on an environmentally certified paper that contains a 10% post-consumer waste. FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) is an international, nonprofit association that promotes well-managed forests by ensuring forestry practices that are environmentally responsible, socially equitable, and economically viable.
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Note from the Editor
There is something different about my mom’s house. The second I walk through the front door my stress and anxiety disappears—for the most part. On any given day, before I even reach the front door, I can smell berry candles, supper cooking, or warm Fin bread baking. I sit on her couch and it’s soft—softer than mine. No matter how I wash my blankets they never feel as good as hers. My children even behave better here. I always wonder how she does it—how she provides such a warm, clean, and good-smelling environment. As I sit here at Mom’s, the candles are burning and there are a few lamps on. The lighting is perfect for rejuvenating a tired soul. My sister and I come to our mom’s home to visit. We have our visionary sessions in her living room. This is where we vent, laugh, cry, and bond. There is something special about a relationship between a mother and her daughter. Sometimes, you don’t even need to say a word—you just know. Over the years, I’ve had the opportunity to put my thoughts into perspective. Things that once mattered really don’t any more. What matters is being happy—doing what makes you happy. Materials don’t make us who we are. The soft blankets and good smells in my mom’s home aren’t really what make me happy—just being there does. One of Lake Region Woman’s contributors, Grace Kurtz, who lost her mom twenty-one years ago, brought this following quote to my attention. “The most beautiful people we have known are those who have known defeat, known suffering, known struggle, known loss, and have found their way out of the depths. These persons have an appreciation, a sensitivity, and an understanding of life that fills them with compassion, gentleness, and a deep loving concern. Beautiful people do not just happen.” -Elisabeth Kubler-Ross I can bet that your mom has known defeat, suffering, struggle, loss, and has found her way out of the depths. The next time you see your mom, thank her for being the best mom she could be. Elisabeth Kubler-Ross’ quote from above is featured on the back cover. I encourage you to rip it out and hang it where you can see it. It will be a reminder that you are a beautiful person. Autumn Graber
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Grace Kurtz Grace left her childhood home for college in 1990, about eight months after the loss of her mother, Barbara. Her mother was her biggest fan, supporting Grace in various activities such as cheerleading, dance, community theater, pageantry, etc. Grace traveled nearly 600 miles from Boston, MA to Mercyhurst College in Pennsylvania. She earned her B.A. in Business Marketing with a minor in Writing. After living in PA for 10 years, she moved back to her home state of Massachusetts. She earned an M.Ed from Suffolk University. Her professional experience includes over 10 years in higher education. She spent a brief time with CountryBank USA where she became certified in insurance sales; but, left that role to become a stay-at-home mother of her two sons: Landon and Gannon. In 2009 Grace joined the team of trainers at TrainND, facilitating a number of professional development trainings, such as: Coaching in the Workplace, Generations in the Workplace, Resolving Conflict, Team Building and What’s My Communication Style, for which she received excellent comments. Her professional experience, coupled with her natural enthusiasm proves to be an excellent combination for a trainer. Grace spends much of her time with her husband and children and with fostering her at-home, direct sale business with lia sophia. Lia sophia is the largest direct sale jewelry company in the U.S. and Grace is a Unit Manager in Devils Lake.
Mary Lundy,PT
Erin Wood
With our focus on moms in this issue, I just wanted to say how much my entire family means to me. I have a unique family in that my mom and dad are my great aunt and uncle. Both my parents died when I was young, but I consider myself one of the luckiest people around because I have had two sets of parents who love me as only a parent can. I learned at an early age that sadness is just another part of life, and not necessarily a bad part. Though my aunt and uncle did not have biological children, they adopted my sister and me with open hearts. I have immense faith that no matter how hard things get, it is just another part of life and we have to pray for strength to make it through. Thank you, family, for loving me! Mary’s professional career started at Mayville State, where she attained a BS in Biology and Physical Education—one inorganic class away from a minor in chemistry—her emphasis is in Exercise Physiology. She worked as a trainer with Sports Acceleration, taught many different aerobic and weight training classes, and did aide work at a physical therapy department. During this time, Mary returned to school, attained a Masters in Physical Therapy, and found her professional passion. She has been working as a physical therapist in the Lake Region since 2000 and has been owner and operator of her own physical therapy clinic and Pilates studio since 2005. Mary can be reached at progressivephysicaltherapy@hotmail. com or call 701-662-5874.
Erin began writing during her high school years in Hankinson, ND, which led to studying communication at UND. She received an internship at the Grand Forks Herald in 1995 that led to a reporting job for the paper and AGWEEK magazine. She earned a degree in journalism from UND in 1996. Erin moved to the Lake Region when she married her husband, Steve, who farms east of Devils Lake with his family. She switched from reporting to public relations, working at the Spirit Lake Casino for two years before becoming marketing and communications director at Lake Region State College in 2000. She and Steve are the proud parents of three active youngsters aged 2-10. Between work and the children’s schedules, finding free family time can be tough, but they squeeze it in wherever possible. “Homework and many family discussions occur in the kitchen while preparing a meal. As a young girl, quality time with mom meant being in the kitchen. The kitchen atmosphere is a really positive part of family memories. I remember sneaking into Mom’s cookbooks when she was busy and writing notes to her that said ‘I love you.’” She always comments how much she loves looking at those old cookbooks and has marked many of my cookbooks with similar comments. My mom was always canning, cooking, or baking something and I work at continuing that with my children. I love the Food Network and other cooking channels and publications. I don’t do everything homemade like my mom did, but I try. Winter
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“Over 100,000 American teenagers and young adults travel to resort areas throughout Mexico over Spring Break each year. While the vast majority enjoys their vacation without incident, several may die, hundreds will be arrested, and still more will make mistakes that could affect them for the rest of their lives. Using some common sense will help travelers avoid these unpleasant and dangerous situations.” Source: U.S. State Department
s l e v a r Safe T By Autumn Graber
The new year has begun and our lives have come full circle. The hectic holiday season has ceased, and we can now look forward to preparing our taxes, planning for weddings, and remodeling our homes for graduation parties. It’s hard to believe, but summer is right around the corner. With all these plans come thoughts of travel. Moms and dads are discussing whether their budgets can handle family trips, and high school seniors
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are eagerly anticipating vacations to celebrate the end of their high school career. Even as adults we tend to forget about the question of travel safety. Most of us believe that we can handle any situation placed before us. However, when faced with unforeseen events, it’s imperative that we have the wherewithal to make the right decisions.
This spring, many parents will cut the apron strings, allowing their children to enter adulthood. We must stand back and watch as our children take their first steps, just like when they first learned how to walk. As parents, we know they will fall a few times in the process. But, how can we make sure they are educated in safety? Whether they travel to Europe or just down the street, our children need to make the right decisions to avoid getting into situations in which they can no longer defend themselves or lose their own free will. Beth Holloway is a parent that realized too late the importance of educating one’s children on travel safety. Beth is the mother of Natalee Holloway, a high school graduate who went missing on her senior trip to Aruba. She shared the heartbreaking story of her daughter’s abduction at a women’s leadership luncheon that I attended in October.
Before You Travel 1. Learn about the country you are visiting, including its infrastructure and laws. 2. Obtain phone numbers for the closest U.S. Embassy, local emergency assistance and public safety offices. 3. Prepare for any health risks and possible need for medical treatment. Visit your doctor or healthcare professional. Make copies of your health records and a list of prescription drugs you are taking. Bring a supply of all medicines with you. 4. Discuss with your wireless provider international usage and carry a cell phone with you at all times. 5. Make copies of legal documents and pack separately. 6. Know your rights.
While You’re Traveling 1. Use extra caution when you are in crowded tourist sites, elevators, subways, train stations and festivals and avoid marginal or less traveled areas of the country. 2. There is strength in numbers, so never travel alone—always use the buddy system. 3. Constantly be aware of your surroundings—never let your guard down or have a false sense of security. 4. Never allow a friend to leave alone or leave with someone you or they do not know. 5. Do not purchase drugs—drugs are illegal in every country and laws are strictly enforced. 6. Be respectful of the country you are visiting and its citizens.
Holloway spoke with a soft, demur southern accent while recounting her tragedy. While listening to her, my emotions began with sadness, grew to anger, and ended with heart-wrenching sorrow for a fellow mother who endured every parent’s nightmare. Beth got that call that all parents fear from the moment their children are born. Holloway said, “My cell phone rang from a number I didn’t recognize. In an instant, out of the blue, my life was changed forever.” Beth Holloway learned what can happen to an American when traveling internationally. Some of these lessons would surprise the unseasoned traveler. Of the many lessons gleaned from Beth’s talk, one that sticks out in my mind is that if you get into trouble while outside the United States’ safe borders, you can’t be certain that the authorities in the country you are in will care about
your crisis. Customs and practices in other countries may not be what we consider “normal” here in the U.S. Beth Holloway describes it best in her book “Loving Natalee,” which was released in 2007: “When we find ourselves in a crisis in a country that promotes itself as a tourist haven for Americans, we naively expect to get the same kind of justice that we would get at home. But that’s idealistic. When Americans leave the United States, we should be prepared to leave behind all those expectations of being treated with the same fairness and dignity we are accustomed to and take for granted. It’s one thing to be lost in the United States. It’s another whole disaster to be lost in another country. You must adhere to the government, police, laws, and customs of the country you’re visiting. And they’re just not the same as ours.” Holloway travels the country
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Holloway now speaks to groups on a regular basis about the Safe Travels program, which she highlights in her book. Her goal is to honor Natalee by educating America’s youth about their safety. Holloway said, “My vision to create a one-stop-shop website where travelers can investigate their destinations to prepare for safe trips is coming to life. Visitors will pull up their destination and gather and print important data to take with them. This website is in its infancy, and my prayer is that the Safe Travels university study will continue to be funded so that the information available on the website for travelers can continue to expand.” Holloway is constantly asked by reporters how she keeps going. Her an-
swer is always hope. Holloway said, “Hope is that inexplicable empowerment that enables us to move successfully from challenge to resolution with courage. When I say empowerment I literally mean using one’s own power to make choices. Hope is the guarantee that there is light at the end of whatever tunnel we are trying to find our way through. I found it first in God. I found it in every anonymous tip that she had been seen alive. I found it in every person that had made a decision to do something on our behalf. The best way I can describe it is that hope came in surges of energy that washed across my soul. The same way the ocean tide comes to shore and smoothes the sand and goes away. But it always came back.” [LRW]
www.crimemuseum.org www.mayday360.com www.safetravelsfoundation.com This website was still under construction during the printing of this issue of Lake Region Woman Magazine.
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Photo courtesy Natale
For more information about Beth Holloway, Natalee Holloway, or the Safe Travels program, you can visit the following websites.
e Holloway Resource
Center
speaking to high school and college students about the Safe Travels university study. Holloway says, “You are responsible for your own personal safety now. Your parents aren’t going to be around anymore to watch over you.” Beth explains to them that once Natalee got into that car in Aruba she was at the mercy of her perpetrators and could no longer protect herself. “Your safety plan must come full circle. You must pay as much attention to how you plan to end your evenings as you spend deciding what you’re going to wear and who you’re going out with,” said Holloway. This advice not only applies to international travel but also going out on a Friday night with your friends.
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701-662-5874 Mary E. Lundy, PT
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Mama
A Tribute to Moms…
Jean with her daughter Jackie. Photo courtesy PLC Photography. Grace with her mom, sisters, and father during her first Holy Communion in 1979. Photo courtesy Grace Kurtz.
By Grace Kurtz “My mom is a never ending song in my heart of comfort, happiness, and being. I may sometimes forget the words but I always remember the tune.” ~Graycie Harmon My 3-year old son asks, “Mama, how’s your Mama?” I tell him, “She’s doing great.” It’s the start of a conversation we have often had at our house. My 5-year old asks, “She’s in Heaven, right? So, we can’t call her on the phone, can we?” My husband and I are astounded by their thoughtfulness. And, we tell them, “No, we can’t call her, but we can talk to her all the time!” My mother passed away 21 years ago. I learned to live with the indescribable sadness and loneliness that followed. Even in a family whose father remained and with 11 siblings, I felt alone. But, the experience taught me empathy, and it breaks my heart when I learn of other people’s heartache and loss. Jean Baird last saw her Mom at a family wedding. “She really enjoyed herself at the wedding,” Jean remembered. “A few days earlier, we had a really, really nice conversation on the phone. We talked about everything…we really enjoyed each other so much.” Jean’s mother, Ollie, died unexpectedly in 2004. Ollie (Olive Viola) was two weeks 14
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from her eightieth birthday. Jean sniffled and apologized as she reached for tissues. “She was my best friend…my best girlfriend. When I got married, we had a certain bond, and then after I had my first child it really strengthened—we would go for lunch, we’d just hang out, we watched TV, or played cards every night before bed.” I have known Jean for 10 years, but it was the first time we spoke about the loss of our mothers. I was a high school senior and Jean was an established woman—a wife and a mother—when she lost her Mom. Yet, we understand each other’s loss. We understand the awful lesson of learning to live without the most pivotal figure in our lives. We agreed that, though we may experience other love in our lives, nothing replaces the love a mother can give. Nothing. Catherine Anfinson lost her mother, Marlene Simnes to cancer in 2006. She remembered her Mom’s best qualities. “She loved life and had an outgoing personality. She took pride in her home and loved to cook! I have two brothers and four sisters and she always found time for us. She was busy in the community as well; it seemed like everyone knew her. We couldn’t go anywhere that she didn’t know someone! She had a kind heart, a very generous spirit and was known for her hospitality and a laugh that was contagious! I miss her laugh.”
Similarly, Jean explained that she missed her mother’s smile and her mother’s hugs. I miss my mother’s voice; I miss her smell. And, sadly, the memory I have of her slips away more each day. When it comes down to it, it’s the simplest things that leave the biggest marks on our hearts: a smile, a laugh, a hug, a voice, a smell. Catherine, a musician, explained, “I wrote a song for her one Mother’s Day when our boys were small. We were kinda short on funds. At the time, we ran our own business. Anyway, she loved the song. I sang this song at her funeral. I’m not sure how I made it through without crying.” Here’s an excerpt: You are my Mother-I love you dearly Just thought you should know-I love you so
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Now I am a Mother with chil dren of my own I hope I can follow the example you’ve shown I’d like to be a good friend to my little boys I’d like them to know a life full of joy And make them smile and know that life is worth while
Losing your mother as a child, an adolescent, teenager, or adult affects your experiences and relationships in life…it affects the woman you become. And, somehow it changes how we see other people’s loss. We understand it because we have experienced great loss and we feel it with them. If you’ve experienced deep loss in your life, I hope you’ve gained a deepening of love in your life for those that remain and for the memories you hold within. And, if you have the opportunity to be with your mother today, soak up the simplest things that are inherently her: her laugh, her smile, her smell, her voice. [LRW]
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Computer Related Pain By Mary Lundy, PT
Are You Sitting Correctly at Your Computer? Did you know that extended poor positioning at your computer can cause significant pain issues over time? Headaches, carpal tunnel syndrome, neck, shoulder, elbow, and lower back pain can all be related to poor positioning. In my practice, I have seen a rise in computer-related issues in the last 10 years. The rise has not only been to people who work with computers all day but with teens and people who spend time at the computer for social and recreation purposes. This is a two-part article. In this issue, I will instruct you how to correctly set up your computer workstation. In the next issue, I will explain how improper setup can affect you, and things you can do (besides proper setup) that will help prevent and/or decrease pain issues.
Desktop computer setup:
•Head Straight ahead, chin tucked. The screen should be directly in front so you are not turning your head. When typing from a document, use a document holder to keep your work at eye level. •Eyes The top of the monitor should be level with your eyes, except if you wear bifocals or trifocals, then the screen should be lowered to a height where you are not tipping your head to view the screen. •Upper Back Supported by the chair. Be sure to sit up straight and avoid twisting. •Shoulders Relaxed, with frequently-used items nearby to decrease how far you have to reach for them. •Elbows Bent near 90 degrees and relaxed at sides. •Wrists The keyboard and mouse should be at elbow height. Maintain a neutral wrist position by not bending up, down, or sideways and do not type with your wrist resting on the wrist rest. 18
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•Fingers Allow your fingers to float across keys while typing. While using the mouse, be sure to let fingers relax, do not hold fingers in the “ready to click” position. •Lower Back Supported by the lumbar support of the chair, lumbar cushion, or towel roll. Sit all the way back in the chair. •Hips/knees Bent around 90 degrees with legs uncrossed. There should be two finger widths between the back of your knees and the front of the chair. •Feet Flat on the floor or supported on a footrest.
Laptop setup:
The positions that people put themselves in while using a laptop as it was meant to be used—in the lap—are hard on the body. My best advice for setup is to apply the above rules frequently. One best practice is to purchase an external keyboard and mouse, which will enable you to set up the entire computer as described above. [LRW]
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Brandi Nelson Motivated By Erin Wood
When asked what woman inspires her, Brandi Nelson doesn’t hesitate in giving her answer. “I’d have to say my mom. She’s always been supportive of me. It doesn’t matter what I do, she’s been proud of me.” Being proud of Brandi is an easy thing to do. This determined young professional is like many Lake Region women; she works full-time, is a mom full-time, and is always looking at selfimprovement. When asked to describe Brandi in one word, many colleagues say “motivated.” Brandi works full-time at Lake Region State College as the Instructional Services Program Coordinator—a position she’s held since October 2008. “As the Instructional Program Coordinator, I assist the Vice President of Instructional Services to ensure our mission is always in sight.” The mission of the Instructional Services program encompasses leadership, management, support, and informational services, which includes computer services, continuing education, workforce training, Interactive Video Network, academic skills center, adult basic education, library, and media services. It’s a job she thoroughly enjoys because the job has a solid mix of routine tasks and new opportunities. The Instructional Services area also provides leadership and support for course development and delivery. This includes providing assistance to faculty in their effort to deliver instruction. Instructional Services supports faculty, staff, and students by procuring outside resources and recognition, in addition to providing professional development for faculty and staff. Community and inter-institutional courses are offered. And, the staff maintains institutional computer networks and systems, in addition to managing institutional records and reporting requirements. “Working in higher education, watching and assisting students in their educational endeavors is very rewarding,” she said. “There are so many things to do in higher education.” Her other career as caregiver, nurturer, and mother also keeps her busy. Brandi and her husband, Chad, are proud parents to son Weston. In fact, one little mention of Weston’s name is all it takes to light up Brandi’s face. Pictures of him adorn her office and she’s lucky to have him nearby at the childcare facility located at the college. She and Weston are able to schedule lunch dates, which both enjoy. Brandi said, “Weston is the driving force behind my pursuit of an advanced degree. I want to set an example for him that in order to succeed in life, you have to set goals and work hard to achieve them. It’s not always going to be easy. There are sacrifices you have to make and times when homework takes precedence over other pursuits, but a quality education will provide opportunities that would not otherwise be available.” And, like many working moms, Brandi has decided to go back to college to earn an advanced degree. Brandi’s motivation for self-improvement and career progression has helped shape the decision for advancing her education. “When I graduated with my bachelor’s degree, I thought I was done. But the more I thought about it, I wanted that master’s degree. It’s mainly for personal reasons, but it will give me an advantage if I want to move ahead in my career,” she said. 20
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She looked for a degree that would fit into a lot of different job areas, and an MBA seemed to be the answer. Within a week of seriously thinking about returning for an advanced degree, she started the process. Motivated. She took the GMAT in March 2009, was accepted in April, made the changes and planned to fit college into her schedule, and started classes at UND in Fall 2009. “It was really quick.” Quick—yet another descriptor that adequately portrays Brandi. Have we mentioned her running? “I have always had the broader points of my life planned: graduate college, get married, find a job that offered long-term possibilities, and start a family,” said Brandi. “I have followed my plan exactly: I graduated college in 2005, got married January 21, 2006, and started my job at LRSC January 23, 2006. By the end of 2006, I was ready for the next step. With 22
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the desire to begin a family came the knowledge that to have a healthy pregnancy, I needed to take care of myself physically. I joined Mercy Therapy and Fitness, at that time known as Select Therapy and Fitness, in October, 2006 and within a month I was hooked. I ran my first marathon relay in Fargo in 2007 and since then have participated in approximately twenty marathon relays, 10K, and 5K runs. In addition to running, I teach group fitness classes at Mercy Therapy and participate in an exercise program called Get Fit. I exercise every day because I love it; the way I feel, the way I look, the sense of calm, the release of stress. I have learned to put aside the guilt of taking that one hour a day to do what I love because in the end it makes me who I am.” Even with all of the commitments on her plate, like many other Lake Region women, Brandi is also dedicated to the area she calls home, where family roots run deep. She’s involved in the newly-
activated Young Professionals Network here in the Lake Region, is a board member for the Lake Region Community Fund, and helps lead fundraising efforts for the college’s Relay for Life Team – including starting the first annual Run for Your Life walk/run this past summer. Professional dynamo, proud parent, stellar student, dedicated runner – just how does she do it? Scheduling. “I dedicate and schedule the time. It’s all built into my schedule: work, Weston time, workouts, friend and family time, Weston time, Weston to bed, and then homework. Lake Region State College Instructional Designer Tammy Meyer echoes the importance of scheduling for adults looking at going back to college. “Also, don’t forget to schedule due dates, synchronous meetings, and study breaks as well,” said Tammy. “Take time to celebrate the small successes along the way, too. That can be so motivating.”
Higher Education opportunities here at home Brandi is fortunate that she doesn’t have to go far to study for her Master’s in Business Administration. “The cost and time of traveling would have added up quickly,” she said. Through technology, she is able to take her classes from the University of North Dakota via web camera. “Location was a huge factor when looking at going back to school. You can’t put your family on hold for two years. I didn’t want my son to know that I was too busy with school. I do my homework at night when he is asleep and try to avoid weekends.” So when her class meets, she connects via web cam. Students are located in the classroom at UND and numerous others join in like Brandi does. “It’s not an online course. I have to be logged on to my computer and have the camera hooked up, but I interact with the other students just as if I was in the room with them.” Group projects are part of the classwork, so it is not uncommon for Brandi to be working with students from the core classroom or other webcam colleagues. The class is comprised of students from North Dakota, those from out of state, and students of varying ages. “We work together online to complete projects,” she said. “The convenience is great. Wherever you have Internet you can access your course.” Instructors also enhance the courses when they engage students taking the course at a distance, “making sure to involve you in the class,” Brandi said. Meyer also emphasizes the importance of being engaged in class participation, regardless of how the class is held. “Engagement in assigned activities gives students the opportunity to take basic learning to the application level. This participation also gives peers the opportunity to learn from each other, which often times adds to the dynamics of the course.
Earn a Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration or Elementary Education on Lake Region State College’s campus. Classes are conveniently offered in the evenings and online.
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As with anything worth doing, effort should be emphasized. There is nothing more exhilarating than seeing success,” Meyer said. And online and distance students shouldn’t be afraid to ask questions and seek clarification. Studying from a distance is not new to Brandi. It was how she earned her bachelor’s degree right here in Devils Lake. When she graduated from Devils Lake High School in 2000, she looked at starting her college career in Devils Lake at Lake Region State College. “I knew that I was going to be paying for college out of my own pocket and I knew the quality at LRSC was the same or better than any other college or university.” After graduating from LRSC in 2002, Brandi contemplated moving away to go into accounting. A friend told her about the bachelor’s degree in Business Administration being offered in Devils Lake from Mayville State University. Before she knew it, she was registering for the Mayville State University program in Devils Lake. She graduated from Mayville
the summer of 2005. Lake Region State College has been working with Mayville State University since 2001 and the University of North Dakota to provide opportunities for working adults to earn bachelor and master degrees without leaving their community or uprooting family and moving. “That is a huge benefit to adult students,” Brandi said. “I can remember when I was in Kindergarten and we moved to Grand Forks so Mom could get her degree in education—it was a huge struggle for us financially and it was hard being away from family, but we made it work.” Her mom is helping her make it work today. Brandi said she has lots of family support from her mom, mother-in-law, father-in-law, and Chad. Things like housework become a number 100 priority. “They help support me in going back to school and make sure I have time for me. They pick up my slack. When it comes to finals week and I’m crunched or need some me time, they’ll take Weston.” “Surrounding yourself with
a positive enthusiastic support group is a key to success for anyone looking at college, especially working adults who are busy with family and outside activities,” says Donna Gutschmidt, LRSC associate professor of marketing/management. “They will cheer you on towards success. Everyone is busy. You have your job, your family, kids, numerous activities to attend, etc. The workload at home doesn’t stop when you become a student.” Those support groups are important, regardless of which format your courses are in. Another key to success is to register for one class. “A person can easily become totally overwhelmed when one thinks about completing an entire degree. You have to take baby steps. Start out with one class. Get your foot in the door and get started. Complete that one class and then you’ll realize ‘that wasn’t so bad’ and you’ll be ready for another class the next semester. Before you know it, the checklist of required classes that you need to complete your degree is smaller and smaller,” said Brandi. “You’ll be going across the gradua
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tion stage and thinking ‘WOW! That went fast!’.” It’s also important to find out the delivery mode of the classes. The offerings from Mayville State University are face-to-face, over the Interactive Video Network, and online. While online education has its benefits, it also tends to have its own challenges. Students who choose this route have to be self-motivated and able to manage their time well. “Your discipline and accountability are much higher when studying from a distance—online, web camera, even IVN. You need to focus more because you are not in a classroom physically in front of the teacher so more distractions arise,” Brandi said. To ensure success in the online “classroom,” Meyer suggests that students log in to their learning management system once they are able. Going through all tutorials and the syllabus will give the student a chance to become familiar with the course layout, the instructor’s expectations, policies, and procedures. “Taking time to get comfortable with necessary technology will also be a priority,” Meyer said. Brandi’s work with technology allows her to be comfortable with the course delivery options; she plans on completing her degree Fall 2011. After that, who knows what goals are next for the professional dynamo? When asked about future goals, Brandi was enigmatic, stating that she doesn’t want to say specifically because there are so many things to do—so many things that can pop up in the meantime. “Five, 10 years from now? Hopefully I’ll be the mother of more than one, with an MBA, working at Lake Region State College.” [LRW]
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Mom’s Easy Fudge! Only 3 Ingredients Needed 1 Can Condensed Milk 2 Cups Milk Chocolate Chips 1 Teaspoon Vanilla
Melt chocolate chips and condensed milk on low in a sauce pan. Add vanilla and stir. Pour over wax paper on a plate. Allow to set in refrigerator for a couple of hours while you get ready for date night. Cut and enjoy! Submit recipes to this section by e-mailing them to lakeregionwoman@live.com. 26
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Mothers & Daughters
P rtesy Loft Photo cou
hotograph
y
The Swenson ByWomen Autumn Graber
Photo courtes
y Loft Photog
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raphy
Not many daughters can say they get to work with their moms every day. But Lisa Swenson of Cando and her newly married daughter Katie (Swenson) Escobar have the opportunity to work together every day and feed off of each other’s creative outlet. Mom, Lisa, who could be mistaken for a daughter due to her youthful appearance, is the owner of Loft Photography in Cando. “We are wired exactly the same,” says daughter Katie. “A lot of times we know what the other is thinking or feeling before we have to say it. The working together part is so easy. Because if there is a problem, then you’re honest about it and you fix it and move on.” Lisa was 35-years-old when she took her first photography class from Lake Region State College. “Not realizing what it was going to grow into, it really sparked something in me,” said Lisa. Her instructor saw her talent and encouraged her to further her education in photography and look into classes at the Rocky Mountain School of Photography in Missoula MT. “I started out taking pictures of nature and old buildings—anything that wasn’t alive. My first assignment was travel photography and it was all people, it was all about photographing people. I was paralyzed. It was frightening to me.” One of the teaching assistants recognized Lisa’s fear and guided her through. Once Lisa realized how
much fun photography could be she broke through that fear. “That just lit another fire to the point where I rarely took a photo of something not living. As I broke into that, a [few] more people started asking me to [take pictures] for pay.” With this newfound talent for photography and the possibility of being paid for it, Lisa contemplated the idea of having a studio. “Having an actual location is important in North Dakota.” So with that, Lisa opened Loft Photography in Cando. At this time, Lisa and her husband Larry had two beautiful teenage daughters, Katie and Amy, but something was missing from the picture. In 2005, as a family, the Swensons decided to add to their family. Lisa and Larry were at a school event when Larry mentioned he had wished they would’ve had more kids. With a little bit of disbelief on Lisa’s face she said, “He was serious!” The family knew right away they would adopt internationally. Guatemala was one of the countries at that time that was more open to adoption. With the help of their minister, they found 8 year-old Victor first. Once the connection was made for Victor’s adoption, they got a call that Victor had a 3 month-old brother. There seemed to be no question that the Swenson family would adopt Victor’s brother Jonathan as well. With a beaming smile, Katie said, “We can’t imagine our lives without them.” Winter
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Adoption While international adoption may not be the answer for everyone, there are many other options. Locally, you can contact PATH North Dakota at 701-662-4913 or Catholic Charities North Dakota at 701-2354457 for more information on adoption services for children in foster care. You can also obtain more information from www.aasknd.org. Children in the AASK program are in need of a loving, permanent family to call their own. They are unique with special concerns – they may be older, of a minority race, in a sibling group to be placed together, or may have physical, emotional, or psychological needs.
Photo courtesy M
elissa Danielle Ph
otography
Pictured
than, Katie, Amy,
ctor, Esau, Jona below are Larry, Vi
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and Lisa.
Little did Katie know, their first family trip to Guatemala would be the foundation for her future. During their visit, they stayed with a host family in Anigua. The host family included a young man named Esau. After the adoption, Katie returned to Guatemala a few times to study Spanish and reconnected with Esau. However, thinking there was no possible way she could maintain such a long distance relationship, she returned to the states for college at Mayville State University. In the mean time, Lisa knew having a photography studio and juggling her children would be challenging. So she decided to have Katie nanny for her after college. Lisa said, “We were traveling to listen to Amy in a state music contest and I told Katie I should teach her about what I do at the studio because it’s not fair for her to get stuck at home all summer with the boys. So maybe we can take turns. I started teaching her [programs] on the computer and she just took off.” Until that point, Katie didn’t like computers and the only photography experience she had was when she took her mother’s community education photography class. Katie said, “It just made so much sense. I never even liked computers before. I was a little bit anti-technology. I would rather go read a book. Photoshop and Lightroom have changed that for sure.” With an ulterior motive in mind, Lisa got Katie a professional camera for her birthday. Lisa said, “She got a crash course. We went off and [photographed] a wedding.”
Kate loved the pressure to perform well during the photo shoot. “Doing something new is always hard but it was really fun,” said Katie. Even though Katie is a budding photographer, her love still lies in design. “I really think my mom’s primary interest is the photography and mine is the design,” said Katie. “I could sit there all day and design one thing after another. I don’t get sick of it.” The mother and daughter team work well together. There are no egos present at their photo shoots. “There is a tiny bit of competitiveness,” said Lisa. “However, she is my daughter and I can say, ‘wow you did this? That is awesome! I wish I could have done that.’” In 2009, with the photography business established, the Swenson family decided to take a trip back to Guatemala for Christmas. During this trip, Katie reconnected with Esau and spent more time getting to know him and his family. “I was there for almost five months and I got to know his family really well,” said Katie. Then, just before a Thursday night bible study class, Esau asked Katie to marry him. “He got down on both knees and held my hands and said ‘Katie will you be my wife?’” Katie said with a smile that never seems to leave her face. “There was no other answer but yes.” “It was definitely part of a grander plan because now I’m married to a Guatemalan,” said Katie. Our family is half and half. It’s really nice for the boys to have him as an
example because he understands their culture. Especially for Victor because he was 8 when he was adopted.” Katie and Esau where married in November of 2010 at the Masonic Temple in Devils Lake. “It’s good for Victor and Jonathan to feel more connected to their culture. It’s helped to build a bridge to the lives they had in Guatemala.” In May of 2010, both Lisa and Katie went to Missoula to the Rocky Mountain School of Photography for personalized instruction. This opportunity gave Katie a more formal education in photography. “I really believe in education. My philosophy is: I don’t attempt to do things that I’m not prepared for,” said Lisa. “There is a science to photography. If you don’t embrace the technical side of photography you can only do so much. Growth in photography happens in two parallel aspects, creativity and the technical side and they both have to grow. To reach new levels, you have to develop both aspects.” [LRW]
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