femmes INTERNATIONAL
Get Your Kicks on Route 66! Danielle Girdano Shatters the Asphalt Ceiling & Makes It Look Easy!
Less Is
MORE! CHRISTMAS AROUND THE WORLD
International Feast with a TWIST november december 2016
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FROM 3906
I believe each day gives us something; a few minutes of afternoon light casting intricate shadows on a dining room wall, or a delicious Pesto because the basil got knee-high. Maybe some things broke my heart....... I write about them all. My name is Becca. I live in Dallas but I left my heart in Florence, Italy. I'd like to thank you for reading.
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The mission at Hope’s Seed is multidimensional in s cope and a big job for founder Shelley Simon , who also has a beautiful daughter, Zoe, with special needs. Thus, she has first -hand knowledge of what families go through on a regular basis. and her goal is to plant seeds of hope and to show families they are not alone. The vision created by Ms. Simon for Hope’s Seed to:
To inspire families of children with special needs to know that there is hope in every situation, To support, educate, and encourage families of children, To promote a philosophy of normalcy for children with special needs, To educate medical professionals regarding the importance of support for families, To enrich the lives of children, To connect communities and families with special needs children in order to promote understanding, To empower families to look outside of their own issues in order to support other families with special needs children. .
Children’s Medical Center in Dallas, Texas has four (4) ICU floors, six (6) Critical Care Step Down Units and general pediatric floors that can care for an average number of 495 children at one time. Hospital Inpatient programs include specialized feedings/nutrition, rehabilitation and pulmonary programs. Children’s Medical Center has an Intensive day patient program which includes a neuro-day program and a feeding day program. In 2014, approximately 6 million children in America receive special education, according to the U.S. Department of Education. One out of every 10 children under the age of 14 has some type of special need, which includes any physical, cognitive, or medical disability, or chronic or life threatening illness. Donate now to help us provide ongoing, uplifting programs with a special touch to critically ill children and their families. E-mail: shelleycolquitt@hopesseed.com US: (214)673-7047
November December 2016 ON THE COVER Danielle Girdano, World Record for cycling across America from Chicago to LA along Route 66, bringing awareness to childhood obesity and bullying. Congratulations Danielle! Photography by Renee Baker.
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CranioSacral Therapy • Lymph Drainage Therapy Additional Alternative Wellness Options & Massage CranioSacral Therapy - gentle light-touch therapy – releases tensions in the Central Nervous System which relaxes all other body systems to self-correct.
CranioSacral Therapy for Conception, Pregnancy and Birthing CranioSacral Therapy for Pediatrics Helping People Understand Possibilities for Their Families Central Nervous System Disorders Learning Disabilities ADD/ADHD Lip/Tongue Tie Post-Surgical Procedure Fertility Issues Labor and Delivery Postpartum Orthopedic Problems And Many Other Conditions
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Publisher & Editor femme = femme, sister = sister Robin & Becca
Hints of Winter! Our holiday issue is packed full of so much fabulous information, like holiday traditional foods with a new flavor! Pages glisten with Christmas Around the World and Hot Holiday Vacation Spots; Melinda Cooper talks about the Times Are Changing and Deborah Ricci says Less Is More! It seems fitting as fall fades and the new season arrives, that we prepare for the winter and the holidays ahead by learning, searching and preparing to be more informed, accepting and understanding of those around us. Think smart when talking to kids, business associates, family and friends. Be kinder to ourselves for not being in the best shape (it is doable!), educated about business tips for the new year as well as motivated for a fresh direction in which to grow.
femmes
INTERNATIONAL Magazine proudly announced the launch of our Latina publication,
mujer USA, in association with AMEP and we are excited to be working with our Latin counterparts in offering women a platform in which to explore and celebrate the commonality of our diversity. We hope you will check it out and share it to your Latina friends. Exploring the Commonality of our Diversity is the mantra of femmes INTERNATIONAL so each issue, we feature outstanding women who will inspire you to follow your dreams. Amazing describes Danielle Girdano, fitness coach and cyclist who rode across the US, breaking a world record and certainly showing us all that you can do anything! And Benita Faizy, attorney and now food truck entrepreneur, shares her heartwarming story of honor and passion. We hope you will enjoy reading our holiday issue and please share with other femmes. That is what it’s all about; one femme to another. Visit femmes INTERNATIONAL in all its glory; website, Facebook, magazine, and radio station‌www.femmesinternational.com. Enjoy and make it a femmeTASTIC holiday season!
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Shattering the Asphalt Ceiling Awesome, dynamite, unbelievable, amazing, outstanding ... all describe Danielle Girdano, D’fine Your Health physical trainer and radio show host who shattered the 44 day world record for cycling Across America from
Childhood obesity has more than doubled in children and quadrupled in adolescents in the past 30 years.
Chicago to Los Angeles on Route 66. She did it in only 23 days and made it look easy.
benefit multiple areas of life,” states Girdano.
The percentage of children aged 6–11 years in the United States who were obese increased from 7% in 1980 to nearly 18% in 2012. Similarly, the percentage of adolescents aged 12– 19 years who were obese increased from 5% to nearly 21% over the same period.
As an overweight child who was ridiculed, she shares her story and
In 2012, more than one third of children and adolescents were overweight or obese.
But easy it was not! Danielle's belief that all of us need to be healthier, live healthier, eat healthier led her to this journey to bring attention to obesity the and bullying. “It's the small steps that lead to giant leaps. In reaching your greatest potential goals, both external & internal are equally as important as short and long term timelines. Qualities that
motivation to audiences across the country. This grueling ride only shows that you can do whatever you want as long as you're dedicated and you prepare well for the journey. As a trainer/coach, Danielle approaches each client with the same doggedness and as her ride, focus for an extremely positive outcome. She says we make choices and her goal is to help as many people as possible make the healthier ones, especially for children. Danielle can be found sharing health tips, advice, conversing with experts in related industries and inspiring others through her radio show, D’Fine Your Health with Danielle Girdano on PegasusNetWaves.com and by following the Highway for Health (.org). Change It!
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Overweight is defined as having excess body weight for a particular height from fat, muscle, bone, water, or a combination of these factors. Obesity is defined as having excess body fat. Overweight and obesity are the result of “caloric imbalance”— too few calories expended for the amount of calories consumed—and are affected by various genetic, behavioral, and environmental factors.
People with diabetes frequently experience certain symptoms. These include:
being very thirsty
frequent urination
weight loss
increased hunger
blurry vision
irritability
tingling or numbness in the hands or feet
frequent skin, bladder or gum infections
wounds that don't heal
extreme unexplained fatigue
What is diabetes? Diabetes is a disease in which the body is unable to properly use and store glucose (a form of sugar). Glucose backs up in the bloodstream — causing one’s blood glucose (sometimes referred to as blood sugar) to rise too high. There are two major types of diabetes. In type 1 (formerly called juvenile-onset or insulin-dependent) diabetes, the body completely stops producing any insulin, a hormone that enables the body to use glucose found in foods for energy. People with type 1 diabetes must take daily insulin injections to survive. This form of diabetes usually develops in children or young adults, but can occur at any age. Type 2 (formerly called adult-onset or non-insulin-dependent) diabetes results when the body doesn’t produce enough insulin and/or is unable to use insulin properly (insulin resistance). This form of diabetes usually occurs in people who are over 40, overweight, and have a family history of diabetes, although today it is increasingly occurring in younger people, particularly adolescents.
Myth #1: Diabetes is caused by eating too much sugar. Myth #2: Taking insulin means you have “failed.” Myth #3: If you have diabetes, you can’t lead an active lifestyle. Myth #4: Injecting insulin is painful.
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CHRISTMAS
Argentina The main Christmas celebrations take place on Christmas Eve. Many Catholics will go to a Mass in the late afternoon. House are beautifully decorated with lights and wreaths of green, gold, red and white flowers. Red and white garlands are hung on the doors of houses. Any tree might be made into a Christmas Tree - not just the traditional fir tree! The Nativity scene or 'pesebre' is also an important Christmas decoration in Argentina and placed near the tree. The main Christmas celebrations take place on Christmas Eve with late afternoon church services, late night dinner followed by the sound of lots of fireworks as people 'toast' the start of Christmas day. Another Christmas Eve night tradition are 'globos', paper decorations with a light inside that float into the sky (like Chinese Lanterns). The sky is filled with them on Christmas Eve after midnight.
South Africa
Because South Africa is in the Southern Hemisphere, Christmas comes in the summer. So there's lots of sun and beautiful flowers in full bloom. Christmas Eve, is very popular in towns and cities. Traditional 'fir' Christmas trees are popular and children leave a stocking out for Santa Claus on Christmas Eve. Traditional barbecue or 'braai'.
Finland
Just before the Christmas festivities begin, people usually take a Christmas sauna. The tradition is very old; based on a pre-20th century belief that the spirits of the dead return and have a sauna at the usual sauna hours so these are taken before sunset. Taking a sauna begins by washing oneself up and then going to sit for some time in the hot room, typically warmed to 80– 110 °C (176–230 °F). Water is thrown on the hot stones topping the kiuas, a special stove used to warm up the sauna. This produces steam, known as löyly, which increases the moisture and heat within the sauna. The word löyly is used for this steam only in the context of the sauna. Occasionally one uses leafy, fragrant boughs of silver birch called vihta (or vasta) to beat oneself. This has a relaxing effect on the muscles. After this rolling in the snow or swimming in a hole cut in the ice, an avanto, is recommended. After cooling one goes back to the hot room and begins the cycle again.
Egypt
Most Egyptian Christians belong to the Coptic Orthodox Church and they have some very unique traditions for Christmas. Christmas Day isn't celebrated on the 25th December but on 7th January (like in Ethiopia and by some Orthodox Christians in Russia and Serbia). The Coptic month leading to Christmas is called Kiahk. People sing special praise songs on Saturday nights before the Sunday Service. For the 43 days before Christmas (Advent), from 25th November to 6th January, Coptic Orthodox Christians have a special fast where they basically eat a vegan diet. On Coptic Christmas Eve (6th January), Coptic Christians go to church for a special liturgy or Service. The services normally start about 10.30pm but some chapels will be open for people to pray from 10.00pm. When the Christmas service ends people go home to eat the big Christmas meal. All the foods contain meat, eggs and butter - all the yummy things they didn't have during the Advent fast! On the Orthodox Christmas Day (7th) people come together in homes for parties and festivities. People often take 'kahk' (special sweet biscuits) with them to give as gifts.
h
Sri Lanka
Although Sri Lanka is a mostly Buddhist country (only 7% of people are Christians) Christmas is celebrated as a public holiday by everyone. The Christians go to Midnight Mass services all over the country. They also invite friends, both Christian and nonChristian to their homes for parties. In this island nation, hot curries are what most Sri Lankans eat throughout the year. But Christmas is different. That's when roast turkey with stuffing and fruit-laden steamed puddings hit the table. Turkeys are shipped in from the United States, but the pudding is English in origin and a tradition. Carol parties came to the doorstep. At Kawdana, children in costume came around singing Sinhala carols.
Pakistan
In Pakistan, December 25th is a public holiday, but it is in memory of Jinnah, the founder of Pakistan. At Christian festivals, like Christmas and Easter, a big procession takes place, in Lahore, from St. Anthony's Church to the Cathedral. It takes hours to reach the Cathedral for the services. These are then celebrated with lots of enthusiasm! Before and during Advent, spiritual seminars take place to help people to prepare for Christmas or 'Bara Din' (which in Urdu and Punjabi means the 'Big Day'). This expression is very popular, even among Muslims in Pakistan. During the last week of Advent, in many Christian areas, carol singing is performed by various groups. They go from house to house singing carols and in return the family offers something to the choir. Mostly the money collected from such carols is used for charity works or is given to the church. In the big Christian areas, each house is decorated and has a star on the roof. The streets are also decorated and lit. The crib and Christmas tree are also important decorations. Sometimes there are crib competitions! Christians also sometimes exchange Christmas cakes. On Christmas Eve, Churches are packed for the midnight or vigil-mass services. The choirs sing very special hymns. ar the special night. After the vigil-mass, there are fireworks which help celebrate the start of Bara Din. People dance, exchange presents and enjoy the special night. On Bara Din or Christmas Day, Christians go to Church again for the Bara Din celebrations. People wear their best, colourful clothes. They can stay in the Church courtyard for hours, enjoying various food from the different stalls. The evening is usually celebrated with immediate family or relatives where special food is enjoyed. Adults often visit their parents.
Japan Christmas has only been widely celebrated in Japan for the last few decades and is known as more of a time to spread happiness rather than a religious celebration. It is not a national holiday, so schools and businesses are normally open on December 25th. Christmas eve is often celebrated more than Christmas Day; thought of as a romantic day, in which couples spend together and exchange presents. Young couples like to go for walks to look at the Christmas lights and have a romantic meal in a restaurant - booking a table on Christmas Eve can be very difficult as it's so popular! Parties are often held for children, with games and dancing. Fried chicken is often eaten on Christmas day along with the traditional Japanese Christmas Cake, a sponge cake decorated with strawberries and whipped cream.
Revolution & MIRACLES The Jewish Festival of Lights, Hanukkah, is celebrated for eight days beginning at sundown on December 24, 2016. The story of Hanukkah is one of revolution and miracles: Greek influence over the Jews in the Land of Israel had become an affront to Jewish culture and ritual. Antiochus, the Greek ruler, forbade Jewish religious practice, so a small group of Jews, the Maccabees, revolted. These Jews eventually prevailed and, as a first order of business, restored the Holy Temple, which had been desecrated. An eight-day celebration, Hanukkah commemorates the rededication of the Second Temple in Jerusalem in the second century B.C.E. during the Maccabean revolt against oppressive Greek rulers. It is one of the most widely observed Jewish holidays. The menorah in the Temple needed to be re-lit because, according to tradition, it should burn continuously. The Temple liberators found one vial of olive oil, enough for one day of light. Miraculously, the oil lasted for eight days. Today it is celebrated by lighting a nine-branch candelabrum, commonly called a menorah.
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Today, Jews everywhere light menorahs on each night of Hanukkah. Traditionally, one candle or flame is lit for each night until the eighth night, when all eight lights shine together. The menorah has a ninth “helper” flame — known as the shamash— used to light the other candles. This is necessary because in Jewish law the Hanukkah lights’ only purpose is to visually proclaim the miracle of the holiday. Jews place the lit menorah in a prominent window to fulfill this commandment. Gift giving is now a common practice on Hanukkah, and it is therefore a beloved time for Jewish children. Fried potato pancakes (latkes) and doughnuts (sufganiyot) are traditional fare, and a spinning top (dreidel) with four Hebrew letters has become synonymous with the holiday. The letters — nun, gimel, hei, shin — form an acronym for the message
of
Hanukkah: A great miracle
happened
there.
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Less is Most Definitely MORE! By Deborah Ricci Every year at this time, when the countdown is imminent, and while there is still a chance, I pull back and think about how I want our holidays to turn out. Of course, like many others, I wish it to be free of the stresses that most certainly accompany the months of November and December; for sure! Couple it with the busyness, buzzing, and buying we all seem to struggle with and you’ve got the old family recipe for burn-out. I’m sure you echo my sentiment for less work and more play, but without the aid of my magic wand, which happens to be on the fritz at this moment, I must regroup sensibly and choose what is. My plans can sometimes get caught up in an unrealistic measuring process. Don’t be blindsided by the hustling and bustling. We are still relegated to living in real time: 24 hour days, right? So, here’s our chance to forgo anything that might not be top priority as I am reminded that most expectations do indeed lead to suffering. Don’t get me wrong. I’d love to be decking, baking, and caroling as much as the next gal, but committing to an unrealistic amount of holiday happenings might just get you on the naughty list. Remember … we don’t have to book ourselves for every activity that gets thrown our way. Instead, let’s be more reserved with accepting invitations, choosing only the ones that truly represent our idea of merry making. We can pull back, keeping our overzealous plans simple. But, wait … what will happen then? Well, the pay-off might just be that we get to enjoy our most peaceful holiday season ever! Imagine waking up on December 26th and NOT feeling huge pangs of relief and remorse both at the same time! What would that look like? Sounds pretty merry to me! Pick one or two thoughtful things that you and your loved ones might enjoy doing and set a limit using the real time formula. (I know … tough to remember.) It just might be the difference between making popcorn balls and being stress balls! Besides, making really nice memories and creating new traditions will stay with you for generations to come. For instance, every year I send the grandchildren in our family a special ornament, and one day when they venture out into their adult lives with trees of their own, they will have a head start on their decorations and also have great memories of Aunt Deb sending them along every year! So, because I am a bit of a MacGyver-type gal, I can fix my wand and get just enough magic out of it to grant a few moments of cherished time filled with love, generosity, and peace. Let’s take time to reflect on our own personal needs before the season gets away from us, by giving ourselves the most precious gift of all … time. Set aside some personal space just for you to enjoy some special little thing. It could be making yourself a genuine cup of hot cocoa, picking up your favorite pen and setting out to get your holidays cards finished early this year. By claiming some well deserved moments, we will have the energy and intention to host a beautiful and meaningful celebration no matter its size or grandeur. And by keeping your expectations smaller, good times can be had by all! Deborah Ricci is a freelance writer living in McKinney. Feel free to write her at: Deborah@Teresinas.com
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Move Over …There’s a New Food Truck in Town! By Robin Roberson
Talk about blazing a new trail after five years as an attorney, Benita Faizy has ventured out into her life’s calling: cooking. She has created, Oh My Kabobs, an environment where all guests can experience a different culture, try exciting flavorful new foods, and enjoying a little history while waiting. Kabobs are essential to her culture, and Faizy desires to share the authentic and flavorful Mediterranean cuisine by way of a food truck because it allows freedom of being self-employed and no time clock to punch. Not to say she is lazy; this little lady is a firecracker on a mission. Oh My Kabob features delicious and authentic cuisine prepared by this beautiful 31-year-old owner/operator, with a menu designed as a build-your-own. Start with a main item of your choice—beef kabob, chicken kabob, gyro, grilled vegetables or falafel. Then, place the main item atop rice or Mediterranean fries or in a pita wrap. Next, choose from one of four homemade sauces including the classics tzatziki, hummus and tahini, or a special spicy red
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sauce that you’ll just have to try! The fries are tossed in Mediterranean seasonings and topped with homemade tahini and spicy red sauce, along with cilantro and feta cheese ... oh my!! But the fries are not the notable aspect; the underlying story is Benita’s. Growing up in Plano, she yearned to follow her father’s footsteps in law; as he unfortunately passed away when she was young. Yet, she found her love of cooking indirectly from him, and her mom. “I cooked breakfast for my entire family who were visiting for his funeral,” said Benita, who credits this experience to her passion in the kitchen. She also recalls her mother hosting extravagant parties with homemade food for guests. Warm memories with lots of food and family. During her undergraduate and law school studies, she did catering jobs for parties and schools and everyone raved. She transferred to SMU’s Dedman School of Law to be closer to her ailing mother, who died not long before her graduation. She proudly fulfilled her mother’s wishes for the law degree and for her mom’s one-year memorial celebration, she hosted a 50person Mediterranean dinner. “Everyone was impressed with my passion for cooking and the flavors of my dishes. I’m IranianAmerican, so my love for Mediterranean food comes from my background.” This was a defining moment on the road to food truck proprietor. Benita took the plunge, and so far, so good. Oh My Kabob and entrepreneur owner, Benita Faizy, has joined the dining industry’s food truck trend and is wowing the Metroplex.
Robin Roberson, femmesINTERNATIONAL.com
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Life is Magical By Katherine L. Clausen
The Holiday Season is a time for family, a time of wonder, of friendship, of giving … of rushing around like a crazy person. It is the season of extreme highs and lows. As business owners and managers, we are often twice as busy. For some of us this is the season that makes the sales numbers we need for the whole year. For others, this is a season where things slow down. Then there is the season itself with the expectation that we focus on spending time with our friends and family participating in all our holiday traditions. All the above is stressful and can cause many a sleepless night. This also the time of year, we start planning on what we want to have in our life and in the lives of those we love. We all start to believe in magic just a little bit and that dreams, really, can, come true. Life is magical, and all of us deserve to have our dreams. I believe this, heart and soul. I am a firm believer in Law of Attraction. I mean, it is grounded in science. There are studies that prove humans tend to seek out other people like them. Albert Einstein talks about how our thoughts send out signals or vibrations that help attract other like vibrations to us. We are our thoughts. The part of Law of Attraction I often disagree with is that if we think good thoughts and we feel those thoughts, and we act like we already have what it is we are thinking about, then poof, we have the life we have dreamed. No, that just isn’t how it works. It just isn’t. To be clear, our mindset and what we spend our time thinking about are extremely important. I can’t stress that enough. To clarify, I am not saying that we need to plot and plan how to get our dreams to come true. No, getting stuck in how things will happen is just as deadly as sitting back and believing it will come to you. You might be wondering what I am saying at this time. Living the life you dream is so very possible has to be grounded from the start. 27
Here is what I mean: We must focus our attention on what we want in this life, what our dreams are, what the vision is for our life. It should be our first thought of the day. Take three minutes to visualize what we want, look at vision boards and/or read affirmations. EVERY DAY. This is the thought part; focusing on and thinking about what we want. (Caution: Do not think about what you don’t have or wish you had or how the dream hasn’t come true yet, this is poison to you.) We must take the time to be in control and keep focused on our dreams. When we are focused on our dreams, on what we want, we will TAKE ACTION on things that will help us achieve those dreams. Anything that comes to us or that we think about doing will be judged against the criteria of, “Will this move us towards what we want to experience?” Our thoughts and the action we take due to those thoughts attract more of those types of thoughts towards us, which means we take more actions around those same thoughts. Then the results we get are based on those thoughts and those actions. We get the life we live based on the action we took or didn’t take. Here is the deal: You can have a magical life and live your dreams in full color, it just has to be grounded in the reality and in the actions you take every day. Not living the life you crave? Maybe it’s time to flip your switch, change the channel of your thoughts, so you can attract more positive thoughts, therefore take more positive actions that will move you towards your heart’s desire! Something to consider to attract a stress-free holiday season – as you give your employees time off – make sure you take some time off as well. Real time off – NO BUSINESS stuff during this time. Maybe even a couple of extra afternoons off to get stuff done on the personal side. Take the time to re-connect with those you care about.
At Your Empowered Solutions, we are here as a resource for your business in accomplishing goals, reducing stress, putting systems in place, leadership development, delegation, and the ability to take non-working vacations. Contact us at info@yourempoweredsolutions.com for a complementary Solution Session.
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Is Your Venture Timely and Have a Demand Market? By Robin Austin No doubt, success is about making money and in order to make money, you must sell a product or service that will be well received now and in the future. Many believe that if they love the product or service, everyone else will too. Not necessarily. It does help if you use your own product because then you will know a little more about who might buy it and you can tell your customers more about your personal experience with it. Even though you may shrug at what I am going to tell you, it is very important that you pay attention to other products like yours in your market and that you define your market before you proceed. Who will buy your product or service? Who are your customers? Are they thin, fat, old, young? Are they educated? How much money do they make for their household? Do they have children or are they children? Create a profile of what your customer looks like. Also, know what other products they buy that are similar to yours. Be real with yourself here.
Your product must be similar enough to seem as a substitution and yet different enough with a better value for the money. Many companies have been very successful as long as they were prepared for reaction from their customers and as long as they were prepared to pivot if necessary. So ‌ first prepare a profile of your customer and include their buying habits. Much of this can be found online if you know where and how to look. Never ever base your success on price. You should evaluate other products that are being sold to your market that are similar to yours. Sometimes it is best to piggy-back onto what others are doing. Look at everyone you can; those who seem successful and those who are not. Is their brand well known? Learn as much as you can about the other companies in your market and your possible customers. You may want to make an appointment with someone who is an executive manager, owner, or in a leadership position. I have interviewed them based on a set of questions that would help me determine their market position based on their answers. Be bold and talk to them. For more in-depth information, look for my book Audacious Venturer, coming out February, 2017.
A Demand Market means both that it is a product that is in demand and that may already have a competitor selling a product similar to yours. This is both good and bad. It is good because the market is already created and you can figure out based on a similar product what to do and how to do it because it has already been done. That is ‌ if the similar company is making money. It is bad, because you have competition.
Robin Austin, Managing Partner AuDashUS Financial and Honu Capital www.audashusfinancial.com
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ADAPTIVE BRAS … A FRESH NEW FORM OF COMFORT By Maria Valencia For women who are recovering from a stroke, suffer from arthritis, diabetes, dexterity movement, or have gone through a surgical procedure that has left them with limited mobility of their arms and hands, an adaptive bra is something to consider. An adaptive bra can make a positive difference in women’s selfesteem and give them back the ability to dress themselves as they go through their recovery. What exactly is an Adaptive Bra? An adaptive bra is typically a front-closure style that makes dressing easier by having large hooks, a zipper, snaps or Velcro® closures, and allows women to dress themselves without too much help from a caregiver (depending on the severity of their mobility challenge). What to consider when shopping for an Adaptive Bra: Is the bra easy to put on? Does is offer all-day comfort? Do the straps stay in place? Does it give enough coverage or does the cup runneth over? Are the fabrics & elastics comfortable on your skin? Is the bra machine washable? For everyone, but especially for well-endowed women, comfort is important. It is imperative for large busted women to have a well-fitting bra to avoid skin-to-skin contact under the bust which can result in rashes and skin breakouts that are painful and difficult to clear up. A comfortable bra for daily use is the best way to keep skin healthy. An Adaptive Bra is the perfect solution for both support and all day comfort. And the best news is that they are now available online and in stores. Maria E. Valencia, Fresh Comfort, Inc., Founder and President, offers FREE bra fitting sessions in the DFW area for a group of 4-6 women. Grab a few friends, call 214-705-0408 for an appointment and finally get the best fit your breasts deserve.
Maria E. Valencia, Founder and President, Fresh Comfort, Inc. “Adaptive Intimate Apparel for a Better Life”
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TRADITIONAL HOLIDAY DISHES with a TWIST Crema de Vie -- Cuban Eggnog Yield: 12 servings The Cuban version of eggnog -- a must for your holiday parties! INGREDIENTS: 10 pasteurized egg yolks 2 cups sugar 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 1 (14-ounce)can condensed milk 2 cups whole milk 1 cup heavy cream 1 teaspoon vanilla extract 1 teaspoon rum extract dark rum (see instructions) NOTE: You must use pasteurized eggs for this and any other eggnog recipe! The eggs are not cooked and you cannot rely on the alcohol to eliminate any nasty bugs! Use an electric mixer to cream the sugar and egg yolks together. Gradually add the sweetened condensed milk and one cup of whole milk. Beat for a minute or two to dissolve the sugar. Add the rest of the milk, the cream, the vanilla, and the rum extract. Beat until the mixture is thick and frothy. Garnish with a dusting of nutmeg and serve immediately.
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Gazpacho Shrimp Salad We've turned a traditional soup into an irresistible salad. This salad main dish recipe combines jumbo shrimp, vegetables, and croutons, tossed in a delicious roasted red pepper and tomato dressing. Ingredients
1 1/2pounds fresh or frozen extra-large or jumbo shrimp, unpeeled
1Recipe Red Pepper-Tomato Dressing, below
5large ripe tomatoes, chopped
1medium green or red sweet pepper, chopped
1medium red onion, chopped
1English cucumber, chopped
2cups purchased crushed croutons
Italian (flat-leaf) parsley
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Red Pepper-Tomato Dressing
Ingredients
11/2 ounce jar roasted red sweet peppers
2large, ripe tomatoes, quartered
1/3cup extra-virgin olive oil
2tablespoons vinegar
1 clove garlic, minced
1teaspoon smoked paprika
Directions Drain roasted red sweet peppers. In blender combine peppers, tomatoes, extra virgin olive oil, 1 tablespoon vinegar, garlic, and smoked paprika. Cover and blend until very smooth. Season with remaining 1 tablespoon vinegar, salt, and pepper.
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Au Poivre Rub Ingredients
1tablespoon paprika
1 1/2teaspoons cracked black pepper
1 1/2teaspoons cracked white peppercorns
1 1/2teaspoons cracked pink peppercorns
1teaspoon salt
1teaspoon dry mustard
1teaspoon dried rosemary crushed Directions In a bowl combine ingredients. Rub onto turkey. Cover and chill about 8 hours before roasting. Follow roasting times on turkey cooking directions. 36
Cheesy Mashed Potato Pots Ingredients
2pounds red skinned or Yukon Gold potatoes, peeled, if desired and cut up
1/2teaspoon salt
1/8teaspoon freshly ground black pepper
Milk (optional)
1/2cup whipping cream
1/3cup shredded American or cheddar cheese
Freshly ground black pepper (optional)
Directions Preheat oven to 350 degrees F. In a covered large saucepan, cook potatoes in enough boiling water to cover for 15 to 20 minutes or until tender. Drain. Mash with a potato masher or beat with an electric mixer on low speed. Season with the salt and 1/8 teaspoon pepper. If necessary, add a small amount of milk for desired consistency. Grease four 10- to 12-ounce individual casseroles or custard cups or a 1- to 1-1/2-quart casserole. Spoon potato mixture into prepared casserole(s). In a chilled medium bowl, beat whipping cream with chilled beaters of an electric mixer on medium speed until soft peaks form (tips curl over); fold in cheese. Spoon cheese mixture over potatoes. Place casserole(s) on a baking sheet. Bake, uncovered, about 20 minutes or until lightly browned and heated through. If desired, sprinkle with additional black pepper. Makes 4 servings.
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Chipotle Mashed Sweet Potatoes
This side dish adds the perfect flair to your traditional sweet potatoes inspired by authentic Mexican ingredients.
Ingredients 2 large sweet potatoes, peeled and cubed 1 3" stick cinnamon, preferably Mexican canela 2 tablespoons unsalted butter ¼ cup crema Mexicana 1 chipotle pepper in adobo sauce, minced ½ teaspoon salt 1/8 teaspoon ground pepper
Directions
Place cubed potatoes and cinnamon stick in a 5-quart pot and cover with water. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; cover and simmer for 15-20 minutes or until tender. Drain water and discard cinnamon stick and return to the pot.
Add butter, crema Mexicana, chipotle, salt, and pepper to potatoes and mash with potato masher. Serve warm.
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Smoky Green Bean Casserole Ingredients 1 1/2pounds fresh or frozen thin green beans or haricots verts, trimmed and halved crosswise6cups sliced cremini or button mushrooms (16 ounces) 33 cloves garlic, minced 1tablespoon olive oil 110 3/4 ounce can condensed cream of mushroom soup 1cup shredded smoked Gouda cheese or cheddar cheese (4 ounces) 1/4cup milk
2tablespoons whole grain mustard
1cup roasted red sweet pepper strips
18 ounce can sliced water chestnuts, drained and coarsely chopped
12.8 ounce can french-fried onions
Directions 1. In a 4-quart Dutch oven cook green beans in lightly salted boiling water for 3 minutes. Drain beans and pour into a very large bowl of ice water. Drain again. Transfer to a very large bowl. 2. In a large saucepan cook and stir mushrooms and garlic in hot oil over medium to medium-high heat until soft and beginning to brown. Stir in soup, cheese, milk, and mustard until combined. Add to bowl with beans. Add red pepper and water chestnuts. Toss to combine. 3. Spoon half of the bean mixture into a 4-quart slow cooker. Top with half of the french-fried onions. Repeat layers. 4. Cover and cook on low-heat setting for 4-1/2 to 5 hours or on high-heat setting for 2-1/4 to 21/2 hours.
39
Almond-Tangerine Panna Cotta Ingredients
3tablespoons sugar
1 1/2teaspoons unflavored gelatin
1cup fat-free milk
1cup plain Greek yogurt
1/2teaspoon almond extract
1tablespoon sugar
1teaspoon cornstarch
1/3cup pomegranate or cranberry juice
1/2cup tangerine sections (3 to 4 tangerines)
2tablespoons snipped dried tart cherries
Directions 1. Place four 6-ounce custard cups or ramekins in a shallow baking pan; set aside. In a small saucepan stir together 3 tablespoons sugar and gelatin. Stir in milk. Heat over medium heat until gelatin is dissolved, stirring frequently. Remove from heat. Whisk in yogurt and 1/4 teaspoon of the almond extract until smooth. Pour mixture into custard cups. Cover and chill for 4 to 24 hours or until set. 2. For sauce, in a small saucepan stir together 1 tablespoon sugar and cornstarch. Stir in pomegranate juice. Cook and stir over medium heat until thickened and bubbly. Remove from heat. Stir in tangerine sections, cherries, and the remaining 1/4 teaspoon almond extract. Cool. 3. To serve, immerse bottom halves of custard cups in hot water for 10 seconds. Using a small sharp knife, loosen panna cotta from sides of cups. Invert a serving plate over each cup; turn plate and cup over together. Remove cups. Serve panna cotta with sauce.
40
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FAT BUSTERS By Kathryn E. White, M.D.
Who hasn’t been aggravated with those fat deposits that don’t go away no matter how much we diet or how hard we exercise? For many years the only options that were available to rid yourself of stubborn fat were invasive and required surgery such as liposuction. Thankfully there is new technology allowing for non-invasive procedures that are relatively simple with no downtime. Here at Azure Med Spa, we are excited to share this new information with you and to offer several of these procedures to our clients!
Zerona® was originally developed as a pretreatment for liposuction but then introduced in 2009 as a stand-alone treatment for circumferential fat reduction. This involves cold laser technology which targets fat cells and emulsifies the fat within them. The laser causes a pore to open in the fat cell membrane and the fat is essentially drained out of the fat cell. This is then released via the lymphatic system. This process does not destroy or remove the fat
cell but simply drains it. The procedure takes about 40 minutes and is completely painless! The laser produces no heat or discomfort. It does require several treatments three times per week with approximately 9-12 treatments needed for maximum results. An average of 3.64 inches are lost circumferentially from the waist, hips and thighs over the treatment period. While Zerona® works very well for circumferential reduction, it still could not target specific fat deposits. Another procedure, known as CoolSculpting, was FDA approved in 2010 for fat reduction as well. There are now five areas which have received FDA approval and these include the abdomen, flanks, inner and outer thighs as well as the chin. Coolsculpting is a process known as cryolipolysis® which involves freezing fat cells to permanently destroy the fat cell. Since fat freezes faster than other tissues, there is no damage to surrounding skin or other structures. The process involves suction to pull the fat tissue into the device and then freeze it for an hour. Side effects may include nodules under the skin, numbness, bruising, swelling, tingling, itching and skin sensitivity in the treated area. Results have shown about a 20-25% reduction in fat and often more than one treatment is necessary to achieve desired results. There have also been reports of “shelving” following the procedure where irregularities may occur in areas of untreated fat.
SculpSure® is the most recent fat reduction device to receive FDA approval in 2015. This device is a laser which causes destruction of the fat cells using heat rather than freezing. Current FDA approval is for the abdomen and flanks. There are several different sizes of flat applicators that are held in place over the treatment area with belts. The laser then attaches to these applicators and heats the treated area for twenty-five minutes. There is no suction of the tissue required which leads to a more even distribution of the treatment zone and less chance for irregularities. Contact cooling is provided during the entire process to make this a comfortable procedure. The skin or surrounding tissues are not damaged due to the particular wavelength of the laser which has an affinity for fat. SculpSure® has comparable results to CoolSculpting with a 24% fat reduction following a single treatment. Most patients will require two treatments for optimal results. Results may be apparent as early as 6-8 weeks however optimal results are seen at 12 weeks.
But what about that double chin? Coolsculpting can actually be used to treat this as well but there is also a new, very simple option known as Kybella®. This is an injection of deoxycholic acid directly into the fatty tissue. The medication causes destruction of the fat cell by a chemical process so this is also a permanent removal of the fat in this region. The injection is a very simple procedure which takes about ten minutes. Topical anesthesia can be applied prior to the injection if needed but this is often not necessary. The treated area generally feels numb following injection but other side effects may include swelling, bruising and discomfort. It may be necessary to have more than one treatment with Kybella® as well which could be done one month apart. Azure Med Spa is now pleased to offer both SculpSure® and Kybella® in addition to Zerona®! We chose the SculpSure® device for several reasons. First and foremost was the comfort of the procedure. The continuous cooling process makes SculpSure® very tolerable and the treatment time is only 25 minutes compared to an hour. It is also possible to treat multiple areas concurrently with SculpSure® whereas Coolsculpting can only treat one area at a time unless there are multiple machines. There is no concern for “shelving” with the SculpSure® device as well due to the more even heat distribution to surrounding tissue. Fat destruction is comparable between the two technologies with both resulting in an average of 20-25% reduction following a single treatment. Call us today to learn more about these exciting new technologies and rid yourself of stubborn fat! 2840 Legacy Dr #200, Frisco, TX 75034 (972) 294-6992
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Times are Changing! By Melinda Cooper Times are changing for each of us, if nothing else; the weather tells us the season has changed. We are no longer at 100 degree temps and it is time to begin the festivities with families and friends. The holidays are coming: Halloween, Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s, seemingly faster than last year. It is time to prepare for the tempo of 2016 coming to its end as we begin to look forward to 2017 and how are we going to achieve our goals. Each year as the seasons change, there is a moment to review what is going on. This year when we look, we cannot help but notice our world seems to be in array. As such, we are all being called upon to step up and make a difference. Make a difference in the work we do, within our own families, and within every area we are involved. While you may be wondering how to make a difference, how to become part of the bigger change, you will be surprised there are many, different ways. One of the easiest ways to begin to make a difference is within your own hands’ reach, closer than you think. You can easily make the commitment to start at home then work forward. We begin with the much forgotten cleaning your closet and getting rid of what you don’t wear or what doesn’t fit you any longer. Go into the garage/storage and think whether you really need those things any longer. While you might think these are ways of helping only you, they are helping others. NOW you have something to donate, you have something to share with others who may not have anything, and you might find some treasures that could be reused. While you are cleaning out the cobwebs of your home, be sure to take a moment to work through the cobwebs of your mind. Yes, during these necessary times, these changing moments call to you, to take time to think what you know and how to repackage it for someone else to be able to utilize it. Time to put a new twist on what you know, and allow others to benefit from your knowledge. Accept your wisdom, experience, knowledge, and stories which are not just about you, but moreover, they are to help others. Yes, they will help others, either with a better understanding, a different view, or simply a knowledge they have yet to obtain. Embrace the changing of life as it brings us the different seasons to experience and share. It’s time for each of us to take greater hold of where we are going and where we want to be, in order, to make certain we are living life to the fullest. Imagine if your life was a color; what color would you be? Not your favorite color yet the color that would tell your story. As you are blending your life, your family, your friends, and your work, the best of you is brought to the surface for all to see. Think what colors are you shining outward to the world? Is it time to change something in your life, in your work or perhaps your surroundings? Only you can pick up the brush of your life and decide when it is time to change colors. You are creating the picture of your life and bringing it for us to share. I challenge you to be bold, to utilize bright colors that are clear to see, to be strong enough to share your story for us to learn from you, and finally have faith your story is exactly what someone else needs.
Livingthedreammagazine.com, Time means Changing Life
Holiday Vacation Hot Spots There are many great holiday vacation locales to choose from if you are planning a holiday trip. Whether you want a seaside resort or the hustle and bustle of a metropolis, the myriad of selections can be enticing. Beautiful vistas, seductive beaches, international cuisine, family fun, bright city night lights combined with destinations offering unique, spectacular ocean views, luxurious spa treatments, scenic golf and activities for kids. Here are some of the best Christmas vacations.
Travelers can plan a relaxing family Christmas in California where charming coastal towns offer a number of holiday events where you can visit unique museums, attractions, wineries and shops in Carmel-by-the-Sea, Monterey, Newport Beach, Healdsburg and other amazing places along the west coastline.
One of the best Christmas vacation destinations in the U.S.
Celebrate
the
holidays
surrounded by snow and ice at the
picturesque Manoir
Hovey in Quebec, Canada. If you are looking for a fairy tale spot, enjoy Holiday Brunch, a horsedrawn sleigh ride through the North Hatley village center, followed by s'mores by the fireplace. Le Hatley restaurant will treat you to a 4-course traditional festive dinner and a gourmet breakfast in the morning. Manoir Hovey is set on 20 wooded acres next to the scenic Lake Massawippi. There are many winter activities to choose from that the whole family can enjoy, including relaxing spa treatments, snowshoeing, a private cross-country ski trail, skating and downhill skiing.
There is something magical, otherworldly about the place!
Located on the Central Coast of Vietnam, Banyan Tree Lang Co is a luxury getaway with 49 spacious private villas, each with its own pool, perfect for relaxing in the sun and getting outdoor massages on the deck. Many of the villas are set on a hill above the ocean and offer incredible views from the bedrooms and living areas. The property offers a Sea Sports Center, Marine Lab, Fitness facilities, Yoga, nature and cultural tours. Take romantic walks along the shore or try a variety of water sports. Bathrooms offer deep soaking bath tubs surrounded by tropical plants. The Golf Club offers a Sir Nick Faldo-designed 18-hole, par-71 championship golf course surrounded by mountain and ocean views.
An idyllic locale!
Angsana Resort & Spa Bintan overlooks Tanjung Said Bay and the South China Sea located in the northwestern tip of Bintan Island, Indonesia,. The property has a stylish spa, calm tropical ambiance and attentive service. In addition to relaxing by the pool and getting pampered at the wellness center, guests can choose from a number of activities, including tennis, banana boat rides, Catamaran sailing, mountain biking, snorkeling, fishing and canoeing. Guests receive special privileges at the Banyan Tree Resort golf course. If you are planning a family trip, there is a Kid's Club for children ages 3 to 10.
Fun & Adventure for the family!
A winter vacation at Hotel Cristallo in Cortina, Italy, is filled with great skiing, gourmet food, romantic views and relaxing at the spa. Cortina is a famous European winter destination. Guests are accommodated in tastefully decorated rooms and suites with rustic touches. Each room has a Carrara marble bathroom with hydro massage tub, perfect for relaxing after a day out on the slopes.
Amenities include natural hypoallergenic latex mattresses, flat screen LCD television, jacuzzi tubs and high speed Wi-fi internet connection. In addition to downhill skiing, there is snowboarding,
cross-country
skiing,
sledding, snowshoeing, fitness and more. The wellness center has an indoor swimming pool, spa and gym.
Snowy Winter Wonderland!