Lexington Woman

VOL 4, NO 5

COMPLIMENTARY

CELEBRATING, MOTIVATING, AND EDUCATING

Real WOMEN

Cayce, Chapin, Columbia, Irmo, Lexington, West Columbia, and White Knoll

In this Issue

TM

18

26

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF Lori Samples Duncan ld@woman2woman.sc

MEDIA REPRESENTATIVE Theresa Adams adamsmedia1@gmail.com

CONTRIBUTING WRITERS Melissa Birdsong Dr. Tasha Boone Ruth Chapman Lori Samples Duncan Alex Fagan Jackie Grizzard Ashby Jones Shirley Keels Vicki Kelly Tim Loonam, DVM Mandy Rivers Tyler Ryan Pam Criscione Ubl Aubrey Woodard

11 A Favorite Holiday Dessert:

From the Editor 2 Happy Holidays!

Events

3 What’s Happening in Lexington?

Things We Love!

4 Things We Love about Lexington!

Let’s Talk

5 You Never Know What You’ll Find!

Popularity of flea markets increases during holidays

6 7 8 10

Going...Going...Gone Green!

Thank You Ramsey!

Tradition!

Simplify your Holidays!

COVER PHOTO Clark Berry Photography

DESIGN Melissa W. Morris

Pumpkin Cream Cheesecake

12 14 15

16

17

Mediterranean Café Cotton Grill Surviving the Holidays without Overcommitting Yourself!

A future Lexington woman to look for – Miss Aubrey Woodard 2010 Event Supporters – Thank You!

Celebrating the in You! 18 21 24 26 28

Survivor

The Pink Posse Bead Ladies of Dems Still writing her story...

Life is a true gift – cherish it!

Culinary Cards for Cancer 2010 Love for a Cure Tennis Tournament

Professional

30 32

33 34

Do You Have a Broken Nose?

There’s a New Scrapbook Store in Town!

The Eclectic House Who shouldn’t be buying a house right now?

Pets

PHOTOGRAPHY

36 Medical Lasers: It’s not all Star Wars!

Clark Berry Photography Cathy Lindner HollowTree Images

Health & Wellness

39 40

42

44

Woman 2 Woman Enterprises (803) 785-4475 711 East Main Street, Suite K2 Lexington, SC 29072

Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy of this publication. However, the publisher cannot assume responsibility for errors or omissions. No part of this book may be reproduced in any manner whatsoever without written permission. © 2010

Dealing with Holiday Stress One Woman’s Battle with

Alzheimer’s Disease Dr. Bert Oubre: A Doctor with a Purpose Living with Fibromyalgia – Why Should I Do Occupational/Physical Therapy?

47 Business & Web Directory 48 A Personal Note

34

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

From the Editor

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year…. When families are drawn together from their prospective corners of the world and life seem to slow down just a little. Our little ones have waited all year in anticipation of Christmas morning and before you know it, Thanksgiving leftovers will be gone and Christmas Eve will be here.

Christmas has always been my favorite holiday. More than the gifts and the beautiful twinkling lights, there is the real reason for the season. The celebration of the birth of Jesus makes December days alive with anticipation. The live Nativity at local churches, “ This Man Called Jesus” at Lake Murray Baptist Church. All of Lexington will be a little kinder to each other, maybe a little more generous to each other, all in the spirit of Christmas.

I hope this year you get to be with your family. I hope you enjoy every moment of the things that matter the most in life. Cherish every moment. Make a new memory with someone. Share the old ones.

My children always love to hear the stories of when I was a little girl. They seems fascinated that I was once little and unsuspecting like them. I remember that young girl. All of her ideas about the world were so naive. I sometimes wish I could go back and whisper in her ear, “Don’t worry so much about tomorrow, enjoy today. Appreciate who you are at this moment and keep working on who you want to be.”

Happy Holidays!

— Lexington Woman Magazine!

The last Christmas my father was alive I went home to see my mother and him, as I often did the last year of his life. We decided to go to Lake Lanier Islands in Buford Georgia. It is called “The Magical Night of Lights.” It is beautiful and well worth the trip if you are in the area anytime between Thanksgiving and New Years. We stopped on our way into the park and bought a bag of boiled peanuts. Daddy ate them and laughed. He held Colton our youngest at the time, in his lap (the speed limit is 5 miles an hour and it is a drive through event until you reach “Santa’s Workshop”.) This memory of my family with my parents is so precious to me, especially now that he is gone. I know he didn’t feel like going. He went for us. To give us another moment to treasure when he was gone, I am grateful for that.

This issue is special because it celebrates many things that many people love about the holidays. A special thanks to Ms. Jamie Blakely and her boys and girls from Oakgrove Elementary school for sharing their favorite holiday memories with us! This issue is also filled with the same commitment as every issue, to bring you the best of the best in Lexington businesses and Celebrate, Motivate and Educate, every Lexington woman and man…. (We know guys read it too). Please feel free to email us your comments and questions, we try very hard to respond and we always look forward to your feedback.

Let us know what you think about the businesses we have personally referred to you.

Have a Safe and Happy Holiday Season!

Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

John 1:14 And the Word became flesh, and dwelt among us, and we beheld His glory, glory as of the only begotten from the Father, full of grace and truth.

What’s

Events

Happening in Lexington?

Be a Secret Santa Paws Deadline for entries: Dec. 20

Our very own Secret Santa has sponsored the adoption of five adult dogs or cats in hopes of spreading love and joy this wonderful season. Please join in this event by nominating a friend, relative or neighbor to receive one of pets. Each pet will have had all vaccines and be spayed or neutered. We will provide a microchip, a PETS, Inc. identification tag and lifetime registration as well as 30 days of insurance. A panel of judges will review your letters. Include a description of the person or family you are nominating and the reasons you believe they should be chosen. You can nominate yourself or your children. Send nominations to PETS Inc., Attention: Secret Santa, PO Box 6394, West Columbia, SC 29171, email to Secret Santa at gail.petsinc@yahoo.com, or fax them to (803) 781-5681. Include your name and phone number. All applications will be kept confidential. www.petsinc.org

Noon Year’s Eve Ball Drop Dec. 31, 10am–2pm Monkey Joe’s, Lexington

Don’t forget about our Noon Year’s Eve ball drop. Celebrate the new year with your child at noon on December 31st.

Hours are 10am-2pm with the ball drop countdown at 12! www.monkeyjoes.com/Lexington

Lexington County School District One’s Partial Immersion Program January 12

Parents with children starting kindergarten in the 2011-2012 school year who are interested in the partial immersion program can enroll beginning January 12, 2011. Beginning in 5-year-old kindergarten, students in this program receive science and math instruction in either French or Spanish. They receive instruction in the other subject areas in English.

For more information, visit the district’s website and look for the “Partial Immersion” link under “Quick Links.” www.lexington1.net

Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam Friday, Jan. 14 – Saturday, Jan. 15, Colonial Life Arena

Advance Auto Parts Monster Jam®, starring the biggest performers on four wheels: Monster Jam monster trucks! The twelvefeet-tall, ten-thousand-pound machines will bring you to your feet, racing and ripping up a custom-designed track full of obstacles to soar over or smash through!

Monster Jam provides a massive night’s entertainment tailored perfectly for your family’s budget, and these colorful, largerthan-life beasts are sure to capture the hearts of both young and old. Buy your tickets today – call 1-877-4-TWC-TIX! www.coloniallifearena.com

Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Circus presents Barnum’s Funundrum Thursday, Feb. 3 – Sunday, Feb. 6, Colonial Life Arena

Ladies and Gentlemen...Children of All Ages... The Greatest Show On Earth just got Greater. This monumental, once in a lifetime event celebrates 200 years of P.T. Barnum, featuring 130 performers from six continents, almost 100,000 pounds of performing pachyderms, cowboys, pirates and mermaids, it’s a super-sized spectacle so massive you just can’t miss it... a celebration so big, it’s been 200 years in the making, and worth every second! Buy your tickets today – call 1-877-4-TWCTIX or visit their website! www.coloniallifearena.com

Disney Live! Mickey’s Magic Show Friday, Feb. 25 Colonial Life Arena

Abracadabra! It’s Disney Live! Presents Mickey’s Magic Show! Mickey, Minnie and a host of Disney friends come together with world-class magicians to perform magic from legendary Disney films right before your eyes. Mickey’s Magic Show is a whole new way to experience Disney Magic with your family. Buy your tickets today – call 1-877-4-TWC-TIX or visit their website! www.coloniallifearena.com

Congratulations to the Newlyweds!

Dr. Melissa Backman of White Knoll Dentistry recently married Dewayne Kaufholz. Congratulations from Lexington Woman!

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Things We Love!

Things We

H

Love About Lexington!

ere are some of the things we love about Lexington:

This Man Called Jesus This Man Called Jesus at Lake Murray Baptist Church. What a beautiful way to celebrate the season with your family! Check out their website at www.thismancalledjesus.org for dates and times.

The Mediterranean Café Grilled chicken and fresh grilled vegetables with a Greek salad from the Mediterranean Café in Lexington. A wonderful heart healthy Lunch. The best thing about eating lunch at the Mediterranean Café is leaving and feeling like working instead of wanting to take a nap!

See their article and ad on page 12.

Chapman’s Jewelry in Lexington!

Ask for the Palmetto bracelet. This is a great gift idea for just $25. See their ad on page 8.

Doctor’s Without Borders These are real doctors who give their time and talents to help those who are underserved in other

countries as well as our own. Thank you Dr. Oubre of Lexington SC for being one of those doctors!

Learn more about Dr. Oubre on page 42.

Kicks Exceptional Shoes Check out all the great new boots and fall fashion. We love, love, love this shoe store, and we love price points for EVERY budget! Visit their store at The Shoppes at Flight Deck in Lexington or on Devine Street in Columbia.

The Cotton Grill Try the Shrimp and Grits or a bowl of She Crab Stew at the Cotton Grill at the Old Mill in Lexington. It’s great for a quiet business lunch, or a romantic dinner for two...

Check out the recipe for Potato Gratin by their own chef, Jason Palmer on page 14.

Cho on Main Street Gift Certificates!!!

give and receive! Visit Cho On Main in Lexington to pick up a certificate for someone special on your shopping list!

Personalized Things For You Find great gifts with a personal touch, and check out the new graphics they have. You can have wall art made for your home or a personalized family photo album. One of our favorites is the monogrammed necklaces. Personalized Things For You is located in The Old Mill in Lexington.

Visit www.personalizedthingsforyou.com for more information!

Lighting of the Christmas Tree See the lighting of the Christmas tree in downtown Columbia at the State House. What a landmark year for this event, as the newly elected Nikki Haley will become the first female governor in the state of South Carolina.

We can use them for the fabulous accessories, our nails, permanent makeup, or a new “do” or a new color!!! This is a gift we love to

And last but certainly not least...

One of our very favorite things this holiday season is Jesus, the real reason for the season!!!!!

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Real Women

9/29/10 3:26:49 PM

Let’s Talk

My Favorite Holiday...

I like to tear open presents at Christmastime.

– Timothy

My favorite Christmas was when we moved to a new house with a chimney so Santa Claus can come down and bring us presents.

No chimneys makes his magic run out quick you know.

– Tessa F.

My favorite was when we went to an inside swimming pool after we ate lots and lots of turkey!

– Josh H.

My favorite Christmas was when I got a remote control airplane.

– Joey

My favorite Christmas was when Santa Claus brought me a Barbie doll!

– Tori L.

I like to eat broccoli and lots of chicken with my whole entire family for holidays.

– James

You Never Know what You’ll Find!

Popularity of flea markets increases during holidays

“I

t’s not just shopping, it’s a cultural event,” says one eager browser on a Saturday morning at the Barnyard Flea Market. She is shopping in the front of the market under enclosed walkways where holiday decorations call. “I see about a thousand fun things for stocking stuffers and they cost a lot less than at some department store.”

Flea markets are a slice of American life still alive and well in this flat economy. Unlike big box stores and malls with set prices, aisles of cookiecutter products and disinterested sales staff, flea markets are a social event where shoppers can exercise a keen eye for value and hone their bargaining skills. There is an easy give and take with vendors who are eager to relay the interesting stories behind their antiques, classic toys, record albums and rare books.

For some shoppers flea markets are stroll down memory lane. Often you hear, “My grandmother had one just like that,” or “I had that when I was a kid.” A family shopping experience, flea markets provide the opportunity for older family members to share their younger days with their children and grandchildren.

But of course, the biggest lure is the perfect flea market find. The Barnyard Flea Market offers an immense variety of products—antiques, air soft guns, fresh produce, pet supplies, blue jeans, fishing tackle, leather NFL jackets, classic car models, cast-iron cookware, cell phone accessories, knives, hunting equipment, sweatshirts, bunk beds, decorative plants, children’s clothing, tools, handbags, audio equipment, cooking utensils, bentwood rockers and even headstones. Barnyard Flea Market makes it easy to decorate for the holidays and stuff a stocking on a budget. Lowcost items to fill a family’s stockings this Christmas include socks, matchbox cars, candles, posters, trading cards, wallets, handmade soap and jars of jams and jellies. The options are as open as a shopper’s imagination.

People view flea markets as adventures, a way to find less commercial, more meaningful items, particularly during the holidays. A few tips for

novices that will make the casual, family-friendly atmosphere of flea market shopping a pleasurable experience are: Make a list. Take measurements for big items like furniture. Bring a measuring tape to make sure purchases will fit, as there is generally a no return policy with vendors. Enjoy the thrill of the hunt!

Bring cash. While ATM service is provided, having adequate cash allows for better negotiations.

Be friendly with vendors and show interest, but don’t make an offer so low that it is insulting.

Arrive early for best selection. It is true that later in the day may make for better bargaining with vendors, but morning shopping guarantees a wider variety of quality products.

Plan ahead to transport purchases. Delicate items or furniture require boxes, blankets and possibly rope to secure treasures for the ride home.

Be open. While focus and a list can help accomplish a particular goal, a flea market experience is about having fun and expecting the unexpected.

You never know what you’ll find!

The Barnyard Flea Market is a fun alternative to the hassle and high cost of holiday shopping in malls and department stores. The Barnyard Flea Market offers free parking, wide spacious aisles, covered walkways, clean restrooms and a canteen. The Barnyard Flea Market in Lexington has more than 120,000 square feet of covered shopping with more than 500 unique vendors. Visit http://barnyardfleamarkets.com to learn more.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Going...Going...

Gone Green!

by Tyler Ryan

I

t’s not uncommon the see the green lights of the Holiday Inn & Suites brightly shining in the evening as you get on I26 near the Lexington Medical Center. But the green you see shining from this brand new full service hotel takes on a whole new meaning when you sit down and talk with Raven Yonemura, Director of Marketing Communications.

The first thing you see in Raven, when she shows you around this new property, is the pride

she had in all the extra steps that owner Hema Patel took in its creation. Ms. Patel has been in the industry for thirty years, and through “sheer hard work,” created with her Husband Sudhir, a company that has built and operated about twelve properties. The Holiday Inn & Suites is the first green full service property of its scale in the area.

“She took this (project) on passionately,” Raven says. Coming from a background in education, Ms. Patel has built a “niche in the hospitality industry.” This may be the first “green” property, but Ms. Patel has extensive experience building and operating hotels from the ground up. The next step in her American Dream is recycling distressed properties. With the vision of what could be in a property, and the people who once

made it successful, she is looking to go in and turn those opportunities back into success stories.

On the tour, I learned that the fabrics on the lobby furniture are all made from sustainable materials.

The chairs by the pool? Recycled milk cartons.

The privacy screens that separate a nice seating area from the general lobby? They were once aluminum cans. Solar panels. Water catchers to utilize rain. The air vent system. The list goes on and on, all putting the hotel on track for a LEED Gold certification.

There are other touches that stand out in the design of the property. If you are curious about the odd shaped pool, it’s design is such that at all

Unwind after a long day at the Holiday Inn Hotel & Suites Columbia - Airport. Our eco-friendly design offers relaxing features such as our saltwater filtered pool and comfortable furniture made from sustainable materials. Wrap up with a good book and some Green Forest Alliance coffee in our café lounge or enjoy the comforts of room service and a late night dessert through our Sporting News Grill restaurant. No matter how you choose to unwind you can slip between the sheets of our signature bedding and count on a good night’s sleep.

Columbia - Airport

• • • •

Sporting News Grill Restaurant Saltwater filtered pool Cardio Fitness Center Wired & Wireless Internet

• • • •

24 Hour Sundry Shop Business Center & Board Room Meeting & Banquet Facility Free Airport Shuttle

FOLLOW:

Located just off I-26 at exit 110 (Hwy 378) 110 McSwain Drive, West Columbia, SC 29169 | Tel: 803.391.4000 | Fax: 803.391.4001 | www.holidayinn.com/westcolumbia

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Let’s Talk

The Holiday Inn & Suites is the first green full service property of its scale in the area. times during the day, there are parts that are shaded. Who would have thought?

Aside from its green design, I asked Raven what sets the new Holiday Inn apart from the other hotels in the area and she was quick to respond with the staff. The hotel, which includes a full service restaurant, called the Sporting News Grill, employs about fifty people from the area. Ms. Patel demands from her staff that the guests are taken care of in a manor beyond what they expect. “People aren’t impressed with what they expect,” says Raven. “It’s when the overall service goes above and beyond that makes a memorable experience for the guest and that is what brings guests back to us.” “(The staff) is personal and down to earth.”

There was once something called the Golden Rule. Sales Manager Julie Head is happy to report that the concept and belief is alive and well within the walls of the Holiday Inn & Suites. “Nine out of ten comment cards that are left make a reference to a guest’s interaction with a staff member.” Certainly a statistic Raven and Julie are proud of.

The philosophy of Raven and the hotel is not only to be responsible to the resources of the planet, true to their guests, but also to be a member of the community. Even in the construction, Ms. Patel looked to the local community first in finding contractors, builders, and service providers before seeking for such services outside the area. There in a commitment that is clear when you talk to her, that it’s more than a place for a weary traveler to rest their head for 8 hours. She said with a smile that people walk in and say “this is a Holiday Inn?” It sure is.

The new eco-friendly Holiday Inn & Suites Columbia-Airport is located at I26 and 378, beside the Lexington Medical Center, and offers not only overnight accommodations, but has a large grand ballroom, community rooms, and a full service restaurant that even has Wednesday karaoke night.

Thank You Ramsey

by Pam Criscione Ubl

L

ike so many young women of her generation, Ramsey Criscione Goodman juggles a daunting schedule. A music-major graduate of the University of South Carolina, she teaches chorus and drama at Swansea High School and the 9th Grade Academy. At home, she attends to the needs of two beautiful and active young daughters, Tinsley, 16-months and Elliot, 3 and husband Trent.

But those responsibilities have not diminished her commitment to her community or to her extended family. Ramsey is the daughter of the late Jay Criscione, LCRAC’s visionary Director. Her family’s struggle with Cancer has been challenging by any measure. Not only did her father succumb to his struggle in 2009, her Uncle, Jay’s brother Richard lost his battle with Leukemia in 2007, and her Aunt, Paulette Criscione, is the co-founder of Chemo with Style, and a breast cancer survivor.

played a vital volunteer role in both the recent Love for a Cure tournament, and Culinary Cards for a Cure. Paulette Criscione says: “Fund raising can’t be accomplished without the selfless efforts of volunteers, and Ramsey continues to be one of our most dedicated.”

‘The world is hugged by the faithful arms of volunteers.’

Ramsey regularly donates her time to the causes and efforts that help others in Lexington who are waging their fights with Cancer. She is a regular volunteer in the enormously popular fashion show fundraiser for Chemo with Style. There she works anonymously, largely behind the scenes, replenishing food trays, cleaning up, and generally helping to keep things flowing. And Ramsey

Her commitment to her family and its history and traditions are so great that she recently made the trip to New York to attend a reunion of her large extended Italian-American and visited the family’s ancestral homestead.

Someone said: “The world is hugged by the faithful arms of volunteers.” Ramsey Criscione is a woman of petite stature, but she manages to wrap her arms around not only those she knows and loves, but also many she has never met, but whose challenges she understands and embraces in a very personal way.

Ramsey with daughters Tinsley and Elliot www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

Let’s Talk

Tradition!

I

by Ruth Chapman

f you have ever seen the play Fiddler on the Roof, you should sing the title of this piece with gusto! To those of you who have not seen it, I highly recommend it. I’m talking about tradition. And during the holiday season we all have our favorite traditions.

You should not end the holiday season without seeing It’s a Wonderful Life, with Jimmy Stewart and his angel friend, Clarence, at least once. I dare you to watch it without shedding a tear of joy at the end.

How much fun would it be to host a party with the express purpose of watching this movie? Or perhaps seeing Miracle on 34th Street in which Kris Kringle, affectionately known as Santa Claus, goes on trial because his sanity is in doubt.

These are two must see, feel good movies to watch during the holidays. Perhaps watching one of these movies is already your family’s tradition.

usually something we had just been given for Christmas and we loaded into the car to attend noon Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church, our family church. My grandparents, known by their Lebanese names as Sitty and Ghiddy, lived on the corner of Blossom and Bonham Streets in the Shandon area of Columbia, directly behind the church. We would park in their driveway and walk through the house smelling the wonderful aromas coming from the kitchen, walking through the dining room, then the living room, pause

We would barely have time to open our presents, when we were told to ‘Get dressed, it’s time for church.’

As for our family’s tradition, since I was a little girl we always had the same custom.

My brother and I got up on Christmas morning to run into the den to see what Santa and Mrs. Claus had brought. One year, according to my Mom, Mrs. Claus made me a beautiful long dress, and it was hanging from the dining room chandelier. This was back in the 1970s when long dresses, now called maxi dresses, were in style. I felt extremely proud to wear something that Mrs. Claus herself had designed. We would barely have time to open our presents, when we were told to “Get dressed, it’s time for church.” We then quickly dressed in our best outfits,

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

C

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903 North Lake Drive, Lexington to awe at the Christmas tree and then walk right out the front door, down the sidewalk and across the street to church.

After an hour long Mass (sometimes shorter, because they only said Mass and dispensed with the sermon except to say ‘Merry Christmas’, our best gift of the day to a child itching to get out of church) we headed back across the street. By the time we got out of church, the rest of the family, aunts, uncles and cousins, had assembled and it was time for the meal.

My Sitty would have been working on this Christmas feast for weeks, making sure to have at least one of each person’s favorite dishes, including in later years,

Real Women

(look for the black awning)

www.thechapmancompany.com

Madison Oswald, Pleasant Hill Middle School

Let’s Talk my non-Lebanese husband. She was an expert at preparation and execution. She prepared many traditional Lebanese favorites and would freeze them, so that on Christmas morning, her chores were minimal. More than likely one of her grandchildren would have assembled her Christmas tree with all hand-made ornaments and her most beautiful Nativity scene some weeks prior to The Big Day. She would have set and decorated the table in the dining room as well as the table in the kitchen for the kids the day before so that when we arrived, everything was set.

She would get up early on Christmas morning and attend the 8:00 a.m. service so that she had everything ready for the big ravenous crowd that would join her later.

We would all hold hands in a large circle and say the traditional Catholic blessing, “Bless us oh Lord…” and then grab a plate to serve ourselves, buffet style. When I was really young, the table was set with the food for passing and everyone could sit together. But as the family grew, we made the switch to buffet style and two tables. There was more food than twice the size of our family could ever eat and we always marveled at the men’s plates always overflowing with gravy poured over everything.

There were American traditional foods, such as turkey, rice and gravy and cranberry sauce; as well as Lebanese traditional foods such as kibbie, grape leaves and meat pies. Sometimes, Sitty would fix leg of lamb, which she told Ghiddy was roast beef, so he would eat it. I don’t think I was ever brave enough to try it, which is something I have always regretted. No one could cook like my Sitty!

Once we were completely stuffed to the gills, the men would adjourn to the den for football watching and the women went to the kitchen to talk while straightening. Sitty’s two daughters, my Aunts Alice

and Anita, always shared the dish washing chores. Even though she had a dishwasher, we were using the good china and crystal and it needed to be hand washed. With all of the helpers, though, drying and putting away dispensed with quickly.

Sometimes extended family would drop in for a quick visit or a bite of dessert. Finally, the big moment had arrived and it was time to pass out the presents. My Uncle Alfred, the comedian of the family, would don the traditional red Santa hat and with reading glasses perched on his nose, would pass out the gifts usually with a large smile and a helper or two. We would tear into the gifts lickety split and my mother always tried to slow us down so that she could see what we had been given and who the giver was.

Around 3 or 4 in the afternoon, we packed up all the boxes, along with a plate or two of leftovers, passed around hugs and kisses, all while my father was in the car honking the horn for us to hurry up. My Mom was usually the last one out, saying goodbye to her in-laws. Finally, time to go home and bask in the glory of our new things.

This is the tradition I recall most vividly from my childhood. I’ll bet you have a tradition all your own.

Perhaps it’s not elaborate, maybe it’s just a simple meal or attendance at your favorite place of worship, or serving a meal to those less fortunate than we; but whatever it is, I hope that you will appreciate the Season and remember why we celebrate, whatever your tradition may be.

May the peace of Christ be with you always. Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from our family to yours.

Visit The Chapman Company Fine Jewelers at 903 North Lake Drive in Lexington.

Congratulations Lexington High School Swim Team!

The team won the 2010 4A Swimming State Championship.

Congratulations to the Ozone State Champs!

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Let’s Talk

Simplify your HOLIDAYS!

by Jackie Grizzard

owner of Clutter Free Bug

I

t’s the most wonderful time of the year!”

Meanwhile…

Who’s coming for the Holidays?

What will I serve?

The guest room needs cleaning!

Where’s the Christmas tree going?

More TOYS? Look at all this clutter!

Menu’s

Start gathering addresses now. If your family gets together for Thanksgiving, use that day to take your holiday photo. It doesn’t have to be formal.

Have a friend or neighbor snap some fun pictures of your family in your backyard or inside your home.

Write out three days worth of menu’s from breakfast to dinner. Purchase as many groceries in advance as possible so you make less trips to the grocery store and you know what you’re serving.

Holiday Décor

Does that sound like you or someone you know?

These tips from Clutter Free Bug will help you get better prepared, more organized, and clutter free for the Holidays.

Holiday Location Find out who’s coming, and for how long. What kind of sleeping arrangements need to be made?

First pick a spot for the tree. Decorate your entire home or only the living areas and entry ways.

Keep it simple and elegant.

Gift Lists Some families pull one name from a hat and others like buying gifts for everyone. Save money by making gift certificates for things that you can DO for them like a foot massage, or cook their favorite dinner. Gifts don’t have to be expensive or cost money; they just have to be meaningful!

photo by HollowTree Images

Guest Room Think of a hotel. You need a bed, clean bedding, night table, good lighting, a closet with hangers, and maybe a TV. Don’t have a guest room? Use partitions to section off a spot in an office, toy room or living area so your guest can sleep, make a phone call or take a quick nap.

Holiday Cards

These tips from Clutter Free Bug will help you get better prepared, more organized, and clutter free for the Holidays.

Guest Bath Prep your guest bathroom with soaps, towels, tissue, shampoo and conditioner, shaving items, toothpaste, toothbrushes and non fragrant lotions.

10

Jackie Grizzard

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Crews Ask family members which “crew” they want to sign up for. Assign a crew for set up (set table, chairs, decorations, music, etc.) and a crew for clean up (clear table, load dishwasher, etc.).

Family Fun Save money by visiting parks, playing games or going to the movies. Eat your big meals at home and enjoy some ice-cream as a treat.

Toys More toys are coming! For every new toy received, get rid of an old one. Ask yourself “what is my child really playing with?” and “how much of this stuff has become invisible?”.

The Holidays are about spending time with loved ones. Plan now to avoid stress and enjoy the Season.

Happy Holidays from Clutter Free Bug!

Clutter Free Bug is a Professional Organizing Service.

We help people and families simplify their lives by decluttering and getting organized. What is your home saying about you? What is it doing to you? Call for a FREE needs assessment. Jackie (813) 966-1223.

A FAVORITE

Holiday DESSERT

Let’s Talk

by Melissa Birdsong

Pumpkin Cream Cheesecake lngredients for the Crust:

1½ cups graham crackers ¼ cup gingersnap cookies 2 tbsp. butter, melted For the Filling: 5 (8 ounce) packages cream cheese, softened 1¾ cups sugar 3 tablespoons all-purpose flour 6 eggs 1 tablespoon vanilla extract 2 tablespoons apple pie spice (Yes, APPLE pie spice) 1 can (15 ounces) pumpkin

Garnish: Icing of your choice, praline pecans or marshmallows are all excellent choices for this cake. You can also decorate with baked, spiced pumpkin seeds.

Directions: Preheat oven to 500 degrees F. Combine graham crackers, gingersnaps and butter in a medium bowl. Press into the bottom and 1-inch up the side of a 10-inch nonstick springform pan. Set aside.

Beat cream cheese and sugar until smooth. Add flour. Slowly add eggs, one at a time. Add vanilla. Add pumpkin pie spice and pumpkin. Blend until smooth.

photography by Clark Berry Photography

Place a pan filled with water on the lower rack of your oven.

Bake cheesecake at 500 degrees F for 10 minutes then reduce temperature to 200 degrees F and bake for 1 hour, 30 minutes.

Run a knife around top of cake to loosen from pan. Open oven door (with oven off) to allow cake to cool gradually for 20 to 30 minutes. Remove from oven and continue to cool on a rack for one hour. Place in the refrigerator overnight.

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11 11

Let’s Talk

Mediterranean Café

by Mandy Rivers

E

veryone’s had a Greek salad.

Any restaurant with even a semblance of Mediterranean heritage serves one. You may have eaten your share of Greek salads but you’ve likely never had one that compares to the one served at Mediterranean Café in Lexington. Made from vegetables grown locally right here in Lexington that burst in your mouth with justpicked fresh flavor, a dressing that is the perfect combination of lemon juice and olive oil (not too acidic as is the case with many Greek dressings) and feta so creamy it melts on your tongue.

And that’s just the side salad. The salad also comes as an entrée served with tuna, chicken breast or shrimp all marinated and grilled perfectly. In addition to five-star salads and popular Greek entrées and pasta, the menu also boasts authentic Mediterranean selections such as tabbouleh, hummus, baba ghannouj and falafel.

This Lexington woman was pleased to see the children’s menu featured, instead of processed

Lunch Monday - Friday 11:30am - 2:30pm Sunday 11am - 2pm

A heart-healthy dish fried chicken nuggets or instant macaroni and cheese, marinated and grilled chicken kabobs and fresh pita pizza.

able for lunch also and they feature an impressive vegetarian selection with dishes like eggplant pita pizza and mijadarah.

The lunch menu is just as impressive as the dinner menu, featuring pita wraps such as the Spinach and Feta Wrap made with sautéed spinach, extra virgin olive oil, garlic, fresh lemon juice, spices and feta. For sandwiches, choose from falafel, gyro, grilled chicken and kofta burgers (on-premises seasoned ground beef and lamb burger topped with hummus, tomato and cucumber). Many of their dinner entrées are avail-

Aside from the refreshingly delicious and skilled preparation, there is another reason to pencil Mediterranean Café into your schedule...it’s healthy!

Chocked full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, beans, seeds and red wine, Mediterranean cuisine provides thousands of micronutrients, antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals that can

Dinner Monday - Thursday 5:30pm - 9:00pm Friday & Saturday 5:30pm - 9:30pm

Take out available • Banquet Room (seats up to 40 people)

(803) 356-6294 12

Reservation recommended for parties larger than 6

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

www.medcafelexsc.com • 327 West Main Street • Lexington

...there is another reason to pencil Mediterranean Café into your schedule...it’s healthy!

Azmi Jebali help protect against cancer, heart disease, diabetes, obesity and Alzheimer’s disease.

“Research continues to demonstrate that being physically active and eating a nutritious diet of primarily whole foods that are filling and satisfying can enable people to control weight, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, reduce risk of diabetes, heart disease and Alzheimer’s disease, and basically protect against chronic diseases,” says cardiologist Arthur Agatston, MD, creator of the South Beach Diet, based on the Mediterranean diet model.

According to a study published in The New England Journal of Medicine in 2003, it may not be the individual foods themselves, but the interaction or synergy between all the foods that leads to the health benefits.

“A Mediterranean diet is high in fiber, which slows down digestion, preventing wild swings in blood sugar; reduces insulin resistance (a precursor of type 2 diabetes); and improves insulin sensitivity to reduce obesity and type 2 diabetes,” says Agatston.

When you think of Mediterranean cuisine, you may picture Europeans leisurely dining on meals of fish, vegetables, fruits, olives, and crusty whole-grain bread dunked

in olive oil, along with a glass of wine sitting on some sun-drenched portico overlooking the sea. Imagine, instead, yourself sitting in the tastefully decorated, cozy dining room or open-air breezily shaded patio at Mediterranean Café right here in Lexington.

Azmi Jebali, who, together with his wife Beth, own Mediterranean Café tells us that the whole grains, fresh produce, wine, fish, garlic and olive oil lend themselves to a healthy lifestyle as well as their cooking methods. Azmi, also the head chef, says that most of his dishes are healthy too because they are broiled and grilled verses the deep frying that is so common in American restaurant fare.

Lorri and Brent Yarborough of Lexington took a moment to talk with us at the restaurant after finishing their meal. The Yarboroughs and their sons say they eat at Mediterranean Café an average of once a week. Lorri told us, “If I’m going to eat out, it’s going to be here.” And based on her beautiful skin and healthy appearance, it seems to be doing her good!

Our evening at Mediterranean Café wrapped up with Lexington Woman, the Yarboroughs, Azmi himself and two other regulars, Andy and Debbie White all sitting family-style around a few tables sharing a bottle of red wine. It was a very enjoyable evening and it felt very, well…. Mediterranean!

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk

Cotton Grill

by Mandy Rivers

N

estled in the heart of downtown Lexington in the historic Old Mill is the Cotton Grill. Upon entering Cotton Grill, the first thing that catches your attention is the casually elegant décor and atmosphere of the restaurant.

Featuring a full-service bar with a luxury hotel feel, enchanting waterfront dining, exposed beam ceilings, dazzling lighting, walls peppered with vibrant local art and exposed brink, and tables dressed in white linens, Cotton Grill offers a truly unique fine dining experience in Lexington. Even more impressive than the atmosphere is the menu.

Chef Jason Palmer, a classical French trained chef brings a handcrafted, gourmet element to the “southern grill” selections. Laban Chappell, co-owner, tells us about recently revamping the menu. The goal was to allow Chef Jason to put together a perfect menu featuring classic entrees, fresh seafood and choice grill selections crafted from his expert culinary background and expertise.

The recently updated dinner menu features appetizers such as fried green tomatoes, jumbo lump crab cakes, black rope mussels, pan fried chicken livers and crab ravioli (handmade daily by Chef Jason). Choose Atlantic salmon, bacon-wrapped fillet, barbeque rubbed hanger steak or roasted duck breast and leg confit just to name a few. Entrees include the likes of vodka salmon linguine,

jumbo lump crab cakes, seared sea scallops, tenderloin tip pasta and bouillabaisse.

Cotton Grill is also open for lunch and features a Sunday Brunch with selections such as crab cake eggs benedict, eggs florentine, shrimp and grits, buttermilk fried chicken and ribeye steak with eggs.

For the ambiance, quality of food and selection, the prices were surprisingly reasonable. From the dinner menu, the appetizers range from $6-$9 and entrees from $12-$23.

Reservations are not required but recommended for Thursday through Saturday nights. Cotton Grill also offers accommodations for large parties with their Charleston Room that seats up to forty guests or their screened porch overlooking the mill lake that can seat up to sixty guests.

Also interesting about Cotton Grill are their efforts to operate a sustainable restaurant. They have teamed up with local green businesses such as Tomato Palms for recycling. Their to-go containers are made of sugar cane and are 100% biodegradable.

They are in the research stages of

creating a compost system for the restaurant’s herb garden. They also subscribe to the Monterrey Bay Aquarium Seafood Watch’s recommendations when selecting seafood.

The Seafood Watch is a guide which recommends which seafood to buy or avoid based on mercury and other toxicities as well as the current demand on particular species to ensure healthy bounties in the future.

They also feature a beautiful fullservice bar great for relaxing or entertaining after work. In addition to $3 martinis (any time), they feature a full martini menu that’s sure to have something for everyone.

For Lexington, Cotton Grill is the only restaurant of this caliber. The ambiance and atmosphere are practically indulgent in themselves, offering a very special somethingsomething while maintaining a comfortable and casual feel. Add to that the exquisitely prepared food and perfectly created menu and you having something not often found locally. Owners Laban Chappell and Craig and Ryan Condon wanted to create a unique dining experience, and they’ve done just that.

Kitchen Corner with Cotton Grill Chef Jason Palmer

I’ve found the following dish to go very well over the holiday season with either a nice lamb chop or a beef roast. I hope you find it delicious as well. If you have any questions or comments, you can always reach me at the restaurant at (803) 957-1996 or online at www.cottongrill.com

Potato Gratin 12 peeled and sliced potatoes 1 cup mascarpone 1 quart cream ½ T garlic minced ½ T shallots diced 2 T herb mix (parsley, thyme, rosemary) 3 cups shredded parmesan 4 eggs 2 cups fine bread crumbs TT salt and pepper (heavy flavoring) Whisk eggs till combined, add cream, cheeses, herbs and savories. Fold together and mix well. Add potatoes and mix thoroughly. Butter baking dish and fill with mixture. Press to release air, top with bread crumbs, cover with plastic then foil and let sit for 30 minutes so it will not bubble and come out soupy. Bake at 375 for 1 hour and 45 minutes. Let stand for 30 minutes and brown top before serving. Serve with wine, Cheers!

Charleston Room

Private Dining Room Seats up to 40 people Fully customized menus to fit your budget

Dinner for Two Menu $30

Monday through Wednesday Choice of soup & salads, entrees & shared dessert

Full Menu and more at www.cottongrill.com

(803) 957-1996

711 East Main St • Lexington (located at The Old Mill)

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

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Selection of Batch Bourbons and Highly Distilled Vodkas Four Course Wine Pairing Dinner Menus

Let’s Talk

Surviving the Holidays without OVERCOMMITING YOURSELF

by Alex Fagan

O

h, the holidays, they are here again and bring with them the inviting smells, the endless food, the family, the friends, the friends of friends and friends of family and family friends. The holidays are a blur because we over commit and deny ourselves an actual holiday. Instead of spending quality time with a select few we choose quantity time with, well, everyone. But survival is possible. And it starts with stopping.

Give me a moment to unpack that statement.

Anyone can tell you that survival, real survival, calls for a manual. The same is true for the Holidays. Sometime before Thanksgiving try to sit, stop, and plan for the month of mayhem that is fast approaching. Keep a calendar. This is not optional if you want to survive. A calendar is the best tool available in the battle against over commitments. Double booking becomes obvious when trying to cram too many things in a little numbered square. Knowing the when and where will also reduce the stress of trying to keep track of everything in your head. It is imperative to be wise in deciding what actually gets to make it onto the calendar. Cuts need to be made.

Another key to survival is committing to the right things. Commit to family, to decorating and to parties, to baking and to volunteering. It has become cliché and trite to say but it is more blessed to give than receive. We cannot survive by being selfish. Volunteering is an excellent way to build closer family and community bonds. Try also to prioritize your commitments and understand that another trick to survival is one we tell kids all the time, “Just Say No”. While drugs are not the focus of resistance in this case, some parties and people can be just as bad for our health. I risk sounding rude by saying this, but you don’t have

to make your 3rd cousin’s drop in a priority. Family is important, but it’s ok if priority levels lessen the further you branch out on the tree. Another good rule of measure: If the only invite comes through Facebook, know that your presence is entirely optional.

When saying no, a good excuse is to blame the economy, everyone else does. If you are strapped for cash do not break the bank just because it’s a holiday. Over commitments apply not only to attending too many parties, but to our finances as well. It is hard to resist the urge to shower loved ones with pricey gifts. Yet, the simplest gifts though are often the best. A handwritten note or homemade ornament will ultimately hold more value than a 5th Generation iPod Touch that will be outdated next September. There is nothing wrong in buying nice gifts, just make sure that in doing so you are not adding excess stress and financial strain. If anyone questions your frugal actions, patiently explain to them that you are waiting for Detroit to pay you back. For those already stressing about the financial burden, I refer you to Philippians 4:19.

At the end of the day simply allow your holiday to be a holiday. We need rest and we need to remove ourselves at times. We live stressful and demand-

ing lives and this time is built to be a break from that, a time to refresh and renew at the dawn of a new year. Find comfort in your family and your many blessings. Give thanks and rejoice for those that are with you. The little things that so often consume our days will take care of themselves;

At the end of the day simply allow your holiday to be a holiday. remember “Do not worry… Who of you by worrying can add a single hour to his life?” (Matthew 6:25-27) This holiday season approach the days knowing that you are fully and unconditionally loved. He is the one it is all about anyway, right?

Now go put on your helmet and strap in. Happy Holidays Ladies!

A veteran of 22 Christmases, Alex is currently pursuing a Masters in Youth Development Leadership at Clemson University. www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Let’s Talk

A future Lexington woman to look for – Miss Aubrey Woodard!

W

Aubrey

“Mom…I don’t want to go!” I told her as she packed me and my six year old sister into the small red Corolla. I pleaded with her, but she wouldn’t hear of it.

Deep down I really did want to go and see everyone, but I was dreading my Uncle Steve, who always told me the story of Eddie, the guy who lived under the lake house dock. Every year he told me that if you get too close to the water he’ll drown you dead, but he was always fun to mess with.

There was this one Christmas where Uncle Bob had brought Belle, his old yeller dog to the lake house. Belle snuck into the kitchen and took that whole chicken right off the counter without anyone knowing.

She ran off, so Olivia and I started hollerin’ and yellin’ until the whole house was chasing after that dadgum dog. We had cornered her on the dock where she had sat down and was trying to swallow the thing whole. Belle was gagging and coughing and you could tell she was bent on eating that whole dang chicken. We had her cornered, but still she still tried to get away. She jumped right off the dock and into the freezing water! The chicken sunk and we all just about fell in with her from laughing so hard. That evening after our sparse Christmas feast, we all gathered in the living room to open our presents.

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Tristan-My favorite Christmas was when Popaw bought me new Star Wars..

– Tristan

hen we considered publishing another young writer, we asked a young lady who a little birdie told us was an avid reader and great story teller to submit something to Lexington Woman for consideration. Aubrey is a student at Carolina Springs Middle School in the 8th grade. Her submission made us laugh out loud! We wanted to share it with you guys. Please email us your feedback as Aubrey’s dream is to be an author when she is older. We promise to share your thoughts with this very intelligent young lady. Enjoy a short version Aubrey’s Christmas Tale.

Read the article in it’s entirety on our website at www. lexingtonwomanonline.com.

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My Favorite Holiday....

Real Women

After all the “real” presents are opened and paper scattered everywhere, we start with number drawings for everyone in the family. One year, the presents got mixed up, and Uncle Bob opened a present containing old lady underwear everyone started laughing. This is only for the adults but us kids stick around a while just to see a few of those gag gifts. That year someone had wrapped up a snake in-the-box (It’s a jack-in-the-box except that the jack is a snake) and my great grandma Nana got it. When that rubber thing flew outta that box she threw the thing across the room and broke a window. When everything quiets down, my uncle Steve reads the Christmas story from the Bible, it is so peaceful. This is a time of reflection and remembering why we celebrate the birth of our Savior. All the craziness that surrounded that day seems to drift away into oblivion and only the important things remain. A time to realize how truly blessed we are in our family.

The next day rolls around and and I say “Mom…I don’t want to leave!” I told her as she packed me and Cassidy into the small red, Toyota Corolla and we sat in the car while Dad finished loading everything up. “Please Mom!” I pleaded with her but she wouldn’t hear of it.

Know a young lady who should be featured here?

Please email your submissions to ld@woman2woman.sc for consideration in our next issue.

My favorite Christmas was my surprise blue and pink bike present.

– Taijah

My favorite Christmas was when I opened my very own police car. It is pretty cool.

– David

My favorite thing to do at Christmas is to wake Mommy and Daddy up really early and go find my presents, especially Hot Wheels tracks.

– Matt

My favorite thing about Christmas is all the beautiful lights everywhere, and everyone is very nice to everyone. That makes me so happy.

– Aliyah

My favorite Christmas was when I got a “Sleeping Beauty” Barbie doll. We play cards at Christmas with all my family too.

That is so much fun.

– Stephie

I love it because I see everybody in my family. We have fun!

– Reagan

Let’s Talk

2010 Event Supporters – Thank You!

L

exington Woman would like to thank all of the following businesses who have generously supported our joint efforts with Chemo with Style and Alala Cancer Society over this past year:

Culinary Cards for Cancer • Alala, LLC • The Backyard Café • Beautiful Nails • Belk Cosmetics • The Bistro • Bliss Salon & Spa • Bogart’s • Bosom Buddies • Brittany Holland Photos • Café Strudel • Chemo with Style Volunteers • Clark Berry Photography • Coca Cola Bottling Co. • Chiropractic Equipment Maintenance

• The Cotton Grill • Crystal Clean Janitorial • Day Break Adult Care Services • Dems Jewelry • The Eclectic House • The Going Commando Band • Hand-Made Crafts and Jewelry • Hospice Care of Tri-County • Hospice Care of Tri-County Marketing

• Hospice Care of Tri-County Volunteers

• K & M Photography, LLC • Kovachi’s • Lexington County Recreation &

• Wingate by Wyndham –

• Lexington Medical Center • McClarrie’s Catering • Medical Services of America • Palmetto Aesthetic Medicine • Palmetto Party Rentals • Paul Smith Hairstyles • Pink Posses • Queen’s Quarters • Radisson Hotel ­– Columbia • Rusty Anchor • Sign Shoppe • Sound & Images, Inc. • South Carolina Oncology

Love for a Cure Tennis Tournament • Alala, LLC • Antonina’s Ristorante & NY

Aging Commission

Associates

• SCOA Cares • Southern Skillet • Southern Valet • Supporting Sisters • Ta-Tinis • Thai Wasabi • Tera’s Merle Norman • Tim’s Complete Auto Repair • Travinia Italian Kitchen • Tyler Ryan Group • Vital Energy

• Lexington County Recreation &

Lexington

Pizzeria • Applebee’s (Devine Street) • Bliss Salon & Spa • Bridgewater Jewelers • Celebrations • Brian Mervak • Kimberly Campbell • Chad and Cindy Greer • Chemo with Style • Colonial Limousine Service • Country Inn & Suites – Savannah, GA • Donna Rodgers • Embassy Suites • Flight Deck Restaurant • Food Lion of Lexington • Bob and Joyce Hampton • Hospice Care of Tri-County • Junior Tennis League • Kovachi’s • Lexington Arms Restaurant

Aging Commission • Lexington County Tennis Complex • Main Street Restaurant (Columbia) • Medical Services of America, Inc. • Mold Solutions, Inc. • Paul Smith – Bourrggines Hair Salon • Pearlz Oyster Bar • Quality Inn – West Columbia • Radisson Hotel • Sam’s Fine Wine & Spirits • Sheraton Columbia Downtown Hotel • Sound & Images, Inc. • Spanish Vines • Staybridge Suites • Tavette Martin – Suppercut Hair Salon • Thai Wasabi • Tim’s Complete Auto Repair • The Bistro & Martini Bar • The Eclectic House • The Mediterranean Café • Travinia Italian Kitchen • US Foods • Vista Specialities • Vital Energy • Yummie Creations, Inc.

• Sports Performance • Personal Training • Fitness Nutrition • Massage Therapy

803.750.9036 • www.AthletesArena.com • 7575 B St. Andrews Road • Irmo, SC www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

L eWomen xington Real

Wo m a n c e l e b r a t e s t h e s u r v i vo r i n yo u

Celebrating the

Survivor in You!

THE Posse Bead Ladies of Dems

by Lori Samples Duncan photography by Clark Berry Photography

I

want you to know why we chose the cover of this issue to be the Dems Pink Posse Bead Survivors.

In the spirit of Christmas, I wanted a cover to reflect the joy of the season and the spirit of benevolence that hopefully Christmas inspires in all of us. Recently in a phone conversation with my aunt I said to her, “I don’t want anything for Christmas, I have everything I need.

I have healthy Children, a loving husband, a wonderful career, good friends and a relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ. I am blessed.”

She said to me, “You know what Lori, you are right. I am just happy to be alive this Christmas.

That is the best gift I have ever received.”

I laughed because I was thinking to myself how many lives she has already touched, this little red headed survivor, mine included. How she has pursued her healing with faith, tenacity and a powerfully positive attitude.

These women on the cover I believe are so much a part of my aunt’s success along with the success of other women, yet most of them have never met many of the lives they have touched. A few of them sent my aunt handwritten notes. One of them even called her on the phone and gave her encouragement. Strangers, drawn together by a common thread called cancer.

I wanted the Dems Pink Posse beads to be a part of this issue because I believe what Dems has done with their bead program is exactly what most of the survivors I know have done. They have found a way to give back. Cancer has touched their lives,

and they have found a way to give hope to others who will go through it.

Dems supports local organizations like the SCOA Cares Foundation. They have a bead named after a group of young Survivors, called the Ta-Tini’s, who I am proud to call friends. There is also a bead for caregivers. Each of these beads are beautiful and intricately designed just like the women and the causes they are designed to represent. All of the beads were designed to fit onto the most popular bead bracelets; including Trollbeads, Chamilia, Pandora, and many more. Each sur-

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

19

Celebrating the

Survivor in You! ...the brother and sister duo at Dems took a cause that had affected so many people who were near and dear to them and decided to give something back to the community... vivor bead sold at Dems Fine Jewelry, gives a donation back to a local organization. You can find out more about these wonderful beads at www.demsjewelers.com.

With the Survivor bead program, they have raised over $14,000 in the last year!

That is amazing to me! Steven and Debbie, the brother and sister duo at Dems took a cause that had affected so many people who were near and dear to them and decided to give something back to

the community they live in. (Not just at Christmas time, but all year long!)

Lexington Woman salutes The Pink Posse and Dems Fine Jewelry for bringing Christmas to Lexington County year round!

This year, Dems will be accepting nominations for beads. Become a fan of Dems Jewelers on Facebook and look for details soon.

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Two Local Schools are Offering Embroidery Services to the Public!

White Knoll High School and Pleasant Hill Middle School, have embroidery businesses that provide opportunities for students with special needs to gain hands-on work experience. They are taking outside orders.

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

The program at WKHS is part of the Occupational Credential program. For pricing information, contact Christina Matthews at (803) 821-5368 or cmathews@lexington1.net or Kathleen Taylor at (803) 821-5427 or ktaylor@lexington1.net.

At Pleasant Hill Middle, the embroidery business

is part of “Project SMILE� Special Minds Integrating Life Long Learning Experiences. Students learn skills related to customer service, collecting, depositing and receipting money, work ethic and the satisfaction of seeing a final product completed. For more information on the PHMS business, contact Jenny Johansson at (803) 821-2700.

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Still writing her story...

by Mandy Rivers

L

exington Woman’s focus on cancer has always been about the Survivor and never the disease.

This story is no different. Cynthia Weaver is a survivor. She became a survivor the day she got her diagnosis, put her feet on the floor and decided to fight. We’ve heard the stories of our neighbors who have won their battles and are able to tell their stories from a cancer free survivor’s point of view.

This story is about a woman who is still on the uncertain road to recovery. This is the ongoing story of how Cynthia Weaver survives each day with breast cancer.

After having her yearly mammogram just eight weeks earlier, Cynthia rolled over in bed to turn out the light on April 1, 2009 and felt a huge mass. The cancer was in her left breast and had spread to the lymph nodes. After being diagnosed with Stage III invasive ductal carcinoma (the tumor being the size of a lemon) she was stunned and faced immediate surgery in the following days.

Appointments were made immediately with the surgeon and oncologist to discuss treatment options.

After having a mastectomy, another surgery to have a port inserted for chemo, four and a half months of life-altering chemo and six weeks of radiation, Cynthia thought she had fought the hardest battles and would soon hear the words, “cancer-free”.

Unfortunately, that was not to be.

Thirty days after treatment, on New Year’s Eve 2009 she was told that she had a reoccurrence and the breast cancer had spread to a vertebrate in her back. “I was in shock from this news and thought ‘this cannot be’”, says Cynthia. To make sure that the cancer in the vertebrae was from the breast cancer and not a new occurrence, the doctors performed a very painful procedure to biopsy the inside of the vertebrate and it did come back positive for breast cancer.

Cynthia and her daughter decided to go to Duke for a second opinion.

Cynthia tells us that she and her daughter never wanted to look back and feel they had not checked out all the resources and options available.

Lying in the back seat recuperating from the back biopsy, her daughter and son-in-law took Cynthia to Duke to meet with a breast cancer specialist. Duke confirmed with the oncologist in Columbia that additional chemo would not be helpful at that point.

Cynthia tells us what life has been like since that day: I decided early on that I would walk this cancer journey with courage and dignity and have tried every day to do so through all the treatments, surgeries, biopsies, scans and doctor appointments. I know that God is walking with me and carrying me when I stumble, and that many prayers that have been prayed for me and my faith has gotten me through many dark hours and days.

I have learned how much I am loved by my daughter, mom, dad, brother and all my friends. The outpouring of love and support has been overwhelming. I cannot express how my daughter (who I called my angel through all this) has helped me walk

Cynthia Weaver through this journey. Without her care, encouragement and support I know that I would not be here today. She even took me home after my mastectomy surgery and convinced the surgeon that she would care for me at home without me even spending a night at the hospital. She was so loving and cared for me and watched over me for the next few days after surgery. She was the one who forced me to take the bandages off and we cried together to see how I was forever changed physically. She is very protective of me, especially when we are in dressing rooms and trying on clothes so that others will not look at me. She made sure that she went to all my chemo treatments and sat with me for each four and a half hour treatment; reading, playing games, or anything we could do to pass the time. She then took care of me for the next few days cooking, making sure groceries were in the house, running errands until I was back on my feet and they she returned to her home in Greenville, SC and back to her practice as a Vascular Internist. Then the process would begin again for a total of 6 rounds of chemo.

My daughter has provided constant love and encouragement; even convincing me I had hair when I was bald to force me out of the house without my wig.

I have found courage that I never knew existed and endurance for the unknown. I have learned that none of us are guaranteed a tomorrow, and that you have to live each day fully and with hope. I am thankful and blessed for every single day that God gives me and appreciate every moment and never taking things for granted. I have been blessed and given many friends that I would not have if not for breast cancer. I feel that I can say I am surviving breast cancer and will continue to fight this dreadful disease.

Cynthia’s prayers in the beginning were for survival. Through her journey, the prayer was no longer about her breasts cancer but instead Cynthia tells us, “My prayer to God since is ‘Please God, let me live long enough to rock a grandchild.’” Cynthia’s prayer will be answered near Valentine’s Day 2011 when her first grandchild is expected.

This article is brought to you by Dems Fine Jewelers. Visit www.demsjewelers. com, call (803) 407-5290, or see their ad on page 20.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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photo by Clark Berry Photography

Happy Holidays!

We want to help you keep stress to a minimum this holiday season!

Check out these articles for great tips: The Gilbert Volleyball team proudly supports Play for the Cure!

pg 10

Simplify your Holidays!

pg 15

Surviving the Holidays without Overcommitting Yourself

pg 39

Dealing with Holiday Stress

They raised money this night for Breast Cancer awareness and were very proud of their pink socks!

Congratulations to Coach Joey Lawson and his undefeated White Knoll High School B-team! Go Timberwolves!

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Who gets All women are at risk for ovarian cancer.

OV AR I

• Ovarian cancer occurs in approximately one in 72 women.

AN

• Ovarian cancer is one of the five leading causes of cancer death in American women.

R? NCE CA

• A woman’s chance of survival is better if the cancer is found early.

• A Pap smear is not a test for ovarian cancer. It detects cervical cancer.

Some are at higher risk.

• Women with a family or personal history of ovarian, breast or colon cancer • Post-menopausal women • Women who have never been pregnant or given birth

Symptoms include: • Abdominal pressure • Bloating and discomfort • Unusual fatigue • Shortness of breath • Unexplained weight fluctuation • Constant feeling of fullness

Talk to your doctor or visit our web site for more information

www.scOvarianCancer.org

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

23

photo by Clark Berry Photography

Life is a true gift – cherish it!

by Lisa Amick as told to Shirley Keels, Administrator, Columbia Women’s Healthcare

I Lisa Amick He gave me a prescription to have a mammogram. I took it home, placed it on my desk and truly forgot about it. One day –about 4 months later, I came across it, made an appointment and had it done.

A few days later, when the report came in, Dr. Davis called me to his office. He explained the results showed 3 tumors in my left breast. He sent me for some more tests and eventually to Dr. Stephen Metropol – a wonderful and kind surgeon. When I found out I had cancer, I was scared to death!! I thought this was a death sentence.

At first, I didn’t cry – I guess I was in shock. Dr. Metropol performed a double mastectomy. Next, came chemotherapy. When I lost my hair,

I thought “this is just awful”. I hated the wig I purchased!

Although I would not have chosen cancer, it has been a blessing. Along this cancer journey, my life has been enriched with beautiful people and experiences. My husband, Steve, said he would do whatever it took to get me through. It has brought us closer together than ever before. My wonderful son, Adam, was so helpful and supportive – he is truly a blessing. One thing I learned is cancer has to be harder on those who love me than it was on me. I had my bad moments when I felt like I was in a dark, deep pit and could not climb out. However, kind words and prayers from my doctors, nurses, family, friends, and co-workers

became an employee at Columbia Women’s Healthcare in September, 2007. I had not been as faithful about pap smears and mammograms for more years than I care to admit. I was in good health and didn’t feel the necessity.

I heard a lot of talk at work about annual exams and pap smears, so one day I made an appointment with one of our physicians – Dr. Myles Davis for an annual physical.

Although I would not have chosen cancer, it has been a blessing. helped guide me back into thinking positive, hopeful thoughts.

take 1 day at a time, be grateful for life, family, and friends.

I have a relationship with Jesus and I look to Him for strength daily.

Comment from Shirley Keels: Lisa is an inspiration to all of us at Columbia Women’s Healthcare. She fought this like a trooper. We are soo-o proud of her.

Each day, during my recovery, my friends at Columbia Women’s Healthcare supplied us with food.

My message to anyone who has been diagnosed with cancer is to never give up. Everything is doable-

This article is brought to you by Columbia Women’s Healthcare. Visit columbiawhc.com, call (803) 254-3230.

photo by Clar k Berr y Phot

ography

One of our very own featured survivors, Thrisha Shiver, is featured in book celebrating ‘women surviving cancer with courage’

24

Lexington resident Thrisha Shiver, a member of the faculty of Benedict College, is one of 45 women who share their stories of living with cancer in “Bless You Sister, I’ll Be Prayin’ For You,” a collection of first-person accounts compiled and edited

by Milledgeville cancer survivor Sophia Shockley Peavy. In addition to Shiver, who is a breast cancer survivor, women from Georgia, North Carolina, California, Colorado and Massachusetts contributed their first-person accounts, ranging from diarylike entries written earlier this year to one survivor’s recollection of her diagnosis in 1962. In addition to breast cancer, the contributors to “Bless You Sister” are survivors of adenoid cystic carcinoma, colon cancer, squamous cell carcinoma, leukemia, liver cancer, lung cancer, myeloma, melanoma, non-Hodgkin lymphoma, ovarian cancer and thyroid cancer. “Bless You, Sister.

I’ll Be Prayin’ For You,” is available for purchase at BlessYouSister.com. The cost is $24, plus $6 for shipping and handling. All proceeds will be donated to organizations dedicated to fighting cancer and supporting those who are struggling with it.

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Craving quality care?

Take care of that craving and we’ll take care of you.

tending to the unique nature of women 1301 Taylor Street, Suite 6-J, Columbia, SC 29201

803-254-3230 columbiawhc.com

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

25

Culinary Cards for Cancer 2010

by Lori Samples Duncan photography by Clark Berry Photography

T

oday I received a heartbreaking email about a mother of four whose cancer has returned. Her original diagnosis was in 2008, and now after two years of remission she is again fighting for her life. This divorced mother of four has had trouble finding work and recently was a trainer at a local gym. With no insurance, no spouse to lift her up or hold her hand for treatment, a thirteen year old daughter, fraternal twins who are in college, and a grown daughter who she doesn’t want to burden with her diagnosis, she will fight this like many other men and woman across the country… alone.

This lady is what the Culinary Cards for Cancer was all about. This event was a night last September in which over 150 local patrons stopped by the Wingate in Lexington, paid at the door, played cards around the “ballroom” and sampled

dishes from ten different restaurants in Lexington. We had fun. It was fun.

We celebrated the lives of many men and women who have won this fight, and we raised money to help women who, like the above mentioned mother, are still fighting a good fight.

2010 CULINARY ER CARDS FOR CANC 5:30 - 7:30pm

C

Thursday, September 9, 2010

from

Wingate by Wyndham

gton

108 Saluda Pointe Court • Lexin

) 461-5186 For more information call (803 **Valet Parking Available**

C 26

Tickets: $30 each or 2/$50

With Style • Lexington Woman Alala Cancer Society • Chemo Lexington) Wingate by Wyndham (Columbia/

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Ten local restaurants joined us, all sharing their cuisine, and even some of the boys from Going Commando, the legendary local band stopped by to entertain. The game was simple. Each res-

taurant’s table that the guests visited earned them a playing card. Each time we gave away a prize, the person with the best hand won!

Now we are not talking about a free hamburger either. Some of the donated prizes were a weekend in Savannah, a weekend in Bristol, Tennessee, a three hundred dollar prize value from Dems Fine Jewelry, An overnight Getaway for two at The Radisson Hotel off Bush River Road, and complimentary breakfast at Colombo’s, and the list goes on.

I do want to thank all the vendors that made that evening possible as well as all those of you who bought a ticket and showed up to support

Celebrating the

Survivor in You!

We celebrated the lives of many men and women who have won this fight, and we raised money to help women who...are still fighting a good fight. a worthwhile cause. See a list of all of the generous vendors and volunteers on page 18.

By partnering with local community leaders such as The Wingate by Wyndham, South Carolina Oncology Associates (SCOA), Hospice Care of Tri-County, Bogart’s, Travinia Italian Kitchen of Lexington, Thai Wasabi, The Bistro, Café Strudel, McClarries Catering, The Backyard Café, Kovachi’s, Southern Skillet and The Cotton Grill, we were able to raise money to help a number of underserved women right here in the Lexington community.

All proceeds from the event went to Chemo with Style and Alala Cancer Society.

Both of these organizations are committed to helping support and encourage men and women who are undergoing various forms of cancer treatment specifically chemo therapy.

The Culinary Cards for Cancer will be an annual event.

I hope you make plans to join us at the Wingate next September. It is sure to be a fantastic time and is definitely a worthwhile cause! www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

27

Celebrating the

photo by Cathy Lindner

Survivor in You!

by Pam Criscione Ubl

T

he Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission continued in its ahead-of-the-curve tradition with the debut of the Love for a Cure tennis tournament, held September 25th at the Lexington County Tennis Complex. The one-day, United States Tennis Association sanctioned event, was a first in South Carolina.

And by all accounts, the abbreviated format was a winner.

USTA Adult Competition Chairperson and participant Cricket Poston enthusiastically observed: I’m looking forward to the next one. I enjoyed myself, and only had to spend one day of my weekend playing tennis: Fun, quick and satisfying.”

This year’s Tournament honored the memory of Jay Criscione, the visionary former Director of LCRAC, who lost his battle with Cancer in 2009. Jay served Lexington County Recreation for 35-years, joining the staff right after graduating from Clemson in 1973 and rising through the ranks to become Director in

1983. Under his leadership, LCRAC grew into a vaunted county-wide hub that today boasts over forty-five parks and facilities, wellness centers, gymnasiums, ball fields and sports arenas, as well as the state-of-the-art tennis complex that hosted Love for a Cure.

Fifty-six players participated in the Tournament, which featured Men’s, Women’s and Mixed Doubles Combos. As LCRAC Tennis Director Jorge Andrew says: “The success of Love for a Cure proves that a oneday tournament is achievable and fun, and that’s a benefit for the play-

photo by Cathy Lindner

(left to right) Joe Mozingo, Jase Strickland, Paulette Criscione, Anthony Curtis, and Glenn Mainwaring

28

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Cricket Poston, Paulette Criscione, and Karen Thompson ers who can earn USTA points and be over in one day. Most importantly, the community benefits from the services supported by the funds raised.”

Tennis is a sport which can be played and enjoyed by people of all ages, with development and improvement continuing through-out the life span. And an expertly-designed, world-class complex like Lexington County Tennis Complex encourages participation and enjoyment. One of Jay Criscione’s many achievements as LCRAC Director was his success in advancing equipment and courts tailored to the QuickStart format, which facilitates the development of young tennis players. Because QuickStart is uniquely suited to their needs and abilities, it enhances a young player’s confidence, resulting in more effective learning and progress. Scaled down equipment and court-size allow a beginning player to rally back and forth over the net almost immediately, not only engendering fun, but also a sense of competence from the start.

Jay’s efforts were also instrumental in forging a partnership with the energy corporation SCANA, and

the town of Casey, South Carolina, to construct the new tennis complex slated for completion in 2011.

About 73% of LCRAC efforts are funded through taxes; the rest of the monies required to support its ambitious work come from program fees, grants, and vital fundraising efforts.

Paulette Criscione, LCRAC Director of Sports Marketing, emphasizes: “An enormous amount of effort goes into the organization of an event like Love for a Cure, and success is really due to the extraordinary efforts of our community volunteers.

“Long Life and Happiness” is LCRAC’s motto. And the ultimate story of Love for a Cure is one of hope.

About 11-million Americans—one in 30-people—are either currently undergoing treatment for cancer, or have done so in the past. Through organizations like the Alala Cancer Society and Chemo with Style, the proceeds from Love for a Cure will benefit many in Lexington County who, like Jay Criscione, are waging their own battles and need support.

Jay Criscione had a survivor’s spirit, and his efforts in behalf of Lexington County are an enduring part of his legacy.

Thank you...

LATA Jr. Team Tennis Ages 6-18

Registration Open Nov. 1, 2010 - Feb. 14, 2011 QuickStart divisions Ages 6-10 Beginners $37.05 Intermediate - Advanced divisions $51.03 Season begins March 18, 20 2011 Register BEFORE 12/31/10 and receive a $5 discount.

Participants must call the office to register at 951-0980 to receive the discount.

Office hours are Monday - Friday 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

www.LexingtonTennis.com

Linda Welton is more than a local business owner and resident, she is a giver as well. She has helped Lexington Woman and Chemo with Style with decorations at our holiday fashion show as well as our culinary cards events every year since we began co-hosting events in 2008.

Although Linda has no personal tragedy involving a family member who has fought against cancer, she has opened her heart to us at each of these events even involving others to help make this a spectacular night that many women look forward to attending.

Her beautifully decorated Christmas tree has been the back drop for pictures that Clark Berry has taken for us more than once. She decorated the tree on the front cover that was set up at Dems Fine Jewelry for our cover shoot this November and can now be seen at our new offices in the Old Mill in Lexington, South Carolina.

Linda is the kind of person who doesn’t ask “How much?”, “How long will it take?” or “Where is it?”. She is the type of person who says, “When is it? What do you need from me?”. We have been blessed by her involvement, and her decorations add character and class to each event she participates in.

We try to make a difference in the lives of underserved men and women in the Midlands so thank you Linda for always being a support for that purpose. You have been a blessing to work with the last three years.

A journey that was meant to happen….

Take a woman with a great sense of style facing a difficult situation with her head held high (and quite fashionably decorated) along with a woman with the heart to help others and the opportunity to do so, and Chemo with Style was inevitable. Paulette Criscione and Terry Vann-Schon formed a partnership and a friendship that has made Chemo with Style such an important part of many survivors journey.

With the donation of 75 wigs and the desire to pay it forward, Paulette and Terry have worked since November of 2005 to help patients who lose their hair while under going chemotherapy, look and feel better as they fight for their lives.

Chemo with Style classes are held every other month, and are open to all cancer patients who are losing or have lost their hair. Hospice Care of Tri-County, SCOA, local merchants, and volunteers support the classes, where they teach and fit each individual with a wig and turban, showing creative ways to wear different head gear, and offering other personal appearance tips. Scarf tying and other tricks are shared along with fun and fellowship. Classes are offered at no cost to the patient.This loosely knit support group supplies each cancer patient an oasis from the sterile medical. Through the hearts of those who are like-minded, Paulette and Terry strive to add sunshine to the day of each cancer survivor.

The “Chemo With Style” events have been made possible by the donations of many caring, loving people.

Sponsors: South Carolina Oncology Associates Hospice Care of Tri-County “Chemo With Style” Volunteers Joan Robinson, Hair to Stay Graciously accepting Donations — Please call Terry Vann-Schon for more information on how to donate.

Contact Terry Vann-Schon for more information 803.400.1177 | 166 Stoneridge Drive, Suite 100 | Columbia, SC 29210 | www.chemowithstyle.com “Chemo with Style” is a © copyrighted program with Hospice Care of Tri-County.

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

29

Professional

Do You Have a Broken Nose?

by Ashby Jones

H

ave you ever broken a bone, sprained an ankle, or broken your nose? Did you know immediately the extent of your injury? Maybe not, but you probably knew just who could help you find out—your local doctor. If you didn’t see your doctor, were you stoic instead? Did you try to “walk it off ” hoping the symptoms would go away (only to find out later that you needed a cast, physical therapy, or plastic surgery)? How many times have our local physicians shaken their heads at us, smiled, and said: “I wish you had come to see me sooner”?

Have you ever felt a wound to your basic human rights? Did you know immediately the extent of your injury or did something just not seem right?

Did you heal quickly from the injury? Maybe not.

You may still be trying to “walk off ” the injury instead of seeking help.

Injuries to your rights are just as significant as physical injuries and warrant attention.

Oliver Wendell Holmes defined human rights with his oft-quoted statement, “My right to swing my arm ends where another man’s nose begins.”

But what if you aren’t sure if you have been punched in the nose? How do you know if your rights have been violated?

How do you know if your nose is broken?

Meet with an attorney immediately. Just like any other injury, timing does affect the healing process. Whether your rights were violated at work, on the road, in an accident, within your family, or elsewhere, your injury requires attention. Many people feel like the brave and honorable reaction to a violation of their rights is to “walk off ” the injury. Those people often find later that the violation they have suffered is harder to bear than they once thought. Speaking with an attorney will help you learn more about the cause of your injury and the remedies available to you. Next, you can you decide whether to act or not. Meeting with an attorney to find out if your nose is broken will cost you nothing.

What if the violation doesn’t seem to be that bad?

You may not know how bad it actually is. If you’ve been physically injured, a doctor may discover a deeper wound or a permanent problem. A lawyer can tell you if the wound to your rights is limited to you, may impact how others are treated, or has happened in the past. Any violation to your rights, regardless of degree, may affect your sense of personal dignity, your self-esteem, or your

30

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

perception of society. A minor violation to your rights may be equivalent to a bruised nose. You may consider the bruise a wound that will heal in time, but until then you are entering every room with a marred face.

basic to restoring human rights. With penitence, a child will feel sorry for what she did. With penance, a child will think twice before hitting her sister (or anyone else) ever again.

But what if you are ashamed?

Words like tattletale, snitch, weasel, and whistleblower may be storming through your mind as you consider whether or not to seek legal advice concerning your situation. These words were coined to do just that. As much as we encourage children in school to turn in cheaters, witnesses of crimes to testify, and journalists to reveal the truth, we still fear the name-callers will dub us tattletales. If your rights are violated, your responsibility to yourself and others is to act. Your actions could prevent future violations from occurring. By acting, you uphold morality. You should be proud, not ashamed.

Have you ever felt a wound to your basic human rights?

But what if you want to forgive?

You should forgive! Forgiveness will not only make those who have hurt you recover more quickly, it will help you heal, too. Mark Twain said: “Forgiveness is the fragrance that the violet sheds on the heel that has crushed it.”

Forgiveness, however, does not preclude punishment for wrongdoing. Any parent knows that if a child disobeys he must be punished—even if he is really, really sorry. If a teenager shatters the neighbor’s window with a baseball, he may be sorry, but he still needs to work to pay for the window. If a child hits her sister, she may cry through her apology, but she still needs a few moments in timeout. Parents who punish their children for wrongdoing are also parents who love their children. Punishment is essential to teaching a moral lesson. Punishment is a primary force in changing behaviors. The requirement for both penitence (the feeling of being sorry) and penance (the punishment for wrongdoing) are

If your rights have been violated, or if they may have been, your choices are not limited to retaliation and resignation. You don’t have to become a villain in search of revenge or a negative force in your community. You also don’t have to become an uninformed doormat, willing to live with a marred face, ignorant of the depth of the damage, and oblivious if others have been marred similarly or will be, in the hopes that at least your nose might one day heal.

The law provides so much more. Your choice can be the restoration of your rights. You should see an attorney to find out the extent of your injury.

You should find out what actions you can take to begin healing. Much like you carefully select your doctor, looking for someone educated, known in your community, and with a kind and patient bedside manner – please carefully select an attorney. Perusing the internet or calling a number from a splashy television ad is no way to obtain information. You wouldn’t trust a website to tell you when to have surgery. You would never decide to consume a prescription medication based solely on an elaborate ad campaign.

A local, trusted attorney who is dedicated to Lexington County will take time to listen to your concerns, carefully make the appropriate diagnosis, prescribe a measured and aggressive treatment plan, and remain available should you ever need his or her services again.

KINARD

JONES

LLC

Attorneys at Law

RESPECTED LEXINGTON ATTORNEYS WHO CARE

• Auto Accidents • Injury • Divorce • Custody • Criminal Defense

803-359-1003

kinardandjones.com

303 South Lake Drive

•

Lexington, SC 29072

•

Fax (803) 359-1378 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

31

Professional

There’s a New Scrapbook Store in Town!

by Vicki Kelly

I

Vicki Kelly and Kathy Adams Our goal is to provide customers with not only the newest of paper crafting and stamping supplies, but also, be able to provide everyone with a place where they can come in, take a seat, and work on their projects (alone or with a friend). The atmosphere is peaceful and calm – UTOPIAN! There are scrapbook classes, card making, crops, and more – scheduled “Free Make & Takes.” The store hosts crops on Friday nights (schedule to be determined), and quarterly we will have an ALL DAY, Saturday Crop (10a.m. to midnight!). The store is also available for private parties with limited seating of 20 for all in-house events.

We have spacious sales floor – easy to move around, tables and chairs for 20 crafters, a comfortable powder room, kids coloring area, a small seating area with a 40” TV for children and/or spouses, and background music. Yes, they can watch the game or cartoons, while you shop. So far it’s been great for the kids! Mom’s have been able to shop in peace.

f you are a scrapbooker, card maker, paper crafter, stamper, or a mixed media artist, we will carry a variety of products for your wants and needs.

If you would like to learn how to scrapbook, we have a “Scrapbook101” class available monthly. And, if you have tons of pictures, but no time to put them in an album, we can help you with that too.

We would love to add you to our growing email list. Anyone interested in being on our email list can come by and sign the book, or call.

For those of you who don’t know me, it has been a dream of mine for many years to have a retail store of my own. As a teenager and early 20 something, I thought it would be in the fashion industry. In my 30’s, I thought, maybe interior design, professional organizing even. Those of you who know me well, know how “organized” I am. Everything is in it’s place!

My education in business, retail sales and management experience, together with my eye for color, line and design, and of course, being involved in the scrapbooking/card making/paper crafting industry for over 12 years, and being a StampinUp! demonstrator for over three years (selling and teaching classes), provided me with the confidence to pursue my passion.

me in running the business, teaching technique classes and more. Kathy has a degree in Interior Design, has been an avid “scrapper” for YEARS. She was also involved with StampinUp! as a demonstrator for over 4 years. She has an incredible eye and appreciation for anything in the arts. She will be an asset to anyone who may need assistance in the store.

The store opened September 24, 2010. It has been an exciting time for all of us involved in opening, and running the store.

We think you’ll like what you see, and feel, when you come into the store. We look forward to seeing you all walk through the front door!

Vicki Kelly is the owner and manager of Scrapbook Utopia. Visit her at 5341 Sunset Blvd. Suite C, (Hwy 378), Lexington, SC 29072 (in the Topspin Plaza). For more information, call (803) 808-3998 or email scrapbookutopia@yahoo.com.

I have a very dear friend, Kathy Adams, assisting

N

ow

O

pe

n!

“We want to nurture, cultivate & inspire individual creativity.

Provide the products, services & space that allows creativity.”

Paper • Stamps • Punches • Tools • Inks Offering Classes — Call for Details!

(803) 808-3998

scrapbookutopia@yahoo.com 32

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

5341 Sunset Blvd. Suite C Lexington, SC 29072

Real Women

25%off

a single item

Valid through December 31, 2010

photo by Clark Berry Photography

THE

Eclectic

HOUSE

by Lori Samples Duncan

O

pening in May of 2001, The Eclectic House is the brain child of Linda Welton. Linda wanted to offer unique gifts and “one of a kind” home décor merchandise, especially original pieces that are difficult to find locally.

Linda loves multifunctional pieces and always asks herself before purchasing inventory, “How many ways could this be used in a person’s home?”

Her unique way of decorating is especially kind to those of us on a budget, or if you want to quickly change the look of an old room to something new by just adding a few pieces. Linda says her favorite kind of decorating is working with what someone already has available to them. If you have attended a Lexington Woman fashion show or a culinary cards event at the Wingate in Lexington, you have seen centerpieces and much more designed by Ms. Linda Welton.

When Linda saw the old house on Hwy 378, she thought it was perfect

for her dream. A 3,600 square foot house filled with history and charm bursting with all the fabulous finds of Linda and other buyers. You can browse every room at your leisure, and trust me it will take a while to see it all – possibly even more than one trip!

is one of the things Linda is most proud of about The Eclectic House.

The Eclectic House has furniture, art, lamps, home accessories, jewelry, handbags, kitchen accessories, baby items, Vera Bradley, floral arrangements, fragrances, candles, patio furniture, indoor/outdoor fountains, and the list goes on. Having something for every price point

This is not your typical retail shopping experience as one might surmise by the name its self. They offer private shopping parties especially around the holidays at The Eclectic House. Linda also does special decorating for events at your business or home site. She can even

A beautiful centerpiece by Linda Welton

The Eclectic House Linda Welton

(803) 791-7740 • www.theeclectichouse.com 1709 Sunset Boulevard, West Columbia, SC

be persuaded to help with floral pieces for table tops or just to add a few touches for a new office or building or church foyer.

Stop by and see Linda or her staff at The Eclectic House this holiday season and peruse the new merchandise both seasonal and otherwise. Don’t forget to tell them Lexington Woman sent you!

HOME DECOR & GIFTS

Furniture • Art • Lamps • Home Accessories • Jewelry • Handbags Kitchen Accessories • Baby Items • Vera Bradley • Florals • Fragrances Candles • Patio Furniture • Indoor/outdoor Fountains • and much more!

Offer Private Shopping Parties & Decorating Services www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

33

Professional

Who shouldn’t be buying a house right now?

by Tyler Ryan

W

ho shouldn’t be buying a house right now? “Nobody,” says Sally Lucas, Coldwell Banker Realtor, and the owner of Sally Lucas Homes…and Sally knows a thing or two about real estate. You might say it is in her blood.

“I grew up in the business,” she said. Both her parents, Gene and Vanessa Key are real estate appraisers with Accredited Key Appraisals, and her husband, Michael, is a Mortgage Originator for Coldwell Banker Mortgage. As for Sally, she has had a long career in the business, as a mortgage broker, and for the last five years, this mother of two has been an agent herself. photo by Clark Berry Photography

In her estimation, it is still very much a buyers market. “There’s a lot of foreclosures and a lot of good deals,” she said. Sally says that rates are as low as three percent on a fifteen year mortgage, and less than four percent for a thirty year note. She also pointed out that these are not the variable term rates that got everyone in trouble, where you have a nice comfortable payment for a few years, followed by a much inflated one. The rates that are offered are known as fixed, meaning they stay the same. It is also a great time to refinance, if you already own a home.

These rates, coupled with the ever growing inventory of houses makes for a great situation for anyone considering a house. There is an old saying, which Sally confirmed, that often you can own a house for less than you pay in rent. That has never been more true.

My Favorite Holiday...

The short sale is another option for buyers. The short sale refers to a home that will sell just before it is to be foreclosed on. Most times, the amount of the sale is less than the mortgage itself. For the buyer, it can create a “great deal” in a purchase, as

34

My favorite Christmas was when I got a big truck just like my Dad’s that I can drive all by myself.

ing years of clutter. “People need to feel at home, and feel that real people live there.

None of this is necessarily good news for folks who are looking to sell their home, however, there are some very specific things that can be done to make a home that is on the market stand out. “It used to be about location, location, location,” but Sally says the price is what sells homes in this market. She suggests pricing it at the market rate, or even slightly below, rather than pricing high initially, so you have room to negotiate.

If you find yourself in need of selling, “it still may be a good time to sell,” Sally said. Traditionally, in the winter, many houses are taken off the market, which means a house may be less likely to be lost in the large pool of houses.

...it is still very much a buyers market.

Staging. The buzz word of many an HGTV program, but it really is key when you invite potential buyers to helping a potential buyer feel comfortable in your home, to see their dream. “Just like you were having a huge party and people coming over, you want it to look perfect. Pets are another consideration, when prepping your home for tours.” All that having been said, Sally said that overpricing can work as much against you as hav-

My favorite Christmas was when I got a really big present. It was bigger than everyone else’s..

– Ian

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

they not only can get a home under the market, but often very well below that amount.

Real Women

– Xavier

Through her collective years in real estate, Sally has developed a very successful marketing strategy to help sellers. She suggests full color ads, a huge internet presence, direct mailers, and submission to the multiple listing service. Sally Lucas has listings in prices ranging between seventy thousand and over four hundred thousand. You can visit Sally at www.

SallyLucasHomes.com.

Check out Sally in our On the Couch series. Visit our website or www.youtube.com/lexingtonwomantv.

My family all comes and we get to eat Chinese food. My favorite present was a “pee baby”. It uses a diaper.

– Tymireya

All of Christmas is my favorite.

You get prizes in your stocking if you are very good, you know.

– Jaden C.

A Simply Timeless Approach TO

YOUR

REAL

Sally Lucas

ESTATE

NEED S

137 Vista Oaks Dr., Lexington $163,900 – 2 Bedroom Patio Home

366 Ruth Vista Rd., Lexington $229,000 – 2 Acres!!

1456 Bombing Range Rd, Gilbert $369,900 – On Lake Murray

217 Mansfield Cir, Lexington $139,900 – Granite Countertops

124 Harmon Creek Ct, Lexington $166,900 – 2568sqft!!

105 Crimson Ln, Lexington $185,000 – A lot of House for the Money

www.SallyLucasHomes.com

Sally Lucas | Coldwell Banker United 5551 Sunset Blvd • Lexington, SC 29072 Direct: (803) 760-0289 • Fax: (803) 957-6828 Email: Sally@SallyLucasHomes.com

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Nancy Todd Jordan Attorney

• Spanish Translation Available

Toll Free 1-888-359-7996 201 W. Main Street, Lexington, SC 29072

www.palmettofamilylaw.com • Email: richard@palmettolegal.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

35

Pets

Medical Lasers: Its not all Star Wars!

by Tim Loonam, DVM

T

here are many exciting uses for lasers in manufacturing, research, telecommunications and in the military.

Perhaps the greatest advances in the use of lasers have been in medicine. Medical lasers have been used successfully on humans for over 30 years, and advances in medical laser technology have made lasers available at the private practice level. Many of the same benefits and successes of medical lasers in human medicine are now available for your pets.

A laser is an instrument that produces an extremely powerful and concentrated beam of light. In fact, surgical lasers create a beam of light that is even more powerful than a similarly-sized beam leaving the surface of the Sun! The CO2 laser, the most common surgical laser, takes full advantage of this concentrated beam of light to vaporize or ‘erase’ tissue. This laser is so precise it can replace scalpels and scissors in surgery and eliminate the crushing and bruising that occur with even the sharpest surgical instruments. This allows the surgeon to remove unhealthy tissue with minimal adverse affects to the healthy, surrounding tissue. The precision of surgical lasers also results in less post-operative swelling. Lasers seal nerve endings and small blood vessels resulting in less pain and bleeding, and the laser sterilizes as it cuts killing microorganisms that may cause infection. All of these benefits aid in rapid recovery and faster return to normal activity for your pet.

these are pets with flattened faces like bulldogs, pugs, Boston terriers, and Persian cats that snuffle and snore when they breathe. The results in cats declawed with a surgical laser are also amazing. Kittens and even large cats wake-up after surgery with almost no post-operative pain and are seen batting toys around their cage.

Other convenient uses of the surgical laser include removing excessive gum tissue (often a cause of bad breath), removal of skin tags and wart-like growths, surgery around the eyes, and even removal of anal glands.

Call one of our veterinarians today to see if laser surgery is an option for your pet.

The surgical laser can replace a scalpel and scissors in almost all veterinary surgical procedures...

The surgical laser can replace a scalpel and scissors in almost all veterinary surgical procedures including spays, neuters, lumpectomies, and approaches to orthopedic cases. The laser is particularly effective in surgeries of the upper airway to improve breathing in dogs and cats with ‘brachycephalic syndrome’;

Call Grace Animal and Pet Lodge at 808-PETS to schedule an appointment with Dr. Tim Loonam, Dr. Briana Davis or Dr. Jacinda DeRoy.

"Complete, Compassionate Care From Your Other Family Doctor"

Grace Animal Hospital

and Pet Lodge

36

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Small Animal Medicine and Surgery

Goats, Sheep and Llama Services

Small Animal Dentistry

Nutrition and Retail Products

Equine Services

Referral and Consultation Services

Pharmacy and Laboratory Behavior and Training Consulation

Pet Lodge

Tim Loonam, DVM Owner/Veterinarian

803.808.PETS (7387) | www.gracepets.com 147 Charter Oak Road | Lexington, SC 29072 Real Women

Don’t forget about our Noon Year’s Eve Ball Drop on Dec. 31st.

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Bring in this coupon to Monkey Joe’s of Lexington and receive $20 off your next birthday party.

Bring this ad in for $5 off your order of $25 or more

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Happy Holidays!

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As always, thank you for being a Lexington Woman reader!

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Fill out this card, and bring it in to Thai Wasabi for $5 off your order of $25 or more. Plus, you’ll be entered into a drawing courtesy of Lexington Woman for a 2 night free stay at the new eco-friendly Holiday Inn & Suites in West Columbia.

Fill out this card, and bring it in to Monkey Joe’s in Lexington for $20 off a birthday party. Plus, you’ll be entered into a drawing courtesy of Lexington Woman for a 2 night free stay at the new eco-friendly Holiday Inn & Suites in West Columbia.

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Fill out this card, and take it to any advertiser in this issue to be entered into a drawing courtesy of Lexington Woman for a 2 night free stay at the new eco-friendly Holiday Inn & Suites in West Columbia.

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38

Real Women

Health & Wellness

Dealing with Holiday

Stress

by Dr. Tasha Boone

M Dr. Tasha Boone

ost of us have very many happy memories of the Christmas holiday season.

These happy memories include our family getting to together to sing our favorite Christmas carols, the abundance of food on the table for dinner, driving through the neighborhood looking at all of the Christmas lights, attending Christmas parties, watching Nativity plays and of course, finding that perfect gift for that special someone.

However with all of those pleasant events that we look forward to on every Christmas holiday, there also comes the stress of planning for the Christmas parties and family gatherings that we will host, deciding which party of our friends and colleagues to attend, cooking the perfect red velvet cake that everyone looks forward to every year (so it better be perfect), finding time to shop for that perfect gift for everyone on our list, dealing with all holiday traffic and congestion while shopping and how to pay for it all once the Christmas holiday season is over.

We have all gone through this hectic season in the past and are all going through it right now. Each year we promise ourselves that next year we will not let the Christmas holiday season overwhelm us like it did this year. However, before we know it, we find ourselves right back into that same stressful trap.

Can the stress of the holiday affect our bodies?

Yes, it can! Even when we are under stress for

a short period of time, it can affect us. So what actually is happening to our bodies, when we are under stress?

• Stress can affect our immune system, leading to viral infections including the common cold and the flu.

• Stress can affect your heart. High levels can increase your heart rate and blood pressure which leads to an increase in workload on your heart.

• Stress can affect your endocrine system, which helps regulate your blood sugar. Stress can make your blood sugar higher than normal.

• Stress can also have a negative effect on your appearance with an increase in acne, more hair lost and deeper wrinkle lines.

So how can we handle all of the pressures of the holidays? There is no magic pill or formula that can make the stress go away, however there are a few things that may help you navigate this often stressful season.

• If you believe in a higher being, tap into that resource! Daily prayer and meditation is critical.

• Set priorities! We cannot do everything in one

day. Review your list and decide early what needs to be done today, such as going to the bank since it will be closed the next day, versus what can wait, like shopping for the perfect shoes for a party that is not until next week.

• Get rest! We need at least 8 hours of sleep at night to be at our best the next day.

• Exercise! It not only helps with your health by keeping the holiday weight increase to a minimum, but it improves your mood by releasing “happy hormones”.

• Know your limitations! If your husband is better at picking out the Christmas tree, let him do it, even if it is 2 days after your request it. Solicit help if needed and accept help if it is offered.

Remember that this season only comes once a year and you do not want to miss one single moment because you are stressed. Keep what was shared above in mind as you go through the Christmas holiday season. Just remember, it will all be a memory soon. Happy Holidays!

Dr. Boone brings her extensive experience of treating acute and chronically ill patients as a family physician to provide preventative family medicine care at The Medical Place Family Practice. Her focus is to effectively care for the whole person with compassion in a high quality healthcare setting.

Dr. Tasha M. Boone 3020 Sunset Blvd., Suite 101, West Columbia, SC 29169 Office: 803.791.5680 | Fax: 803.791.1680

www.themedicalplacefp.com

Call Now to Make Your Appointment

www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

39

Health & Wellness

One Woman’s Battle with Alzheimer’s Disease

“S

he was the greatest person I have ever met and she stole my heart.”

That’s how Glen Parsons of Lexington County describes his beloved wife Nina. The couple has shared a real-life love story that’s lasted nearly half a century. Glen and Nina met in college, married and raised four beautiful children. Nina, always very bright with an outstanding sense of humor, was a school teacher for years. This January will mark their 49th wedding anniversary. Glen recalls many years of happiness together.

Only when Glen speaks of Nina today, he has to fight back tears. That’s because Nina has Alzheimer’s disease. She lives in Carroll Campbell Place, Lexington Medical Center’s state-of-theart facility for people with Alzheimer’s disease.

The debilitating brain disease is robbing Nina of her life’s precious memories. Day by day, her family endures the heartbreaking experience of watching her slowly slip away.

According to the Alzheimer’s Association, approximately 80 thousand people in South Carolina have Alzheimer’s disease and dementia.

Statistics show that someone in America is diagnosed with Alzheimer’s nearly every minute. Progressive and fatal, Alzheimer’s is the sixth leading cause of death in the United States. The disease impacts by destroying brain cells. At first, symptoms are mild. Then, they become more severe.

Early detection to maintain the highest quality of life is very important. Typical early warning signs are: forgetting important dates or events; repeatedly asking for the same information; trouble following a familiar recipe, keeping track of monthly bills or driving to a familiar location; forgetting where you are or how you got there; struggling with vocabulary; showing poor judgment and experiencing changes in mood and personality.

Some memory loss is typical with age but there’s a distinct difference with Alzheimer’s. “Forgetting where you put your keys from time to time is normal,” said Wayne Stowe, Lexington Medical

40

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Center’s Vice President for Extended Care. “But forgetting how to use your keys is not normal.”

Glen first noticed something might be wrong when Nina began suffering from forgetfulness.

Nina had always been so smart, she was bothered that her memory had slipped. A doctor diagnosed Nina with Alzheimer’s disease eight years ago. The couple decided to make the most of their time together by traveling around the world. They shared wonderful times doing that over six years.

But Glen says there was a significant change in the last two years, with Nina forgetting how to drive to places with which she was familiar, repeating herself, more memory loss, loss of some motor skills and differences in social interactions.

Out of concern for Nina’s safety, Glen and his family made the decision to place Nina in Carroll Campbell Place earlier this year where she could receive around-the-clock skilled care.

According to Wayne Stowe, concerns about safety are often a driving force behind putting a loved one in a skilled care facility. As Alzheimer’s disease progresses, people can be prone to wandering away from home and getting lost. They may also unknowingly create unsafe situations in the home.

In addition, the extensive care required can take a toll on an entire family, physically and emotional-

Glen and Nina ly. Not to mention the cruelty of the progression of the disease. “You’ve already lost the person you knew,” Glen said. “But you still have the person you love.”

At Carroll Campbell Place, Glen says he and his family were drawn to the beauty of the outdoor gardens and the kindness of the staff. The facility, designed specifically for thirty-six people with Alzheimer’s disease, gives special attention to detail including a home-like atmosphere, memory boxes for residents to display family photos, beautiful gardens and a caring staff specially trained in Alzheimer’s care. Open since 2002 and named for late South Carolina governor Carroll Campbell who had Alzheimer’s disease, Carroll Campbell Place prides itself in meeting the needs of the community.

Glen visits Nina daily. Nurses watch the couple share time together and even though Nina’s condition has progressed significantly and she has lost a lot of her ability to communicate, they often hear her say ‘Glen’ when he walks in the room.

Unfortunately, there is no cure for Alzheimer’s disease, but treatment for symptoms along with the right care and support can make life better for those with Alzheimer’s and their families. November is Alzheimer’s Disease Awareness Month.

For more information, visit www.lexmed.com.

Dr.Watt lights up when his grandchildren are around.

Medical Park OB/GYN, Dr. George Watt is a very busy man because of the excellent reputation he gained among patients in his 30 years experience in the Columbia area. But when he has some spare time there’s nothing he and his wife enjoy more than spoiling their grandchildren.

Dr. Watt specializes in high-risk and general obstetrics, and offers both three and four dimensional ultrasounds in the office, along with a high dosage of compassionate care.

If you’re looking for a experienced OB/Gyn, you’ll find him at Medical Park OB/GYN at Lexington Medical Park 1.

~Voted a “Best Doctor” by a group of peers ~ (bestdoctors.com – 2007-2010)

call (803) 936-7430 for an appointment.

Watt_8x5.12_4C.indd 1

10/19/10 3:01 PM

“ If there is no joyous way to give a festive gift, give love away.”

“ From home to home, and heart to heart, from one place to another. The warmth and joy of Christmas brings us closer to each other.”

– Author Unknown

– Emily Matthews

Dr. Steven J. Hutchinson, DMD Jennifer P. Hutchinson, RDH Cosmetic | Restorative | Preventive

(803) 359-0566 209 West Main Street | Lexington, South Carolina 29072

Now Accepting New Patients www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

41

Health & Wellness

Dr. Bert Oubre: A Doctor with a Purpose

by Lori Samples Duncan

S

ome people find their relationship with God at a young age. Those children are typically raised in a Christian home. They are led by example to come to know and love the Lord. For others, the path isn’t quite as straight.

Even though God is always with them, they are unaware of his presence. For Doctor Bert Oubre, the path to Salvation was a winding one. “My gods were pride, position, prestige, and wealth,” says Dr. Oubre. of Medicine. By the time he had completed his education and residency, Dr. Oubre was a father of two, and began a private practice in Stockton, California. “I regret (now) that (his sons) were not reared in a Christian home,” Dr. Oubre says of his early days as husband and father.

It was then that Dr. Oubre began to open his heart and his mind. He began to study the world’s religions, and began with the Bible.

Dr. Bert Oubre It wasn’t that Dr. Oubre hadn’t been exposed to religion at a young age; this son of a Catholic father and Baptist mother frequently found himself in the Baptist Church near his southwest Louisiana home. Although he was baptized and attended church services his home was not the home of “spirit filled” believers that put the Lord

Jesus Christ first. For this young man it was the hypocrisy that he saw in his family and even the church that sent him a different direction.

After marrying his first wife who did not come from a Christian home, he severed his ties to God. During this time, Dr. Oubre spent his time focused on his studies, first at LSU in Baton Rouge, then in medical school at the LCU School

Emmaus MedSurg Clinic

His focus at the time was not to lead a Christian life or to let the Lord fill his heart and home. Material things had become his priority. Then a thirty-five year old trauma surgeon found himself with a large home, a pool, and tennis courts…a life in which God was not even an afterthought.

By the time he was forty his professional successes led him to a forty acre ranch filled with horses and cattle. Monetary fulfillment still left his life devoid of God. Dr. Oubre was certain that his success was of his own making. Even his wife’s mastectomy changed his focus very little even though she had begun to find her own way.

General Practice & Surgery We accept adult patients as well as children 2 years old and older. We accept the uninsured and offer reasonable fees. We provide complete physical exams, advice on staying well, ongoing care for basic medical conditions (diabetes, hypertension, etc.), minor trauma, office surgical procedures (removal of skin lesions, soft tissue masses, vasectomies, spider vein treatment, etc.) as well as procedures appropriate for surgi-center care (hernia repairs, certain biopsies, surgical treatment for pilonidal cysts, gynecomastia, etc.).

Bert B. Oubre, MD, FACS

Now accepting new patients!

42

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Call (803) 359-0164 for your appointment

www.emmausclinic.com Real Women

669 Barr Road Lexington, SC 29072

Health & Wellness He had been married for twenty-four years, had enjoyed amazing professional success, but when his wife’s cancer spread to her liver, it wasn’t the ranch, the horses, or the land that mattered. “I knew she would die, and I was helpless to control the situation.” It was then that Dr. Oubre began to open his heart and mind. He began to study the world’s religions, and began with the Bible.

“I was alone one night in the bedroom with my wife and it became very clear to me that I was a sinner with the wrong life goals, and that I needed a savior,” says Dr. Oubre. That night he confessed to Jesus and gave his life to Him. The next day, he was “filled with joy.” The acceptance was evident in his life, and noticed by his wife before her passing in 1985. She also put her faith in Christ several days before her death.

After her passing, he further devoted his life to God and made the first of many mission trips. When he returned, he knew what his life’s mission was.

Like Jesus commanded in Luke 12:33 when he said (New International Version (©1984) “Sell your possessions and give to the poor. Provide purses for yourselves that will not wear out, a treasure in heaven that will not be exhausted, where no thief comes near and no moth destroys.” Dr. Bert Oubre sold

his ranch, the horses, and his cattle. In nineteen eighty-six, he made the trip to Cameroon to take a surgeon’s place while on one year furlough.

In the years that followed he met his current wife in Africa. The Oubres have been blessed with three more children.

He has spent the last twenty-four years of his life serving Christ in nine countries. Dr. Oubre now serves in leadership of the Cutting Edge Foundation in Lexington. Their mission is to build medical centers in Africa and train the staff that runs them. The centers are dedicated to “reaching the lost for Jesus.”

In 2009 he opened the Emmaus MedSurg Clinic where there is a mix of medicine and ministry.

A friend once said to me after I started this magazine, “Lori, I am so glad you got your memo.” She went on to explain that God has given each of us a special work to do, albeit cleaning homes or teaching children. She was saying that I finally was where He wanted me to be.

It is my personal opinion that Dr. Bert Oubre got his memo too! I am thankful that even while we are “still looking for our memo,” He is there waiting for us to reach out to Him with His arms wide open.

Congratulations to the 2010 4A Marching Band Champions!

With a score of 95.00, the White Knoll High School Marching Band claimed the title of state champs this season!

Meet Michelle B. Frazier, M.Ed., CCC/A Michelle is an audiologist for Midland Hearing Associates (you can see their ad below).

She is also featured on our front cover as a member of the Pink Posse group.

Don’t miss Michelle’s article in the February issue of Lexington Woman!

For Your Entire Hearing Healthcare Needs Michele B. Frazier, M.Ed. One Wellness Boulevard Suite 108 Irmo, SC 29063 749-3371 (FAX)

Kenneth H. Johns, M.Aud. Three Richland Medical Park Suite 130 Columbia, SC 29203 771-9084 (FAX)

(803) 765-1919

www.midlandhearing.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

43

Health & Wellness

Living with Fibromyalgia –

Why Should I Do Occupational/Physical Therapy?

by Lori Samples Duncan

F

ibromyalgia produces widespread body pain and tender points in joints, ligaments, muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues. Fibromyalgia has also been linked to fatigue, exhaustion from head to toe, morning stiffness, sleep problems, headaches, numbness in hands and feet, depression, anxiety, jaw pain, and IBS. In addition, they also feel that someone has unplugged their power supply.

Melinda Bydalek

Fibromyalgia can develop on its own or along with other musculoskeletal conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, lupus or post-injury infection, postsurgery or after post traumatic stress per experts in the Fibromyalgia field.

I am 56 years old. I suspect I have had Fibromyalgia for 28 years. I was diagnosed 7 years ago. What has been the most difficult aspect of fibromyalgia (for me) is the pain.

It is very difficult to describe for you the difference in quality of life that Hima Dalal of Vital Energy makes unless you experience it yourself.

Having been the beneficiary of her excellent care myself, I thought we would try to do the next best thing. I asked a few of her patients to share with us a little about their personal experience with Hima Dalal – Occupational Therapist and so much more.

When I am in pain, it is hard to deal with, especially the inability to continue to do the things that I want to do. I would like to spend more time with my grandchildren but you just can’t do as much as you want to do.

Melinda

LW: How has Vital Energy and specifically Hima helped you with this aspect of the disease?

Melinda: She has taught me and shown me how to help myself to decrease muscle pain and stiffness, diet for example, to avoid triggers, breathing and

When I am in pain, it is hard to deal with, especially the inability to continue to do the things that I want to do. yoga stretches. The breathing is very helpful for me. I am now able to do twenty five minutes on the underwater treadmill twice a week, which I was unable to before. Understanding how the body functions and what I can do myself at home to help between visits has been a big part of coping for me. I can now sleep. I am more flexible

• Weight Loss

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• Male and Female Personal Trainers

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Sneh Patel Exercise Physiologist

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Email: vitalenergyfitness@gmail.com

• Nutritional Consulting • Ayurvedic Diet

• Under Water Treadmill • Aqua Detox

www.vitalenergyfitness.com 163 B Charter Oak Road Lexington, SC 29072 44

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Health & Wellness and I am not in nearly as much pain. When I have bad spells, I try to come an extra time or two and that makes a difference as well.

LW: What would you like people to know about Fibromyalgia?

Melinda: I would really like people to know that just because they don’t see an injury or a break it doesn’t mean that an injury isn’t there. You can look in someone’s eyes and see pain. I would like for people to have patience and understanding where this disease is concerned.

Sharon Lasiewicki I was diagnosed 11 months ago, and I am 33 years old.

LW: What is the most difficult part of this disease for you?

Sharon: The most difficult part of Fibromyalgia for me is the fact it has affected my entire life. I was an athlete all-star, very physically active my entire life. My

Sharon

Occupational Therapy

husband, my daughter and I, we did everything together. I was no longer able to do any of those things. It completely debilitated me. I thought my life was over.

I had gone to seven doctors, I was sick for six months before they came up with a diagnosis and sent me to a rheumatologist. They told me I was crazy and depressed. I had a hard time breathing, I couldn’t move my arms and my husband was taking me to every doctor that could possibly help us. They were slamming doors in my face.

He was telling them this isn’t her. We were athletic, social; anywhere we could go we went. No one would listen to him.

Without those tools, my family and the doctors who are treating me now I wouldn’t be where I am at today. I can get out of bed again.

LW: What is your wish about Fibromyalgia Awareness?

Sharon: I wish there was more education out there for family doctors, to say we aren’t crazy.

To educate them about the fact we aren’t just depressed. This is a real disease and if someone is hurting and there family is telling you, “this is not her” there is something wrong. I know they are still gathering data together for this disease,

LW: How did Vital Energy Therapy and Hima Dalal help you?

Sharon: Vital Energy Therapy has helped me tremendously, just with the attitude of you are going to get better. The support group meetings, the stories that Hima shares, and her magic hands!

Everything that she has done has helped. Her energy work and the exercises that she has given me to do at home have been a big part of (getting me where I am today) where I can do things on my own to help myself as well.

Physical Therapy

Hima Dalal and Sharon Lasiewicki

Our goal is to achieve mental and physical wellness through our combination of Complementary/Alternative therapies with traditional Occupational Therapy.

OUR SERVICES INCLUDE: • Occupational Therapy • Physical Therapy

Pediatric Therapy

Aquatic Therapy

• Sports Physical Therapy • Reiki Therapy • Pediatric Therapy • Aqua Therapy

• Fibromyalgia/Chronic Fatigue Syndrome • Chronic/Acute Pain • Migraine Headache Treatment • Yoga/Personal Fitness • Neuro/Ortho Injury Rehab

• Scoliosis Rehab • Myofascial Release Treatment and Craniosacral Therapy • Rheumatoid/Osteoarthritis Therapy Underwater Treadmill

Hima N. Dalal

Reiki Treatment

Occupational Therapist Reiki and Myofascial Release Consultant Sports Personal Fitness Consultant

• Work Reconditioning

• Hand Therapy

• TMJ Therapy

• Cancer Rehab

www.vitalenergytherapy.com FM/CFS Support Group Meets Monthly

803.359.1551

163 Charter Oak Road Lexington, SC 29072 www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

45

Health & Wellness

Katherine Dentistry for the Whole Family!

Children are welcome! (ages 1 and up)

www.whiteknolldentistry.com

Call us at

(803) 359-3245 today for an appointment

5545 Platt Springs Road Lexington, SC 29073

Dr. Melissa Kaufholz

I just wish they weren’t afraid to diagnosis it. To stand behind it and say I am going to support you and you are going to be okay. More information, more education, ER doctors, internists, pulmonologists, ENT’s everyone. It affects every part of your body. Each doctor was just looking at one part of my body and not realizing that this disease was affecting each part of me.

Ms. Hima was able to explain how it was all put together. The quality of my life has greatly improved. I am still working on it. I am still having a difficult time with a lot of things, but I am not in pain 24/7 and I have more of a balance in my life. I am able to exercise more.

It is a slow process and when you aren’t diagnosed quickly, you just keep going farther down.

Katherine Koon I am 27, I was diagnosed 3 years ago with Fibromyalgia.

New Patients Welcome!

Happy Holidays –

from our family to yours!

— Lexington Woman Magazine!

46

Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

LW: What was the most difficult part of Fibromyalgia for you?

Katherine: The most difficult part was learning how to pace yourself. You want to do everything you could do before, and go at 110 percent all the time.

Learning to let go or say “that’s ok” if that doesn’t get done, “life is going to go on if you don’t get to do everything you think you ought to do.”

LW: How has Vital Energy helped you?

Katherine: When you walk in the door, the music, the atmosphere, the relaxation that they bring to your day is like a breath of fresh air, you come in and you see smiling faces; you also see pain as well….You are not the only one who is waiting until that moment when they get in here and can let everything else

Julia

I have come a long way with her help.

go. I think a lot of it is, yes the physical things that she is able to do really helps. It is also the mental aspect as well.

Having that mental break and knowing you can always count on it. That is a large part of what I feel Vital Energy has helped me with. When I first started coming it was an hour appointment three or more times a week. Now it is an hour once a week. I have come along way with her help.

LW: What would you like others to know about this disease?

Katherine: I wish that people understood it is not just the pain, and the fatigue. It is the fear of where you are now and where you think you might be stuck in. It happens so suddenly and your life changes and I am going to be like this forever. If people would understand it’s one of those things you have to work your way through. It’s not that you are crazy or that you are making things up it’s just a battle you have to fight with your body.

Julia Pitts I am age 16 and was diagnosed in January 2010.

LW: What has been the worst aspect of Fibromyalgia for you?

Julia: It was definitely the pain, going to the doctor all the time. Missing so much school.

LW: How has coming to Vital Energy Helped you?

Julia: It’s really helped. The exercise has really helped me. Working with Ms. Hima, I am not sure what she does but it has really helped. I have missed much less school this year because of Ms. Hima’s help.

Business & Web Directory Animal Hospital Grace Pets Animal Hospital........................................................... 36 www.gracepets.com Attorney Kinard & Jones, LLC....................................................................... 31 www.kinardandjones.com The Law Office of Richard Breibart, LLC..................................... 35 www.palmettofamilylaw.com Boutique/Salon Cho on Main...................................................................................... 4 www.choonmain.com Dentist Palmetto Comprehensive Dentistry.............................................. 41 White Knoll Dentistry.................................................................... 46 www.whiteknolldentistry.com Entertainment Colonial Center............................................................................... 13 www.coloniallifearena.com

“ Joy is not in things; it is in us.”

– Benjamin Franklin

Monkey Joe’s.................................................................................... 37 www.monkeyjoes.com/lexington Health Services Chemo with Style............................................................................ 29 www.chemowithstyle.com Emmaus MedSurg Clinic............................................................... 42 www.emmausclinic.com Midland Hearing Associates.......................................................... 43 www.midlandhearing.com SC Ovarian Cancer Foundation.................................................... 23 www.scOvarianCancer.org South Carolina Oncology Association......................................... 22 www.sconcology.net The Medical Place Family Practice............................................... 39 www.themedicalplacefp.com Vital Energy Fitness Studio............................................................ 44 www.vitalenergyfitness.com Vital Energy Wellness and Rehab Center.................................... 45 www.vitalenergytherapy.com Home Decor and Gifts The Eclectic House.......................................................................... 33 www.theeclectichouse.com Hospital Lexington Medical Center............................................. Back Cover www.lexmed.com Hotels Holiday Inn & Suites......................................................................... 6 www.holidayinn.com/westcolumbia Wingate by Wyndham.................................................................... 13 www.lexingtonwingate.com

OB/GYN Columbia Women’s Healthcare..................................................... 25 www.columbiawhc.com Medical Park OB/GYN................................................................... 41 www.lexmed.com Personal and Sports Training Athletes Arena................................................................................. 17 www.athletesarena.com Photography Clark Berry Photography.................................. Front Inside Cover www.clarkberry.com Realtor Sally Lucas Homes.......................................................................... 35 www.sallylucashomes.com Restaurants Cotton Grill...................................................................................... 14 www.cottongrill.com Mediterranean Café........................................................................ 12 www.medcafelexsc.com Thai Wasabi...................................................................................... 37 www.thaiwasabi.net

Jewelry Dems................................................................................................. 20 www.demsjewelers.com

Travinia Italian Kitchen.................................................................... 3 www.traviniaitaliankitchen.com

The Chapman Company.................................................................. 8 www.thechapmancompany.com

Scrapbooking Scrapbook Utopia............................................................................ 32

Marketing Services The Tyler Ryan Group...................................................................... 9 www.tylerryangroup.com

Sports and Recreation Lexington County Recreation and Aging Commission............. 29 www.lcrac.com www.lexingtonwomanonline.com

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A Personal Note

O

n September 5th, I made a trip to Atlanta Georgia for a serious surgery for my niece Hailey. It was a spinal procedure. Knowing there would be hours of waiting, I stopped at a local store and picked up a copy of little book called The Seventeen Second Miracles. I was in truth looking for something that I could easily read during the surgery. I didn’t want to spend hours with my mom watching the clock tick.

My mom is an avid reader and I knew she would bring a book to read while we waited. I bought her a book too, so we both had something on hand. It looked like a simple read and the back cover is what drew me to this little yellow paperback. It talked about how a seventeen second decision changed this man’s life. I immediately wanted to know what could have impacted him so greatly in mere seconds.

By the prologue I was hooked. I had laughed and shed tears within a matter of pages.

I want you to know that I think that this is one of those books that could change your life. I believe it has mine. I don’t want to spoil it for you, so I can’t go into much detail.

All I can tell you is even my children know and recognize something has changed.

For example Colton asked if we could take our leftovers to the homeless for Thanksgiving instead of throwing them away or eating them for a week!

I like to think I have always been a good person. I try to help people when I know they need it and I try to always be kind to others. I try to give people the benefit of the doubt, even when I have my doubts.

Now I can label it, have “Teachable” moments with my children. The other day we were in the car and Trey looked over at me and said, “Mom, I want to read this book that has you bringing gas to people on the side of the road and buying turkey’s for complete strangers.”

I laughed to myself because I want him to read it. I want him to understand the importance of learning the janitors name at his school or smiling at someone who has never smiled at him. I want all of them to know how a split second decision could change yours and possibly someone else’s life for better or worse.

I love the quote that says, “Life is not measured by the number of breaths we take but by the moments that take our breath away.” This quote is credited to Hilary Cooper, and I find this to be so true. I can remember many times in my life when a kind word was spoken just in time, or at a moment when I could not have felt lower. I wonder if today I will speak the kind words that came at the right second that a fellow human being needed to hear it….. I may never know the impact of my seventeen second miracles. I may never see or hear from those people again, and that is okay. My blessing comes from knowing I did what I did because it was the right thing to do. It may be as simple as a sincere compliment, or as big as missing something important to me to help someone else with something that is critical to them. In that moment the smallest of things might be the greatest of things to the person who is receiving the kindness.

I hope your holiday season is filled with many seventeen second miracles. I hope you read the book, and make some miracles for someone. I would love to hear the stories of your miracles, send me an email and let me know what you thought. Six readers will be chosen for a special article in our 2011 1st issue for an open discussion about The Seventeen Second Miracle by John Wright. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Your friend,

Lori Samples Duncan Editor-in-Chief

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women

Acts 20:35 NIV In everything I did, I showed you that by this kind of hard work we must help the weak, remembering the words the Lord Jesus himself said: “It is more blessed to give than to receive.”

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I’m a breast cancer survivor… a patient advocate… a mother… a patient of Lexington Medical Center.

Kelly Jeffcoat, Breast Cancer Nurse Navigator

Women’s Services at Lexington Medical Center was created for all the women you are.

www.lmcWomensServices.com

When it comes to breast cancer, Kelly Jeffcoat has an interesting perspective. Not long after coming to work at Lexington Medical Center as a breast cancer advocate, she was diagnosed herself.

With her extensive oncology nursing background, she had long held a passion for helping patients. You’ll find many people like Kelly here, where Women’s Services at Lexington Medical Center offers women the finest care available. Anywhere.

Lexington Medical Center has recently been awarded accreditation from the National Accreditation Program for Breast Centers (NAPBC).

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Celebrating, Motivating and Educating

Real Women