LIFESTYLE LETTER
Lifestyle Letter
In this season of giving thanks, we often find ourselves reflecting on the many blessings in our lives. The true spirit of Thanksgiving encourages the conscious expression of gratitude, as our featured writer Dr. April Schulte-Barclay reminds us in this month’s edition.
After my mom died, we struggled with how to “do” Thanksgiving and Christmas. My mom made it an event where grandma’s good china was pulled out, candles lit the table and we all sat down and said grace. We’d have deep fried a turkey and all the excitement that goes along with that. We celebrated in Silverthorne and my brother's fam and I even celebrated in Mexico one year. After many years of different styles and locations for Thanksgiving, we have now gathered at my house the last few years. My brother perfected smoking meats during COVID, so he smokes a turkey, the rest of the family brings a side dish and I fill in the rest. I love having my house full of the rich smells of the standard Thanksgiving dishes and I am grateful for my family filling the downstairs. I have it pretty good.
Our November issue is dedicated to stories of gathering, gratefulness and giving back to our community. We are so thankful for the residents and businesses in our community who support so many wonderful organizations and help make our city the vibrant community that it is. We are especially thankful for our advertising partners who help bring this magazine to your doorsteps each month. They are part of our vision and purpose of bringing inspiring stories and the good news of the community directly to you. This holiday season as we prepare to gather with our loved ones, and in the true spirit of thanksgiving, let’s set time aside to consider what truly makes life meaningful and stop to reflect on those blessings.
Blessings to you and your family,
MAGGIE MOORLAND, EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
@GRANDJUNCTIONLIFESTYLE
November 2024
PUBLISHER
Scott Fairbanks | scott.fairbanks@citylifestyle.com
EDITORIAL COORDINATOR
Maggie Moorland maggie.moorland@citylifestyle.com
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Tiffinie Storm, Maggie Moorland, April Schulte-Barclay, DAOM, L.Ac., Dipl.Ac.
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHER
Matt Wood
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THREEWAYS TOGIVE
GRATITUDE IN ACTION
ARTICLE BY TIFFINIE STORM
Time is a valuable commodity that we can share.
Although it can be a sacrifice for us, it is always a gift to others.
It’s that time of year again, when the colors start changing, the evenings are crisp and we start preparing for the holiday season. This is also the time of year when we become a little more focused on the art of Gratitude.
Gratitude is something we should be practicing all year long; however, the fall season seems to bring it to the forefront of our thinking. November is a time when we see the bounty of our harvests, the gathering of family and friends, and to celebrate all that we are grateful for.
When we think of Gratitude we think of giving. There are so many ways to give, but I’d like to share 3 ways in particular.
First, the giving of our time. This is a fastpaced world, with endless things to fill our day. In the famous words of Ferris Bueller “Life moves pretty fast. If you don’t stop and look around once in a while, you could miss it.” Time is a valuable commodity that
we can share. Although it can be a sacrifice for us, it is always a gift to others.
It doesn’t have to be difficult. Here are a few ideas.
1. Put together a care package. With Hurricane Helene causing such devastation, there are lots of charities who are collecting anything they can to take to those who have suffered from the hurricane. Toiletries, clothing, necessities that are hard to come by. Whatever you can think of, they are in need of.
2. Clothing and Food Drives. As the weather shifts to the cooler temperatures, we can clean out our closets of the excess we might have and donate to the local organizations that provide clothing for those who might be in need. Food drives are frequent this time of year. The local food bank and other charities are always needing donations to feed and give to the community.
Encouraging, motivating and helping others is a great way to benefit others by using your talent.
3. Clean up trash in the local parks, along the highway and in your neighborhood. Make sure to be safe while doing this. Wear gloves and be careful of the surroundings.
4. Clean the house of someone you know who is sick, pregnant, or elderly. Help them with their home, inside and out. With cooler weather comes leaves and debris that need to be picked up in their yards. Help them prepare for the colder months.
5. Visit a local hospital. Volunteers who are willing to visit people who are in the hospital, bring comfort to those who are scared and suffering in ways we can’t imagine.
Second is the giving of our treasure. I know times are hard right now. Groceries, gas, everything really, has gone up exponentially. However, giving of the bounty we have, makes a world of difference to those who don’t. Here are a few ways to help in this capacity as well.
1. Save a little extra and take it to the grocery store or a restaurant with you. Find someone in the grocery line or restaurant to bless by paying for their items or meal. Pay for the person’s order behind you in the line at a fast-food restaurant or your favorite coffee place.
2. Sponsor a family or child. There are many organizations that can help find a family or child that is need. Referrals from people you know, or from your church community can help you find a way to be a sponsor.
3. Offer a more generous amount to your church. Many churches have donation plates or a way to give to those in your church family who are in need. This is a great way to give a little extra.
Third, is the giving of our talent. By this, I mean by sharing our expertise in
something we can teach or help others with. First, consider what you may be good at. That way you know exactly where your skills can help the most. Once you decide what this might be, choose where you can help. Here are a few ideas.
1. Online tutoring. With the internet so available, there are endless platforms or channels you can help with educating others. Create content and share it through your social media platform. The many schools in this area are always looking for people willing to help our youth learn specific skills.
2. Look into what the Community is needing. Offer your expertise and share with the community. The local University is looking for specific ways to assist the college students that need help with a particular skill.
3. Join support groups. Support groups are created to help others overcome challenges they may be facing. Maybe you have dealt with similar issues and have great ideas on how to overcome them. Encouraging, motivating and helping others is a great way to benefit others by using your talent.
This time of year is more focused on gratitude and giving to others. So many in our community are in need of these gifts, be it time, treasure or talent. Let’s open our hearts and be willing to go out of our way to give to those in our families, community or country. The giving of these things might not seem like a lot, but, IT IS a lot to those who are receiving them.
For inspiration on how you can put your gratitude in action, visit United Way of Mesa County's list of volunteer opportunities in the Grand Valley at unitedwaymesacounty.org/volunteer
SEASON OF Thanks
Our local community offers a wealth of activities that let us connect with one another, appreciate the beauty of the season, and give back in meaningful ways. Whether you’re getting ready for a feast by running the Turkey Trot or shopping local crafts, there’s something for everyone this month.
TEDXGRANDJUNCTION: "ALL THINGS AWESOME"
• Date: November 9th at 9:00AM
• Location: The Art Center of Western Colorado, 1803 N. 7th Street, Grand Junction, CO
Celebrate talent and creativity with TEDxGrandJunction. TEDxGrandJunction is back with a dynamic event celebrating innovation, creativity, and incredible achievements. "All Things Awesome" will showcase groundbreaking ideas across various fields, from technology to art, featuring talks by visionary leaders and live performances that inspire and captivate. Whether you're a creator, innovator, or someone who loves fresh perspectives, this event will leave you feeling energized and connected.
FRUITA SMALL BUSINESS SATURDAY & DOWNTOWN HOLIDAY LIGHTING
• Date: November 23, 2024
• Hours: Small Business Saturday: 10:30 AM – 6:30 PM, Holiday Lighting: 5:30 PM – 7:00 PM
• Location: Aspen Ave, Fruita, CO
Celebrate the season by shopping local during Small Business Saturday, supporting local artists and businesses while finding the perfect holiday gifts. As evening falls, watch downtown Fruita light up for the holidays with Santa’s help. Be sure to stick around for carriage rides and photos with Santa.
ARTICLE BY MAGGIE MOORLAND
Enjoy Local Traditions
THE ART CENTER'S ANNUAL HOLIDAY FINE ART & CRAFT FAIR
• Date: November 23-24, 2024
• Hours: 10:00 AM – 3:00 PM
• Location: The Art Center, 1803 North 7th Street, Grand Junction, CO
• Cost: Free
Browse an array of handcrafted items from local artists at this holiday art fair. From jewelry and ceramics to textiles and more, it’s a great way to find unique gifts while supporting the local art community. Admission is free, making it a perfect family outing for the weekend.
DOWNTOWN TREE LIGHTING
• Date: November 23, 2024, 5:00 PM – 7:00 PM
• Location: 4th + Main Plaza, Downtown Grand Junction, CO
Ring in the holiday season with the Downtown Tree Lighting in Grand Junction. Watch Santa bring the tree and Main Street to life with a wave of his hand, and enjoy the festive atmosphere of the plaza as kids line up for visits with Santa.
GRAND JUNCTION FIRE FIGHTERS FOUNDATION 5K GJ TURKEY TROT & LITTLE GOBBLER KIDS RUN
• Date: Thanksgiving Morning, November 28, 2024
• Location: Lincoln Park Barn, Grand Junction, CO
Kick off your Thanksgiving Day by supporting the Grand Junction Fire Fighters Foundation! The Little Gobbler Kids Run starts at 9:00 AM for kids 8 and under, and the 5K Turkey Trot follows at 9:30 AM, winding through beautiful downtown Grand Junction. Registration fees vary by age, and all runners receive a long sleeve shirt if registered by November 24. Join us for a day of community spirit and family fun!
Our local community offers a wealth of activities that let us connect with one another, appreciate the beauty of the season, and give back in meaningful ways.
NUTCRACKER! MAGICAL CHRISTMAS BALLET
• Date: November 26th at 7:00PM
• Location: Avalon Theatre, 645 Main Street, Grand Junction, CO
Experience the timeless magic of The Nutcracker with breathtaking ballet performances set to Tchaikovsky’s iconic score. This enchanting holiday production brings to life a winter wonderland filled with dazzling costumes, graceful dancers, and beloved scenes like the Sugar Plum Fairy and the Dance of the Snowflakes. Perfect for all ages, it’s a family-friendly holiday tradition that will leave everyone feeling festive and inspired.
CIRQUE MUSICA HOLIDAY WONDERLAND
• Date: December 1st at 7:00PM
• Location: Avalon Theatre, 645 Main Street, Grand Junction, CO
Step into a world of enchantment with Cirque Musica Holiday Wonderland! Celebrating its 15th anniversary, this magical holiday extravaganza blends circus artistry with beloved holiday music. Expect awe-inspiring acrobatics, aerial feats, and talented musicians as the show takes you on a spectacular journey of music, marvel, and merriment. With new costumes, music, and storylines, it’s the perfect family-friendly event to ignite the festive spirit! Tickets available through the Avalon Theatre.
Meet Sally: In 2020, at the age of 18, Sally came to FAM, homeless, alone, and scared FAM was able to assist with housing through the Fostering Youth to Independence housing voucher and provide ongoing support and resources Within a year she and her husband were financially stable and paying full rent In August 2024, they purchased their first home!
fosteralumnimentors.org
Embracing Gratitude
ARTICLE BY APRIL SCHULTE-BARCLAY, DAOM, L.AC., DIPL.AC.
CULTIVATING GRATITUDE FOR A HEALTHIER YOU
“You can find gratitude, and therefore healing, by taking one simple step. That step is to shift your focus to something that brings you joy.
By April Schulte-Barclay, DAOM, L.Ac., Dipl. Ac., Clinic Director, Doctor of Acupuncture and Oriental Medicine, Healing Horizons Integrated Health Solutions
Norman Vincent Peale said, “Change your thoughts and you change your world.”
Arguably, this may be a good time to change the world, one personal world at a time.
This time of year tends to be one of shifting our thoughts to that for which we are thankful. Being thankful cultivates the powerful human emotion of gratitude, and living in gratitude can make a tremendous difference in how you feel mentally, emotionally and physically.
After practicing acupuncture for 20 years, I have noticed it is within a state of ease that healing occurs. Living in a general state of thankfulness, or gratitude, shifts your body’s energy and allows the nervous system to find ease. While we quite often cannot control our stressors, we
“Studies have shown a direct correlation between gratitude and brain health. Perhaps most notable is the increased production of the feel-good chemicals serotonin and dopamine.
can most definitely change the way our bodies physiologically respond to stress. By finding gratitude, even during times of distress, hormones like cortisol are mediated, which reduces anxiety and increases a sense of well-being.
Studies have shown a direct correlation between gratitude and brain health. Perhaps most notable is the increased production of the feel-good chemicals serotonin and dopamine. When we feel gratitude, it leads to feelings of happiness and contentment. Having gratitude also increases neuroplasticity, meaning we can reconnect neural connections in a way that is ultimately more beneficial for our mental, emotional, and physical well-being.
When we are experiencing states such as depression, anxiety, and physical pain, our nervous system may feel as if it has no room for anything but suffering.
However, there is a secret to unveiling gratitude when you are feeling down in the dumps. You can find gratitude, and therefore healing, by taking one simple step. That step is to shift
“When we are experiencing states such as depression, anxiety, and physical pain, our nervous system may feel as if it has no room for anything but suffering.
your focus to something that brings you joy. For example, if you are concerned about finances, stressed relationships, or even the state of the world, instead of focusing on the injustices that may surround you, choose to focus on something that brings you joy. That joy may be soaking in the light of the sun, delighting in the sight of your neighbor’s flowers, noticing the blessedness that is a stranger’s smile, and appreciating the beat of your heart.
You can notice the benefits of gratitude in real time. It may be helpful to take a few moments to close your eyes and notice a positive shift in your how your mind, body, and emotions feel when you are able to tap into gratitude. Over time, developing a habit of feeling gratitude will result in improved digestion, more balanced hormones, less physical pain, improved mood and increased sense of well-being.
In closing, I am grateful to each one of you reading this article. I appreciate the contributions you make to our community by simply being you. Enjoy your life… you are worth it!
giving dip -
ARTICLE BY ANGELA BROOCKERD I PHOTOGRAPHY BY JANIE JONES
Fall is synonymous with gathering with friends and family and enjoying time together. Whether it is for Thanksgiving, a football watch party or a simple fall gathering, these easy appetizer dips are the perfect shareable snack.
fig & honey brie
The perfect cheesy fall dip that is both savory and sweet. The chopped pecans add a subtle crunch that makes this irresistible.
ingredients:
• 8 ounce brie wheel
• 1/3 cup fig spread or jam
• ¼ cup pecans
• 2 teaspoons honey
• 1 teaspoon fresh rosemary, chopped
• 1 teaspoon fresh parsley
directions: Place brie in a baking dish. Spread the fig spread on top of brie and sprinkle with chopped pecans. Drizzle with honey. Add fresh herbs, and bake at 350 degrees for 20 minutes. Serve with pita chips or crackers.
loaded hummus
This crowd-pleaser can be made in advance for easy entertaining.
hummus ingredients:
• 2 cans of garbanzo beans (chickpeas), drained
• Juice from one lemon (or ¼ cup)
• 1/3 cup water
• 1 garlic clove, minced
• ½ teaspoon cumin
• ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper
• ½ teaspoon salt
• ¼ teaspoon pepper
• 1 tablespoon olive oil
toppings:
• Olives
• Cherry tomatoes
• Chickpeas
• Feta cheese
• Red onion
• Fresh Parsley
directions:
In a blender, add all of the ingredients except the olive oil and the toppings. Blend until smooth. Spread Hummus onto a plate or platter and top with chopped toppings. Serve with fresh bell peppers, zucchini, crackers and pita bread.
ingredients:
• 8 ounces softened cream cheese
• 1 can pumpkin puree
• ¾ cup brown sugar
• 1 cup heavy whipping cream
• 1 tablespoon pumpkin pie spice
directions: Place cream cheese in a microwave safe bowl, and soften for 30 seconds. Add brown sugar and blend with a hand mixer until smooth. Add in pumpkin and blend until combined. Mix in heavy whipping cream and mix on high for 2 minutes. Next, stir in pumpkin pie spice. Serve with sliced apples, pretzels, graham crackers or vanilla wafers.
Nothing screams fall quite like the flavor of pumpkin. This lightly sweet dip takes just a few minutes to make and is perfect for any fall get-together.
creamy pumpkin cheesecake dip
garlic herb feta dip
This savory dip is quick and easy to assemble and is perfect to serve with fresh veggies or crackers of any kind.
ingredients:
• ½ cup plain Greek yogurt
• 1 whole garlic bulb, roasted
• 1 ¼ cup feta cheese
• 3 teaspoons olive oil
• 1 Tablespoon lemon juice
• ½ teaspoon dill
• 1 teaspoon parsley
• Salt and pepper to taste
directions:
First, cut the head off of the top of the garlic bulb, and drizzle olive oil on top. Wrap in foil, and place it in an oven heated to 425 degrees. Roast for 30 minutes or until soft. Squeeze roasted garlic into a bowl, and set aside. Next, add the yogurt, feta, lemon juice, salt, pepper and water in a blender and lightly blend. Add the roasted garlic and blend until smooth. Transfer to a serving dish and sprinkle with fresh herbs. Serve with crackers or fresh vegetables. Enjoy!
thanksgiving cornucopia
How To Decorate Tables With Noteworthy November Flair
ARTICLE BY JULIE BROWN PATTON
Whether traditional or modern, formal or fussfree, Thanksgiving centerpieces set a memorable ambiance for November gatherings.
deliciously edible
Make an edible bread cornucopia, ‘horn of plenty,’ for the Thanksgiving table using refrigerated bread or pizza dough, a plastic bottle mold and aluminum foil. Wrap the bottle with foil, make a tail at one end and then layer adjoining strips of dough on the foil. Brush cornucopia with melted butter, remove the plastic bottle and bake at 350 F for 25 to 30 minutes on the lower rack, or until it turns a golden, shiny brown. Fill with sweet or savory nibbles, such as fresh fruits, vegetables, gourds, nuts, rosemary breadstick twists or even cookies, for an impressive centerpiece that’ll keep guests happily munching while they wait for the main meal to begin.
florals can be gourd- geous
Or, get inspired from the following ideas and have fun creating a centerpiece completely customized.
• Slice and fill real squashes with floral foam to hold classic fall flowers, such as mums, pom-pom daisies and dahlias.
• For a pop of color on Thanksgiving tables, a large turquoise or pink pumpkin goes a long way.
• For a cranberry-filled vase, place a smaller glass cylinder inside a larger one, then pour fresh cranberries into the gap between the two vases. For flowers, mix a few grocery-store blooms with dried millet and faux dill blooms, or silk and dried flowers.
• An old dough bowl or wood trencher makes a great low centerpiece when filled with seasonal pumpkins, gourds, pinecones and flowering branches.
• Fill a stoneware sugar bowl with seeded eucalyptus, chrysanthemums and pears.
• Use one or a nest of baskets, floral foam and some blooms to craft a themed stunner.
• Incorporate family heirlooms by using an inherited (or thrifted) antique teapot, surrounded by other vintage finds.
• Stack two cake plates on top of each other with bite-size edibles; add other, shorter floral arrangements in pitchers or vases, if desired.
• Add soft candlelight with rustic textures of wood and lots of fall color via an assortment of fresh and faux gourds, silk sunflowers and dried seed pods.
use vintage finds
• Accentuate a beautiful vintage container, antique tins, teapots, pitchers and storage containers, for charming stand-ins for modern vases while adding a hand-me-down touch of family history to tables.
• Place a few blooms, in fall shades, in a clear water glass for a less complicated or casual look.
• Cut leaf shapes from colorful card stock and attach to bare branches gathered from the backyard; before the meal, ask guests to write what they’re most thankful for on the leaves, or just leave them blank.
THE PERFECT FALL TREAT
ACORN DONUT HOLES
ARTICLE BY MADELINE LEBLANC
As the vibrant colors of summer slowly yield to the warm and earthy hues of autumn, there’s a distinct charm in the air at the arrival of fall. It’s a season filled with the crisp rustling of leaves, cozy sweaters, and the promise of pumpkin-spiced everything. What better way to embrace the changing seasons than by indulging in a delightful treat that captures the essence of both summer’s sweetness and fall’s rich flavors?
My recipe for “Acorn Donut Holes” combines the light, airy sweetness of summer donuts with the warm, comforting tones of fall. Grab your ingredients and let’s get started!
Ingredients:
• Donut holes
• Melting chocolates
• Fall sprinkles
• Pretzels
Instructions:
1. Pour your fall sprinkles into a small bowl for dipping. Lay wax paper down.
2. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the melting chocolates in the microwave, about 15-20 seconds. Carefully watch to ensure they don’t burn.
3. Dip the top of each donut hole into the melted chocolate, covering about halfway down the donut.
4. After dipping, immediately dip the chocolate-covered portion of the donut hole into the bowl of sprinkles, coating it with the fall sprinkles.
5. Insert a pretzel into the top of the “acorn” to create the acorn stem.
6. Carefully place the decorated acorn donut holes on the wax paper to let them cool and allow the chocolate to set.
7. Once the chocolate has hardened, your acorn donut holes are ready to enjoy!
These delightful treats are perfect for fall and make for a fun and tasty dessert or snack. Enjoy!
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