Springfield Lifestyle April 2014 by City Lifestyle

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Editor's Letter

april 2014 publisher & sales director

his month we celebrate weddings. From the first “hello” to the moment you say “I do,” love is a journey. And since weddings are the beginning of that life-long journey of figuring out how to love and serve one another, I also wanted this issue to celebrate marriage as well.

Drew Mulder | DMulder@LifestylePubs.com 816.813.4681

editor Becca Mulder | Bmulder@Lifestylepubs.com 816.812.6299

contributing writers

For all of our brides to be, Writer Kathleen Blair shows how to pull off the wedding of your dreams with the latest trends for 2014. From invitations to photography and everything in between, our wedding feature unveils some exciting and unexpected new ideas to make your wedding uniquely you. I hope you enjoy the stories of two local couples, Chris & Bayli Ijames and Frank & Connie Romero. They open up about love and the realities of marriage, from how they both met to how they fell in love and everything in between. Such a fun journey for both of them.

Hona Amer, Kathleen Blair, Jenna Damron, Casey Gibbons, Stuart Hurd, Kimberly Stredney Published monthly, subscriptions are available: 1 year for $22 or 2 years for $39. Details at SpringfieldLifestylePubs.com

corporate team chief executive officer | Steven Schowengerdt chief sales officer | Matthew Perry

We have a special student to introduce to you, meet first grader Mikayla Pilley. This young girl has learned to enjoy the simple things in life by serving the less fortunate in her community. Read more about Mikayla on page 12.

chief financial officer | DeLand Shore national editor | Lisa Cooke Harrison director of marketing | Brad Broockerd national art director | Carrie Brophy

Hope to see you around town,

Becca Mulder , Editor Bmulder@lifestylepubs.com

executive assistant | Lori Cunningham application architect | Michael O’Connell it director | Randy Aufderheide

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Springfield Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of Springfield’s most affluent neighborhoods. Articles and advertisements do not necessarily reflect Lifestyle Publications’ opinions. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent. Lifestyle Publications does not assume responsibility for statements made by advertisers or editorial contributors. Information in Springfield Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

April 2014

Departments 8

Good Times

Around Town

Star Student

Parent’s Corner

Real Wives

Healthy Lifestyle

Sold Properties

Lifestyle Calendar

Parting Thoughts

14 When Little Girls Dream

How to teach your children about the real meaning of love and marriage.

16 The Latest in Wedding Trends

Ideas to create a unique and personalized wedding.

18 First Comes Love

Two local couples share their journeys to the altar.

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Good Times

2nd Annual Beer, Wine, Cheese and Chocolate Festival

More than 1300 guests enjoyed live cooking demonstrations from 100+ vendors and four educational seminars at Ozark Empire Fairgrounds. Several thousand dollars were raised for the local American Cancer Society. Photography Ozark Empire Fairgrounds

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Perfectionists, please take your seat. The moment you open the door of the 2014 Audi A8, it’s clear no detail was overlooked. It’s evident in the leather-wrapped, multifunction steering wheel. It’s in the unprecedented array of technologies that includes Audi MMI® touch with handwriting recognition and a worldfirst integration of Google Earth™ imagery. It’s in the rich woodwork that surrounds the spacious cabin. And it’s even in the seats, which not only massage but also offer 22 different dimensions of comfort.* Explore the many details of the incomparable Audi A8 at SpringfieldAudi.com

* 22-way power comfort seats are available on the A8 and A8 L, while standard on the A8 l W12. Distracted driving can cause loss of vehicle control. The features and technologies discussed above are offered for convenience, and should be used only when it is safe and appropriate. Always pay careful attention to the road, and do not drive while distracted. “Audi,” “A8,” “MMI,” “Truth in Engineering,” the Audi Singleframe grille design, and the four rings and Audi emblems are registered trademarks of AUDI AG. “Google Earth” is a trademark of Google Inc. 2014 Audi Of America, Inc.

Around Town Anonymous Donor Gives $750,000 to Brentwood Library A longtime patron of the Library District has given $750,000 to the Renew Brentwood capital campaign to renovate the Brentwood Branch Library. The gift was made through a transfer of stock on Dec. 30, 2013. The donor wishes to remain anonymous. “We are overwhelmed with the generosity of this gift,” says Library District Executive Director Regina Cooper. “It gives us a significant boost to Brentwood’s renovation campaign.” The donation toward the $2.5 million goal brings the total raised to $1.2 million. Once the major gifts phase raises about 80 percent of the goal, the Library Foundation will launch a public campaign to top off the fundraising. Construction will begin after that.

Cardinals Baseball is Back! Perched for their tenth year in Springfield, the Springfield Cardinals invite you to celebrate the 2014 season opening night on April 3. The Double-A affiliate of the 11-time World Champion St. Louis Cardinals, our Springfield Cardinals start their season at 7:10 p.m. at Hammons Field, two-time Double-A Field of the Year. Come game day the Cardinals will be playing the San Antonio Missions. Both teams are former Texas League champions which should make for a great start. The Expedia Redbird Roos is new this season, a result of a partnership with Expedia. Watch the redbirds from this suite-level venue overlooking the third base line and enjoy the game with unlimited ball park food. Hammons Field has promotions and packages for every event, so make sure to get your passes, tickets and parties at 417.863.0395 or online at MILB.com for ticket information. Come to see the next Allen Craig, Casey Rasmus or John Jay work through the Cardinals system on their way to St. Louis.

Food For Fines Nets 7,172 lbs. of Food for Families Library patrons enjoyed a creative way to pay off their overdue fines by donating food during the fifth Food For Fines campaign for Ozarks Food Harvest. For each item of nonperishable food a person donated, librarians waived 50 cents from their overdue fines. The popular campaign brought in 7,172 lbs. of food to all 10 library branches and the Mobile Library, and librarians waived $3,189.94 in fines they normally would have collected for overdue items. The 7,172 lbs. of food will provide 5,976 meals for families served by the regional food bank. 10 Springfield Lifestyle | April 2014

Big Read to Feature Author Don Mann Loyalty, perseverance and survival of the fittest personify the life of Don Mann, a decorated combat veteran, SEAL Special Operations technician and author of Inside Seal Team Six: My Life and Missions With America’s Elite Warriors. So it’s fitting that Mann is the keynote speaker for the April Big Read devoted to the Jack London classic, The Call of the Wild.” Mann will give a talk, “Call of the Wild: An Evening with Military Survivalist and Adventurer Don Mann” at 7 p.m. Thursday, April 24, at the Springfield Art Museum. The event is free and open to the public, and reservations are not required. For more information call Community Relations, 417.616.0564. Mann is a training coordinator for several civilian SEAL training programs and is a former training officer of SEAL Team 6, which carried out the assassination of Osama bin Laden. Other books include Seal Team Six: Hunt the Wolf, his debut military thriller. Reserve those and Mann’s other titles through CoolCat.org and make plans to meet the author.

James Blake Joins Springfield Lasers The Springfield Lasers have drafted American tennis star James Blake. Blake, 34, reached a career-high ATP ranking of No. 4 in 2006, placing him just behind Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Nikolay Davydenko. He has earned 10 singles titles and seven doubles titles. Blake returns to the court after less than six months of retirement, announced last August after the US Open. Now returning for his eighth season of World Team Tennis, Blake was acquired by the Lasers in a pre-draft trade with the Boston Lobsters. Blake will play in two Springfield Lasers home matches. He is co-author of Breaking Back: How I Lost Everything and Won Back My Life, which reached No. 15 on New York Times Best Seller list. He is the founder of the James Blake Foundation, which has raised more than $1 million for cancer research since 2008.

added and Evangel gained university status. In 2004, Spence was honored for a “Career of Character” when the Chamber of Commerce named him Springfieldian of the Year. In 2012, he was honored by the Springfield Business Journal with their Lifetime Achievement in Business Award.

Evangel University President Robert H. Spence and the Concert Orchestra Long-time Evangel University President Dr. Robert H. Spence and the Evangel Concert Orchestra appeared together in ministry at Evangel. The repertoire of the concert orchestra included classical, sacred and contemporary Christian arrangements, as well as various vocal arrangements with an orchestral accompaniment. Spence is the longest-tenured college president in the State of Missouri and the second-longest in the nation. Under his leadership enrollment doubled, 10 master’s degree programs have been

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Star Student

A Unique Heart Young student learns value of giving early in life Article Becca Mulder | Photography Provided

t the age of 7, Mikayla Vanghn Pilley has already found out a key principle in life: the principle of giving to other less fortunate and being thankful for what you do have. At Mikayla’s 6th and 7th birthday parties she asked all of her friends to bring a new toy to donate to kids in need instead of a new present for herself. That is just one of many ways this young star chooses to give back. “I know some other kids aren’t as fortunate. Donating toys is something I can do to help,” says Mikayla. Sports are also a subject that Mikayla gets very excited to talk about. She says that sports are a way for her family to spend time together. She enjoys playing basketball, volleyball, softball, soccer, swimming and golf. She also takes gymnastics every week and goes hunting with her dad, Nathan. “I even get to talk about all of the sports I play on Talking Women’s Sports on Jock 98.7 once per month during 9,” says Mikayla.

12 Springfield Lifestyle | April 2014

“My favorite teams to watch are the St. Louis Cardinals and the Green Bay Packers.” Family is at the center of the Pilley family. Whether it is sports that bring them together or academics, this family prioritizes each other. Mikayla’s parents and grandparents who live six streets down, will all tell you they’ve got a special little girl on their hands. She is a busy, determined girl with plans. “I want to keep playing as many sports as I can. I either want to be a doctor, music teacher, author, or a baker when I grow up,” she says. “Whatever I do, I want to keep helping people. I feel lucky because I have a great family, friends and grown-ups who have provided a lot of neat opportunities for me. I want to help others the way they have helped me.” If you know a Star Student that deserves to be recognized, email Bmulder@lifestylepubs.com.

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Parent’s Corner

Our 6-year-old Daughter’s Wedding Article Casey Gibbons

“D

addy, I want to marry you!” This has to be one of the sweetest statements that come from a young girl’s heart to her dad. Little did we know when one of our daughters said it, she meant it and had a plan to back it up. Kelly Grace was the tender age of six when she shared her desire to marry her daddy, Scotty. Her plans included a full wedding ceremony with a reception. We thought she was the cutest thing so we agreed to move forward not knowing what would unfold. What I didn’t realize was that after the ceremony (complete with a setting sun, scriptures, a ring and a daddy’s kiss), Kelly Grace truly believed she was now married! We knew this shortly after when I found every single one of her clothes in a pile in my closet. She had moved into my room. Furthermore, as she brushed her teeth in our bathroom she exclaimed, “This is going to be great all living in here together!” I began to wonder what all she was expecting. My thinking was interrupted by her sweet voice as she climbed up on my side of the bed. “So where are you going to sleep now, Mama?” Before I could let out an “Okay, this has been fun, but…” her Daddy said, “Oh sweet, Kelly Grace, you just come on in here with us and tell me your favorite part of our wedding today...” I remained silent but seriously wondered where he was going with this. Much to my delight, Scotty listened to her and reminisced about the wedding. Then he gently explained why the ceremony wasn’t a real wedding but was symbolic of what would perhaps happen for her one day as he prayed the man would love her as much as he did. He also went on to explain what genuine love 14 Springfield Lifestyle | April 2014

looks like after the wedding is over and how to live it out through the challenges of life. As parents, we have the priceless opportunity to be with our children and teens in the tender moments of guiding their minds and hearts in the area of relationships. Those times may come after a pretend or a real wedding, after a movie or a song plays, or a crush from school is expressed. No matter when it comes up, I encourage you to be an active and productive voice in directing your children in their understanding of true love and a healthy marriage. All of this begins at an early age as we lead in the developing years of our children so that when the time arrives they have a mature perspective and can make wise choices. Some ideas on how to take advantage of these teachable moments: Explain things you or others have learned or experienced so they can avoid or attain what you have lived. It may be as simple as explaining, “Looking back at having a boyfriend in early high school, I realized I missed out on some fun things with my friends as well as some freedom because I was too caught up in a relationship that seemed more important but actually ended in heartbreak that wasn’t worth what I had lost.” Or it can be as deep as “Right now we are facing a challenge in our marriage and it is difficult but we are doing all we can to get the help we need and resolve this because this family is worth fighting for.” Just being open and real with your child through life stories teaches volumes about how to make decisions and respond in the future. • Share your life stories with them.

Think through the values set before your kids in the music and shows that are apart of their lives. If what they are listening to and viewing is full of relational drama, multiple crushes and breakups, and being overly physical with someone not in a marriage then those standards are being set in their minds. On the other hand, when we see or hear things in the media that are valuable in a relationship such as a couple remaining faithful when it wasn’t easy or being respectful in how they speak of each other, we can highlight that and draw attention to the standard exemplified. Talk, examine, and ask questions about what is placed in front of your child and decide together if it is the value you want them to live out later.

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the latest in

trends Article Kathleen Blair

ts spring and a time many bride’s dreams come true of marrying a wonderful man and having a beautiful wedding. They’ve spent countless hours looking at bridal magazines, visiting bridal websites and making countless trips to get the right wedding gown, cake, flowers, caterer, music, invitations and the list goes on and on. With that in mind, here are some things for a bride-to-be to consider that may be a little different and can help make her day extra special.

Invitations

The formal invitations with tissue and multiple envelopes are no longer the norm. With the scrapbooking craze still big, invitations have taken on a new look which is more personalized and custom to the couple’s theme and interests. It’s a great time to be creative from the “Save the Date” cards to the actual invitation and R.S.V.P cards. Have fun with color, ribbon, lace, rhinestones and print images to create that special, personal invitation. Photography

Wedding photographer Heather Amer with HeatherCheriePhotography.com comments on her style in wedding photography. “My brides have a great appreciation for classic, timeless images that they will treasure for years and generations to come,” says Amer. “Wedding images that focus on connections and emotions between people throughout the wedding day will never go out of style. I continue to see a renewed value placed on family, traditions, and sentimental elements on the wedding day. Along with this shift, more brides have their images in print to display in their homes and modern albums to share with family and friends, rather than leaving their beautiful images on a disk or flash drive.” For more info email Heather at heather@heathercheriephotography.com Wedding Cake

Shimmer and glitz on a simple cake has made its debut. Burlap and lace are also making a comeback on the cake scene as well as the frosting look of crepe paper gathered into a flower. An initial monogram on the cake is another personalized touch to consider that is the same color as the frosting. Also, many brides still like a small tiered cake and have stacked cupcakes or a petite cake topped with a real flower to be the centerpieces at each table.

Flowers

The table centerpieces this year are unstructured as well as the bridal bouquets. Jewel tone colored f lowers are appearing in centerpieces. And, terrarium centerpieces are being shown with only a few blooms and lots of greenery under glass in all shapes and sizes. Clustering these as a centerpiece makes a beautiful tablescape. A touch of citrus garland is popular for decorating the bridal table or the cake table. The large bridal boutique has been replaced with a smaller version of different complimentary colors which separate it from those of the bridesmaids. Even petite nosegays are being shown in bridal magazines. Music

Romance is back and Big Bands are making the scene along with crystal chandeliers and beautiful china to decorate the table. You can Google to find ideas for a playlist to listen to before handing your personalized selections to a DJ or band. Dancing has grown more and more popular and couples, parents and bridal parties are making surprise debuts on the dance floor. For ideas, you can go to YouTube.com and search wedding dances. Attire

Brides are adding a bit of color to their wedding gown. Many incorporate a touch of blue to complete the tradition from the poem “Something old, something new, something borrowed something blue and a silver sixpence in her shoe”. Before the late 19th century, blue was a popular color for wedding gowns, as evidenced in proverbs like, “Marry in blue, lover be true.” Also popular this year is hints of pink and peach in pale blushes and nudes. Vows

Many couples still choose to stay with the traditional wedding vows where others want to be more cre-

ative and recite vows they have written or a poem they both like that reflects their love for each other. Food

Family style servings brought to the table have become an option to the buffet and formal meals. A table then shares a variety of entrees and vegetables. Another idea growing in popularity is serving a late night snack of chocolate covered pretzels, popcorn in multiple flavors, ice cream cups or pizza. Even the latest craze of food trucks have entered the wedding scene. Reception

This year, romance has made a larger presence in weddings with the lace, ribbon, sequins and chandeliers. If your budget won’t allow it on a grand scale, then add touches of it to your venue. And, to change things up, have a combination of different seating arrangements for a softer look. Combine round tables in the center with rectangle tables around the perimeter or make another shape with smaller tables staggered. A bridal table can be a small table for two with your bridal party sitting with their family and friends at the other tables. And soft floral patterns are making an appearance in linens. To stay organized, you can even order a wedding tote with pockets and compartments for all the samples and notes you have for your big day. It’s even monogrammed with the bride and groom’s first name and wedding date. For more information you can visit Exclusively Weddings on line. After all the preparation the day finally comes. Remember, the most important thing is it’s the bride and groom’s special day and whatever they choose is perfect because it makes them happy and the fairy tale wedding the bride has always dreamed of has come true. April 2014 | Springfield Lifestyle 17

first comes

Two local couples share their romantic journeys to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Happily Ever After.â&#x20AC;?

then comes

Article Jennifer Adamson Photography Heather Cherie Photography 18 Springfield Lifestyle | April 2014

f you’ve seen the movie The Notebook, it’s hard to forget the romance. Noah scales a Ferris wheel to get Allie’s attention. She runs through crashing ocean waves and leaps into his strong arms. They slow dance under a stoplight. Even after Allie chooses another man, Noah writes to her every day for a year. Then, there’s that lingering kiss in the rain. Hollywood teaches us that great love involves daring feats of bravery, grandiose gestures, and overcoming unlikely odds. But, great love is really just about finding someone who makes you happy and committing to spending your years together, as these two real-life couples prove.

Chris and Bayli Ijames Bayli Ijames was searching for a bargain when she walked into The Buckle seven years ago. Little did she know she’d spot the best deal of her life that day. Her future husband, Chris, was shopping there, too, when Bayli spied him a few feet away. “He caught my eye,” she says. “I just thought he was super attractive.” Bayli left the store without speaking to Chris and chalked up the instance to chance, but she couldn’t get his good looks out of her mind. She was shocked when she saw him at her church a month later. Over the next few weeks, Bayli figured out she and Chris both went to James River Church, their parents knew each other, and they had both signed up to participate in an upcoming mission trip to Nicaragua. With the whole outreach team gathered at the church’s Fourth of July celebration, Bayli and Chris met face-to-face for the first time. He helped her make change. “I just felt comfortable around him in some sort of weird way,” Bayli says. “I saw he was the real deal, that he appeared to really have what I’m looking for and seemed like a true Christian guy.” She began to think differently of that moment in the clothing store. “I think God was setting it up,” she says.

In Nicaragua, Chris saw beyond Bayli’s blonde hair and blue eyes and got to know her heart as she helped build houses and made balloon animals with kids. “That’s what was really attractive to me,” he says. Once back home, they had dated almost a year when Chris first told Bayli he loved her. For the next five months, Bayli waited for her boyfriend to propose. “We had talked about getting married, and I couldn’t figure out what was taking so long,” she says, not realizing then that her soon-to-be fiancée was saving money for a ring and planning an intimate engagement she would never forget. In the fall of 2012, Chris invited Bayli to dinner at the Tower Club in downtown Springfield. He escorted her to a dining room on the top floor, empty except for a single table and two chairs, and a television. With the couple’s favorite song playing, the television showed a photo montage of their journey together, ending with Chris, on screen, sharing his feelings for her. That’s when she knew – and said yes. On July 13, 2013, Chris and Bayli had a traditional wedding inside Drury University’s Stone Chapel. They returned to continued >

April 2014 | Springfield Lifestyle 19

first comes love (continued)

the Tower Club for their reception. This time, the celebration was less private but equally as memorable. Though they are still newlyweds, Chris and Bayli say being married hasn’t been a huge transition for them, since they knew each other so well before tying the knot. They hope studying their parents’ Biblical marriages will keep their own strong and that their relationship will encourage other couples one day. “Christ is the foundation of our relationship,” says Chris. “If we’re unsure about something, we go to God about it.” “We know that even when it gets hard, we have each other,” says Bayli. “Divorce isn’t an option for us. I will always have the security that he’s there, that he’s not going to leave.”

Frank and Connie Romero Frank Romero proposed to his wife, Connie, in the driveway. They’d just gotten home from dinner. He got out, walked around, got down on one knee, and asked her to marry him. “It didn’t go the way I planned it in my head, but I guess that’s better,” he says. “Sometimes, you think about it so much and want it to be a certain way, but it wasn’t about a show.” He tried to pop the question at the restaurant, outside on the patio where they had their first date, but Connie had worn jeans and didn’t want to be hot that summer night. “I was not cooperative,” she says. “I didn’t make it easy for him.” But, she didn’t mind Frank’s matter-of-fact delivery. 20 Springfield Lifestyle | April 2014

“I didn’t need a story to tell people,” she says. “I just wanted to marry him.” You might say such a simple proposal is symbolic of Frank and Connie’s uncomplicated relationship. As adults in their 40s, they’ve each had life experiences that have made them wiser and more aware of themselves as individuals. In fact, that’s what attracted Connie to Frank in the first place. “I could see he was a very functioning individual by himself,” she says. “He wasn’t a man looking for a woman because he didn’t want to do things for himself, like clean or cook or take care of his kids.”

Frank was looking for the same quality in a companion. “I liked the fact that she was very independent, as well,” he says. “I was looking for someone who complements me but who doesn’t…” “…complete you,” finishes Connie. “It’s kind of nice to want to be with someone but not need to be with someone.” Ironically, Frank and Connie found each other while working together at Cox Hospital. Frank was acting as medical director of a group Connie was asked to lead, which required constant interaction and cooperation between the two, and business dinners began giving them a chance to get to know each other socially. They soon realized how compatible they are. “We just conversed easily and enjoyed our time together,” says Connie. “We could sit and talk for hours.” After dating for three years, Frank proposed. Details for the wedding came together quickly and this time, all did go according to plan. On December 28, 2013, Frank and Connie exchanged vows during a very formal and elegant nuptial Mass at St. Joseph’s Catholic Church in Springfield. Their reception took place at the Veridian in Center City and was followed by a honeymoon in the Cayman Islands, the perfect locale to satisfy a shared love of warm climates. For the past three months, the Romeros have been discovering other things about each other, too, like how glad they are to have set realistic expectations for their marriage.

Great love is really just about finding someone who makes you happy and committing to spending your years together, as these two real-life couples prove.

“Many couples believe their partner’s behaviors, personality, or character will change, but people really don’t change that much, not at their core,” says Connie. She and Frank both recommend talking about hot topics, like politics, money, and religion, before taking the plunge. “You will likely not have the same perspective on everything,” says Connie. “Just make sure you can respect the differences and learn how to compromise.”

About the Photographer Heather, owner of Heather Chérie Photography, is passionate about family. She believes that family is one of God’s greatest gifts. She loves developing a relationship with the bride and groom and documenting their love and growing family for years to come. Heather is a sought after local and destination wedding photographer. She also offers lifestyle sessions, including maternity, newborn, children, family, and high school seniors. Her wedding photography has been featured in 417 magazine, Metropolitan Bride, Grey Likes Weddings blog, Elizabeth Anne Designs blog, and Engaged & Inspired blog. To inquire about Heather’s wedding packages or to book an upcoming session, visit HeatherCheriePhotography.com or e-mail her at Heather@HeatherCheriePhotography.com. April 2014 | Springfield Lifestyle 21

Real Wives

introducing

Shailey Murphy real wives of Springfield What’s on the floor of your

Best vacation ever?

car right now?

This was actually a work trip. We got to film in Cairo, Egypt, and it was a trip of a lifetime!

Receipts, Kleenexes (I’ve been sick) and bulldog hair.

Favorite date night restaurant? Favorite ‘pamper yourself’

Gilardi’s or Ocean Zen

or splurge item?

Having my house professionally cleaned.

Best thing about living in the Ozarks?

The people Guiltiest food pleasure?

The “Zia” at Bambinos.

What do your record on the DVR?

The Walking Dead Best movie you’ve seen in the past three months?

Favorite sports team?

Who/what lives in your house?

Prisoners

My husband, Jonathan, Mac (English bulldog) and Walter (French bulldog).

Kentucky Wildcats basketball (My husband is from KY)

How would your best friend describe you?

Unique or interesting fact about

Work outside the home? If so, where?

Funny, thoughtful, talks a little too much…

yourself or your college years?

My husband and I own a video production company, Harp Creative, LLC, so I end up getting to work all over the place!

Organization that gets most of your

I had my first date with my husband on my 19th birthday.

Native to Springfield or transplanted to the area?

I was born and raised right here in Springfield.

volunteer time

I volunteer as one of the nursery/kids coordinators at North Point Church - East Sunshine Campus so a lot of my time is spent there (especially on Sundays!).

Best entertaining advice?

Don’t save everything until the last minute, and it’s ok if everything isn’t perfect.

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Healthy Lifestyle

Your Sleep Schedule and Hormone Balance Is the rhythm of your life helping or hurting your health goals?

Article Jenna Damron

xercise and diet are often solely credited as the main vessels through which an individual reaches their goals in the gym. Of all clients we see on a daily basis, 99 percent have two basic goals: fat loss and muscle gain. While diet and exercise are largely important in obtaining these goals, there is one often-overlooked factor that may be hindering you from reaching your goals: sleep. Sleep is the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s natural reset button. It allows us to regroup, recharge and recover from the physical, social, and psychological pressure we put on it daily. Sleeping affects the levels of many different hormones that can affect weight loss or muscle gain. Leptin and ghrelin are two hormones that can have a huge impact on your weight loss. Leptin acts as a long-term regulator of the bodyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s energy supply. This hormone suppresses hunger, and therefore induces weight loss. Ghrelin is produced in the lining of the stomach and the pancreas and on the other hand is a very fast acting hormone that plays a role in hunger and meal initiation. Ghrelin levels are highest right before a meal, and lowest right after a meal. A reduced sleep duration does not allow the body to reset these hormones and

24 Springfield Lifestyle | April 2014

regulate them to normal, balanced levels, and therefore may lead to more ghrelin secretion, more eating and hunger, lower leptin levels and satiation, and therefore more weight gain. Another important hormone that is significantly affected by sleep is somatotropin, or human growth hormone. The importance of this hormone is dual-faceted. Growth hormone is produced and secreted by the pituitary gland. It is responsible for cell growth, reproduction and regeneration. During restful sleep, the pituitary gland secretes more somatotropin than it does during your wakeful hours. This means two things for your body. Adequate sleep and somatotropin levels help to repair muscles, which break down during exercise. This is important for those who want to gain muscle mass, but it is also important for those who want to lose weight. Muscle cells burns on average 5x more calories per hour than fat cells do. More muscle mass means more calories burned at rest, and a higher metabolism. Additionally, somatotropin directly affects your metabolism. A higher base metabolic rate

means that you burn off the calories you eat at a higher rate, which translates into easier weight loss. The last hormone that is affected by your sleep schedule is cortisol. Cortisol levels begin to rise approximately 2-3 hours after the onset of sleep, and continue to rise into early morning and early waking hours. Cortisol follows a wavelike pattern in conjunction with your sleep pattern. When your sleep cycle gets thrown off, your cortisol secretion cycle gets thrown off as well. For example, nighttime awakening is followed by a temporary inhibition in cortisol secretion. Cortisol is one of the many hormones that help to regulate the levels of glucose in the blood. It acts as the antagonist to insulin. Insulin stimulates muscle and fat tissue cells to absorb glucose out of the blood stream, while cortisol stimulates the body to conserve glucose in the bloodstream for potential use by vital organs like the brain and heart in stressful situations. Weight loss and gain is a very precarious balance between these two hormones. Prolonged levels of cortisol in the blood can lead to weight gain as unused glucose in the blood stream gets stored in fat cells. If the cortisol-insulin balance in your blood becomes irregular due to an irregular sleep cycle, it can make for a difficult time shedding fat and gaining muscle. In conclusion, there are many different factors that could be affecting your ability to reach your fitness goals. While exercise and diet are the main and obvious contributors, it is important to realize the whole picture. Taking good care of your body through diet, exercise, proper hydration, and a solid 8 hours of sleep per night is the best way to keep your body healthy and achieve your goals in the gym.

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Sold Properties

Recently SOLD Springfield Properties neighborhood

original list

sold $$

%sold/orig

dom* bdrms

full/half bath

floorplan

IronBridge

$995,000

100%

5/1

Ranch

Highland Springs

$849,500

100%

563

4/2

Story & Half

Pearson Pointe

$649,000

100%

3/1

Ranch

Emerald Pointe

$599,900

$570,000

95%

113

4/1

Ranch

Phelps Park Terrace

$565,000

100%

2/1

Ranch

Pebble Creek

$449,900

$437,500

97%

222

3/1

Ranch

Lexington Square

$425,000

100%

3/0

Ranch

Oak Knolls

$439,000

$425,000

97%

109

2/1

Story & Half

Rivercut

$395,000

$388,000

98%

3/0

Ranch

Bentwater

$364,900

$353,700

97%

4/1

Story & Half

Lexington Square

$359,000

$350,000

97%

178

2/1

Ranch

Fox Grape 7th

$340,000

$325,000

96%

3/1

Story & Half

River Road East

$339,900

$322,500

95%

104

3/1

Ranch

Oak Knolls South

$324,900

$310,000

95%

3/1

Two Story

Eastwood Hills

$289,000

100%

203

3/2

Two Story

Spring Creek 4th

$274,900

$279,900

102%

3/1

Ranch

The Lakes at Wild Horse 1

$284,900

$275,000

97%

2/0

Ranch

Sunset Ridge

$265,000

$260,500

98%

138

2/0

Ranch

Chimney Hills

$269,900

$260,000

96%

3/0

Story & Half

Preston Woods

$269,900

$259,500

96%

3/0

Multi-Level

Fox Grape

$285,000

$250,000

88%

171

2/1

Ranch

Information compiled from MLS of Springfield from dates of February 1 through February 28, 2014. Information deemed reliable but not guaranteed and not a complete list of all activity. *DOM=Days on Market

Lina Robertson Jones

linarobertson@remax.net www.ozarks-realestate.com Fax: 417.581.4439 Cell: 417.844.7265 Office: 417.581.7888 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Call me for a more comprehensive analysis of Your neighborhood.â&#x20AC;?

Lina Robert son Jones April 2014 | Springfield Lifestyle 27

Lifestyle Calendar

April APRIL 3 THE TASTE OF ADVENTURE REMINGTONS

The 5th Annual Taste of Adventure benefits Ronald McDonald House and Fellowship of Christian Athletes in Springfield and includes a full banquet dinner of a variety of unique cuisine. The evening will also feature silent and live auctions as well as an adventure expo featuring equipment and trips for a variety of outdoor excursions. Admission is $65. 6 to 9 p.m. For more information, call 417.875.3505.

APRIL 4 FIRST FRIDAY ART WALK DOWNTOWN

The first Friday of each month brings hundreds of people to historic downtown Springfield for First Friday Art Walk, a Springfield cultural happening. Art lovers “Walk the Walk” throughout the Downtown Arts District, enjoying original art, music, demonstrations and performances in 28 gallery venues. For more information, visit FFAW.org.

APRIL 4, 5, 6 SPRING AG & URBAN FEST OZARK EMPIRE FAIRGROUNDS

The Spring Ag & Urban Fest will celebrate the best of the outdoors as enthusiasts gather for the second annual event to shop products fit for urban and rural lifestyles. The expo will also feature a large livestock exhibit. Admission is free. The fairgrounds are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For more information, call 417.833.2660 or visit OzarkEmpireFair.com.

APRIL 5 NATIVE PLANT SALE AND SEMINAR SPRINGFIELD CONSERVATION NATURE CENTER

Using native plants can save time and money and can also help with wildlife conservation efforts. Learn more about beautiful native plants, their benefits, where to use them, and which ones are best for wildlife. The seminar will cover creating a backyard prairie garden, 28 Springfield Lifestyle | April 2014

successful native landscapes, and edible landscapes. There is no registration. For more information, call 417.888.4237.

APRIL 5 CHERRY BLOSSOM KITE FESTIVAL MEMORIAL PARK

Kite making and flying from the Botanical Center’s roof plaza and great lawn. Admission to the Mizumoto Japanese Stroll Garden is free that day. Various activities will celebrate Springfield’s Sister City, Isesaki, Japan. For more information, call 417.891.1515 or visit ParkBoard.org.

APRIL 5, 19 CONTRA DANCE DOLING PARK

Dances run from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. New dancers are asked to come at 7 p.m. for a brief “everything you need to know” lesson. Admission for adults is $6, students is $4. Everyone is welcome, as long as you enjoy music and are enthusiastic, you can be a contra dancer. For more information, call 417.862.8681 or visit SpingfieldContra.org.

APRIL 6 SPRINGFIELD URBAN-WARRIOR CHALLENGE SPRINGFIELD

The 12.4K race is the toughest, grittiest, most exhilarating race ever to occupy our city. The MSU Army ROTC thrusts you through urban Springfield with obstacles designed to challenge your endurance, speed, agility, and will to keep moving forward. Costs range from $75 to $105 for individual registration; $275-$350 for teams. For more information and registration, visit EmbraceTheSuc.com.

APRIL 10, 17, 19, 26 LITTLE ACORNS SPRINGFIELD

Springfield Conservation Nature Center offers the opportunities for little acorns to learn about our interesting animals and their habitats in the Springfield area. From worms to hummingbirds to turtles the Nature Center will be sure to provide some fun for you and your little ones. Ages 3-6. For more information and to register, call 417.888.4237.

APRIL 12 COLOR ME RAD 5K FOR OPT KIDS SPRINGFIELD

Come race to help promote educational broadcast programs like

Sesame Street, Curious George and Super Why! The OPT Kids Initiative helps make it possible for more than 50,000 children to watch these educational programs each week. To register, use promo code ELMO for 20% off your registration. Or volunteer and join the Color Bomb Squad. Shifts are available Thursday, Friday and Saturday of race week. ColorMeRad.com

APRIL 12 EASTER AT THE FARM RUTLEDGE-WILSON FARM PARK

Enjoy Easter on the Farm. Children ages 3-9 are invited to participate in controlled Easter Egg hunts that will take place throughout the day. Admission is free. The farm is open for egg hunts from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 417.837.5949 or visit ParkBoard.org.

APRIL 12 RUSSIAN FIREWORKS SPRINGFIELD

Juanita K. Hammons Hall is pleased to present the Glinkas Russlan and Ludmilla Overture as the opener for the evening, followed by the 2013 Hellam Competition Winner Matthew Allen on the Dvorak Cello Concerto. Also Shostakovichâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s humorous and surprising First Symphony. For more information, call 417.864.6683 or visit SpingfieldMoSymphony.org.

Sip The fineST margariTa Experience the modern side of Mexican cuisine Taste guacamole made fresh at your table Savor fresh seafood and steaks with authentic sauces

APRIL 12, 13 REPTICON, REPTILE & EXOTIC ANIMAL SHOW OZARK EMPIRE FAIRGROUNDS

Repticon Springfield is a reptile event featuring vendors offering reptile pets, supplies, feeders, cages and merchandise. Participate in free raffles, animal seminars and kidâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s activities. Admission is $10 for adults, Children 5-12 is $10, 4 & under are free. 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information, call 863.268.4273 or visit Repticon.com/Springfield.

Springfield

4109 S. national ave. at James river freeway 417.881.7200 cantinalaredo.com

CelebraTe CinCo de mayo! April 2014 | Springfield Lifestyle 29

Lifestyle Calendar

APRIL 13

April 19

HIGH HOPES BLUEGRASS

Go Girl Run 2014

LIBRARY CENTER AUDITORIUM

Springfield

High Hopes Bluegrass is back with its old time bluegrass and Gospel mix. Show starts at 2 p.m. For more information, call 417.882.0714.

Come run in this road race with other women in the Go Girl Run 5k or half-marathon. Participants will need to pick up their bib, chip, and t-shirt at the Springfield Expo Center on April 18. Registration forms are available online or at Ultramax Sports located at 1254 E. Republic Rd., Springfield. For more information and registration, visit UltraMaxSports.com/GoGirlRun.

April 13 Camp Barnabas Half-Marathon Mercy Hospital

Big Party Half-Marathon is the signature fundraising event dedicated to raising funds for Camp Barnabas to provide life-changing experiences for people with special needs and chronic illnesses. Check-in for the half-marathon will start at 6 a.m. at Mercy Hospital and the race begins at 8 a.m. For more information and registration, email Jason Brawner at Jason@campbarnabas.org.

APRIL 14-MAY 24 THE END CAME IN SPRING OZARK

Stained Glass Theatre presents The End Came in Spring, a play about Scott, who has just returned from two years overseas, his father who would like him to take over the family business, and his brother who is pushing to get him into a serious relationship. Watch Scott’s journey to discovering himself and God’s will for his life. 417.581.9192 or visit SGTheatre.com.

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APRIL 22 HIKE FOR HOMESCHOOLERS SPRINGFIELD CONSERVATION NATURE CENTER

Join us for a naturalist-guided hike and learn about the plants and animals that live at the nature center. Feel free to bring journals, cameras, and binoculars. 1 to 3 p.m. Ages 5 and up are welcome. For more information call 417.888.4237.