West Chester & Liberty December 2015

West Chester & Liberty DECEMBER 2015

WestChesterandLibertyLifestyle.com

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Happy Holidays

FROM SIMPLE TO SPARKLE SWEET ROLLS AND SAVORY SOUP HOLIDAY HEALING AT CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL

Lifestyle Letter

The Heart of the Holiday.

DECEMBER 2015

D

ecember has arrived! You may read those words with excitement as you look forward to holiday traditions, spending time with family and hopefully taking a few days off from work. Or you might read those words with dread, as you worry and stress over the myriad of tasks that still need to be accomplished before the holidays arrive.

No matter which camp you fall into, this issue of West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle has something for you. We’ve reached out to area experts to get their tips on holiday decorating and entertaining, alongside some beautiful photos to serve as inspiration.

We have a review of one of the “hot” tech items this year and a behind-the-scenes look at a Christmas tree farm. If the stress of the holidays is still too overwhelming, our article on destination holidays might inspire you to escape to a relaxing vacation destination this December.

publisher

Michelle Moody | Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com editor

Tera Michelson | Tera.Michelson@LifestylePubs.com contributing writers

Tom W. Brewer, PJ Martin, Tom May, Mark Moody contributing photographers

Gild Collective, Maslov Photography, Jannae Turley

CORPORATE TEAM CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER

| Steven Schowengerdt

CHIEF SALES OFFICER

| Matthew Perry

CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER

Of course, the holidays are about much more than having a perfectly decorated home and which presents to buy. At the heart of it all, Christmas provides us with a chance to express our gratitude for the blessings we have been given and inspires us to share our time and love with others. The story on Children’s Hospital Medical Center reminds us there are ways we can help bring a smile to the face of someone who might not be feeling very joyful this holiday.

This December, even if your tree is crooked and your soufflé goes up in flames, I hope your holidays are a time to come together or reconnect with loved ones, or to reach out to someone in need.

DIRECTOR OF MARKETING ART DIRECTOR EDITORIAL DIRECTOR AD COORDINATORS

| DeLand Shore | Brad Broockerd

| Sara Minor | Nicole Sylvester

| Cyndi Harrington, Chelsi Hornbaker

COPY EDITOR

| Kendra Mathewson

APPLICATION ARCHITECT WEB DEVELOPER

| Michael O’Connell | Hanna Park

Happy Holidays!

Michelle Moody, Publisher Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com

Michelle Moody, Publisher Michelle.Moody@LifestylePubs.com

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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

P.O. Box 12608 Overland Park, KS 66282-3214 Proverbs 3:5-6 West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle™ is published monthly by Lifestyle Publications LLC. It is distributed via the US Postal Service to some of West Chester and Liberty’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 West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle™ is gathered from sources considered to be reliable, but the accuracy of all information cannot be guaranteed.

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December 2015

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14 Holiday Healing at Cincinnati Children’s

Hospital Medical Center

Departments 8

Good Times

10

Around Town

12

Tech Today

14

Giving Back

26

What’s Cooking?

30

Locally Owned

32

Lifestyle Calendar

34

Parting Thoughts

Join the Child Life team in making the holidays merry and bright.

18 Go Rustic, or Go Glam

Deck your halls with tips from home decorating pros.

22 Press Pause on the Holiday Hype

Pack your bags for a holiday destination vacation.

24 Sweet & Savory

The Jaded Fork bakes up some tasty treats and helpful holiday hints.

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December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

7

Good Times

Celebrity Waiters Serve Community

Reach Out Lakota's celebrity waiters served up a spectacular evening of good eats and generosity, raising funds to assist Lakota School District families in need. The 4th annual event was held at West Chester's Savannah Center in October. Celebrity waiters included news anchors, former professional athletes and local government leaders. PHOTOGRAPHY JILLIAN KELLEY

Now offering

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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

$20 discount on each additional group class yo Mention this ad and we’ll waive the $30 administration fee when you register! (offer cannot be combined with other offers)

Halloween Extravaganza

There were no tricks, just treats at the 7th annual Halloween Extravaganza at West Chester Family Dentistry. Highlights included games, door prizes, free food and drinks, a chili cook-off contest, a costume contest, goodie bags, a fire safe house and even a chance to pet a real alligator.

December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

9

Around Town WELLING & CO. JEWELERS ON THE MOVE

CinéBistro side, catering to the 21 and up crowd with cocktails, wine

For 95 years, Welling & Co. Jewelers has been one of the most trusted

service and fine dining. The in-theater dining does not disappoint;

names in West Chester for jewelry and gifts for all occasions. On Novem-

don’t fill up on popcorn if you want to have room for tasty treats from

ber 24, they closed the doors on their VOA Plaza location and will soon

Cobbster’s Kitchen & Bar or turn things up a notch and order from

relocate and reopen in a stunning new spot in Olde West Chester. The

the CinéBistro menu. CineBistro.com

new location boasts a beautiful, modern-feeling display and provides the perfect backdrop to showcase an extensive collection of fashion and fine jewelry. See the sparkle with your own eyes at their fabulous new location at 8992 Cincinnati Dayton Road. WellingsJewelers.com

CIRCLE SINGERS TO PERFORM BENEFIT CONCERT DECEMBER 19 Get in the holiday spirit with a choral concert by The Circle Singers, a 50-year-old volunteer chorus un-

AERIAL SILKS CLASS UNFURLS AT WEST CHESTER ACADEMY

der the direction of Bill Osborne. The Holiday Benefit Concert is scheduled for

West Chester Academy is adding a

December 19 at 6:30 p.m. at Sorrento’s

new course to its lineup: Aerial Silks.

Restaurant, 8794 Reading Road. The

Aerial Silks is acrobatics performed

night’s program includes traditional hol-

while suspended from two thick strips

iday favorites like “Silver Bells” and “Si-

of silk fabric. Performers use the fab-

lent Night.” Proceeds support the choir

ric to wrap, hang, fall, swing and spiral

into 2016. First known as the General

into and out of various artful positions.

Electric Glee Club, The Circle Singers is

Combining the fun and excitement of

a non-profit group that performs primar-

the circus with the artistry and grace

ily at senior and retirement institutions,

of dance, it’s a great way for dancers

but also at civic, corporate and social

and gymnasts to cross condition and

events. Love to sing? The mixed-voice

build flexibility, strength and balance.

adult choir welcomes new members.

West Chester Academy is the first to

Cinci-CircleSingers.org

offer Aerial Silks in the area. Classes begin in January for students ages 5-18; registration is now open.

513.829.2345 WestChesterAcademy.com

PANCAKE BREAKFAST WITH SANTA CLAUS IN LIBERTY TOWNSHIP DECEMBER 5

GET CENTERED AT LIBERTY CENTER WITH FREE YOGA SESSIONS During this busy holiday season, take a break with yoga to nurture

“Ho, ho, ho!” echoes across Liberty Township as Santa arrives

your mind, body and spirit. As a part

to town in an antique fire pumper for an all-you-can-eat pancake

of Liberty Center’s Wellness Series,

breakfast. Scheduled for December 5, from 8:30 a.m.-10:30 a.m.,

GraceTree Yoga and Growth Studio

the Liberty Township Trustees and Community Volunteers host

will lead sessions Mondays at 6:45

the family-friendly morning. Eat breakfast, make a holiday craft

p.m., Tuesdays at 9:45 a.m., and Sat-

and get pictures with Santa (bring your own camera). Proceeds

urdays at 8:30 a.m. Participants with

from the event go to support Cincinnati Children’s Hospital

all levels of experience are welcome

Medical Center and future Liberty Township community events

to bring a mat and join in to refresh,

for families. The event will be held at Liberty Heights Church,

renew and find peace in the present

7904 Princeton Road. Tickets are $10 for adults and $5 for chil-

moment. Classes meet at Unity Chap-

dren. 513.759.7500 Liberty-Township.com

el by Tri-Health, Liberty Center. See the online calendar for a full schedule.

UPSCALE COBB LUXURY 15 & CINÉBISTRO THEATRES NOW OPEN Cobb opened the curtains on its brand new theater on November

Liberty-Center.com/Events

“UN-CHRISTMAS” SERVICES AVAILABLE

5, bringing a posh movie-going experience to Liberty Center patrons.

Inside this issue of West Chester & Liberty Lifestyle, we have

All 15 auditoriums are furnished with comfy leather, reclining seats

fabulous tips to make your house holiday-ready. But what hap-

that are reserved in advance to remove the rush from your night

pens after the holidays are over and it’s time to take down all

out. The theater offers two distinct areas for entertainment: the lux-

the decorations? Best Friend Errand Service comes to the res-

ury side, featuring the latest advances in movie technology, and the

cue to clean up and put away holiday decorations with their

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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

new “Un-Christmas” service. A personal assistant and concierge

pairs of shoes. About half of the shoes went to countries in need:

business, Best Friend Errand Service can also assist year-round:

Tanzania, Kenya, Honduras, the Philippines, Haiti, and Moldova. Even

take on your to-do list, wrap gifts, host parties and aid during

South Carolina received some shoes as a part of the flood relief ef-

medical recovery. Give the gift of time this holiday with help from

forts there. The other 2,600 pairs of shoes stayed in the neighborhood

your new Best Friend. BestFriendErrand.com

and are being distributed by Reach Out Lakota to help support local families in need. For the past two years, Ferguson has made it his

WEST CHESTER FARMER’S MARKET MOVES TO WINTER SCHEDULE

personal mission to send shoes where they are needed. Join him in his goal of “changing lives one sole at a time.” TheShoeProject.org

Cold weather won’t slow down the West Chester Farmer’s Market this month. The Market moves inside to its winter site, Muhlhauser Barn, located at 8558 Beckett Road. The Market meets December 5 and 19 from 2 p.m. - 4 p.m. with continued sales of local products. The Farmer’s Market returns to its outdoor site on the Square in April.

WestChesterOhioFarmersMarket.org

THE SHOE PROJECT DONATES 5,200 PAIRS OF SHOES Congratulations to Lakota East sophomore John Ferguson, who led Lakota Schools in a fall shoe drive. In just two weeks, they collected 5,200

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December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

11

Tech Today

Meet Alexa HOT TECH GIFT TALKS BACK

ARTICLE MARK MOODY | PHOTOGRAPHY AMAZON.COM

M

eet the newest member of our family, Alexa. She’s not a baby, nor a pet. Alexa is our Amazon Echo, a cloud-based, voice-activated, Bluetooth speaker. She is definitely the only one in the family that answers my every beck and call.

Amazon Echo became available to the public only this past summer, but when it was first released in limited quantities over a year ago, our family was given the option to welcome Alexa into our household.

Here are my thoughts, as an experienced Echo user, on the top five functions of the Amazon Echo.

ALEXA PLAYS MUSIC

This is the number one thing for which our family uses the Echo. It serves as a quality Bluetooth speaker that plays your online music collection. Additionally, Alexa will stream almost any radio station live— don’t get too excited sports fans, live sports will not stream. You can adjust the volume or genres with a simple voice command, which Alexa can “hear” from at least 20 feet away, a feature that comes in handy when you’re a room away and have your hands full.

ALEXA ANSWERS QUESTIONS

Alexa relays a ton of useful information, including facts about people and places. She also responds to movie quotes and tells jokes.

This is our kids’ favorite feature; they love to ask Alexa questions about Star Wars. Alexa’s depth of knowledge doesn’t compare to Siri, because she will not answer the variety of questions that a dedicated information engine does. That said, Alexa is fun and funny.

ALEXA ANNOUNCES NEWS AND WEATHER UPDATES

Another popular use of Alexa in our household is to get news and weather up-

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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

dates. She will report the weather conditions of any location worldwide up to 10 days in advance. She also gives tailored traffic and news reports on command. Alexa’s “hearing” is so good that we can stand at the top of our stairs to get the weather report before we get dressed each morning. With Alexa’s help, we know if it’s t-shirt or sweater weather before we even come downstairs.

ALEXA CREATES LISTS

Alexa has the capability to create lists, such as to-do and shopping lists, that can be accessed by the user online or on a mobile device. Anyone in the family can add something to the shopping list, and then it can be viewed on a phone at the grocery store. This feature is both a pro and a con, as I recently noticed that my wife asked Alexa to add “clean the garage” to my to-do list.

ALEXA DOES SO MUCH MORE

Some of the more powerful applications of the Amazon Echo lie in its capability to interface with other devices and computer programs. With additional purchases and set-up, you can use Alexa to dim your lights, turn down the heat or send emails. Since its inception, Amazon has continued to add more functionality to the Echo and its capabilities will continue to grow.

Our Amazon Echo sits in a discreet and convenient location near the kitchen table. She has become like another member of our family. The Amazon Echo is a hot gift item this year, sweettalking its way to the top of Holiday Wish Lists. If you are looking for a fun, practical and useful gift this holiday season, consider the gift of Alexa.

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December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

13

Giving Back

Holidays IN THE HOSPITAL

MEET THE CHILD LIFE ELVES OF CINCINNATI CHILDREN'S HOSPITAL MEDICAL CENTER

ARTICLE TOM MAY PHOTOGRAPHY MASLOV PHOTOGRAPHY

T

here’s no good time for a child to be sick, but during the holidays is an especially bad time. It’s a good thing that nearly every day can feel like a holiday when surrounded by the cheerful elves of the Division of Child Life at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital Medical Center (CCHMC).

There is nothing like the glee in a child’s eyes as they open presents. The Child Life team unwraps gifts of love for child patients of all ages during the holidays and year-round. Child Life is composed of certified specialists and assistants who offer social and emotional support for children and their families during a hospital stay. The goal of the program is to help families understand and cope with their children’s reactions to the uncertainties of health care.

Their programs are enhanced by gifts and donations from the community.

Kelly Range, a Certified Child Life Specialist, stresses that most of the children and families are scared about their stay in the hospital. The Child Life team partners with families to provide services that respond to their individual needs.

They listen to concerns, gently and honestly explain the procedures and diagnoses and encourage families with support. They make play opportunities available to help provide relief and a diversion from the stresses of the hospital stay.

Patients’ families are looking for answers and the Child Life staff helps by providing something they need the most–gifts of love. What kind of gifts will be unwrapped at Cincinnati Children’s Hospital this holiday season?

THE GIFT OF FAMILIARITY

“It isn’t ever normal to be in the hospital—and it can be devastating at the holidays," says Range.

"We try to work together to help things become 14

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

The Child Life Team, under a ceiling of stars: Intern Kahli Rhodes, Jane Livingston, Kelly Range and Lisa Hall.

more normal for the child and their family.” The Child Life team coordinates with parents to mimic as many of the family’s holiday traditions as possible. They decorate the hospital rooms with colorful streamers and cutouts, play favorite videos and music and transform hospital rooms into a comfortable setting of cheerfulness.

THOUGHTFUL GIFTS

says Hall. "We help them put together sibling books to share their experiences with their brothers and sisters. We try to plan events in which the entire family can participate.”

The hospital has facilities to bring immediate families together. Ryan Seacrest, a celebrity from American Idol, donated money for an on-site studio where local or touring entertainers can offer special performances for children. Other events include parties and activities featuring athletes from local colleges and even from the Reds and Bengals teams.

Gifts of hope are not just for the patients. Taking part in such an important, giving profession touches the lives of the staff as well. Range says working with hospitalized children has made her always grateful for the opportunity to celebrate the holidays with her own family. “The children make me appreciative of the magic and wonder that is the season,” she says.

Hall beams as she reflects on the diverse population that the hospital touches. “We have children here literally from all over the world. It makes me aware of how similar we are and how we all share the same kind of struggles.”

“I realize almost daily how lucky we are to live in the Cincinnati area." says Livingston. "People are willing to give so generously to touch the lives of these children. Working here has made me a more thankful person.”

Want to give a thoughtful gift to allow a child and his or her family the chance to have a joyful holiday this year? For more information about how you can help, contact Child Life of CCHMC at 513.636.8855 or visit the website at CincinnatiChildrens.org/ChildLife.

Jane Livingston, Coordinator for Donor Relations and Stewardship, helps make sure there are plenty of appropriate holiday gifts for every hospitalized child. The hospital has needs for gifts for patients of all ages, but especially teenaged boys.

“We can always use advanced craft kits–like model cars and planes–along with sports memorabilia from local college and professional sports teams,” says Livingston. Gift cards from local restaurants and stores or the hospital gift shop are especially helpful because they are useful for all ages. The simple gifts are those that often mean the most; baby rattles, teething toys, clothing, batteries and wrapping paper are always in demand at CCHMC. HOPEFUL GIFTS

The gifts and services provided by CCHMC and its supporters bring hope to the children and their families. Lisa Hall, Operations Coordinator for Child Life, gets to see many of the gifts that make the patients smile with hope.

“We try to make the children feel connected with their families even when they are away from home," December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

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mihomes.com • 513.400.4748

Deck the Halls Decorating Trends for a Dashing Holiday ARTICLE TOM W. BREWER PHOTOGRAPHY MASLOV PHOTOGRAPHY AND PROVIDED

Photo by Maslov Photography

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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

M

other Nature has never needed decorating help. She colors her grounds with leaves of orange and brown before the rest of us break out our scarves. She paints her sky a deeper shade of gray before we can put away our autumn centerpieces.

She has never bothered to watch HGTV and has no need for a Pinterest board. Mother Nature is always one season ahead. The rest of us, though—not so much.

We’ve enlisted some of the area’s top decorating experts to help you change your home from pumpkin spice to peppermint mocha. They’ve got all the insight about how to make your home look gorgeous and on-trend, inside and out.

INTERIOR DECORATING TRENDS

Helen Wright is meeting many customers looking for one of two distinct styles.

“People are going for a natural look,” she says. “Woodsy, outdoor, rustic decorations are popular because they go well with reclaimed wooden furniture.” Wright recommends turning your living room into a cozy Christmas cabin with decorations made of burlap or birch bark, and enhancing your natural theme with a series of ornaments and trinkets that look like woodland animals. Not so fast, Rudolph—owls and squirrels are all the rage.

Rachel Bauer McCreary agrees that woodsy decor is in, but that doesn’t mean you have to start from scratch.

“So much Christmas decor is almost stuck in its ways, but you can definitely make small, meaningful tweaks to keep it on trend,” she says. “For instance, traditional holiday wreaths are pine, not grapevine, but we knew that our customers wanted something on-trend to display with pride on their doors. The grapevine achieves the CONTINUED > rustic look.”

Photo by Maslov Photography

Photo by Maslov Photography

December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

19

DECK THE HALLS

(CON TI N U ED)

Some customers, Wright says, are looking for a flashier holiday.

“We sell a lot of rhinestone reindeer,” she says. You can glam up your Christmas with glittery whites and silvers that will pop on your mantel, dining room table and Christmas tree. Bauer McCreary says gold is the go-to color for statement pieces and accents.

“Warm gold hues, rose gold, bronze, and copper are staying strong in home decor and will continue to do so into next year. Mixing metallic tones with organic textures is a great way to keep your home from feeling too hard,” she says.

EXTERIOR DECORATING TRENDS

As far as the outside of your home is concerned, Wright says the traditional green Christmas wreath isn’t going anywhere. According to the National Christmas Tree Association, Fraser and balsam firs are famous for needle-retention, making them prime choices when choosing a festive wreath.

There’s bad news for the Clark Griswold in all of us: loud, colorful Christmas lights are out. Pete Wilson anticipates that homeowners will turn to modern technology to return to simplicity.

“White LED lighting is clean and crisp, and really adds elegance to outdoor decorations,” Wilson says. Classic white Christmas lights will make your home look gorgeous, and your neighbors are sure to prefer a simple display to a blinding one.

Bauer McCreary supports Wilson’s observation that simplicity reigns supreme this holiday season.

“The key in outdoor decor right now is to keep it simple, with some pieces that really pop. I love the idea of vintage marquee lights in front windows that spell out the messages of the season, such as JOY or LOVE.” The experts have weighed in and it sounds like extremes are in fashion this season. Go simple and rustic or glitter and glam, but go all the way this holiday season to turn your home into a festive, winter wonderland.

Photo by Maslov Photography 20

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

Photo by Maslov Photography

Meet the Experts Helen Wright is an interior designer and the owner of Interiors Plus, a 5,000 square foot home décor emporium in Mason. Interiors Plus offers furniture, rugs, art and fabric fit for any time of year. You can check out the holiday décor collection and peruse Wright's portfolio, both in the showroom and online. InteriorsPlusMasonOhio.com Pete Wilson is owner of Window Genie of West Chester. In May of 2015, Window Genie added custom holiday light services to its repertoire. Window Genie's installers don’t just put up the lights and wish you a merry Christmas; they’ll maintain and store your lights, as well. WestChester.WindowGenie.com Rachel Bauer McCreary is the Chief Creative Officer at Gild Collective, an area startup that helps its customers throw craft parties. Crafters choose from a wide range of projects, including holiday crafts. Gild Collective offers “Artisan Series,” available exclusively in Greater Cincinnati, where crafts are led by local artists. GildCollective.com December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

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Holiday Destination Vacation Press Pause on the Holiday Hype

ARTICLE TERA MICHELSON | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

W

hile Christmas carols claim it is “the most wonderful time of the year,” for some, the holidays can feel like the most draining time of the year. There never seem to be enough hours in each day. Calendars fill up with too many concerts, parties and stressful family and work gatherings. December is the perfect time to pack your bags and get away from it all on a holiday destination vacation.

According to David Yockey, an Independent Travel Consultant affiliated with Provident Travel, vacations during the month of December are often motivated by sunshine. Yockey says it takes too long to get to the Caribbean, so the most popular warm weather destinations are in Mexico: Cancun and the Mayan Riviera.

“In only 2 1/2 hours of travel, you can count on Mexico to be a warm getaway,” he says. There are two charter companies that have weekly departures from Cincinnati that head for these popular, exotic locales, which is beneficial to travelers.

“When you can get a direct flight to your destination, it cuts down on travel time," says Yockey. "Less travel time means more vacation time. Another thing people do during the winter are cruises,” he says. “Cruises are always popular at this time of year.”

In December 2013, Kathryn Gruver wasn’t craving warm weather, but she did long for some girl time. As an engineer surrounded by male coworkers, a wife and mother of two teenaged boys, Kathryn lives in a man’s world.

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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

“I wanted to go on a girl trip for my 40th birthday, but I didn’t do it. On my 41st birthday, I complained about it to my husband. He said, ‘Why don’t you go now?’” They made an agreement that if she could find just one other woman to go with her, she should go. The next time she was at church, she leaned into the pew in front of her to greet a friend. Spontaneously, she asked her, “Hey, do you want to go on a cruise?” Without even a moment of hesitation, her friend replied with a resounding, “Yes!” “I couldn’t believe it!” Gruver says. “The first person I asked, my very first try, and I got a yes!” It was meant to be. Gruver's birthday dream was being realized. The timing was perfect for a holiday break for her friends. When word got around, the trip quickly grew from two to a party of six.

That December, in 2013, the church friends took a three-day cruise with Royal Caribbean International that left from Miami, Florida for the Bahamas. For those three days, the crew of six from Cincinnati shopped for holiday gifts, toured Nassau on Segways and enjoyed a relaxing day on a private island.

“It was really nice to get away at Christmastime. It forced me to take a break from all of the holiday stuff. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas is the best time to cruise,” says Gruver. “It’s the cheapest time to cruise.” It was a win for the December birthday girl who got both birthday and holiday celebrations on her floating party.

“The ship is decorated for the holidays: menorahs for Hanukkah, snowmen, garland, Christmas trees. I didn’t see Santa, but I wouldn’t be surprised if he showed up in the kids’ area of the ship," she says.

Kelly Buchheit followed the 2013 cruise on Facebook from home, living vicariously through pictures during an Ohio snowstorm. This time, she is going along.

“I want to take a breath--just a pause--before the holidays,” she says with a deep sigh.

It was hard for Buchheit to allow herself that pause, until she realized that none of the other busy, working women appeared to have time for it either. She decided to just do it.

“As women I think we always put ourselves last. I am looking forward to having fun and connecting with this great group of women,” she says. “I have never been on a trip like this. I am equal parts excited and curious about how the group will meld together. I’ve had to do zero planning--Kathryn organized it all via Facebook--which makes it even better at this time of year.”

Gruver embraces her new holiday-birthday tradition.

“I plan on a birthday cruise from now until forever!” she says. The cruise crew departs for the second annual getaway in mid-December.

No matter what motivates you to make your escape, December destinations await you. Whether it’s warm weather or deepening a warm friendship, time away from the pressure of the holidays can soothe your soul.

Tiaras for everyone on December 2013 cruise. Gruver is second from left.

December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

23

& Sweet

Savory Culinary Creations With The Jaded Fork

ARTICLE PJ MARTIN | PHOTOGRAPHY JANNAE TURLEY

L

indsey Cook and Annie Esposito are more than the chefs for The Jaded Fork. They are also the business managers, promoters and visionaries for the business.

Owning their own catering company means they have to wear more hats than just the tall, white chef ’s hats— Cook and Esposito get to wear all of the hats—and that’s the way they like it.

“It’s common for people in our industry to reach a point where you just get a little jaded working for other people," says Cook. "Annie came up with the name. It’s time to turn the jadedness into something positive!” If you’ve eaten any of their fare, you’ll agree that something positive is definitely spinning out of The Jaded Fork.

Well known in the area for their bakery and savory delights, the pair has swept the local West Chester Farmers Market off its feet. At the market, they are known for their gourmet and old world bakery items. Esposito focuses more on the dessert and bakery side of the business, while Cook prefers the savory.

“Because I don’t like to measure stuff,” Cook confesses with a smirk.

“That’s the difference between those that want to be precise in their measurements and those that are more…free spirited,” laughs Esposito.

In addition to their stand at the Market, they are also known for their topnotch catering, as well as for private cooking classes, kitchen organizing help and party and holiday planning.

HOLIDAY TIPS FROM THE JADED FORK

L in ds ey

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24

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An

nie

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o s it

o of

The Jade d F ork .

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

The women of The Jaded Fork know their way around a busy, holiday kitchen. They can easily feed a small dinner party or a large group gathering.

What’s on the holiday menu this season?

“Soup!” they say, in unison.

“It’s a proven fact that warmth is comforting and it calms people down," says Cook. “Soup is warm and filling and you can serve it at the beginning of the meal.

Keep it warm for later in a crock pot.”

“It is also especially good if you want to get away with a really small turkey. Serve people something filling to begin with,” says Esposito.

up

Holiday entertaining in The Jaded Fork’s style doesn’t have to be expensive or hard. Cook suggests saving peels from an orange, lime or lemon, and placing them in pretty vases with water to serve double duty. Not only is it attractive, she says, but it also gives a natural aroma that is appetizing and cleansing.

When it comes to decorating, many of us are guilty of using too many aromatic air fresheners and candles. The Jaded Fork gurus suggest banishing them from the dining area.

“Scented candles are really bad around where you are going to eat your food,” says Cook.

“If you have this really strong smell in your nose, it’s going to effect the way you are going to taste your food,” says Esposito. “It’s like if you put a banana in your lunch box, everything’s going to taste like banana.”

Presentation is key at the holidays, and Esposito makes it sound simple.

“Use risers if you are leaning towards a family or buffet style,” she suggests. “Take something like a cake pan or soup pot, flip it upside-down and throw a tablecloth on top of it, and then put your platter on it. Add another platter in front of it. This produces levels of interest.”

“It’s called table-scaping," says Cook. "And Annie’s a pro at it.”

Cook and Esposito love to help plan the perfect party.

However, they suggest that sometimes you just need to call on a caterer.

“It depends on the number of people you’re serving and how elaborate it needs to be and your confidence level,” says Cook.

“There are events that are so high stress that you should not be doing it all yourself. Especially if you have guests from out of town and there are a hundred other things you are doing,” Esposito says.

A “No one is capable of doing it all," says po p Cook. "We like to take the edge off the host. Just call us, and we’ll do it for you!” A holiday served up by The Jaded Fork duo may be the holiday tip to top them all. di

nn

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d The Jade F ork .

Find The Jaded Fork on Facebook or email at thejadedfork@gmail.com.

December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

25

What’s Cooking?

P

ecan Sticky Buns is one of our favorite go-to recipes for feeding a crowd an impressive breakfast. A single batch can make more

than a dozen and you don’t need any special equipment you don’t al-

ready own. Skip the donuts and pancakes; your guests will talk about this ooey-gooey breakfast for years to come.

PECAN STICKY BUNS

Yield: 12-15 buns INGREDIENTS:

TOPPING:

1 ounce active dry yeast

3 fluid ounces honey

2 ounces granulated sugar

3 ounces raw sugar

0.5 fluid ounces milk

2 ounces pecans (chopped)

5.5 fluid ounces buttermilk

FILLING:

1 teaspoon vanilla extract

1 teaspoon cinnamon

2 egg yolks

4 ounces brown sugar

2 teaspoons salt

3 ounces unsalted butter (melted)

1 pound all-purpose flour 8 ounces unsalted butter (very soft)

An

nie

E sp

o s i to &

L indsey C o

Th ok o f

eJ

ad

F ed

or

k.

Go-To Breakfast Buns From the Kitchen of The Jaded Fork

• To make the dough: stir the yeast, sugar and milk together in a small bowl.

Set aside.

• Stir the buttermilk, vanilla and egg yolks together and add to the yeast mixture.

• In the bowl of a mixer fitted with a dough hook, dump the yeast mixture. On top of the wet ingredients, add the salt, all-purpose flour and soft butter.

• Turn on the mixer (do not go above the second speed when making bread) and allow the dough to form. Knead the dough in the mixer until smooth, approximately 6 minutes.

• Cover the dough with plastic wrap and allow it to ferment until doubled in size.

• Prepare the topping by mixing the honey and raw sugar together in a bowl.

Add the pecans and stir.

• Prepare the pans by spraying the wells of the muffin pan heavily with pan spray (no muffin liners). Scoop a tablespoon of the topping into the bottom of each well.

• Prepare the filling by mixing the cinnamon and brown sugar together in a small bowl.

• Once the dough has doubled, roll it into a large rectangle (about ¼ inch thick).

• Brush the dough with 3 ounces of melted butter. Then sprinkle the filling mixture. Now evenly distribute the chopped pecans.

• Roll the dough up tightly into a snake like you would when making cinnamon rolls.

• Use a large serrated knife to gently cut ¾ inch slices. Place one in each well

A BUN IN THE OVEN

The Jaded Fork business isn’t the only new development in

over the topping.

Esposito’s life; her second son was born just two months ago.

• Proof the buns until doubled, approximately 20 minutes.

“Annie came back to work three days after he was born,”

• Bake at 325 degrees Fahrenheit until very brown, about 25 minutes.

• Immediately invert the pans onto foil and allow to cool.

Cook shares. “She had her baby strapped to her chest, rolling bread. I told her, ‘You’re getting dough on your child’s head!’ Annie just said, ‘He’s fine!’

He’s going to be a baker,” predicts Cook.

“He sleeps to the sound of a mixer," says Esposito.

26

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

T

his savory soup is great for holiday entertaining! The ingredients are all fall friendly, hearty and warming. Garnishing the soup can be fun and fancy;

use toasted squash seeds, an herb-infused oil, sour cream or croutons for textural variations and pops of color.

This soup can be kept warm in a crockpot if your menu calls for many pots to be on your stove at the time of your meal service. For easy serving, transfer the soup into a pitcher with a pour spout; it makes for an easy and clean pour into your soup bowls.

ROASTED ACORN SQUASH AND SWEET POTATO SOUP

6-8 servings 2 acorn squash 1 onion, yellow 2 sweet potatoes, peeled

Soup for the Season

FROM THE KITCHEN OF THE JADED FORK

4 garlic cloves, peeled 2 carrots, peeled 2 celery stalks 2 to 4 tablespoons olive oil 2 teaspoons cumin, ground 1 teaspoon onion powder 1 teaspoon garlic powder 1 tablespoon oregano, thyme or Italian seasoning, dried 6 cups chicken or vegetable stock • Preheat oven to 375 degrees Fahrenheit.

• Cut squash in half and scrape seeds out (save seeds for garnish, see steps below).

• Place squash halves cut-side down onto the pan.

• Cut peeled onion into quarters, place on pan.

• Cut sweet potatoes into 1” pieces and place on pan.

• Place garlic clove in a small square of foil, drizzle with a teaspoon of olive oil and fold foil over cloves to create a sealed envelope and place on sheet pan.

• Cut carrots and celery into 1" pieces and put on pan.

• Drizzle vegetables with olive oil, season with cumin, onion and garlic powder, dried herbs and a hefty pinch of kosher or sea salt and fresh cracked pepper.

• Place pan in preheated oven.

• Roast vegetables for 15 to 25 minutes until lightly browned.

• While vegetables are roasting, place stock in soup pot, and bring it to a gentle simmer.

• Add the vegetables to the simmering stock. Using a towel, pick up the cooked squash and scrape the softened insides (not the peel) into the soup pot.

• Let vegetables cook until they are completely tender (You’ll know they are done when a knife can easily pierce the veggies).

• Once tender, remove veggies from heat and ladle most of the vegetables into a blender (only fill halfway). Add a ladle-full of liquid. Place the lid on and cover with a towel. Blend on the lowest setting until smooth (add a little more liquid if it does not blend smoothly).

• Once smooth, pour soup into empty bowl or extra soup pot.

• Continue blending all of the soup.

• Adjust thickness by adding cream, milk or more stock if it is too thick.

• Taste soup and adjust seasoning.

• Serve warm with toasted seeds, a drizzle of olive oil and spoonful of sour cream.

To toast squash or pumpkin seeds: preheat oven to 275 degrees Fahrenheit, spread washed and dried seeds on a sheet tray and lightly season with salt. Bake for 10-15 minutes, shaking occasionally until seeds are lightly browned or start to pop.

December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

27

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Lifestyle Publication is on facebook!

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Connect with us today and read feature articles, view special offers, enter contests and more!

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West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

Five Highest Real Estate Sales in Lakota since 10/1/15 Days On Bed Bath Market List Price

Neighborhood

Street Address

Sale Price SP % LP

The Sanctuary

5511 Sanctuary Ridge

5

4-1

187

$719,000

$689,000

95.83%

Treillage

7401 W. Observatory

2

2-1

160

$819,500

$965,342

117.80%

Wetherington

7473 Shaker Run

5

5-2

56

$765,000

$740,000

96.73%

Harbour Towne

7023 Harbour Towne Dr

3

3

30

$580,000

$550,000

94.83%

Four Bridges

8083 Aster Ct

4

4-1

86

$588,900

$523,800

88.95%

Featured Listings

5705 Princeton Road

8207 Coral Bell Court

One of Liberty Township’s finest! Architectural charm of a classic stone farmhouse with modern amenities! Built in 1995 and situated on six acres, this 5500 sq ft home offers American cherry hardwood floors, 10' ceilings, two wood-burning fireplaces, den, sun porch, oversized garage, heated workshop and mini barn. Perfect for horses—a personal haven!

5826 Ferdinand Drive

Excellent condition with 5500 sq ft of living space! Custom built with lots of details throughout. View of fifth fairway! Finished lower level with theater room and bar. Twostory great room with built-ins. Huge kitchen with abundance of cabinet/counter space and hearth room. Jack & Jill Bedroom.First-floor guest suite with full bathroom. View of golf course from balcony off of the master suite!

Excellent condition! Great location! Custom built with lots of details! Wooded backyard.

10' ceilings. Living room with built-ins. Gourmet kitchen with granite, stainless steel appliances, cherry 42" cabinets. Hardwood floors in entry/ kitchen. Jack & Jill Bedrooms. Finished lower level with bar/wired for theatre area. 2660 sq ft + 1330 sq ft in finished lower level per Butler County Auditor.

Merry Christmas

May your holidays be filled with joy that lasts the whole year through!

Tiffany Allen-Zeuch

513-349-7311

executive sales vice president pbd, srs, relocation specialist tzeuch@sibcycline.com • www.tazhomes.com #1 Agent Sibcy Cline West Chester, 2014-2015

www.facebook.com/tazhomes

CABR-Circle of Excellence: 2005, 2009-2014 Sibcy Cline Top & Premier Clubs: 2004-2015 OAR President’s Sales Club: 2005-2015

Locally Owned

Family Trees STATION ROAD FARM MAKES CHRISTMAS TREE MAGIC

ARTICLE TOM W. BREWER | PHOTOGRAPHY PROVIDED

C

hristmas tree farms are magical. We go to sleep on a November night, all snug in our beds, and the next morning, as if by magic, gorgeous green trees are neatly arranged, ready to be chosen and cherished, decorated and loved. But don’t try to sell the people at West Chester’s Station Road Farm on all this wonder talk: they know firsthand how much work goes into making magic happen.

Station Road Farm is a locally-owned family business in the business of bringing families together. In 1968, Otto Binder bought a sprawling, 87-acre plot of land to keep himself and his wife Esther busy during his retirement years. Originally, the Binders grew tomatoes, but it wasn’t long until they were growing corn, peppers, green beans and other vegetables; they even raised cattle for a time.

After decades of growth, Otto’s son Steve and his wife Linda have been working the land at Station Road Farm. Naturally, Steve enlisted his family to help. There are three third-generation children working on the farm: Stephanie, Mike and Elizabeth. They work together coordinating the Christmas tree operations, among many other responsibilities.

Changing over from fall to winter is so different from their normal operations that Station Road Farm closes for a few days to complete the process. Through Halloween, they sell hundreds of pumpkins in their rustic outdoor store, from the smallest Cinderella to the largest “Big Mac.” The pumpkins get smuggled out to make way for the trees to arrive. Shipping out the pumpkins is a chore in its own right, but it’s nothing compared to getting the Christmas trees ready.

30

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

The work begins on an early November morning. The family and a team of elves gather at dawn to prep the land for the trees. This means using a powerful tractor to erect metal fence posts used for keeping the trees upright on the large, gravel lot. When the freshcut specimens arrive, the team arranges them in rows, allowing plenty of room for customers to inspect all angles of each individual tree. At the end of the day, they’ve only just begun; it takes several rounds of this process before all 400-500 future Christmas trees are in the ground. It isn’t magic, but all the backbreaking work is worth it for what comes next.

Station Road Farm re-opens for business as a veritable winter wonderland, packed with trees of every stripe. They offer several sizes of trees, from small table-toppers to those so tall you’ll need a ladder to crown it with a star. They also have a variety of species of trees to choose from: long-needled white pines, classic Fraser firs and others stand shoulder-to-shoulder, eagerly anticipating the moment they’re taken home.

Once you’ve found the perfect tree, the Station Road Farm crew readies it for your home. They take it to one of their on-site greenhouses and give it a second fresh cut. This cut helps with water absorption so your tree looks healthy all the way through the New Year. Then, your tree is netted for safe travels and loaded into (or onto) your vehicle. For those who love the tree but hate the clean up, you can buy a bag that you keep in your tree stand. Lift your bag to the top of your tree and—voila!—you’ve spared yourself from battling a piney mess.

You’ll find more than trees at Station Road Farm. You can have a wreath custom-made for your front door or pick up a charming set of ornaments. You’ll also find Christmas treasures to hang on your mantel and garland roping to add a festive accent to your home. Most importantly, Station Road Farm offers something you can’t buy in any store—a complete family experience. During the day, children can run in the open field or climb on the large playground while their parents shop in the farmer’s market. At night, the entire family can gather around a fire pit, sip hot cocoa, and make s’mores.

No matter the time of day or night, this is a place where traditions and memories are born.

Come for the Christmas trees and stay for the connection at this West Chester original. The Binder family Station Road Farm tree crew, at Station Road Farm works hard to led by the Binder family. make your holiday magical.

Station Road Farm offers something you can’t buy in any store—a complete family experience.

December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

31

Lifestyle Calendar

December DECEMBER 1 - 16 "AS SEEN THROUGH THE LENS OF A TEENAGER" STUDENT

10 a.m. to 3 p.m.; free photos with Santa are from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m.

Regionals.MiamiOH.edu/voalc/

PHOTO EXHIBIT

DECEMBER 12

MIAMI UNIVERSITY VOICE OF AMERICA LEARNING CENTER

CYCLONES STAR WARS NIGHT

View more than 40 images by students from Lakota East, Lako-

U.S. BANK ARENA

ta West, and Mason high schools. Mondays - Thursdays, 9 a.m. - 9

The Cyclones celebrate the release of Star Wars: Episode VII—The

p.m., Fridays, 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. West Chester Photo Club and MUVOA

Force Awakens with Star Wars Night. Meet favorite characters as the

Learning Center are sponsors. Awards by Dodd Camera and Pop

Cyclones take on the Icemen of Evansville. The team will wear spe-

Revolution Framing Gallery. Regionals.MiamiOH.edu/News/2015/

cially designed jerseys that will be auctioned off following the game.

High-School-Photo-Exhibition.htm

Doors open at 6:30 p.m. CyclonesHockey.com

DECEMBER 6

DECEMBER 13

SUNDAY AFTERNOON ESCAPE

SANTA’S BRUNCH

GRACETREE YOGA &

VOICE OF AMERICA METROPARK, RONALD REAGAN LODGE

GROWTH STUDIO

Feel the magic of the holidays at Santa’s Brunch for all ages. Tick-

Escape to Gracetree Yoga & Growth

ets include a lunch buffet, holiday-themed magic show by Charlie

Studio for their winter Open House, 4

Cadabra and a visit with Santa Claus. Framed photos available at

p.m. to 6 p.m. Bring a mat for a sample

an extra charge. Reservations are required; space is limited. Tick-

class at 4:15 p.m., followed by a treat of

ets: 513.867.5835. YourMetroParks.net

wine and light snacks. Mention Gracetree's ad in this issue to get a free Funky

DECEMBER 13

Yoga tank. GracetreeStudio.com

PIONEER CHRISTMAS

DECEMBER 11 - 13

CABIN IN THE CLEARING, KEEHNER PARK Go back in time and celebrate the holidays just like the pioneers

HOLIDAY POPS

did with a traditional holiday celebration. The Cabin in the Clearing

MUSIC HALL

will be decorated for the season and pioneer fare will be served. If

Cincinnati Pops Orchestra, under the direction of John Morris Russell,

you hear sleigh bells, that must mean that Santa is stopping by, too!

hosts vocal quartet New York Voices at this holiday concert. Cele-

WestChesterOH.org

brate the season with traditional and contemporary holiday tunes and dancers. Tickets are available online. Friday and Saturday shows start

DECEMBER 17 - 20

at 8 p.m.; Sunday show begins at 2 p.m. CincinnatiSymphony.org

MARVEL UNIVERSE LIVE

DECEMBER 12

U.S. BANK ARENA Spider Man, The Avengers, Iron Man, Hulk and more will take the

MIAMI HOLIDAY SHOPPING WITH SANTA

stage for an adventure of a lifetime. Tickets available now. Saturday

MIAMI UNIVERSITY VOICE OF AMERICA LEARNING CENTER

afternoon shows are at 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Sunday shows are sched-

Wondering what gift to get for that Miami University graduate in

uled for 1 p.m. and 5 p.m. USBankArena.com

your life? This is a one-stop shopping experience for you! Shop from

DECEMBER 17 ART OPENING ARTIST LOUNGE Join this artist coop on 3rd Thursday for Art Openings featuring local visual artists Ivanka Lempitskiy, Mary Beth Thompson Dowlin, Chelsea Borgman, Justin West and Dylan Tennison. Encounter the art and enjoy wine, hors-d-oeuvres, music and more. PRGArtistLounge.com

32

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

DECEMBER 18 - 27 THE NUTCRACKER ARONOFF CENTER—PROCTER & GAMBLE HALL Presented by the Cincinnati Ballet and sponsored by Frisch’s, this long-running holiday tradition continues. Follow Clara and the Nutcracker on a sweet journey, accompanied by the popular music of

business directory

Peter Ilyich Tchaikovsky, performed by the Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra. Tickets are on sale now. CincinnatiArts.org

DECEMBER 19 HOLIDAY MUSIC IN THE CAFÉ WITH DAVID SAMS WEST CHESTER MIDPOINTE LIBRARY Settle into the West Chester MidPointe Library Café to get into the holiday spirit with music provided by local guitarist David Sams. Enjoy soothing tunes of the season at this free concert. MidPointeLibrary.org

DECEMBER 23 COMMUNITY BLOOD DRIVE WEST CHESTER MIDPOINTE LIBRARY—COMMUNITY ROOM A/B Give the greatest gift one can give this holiday: the gift of life.

Blood supply typically runs low at this point in the year. Appointments are encouraged; please do not call the library for an appointment. Instead, visit the donor website or call 1.800.388.4483.

Use Sponsor ID #1479. DonorTime.com

DECEMBER 26 DULCIMER PERFORMANCE KROHN CONSERVATORY Hop aboard The Poinsettia Express, Krohn Conservatory’s Holiday Show, on display from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Look up from the beautiful displays to take in a dulcimer performance, a special event in the midst of the day. The performance is sponsored by the Cincinnati Dulcimer Society. CincinnatiParks.com

DECEMBER 30 HARLEM GLOBETROTTERS 90TH ANNIVERSARY TOUR U.S. BANK ARENA Cheer on basketball artists The Harlem Globetrotters as they bring their 90th Anniversary Tour to U.S. Bank Arena. Stick around after the game for autographs, photographs and high-fives from the stunning team. Tipoffs at 2 p.m. and 7 p.m. USBankArena.com

DECEMBER 31 HAPPY ZOO YEAR CINCINNATI ZOO & BOTANICAL GARDEN

ART & PHOTOGRAPHY HOME SERVICES Maslov Photography (513) 777-4745 maslovphotography.com

AUTOMOTIVE

BMW of Cincinnati North (513) 782-1122 bmwofcincinnatinorth.com

DANCE

West Chester Academy (513) 829-2345 westchesteracademy.com

EDUCATION

Miami University Voice of America Learning Center (513) 895-8862 miamioh.edu/voalc

FAITH

Lord of Life Lutheran Church (513) 777-8449 lol-lutheran.com

Renewal by Andersen (513) 985-7918

PROPERTY & REAL ESTATE Tiffany Allen-Zeuch - Sibcy Cline (513) 349-7311 tazhomes.com

RESTAURANTS, FOOD & BEVERAGE The Jaded Fork (513) 201-8706 thejadedfork.com

SALONS & SPAS Blow Dry Bar & Salon (513) 777-3800 cincyblowdrybar.com

SHOPPING CENTERS Liberty Center liberty-center.com/

HEALTH & WELLNESS SPECIALTY SHOPS Diet Center (513) 779-6500 dietcentercincinnati.com

Cincinnati Home Theater (513) 791-4663 cincinnatihometheaters.net

Gracetree Yoga & Growth Studio (513) 759-4458 gracetreestudio.com

The Spicy Olive (513) 847-4397 thespicyolive.com

HOME BUILDERS & REMODELERS Carriage Hill (513) 894-4455 carriagehillliving.com

Welling & Co. (513) 779-8883 wellingsjewelers.com

HOME DESIGN & FURNISHINGS

Pop Revolution (513) 492-7474 poprevolutiongallery.com

It’s Cincinnati Zoo’s New Year’s Eve bash, complete with shows by Madcap Puppet Theater, a meet and greet with Father Time and Baby Zoo Year, and a kid-friendly countdown at 8:55 p.m. Fireworks

by Rozzi Fireworks. This event is a part of the Festival of Lights 2015. CincinnatiZoo.org

December 2015 | West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle

33

Parting Thoughts

Gifts of the Season WORDS TERA MICHELSON

H

e was just four when he spotted it. It was like in the comics, when the bubble over a character’s head gets filled with a brightly lit bulb. It was one of those “Aha!” moments mamas love to witness, but I was distracted, digging in my bottomless purse for the keys to the minivan.

“Mommy! Look!” he pleaded, pulling on my arm. He leaned back a little to peer out from under the fluffy hood on his coat, and pointed up. It was Isaac’s first holiday light sighting of the year, a small tree atop a tall building, shining like a beacon over the city.

“It’s a Christmas tree!” he said with awe. “That means the building under it is a giant gift!”

He had no idea how right he was. The building under the tree was our local hospital. We were in the parking lot, having just left an appointment to check his troubled ears. It was one in a series of appointments that eventually led him to several surgeries.

We couldn’t have known then how appropriate it was that he pointed out that the hospital was a huge gift box. The place was overflowing with dedicated staff, compassionate and kind doctors, nurses and technicians; the brightest and best were there, attending to our town’s sick and hurting—working on my boy. I could think of no better gift to our family and the city than that hospital gift box and its contents.

Now, many years later and after two ear surgeries this year alone, we still spend our fair share of time zipping up and down the highway to clinics and hospitals. We now have access to the best pediatric health services available in the country right here in our community. We’ve experienced a miracle in Isaac’s restored hearing and now healthy ear. We’ve shared the joy of that success with his surgeon and an attentive caregiving team that smiles with their eyes, their mouths hidden behind surgical masks. We know the relief and delight it is to take a peek into the giant gift box that good health is to our family.

This is me, pulling on your arm, pleading for you to “Look!” this holiday season. Let the wonder of the holidays change your perspective, like Isaac changed mine that cold day many Decembers ago. Look up from your to-do lists or whatever else is a distraction and take a moment to notice the many gifts around you: the sparkle on the ice and snow, in the lights of your neighbor’s Clark Griswold light display, and in the eyes of your loved ones. Picture a lit tree shining over the tops of your favorite people and places. They are giant gifts, each and every one.

34

West Chester and Liberty Lifestyle | December 2015

Celebrate

the Holidays

AND STAR T Y O UR TR A DI TI O N S A T LI B ER T Y C E N TER

GIVE THE GIFT of Liberty Center this holiday season!

Located between Cincinnati and Dayton on I75 | Exit 24 | Liberty Way | www.liberty-center.com