December 2020 253 Lifestyle by Like Media

ISSUE NO. 24

DECEMBER 2020

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

NOURISH PIERCE COUNTY LOCAL FOOD BANK INSTILLS HOPE

Q&A WITH DAWN MORRIS TEACHER, MOTHER, AUTHOR, BUSINESS OWNER

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Peace on Earth Happy Holidays from the Westmorelands to YOU!

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MARKETING WASHINGTON DIRECTOR Cassie Riendeau | 360.798.3061 cassie@like-media.com WASHINGTON EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR Julie Reed | 253.273.8524 julie@like-media.com

EDITORIAL EDITOR IN CHIEF Jillian Chandler | jillian@like-media.com STAFF WRITERS Colin Anderson | colin@like-media.com Abigail Thorpe | abigail@like-media.com

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253 Lifestyle Magazine is published monthly and distributed freely throughout the Pacific Northwest. Opinions expressed in articles or advertisements do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. 253 Lifestyle Magazine is not responsible for omissions or information that has been misrepresented to the magazine. 253 Lifestyle Magazine is produced and published by Like Media, and no part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted without the permission of the publisher.

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Farewell to a year of hardship and perseverance DECEMBER MARKS THE FINAL MONTH OF 2020—a year that has most certainly changed us all, and ultimately has made us stronger. Stronger individuals. Stronger families. Stronger employees. Stronger members of our communities. As we reflect on this eventful year filled with what, at the beginning of 2020, would have seemed unimaginable, we must not focus our attention on what was, but what is and what will be. This month marks a joyous time of year; the birth of our Lord. For Christians, no matter their denomination, it is a time of hope and a faith in a brighter future. This year, more than ever, as we celebrate His birth, may we remember His life was one filled with sacrifice and hardship. Take solace in knowing that we do not know what the future holds, but that we can make the most of even those most difficult trials.

NOURISH PIERCE COUNTY: LOCAL FOOD BANK INSTILLS HOPE

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Q&A WITH DAWN MORRIS: TEACHER, MOTHER, AUTHOR, BUSINESS OWNER

As we celebrate the Christmas and holiday season with our loved ones—though this may look different than years before—take the time to acknowledge, and appreciate, all that you have truly been blessed with. It is all too easy to put our attention to the negative; make it a priority to instead dedicate your thoughts and actions to the positives. In our December issue of 253 Lifestyle Magazine, you will once again be reminded of how fortunate we are to call this place home. There is no other place we would rather be. Look around at the beauty that surrounds us year-round, and those people in our community who brighten our days. We are blessed. Our team at Like Media is truly grateful to you for embracing us, and the work we do, through 253 Lifestyle Magazine. Blessings to you this Christmas, and may they continue through the new year.

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253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

CONTENTS 16

H OME The Warmth and Love of Tradition: Old favorites spark happy memories

22 36

28 Q& A

HE ALT H & LIF E S TY L E

Holiday Entertaining 101: Bring some excitement into your home this season

Q&A with Dawn Morris: Teacher, mother, author, business owner

The latest tips and trends about living a healthy, active lifestyle

TR E NDING

TACOMA FO CUS Nourish Pierce County: Local food bank instills hope

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TH E ART S

BU S IN E S S P IN P O I N T

Welcome the New Year in Comfort and Safety: Celebrate the arrival of 2021 at home

Epic Health: Discovering the root of the problem

sneak peek into December ... 60

ISSUE NO. 24

DECEMBER 2020

LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

NOURISH PIERCE COUNTY

LOCAL FOOD BANK INSTILLS HOPE

F E ATUR E

FEAT U R E D R ECIP E

Memories from His Youth: The images of Pearl Harbor lived on for Navy veteran

Christmas in a bowl! Enjoy this homemade treat sure to please your palate!

ENTE RTA I NMENT

TRAV E L & LE IS U R E

The seasonal events that you don’t want to miss out on!

Village Shines Bright in Leavenworth, Washington: Stunning light display will go on

Q&A WITH DAWN MORRIS TEACHER, MOTHER, AUTHOR, BUSINESS OWNER

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About The Cover ‘TIS THE SEASON TO BE INSPIRED, which is exactly what this month’s Q&A with Dawn Morris, teacher, mother, author and business owner is certain to leave you. From the death of her daughter to her spiritual journey, you can read more about Dawn on page 28. Cover photo by Samantha Elise Tillman.

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Home

the warmth and love of tradition OLD FAVORITES SPARK HAPPY MEMORIES BY NIKKI LUTTMANN, INTERIOR DESIGNER

hat a year this has been. As I write this, my family and I are in quarantine due to COVID-19, which struck our household, kids and all. This year, I’ve written several articles on the importance of home as a place of shelter and respite in our hectic lives. At no time has that been more evident than in 2020, with the pandemic, wildfires, murder hornets and the contentious presidential election. Whoa. Many of us may be feeling too tired to celebrate, which is understandable, but I believe a little celebration is in order. It’s time to celebrate our families, our community and the possibility of a fresh start that 2021 brings. Christmas decorating and traditions have always been a bit of a passion of mine. As children, my sister and I always had new crafts going, encouraged by our artistic mother to create gifts for people, ornaments for our tree and décor for the house. We spent hours beading, drawing, creating (one year even doing stained glass) in preparation for the Christmas season. As I got older, I’ve loved collecting things that help my kids see the holiday through the lens of family tradition and the meaning of togetherness. However, this has always been tempered by my designer instincts, as I like things to look a “certain way.” One of my first experiences with decorating on a massive scale was at a destination ski resort, where I somehow got put in charge of doing the Christmas decorations for the village and lodge lobbies. I was thrilled! I carefully chose oversize baubles and bows, colors carefully coordinated with the theme of each hotel, and dutifully set up trees, tied ribbons, hung wreaths and placed pre-wrapped packages under each tree. It was beautiful—magazine worthy even. But, it lacked soul. It didn’t have the joyous, family centric, haphazard feel that embodies the spirit of the holiday season. I love it when the stockings hung by the fireplace with care are well worn and have been loved for many past Christmases. When the ornaments on the tree each tell a story or prompt a remembrance. When the Christmas cookies are displayed proudly on a chipped, but well-loved, inherited tray. These details are what make a house a home, especially at the holidays. Now, that doesn’t mean that we can’t invest in some new pieces—I’d never say that; I’m a designer, after all. Changing things up is in my blood! But, keeping some traditions alive while bringing in a new faux-fur throw or spectacular lamp is always a good idea. Mixing the old with the new is how we balance out our lives and our homes.

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For our family, celebrating means a warm glow in the fireplace, lights on the Christmas tree and having good friends over for treats and toddies. This year, I’ve talked about forgoing our usual traditional Christmas ornaments and investing in something different. I’d love to do all white Christmas décor, simplifying the look to make it more understated and elegant. However, I know the girls will want to bring out their tried-and-true favorites; the ornaments that make us smile and the colorful stockings that speak to their personalities. These are our Christmas traditions, and while they may not always be the most beautiful, they certainly are the ones that warm our hearts this time of year. So, this Christmas, when it comes to decorating, don’t aim for perfection. Instead, celebrate the past that has made our today possible, with all its imperfections. And by all means, let’s welcome 2021 together! The following is one of our family’s favorite Christmas cookies: Lonnie’s Raspberry Roll-Ups. Ingredients: 1 cup unsalted butter 8 oz. cream cheese 2 cups flour 1 tsp. salt raspberry jam Method: Preheat the oven to 400˚F. Blend room-temperature butter and cream cheese until smooth. Add flour and salt. Mix well. Chill dough for at least 30 minutes. Roll out on a floured surface to ¼-inch thick. Cut into 2-inch by 4-inch triangles and place a dollop of jam on each, before folding the ends of the triangle in, forming a loose roll. Place on a cookie sheet, cover loosely with foil, and bake until golden (10 to 12 minutes).

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Blessings to you this

Holiday Season

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Trending HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING 101 Bring some excitement into your home this season By Abigail Thorpe

hristmas is about coming together as friends and family to celebrate, find joy in the holiday and enjoy time with the ones we love. This year holiday entertaining will look a little different than normal. We will forgo the large parties and events for more intimate gatherings and dinners, but that doesn’t mean a little planning and preparations can’t go a long way. Tammi Barber of TLB Events and its new brickand-mortar lifestyle and celebration boutique Frills in downtown Gig Harbor, Washington, shares some tips and tricks for throwing the perfect holiday celebration—be it a dinner, brunch or dessert and gift exchange. And this year, it’s time to step out of the box with bright colors, whimsical décor and allaround fun! Build memories with surprises this year. Go the extra mile … “I always say some of the top things are going to be making things as warm and inviting as possible, and because you are spending time with family and friends, don’t eliminate the possibility of surprise and going that extra mile to make it special,” says Barber.

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Remember small details. Sometimes it’s the small things you do to make people comfortable that make a gathering memorable. No matter how small or large your gathering is, focus on making it an experience for your guests. • Table settings are the perfect opportunity to add a little extra flair to your entertaining. “It’s the perfect opportunity to show them how much you love them by putting the extra time into that table setting,” explains Barber. Spend some extra time thinking about what will make your table delight guests and reflect the season, keeping with tradition while pairing with some fun and not-so-traditional elements. And don’t be afraid to mix colors and patterns. Celebrate the day by bringing out Great Great Grandma’s heirloom toasting glasses; a piece of tradition to pair with your fun, modern wares. • Gift thoughtfully. We all have plenty of stuff. A gift doesn’t need to be large or expensive. Make it a treasure that person will keep— and maybe even pass down. And don’t forget the packaging of the gift. A beautifully wrapped gift makes the recipient feel special and shows the effort put into making the outside as important as what’s on the inside. • Don’t keep your guests waiting. Be ready with something as soon as they walk in the door, be it a warm drink, a snack or some activity. This helps relieve the sometimes awkward opening moments when people aren’t quite sure what to do with themselves, explains Barber. And don’t forget to have toys or some type of activity ready if kids will be present.

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It’s in the details ... As Barber says, “Memories are made of those extra details.” • Make it a magical and unforgettable experience. When your guests step through your door, welcome them into your holiday wonderland, with no detail left unturned. Incorporate bold colors—like a pink Christmas tree—to pair with your monochromatic tones. Instead of a classic green tree, try a pop of color in the room. You can spray paint a flocked tree any color you wish. Rather than using that ordinary star or angel, try different materials for a tree topper. When decorating the mantle, opt for repeating patterns while also bringing out colors you already have. • Place cards. We may think they’re old fashioned, but place cards help alleviate awkward moments when people are trying to figure out where to sit or place their glass. “Sometimes things people also forget are beautiful napkin treatments—things that spruce up a table that don’t have to be extensive,” adds Barber. • Family traditions are essential for a family gathering. “What are those things you can bring out that people are going to be excited to see again, especially since holidays of past years are going to be a bit different than this year?” asks Barber. Or perhaps you can start a new tradition that will be continued in years to come. “Especially now, time is so precious, and people are really finding that life is not going to go on forever. Capitalize on the parts that are most important.”

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Plan ahead … Holiday entertaining can be a stressful event, and everyone knows things always take longer than you expect. Plan ahead of time so you can enjoy the evening. “If you’re hosting, be able to be host,” says Barber. “A lot of time people don’t remember that, and they get all of these people to their house and they don’t see them; they’re doing something the whole time.” • Do whatever you can ahead of time so that when your company arrives you can be present with them and not stuck in the kitchen. Find time-savers that will keep you away from the kitchen as much as possible. Not every place setting needs glass or china, explains Barber. There are lots of beautiful disposable options that will save time on dishes. And why stop there? With numerous options available to rent, such as chairs, table linens, flatware and dishware (courtesy of Cort Party Rental) for special gatherings like these, make it easy on yourself by eliminating the cleanup and storing of these items once the fun has ended.

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• If there is gifting involved, make sure your gifts are all wrapped ahead of time so you’re not darting off to get things ready while company is there. Better yet, wrap your gifts as you buy them to make things stress free later on. Barber puts a note on the bottom of each wrapped gift to remember what it is, then just quickly removes it when it comes time to gift. Also, make a point to wrap gifts using the same color tones to create a visual under your tree that is truly special. • Don’t forget photos. Make it part of the tradition to take family photos right as guests arrive and are fresh, that way you don’t forget. “Remembering photos is one of those things that people just forget about,” explains Barber, “but they are so important for marking family occasions and remembering those who have passed later on.” Whatever your holiday entertaining plans may bring, just remember to plan ahead, make it magical and be present and enjoy the moment. “Think of all the things that can make your guests feel comfortable and welcome, and they will linger,” says Barber. The sign of a perfect event is guests leaving with the thought: “That was fun!”

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Tacoma

NOURISH

PIERCE COUNTY LOCAL FOOD BANK INSTILLS HOPE BY RACHEL KELLY

t’s easy to look at the ugly side of things. To bypass hope; to descend into the dark winter. It’s obvious to everyone, especially as we approach the end of this year, that this has been a year of unique challenges. One of those challenges being hunger. In response to a greater than average need, local food banks have risen to the challenge. And they have done so with limited staff and fewer resources. Ironically, there has also been a shortage of food. The challenges of this year were no less difficult for Nourish Pierce County, a local food bank. In normal months, Nourish serves 7 percent of the Pierce County population. In May and June, Nourish provided enough meals for over 1 million meals—a 50 percent increase from the same time last year, making it the highest number of families and individuals to show up at their food banks in the history of their nonprofit. This is especially impressive, since they were founded in 1982. It would be easy to let the story end there, but there’s more to tell. This year has marked an increase in need, but it has also been characterized by the quality of our community. At Nourish Pierce County, one of their volunteers commented, “We’re not just giving out food, we’re giving out hope and kindness.” That, in a nutshell, summarizes the intentionality and flexibility of Nourish Pierce County to respond to this season. Regardless of this year’s circumstances, Nourish has held fast to their mission. That mission being all the more important under pressure: to provide nutritious food to those in need with compassion, dignity and respect.

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Compassion is seen in their volunteers, many of whom are or were recipients of food from Nourish. The nonprofit has 25 locations across Pierce County, with only a paid staff of 19. Nourish heavily relies on its 1,000 dedicated volunteers to help out with the day-to-day operations. This dedicated response from community volunteers shows just how vital Nourish is in the community. A lot of these volunteers reside in the high-risk category, so they have been sheltering in place. Thankfully, the National Guard has stepped in to fill the shoes of the absent volunteers. Nourish looks forward to the return of their volunteers soon. And if that is not possible, they hope that healthier community members will be able to fill in the gap come January. It takes a community to serve a community. Nourish Pierce County also strives to restore dignity to a process usually enshrined with shame. Because food is a basic need that we partake in several times a day, the lack of it makes us feel incapable. Devoid of comfort. Worthless. These feelings often follow those who walk into food pantries, and it increases as they are asked to divulge their ID or proof of income at the door. Do they really need help? Are they truly destitute? At Nourish, the process of receiving food is different. It’s one of dignity. At Nourish Pierce County, everyone is given a shopping cart, just like in the grocery store. Clients are allowed to choose the food that fits within their cultural, dietary or religious needs. Such a simple thing: choice. Often taken for granted, it is a luxury that has the power to restore confidence. And, as Nourish intimately understands, is deeply tied to dignity. Nourish Pierce County shows respect by their personal approach to every client. A personal attendant guides each shopper through the “grocery store-style food bank,” highlighting the ins and outs of what and how much. Put simply, Nourish gives everyone around them the time of day, instilling in every member a sense of worth; a sense of worth that is so often stripped away by life’s burdens. From one person to another, we pass on feelings of worth, strength, grace, joy and care. Nourish Pierce County is remarkable in that they recognize that exchange and are intentional to see it through, tying together compassion, dignity and respect is this idea of accessibility.

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THE PROCESS OF

RECEIVING FOOD IS DIFFERENT.

IT’S ONE OF DIGNITY.

Nourish Pierce County powers seven brick-and-mortar locations throughout the community, with two mobile food banks that travel to areas where food is difficult to access. Places where grocery stores are few and junk food is aplenty. Having heard that college students are at a high risk for malnutrition due to low income and busy schedules, they also serve on college campuses. They serve at Mary Bridge Children’s Center, taking some of the pressure off of families with health complications. Nourish Pierce County breaks down barriers that keep families from accessing nutritious food by going where they’re asked and by giving where they’re needed. And there has certainly been need this year. The pandemic has made a lot of their programs look different. Thankfully, their long presence in the community puts them in a prime position to help and adjust.

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Now, instead of shopping, clients drive up with their vehicles to receive a box of food from National Guard volunteers. They also have fewer volunteers, so their capacity for connection is minimal. Time with each family and individual is short, which makes giving all the more intentional. Every box is a lifeline and a show of hope; everyone will eat. With every box, Nourish Pierce County reinstalls the hope that we are capable, that we will move through this, and that we may even flourish! Just like other nonprofits, Nourish Pierce County has also had to be flexible in this year’s fundraisers. Luckily, the community has once again come through. Last month, Frugal’s sold a Gouda burger in their honor, with proceeds donated to the pantry. Community members have donated their stimulus check. Donations have been coming in from Amazon Smile. And more. There are lots of easy ways to give to Nourish Pierce County, especially through volunteering. From small businesses to large businesses alike, money for Nourish Pierce County has come in when our community need is at its highest. This month, Nourish Pierce County is promoting a “Tis the Season, Hunger’s the Reason” food drive. And they are in need of hosts! The need may be great, but our community has and will show itself to be greater. Just like the rest of us, Nourish Pierce County isn’t sure what the future holds, so they are keeping themselves open and flexible. Whatever comes they will rise to meet it. Serving community with community. Giving out hope with every box of food, and every full belly. Ensuring compassion, dignity and respect to all who come to them in need. No matter the background. No matter the circumstance. Nourish Pierce County welcomes you. If you would like to find out more or make a monetary donation to Nourish Pierce County, please visit NourishPC.org.

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TEACHER, MOTHER, AUTHOR, BUSINESS OWNER BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND

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“I’VE FOLLOWED JESUS FOR 40 YEARS NOW, THROUGH MANY TRIALS AND HARDSHIPS. HE’S ALWAYS BEEN FAITHFUL. ALL THROUGH THAT DARK TIME OF WALKING THROUGH THE DEATH OF OUR DAUGHTER, GOD CONTINUALLY PROVIDED ALL OF OUR NEEDS. I HAVE PEACE BECAUSE LINDSEY LOVED JESUS.”

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awn Morris could aptly be called a renaissance woman. She served her community as a teacher, owns her own business and is an author whose work is inspired by her own faith journey, all while raising five children.

Q. You have been both a teacher and a homeschool mom. Can you give our readers some tips on how to navigate homeschooling? A. Give yourself grace. Chances are, as a parent, you didn’t have homeschooling “modeled” for you. Homeschooling doesn’t have to look like a classroom. You have an advantage over a teacher because you know and love your child. You’ll know when your child really doesn’t “get” something or when they’re not doing their best. My children were highly motivated to be able to go and play outside, so they typically finished their assignments before lunch. Homeschooling means more time to be a kid—and no homework! You have time to “dive deep” into subjects your child is interested in and have fun learning together! Expect conflict. View it as an opportunity to address character issues in yourself or your child. Both my husband and I would regularly have “state of the union” discussions where we would share concerns or encouragement about how we were relating to each of our children. Being quick to ask forgiveness was a high priority as we raised our five kids. If you are a single parent, I think it is important to have regular conversations with someone you trust. We all need a soundingboard as we navigate parenting—especially when adding a big responsibility like homeschooling during a pandemic. Q. How does one go from being a teacher to owning a salon? A. [My daughter] Lindsey was a stylist but stopped doing what she loved because it’s not always a great working environment. … So, when we decided to open a business in the

community, we decided the Bishops Cut and Color franchise was a great fit with our values. We believe that stylists and barbers are artists who make us look good! Our store is a positive environment where our staff are all valued as unique individuals. At Bishops University Place, our foundation rests on customer service, taking pride in our craft, and creating a space where everyone is accepted. Q. You lost your daughter in a horrific motorcycle accident. Many of us are suffering the loss of loved ones during the COVID-19 pandemic. Can you share with our readers how your faith helped you cope with such a devastating loss? A. Death is terrible, and even though it’s a reality, it’s unnatural and wrong. I believe that’s why Jesus wept just before raising Lazarus from the dead. The worst thing I’ve ever had to do was to drive to my husband’s work and tell him that our daughter, Lindsey, had been killed. I’ve followed Jesus for 40 years now, through many trials and hardships. He’s always been faithful. All through that dark time of walking through the death of our daughter, God continually provided all of our needs. I have peace because Lindsey loved Jesus. So, I have confidence that she’s not gone, she’s only gone ahead. Q. Not only are you a business woman owning your own hip fusion barbershop/salon, but you are the author of The One Series, a set of books with fictional characters living in a world based on your interpretation of the Book of Revelation in the Bible. Many think of the Bible as only a spiritual book. As an English minor in college, can you share how the book is also a great work of literature?

It is a book which holds many themes that begin in Genesis and end in Revelation. I used to be an atheist but became a Christian after listening to a pastor teach Revelation verse by verse. The perfectly fulfilled prophecies of the first coming of Jesus Christ convinced me of the accuracy of the Bible as a whole. As a writer, and a minor in English, I was fascinated with the structure of Revelation. Little in the book is actually new information! There are over 800 allusions and direct quotes from the Old Testament. The book of Revelation puts those prophecies in sequential order. When writing the One series, I used the structure of the book of Revelation as the “spine” of my storyline. As I wrote, I tried to imagine what those prophecies coming to pass in our day would look like. The characters changed and developed as they learned how to cope with incredibly frightening situations and supernatural experiences. Q. Growing up in the Bible Belt where whole cities just shut down on Sunday mornings so people could go to church, what was it like to move to a more secular area of the country? A. My husband and I have moved to a new house 17 times in 35 years of marriage—two of those times to other countries which are very secular, so it really wasn’t a shock moving to this area. I was shocked at how many churches there are and how many people are involved in a variety of ministries. There are organizations who care for the homeless, that care for victims of sex trafficking, children who are in Child Protective Services, help people learn new skills. … It’s truly amazed me how the community does try and care in so many ways for other people.

A. The Bible is unique as far as religious literature goes. It’s actually made up of 66 books, written by 40 authors over a period of about 1,500 years. 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 31

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tâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s generally accepted by the medical profession that social connection is essential for our well-being. While the basic human needs are met by access to food, shelter and water, the psyche thrives on socialization, expression and sense of accomplishment, collectively forming the basic elements of our humanity. Psychological health and physical health are linked. At a young age, children are taught to connect: share, build relationships and create as a team. Engaging through social connection during a pandemic has been challenging, as access to arts and culture has evaporated due to the vital restrictions for health. How can we use the arts to stay connected in the midst of pandemic? The internet and social media platforms have made communication instantly accessible. The interactions with and support for the community by local agencies during the stay-home orders have resulted in new experiences and opportunities that highlight the resourcefulness and imagination of arts organizations. As distance learning flooded home device screens, Tacoma Arts Liveâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s education team quickly adapted their arts programs to find new ways to continue teaching positive social skills for students, families and adults, while maintaining the governmentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s health and safety protocols. Tacoma Arts Live is intrinsically a community-serving group, but during a global pandemic, we are forced to find creative solutions for providing services. When quarantine first began, Tacoma Arts Live partnered with Greater Tacoma Community Foundation to offer emergency day camps to students whose parents work as first responders, healthcare professionals or other essential roles. This program supported these families by teaching students positive coping skills through arts expression. This type of social-emotional learning is an extension of the existing Tacoma Whole Child initiative, which gives students access to expanded learning opportunities that focus on building relationships and skills before, during and after school. Each spring, arts students and families await the announcement of play and musical titles to be performed by the Youth Conservatory Summer Camps.The pandemic halted these summer programs, and the arts educators of Tacoma Arts Live pivoted into adapting summer camps for

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distance learning. This summer’s camps were streamed via interactive video calls and included both on- and off-screen creative time. Subjects covered included artistic skills like costuming, storytelling, puppetry, among others. For some students, it was the most interaction they had all summer due to the stay-home order in Washington state. At the end of one class, a student made the comment that being in this class with their peers “makes [them] feel like [they’re] not alone.” Teaching artists were able to open up a safe space for students to work through their emotions during isolation while still socializing with peers and having fun making art. In addition to having a safe space to connect, students were able to learn positive ways to heal, cope and communicate. The LENS Project, standing for Learning Empathy, Negotiation and Self, is a program created by Tacoma Arts Live that uses the arts to explicitly teach social-emotional skills. The program serves grade-school students and their families in Bethel, Tacoma, Franklin Pierce and Clover Park school districts. In the afterschool program, students dive deeply into learning how to approach conflict in a healthy manner. The Family Art Series is an extension of LENS and consists of using theater performance and visual arts activities to bond families in a creative way. Family activities reflect on behavior, emotion management, and ways to overcome challenges as a family unit. Using a variety of art activities to teach positive social skills, participants learn to work through emotions and find healthy ways to resolve conflict. Through the arts, the program empowers individuals and inspires change in communities. Additionally, The LENS Project is presented to military adults and families through a partnership with Joint Base Lewis McCord and Art Therapy NW. The fall 2020 programming featured some in-person, physically distant family programming at JBLM’s Exceptional Military Family Member facility, part of the Ready and Resilient Division of the Army. The arts activities for these military members aim to identify, name and begin to shape personal stories and aspirations, culminating in a presentation of their stories with the support of a group of actors. Tacoma Arts Live’s education department is one of the largest Education through the Arts programs in Washington state and includes several programs that serve the South Sound region and beyond. The nonprofit arts organization focuses on creating equitable and accessible experiences, ensuring that no student is ever turned away due to an inability to pay. The culture of a region relies on the people within the community to interact, build relationships, find ways to support each other, express creatively and collectively cope with challenges. These socialemotional skills are not just learned from the family structures but from within the community itself. The pandemic has made it all the more important that these arts and culture programs persist for youth and community at large. To learn more about Tacoma Arts Live’s Education through the Arts programs, visit TacomaArtsLive.org. 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 35

Health M A S S AG E More than just a feel-good treatment BY SARAH SHUPE, CERTIFIED MEDICAL ASSISTANT

hen we hear the word massage we think of relaxation, self-care and a spa day. While a massage feels great and helps you transport to a relaxing oasis, it can also have health benefits. Below we break down different types of massage and the added health benefits from this incredibly soothing treatment. What are the different types of massage? When it comes to scheduling a massage, it is important to know that there are different modalities that offer a completely customized experience. Let your massage therapist know what you are hoping to get out of your treatment, any problem areas or soreness, and any pre-existing health conditions. Deep tissue massage is sustained pressure using slow, deep strokes to target the inner layer of your muscles and connective tissues. This massage can address chronic pain within the body while aiding in relaxation. Many clients refer to this type of massage as a “hurt so good.” Swedish massage helps to relieve stress and aid in relaxation. This massage is a combination of long strokes with light pressure, and extra attention is given to the hands, feet and scalp. Prenatal massage reduces pregnancy aches and pains while easing stress and muscle tension. You are placed in a side lying position and supported with pillows to make you and your bump comfortable. It is important that you see a massage therapist who has training in prenatal massage to ensure yours and baby’s health.

What are the health benefits of massage? Myofascial release is a gentle technique in massage that targets pain arising from the fascia. Fascia are fibrous connective tissues that weave throughout the body, attaching, separating and supporting muscles, bones, ligaments and internal organs. When the fascia is healthy, it is supple, allowing smooth, pain-free movement. When it is unhealthy, the fibers become tight, limiting mobility and causing stiffness and pain. Lymphatic drainage is a technique that stimulates natural drainage of the lymph system, which helps to eliminate waste from the body. The goal is to move the fluid out of the tissues and into the lymph nodes, where bacteria, viruses and other harmful microorganisms are destroyed. Lymphatic drainage aids in strengthening your immune system, helps to reduce cellulite and improve your mood. Quicker recovery from workouts is at the top of every athlete’s list. Massage increases circulation to muscles and connective tissue, allowing you to bounce back more quickly from difficult workouts. It can also be helpful in alleviating pain from muscle strain. Massage is all about feeling refreshed, relaxed and recharged; releasing endorphins to help our bodies deal with stress and pain, aiding in making us a better version of ourselves. Schedule a massage with a certified massage therapist to explore the health benefits of taking care of your body and spirit.

Massage is all about feeling refreshed, relaxed and recharged. 36 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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Health MANAGING STRESS IN TURBULENT TIMES Simple, science-backed tools for self-care BY SARAHLYNN M. ETTA, LMT, CMLDT, E-RYT

ake a moment to notice your body. Are your shoulders elevated, jaw clenched or breath shallow? Pause and take several deep breaths. What do you notice? Has anything changed? This very simple process can interrupt the stress response, calm the nervous system and help prepare you to respond to life’s stressors. Stress is simply the body’s reaction to changes, challenges and the perceived loss of control. In small quantities, stress is beneficial, providing the energy needed to react quickly and avoid danger. When stress is chronic, or when we lack the tools to manage it, it becomes problematic. Signs of chronic stress include muscle tension, headaches, digestive problems, inflammation, difficulty concentrating and anxiousness.

Have a little more time to invest? Practice meditation. Frequent meditators show improved mood, resilience and emotional intelligence, as well as the ability to work more effectively under stress. Regular meditation may also help shore up the body against the deleterious effects of long-term stress. Get moving, preferably outdoors. The benefits of exercise, including improved energy, stamina and heart health, also help protect the body from the effects of chronic stress. Spending time in nature has benefits for physical, mental and emotional health, so take your exercise outside whenever you can!

Evidence suggests that it is not the intensity of stress or the number of stressors that are most indicative of outcomes, but rather our perceptions of it and reactions to it! Learning to respond to acute stressors in the moment, as well as building skills to cope with ongoing stress, can help support our mental, emotional and physical health.

Learn a mind-body practice. Yoga and tai chi share the benefits of physical exercise, but also include meditation and focused breathing! These practices have been shown to improve mind-body awareness, boost mood, improve overall sense of well-being and alleviate the symptoms of stress, anxiety and depression.

What can you do in the moment?

Get a massage. Massage therapy improves sleep, alleviates the symptoms of anxiety and depression, and lowers heart rate and blood pressure. Ask your massage therapist to incorporate music or aromatherapy that you find relaxing, increase/decrease the warmth of the room or table, or incorporate a guided meditation or progressive relaxation.

Pause. The simple act of breaking the pattern of response is powerful, interrupting the stress cycle and allowing a moment to calm the mind. Try a simple practice like counting to 10. Breathe. Conscious breathing calms the nervous system, lowers blood pressure and may support emotional regulation. Try taking a few deep inhales and slow exhales, keeping your thoughts fully present with the sensation of your breath. Smile. Even if you fake it! Smiling releases feel-good chemicals in the brain that relax the body, boost mood, lower heart rate and decrease blood pressure. Use affirmations. Make a positive statement in the present tense, such as “I am calm and relaxed.” Affirmations work through neuroplasticity— ”reprogramming” the brain.

Maintain your social connections. Cultivating and maintaining positive social connections improves the ability to cope with stress, alleviates the symptoms of anxiety, and is correlated with overall improved mental health and higher self-esteem. Do what you can to safely stay in touch with others, using technology to your advantage. Sarahlynn is owner, massage therapist, movement educator and meditation enthusiast at Maitri Movement & Massage and is committed to helping people live their happiest, healthiest lives. To read the full article, see additional resources, sign up for a yoga class or schedule a massage, visit MaitriMovement.com/stress.

Spending time in nature has benefits for physical, mental and emotional health. 38 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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DISCOVERING THE ROOT OF THE PROBLEM Restoring health from the inside out BY JILLIAN CHANDLER

ashington native and Gig Harbor resident Kristen Barrett is on a mission to restore health in our local communities. With a passion for helping others live healthier, happier lives, she decided to pursue a path in the health and nutrition field. She enrolled in an intensive program studying holistic nutrition, continually developing her knowledge and nurturing her talents, and today is a Functional Diagnostic Nutrition Practitioner.

She is the proud owner of Epic Health, which she launched in 2018. “My business and I are going three years strong, and I’m just getting started,” she smiles. Kristen strives to give her clients the tools they need to move forward in their health journey by being a “health detective” who uncovers the root causes of dysfunction happening in their body. She also educates and empowers them to make the right decisions for themselves. Her focus is seeing clients one on one, evaluating them through functional lab work and creating highly customizable health programs and protocols based on their personal results. Offering three- and six-month packages, Kristen guides her clients in creating sustainable change and a healthier way of living, ultimately leading to health. And it all builds by working on health from a foundational level. “I primarily focus on gut health and functional lab work within the gut,” she says. “I also build my protocols and recommendations with people based on diet, lifestyle and stress management. “I treat the whole person.” Kristen finds the current health-care system broken, noting that by the time one actually seeks help from the doctor, they have been sick for a very long time, as symptoms are the very last thing to show up. In today’s world, most doctor’s appointments allow minimal, if any time at all, for patients to truly explain to their medical provider what they—and their bodies—are experiencing. The

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result? The symptom is addressed, usually with a new prescription, while the underlying cause is yet to be explored, or discovered. The symptom may disappear, but the root cause of dysfunction remains and, over time, more ailments will present themselves, with doctors chasing the symptoms around the patient’s body as the root cause is never being addressed. For those in the nutritionist world, most still follow the standard American diet, whereas Kristen throws away the playbook and makes all of her practices highly customizable, taking into account that everyone has different gene expression, lifestyle and financial needs. “The status quo isn’t cutting it anymore, and it’s never been more obvious than it is today. We have to change the way we approach health in this country. We can no longer manage our sickness. We have to create health. I want people to understand that it is not normal to be sick. I want to teach them the things they didn’t learn about proper nutrition and educate them. I want to help them rebuild health from the inside out,” confirms Kristen. “What can we remove? What can we add in? Where can we go from here?” Food can be the most destructive thing or the most rewarding, according to Kristen. “Food is medicine; we know this to be true. It can be such a healing ritual.” She finds it truly rewarding to have the opportunity— and privilege—to guide her clients on their journey to health. “I am overwhelmed with joy when someone finally realizes what being healthy means; what it really feels like to be healthy; when the lightbulb turns on and they say, ‘Wow, I had no idea how bad I used to feel, and now that I feel good, it’s easy! It’s easy to feel this good!’” Many of Kristen’s new clients come to her as referrals. “The health is contagious,” she smiles. “My clients are excited to share the newfound health they are experiencing, sending their friends, families and colleagues my way.” For those wanting to restore their health through proper education paired with a positive partnership to help see you succeed not only today but for years to come, Kristen invites you to reach out to her today. “It is really so life-giving to bring someone back to health,” smiles Kristen. “They are getting their life back. They are empowered. They are informed. They are educated. They are making better decisions for themselves.” Give the gift of health to yourself or someone you love.

EPIC HEALTH KRISTEN BARRETT, FNTP, FDN-P 253.509.8952 KRISTEN@EPICHEALTHLLC.COM EPICHEALTHLLC.COM 42 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

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harles Baggarley made the long flight from the West Coast one last time in 2011 to join the scores of other Pearl Harbor survivors who gathered to mark the 60th anniversary of the Japanese attack on the American naval stronghold in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The Navy veteran relived the pain of that horrendous morning as he walked past the same checkpoints he had known as an active member of the U.S. Navy six decades earlier. His last visit to the base at Pearl Harbor confirmed his conviction of how close he had come to becoming one of the first casualties of the war on that sunny Sunday morning. The memories were amplified by his own mental images of his survival of a second early morning surprise attack weeks later while stationed at the Australian base in Darwin. The Japanese raid on the quiet seaside town began with a sound he was far too familiar with. The chief petty officer was enjoying the morning sun on the upper deck of the “Willie B” docked in quiet waters of Darwin Harbor when he heard the distinct drone from Japanese warplanes as the enemy approached the waterfront along the farthest northern point on the coast of Australia’s Northern Territory. The surprise attack by Japanese forces on the American fleet in Pearl Harbor had forced the U.S. Navy to regroup its resources to the small port town in Northern Australia. Darwin Harbor had become the primary base for Allied Forces to launch B-17 bomber raids to slow the enemy’s relentless march across the Philippines. “Willie B” was the nickname given to the USS William B. Preston (DD579), a small destroyer that served as the gathering place for American sailors and aviators stationed in Darwin. The Preston was smaller than

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most of the other destroyers in the fleet, and woefully unprepared for the aerial combat that had become commonplace in the Pacific with only 4-inch guns mounted fore and aft. The airmen stationed in Darwin Harbor, he recalled, lacked the basic training on how to load and operate the guns. The radio operator took it upon himself to train his flight mates as the enemy planes swooped overhead. The emphasis on the swift, powerful retaliation ordered by President Roosevelt against the Japanese had left the remainder of the 7th Fleet vulnerable to attack from enemy forces poised to invade the islands of Timor and Java to the north and northwest of the Australian port. When the enemy finally struck, the Japanese pilots launched their attacks from airfields in the Dutch East Indies. Many of the enemy pilots were from the same Japanese First Fleet that had led the attack on Pearl Harbor. The solo pilots who swooped over the Australian inlet on the morning of February 19, 1942, found 13 Australian and U.S. warships, 45 merchant vessels and a hospital ship anchored in Darwin Harbor. “Why now?” Baggarley thought to himself. “I survived ‘The Day That Will Live in Infamy.’ All this only to perish in an attack that would be nothing more than an asterisk in the journals of war?” The first wave of A6M Zero fighters, D3A dive bombers and B5N torpedo bombers swooped over the Australian coastline just before 10am. And just like in Hawaii, the surprise Japanese attack on the Australian outpost had left little time to organize any defense of the naval station. There was not enough ammunition nor an adequate number of personnel trained to operate the 18 anti-aircraft guns that had been hastily installed to protect the township.

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The air raid sirens in Darwin did not sound until the Zeroes had begun to strafe ships in the harbor. Eight ships were sunk in the first wave of the attack, including the American destroyer USS Peary and a seaplane tender, the USS William B. Preston. Japanese bombs decimated the wharf, the airfield, dozens of aircraft and the Army barracks. Well-placed bombs turned storage tanks filled with oil and aviation fuel into blazing infernos. The surprise attack that morning sank a total of 11 ships and damaged 25 others. American and Australian forces reported a total of 243 dead. Baggarley could feel the destroyer shudder each time a dive bomber made a direct hit to the hull of the Preston. He remembered how the crew desperately maneuvered the crippled ship to escape the confines of the harbor. “That’s when a crewman I recognized came in,” he remembered. “He was naked, an odd yellow color and not a hair on his body. His clothes had been burned off by the flash. His wide-open unseeing eyes were staring directly ahead.” The injured crewman begged for somebody to help him to sickbay. Once he was led away by another sailor, Baggarley went aft in a frantic attempt to help others but was turned away by the harsh words from a corpsman who screamed the warning, “Get back inside! We don’t want anyone else hurt.” The enemy bombers delivered a critical blow to the integrity of the USS Preston when the Mahan-class destroyer took a direct hit from a torpedo dropped by a Zero during the first wave of the attack. Bridge officers followed orders to take the destroyer east along the North Coast of Australia. Shifts were short that day. Baggarley was on watch that afternoon when he reported the approach of a single Japanese plane. The airman tracked the aircraft as it appeared on the horizon. He observed the solo pilot drop his torpedoes in the water about 100 yards behind the “Willie B.” The deadly projectiles, he wrote, missed their targets by a wide margin. Temporary repairs were made to the steering mechanism of the Preston before the sun set that evening. The ship stopped briefly for a solemn ceremony on the evening of February 19 to commit the bodies of 11 crew members to the sea. Ten of the dead were with the ship’s company. The other was an Australian naval officer from the Sydney suburb of Redfern.

“I SURVIVED ‘THE DAY THAT WILL LIVE IN INFAMY’.”

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Baggarley could feel the destroyer shudder each time a dive bomber made a direct hit to the hull of the Preston. He remembered how the crew desperately maneuvered the crippled ship to escape the confines of the harbor. “I have often thought that [the probability] that [if] I had been aft at the machine gun station that I would [have been one of the bodies] over the side that night in a blanket,” he reflected. “Or I could have been left in small bits in Darwin Harbor.” After struggling to overcome a score of mechanical challenges before finally reaching a friendly port, Baggarley and many of the wingless airmen disembarked onto the tranquil docks in the port of Perth in early March. The grounded crew made their way back to San Francisco aboard the former passenger liner George Washington, which had been painted grey and renamed the USS Mount Vernon. Back to Pearl In December of 1941, Baggarley was the radio operator with VP-22, a PBY flying boat reconnaissance squadron based on Ford Island in the middle of bustling Pearl Harbor. The PBY aircraft were twin engine amphibious aircraft used primarily by the Navy during World War II for maritime patrols, reach and rescue missions, and occasionally as bombers. His unit had returned from two weeks of live depth charge training on Midway Island late on Friday evening. Charles had returned to his barracks at 0330 with hopes for a good night’s sleep after a brief visit to some of his favorite “watering holes.” The 20-year-old Navy aviation mechanic was awakened just before 0800 by what he first thought were flyovers by some of the hotshot fighter pilots stationed on one of the carriers based at Pearl. He knew the planes overhead were not part of a drill when he saw the rising sun painted on the tail of each plane, and later learned the sounds were from the second wave of Japanese bombers to strike the base that morning. “We never thought the Japanese would attack,” he told a reporter several years later. “We never even talked about the possibility.” Baggarley witnessed the devastation as he stood in his bare feet on shards of broken glass with several of his shipmates at the front door of his barracks that had been blown out by the concussion of the repeated explosions. Utilizing the survival skills he discovered as a young man on the farm in the Goodnoe Hills community of Washington near the Columbia River, Charles sprinted across the open field toward the hangar where his plane had been parked. Instinctively, he dove for cover in the ditches that had been dug along the dirt path as Japanese planes raced over his head. Baggarley was the first member of the squadron crew to reach the hangar. He stood in silence as other members of the PBY squadron gathered around him, where the doors to the hangar had been, to survey the damage inflicted to the 13 aircraft. The only evidence of his own plane were two wingtips he found jutting out of the floor of what remained of the makeshift structure. There was no sign of his flight log or his beloved leather flight jacket.

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“All around us a war was going on,” he wrote. The radioman distinctly remembered that he was able to see the bottom of the battleship Oklahoma in the channel and what was left of the destroyer Shaw that had erupted into a ball of fire in dry dock across the harbor. Crew members mounted machine guns from the destroyed planes to use against waves of enemy planes. Civilians appeared on the base to push the broken fuselages of planes off the runway. “The harbor was full of ships in various stages of destruction. Every usable 30- and 50-caliber machine gun from our own planes were manned and firing at the dive bombers pulling out of their dives.”

“We so wanted that ship and its gallant crew to survive and win.” The sight of bombs splashing in the water all around the huge ship with every gun on its deck pointed skyward made Baggarley think about the events that “inspired Francis Scott Key to write the words for the Star Spangled Banner as he watched the bombardment of Fort MacHenry (McHenry).” “Oh, say does that Star-Spangled Banner yet wave o’er the land of the free and the home of the brave.” Baggarley concluded his written commentary about that horrific morning with the two-word phrase, “You bet!”

Stopping to catch his breath, Baggarley remembered he saw the battleship Nevada make its way down the channel to escape the “man-made hell.” Her 26-inch guns could hurl a one-ton projectile more than 20 miles but were useless against enemy fighters at close range.

When Baggarley’s thoughts returned to his own actions on the morning of December 7, 1941, he realized how much more tragic the day could have been if the Japanese had been successful in their repeated attempts to sink the Nevada in the channel, blocking the only escape route for the scores of ships and thousands of servicemen.

Charles looked across the harbor and watched helplessly as he silently prayed for the Nevada as she steamed toward open water at the end of the channel.

“The Nevada was not sunk in the channel,” he wrote. “She made it past Ford Island, and the crew beached her on the mainland of Oahu.

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HIS WAS A LIFE

WELL LIVED “She survived to fight again.” After bearing witness to events that would be known as “The Day That Would Live in Infamy,” Baggarley spent the night in a hangar on the far side of the base. He was recruited the next morning to join the crew of a Sikorsky amphibious reconnaissance patrol. The hulking aircraft had been designed without any armament, so each member of the crew was given a rifle with two bandoliers of ammunition before being sent out to scout hundreds of miles of open ocean for any Japanese ships in the waters east of Hawaii. “They flew the patrols but saw no Japanese.” The quiet sailor from farmlands of Washington took in a deep breath when he heard the pilot’s subdued words: “Nothing here. Back to Pearl.” The words of the pilot echoed in his head, even more poignant after he had survived a second brutal attack weeks later while stationed at the Allied base in Darwin. In his later years, Charles realized the lessons he learned protecting the skies over the Pacific from the Bering Strait to the tiny islands near New Caledonia served him well during a lifetime of taking on challenges, overcoming obstacles and walking away to fly another day. His was a life well lived. Dan Aznoff is a freelance writer based in Mukilteo, Washington. This article was taken from the content of his book “Soaring With Eagles” based on the numerous notebooks compiled by Mr. Baggarley over the course of his life. Copies of the book will be available through Amazon or at da@dajournalist.com.“

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WELCOME THE NEW YEAR

IN COMFORT AND SAFETY CELEBRATE THE ARRIVAL OF 2021 AT HOME By Jillian Chandler

s events are once again put on hold and large gatherings are discouraged, it’s time again to think outside of the box and explore new ways to bring in the new year—at home!

Just because you won’t be leaving the house to attend a glamorous New Year’s Eve party doesn’t mean you can’t get dressed up for the occasion. Get in the spirit by donning your best attire—men, women and children—to help set up the festive occasion. It will certainly help put the whole family in a wonderful mood and ready to celebrate! Be sure to purchase those fun and sparkly party favors to brighten the mood, from hats and beads to party blowers and noisemakers. Balloons and streamers will help add to the mood, as well as lively music to set the mood. Opt for your family’s—or roommates’—favorite finger foods and beverages, and make a spread on the countertop, dining room table or coffee table.

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Have a dance party, play board games. When’s the last time you belted out some karaoke? Have everyone in the house write down some of their hopes for 2021, create a vision board, or a scrapbook, so you will always remember this year’s unique celebration. If you’re looking to have a more relaxed night, have a pajama party and stream your favorite movies over popcorn and movie treats. If you have young children, while Mom and Dad enjoy the celebratory glass of champagne, create a hot chocolate station with marshmallows, chocolates, candy canes and more. It gives excitement to something ordinary. No matter how you choose to welcome 2021, as long as you spend it safely with the ones you love, it’s sure to be memorable.

DEC

0103 12 FOR EVENTS, VISIT 253LIFESTYLEMAGAZINE.COM.

/ December

ENTERTAINMENT

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ZOOLIGHTS Tacomaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s annual holiday light extravaganza returns with new dazzling displays and safety protocols. Step back into the Zoolights tradition you know and love: your Zoo, transformed into a colorful winter wonderland with more than 700,000 LED lights. See magical 3D animal light displays and feel the holiday joy. A very limited number of timed online tickets are now available at PDZA.org/Zoolights. Aquariums, goat area and the carousel will be closed during Zoolights to keep Online timed tickets, which are priced $5.50 to $15, are required for Zoolights. Children 2 and younger are free. And parking is free.

SANTA RUNS TACOMA 5K Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the most RUNderful time of the year, as we see the return of Santa Runs Tacoma 5k. Held at Cheney Stadium on Saturday, December 12, the organization is excited to announce that under the guidance of the Washington state COVID-19 reopening requirements for Phase 2 for outdoor races, they will be offering a limited in-person Santa Runs Tacoma 5k. Participants will receive an embroidered beanie, large commemorative coffee mug and finisher ribbon. The race kicks off at 8am with staggered start times. In the event the race is canceled, the event will be virtual. For up-to-date information, visit SantaRunsTacoma.com.

LIGHTED BOAT PARADE The Tacoma Yacht Club is excited to announce that the Lighted Boat Parade, which they host and organize each year for the community to enjoy, is a go for 2020! On Saturday, December 19, beautifully and brightly decorated and festive boats will set sail from the Tacoma Yacht Club around 5:30pm, parading along the Ruston Waterfront, safely and from a distance. The community is invited to watch the bright and lively parade of boats, which will be concluding at 8pm. This event is sure to brighten the spirits of those of all ages.

* Please note, as of press time, these events were still scheduled to take place as planned. Due to the current health crisis, there is the possibility that event schedules may change or events canceled completely. Be sure to visit event websites to stay up to date with current information.

SUBMIT YOUR EVENTS ONLINE! Want your event to appear on the largest event site in the Northwest? Submit your events to us online at Events.DirectoryNorthwest.com 24/7, 365 days a year! 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 57

Eat & Drink

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PEPPERMINT CHIP ICE CREAM Recipe Courtesy of Tina VanDenHeuvel You can follow Tina @madebetterforyou on Instagram

INGREDIENTS: 5 eggs, whipped 1 13.5 oz. can heavy coconut cream 4 cups heavy whipping cream 1/2 cup Swerve confectioners sweetener 3 tbsp. peppermint extract (I like Cook’s brand) 1 tbsp. vanilla extract 1/4 tsp. Himalayan salt 1 2.8 oz. dark chocolate bar, shaved (I like Lily’s brand)

METHOD: • In a large bowl, whisk eggs until scrambled. Mix in coconut cream, heavy whipping cream, sweetener, peppermint, vanilla and salt. • Using a potato peeler, shave the chocolate bar into pieces. Add to the ice cream mixture. • Pour mixture into an ice cream maker and freeze according to the manufacturer’s directions. When the ice cream is firm, place in a freezer-safe container and chill for 3 to 4 hours before serving.

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Travel Village Shines Bright in Leavenworth, Washington S T U N N I N G L I G H T D I S P L AY W I L L G O O N BY MARGUERITE CLEVELAND

he holidays will be different this year due to the continuing coronavirus pandemic. And although the annual Christmas Lighting Festival is canceled for 2020, you will still be able to enjoy the stunning light display that the Bavarian Village of Leavenworth is known for. The village has been described as living in a snow globe, and it really does have that quaint old-fashioned feel to it.

“In order to maximize safety for both our residents and our visitors to Leavenworth, the Leavenworth Chamber Board of Directors are taking a series of carefully considered measures that will decrease density in the downtown core while still delivering the magical holiday experience that only Leavenworth can provide,” said Troy Campbell, executive director of the Leavenworth Chamber of Commerce. “Our hope is that this will encourage visitors to enjoy Leavenworth and the Village of Lights display throughout the week and the season, and online, as opposed to drawing large groups together around festival events on those few weekends (in December),” he said. Where to Stay The Icicle Village Resort, a short walking distance from downtown Leavenworth, has a variety of accommodations perfect for any size family. Stunning views of the Cascade Mountains from

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Plan to spend some time after dark exploring the light display in the

village. More than a half a million Christmas Lights transform the town each year.

the resort and its German architecture really make it feel like a getaway. Their pet-friendly rooms are not carpeted, which makes for a more sanitary stay when traveling with your furry friends. Dog bowls are provided as well as a toy, a treat and waste bags. Breakfast is included in the room rate. On site is the Alpine Spa which has COVID-19 procedures in place to ensure a safe visit. During the month of December, children will love the “Elf on the Shelf ” event. Five elves are located on the resort grounds. Take an “Elfie” with all five and receive a treat from the Front Desk.

The village has some great choices for dessert, with bakeries serving up German specialties or Christmas Stollen. Schocolat is worth a stop to try the delectable handmade chocolates, made fresh daily in the classic European style. Made with fresh ingredients and in small batches, you can really taste the difference. The smell of cinnamon-infused waffle cones baking draws you into the WhistlePunk Ice Cream Shop. The ice cream and waffle cones are all made from scratch using all-natural ingredients. The ice cream is not super sweet, so you really taste the add-in flavors. Try their hot chocolate float for a winter treat.

Where to Eat

What to Do

There are a variety of restaurants to pick from while in Leavenworth, but at this time due to health and safety protocols, seating is extremely limited—so plan to eat where you can make a reservation. With the Bavarian theme of the village, there are many opportunities to enjoy German food. Locally made products like cheese, sausages and house-made cured meats abound. Try the locally brewed beer, the array of wineries and a craft distillery.

To get in the holiday spirit, plan a visit to the Leavenworth Reindeer Farm, a family owned business. Make a reservation online to see these amazing creatures. COVID-19 procedures limit the group sizes for each tour, and there is space for social distancing. This year, Santa will remain in his sleigh with a specially designed clear COVID-19 mask. Photos may be taken standing next to the sleigh to keep Santa and his visitors safe. The gift shop is super cute, with a variety of fun reindeer-themed gifts.

The Yodelin Broth Company offers fresh healthy food while causing no unnecessary harm to the environment. Choose from noodle bowls with savory broth, Pacific Northwest rice bowls, as well as a good selection of sandwiches. For a less crowded experience, JJ Hills Fresh Grill, located in the Icicle Village Resort, serves up Bavarian favorites with a Northwest twist. Seasonal food and drink specials, as well as holiday meals, are available. The outdoor balcony has views of Tumwater Canyon, Icicle Ridge and Leavenworth.

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The Leavenworth Winter Sports Club has lots of opportunities to enjoy the outdoors this winter. The alpine ski area has two rope tows and a ski jumping hill. Explore the 26 kilometers of Nordic Trails. The tubing hill is super popular. Bring sleds if you have them, as there are lots of spots in and around town to get that adrenaline rush roaring down a hill. Stevens Pass Ski Resort and Mission Ridge Ski Resort are both driving distance from Leavenworth.

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For a unique experience, book a snowshoe tour of the Leavenworth National Fish Hatcheryâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;which was the largest in the world when it was built in 1940. The Grand Coulee Dam completely blocked fish passage to the upper Columbia River when it was built; the hatcheryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s mission was to produce salmon to make up for that impact. The snowshoe tours are offered through the Wenatchee River Institute for $12 and include snowshoes. Tours meet at the hatchery. You must call ahead to book your spot at 509.548.0181.

Plan to spend some time after dark exploring the light display in the village. More than a half a million Christmas Lights transform the town each year. Front Street (the main street in downtown Leavenworth) is closed to vehicle traffic for more social distancing. Shops will be open but limited to 30 percent capacity, so you may have to wait to enter. Try to support the local businesses during your stay, as many rely heavily on tourism for their livelihood. Hours vary with shops closing between 5 and 8pm.

There is nothing quite like a festive sleigh ride through the snow. Leavenworth Sleigh Rides is only offering private sleigh rides this season, with several different sizes of sleighs seating up to six, 12 or 16 guests. Each ride, which lasts about 50 minutes, takes its guests through scenic open meadows and forests to a barn stop for hot cider around a roaring fire. For safety reasons, you will want to bring your own blankets. No pets are allowed on the sleigh ride.

The holiday season in Leavenworth will still be festive despite cancellations and changes. When planning your visit, traffic the first three Saturdays of December will be very heavy, even with the Lighting Festival canceled. If possible, visit during the week, when you will experience less people than on the weekends. Before your trip, verify hours and reservations for activities, lodging and restaurants. With the ongoing pandemic, everything is subject to change if cases begin increasing. Weather is unpredictable this time of year, so be prepared with warm clothes and carry chains for your car. 253 LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE 65

C assie R iendeau WASHINGTON DIRECTOR

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