November/December 2022 253 Lifestyle Magazine

Building Better Solutions for Clients

With 30 years experience serving families in Gig Harbor and Pierce County, Felicia Soleil provides more constructive alternatives to dissolving a marriage outside of a courtroom. In addition to her family law practice, she also provides mediation services, offering legal support, education and case management - from simple to complex - for separation and divorce, parenting plans, child support and prenuptial agreements.

Facing a divorce or separation? Felicia focuses on reducing and resolving conflict, helping you transition by moving on, not just moving out.

Attorney

MARKETING

WASHINGTON

EDITORIAL

publisher picks

Meet Steve Russo, Publisher Executive Director steve@like-media.com

The Most Wonderful Time of the Year

Where has the year gone? Maybe it’s just me, but it seems like 2022 came in with a bang and continued full speed ahead. And now, here we are, in the midst of the holiday season, when life slows down a bit yet there is so much to do to prepare for family gatherings and the end of the year.

This has been a year of natural disasters, of war, of division, of inflation, yet here we are, still standing, many of us stronger than we were before. We continue to look to the future, working hard, loving and providing for our families, with the goal of doing our part to create a blessed life for our children—and a better world for generations to come.

We all have purpose, and we must live that purpose, despite what is going on around us. We must continue to seek good and do our part to spread that good throughout our neighborhoods, our schools, our communities, and our nation.

The holiday season is a time to give thanks, as we have so much to be thankful for: the roof over our heads, the food on the table,

clothes to keep us warm, a vehicle to transport us to and from work. Opportunities abound this time of year to give back to those less fortunate as well. If you can’t afford to give monetarily to a local charity or organization, you can donate gently used clothing and jackets to women’s and children’s shelters; volunteer your time at a food pantry/bank; go through the kids’ toys and stuffed animals, clean them up, and find a way to get them to those children who are less fortunate.

Give and you shall receive. Blessings come to those who assist others—in whatever way that may be.

May we focus on what is important in life as the year comes to an end and welcome 2023 with faith, love and hope.

food & entertainment

OF

HOME FOR THE HOLIDAYS

Decorating for the season

by RACHEL KELLY

The holiday season has our eyes turned inward toward home. More time spent at home around loved ones has us pulling out the throw blankets and piling on the pillows. This season’s decor has us creating spaces for more time spent doing indoor activities, making room for holiday gatherings and fostering a feeling of festivity. It’s important that your space reflects what’s most comfortable for you. It’s important that the place you wind down and spend the most time mirrors your individual feelings, memories and style. Decorating for the season means something different for everyone, however, there are common priorities that just might spur your holiday humbug into action.

During the holidays, especially during the winter solstice, it can get pretty dark. One of the themes of the holidays is to bring light into dark spaces. Lighting has a way of creating mood. The same is true in our homes during the holidays. Switching out light fixtures, adding

new lamp shades or hanging twinkle lights from dark corners makes for an instant cozy space. Plus, it’s festive! Bright lights are only necessary while reading, otherwise soft light (such as what comes from a fireplace) creates comfort. Since electricity is a fairly recent invention, it makes sense that our bodies would prepare for sleep and relax more in less invasive bright light. Candles are another inexpensive addition to any space during short winter days. Hanging tea light fixtures along stairwells and hallways makes the switching on and off of lights unnecessary, which is especially convenient if half the house has already gone to bed. In some cultures, it’s customary to place candles in window sills to share light with neighbors during the holiday season. This tradition doubles as a way to bring comfort in the home as well.

More time spent indoors means more activity, not less, happens in your home. Wintertime is a time for rest and rejuvenation. Our space can assist us in time well spent. It’s not the time for big renovations, but there

MAKE IT YOUR OWN: This season’s decor has us creating spaces for more time spent doing indoor activities, making room for holiday gatherings and fostering a feeling of festivity. It’s important that your space reflects what’s most comfortable for you.

Wintertime is a time for rest and rejuvenation.

are simple strategies that everyone can use to open up and declutter our space for the holidays. If you have kids, this might be a good time to build each of them their own creative corners in an out-of-the-way favorite spot, complete with its own light source, pillows, and organization that works for their needs. Actually, this might be a good time for you to build your own creative space, filled with things that both bring you joy and allow you to do whatever makes you feel most constructive. Everyone needs a hub—a space that’s just yours. Otherwise, everyone’s indoor activities go everywhere, and there doesn’t seem to be a place for anything. Encouraging each person in the household to create their own space brings ownership. For common spaces, pay attention to how you and others naturally do things. If there’s a place where people seem to throw their towels, that’s where the laundry hamper goes. If a favorite family activity is movie night, then maybe buy some extra oversized pillows that tuck away in a basket at the side of the couch. This holiday season, bring ownership to your home by tailoring your space to fit your needs.

Usually when it comes to the holiday color scheme, don’t choose anything that doesn’t already work. Nobody needs a complete holiday revamp every year. If you’ve chosen pretty basic wall colors, and generally your regular aesthetic is quiet, solid colors, there is lots of room for color during the holidays. Colored lights to wrap up the stairwell, silver tinsel hung from the windowsill, red bows over the doorways. Your tree might just be a jumble of color, filled with

ornaments that carry with them memories that grow every year. However, if in your house you already have a lot of color, you might want to tone down the holiday decor with simple glass tree ornaments and white twinkle lights. Another simple decoration is hanging dried flowers from the tops of the windows, this freshens the air as well as looks festive. Live flowers that will last through the holidays, or even through the entire winter season, is always a welcome look set in direct contrast to the dreary outdoors. This season, choose a color scheme that brings life to your indoors.

As you pull out the traditional decorations this holiday season, don’t be afraid to get rid of whatever doesn’t bring you joy. Sometimes those old holiday decorations can really pile up and gather dust. There’s a reason that we tuck those decorations away most of the year. As you cultivate your space, think of what works for you. Create and open up your space for the things you like doing during the holidays, whether it’s holding holiday parties or crashing on the couch for a good holiday movie. Create a space for others, but also don’t be afraid to prioritize something for yourself that helps you to feel productive or cozy. It’s your home, and it reflects you and those you love.

This holiday season, decorate in such a way that reflects your fondest memories and encourages the activities that cultivate joy.

As you pull out the traditional decorations this holiday season, don’t be afraid to get rid of whatever doesn’t bring you joy.

There are over 36,840 residents in Pierce County who experience hearing difficulties. This means there’s a large number within our population who are suffering from an ability to communicate effectively with their environment. Without reliable accommodations, many of these people struggle with accessing basic community resources. From medical care to groceries, from getting a job to crossing the street, hearing is a communication barrier that isolates those who communicate differently. Especially with many accommodations moving away from face-to-face interaction to phones and online, so many with hearing difficulties are divorced from community, connection and, consequently, many basic resources. It’s no surprise then that 50 percent of those experiencing significant hearing loss are unemployed and at risk for severe poverty. This is not because there is not a desire to work, to connect, and to be involved but because so many workplaces and common places are inaccessible.

To bridge this gap in communication, the Hearing Speech & Deaf Center was established 86 years ago, with its first office in Seattle. The Seattle office served the greater area, including the South Sound, but it eventually became necessary to expand. The Tacoma office opened in 2006, with its purpose being to service the deaf and hard-of-hearing population with these gaps in communication. The center is aware that people with hearing or speech differences face daily systemic barriers that isolate them from family, community and basic services.

“Our mission is to foster accessible communities through communication, advocacy and education. We envision an inclusive and accessible world where everyone is understood and respected,” says Carol Brown, the director of development at the Tacoma Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center. The Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center envisions a world where many different forms of communication are

KELLY

accepted without stigma, connections are made, and a community as a whole thrives as a result of its diversity.

To practically achieve this goal, the Tacoma Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center utilizes client advocates who are notably deaf, hard of hearing, and hearing. Client advocates meet with or go to their deaf or hard-of-hearing clients to listen to their individual needs. They speak ASL and English and are powerful role models for our community. A powerful tool of client advocates is their purpose to empower their clients through self-advocacy. In one such example: “A client recently needed a fire alarm for deaf people,” says Brown, “and our advocate trained them in selfadvocacy rather than intervening on her behalf. The client reported that her success at securing the needed accommodations had made her feel confident to resolve future issues.”

Self-advocacy doesn’t just address one need; it enables clients to experience success in communicating and navigating the hearing world around them with confidence. Self-advocacy allows for clients to feel the support and acceptance of their greater community, a community that can

“

Our mission is to foster accessible communities through communication , advocacy and education . We envision an inclusive and accessible world where everyone is understood and respected . ”

WHEN BARRIERS ARE OVERCOME AND BRIDGES ARE BUILT, COMMUNITY, COMMUNICATION, RECOGNITION, JOY, UNDERSTANDING AND TOLERANCE

THRIVE.

often be unknowingly ignorant of how they can communicate successfully to their neighbors.

Resources do not stop and end at teaching selfadvocacy, but client advocates also work to remove communication barriers that can prevent their clients from getting a job, filing their taxes, accessing community resources and much more. Services are available regardless of race, age, color, or communication method. When barriers are overcome and bridges are built, community, communication, recognition, joy, understanding and tolerance thrive. A whole new world erupts between two people who have found common ground from which to grow. The result of overcoming barriers is a joy. It’s no wonder then that when Brown was asked what she loves most about her work, her reply was, “Overcoming barriers is what we love!”

The Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center itself also provides audiology and hearing aid appointments, speech and communication services, interpretation, deaf and hard-of-hearing services, and early childhood education. The speech and communication services provided work with individuals struggling with language disorders, processing disorders, motor speech disorders, swallowing disorders, etc. that limit communication and are often associated with auditory processing. Speech pathologists connect with clients to provide these services. However, their services are often not funded by Medicaid or insurances, and so the Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center relies on local donations to provide this much deserved and needed intervention. To aid in this, HSDC created the Speech Community Cares Fund, which local pathologists, businesses and individuals can donate, with the assurance that 100 percent of the funds go to providing care.

HSDC also provides services in both a personal and professional capacity. Deaf and hard-of-hearing services, services that aid deaf and hardof-hearing clients in accessing resources such as jobs, medical care and community support, are free to those who need them. Local businesses, agencies and schools can also contact HSDC for resources on local education, helping their clients and employees access resources, accessibility training and employment. This goes hand in hand with their early learning education resources, which instead of focusing on adults and businesses in need of hearing resources focuses on preschool-age children. Their early learning resources include services aimed at equipping parents with deaf or deaf-blind children living in King, Pierce and Snohomish counties. Specialists travel to homes to equip families with the unique resources that they need for their children. HSDC also supports the bilingual Rosen Family Preschool, where both ASL and English are spoken for both hearing and deaf students.

The Hearing, Speech and Deaf Center naturally partners with its community to reach out and overcome the barriers that exist in our community. One such partner is DHHS, who often refers individuals to the Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center. DHHS also conducts training on communication workshops for organizations to better serve deaf clients and customers. In these ways, DHHS is a wonderful resource. Our community here in the South Sound is large enough to need services but still small enough to be reached in the way that we all communicate, specifically through social media, using FaceTime, and in person. The Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center utilizes these resources through their online presence to foster community engagement.

For more information on how you can help our community have more accessible and inclusive communication, please see the Hearing, Speech & Deaf Center at HSDC.org.

ACHIEVE THIS LEVEL OF CONSISTENCY, ESPECIALLY IN AN INCREASINGLY COMPETITIVE CRAFT DISTILLING INDUSTRY WITH ALMOST 3,000 DISTILLERS ACROSS THE U.S., REPEATABLE SUCCESS MUST START WITH THE PRODUCTS AND HOW THEY ARE MADE. WE ARE STICKLERS FOR QUALITY AND CREATIVITY.”

Conversations around campfires are often intriguing with talks about dreams and the future. Justin and Jennifer Stiefel’s campfire talks resulted in the founding of Heritage Distilling Company, Inc. in 2011. Since the early days of their first distillery in Gig Harbor, they have grown substantially and are now the largest independently owned craft distillery in the Pacific Northwest, with Justin serving as CEO and Jennifer as president. Unique flavors such as Cocoa Bomb Whiskey put them on the map.

Q. The Heritage Distilling Spirits Advent Calendar is a popular gift each holiday. Can you share with our readers what goes into creating all those tiny bottles?

A. We were proud to be the first craft distiller in the U.S. to create and launch the Spirits Advent Calendar in 2015. This year we are bottling 120,000 50-milliliter bottles for the Spirits Advent Calendar. Production started in July and continues through the end of September to put together all 5,000 calendars that will be sold in HDC Tasting Rooms and some select PNW retailers. It features Cocoa Bomb (our new chocolate whiskey), some of our most popular flavored vodkas and some of our premium whiskeys—there’s a little bit of something for everyone. We get great responses from customers who use the Spirits Advent Calendars as party favors, hostess gifts and sampler boxes. This year’s version will likely be sold out by the end of November.

Q. How did your recent partnership with Danielle Kartes of Rustic Joyful Foods to produce Florescence Vodka come about?

A. We’ve been working with Danielle on content, photos and recipe development for the past five years. Because innovation is such an important pillar of HDC’s business, we are always looking for opportunities to introduce new products to our loyal fans. Danielle’s positive and gritty work ethic, combined with our reputation for award-winning spirits, brought the idea from an initial concept in 2020 to being in the bottle now in 2022. Florescence Vodka is a grapefruit and pomelo vodka meant to be used in cocktails or straight over ice. It tastes like endless summer in a bottle, and we are getting rave reviews for this product from all corners of the spirits world.

Q. Can you share how Heritage Distilling worked with the Chehalis Tribe to create the new tribal distilling opportunity for Tribes?

A. We were approached by the Chehalis Tribe in 2015 to assist with an economic development project for their property on I-5. As it developed, the notion of adding a distillery came to the forefront. When the Tribe started construction, the federal government told them

they could not build the distillery due to an old Andrew Jackson-era law from 1834 prohibiting distilleries in Indian country. Our CEO, Justin Stiefel, joined the Tribal chairman and Tribal leadership to lobby Congress to repeal that statute. In late 2018, the bill passed Congress and became law. Construction then began and it is now open for customers to enjoy brewery and distillery tap rooms and high-quality food from the restaurant. This first location is the basis of our next phase of business—working with Tribes across the country on this model. We expect to have news to share on this in early 2023.

Q. How did you become the most awarded craft distillery in North America nine years in a row?

A. To achieve this level of consistency, especially in an increasingly competitive craft distilling industry with almost 3,000 distillers across the U.S., repeatable success must start with the products and how they are made.

We are sticklers for quality and creativity. Our results rely on a combination of raw ingredient selection, production process control and finished blending techniques. Of course, we must sample along the way to ensure quality control. All parts of the enterprise must be responsible for their roles. We call this the “ownership culture.” As a small company,

we decided to share company stock with our employees so that they could become “owners.” But being an “owner” also means “owning” the responsibility for your role. This has instilled a sense of purpose and pride within all levels of the organization, and the results speak for themselves. Evidently, the judges agree—nine years in a row.

Q. Heritage Distilling is celebrating its 10th anniversary. Do you have any reflections on your first decade in business?

A. You don’t survive for 10 years as a company without customers, partners and employees, so first we must say, “THANK YOU” to all of them. As proud as we are of our first 10 years of success, awards and recognition, we are equally excited about the next 10 years. To kick off this next decade, we have a new line of super premium whiskeys we’ve been aging for four to eight years that we will release under a new label as single barrel expressions: STIEFEL’S SELECT. All the while we’ve been running the public business of Heritage Distilling, we’ve been secretly distilling and aging a whole new lineup of whiskeys that we’ve never talked about. They are ready, and the responses from private showings with whiskey experts so far have been amazing. We are excited to share them with the world as we launch this next decade of growth.

He althy

Holiday Balance

by R ACHEL K ELLY

There’s a time for everything, even during the holidays. There’s a time for family, and there’s time for celebration. There’s time to decorate, time to get out the door, and a time for those holiday traditions. There’s even time for some of that spiced eggnog that is only available seasonally. But whether you will truly have time or not comes down to whether you are able to keep a healthy balance this holiday season. But with the holidays comes the pull of activities that are sure to yank you right off track to enjoying the season. There can be so many expectations during the holidays; expectations from others but also expectations that we put on ourselves. It can take a lot of effort to keep one’s priorities straight. This year, prioritize yourself, your family, your work and the holidays in a way that makes the most sense for the things that matter most.

Prioritizing yourself is often the hardest to accomplish during the holiday season. However, for many of us, “me time” should be the first thing we do. Not because you should be selfish, as if that’s even possible. Self-care doesn’t mean that we have to sacrifice making sure others are cared for. It’s just a fact that if you don’t fill your cup, you won’t have anything to give. Everything suffers when we don’t prioritize self-care, especially in situations where you may be maxed out. Sometimes prioritizing yourself might mean waking up 15 minutes early every day to enjoy some extra silence over your favorite hot morning beverage. Sometimes it might mean organizing your day in such a way that you can have an extra 10 minutes at the end of every day to just be still. Sometimes it might mean going on a short walk or making a point to take a few hours once a week doing something you love. Little by little, consistent self-care chips away at the stress that has a tendency to build up. Prioritizing yourself might mean that someone else around you might need to adjust their routine, such as going to bed earlier or making sure they’re around during the time that you’ve hedged out for yourself. Sometimes they might be upset about this (kids, this is you), but it’s important that everyone in every household shares the load of responsibility, so that each individual is cared for—including you. This might take some conversation, and it might take some compromise, but it’s worth it.

Prioritizing your family is probably next on most people’s list. Or maybe prioritizing those that you consider to be like family. There are just some activities and some plans that can’t be rescheduled this time of year, and missing them would take away from joy. It can be easy to under-appreciate those people closest to us, because we feel secure that they will always be there. Regardless, every relationship needs attention. Doing things this holiday season with those loved ones should be top on the list, as they are sure to bring the most joy this time of year. Usually, however, there is more than one loved one. Many people find themselves split between many different familial expectations from both sides. These activities can sometimes clash, so communication is key here. It’s no fun if you spread yourself too thin. Be sure to communicate what you can and can’t do for your own sanity, and let the rest be what it will be.

Prioritizing work where it should be during the holidays often means that not everything is done to perfection. However, it will be done the best you possibly can do, and that will have to be enough. Making money is all well and good, but it means very little if you have no time to use it. Especially during the time of year where money and time can be used so well. Do what needs to be done, hit your deadlines and demolish that project while you’re working. But when you’re off, you’re off. If you truly can’t get away, turn everything off. Give yourself a staycation, at home, and unplug from whatever pulls you where you don’t need to be. This might mean that you might have to cut back in some ways, but it doesn’t mean that you can’t enjoy the fruits of your labor. There is a reason that work is not prioritized at the top of the list; it’s just not the most important thing.

The holidays are a time where we remember and focus on what is most important. The weather turns, the holidays begin, and we invest in all the people, activities and things that get us through the darker/colder parts of the year. There’s a reason that the holidays are all stacked on top of each other. This time of year, we all feel the need for a pick-me-up. The holidays are supposed to be a time of rest, encouragement and celebration. That is, if we can keep a healthy balance throughout. Keeping our priorities straight will help us to drop whatever doesn’t fit, so that we’re capable of making decisions between all the different things that pull at us this season. Being still and simply being thankful is a much-underrated skill.

This year, let’s harbor thankfulness by giving ourselves the time and the space to appreciate what makes the holidays so special.

The holidays are supposed to be a time of rest, encouragement and celebration.

FREE COURSE

UDEMY

ENERGY

SUFANI GARZA

Internationally Accredited Spiritual Teacher & Soul Care

Sufani is a spiritual teacher, healer & entrepreneur with over 20 years of experience.

Join me weekly on Wednesdays for a Free Coaching Message @Life After 50 With Sufi (Sufani’s World)

"I have learned to rinse off bad energy and take my power back. Thank you so much for your

YOU? WHY WEREN’T YOU

Now is the time to fulfill your purpose

by SUFANI GARZA INTERNATIONALLY ACCREDITED SPIRITUAL TEACHER AND SOUL CARE PROVIDER

We all seek our purpose in life, and we want to make sure we are doing the right thing to fulfill our purpose, yet we find ourselves deeply confused in life at times as to what that purpose is, and how to go about it. We get lost in life and begin defining our lives around what we see others doing and listening to those selling us the “right” way to do things. I don’t know about you, but I am tired of being sold a one-wayfits-all message. My messages are always about sharing, and then telling everyone to make it their own. Listen to me, yes; be me, no! You are divinely beautiful. I want to see it, not my own reflection! I have done my job if I help you see yourself!

There is an old shaman story, used to bring about wise contemplation about the direction you are taking in life. The shaman asks you, “[Your name here], why weren’t you [your name here]?” For instance, “Sufi, why weren’t you Sufi?” When so much time in our life is spent following the leader and not focusing on simply knowing ourselves and what makes us happy, the question is a valid one. Why are you covering up something that is so unique and beautiful, by trying to be everything else but you? There are many reasons, many we come

by honestly, many we were taught. We spend most of our adult life trying to untrain the confusion from our domestication that told us to be other than who we are, because that was good. We know better now!

What is most important is to begin, right here and now, to have some silence and wise contemplation and think about who we are and who we want to be, to understand the seduction happening through social media and digital media to lead us away from just being content with ourselves.

I separate from social media every weekend for this purpose. To check in with myself, to hear my breath, my thoughts, to read and contemplate, to spend time and love my family. This weekend, or some other appropriate time, perhaps spend some time away from social media if you are inclined, and focus your soul on asking yourself these questions:

1. What am I here to do?

2. Am I living up to it?

3. What steps will I begin today to move toward my truest self with love?

4. What percent of time is [your name here], being [your name here]?

MIGRAINES, HEADACHES

TMJ PAIN?

SUMNER, WASHINGTON pinpoint

Med spa offers clients experience and confidence

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

in January 2022 by Jessica Armitage and Courtney Gray-Eaden, Áme Aesthetic Institute in Sumner provides a purposeful array of services to help with positive aging along with medical-grade skin care, IV hydration and vitamin therapy.

Opened

With nearly two decades of experience each, both Jessica and Courtney were inspired to pursue a career in the aesthetic field many years ago—but for very different reasons. For Courtney, she initially had plans to become a makeup artist. “I soon realized that I should really know my canvas,” she recalls. “I immediately fell in love with what laser and medical-grade treatments could do for the skin.” For Jessica, it was much more personal. “I had really bad skin problems as a late teen and early college student. I got the runaround from my dermatologist and primary care provider. They didn’t care about me or my skin; they just wanted to sell me their ‘stuff,’” she remembers. “The only thing that helped was laser treatments, and for the first time, I could look in the mirror with confidence and not cry. The minute I found out nurses could do laser treatment, I decided to go to nursing school.”

Today, they are bringing that inspiration, dedication and experience to their patients at Áme, meaning “soul.” “Courtney and I love making people feel better about the skin they are in—and love watching people grow in confidence. It helps us feel good to our soul, knowing you (the patient) feel good to yours,” smiles Jessica.

At Áme Aesthetic Institute, they provide a wide range of services: laser hair removal, IPL (for treatment of sun damage or redness), fractional skin rejuvenation, microneedling, dermaplaning, chemical peels, microdermabrasion, Botox, Dermal Fillers, Threads, PRF, vitamin injections, IV therapy and more. “One of the most popular skin treatments we offer is DiamondGlow. You can also add dermaplaning to it for that next level glow,” says Courtney.

Having been in the industry for almost 19 years, and having been a clinical trainer, Courtney ensures that her patients are educated on the treatments they are receiving and even the treatments available to them (even if not offered at Áme). “They will

‘BeYOUtifully’ You!

an

affirms.

“We are a community over competition mindset business that wants the best for each person,” adds Jessica. “We believe you have a choice. We are grateful when people choose us and Áme, but we also know there are other great practices with other great treatments— and ultimately want what is best for all.”

As the industry is ever evolving, both Jessica and Courtney find it imperative to continue their education in the field. “We have been around to see many things—we have come along in aesthetics in general and as providers,” shares Jessica. “We are not the first to jump on the ‘newest’ bandwagon or train but instead make thoughtful choices based off deliverable results and outcomes.”

Jessica’s philosophy regarding aesthetics is “BeYOUtifully” you. “So many patients come in and say, ‘Make me beautiful,’” she says. “Well, no, you’re already beautiful! Treatments with us are just icing on the cake, for preventative maintenance, positive aging, and to help you feel your best in your skin. And less is more—we don’t want to change your look, just maintain the great parts of you.”

Courtney adds to this sentiment: “Be your own filter. I always educate my patients that any treatment received should provide a radiance that is you. I feel like the biggest compliment should be, ‘Oh my gosh, you look amazing!’ Not, ‘Oh my gosh, what did you do?’ I feel like the latter comment is when we go a little too far, where we start to not look like ourselves. Less is more.”

When it comes to what they find most rewarding about the work they do, Courtney says it’s when she sees a patient’s overall confidence level rise when their skin is healthy. Jessica goes on to say it’s helping people find their confidence and feel better about the skin they are in. “I love seeing the demeanor of our patients with a confidence boost that comes from the inside based on the services they receive with us.”

Courtney has worked in the Puyallup/Sumner area for the past eight years, while Jessica has lived in the 253 area for more than a decade. “We feel so grateful and blessed to do what we do, with a great team/family, and do it in an amazing community,” the two share. “We are so thankful for all the grace, favor, support and love. We are so happy to be here and be a part of the community— from business to helping out with school functions, food drives, auctions, events, and more. We love being Áme.”

HOLIDAY SHOPPING GUIDE 2022

Great gift ideas to inspire you this season; and don’t forget to shop local when possible.

TOYS

KIDS’ CORNER

1. Ball Pit: Ball pits are great for child sensory experience! $179; CrateandBarrel.com. 2. Jungle Gym/Mat: Indoor jungle gyms and play mats will keep your kids entertained all winter long. $229; NuggetComfort.com | $249; PotteryBarnKids.com. 3. Personalized Backpack: A personalized backpack is both thoughtful and practical and will last for years to come. $22.50 - $134.50; PotteryBarnKids.com. 4. Balance Bike: Balance bikes help toddlers control their speed and develop bilateral coordination. $49.99; Retrospec.com. 5. Montessori Toys: The options are endless with Montessori toys. Consider educational puzzles for toddlers or a wooden music instrument set for older children. Prices vary; Amazon.com | Etsy.com. 6.3D Play Carpets: 3D play carpets don’t only add a stylish element to your child’s room but are a great source of entertainment. With vast options, choose a carpet that is catered to your child’s interests. $50 - $150; Amazon.com. 7.Play Kitchen: Play kitchens encourage creativity and imagination while sharpening fine motor skills. $100 - $150; Amazon.com | Target.com.

not the good life, it’s the best life!

not the good life,

Welcome home to Harbor Place!

home to

home to Harbor Place!

home to Harbor Place!

From morning to night, you’ve

From morning to night, you’ve got friends to meet up with, activities to share and a beautiful environment around you.

meet up with,

share and a beautiful

From morning to night, you’ve got friends to meet up with, activities to share and a beautiful environment around you.

From morning to night, you’ve got friends to meet up with, activities to share and a beautiful environment around you.

around you.

From fine dining, to sunny

fine dining, to sunny courtyard lunches, our chef prepares meals meant to be savored.

our chef

meals meant to be savored.

From fine dining, to sunny courtyard lunches, our chef prepares meals meant to be savored.

From fine dining, to sunny courtyard lunches, our chef prepares meals meant to be savored.

from a range of active living options that complement

a range of

from a range of

lifestyle.

that

FOR HIM

4. 5.

1. Ember Mug: The Ember mugs redefine your hot drink experience. Give the gift of chosen drink temperature for up to 1.5 hours. $99 - $180; Ember.com 2. Sunglasses: Sunglasses are a great gift that can be used all year. If you are ready to splurge on a nice pair, Ray-Ban glasses are classic. If you are looking for something more affordable, consider browsing through Amazon! You might be surprised by the great quality at great prices. $70.50 - $493; Ray-Ban.com | $10 - $50; Amazon.com. 3. Man Crate: Shop unique and exciting gadgets, gear and grub he’ll love, all delivered in a manly crate. $49 - $100+; ManCrates.com. 4. Yeti: From ultra-durable coolers and drinkware to bags and apparel, you’ll be sure to find something perfect. Prices vary; Yeti.com. 5.Traeger® Wood Pellet Grills: Enhance your grilling game. You can grill, bake, smoke, roast, braise and barbecue with Traeger® Wood Pellet Grills. $449.99 - $3,799.99; Traeger.com.

FOR

1. 40-Ounce Stanley Tumbler: The 40-ounce vacuum-insulated cup is said to keep drinks cold for up to 11 hours, hot for seven, and even holds ice for up to two days. They sell out fast, so if you find one, snag it! $50; Stanley1913.com. 2. Shacket and Puffer Jacket: Shackets and puffer jackets are trending right now. There are options to fit any budget! Prices vary; OldNavy.Gap.com, Target.com, Forever21.com. 3. Gold Hoop Earrings: The gift of jewelry never disappoints! Consider getting your loved one a pair of gold hoops to pair with any outfit. Prices vary; Target.com, KendraScott.com, OliveandPiper.com. 4. Pottery Barn Faux Fur Ruched Throw: With its ultra-plush silky fibers, ruched ripple effect and substantial weight, the Pottery Barn Faux Fur sets itself apart from others! $179 - $299; PotteryBarn.com. 5. Drybar Premium Hair Care Products: From dry shampoo and conditioner to premium hot tools, you will find the perfect gift at Drybar for your hair-care loving girl. $6 - $349; Drybar.com. 6. Anthropologie Candle: Not only do Anthropology candles give off amazing scents, they’re beautiful too, making them a perfect decorative touch to every home. $16 - $100+; Anthropology.com.

luxurybounce houses

The Seattle White House is ready to take your party to the next level! The white aesthetic is perfect for any event.

it white or decorate it with a balloon garland to match

of your event.

for

in

Throwing

CELEBRATE THE SEASON WITH TACOMA CITY BALLET

by JILLIAN CHANDLER

It’s the magical story that generations continue to love, and the community has four opportunities to take a seat at Pantages Theater in Tacoma as Tacoma City Ballet presents The Nutcracker December 10, 11, 17 and 18.

Tacoma City Ballet has been performing The Nutcracker for 67 years in the city of Tacoma, and 2022 marks their 39th year performing in the 1,200-seat Pantages Theater, according to Miss Erin M. Ceragioli, executive and artistic director for Tacoma City Ballet.

COE highlightA&H HIGHLIGHT

Auditions for the ballet took place in September, and the dancers have been dedicated to their craft to bring the best performance to audiences. “Our audiences can always expect a wonderful Nutcracker production, and once again, this season, they will not be disappointed, as we boast a growing membership of our Professional Division,” shares Miss Erin. “Tacoma City Ballet Company dancers, character actors/dancers, and children of the school always bring great joy to our audiences.”

The ballet will feature approximately 150 performers, ranging in age from 4 to 75, plus a performing live orchestra and chorus. This year’s Nutcracker ballet features Ayana Ruelas as Clara, Benson Myers as the Nutcracker Prince, Travis Goldman as Godfather Drosselmeyer, Collin Gould and Erik Gould (double cast) as Fritz, Joel Myers as the Mouse King, and Isabelle Gould and Anne Milner (double cast) as the Sugar Plum Fairy.

Don’t miss your chance to experience this beloved ballet with family and friends this holiday season.

Tickets range in price from $17.50 to $102.50. Miss Erin and the rest of Tacoma City Ballet encourage the community to attend. “Ticket sales support Tacoma City Ballet Company to create and present more classical ballet productions. Ticket sales also support Tacoma City Ballet’s Jan Collum Memorial Scholarship Fund that offers children the opportunity to study the art of classical ballet who would otherwise be unable to do so,” she shares. “Tacoma City Ballet has given over $1.5 million in scholarships to the children of Tacoma and the South Puget Sound region.”

For ticket links, visit TacomaCityBallet.com, and be sure to follow Tacoma City Ballet at Facebook.com/tacomacityballet.

Tacoma Distillery Festival

Sample spirits from Northwest distilleries at the return of the Tacoma Distillery Festival! From 3 to 7pm on November 5, you’ll have the opportunity to meet the makers and discover your new favorite tipple to purchase and take home just in time for the holidays. Included with your ticket is a souvenir shot glass and six tasting tokens. Funds raised will support the work of Tacoma Arts Live’s arts access and education programs. Find out more and purchase your tickets online (which are priced $45 in advance, $50 the day of, and $10 for designated drivers) at TacomaArtsLive.org.

Annual Tacoma City Turkey Trot

COE COE

The Great Tacoma Book Fair

In partnership with the Washington Arts Commission and the National Endowment for the Arts, local nonprofit Blue Forge Press presents this annual holiday book

Mary Bridge Children’s Festival of Trees Gala

This annual holiday festival and gala will feature a live auction with more than 15 beautifully decorated trees, mini tree and wreath

auction, and exciting after-party. Scheduled for Saturday, December 3, and held at the Tacoma Armory (1001 South Yakima Avenue), the festivities kick off at 6pm. Reservations are $350 per guest for the inperson event and $50 for the virtual link, which is good for an individual, couple or household. All proceeds from the 2022 festival and gala will support Mary Bridge Children’s Hospitals’ mission of expanding access to highquality, child-centered care. To register, visit Multicare.org/festival.

Lighted Boat Parade

* Please note, as of press time, these events were still scheduled to take place as planned. As there is always 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.

cookiesSantafor

Perfectly soft gingerbread cookies

Ingredients

1 cup softened butter

1 cup light brown sugar

1 large egg

1 cup molasses

1 tbsp. apple cider vinegar

2 tsp. vanilla extract 5 cups flour

1 tsp. baking soda ½ tsp. salt

1 tbsp. ground ginger

1 tbsp. ground cinnamon ½ tsp. ground allspice ½ tsp. ground cloves ¼ tsp. ground nutmeg

Method

Place the sugar and butter in a large mixing bowl and beat with an electric mixer on medium-high speed until combined. Add the egg, molasses, vinegar and vanilla extract, and beat until fully combined.

In a separate mixing bowl, mix the dry ingredients.

Add the dry ingredients to the molasses mix. Mix on low speed just until combined into a soft cookie dough.

Chill the cookie dough for at least 3 hours and even overnight.

Once rolled and cut out, cook at 350°F for 8 to 10 minutes.

Recipe gathered from SavoryNothings.com.

SURREY

Surrey, British Columbia, is just across the United States border into Canada. It is one of the most culturally diverse cities in the Metro Vancouver area. In the area known by Canadians as “the Lower Mainland,” it stretches from Tidal Flats in the west all the way to the Fraser Valley in the east. The Surrey Spice Trail will take you across six neighborhoods to showcase the vibrant and diverse foodie scene. Discover strip-mall dives to high-end dining and everything in between.

Surrey is known as “The City of Parks,” and over 50 percent of Surrey is greenspace, which includes farms, golf courses, parks, gardens and urban forests. There are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors. Head to White Rock, one of Surrey’s neighboring communities, to enjoy views for miles and a large sand tidal beach. Stroll the waterfront with its cute shops, ice cream parlors and restaurants. Saunter down the longest pier in Canada. With Surrey situated on the Pacific Flyway, a north-south migratory bird route, the area is very popular with birdwatchers. With over 200 species of birds, it is easy to see why. Cycling is a loved activity, and there are plenty of hiking and walking trails throughout the city.

The Surrey Spice Trail is a must do while visiting this area. The diversity of food offerings gives you the opportunity to experience a variety of international cuisine. You’ll find family owned businesses sharing their traditional meals cooked with love. You’ll also find well-known chefs at places like My Shanti, where Vikram VI works his magic. The options can be overwhelming, so visit the Spice Trail website to locate restaurants on an interactive map. Tapping on a restaurant will give you a description of the restaurant experience, photos of their signature dishes, and tips.

Chacha’s is a North Indian restaurant that offers a special dish just on weekends. This very popular, bright, modern eatery will have you feeling like you stepped into a Bollywood movie, as the music and aromas of this unique cuisine envelop you as you walk to your table. For an appetizer, try the Gol Gappay Shots. This darling dish is presented in a miniature cart like the ones you would see on the streets of India. A crispy, round, hollow shell known as a puri is stuffed with potatoes, chickpeas and chutneys. You take it and add the tangy-flavored water it is served with and pop the whole thing into your mouth. So fun. Order the Paneer Kulcha, only available on weekends. Kulcha is a special seasoned Indian flatbread that is stuffed (choose from a variety of meats or veggies) and crispy. The dish is served with chickpeas and raita, a classic Indian yogurt sauce.

THE SPICE TRAIL

DiscoverSurreyBC.com CHACHA’S Chachas.ca

STAY

The Civic Hotel in downtown Surrey is part of the Autograph Collection for Marriott and is a gorgeous hotel in a central location for exploring the area. The rooms have floor-to-ceiling windows that provide panoramic city views. After a busy day exploring, head to the heated rooftop pool to relax. It is just steps away from the SkyTrain, which provides transportation in the Greater Vancouver area. The hotel is walking distance to Holland Park. Make sure to view local artist Glen Anderson’s Art Nouveau-style water fountain. Seasonally enjoy the gardens, which start with spring tulips and then summer roses. Shop at the Central City Shopping Center, a large mall that is also walking distance from the Civic Hotel.

The Holiday Inn and Suites, located in the Cloverdale neighborhood, is perfect for families. It is not far from the US-Canada border and the Peace Arch. The hotel has family friendly rooms and an indoor pool open year-round. It is next to the Cloverdale Fairgrounds and Agriplex, which has events throughout the year including the Cloverdale Rodeo and Country Fair.

DOHead out to Mud Bay Park to access the Boundary Bay Trail. This lovely, scenic walk will take you along the shores of Boundary Bay. This area is one of the most important bird areas in Canada and the best place to see shorebirds. Take the 3-kilometers-long nature trail (you can find a brochure at the website). Look for seals at high tide in the waves. At low tide, birds flock to the mudflats and eelgrass meadows to dine. Hundreds of thousands of birds visit throughout the year; some arrive from as far away as South America. If you want to hike further or do a bike ride, the trail links up with the Dyke Trail for another 20 kilometers of shoreline ending in Boundary Bay Regional Park.

Take some time to explore historic Cloverdale. This is Surrey’s birthplace, where it started out as a small farm community in 1870. Downtown Cloverdale has a business district with more than 200 shops and restaurants. Access a walking and driving tour brochure from the website. Its small-town charm and historic features were featured in the TV show “Smallville,” and it is a popular filming location.

MUD BAY PARK

Surrey.ca/parks-recreation/parks/mud-bay-park

CLOVERDALE

CloverdaleBIA.com/cloverdale

Head out to Mud Bay Park to access the Boundary Bay Trail. This lovely, scenic walk will take you along the shores of Boundary Bay.

near the

without paid