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s l i a t de features

Football Widows p. 7

How to Survive From Now Until the Super Bowl

Moms on the Run p. 27

Tips to Manage Back to School Schedules

Boots: Fall’s Sexiest Bounty p. 17

How This Accessory Covers So Much Yet Stays So Sexy

Roc’n the Brand p. 18

Ericka Pittman Vice President of The Blue Flame Agency

13 Finding the Perfect Bra

You May be Wearing Them All Wrong!

15 Musings of Motherhood Nesting Nutcase

21 Panties in a Bunch Quest for the Perfect Pair

23 Relationships

Downside of Being a Cougar

25 Sore Spot

Fall In Love With Vegetables

29 Finding Happiness

10 Simple Ways for You to Choose Happiness

31 Local living woman Spotlight

Rosemary Caligiuri: Let Me Show You What I Can Do

33 Just the Tips

What to Do After Your Offer Has Been Accepted From Lauren Cronmiller at Keller Williams Realty Group

37 Kid Spot

If Lunch Boxes Could Talk

38 Autumn Recipes 41 The Forty Year Old Version

Gives Us the Male Perspective on Household Duties

42 Back to School

Tips for Moms That Are Back to Hitting the Books

44 Beauty Tips

How to Care for Your Beauty Tools and Products

48 On the Spot with Local Living Woman Kat Dennings

}

2 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

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“Beautiful young people are accidents of nature but beautiful old people are works of art.”

— Eleanor Roosevelt Recently, I happened to be in a local convenience store perusing some magazines. To my surprise, and disappointment, on the cover of almost every single woman’s magazine, was some type of “anti-aging” message. The headlines, Look Younger, Defy Aging Now, and Get Younger Looking Hands are essentially saying that women don’t look beautiful the way we are.

Did someone figure out a way to stop time, and I missed it?

I’m sort of looking forward to retirement, travel, watching my kids get older, becoming wiser, and whatever else the next chapter holds. We are aging. And we’re supposed to fight it? First off, “anti” anything to me sounds like a battle. Personally, I’d rather not be at war with something that is as a matter of fact, going to happen. I am for PRO-aging. Like a favorite pair of jeans… the first time you put them on, they were nice, crisp, and pretty cool. Now they are lived in. A little beat up, but SO much better.

And before I’m misunderstood, here’s my disclaimer: Everyone should do whatever they need to do to feel good about themselves – may it be exercise, volunteering, wearing whatever you want with your head held high, and sure, Botox or boobs. But that desire and motivation should come from within and should have nothing to do with this notion that we need to appear younger.

There are girls in their 20’s getting work done, which seems totally ridiculous. So let us send a message – we in fact, are quite happy with all that aging has to offer (okay, most of it) and can’t wait to see what’s next.

Enjoy Your True Beauty!

Karen A. Kovacs Publisher

4 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

Volume I, Issue Four Publisher Karen A. Kovacs Editor-in-Chief Lisa Walters Art Director Sherilyn Kulesh Director of Media Development Blair Johnson Marketing and Sales Manager Susanna Koppany Contributing Writers M. Chernoff, Whitney Coy, Lauren Cronmiller, Georgina Ellis-Young, Francesca, Kelly Jackson, Lori Johnston, Stephanie Nolasco, Erika Ringwald, Kenny Spaulding, Judi Thompson, Amy Wambold, Michelle Welliver Senior Account Manager Lori Straff Account Executives Cynthia Price, Cynthia Zoccali Accounting Manager Melinda Kovacs BLUE WATER MEDIA, LLC 4 Gulph Mill Road Somers Point, NJ 08244 (609) 788-0443 info.bluewatermedia@gmail.com

that. Just as women try and convince men that “it’s just a game” and it’s no big deal, they need to adhere to their own logic. It is just a game, so don’t make it a big deal and let him watch it.

2. Learn the game – Women are better at

5 Ways for “Football Widows” to Handle Football Season

By Kelly Jackson

W

ell, it’s that time of year again. Men have hunkered down into their man caves in preparation for the upcoming football season. While it is a glorious time for men, conversely, if you listen closely, you can hear voices of disgust and exasperation all across the country from girlfriends, fiancée’s and wives that detest that first weekend in September.

Yes, there’s more than a fair share of women that love the sport just as men do, but most women hate losing the attention of their man for 5 months. Here are a few suggestions to help the ladies cope with the upcoming months of the pro and college football seasons. These 5 things ought to help ease some of the tension caused by the sport. Here’s to a great (and peaceful) football season!

1. Let him watch the game – Women can’t say on one hand that they want to keep their man happy while trying to deny him something that does just

learning and adapting to new things than men, so it stands to reason that learning to embrace football may be in their best interest. When you spend time competing with men’s passion for the sport, the big picture goes unnoticed: Spending time together.

I’ve yet to meet a woman that didn’t come to love football once they were able to follow it. (Although don’t use it as an excuse to crash boy’s night!)

3. Don’t use sex as a distraction – This oldest and most pointless trick in the book always causes more problems than it solves. Don’t put on the lingerie in an effort to make the man “choose” what’s more important. If it’s a big enough game, he’ll choose that. Why? Because this moment in this game is only going to happen once! Even if a woman is upset and withholds sex, eventually she’ll come around again and a wise man already knows this.

4. Bond with your friends – Some women will never be able to sit down and actually care about football, now is a good time to catch up with friends you may have lost touch with during the busy summer months. Get together for pedicures, have dinner, go shopping… be some sort of support for one another instead of moping around the house.

5. Catch up on reality TV/your own programs – Instead of feeling neglected, women

can catch up on things they like to watch but our men could care less about. Whatever God awful reality TV programming is on is more than capable of keeping women busy for hours, while a man indulges in the glory of football.

Happy Football Season!

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

7

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Mothers often love this time of year because our children return to their early bedtimes and school puts us all back on a predictable schedule.

However, this time can also be hectic.

The hours beyond the school day are often filled with homework battles and figuring out a quick meal to consume, before trekking off to an evening activity. (Check out tips that will help manage the mayhem in our article “Mom on the Run.”) Whether you’re a mom that goes bananas this time of year or a super human that juggles it all flawlessly, we all wonder what our precious babies experience during the school day. “If Lunch Boxes Could Talk” is a wonderful reflection on one of the many tasks mothers take on when September rolls in.

There are pros and cons to for every season; but I like to think that everyone is able to embrace the crisp air, scenery, and wardrobe change that autumn provides. I am in my glory when I can leisurely sip coffee and bask in the gentle sun and perfect autumn air!

This is my favorite time to grab brunch outside, while sporting a colorful scarf and riding boots. What woman isn’t giddy when it is finally acceptable to bust out those boots? They are a fall fashion staple for females of all ages, but how are boots so sexy while covering up so much? Be sure to check out “Boots: Fall’s Sexiest Bounty” by Georgina Ellis-Young for some insight on this seasonal trend.

So there is fashion and back to school routines, what else it there for a woman to prepare for this time of year? Oh, yes… football! I was an athlete all through high school and college, so I enjoy watching a good game. Although, I have certainly had my moments when I wish my husband wasn’t glued to the recliner for an entire Sunday afternoon! It seems to be a battle that women know is inevitable, yet we can’t seem to figure out how to manage our frustrations. “Football Widows” offers some good suggestions to help us survive from now until the Super Bowl.

After reading this issue of Local living woman, I hope you are able to connect with our writers and reflect on your own life. What do you love and embrace most about this time of year? What frustrates you? How are you going to manage it? The leaves may be falling, but that doesn’t mean you can’t commit to new growth in your personal lives.

HAAN • FREUDENHAUS • LAFONT • • MA S U N A G A • B A R T O

8 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

Lisa Walters, Editor-in-Chief

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Bring Sexy Back..

Finding the Perfect Bra

By Stephanie Nolasco

I

f you’re wearing a bra this very second, chances are it’s riding up your back, the underwire is poking your rib cage, or the straps are digging into your shoulders, making it feel as if you’re wearing a Victorian contraption instead of a sexy undergarment. It turns out that you, along with thousands of women, are wearing the wrong bra size. Here are some tips on how any woman can find the perfect bra and boost their self-confidence.

in the States. Besides who wouldn’t mind wearing silky-smooth lingerie from France or London? But if you think a standard bra from a cheaper retailer means saving money, think again. An average American bra made with weak cotton will last up to six months. A European bra can survive for an entire year. The fabric is what supports your breasts, so a cheaper bra looses its elasticity quickly and it’ll need to be thrown away sooner.

1. Finding the Right Size

Lingerie isn’t only about providing support, it’s also about looking and feeling like the vixen you are.

Retro-inspired looks have been popular for a long time and make you look like a glamorous pinup girl, with little effort. Some lingerie designers are even replicating the sensuous patterns of golden-era Hollywood and applying them to modern styles.

Bullet bras are becoming a hit again. It’s sexy without it being only for the bedroom. Thanks to Spanx, girdles are coming back and are better than ever.

Go to a reputable lingerie store. They’ll be able to size you correctly and provide a variety of options that look good on you. Major department stores and local lingerie shops will spend more time showing you how a proper cup can benefit your breasts, not just sell you a product.

2. Major No-Nos Many women assume that tightening up your straps is supposed to make your bra fit better.

However, the support of your bra should be coming from the band. The bra should be able to hold your breasts properly without the straps on your shoulders. In addition, a strap shouldn’t be able to be pulled back or fit too snug. The right cup should also cover the entire breast, without causing un expected spilling.

3. Invest in Europe The difference between a Parisian bra and one from Walmart isn’t only price and location. European bra companies are known for using the finest fabrics and offering a larger array of sizes than those found

4. Scope Current Trends

5. Go Shopping!

The Internet has thousands of retailers from around the world that provide a large collection of sizes.

Once you do find a manufacturer that sells lingerie that compliments your body type, wait until they have sales and stock up. After you purchase your new undergarments, make sure you properly take care of them by hand washing or putting your lingerie in a mesh bag before they go into the washing machine. When bras last longer, you can spend your cash on other must-haves like jewelry or shoes.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

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14 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

musings of motherhood

Nesting Nutcase

By Lisa Walters

S

ometime late in the pregnancy “nesting” strikes and consumes the soon to be mother’s daily agenda. Most cases are mild… vacuuming more than usual, organizing the kitchen junk drawer, or finally recycling that build up of unread magazines. If you are typically a woman that likes a tidy home, you may catch a more extreme strand and turn into a total nutcase.

Unfortunately for my husband, I am the latter of the two. Here are some signs that you may be a Nesting Nutcase: 1. Unintended scrub down: While reaching in the fridge for juice you suddenly begin removing every item, throwing out expired condiments, disinfecting every shelf and crevice, and finally make husband pull the fridge out so you can mop behind that mother load of filth. (Ninety minutes later you allow yourself to consume glass of juice.)

2. You NEED new things: Area rugs, lamp shades, bathroom towels… everything seems old and dingy and you must have the whole house fresh for that new bundle of joy.

3. Spiral effect of getting new things: A new wreath may prompt you to repaint the front door.

You may then wander around the downstairs and find other things to “touch up” with the left over paint. (Which may or may not include the railing and banister of your stairs at 10:30p.m.)

4. Discovery of new cleaning methods: After realizing baby wipes are extremely efficient for cleaning off dirt, dust, and doggie paw prints, you spend two days walking around with a tub of wipes to make every piece of woodwork sparkle. (Which may lead to wiping your son’s bottom with a soapy washcloth because you are out of wipes.)

5. Purge, purge, purge: On a Tuesday you decide that you want to have a yard sale on Saturday. The downstairs appears to be a hoarder house for the next 72 hours, as you obsess over gathering every unused item to get rid of.

6. Tasks must be done instantly: After impulsively purchasing a new rug, you can’t wait for your husband to get home and put this beast down. When your brother and sister-in-law pop in, your first words to them are, “Oh, good! You can help me move my couches!”

7. Stocking the kitchen: A week is spent researching recipes and making freezer meals.

8. Cracking the whip: All those projects you’ve been politely reminding your husband to do for the past two years, miraculously get done in a few short days. (As our contractor put it, “A pregnant woman is scarier than Mike Tyson in his prime.”)

9. Early bird: You prepare for a season or holiday early because that baby could arrive anytime.

(Witches, pumpkins, and cornstalks may have been pulled out of storage on August 22nd in my home…)

10. Deranged and Rearranged: Your husband can’t help himself to a snack or find a coffee mug because you rearranged all the kitchen cabinets.

Twice... in one week.

If you are expecting and most of these situations sound familiar to you, you are probably a “nesting nutcase” like myself. A special thank you to my husband for his patience and “yes dear” attitude these last few weeks.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

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Boots:

Fall’s Sexiest Bounty

By Georgina Young-Ellis

W

ith the arrival of fall comes the return of one of the sexiest items in a woman’s wardrobe: her boots­. (Counter-intuitive, perhaps, because they cover more than they expose!) Many of us have more than one pair, some variety of black, brown, suede, cowboy, high heeled, casual, rain, snow, chunky, or sleek.

They might zip up the side, lace up the front or have to be pulled on like a riding boot. Men’s eyes seem to be drawn to a woman’s legs in the right pair of boots, but why is that? Wikipedia says boots have appeal because they hint at “the interaction of male ‘strength,’ female ‘compassion’ and a dash of sexuality.” I’m not sure where the compassion comes in; instead, I’d argue that boots give a woman an air of defiance, and that’s sexy, more than just a dash.

Often paired with patterned tights, lace stockings, or even over a bare leg, the popularity of fashion boots hearkens back to Victorian times. In those days boots were tightly laced, like a corset, and hid the forbidden glimpse of a foot while still showing off the curve of the ankle. The Victorians had it right: if you cover up, with just the right degree of reveal, it forces the admirer to imagine what’s underneath, or even what’s at the north end of those boot-clad legs.

But boots didn’t really take off in fashion until the 1960s, when girls in micro-minis and vinyl go-go boots, dancing energetically in cages, helped launch the sexual revolution.

Boots have become the symbol of the dominatrix—the companion of the whip, the black leather bustier, and a pair of handcuffs. But the average woman slipping into her fall boots for the first time in the season is probably not thinking about them in such extremes. She’s simply noticing how they make her skirt seem a little flirtier, or her legs look longer as they fit snuggly over the calves of her skinny jeans. And though many women go with a highheeled version for optimum hotness, I think there’s something appealingly demure about a flat-heeled boot, or even a cute rainboot, with a short-ish skirt. How about a feminine, lacey dress with combat boots? Or, in the privacy of your boudoir, nothing but thigh-highs? No matter how you wear them, give your boots a little extra credit this autumn. They are, by nature, sexier than you think.

Georgina Young-Ellis lives in Queens, New York with her artist husband and musician son. She is the author of The Time Mistress Series, a romantic time-travel series spiced with adventure. Titles include The Time Baroness, set in Jane Austen’s England; The Time Heiress, staged in pre-Civil War New York City; and The Time Contessa, a journey to Renaissance Italy.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

17

INTERIOR DESIGNER

Barbara McInnis-Hayman

Good Design is Life Changing...

BY SHANNON SNYDER

D

esign is something that comes natural to Barbara McInnis-Hayman. The award-winning interior designer has been dabbling in the field for over 20 years and opened her own franchise of Decorating Den Interiors five years ago. Barbara has a degree in Communications from Villanova, a skill she believes is vital in translating clients’ ideas into finalized projects.

She has also been through Decorating Den’s Professional Design School training. Even her hobbies are artistically-oriented. When she’s not working, she enjoys watching HGTV or painting.

The Jamaican native moved to the United States 15 years ago with a quick stint in New York before settling down in Pennsylvania. Her Caribbean roots may have inspired her love of color, something she incorporates readily into her design.

Barbara doesn’t like to put her own personal style into a box, while working with clients she assures them that their style is her own. If her clients are most interested in contemporary, that is what they will get. She believes good design can be life changing and loves witnessing clients’ reactions after the transformation is complete.

She believes that there is a misconception about interior designers being expensive, but says it doesn’t have to be. A lot of people end up spending hundreds of dollars in a store

18 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

only to realize that their vision does not work. In the long run, they end up spending more time and money to rectify those mistakes. Hiring a designer from the onset could have eliminated those issues.

There is a lot of work that goes into developing design plans. After meeting with clients, Barbara sits down and spends hours pulling the right items, fabrics and accessories from her list of over 100 preferred suppliers while taking the colors, space, and balance of the room into consideration.

Although Barbara loves all aspects of the design process, accessorizing is a very important and often overlooked part.

She loves how small details fill in the blanks and help make the room complete.

The past twelve months have been a very emotional ride for Barbara. After recovering from a bout of cancer and experiencing a family tragedy, she went on to win both an Inaugural and a Directors award from Decorating Den. A strong and professional woman for sure, as she has surmounted her obstacles and ended the year on a good note.

To contact Barbara at Decorating Den Interiors, you can reach her at (484) 624-4787 or barbaramcinnis@hotmail.com . She is located in East Coventry but serves the entire Philadelphia region.

JENNIFER RILEY Compassionate Attorney That Treats You as Clients, Not Cases

By Shannon Snyder

A

s a kid, attorney Jennifer Riley’s knack of talking herself out of trouble led many family members to suggest her pursuing law. A childhood filled with these remarks must have sunk in, for now Jennifer operates her own successful family law offices and has in recent years been the recipient of many impressive accolades within the field.

The Philadelphia native and Temple Law graduate was attracted to the profession because it empowered her to help others. Her impressive list of pro bono work is a testament to her dedication. On top of her 10-12 hour days, Jennifer volunteers at the American Bar Association’s Military Pro Bono Project where she provides free services to active military personnel. Additionally, she provides free consultations at community resource centers.

Her hard work hardly goes unnoticed. For the fourth year in a row Pennsylvania’s Super Lawyers Magazine has honored her with their rising star distinction. In 2014, The American Society of Legal Advocates named her as one of the Top 40 Family Law Attorneys under 40 in the state of Pennsylvania.

While they may not garner as much attention, it is her client reviews that Jennifer often finds the most touching.

Clients’ acknowledgment that Jennifer successfully helped them through difficult times is something she finds very reaffirming. For an attorney whose days are spent in court or in preparation and evenings filled responding to client emails and phone calls, this positive feedback fuels her in

addition to copious amounts of coffee.

Her persistent work ethic translates outside of the courtroom. Jennifer financially put herself through college, law, and graduate school, which she admits was an incredible challenge.

To do so, it meant that she had to have career throughout her schooling. Although difficult, it was these experiences that helped dictate the type of attorney Jennifer has become today.

She has learned how to communicate with clients from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds and walks of life, in addition to understanding the financial restraint her clients may face. These empathetic traits were the inspiration behind her law office’s motto of “providing high quality, compassionate legal services that treat you like clients, not cases,” which Jennifer strongly believes is an important quality for an attorney to possess.

The firm is more than a divorce firm. They also draft prenuptial and post-nuptial agreements, and help families with adoption, as well as estate planning. They focus their practice on helping clients through some of the more difficult parts of life.

To contact Jennifer for a free consultation, call her at the Law Offices of Jennifer J. Riley (215) 283-5080 or email her at jennifer@jjrlawfirm.com • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

19

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Panties in a Bunch

By Georgina Young-Ellis

E

ver since my favorite local lingerie store stopped carrying six-packs of cotton bikini panties, made by a brand whose name I cannot remember, I have been hopelessly searching for the right underwear at a reasonable price. This lingerie store I speak of is nothing fancy.

As a matter of fact, I’m sure it’s been there since the 1950s. Yes, still selling girdles (as well as some off-brand of Spanx), and those nighties that grandmas wear around the house. The salesladies are all old-world and middle-aged, and will stop at nothing to find you just what you’re looking for. For me, that used to be those 100% cotton bikini panties in the package, which weren’t French cut, or boy-pants, or thongs, or granny-panties—just regular bikini style.

But eventually, they stopped carrying them, so I tried other types, and other stores. I went to Macy’s, I went to Victoria’s Secret, I even went to K-Mart, but nothing I found fit right, was as comfortable, or looked as cute on me as the cotton panties with the unknown name.

Part of the problem is that undies these days almost all have spandex or nylon in them, and I was always told one should wear 100% cotton in the crotch. We need our parts to breathe! And though I appreciate the efforts of Victoria’s Secret to make us sexier and more appealing to our lovers, their quality is not as good as it used to be, and frankly, they’re a little tacky. I think a simple cotton bikini panty is as sexy as the naughtiest thing VS can dream up.

Which brings me to the actresses we see on screen

in the beautiful, matching bra/panty ensembles they always happen to be wearing no matter how spontaneous the love scene. Are those lacey things really comfortable? Aren’t we allowed to have undies that are cute and comfy? I’m glad the thong craze is over.

If VPL (Visible Panty Line) is my concern, I’d rather go with the boy-pant. It’s not the most comfortable, but at least I don’t have to go around all day with a string between my cheeks.

And so the search goes on. I did find a six-pack of bikini panties at Costco that are comfy, but seem to create bulges where I didn’t think they’d existed before. I never thought I’d be the kind of gal who tries underwear from Costco. I keep checking back into the 1950s lingerie store to see if they’re carrying my brand again. They keep assuring me maybe they will someday, but I’m sure it’s just a ruse to get me in the door. In the meantime, I’ll keep looking, and praying, that the perfect pair of underwear will appear to me someday. I’m tired of the issue always creating a virtual bunch in my metaphorical panties.

Georgina Young-Ellis lives in Queens, New York with her artist husband and musician son. She is the author of The Time Mistress Series, a romantic time-travel series, spiced with adventure. Titles include The Time Baroness, set in Jane Austen’s England; The Time Heiress, staged in pre-Civil War New York City; and The Time Contessa, a journey to Renaissance Italy.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

21

Take your Claws Off, Darling,

Before you Scratch too Deep!

By Francesca

Y

ears ago, sitting in a club sipping a glowing martini with my past squeeze, a young stud on my left slid a note under my cocktail napkin. I cautiously opened the note to discover he desired a liaison. I turned my head not wanting to arouse suspicion, and his baby blues pulsated. Whether it was the martini or the trendy atmosphere, I admit I was intrigued. I slid my business card under his drink.

When the phone trilled the next morning I wasn’t surprised. He wasn’t only young, but a famous poet who had been published in many national magazines.

A few hours later he sent me two beautiful poems, putting Wordsworth, Keats and Shelley to shame.

Was this bold of him? Damn right! And absolutely decadent. Words that made an older woman melt!

He was 26 to my 47, which meant he was younger than my oldest son. Our first date was a poetry reading at another chic club. Imagine my surprise when he pulled up in my driveway in a souped up Camaro boasting primer? Oh, yes! I am not the queen of class, but this was mind-boggling. Yet, I was still game. He stepped out of the car, tall, handsome, and wearing a rock shirt. Hitting the road at a fast speed, he blasted alternative music from an underground music station. Yikes! My preferences are Italian operettas, with Rod Stewart thrown in! I sheepishly asked him to turn down the music and he asked me if I preferred “elevator” music. In baseball you’re allowed three strikes before you’re out…

We had a great night and it was quite an honor to read with him. Of course, you’re now wondering the obvious. After all, cougar and cub… did I or didn’t I? Suffice it to say a thrilling difference does exist between young and older men.

But, things do unravel as quickly as a ball of yarn.

I tired of racecars and fast food. He always wanted to treat. I once schlepped him to a five-star restaurant. What a mistake! He sat there in torn jeans, a muscle shirt and sandals among suave men sporting jackets and ties. Then he gazed at the food prices in shock. So much for that idea.

Soon the differences became too much for me.

When home, drinking wine or reading poetry to each other was absolutely divine. The moment we went out issues, admittedly on my part, evolved.

The final straw arrived when introduced to his college buddies at a café. I donned my tight jeans (that I could squeeze into during those days), high boots and a turtleneck. Suddenly, I was surrounded by young boys and felt ridiculous. I had attended the same college as them, but then they asked, “when?” and I almost slid off of my chair!

And that, my dears, was the end. I will always be fond of him. I still have his poems tucked away, and yes, it was an ego boosting experience. But then I remember the old Camaro, crazy music and cheap restaurants, and I smile.

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23

SORE SPOT

FALL In Love With Vegetables...

By Erika Ringwald

T

his is one of my favorite times of the year.

I love when the air turns crisp, the leaves change colors, and the smell in the air is unmistakable. At this point in my life, fall means apple picking, pumpkin patches, and football. My menu also changes. This is when I think about comfort foods. Although these foods may be different to everyone, they will always fill you up and make you feel good. For me a weekend of socializing with family and friends, playing outside with my boys, and hearing football on the TV, is what makes me feel good. And the one food that ties all that together is chili!

Chili is a hearty, one-pot dish that can cook on it’s own in the slow cooker or can be thrown together rather quickly. Most importantly, it always feeds a crowd! Chili is a very versatile food for my lifestyle during this season. I also love that it can be filled with vegetables that my kids might not otherwise jump at, and it’s nutrient dense without blowing the calories out of the water. If chili is a meat-and-kidney-bean-dish that does nothing more than cause you indigestion, give this one a try!

1 15-oz can black beans, drained and rinsed, 1/2 cup liquid reserved 2 15-oz cans cannellini beans, drained and rinsed 1 28-oz can diced tomatoes

Vegetarian Fall Chili

If you want to add a little more love to this dish, serve it over some barley or quinoa.

2 Tbsp extra virgin olive oil 3 cups sweet potato, peeled and diced 2 cups chopped onions 1 2/3 cups coarsely chopped red bell peppers 2 cups chopped zucchini 6 garlic cloves, chopped 2 Tbsp chili powder 2 tsp dried oregano 1 1/2 tsp ground cumin 1-1 ½ tsp cocoa chili blend (I use McCormicks)

Heat oil in heavy large pot over medium-high heat.

Add onions, bell peppers, zucchini and garlic; sauté until onions soften, about 10 minutes. Mix in chili powder, oregano, cumin, and cocoa chili blend; stir 2 minutes. Mix in beans, 1/2 cup reserved bean liquid, diced tomatoes and sweet potatoes. Bring chili to boil, stirring occasionally. Reduce heat to medium-low and simmer until flavors blend and chili thickens, stirring occasionally, about 15 minutes.

Season to taste with salt and pepper.

This chili dish packs a nutritional punch. In this dish you are getting vitamin C, potassium, folate, and vitamin B6, for starters. There is a boatload of fiber going on here as well as phytochemicals that have many different antioxidant properties. Even the spices offer nutrition, not just taste.

My favorite garnishes are a little sprinkle of sharp cheddar and a dollop of sour cream. Enjoy!

Erika Ringwald is a Registered Dietitian with Erika Ringwald Nutrition. She focuses on bridging the gaps between nutrition information and making it work within your lifestyle. Erika can be reached at erika@ erikaringwaldnutrition.com.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

25

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s

t e r c e S e l p m i 3S

n u R e h t n o m from a Mo

By Michelle Welliver

A

s a full-time college student with three children heading back to school, the end of summer means a return to the chaos of life, as we know it. Gone are the days of sleeping in and a carefree schedule where things can be done on a whim.

Between school, sports, and work, everyone needs to be somewhere at a different time. For a mom the stress of little things such as “What’s for dinner,” start to take their toll. I have learned over the years (and through many not-so-smooth days) that there are three simple “secrets” to saving time, stress, and gray hair! There are times in life when we need to start doing things a little differently.

SECRET #1 – Create a routine and stick to it. I can’t express how important this really is! Imagine a morning where you are able to get out the door a few minutes early and without raising your voice an octave – it IS possible! I found that by getting up at the same time every morning and having certain increments of time allotted for each task – 20 minutes for breakfast, 15 minutes for chores, 10 minutes for showering, 20 minutes for cartoon time, etc. When things were getting accomplished, the day started out on a much better note.

SECRET #2 – Stay united and have a clear line of communication. Everyone has an important role to fill. By discussing exactly who will have each responsibility and plan the appointments for the week ahead, it helps avoid arguments and surprises.

For our family, we like to use our time around the dinner table on Sunday nights to have our weekly meetings.

SECRET #3 – Your crockpot can be your very best friend. Being a person that absolutely loves

to cook, I enjoy serving a delicious home cooked meal every chance I get. However, with our hectic schedule I often found that we were grabbing dinner on the run. Not only was this adding up financially, but it was adding to our waistlines as well! One day it dawned on me - there was a way to still prepare a healthier dinner for everyone, it could be eaten whenever someone was ready, and I could spare some of my sanity. With a little planning and some simple recipes like this one, your pocketbook and silhouette will be happier too…

3 Ingredient Crockpot Chicken Tacos

1 - 650 ml. jar of salsa (any flavor) 1 package of taco seasoning 4 boneless, skinless chicken breasts (they can even be frozen if you forget to thaw them out the night before) Spray crockpot with non-stick spray. Add salsa and seasoning, and stir. Add chicken and stir until coated completely. Cook on low for 8 hours and then shred with fork and serve with warm shells or tortillas and your favorite toppings.

Michelle Welliver finds passion as a mom, writer, photographer, cake artist, runner, and Media and Communications student at Delaware Valley College. She currently resides in Quakertown, Pennsylvania with her husband and three children.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

27

Choosing Happiness: 10 Simple Ways to Get You Started

H

By M. Chernoff

appiness is a choice. For every minute you are angry or irritated, you lose 60 seconds of happiness. Be happy. Be yourself. If others don’t like it, then let them be. Life isn’t about pleasing everybody.

If you have the courage to admit when you’re scared, the ability to laugh even as you cry, the nerve to speak up, even if your voice is shaking, the confidence to ask for help when you need it, and the wisdom to take it when it’s offered, then you have everything you need to get yourself to a happier state of mind.

Begin today by taking responsibility for your own contentment. Here are ten ways to choose happiness: 1. Choose to be the best YOU can be. – Give it your all in everything you do, commit to your goals, and don’t compare yourself to anyone else. Never try to be better than anyone else, but never stop trying to be the best you can be.

2. Choose to be around the right people. – Spend time with nice people who are smart, driven and likeminded. Relationships should help you, not hurt you. Surround yourself with people who reflect the person you want to be. Choose friends who you are proud to know, people you admire, who love and respect you – people who make your day a little brighter simply by being in it.

3. Choose to focus on what you have, not on what you haven’t. – When you appreciate what you have, what you have appreciates in value. Being grateful for the goodness that is already evident in your life will bring you a deeper sense of happiness.

4. Choose a good attitude. – Remember, life is a journey, not a destination. This moment, like every moment, is a priceless gift and an opportunity. Be positive, smile, and make it count. Pretend today is going to be great. Do so, and it will be. A great attitude always leads to great experiences.

5. Choose to smile more often. – A smile is a choice, not a miracle. A genuine smile makes you and everyone around you feel better. The simple act of smiling sends a message to your brain that you’re

happy. And when you’re happy, your body pumps out all kinds of feel-good endorphins. Bottom line: Smiling actually makes you happier.

6. Choose to take care of your body. – Taking care of your body is crucial to being the happiest person you can be. If you don’t have your physical energy in good shape, then your mental energy (your focus), your emotional energy (your feelings), and your spiritual energy (your purpose) will all be negatively affected.

7. Choose honesty. – Start being honest with yourself and everyone else. Don’t cheat. Be faithful. Be kind. Do the right thing! It is a less complicated way to live. Integrity is the essence of everything successful. When you break the rules of integrity you invite serious complications into your life. Keep life simple and enjoyable by doing what you know in your heart is right. Don’t get involved with drama that doesn’t affect you.

8. Choose to help others when you’re able. – Care about people. In life, you get what you put in. When you make a positive impact in someone else’s life, you also make a positive impact in your own life. Do something that’s greater than you – something that helps someone else to be happy or to suffer less.

9. Choose to let go when you know you should. – Sometimes you have to be strong for yourself. Some relationships and situations just can’t be fixed. If you try to force them back together, things will only get worse. Holding on is being brave, but letting go and moving on is often what makes us stronger and happier.

10. Choose to embrace the next step in your life. – You can hold on to the past, or you can create your own happiness today. Never let success get to your head and never let failure get to your heart. Every day is a new beginning and a new ending. Embrace it, make the best of it, smile, and keep looking straight ahead. And don’t forget, a smile doesn’t always mean a person is happy right now; sometimes it simply means they are strong enough to face their problems going forward.

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29

SPOTLIGHT

ROSEMARY CALIGIURI:

Let Me Show You W hat I Can Do

By Lisa Walters

30 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

I

t’s no doubt that women are complex creatures, yet the ones that learn to trust themselves and take risks, often turn out to be the most successful. After speaking with Rosemary Caligiuri about her professional journey, I felt immediately connected to her and understood why she is this issues Local Living Woman Spotlight.

In 1981, Rosemary graduated with a Bachelors of Science in Nursing. She spent the remaining years of her twenties caring for patients in high risk, life and death situations. Rosemary was comfortable taking on the intense responsibility of her patients care, and was quite content with her career in nursing. Although she often found herself getting the same questions from patients and their families during their difficult stay in the hospital- How long will insurance cover the bill? How are we going to pay for this?

In her downtime, Rosemary began reading financial magazines to educate herself and find answers to her patient’s questions. She became frustrated, as one magazine’s advice would contradict another. A seeker of knowledge, Rosemary signed up for night classes and cut back to part-time with her nursing shifts, as she allowed her new passion to bloom.

In 1989, she left the health field and began selling life and disability insurance for a financial company.

At the time, she was a female in a male dominated career. It took some time for people to take her seriously, but she didn’t let that slow her down.

Her motto: Get out of my way; let me show you what I can do. And that attitude is what continued to fuel her climb to the top.

After several years working for a financial firm, Rosemary realized that she enjoyed what she was doing but not the agenda she was doing it for.

Selling things to her clients, which were best for benefiting the business rather than the customers,

didn’t settle well with her. In addition to feeling unsatisfied in the work place, her first marriage was ending. During this difficult time, Rosemary decided to take a huge leap of faith and start her own financial company. Aren’t women fantastic?

When everything seems to come crashing down, we find a way to climb that mountain and come out stronger on the other side.

In 1993, Rosemary decided to open an independent office and started Harvest Group Financial Services, which has become a successful financial company built on tailoring results and investments for each of their individual clients’ needs.

Rosemary may no longer be a nurse, but she has never stopped taking care of people… she just does it in a different way now. Yes, decades ago individuals Rosemary encountered at work were referred to as “patients”, now they are “clients”, but the one thing that has stayed consistent is her ability to listen, problem solve, and help those in need. Knowledge is power. Rosemary attributes the success of her business to her ability to advocate and educate her clients, so that they too are empowered with knowledge. These character traits are why so many have learned to trust and successfully invested their money with Harvest Group Financial Services.

Thank you, Rosemary Caligiuri, for being an outstanding example of a woman of strength, inner beauty, and perseverance.

Rosemary G. Caligiuri (dba Harvest Group) is a registered representative offering securities and advisory services through Centaurus Financial Inc., Member FINRA and SIPC, a registered investment advisor.

Supervisory Branch: 3902 State Street, Suite 101, Santa Barbara, CA 93105, 1.888.569.1982. Harvest Group Financial Services and Centaurus Financial are not affiliated.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

31

JUST THE TIPS

HOME STRETCH: What To Do After Your Offer Has Been Accepted

BY LAUREN CRONMILLER After your offer has been accepted, it is time to hit the ground running. Everything from this point forward moves quickly and simultaneously. Your realtor should inform you about your timeline.

Time is of the essence and some items must be done within certain time restraints. Day 1 starts after all parties have agreed and signed off. For example, if you submit an offer on Tuesday and negotiate terms until Friday, all parties sign and initial the new terms

by Saturday, day 1 starts on Sunday. Below are some of the items that are time sensitive. Keeping within the time line is crucial. If you default on the time line, you are at risk of losing your deposit money.

A mortgage application is sometimes required with the pre-approval. If it is not, this must occur within 5 days of the accepted agreement.

A second deposit is not always necessary. However, most offers usually have a second deposit due within 5-20 days. This is dependent on when you have scheduled settlement.

All inspections must be ordered, completed, and replied to within a certain amount of days. When replying to the home inspection it is very important to not nickel and dime the sellers with a laundry list of repairs. I have been on the selling end when the buyer replied with a long list of items and requested things be purchased that never came with the 7 year old house. Needless to say my sellers were extremely upset and it made the settlement table extremely awkward. Ask for items that are important to you.

You may know a professional that can help you and that you trust more than whom the seller would hire to complete the work. If this is the case, ask for mon-

ies in a seller assist or off the sale price of the home to repair the item. If all parties can compromise, everyone will come out a winner.

An appraisal must be ordered. When you give your lender the accepted agreement of sale to start the loan process, he will set up an appraisal. I know some people will wait until after the home inspection to order an appraisal. After all, why pay for an appraisal on a home if the inspection went horribly and you are no longer purchasing the home? This may not be possible in some cases. If you are planning on a 30- day settlement, you will not be able to settle on time if you hold off on the appraisal. If your settlement is 60 days away, you may be able to complete the inspections first and then order an appraisal. Ask your realtor and lender so you can stay within the contract.

Always remember to not open any new credit cards, buy any new big-ticket items, or do anything else that will affect your debt to income ratio.

Important dates: Mortgage application if applicable_______________ Inspection__________________________________ 2nd Deposit ________________________________ Mortgage Commitment _______________________ Settlement Date _____________________________ Lauren Cronmiller is a real estate agent for the Cronmiller Team at Keller Williams Real Estate in Doylestown. She has been a realtor since 2006 receiving Philadelphia’s 5 Star Real Estate Agent award for the past 4 years. Lauren can be reached at her office 215-340-5700, always on her cell phone 215-870-2398, or through email lmcronmiller@gmail.com.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

33

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• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

35

If

Lunchboxes

By Judi Thompson

Could Talk

I

have a love-hate relationship with my children’s lunch boxes, an ongoing dilemma since kindergarten. All my kids like different drinks, no one wants crust on their sandwich, egg salad smells, tuna makes the bread soggy, the grapes get squished, the cookies crumble… the list goes on and on.

So what do I feed them? How do I keep it healthy without ruining the bread or the fruit? How do I keep from banging my head against the wall? School had only been in session for a short time and I was frustrated with making lunch after the first day. In all honesty, I wanted to throw any old thing together, quickly zipper up the lunch box before it can mock me, and send the kids on their way. But somehow that just doesn’t feel right.

Judi’s quick tips to keep lunch healthy, easy, affordable, and good for the environment: 1. Reusable sandwich, snack bags, and/or Bento boxes are a fun, green alternative.

BPA free only!

2. Look for “Reduce Waterweek” bottles for kids. These are BPA free, screw cap bottles to use your own healthy beverage. All available on Amazon.com 3. Most grocery stores have their own organic brands of juices and snacks.

Seriously consider these as a substitute for items that contain dyes and preservatives.

I finally had to sit down and think about this. I wanted to look at it from a different view. What does lunch mean to my children? What do their lunch boxes represent to them? What is really going into the boxes?

Food yes, but I recently read the quote “Into a child’s lunchbox, go a mother’s thoughts”. This made me take pause and wonder what the lunch boxes would say if they could talk.

I think they would tell me they’re a vehicle for carrying a little piece of home back and forth each day.

They would describe the eagerness with which the kids dive into their sandwich, fruit, and pickle with big smiles because I took time to de-crust the bread, give them cookies (crumbled or not), and put the grapes in a container to stop the squishing. I think they would tell me that even though I can’t be with my babies in person, they are standing guard each day filled with nourishment, a little sweetness, a favorite drink, and most importantly, a little taste of home.

Yes, if lunch boxes could talk, that’s what they would say.

Judi Thompson is a mom, wife, writer, cancer survivor, business owner and health coach, and has recently discovered a new relationship with lunch making. You can email her at judithompson64@gmail.com or visit her online cafe for more healthy tips at judithompson.com

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

37

Cool Weather

Comforting Soups and Stews

By Michelle Welliver

T

he cooler autumn air inspires me to concoct scrumptious soups and stews, chockfull of hearty ingredients that warm my family from the inside out. Brimming with an array of satisfying textures and flavors, each bowlful is guaranteed to delight their palates! Here are some of my favorites to keep you cozy this season…

Pumpkin Velvet Soup

2 – 15 oz. cans pumpkin 1 qt. chicken stock 1 c. half-and-half 1 shallot, minced ¼ c. molasses 2 tbsp. butter 1 tsp. pumpkin pie spice 1 tsp. salt ¼ teaspoon cayenne pepper Stir together all ingredients in a large stockpot over low heat and simmer about 10 minutes. Serve warm.

Rustic Butternut Squash and Chicken Stew

1 ½ lb. butternut squash, peeled, seeded & chopped into half-inch pieces 3 ½ cups chicken broth 1 ½ lb. boneless, skinless chicken thighs 1 tbsp. olive oil 1 medium yellow onion, finely chopped ½ tsp. kosher salt 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 ½ tsp dried oregano 1 can (14 oz.) petite diced tomatoes 2/3 c. uncooked quinoa ¾ c. black beans Ground black pepper, to taste Steam butternut squash until barely tender, about 10 minutes. Remove half of squash pieces and set aside. Steam remaining squash until very tender, an additional 4 to 6 minutes, then mash with the back of a fork and set aside.

38 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

In a large pot over medium-high heat, bring chicken broth to a simmer. Add chicken thighs, cover, and cook about 15 minutes or until cooked through. Transfer chicken thighs to a plate and let cool. Pour broth into a medium-sized bowl. Return the pot to the stovetop, lowering heat to medium. Add olive oil and onion, cooking until onion is starting to brown, about 10 minutes. Add the salt, garlic and oregano. Cook, stirring, for 1 additional minute. Add tomatoes, black beans, butternut squash pieces, and mashed butternut squash, stirring to combine. Stir in reserved chicken broth and quinoa. Bring to a simmer, cover and cook until the quinoa turns translucent, about 15 minutes.

Shred chicken with a fork and stir with pepper into the stew, simmering uncovered for about 5 minutes. Serve with warm rolls or bread.

Comforting Chicken Cordon Bleu Soup 6 c. water 3 tbsp. chicken bouillon granules 2 tbsp. unsalted butter 1 tsp. onion powder 1 tsp. garlic powder 1 tsp. poultry seasoning 1 tsp. kosher salt ½ tsp. black pepper 1 lb. boneless, skinless chicken breast, cooked and diced 2 cup ham chunks 1 c. all-purpose flour 3 c. milk 3 medium russet potatoes, peeled and diced 12 oz. shredded Swiss cheese 1 ½ c. garlic croutons 1 tbsp. fresh parsley, chopped In large pot, over medium-high heat, add water, bouillon, butter and all seasonings. Cover and bring to a boil. Add potatoes and chicken to soup mixture. Stir to combine and cover. In a sealable container combine flour and milk. Seal tightly and shake vigorously. Slowly pour the mixture into broth, stirring constantly. Add cheese and ham chunks and stir. Cover and reduce heat to simmer. Cook for 15 minutes, stirring frequently. Serve with fresh parsley and garlic croutons.

Savory Autumn Beef Stew

12 small red potatoes, halved 1 lb. carrots, cut into 1-inch pieces 1 large onion, cut into wedges 2 lbs. beef stew meat, cut into 1-inch cubes 1/3 c. butter 1 tbsp. all-purpose flour 1 c. water 1 tsp. salt 1 tsp. dried parsley flakes ½ tsp. celery seed ½ tsp. dried thyme 1/8 teaspoon pepper Place potatoes, carrots and onion in a 5-qt. crockpot. In a large skillet, brown beef in butter. Transfer beef to crockpot with slotted spoon. Stir flour into the pan drippings until blended; cook and stir until browned. Gradually add water to pan. Bring to a boil and cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened. Add all seasonings and pour over beef.

Cover and cook on low for 8-9 hours or until meat and vegetables are tender.

Michelle Welliver finds passion as a writer, photographer, cake artist, runner, and mother. She currently resides in Quakertown, Pennsylvania with her husband and three children.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

39

The Forty Year-Old Version Confessions Of a House Husband: Challenging Traditional Gender Roles In the Home

By Kenny Spaulding

L

ike many in my age group, I was brought up with the male/female categorization of chores. Actually, if I recall correctly, all of the chores were dumped on the kids. We used to think it was the only reason that we were conceived. Decades ago, most families operated on a single income, with stay at home moms managing the homes. Men were not expected to help with the cooking, cleaning, and laundry as much, if at all.

These days, both parents are working, which means we are all too beat to handle the home without some form of teamwork.

I thought that I would share the somewhat unconventional division of household labor that my wife and I normally employ. First, let me clarify the title of this article. I do have an actual job, and my wife has her own home-based business. Her work is infinitely more physically taxing than mine, and my days are book ended with a nearly hour-long commute. I am the main cook in our home. I also do the weekly food shopping and the brunt of the laundry and cleaning. (Though my wife is quite a bit better at the cleaning. As most of us are aware, men do not clean under things, we clean around

them.) These duties have been traditionally regarded as “women’s work”, and my family and I laugh about it sometimes referring to dad as “The House Wife.”

Aside from mowing the lawn, my wife performs nearly all of the outdoor work, which has traditionally been associated with the man of the house.

Here’s the rub. We have this division of labor for a few reasons, but the main one is that these are the duties that we enjoy. After forty years on this earth, my credentials for masculinity have been firmly established. I simply like cooking, grocery shopping and doing laundry. My wife likes working outdoors.

As for cleaning… neither one of us like that, but it still needs to get done. To divide labor in the home based on traditional ideas of what is masculine and feminine is beyond silly.

My wife and I do not have the perfect marriage, but we do have a very strong one, built on the concepts of being best friends and equal members of a life-long team. Keeping up with the house is hard enough for full time workers without doing things you can’t stand doing. Why not make chores less of a chore by doing the things you enjoy rather than the things that tradition says you should do?

Kenny is a freelance writer, lifelong professional musician, and has just completed his first full-length novel.

He lives in a loving home in Bethlehem, PA with his amazing wife, incomparable son, and three love muffin doggies.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

41

Going Back to School as a Mom: 10 Tips That Can Help You Succeed

By Lori Johnston

C

ollege can be a terrifying concept for moms trying to balance a marriage, kids, work, and day-to-day activities. But with more and more mothers taking advantage of online learning to hit the books when the kids are asleep, it is a new reality.

Here are 10 tips that can help Mom manage a busy work, family, and school schedule and bring home a report card their kids will be proud of.

1. I love breakfast in bed, but a college degree is the best present.

Share with your family that letting you pursue a

42 • LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

college degree is a great way they can show their love for you. If you share how vital they are to your quest for a degree, they will realize they have a stake in the process -- and maybe they’ll offer to do the dishes while you’re doing homework.

2. Hiding from kids to finish 30-page paper due tomorrow!

Illnesses, babysitter cancellations, and other unscheduled events can cut into your time to complete assignments. Reassure your kids that you love them, but you need to focus on school at certain points during the day. Being the best student possible can be one of your best moves as a mom.

3. Family time over, now onto schoolwork.

School shouldn’t make you miss important events in your family’s life. Attend the birthday parties, sporting events, school concerts, and enjoy those summer and spring break vacations. But carve out time to keep on top of your studies (or to catch up as needed) well in advance of an important assignment or test. Many moms find that the wee hours of the morn’, during baby’s nap time, or when the laundry is soaking and dinner is in the slow cooker is the ideal (and only!) study time. Thanks to online learning, moms are logging on and learning when and where it works for them.

4. Hanging out w/other student moms!

Realize that you are not alone. Some schools offer organized students groups for moms and other adult learners, or you can start one up yourself. The friendships and support you receive from these groups can be essential throughout college, especially when you feel as if you won’t survive another day, let alone another semester.

5. Meeting today w/ college counselor for help.

Seek academic support/student advisers who can help you determine the best way to complete assignments and carve out time to study. Their job is to help you succeed! Just like you want your kids to come to you with challenges, these advisers are standing at the ready to assist!

6. Homework while parked, waiting to pick up my little one @school, then soccer.

Even brief periods of time -- 15 minutes in the car line at school, or during your kids’ many after-school activities -- can be beneficial for reading your textbook or flipping through note cards for test preparation. The key to a successful scholastic stint as a mom is making the most of all your time.

7. Big test tomorrow ... hubby handling bath time.

Whether it’s keeping the children occupied the day before a big assignment is due, or handling routine tasks like bath time, ask your spouse for support so you can complete a paper or finish a class project.

Remind him that the teamwork will pay off when you start your new career and bring home the bigger bucks.

8. Join me for study session?

Reach out to fellow students virtually, providing a way for you and your classmates to help each other better understand the course material and provide much-needed encouragement during stressful times. Take the initiative to set up a smaller study group online. You can create a Facebook group page where you and fellow students can post questions, provide words of support, and even vent. Or set up a smaller chat room with a couple of study buddies. Embrace the ability to connect via the Internet and see how it will enrich your college experience.

9. Must have coffee! #AllNighterFuel A good night’s sleep is rare for many moms, but try to get at least more than a couple of hours of sleep so that you’re alert and awake during a particularly heated online discussion or a big test. Caffeine may become your crutch, but plan to scale back once you get that diploma.

10. Excited about first A on exam!

Go ahead and post that grade on the fridge along with your kids’ artwork and report cards. And don’t be afraid to share your accomplishments with friends and strangers on Facebook and Twitter. The virtual encouragement could give you a boost to keep on bringing home those As.

• LOCAL LIVING WOMAN •

43

Caring ForYour

4. Tweezers Clean your tweezers after every use. Swipe the ends of your tweezers with a cotton ball soaked in rubbing alcohol or peroxide, then rinse them well to get rid of all the chemicals.

By Whitney Coy

5. Powder puff If you use a puff to powder your face, you’re probably also applying dirt, bacteria, sweat and much more every time you pat your face. You should wash your powder puff at least once a week. Wet it with warm water and apply a small drop of shampoo. Work up a lather, then rinse it well and let it air dry.

Beauty Products

Y

ou clean your home until it shines, but how often do you clean the beauty tools that touch your face everyday? Clean your beauty products often to make sure you aren’t transferring dirt, grime and bacteria to your face. You work hard to keep that face looking gorgeous, so don’t let dirty products work against you.

1. Makeup brushes A good makeup brush lasts for years, but you definitely shouldn’t go that long without washing it. Your makeup brushes need to be washed at least once a week, and more if you have sensitive skin or notice frequent breakouts. It’s easy to do — simply wet the brushes, gently lather them up with shampoo, then rinse until the water runs clear. Let them air dry by standing them up in a glass with the bristles facing up, or by laying them on the sink with the bristles hanging over the edge. When you notice your makeup brushes are starting to look a bit shaggy, it’s time to replace them.

2. Jarred products If you use jarred lotions, creams and makeup, avoid using your finger for application. Every time you stick your finger in that jar, you’re depositing whatever grime is on your finger right into your product.

Instead, use a mini-spatula or a cotton swab to remove the product you need.

3. Eyelash curler Your eyelash curler gets very close to your eyes, so make sure you keep it clean. Once or twice a month, lather it up with liquid hand soap and water then rinse. If you still notice makeup buildup, rub it with a cotton ball soaked in makeup remover. After the makeup has been removed, wash it with soap and water again. Pay attention to both the padded area and the metal portion of the tool. Dry it with a clean towel, then let it sit out for a few hours to make sure it gets completely dry.

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6. Hair brush Your hair brush picks up dirt, oils, flakes of dead skin and tons of other crud every time you brush your hair. To clean it, start by pulling out all of the strands of hair caught in the bristles. If you can’t get them all, use a comb to dig out the ones that are stuck. Fill your sink up with warm soapy water — you can use shampoo or dish soap. Swish the brush around in the water and rinse it until the water runs clear. Let it air dry flat on the edge of the sink, with the bristled end hanging over the sink.

7. Mascara You should replace your mascara every four months, whether or not you’ve used it all. Since your mascara wand comes in direct contact with your lashes then goes right back in the mascara, it’s a breeding ground for bacteria. If you want to clean your wand every now and then, you can do so with liquid hand soap and warm water, but keep in mind that isn’t a substitute for replacing it when you should.

8. Lip liner and eyeliner The liners that twist up may be convenient, but they don’t do anything for your complexion. Purchase the liners that need to be sharpened and sharpen them before each use to remove all of the dirt and bacteria left on the tip.

9. Lotions, shampoo, conditioner and shower gel These items can have shelf lives of up to two or three years, but improper storage can cut that time drastically. Keep your lotion, shampoo, conditioner and shower gels in cool areas and away from direct sunlight. Too much heat can make them sweat, separate and lose effectiveness.

local woman stars VIRGO – August 24 through September 22 Financial and romantic relationships are benefiting from excellent conversations, negotiations, and finding ways to compromise and to create a sense of security in the relationships. At times, your financial goals are clashing with your playtime activities, luxury shopping, or date nights. But at other times, you are able to bargain hunt and find some excellent deals. You will just need to be mindful of when to spurge and when to hold off.

LIBRA – September 23 through October 23 You and your romantic, social, or business partner began experiencing quite a bit of fun, profits, and/or good luck while socializing, or working on Internet, team, or group oriented activities. This month you still have plenty of that going on, but now the two of you are also getting along with extended family, neighbors, and community members. The two of you are rather popular, persuasive, and clever as far as everyone else is concerned. You make quite the pair.

SCORPIO – October 24 through November 22 This month is a bit of a hodgepodge. At various times, you have excellent professional, social, financial, and community-oriented opportunities. The annoying things still happen, but not as intensely as they were a few months ago and they are mostly overshadowed by the good times. Your people skills are especially fine-tuned and you are even more persuasive than usual. This is helpful in all kinds of areas of your life.

SAGITTARIUS – November 23 through December 21 You end up with a bit of a tug of war between work and home, but it is your social life that really has your attention. You are fun to hang out with and an excellent team player. This is also an excellent time for Internet activities and networking projects.

And yet, as you juggle work, home, and social obligations, your heart is mostly interested in playtime activities, creative pursuits, hobbies, loved ones, travel, cultural studies, and intelligent things that will broaden your horizon. You could find you are aching for a sense of adventure even if it is just a journey of the mind taken online or at your local library or bookstore.

CAPRICORN – December 22 through January 20 Your social life, home life, and career are all busy with a lot of good things happening.

Yes, there is the occasional argument or challenge, but mostly you are just running around like crazy as you juggle all of the exciting and productive developments in your life. You manage to find time to continue learning and exploring new ways of seeing the world too. And all the while, you are finding ways to funnel more romantic and/ or financial security into your home life too.

AQUARIUS – January 21 through February 18 Political, legal, cultural, religious, academic, travel, and/or media related challenges are causing some headaches this month.

People are argumentative know-it-alls.

There are a number of times when it seems as if everything that can go wrong will go wrong within these topics. But the good news is that you are still doing really well financially, professionally, romantically, and socially. So, just remember to step away from the intellectual battles and enjoy the rest of your life from time to time.

PISCES – February 19 through March 20 You and a partner or rival are disagreeing about something. However, the two of you are able to find diplomatic solutions and you could even have some fun while opening your minds to learning new things together. You also have some excellent opportunities to work towards achieving your financial, fitness, leadership, and professional goals.

ARIES – March 21 through April 20 This is a good month for working towards your financial, professional, and leadership goals. All three are in sync at various points this month. You also have a huge amount of playful and adventurous energy promoting the idea that you should love what you do or at least make sure that you schedule plenty of playtime into your life.

TAURUS – April 21 through May 21 You are more interested in your romantic and financial partnerships at this time.

Things appear to be going fairly well within these types of partnerships too. You are in the mood to bond with a loved one and to focus on what it is that entertains the two of you. However, you also have an opportu-

nity to launch some kind of a project, goal, or new beginning within your professional life or fitness routine. By all means, spend your time romancing and whispering sweet nothings, but try to also make time for this big project that you are going to enjoy.

GEMINI – May 22 through June 21 Things are going much better at work now that all of last month’s drama has ended.

You are able to get a lot accomplished and win the respect of your peers. Next month, it should be even better. For all of your productivity and great work ethic, do not forget to take some time out for playtime this month. You have a small handful of planets moving through the area of your chart that encourages you to kick up your heels and have fun. If you did not get to slip away for a vacation earlier this year, you might want to at least make sure that you have some good times planned for nights and weekends when you are away from the office.

CANCER – June 22 through July 22 For over a year, Uranus was trapped in battle from within your success and leadership sector in which he could not help you to shine as the uniquely talented, clever, and creative person that you are. Now that the battle is once again on hiatus, he is able to work with both your personal wealth sector and your productivity sector to help begin making progress again. You are also experiencing a lovely balance between work and playtime.

LEO – July 23 through August 23 Two areas of your chart are lighting up with positive activity. One is the area involving your ability to get along with local friends and family and includes all of those lovely electronic gadgets that we love as well as your ability to bargain hunt, negotiate, communicate, and get yourself around town.

The other area that is beginning to show some good news is the area of your chart that governs happiness, playtime, hobbies, luxuries, and spending time with lovers, children, pets, and others that are dear to your heart. You might want to consider getting an early jump-start on your holiday shopping. Or just start planning to spend more time having fun at local gatherings. If you haven’t already done so, it is not too late for you to sneak away for vacation.

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47

ON THE SPOT WITH LOCAL LIVING WOMAN MAGAZINE American actress Kat Dennings, born Katherine Litwack in Bryn Mawr, Pennsylvania, is probably most famous for portraying the semi-sarcastic indie-music-loving Norah Silverberg in the 2008 nocturnal teen romance film Nick & Norah’s Infinite Playlist.

The youngest among five home-schooled siblings, Kat knew at an early age that all she wanted was to become an actress.

Although she wasn’t allowed to watch television as a kid, she got fixated on Marilyn Monroe and watching movies from the moment she could talk. Not to be swayed by discouraging remarks from an acting class teacher and initially, even her own parents, Dennings persevered and pursued her passion for acting.

10 Things You Didn’t Know About Kat Dennings 1. At 14, she finished her schooling, skipped acting training altogether, and made her television debut in an episode of HBO’s hit comedy Sex and the City (2000).

2. She doesn’t drink and she doesn’t smoke.

Furthermore, she isn’t interested in surrounding herself with people who do.

3. On September 19, 2011, Dennings appeared on CBS in the sitcom “2 Broke Girls.” Starring as Max, one of the main characters, she immediately won critical praise for her sharp wit and sarcastic delivery.

4. Dennings said she is nerdy, and not even nerdy in a cool way. She stated, “I don’t even go to parties ever. I just stay home, I knit, and I watch movies.”

5. Considering her role in the “Thor” movies, it shouldn’t come as much of a surprise that Dennings is a comic book geek.

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6. She is a great role model, and proof that you can land roles in Hollywood blockbusters even if you aren’t a size zero.

7. Dennings loves to blog, and you can see some of her work on hellogiggles.com. She even draws her own cute sketches.

8. She loves to write articles and interact with people through social media. She has an official Twitter account that she maintains herself.

9. She is very serious about womens rights and is very outspoken about her beliefs.

10. Kat Dennings is beautiful, successful, and a complete nerd. There are so many reasons to love her and her work, and thanks to the success of “2 Broke Girls,” she has become a regular on television screens across the world.

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