McKinney Woman Magazine Sep/Oct06

Woman home | health | beauty | fashion | art

September/October 2006

Cover Girl Lasharndra Barbarin Chief Operating Officer McKinney Medical Center

Fall for Jackets

A Must for This Season’s Wardrobe

The Power of One

Surfing for Love

12 Solo Activities for Women

The Online Dating Trend

Kathryn Heard Craig

Victorian Visionary PRSRT STD U.S.POSTAGE PAID McKinney, TX Permit No 146

Residential Customer McKinney, TX

Editor’s Note Ladies, when was the last time you did something fun or special for yourself without having to check everyone else’s calendar?

You probably can’t remember. There’s no doubt that indulging ourselves (which can be as simple as finding alone time) doesn’t make the priority list. After we manage the kids, the job, the home, and the family’s extracurricular activities, there isn’t much time for our own interests. The truth of the matter is that there will never be…….unless we make the time by penciling ourselves in as we do all other tasks. The fall issue of McKinney Woman offers great ideas on solo adventures for ALL women on page 26. In addition to attending a wine tasting or taking a dance lesson, or even learning to scuba dive, you can have your own portrait made. Not only will it boost your confidence, it’ll remind your significant other how beautiful you still are.

McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

After you’ve decided how you want to spend your “me” time, find out about the many uses of the season’s orange gourd – the pumpkin. Try our diverse recipes on page 21 including cozy pumpkin soup, pumpkin fudge, spiced pumpkin pudding and put your pumpkin to good use!

Also, discover the hottest fashion trends this fall on page 30 with the dexterity of the JACKET! Whether you’re planning an important business meeting or a whimsical night on the town, the jacket is your answer to being fashionably fresh.

Have fun this fall by making “me” time AND do it in style!

Sincerely,

Vanessa Ximenez

www.mckinneywoman.com

mckinneywomancontents September/October 2006 issue 02

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Cover Girl Lasharndra Barbarin Cover Photo by Wendolin Mercado Photography. www.wendolin.com

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Cover Makeup provided by Sharla’s. foundation – Perfect Glo, eye shadows – La de da, Day Dream, and Tinsel, blush – Sweet Cheeks, lips – Flirt Lipstick and Lipslides Gloss. All makeup by Paula Dorf. Applied by special guest and renowned makeup artist – Ricardo Gutierrez.

Cover Clothes provided by Urban Allye Necklace handmade by Seasonal Whispers of Soho, NY $183.00. Earrings handmade by Anabella of Dallas, TX $65.00. Solf Gold Suiting by Trina Turk, Lily Blazer $313.00, Lydia Pant $189.00.

Modal Cami by Charlotte Tarrantola $40.00 Temptation Lurex Ring Cami by Charlotte Tarrantola $74.00

Publisher/Editor: Vanessa Ximenez

editor@mckinneywoman.com

Art Director: Marlina Rahman

designs@mckinneywoman.com

FEATURES

Contributing Writers:

10 Kathryn Heard Craig

22 Pilates

Victorian visionary

14 Surfing for Love

Find your love online

16 Skin Saver

Keeping it healthy

20 Jack-O-Lantern for All Trades

Put your pumpkin to good use

An ancient practice still strong today

24 Ready for Work?

10 Tips to successfully re-enter the workforce with a job you love

26 The Power of One

12 Solo adventure for women

30 Fall for Jackets

A must for this season’s wardrobe

Jacqueline Bodnar Wendy Burt Wendy Crooks Lorie Fangio Gina Roberts-Grey Barbara Johnson Karen Link Deborah Mitchell Rene Teague Osuna Tamara Paquée

MWM Advisory Board: Dr. Carrie Alfieri Pinnacle Eye Associates

Dr. Tracey Banks

North Central Women’s Health Partners

Carrie Garner Galleria D’Art

Dr. Judith Graves Clinic Esthetica

Dr. Donna Kobrin

Chiropractic Wellness Center

Karen Link

Ebby Halliday Realtors

McKinneyWoman

808 S. College St., Suite 112 McKinney, TX 75069 972.547.6261 www.mckinneywoman.com

Today’s Successful Woman

Lasharndra Barbarin

By Deborah Mitchell

T

oday’s successful cover girl is a vital part of our city’s growing medical community. The Medical Center of McKinney (MCM) is fortunate to have Sharn Barbarin as its Chief Operating Officer (COO), guiding the hospital into a new era of growth and service. In the four years she’s been COO, Barbarin has helped turn the hospital around from a small-town rural facility to a full-service acute care urban hospital.

One of the projects she’s most proud of is a new addition: a fourth floor with 44 private beds. “This will give us the opportunity to tailor our care to each individual patient,” says Barbarin. “The rooms will be loaded with VIP amenities similar to a hotel.” The fourth floor is scheduled to open for patient care in March of 2007. With Ms. Barbarin’s guidance, the hospital’s metamorphosis has included other important projects to improve and enhance medical services for our city.

“When I first started here, we had a very small ICU, and we didn’t offer open-heart surgery,” Barbarin notes.

Patients who required open-heart surgery were careflighted to other hospitals. “We identified that as a need and found quality staff and physicians.” The hospital now offers open-heart surgery for its patients, saving precious time that patients would have spent traveling.

McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

Calee Travis, Chief Nursing Officer at MCM, says that under Barbarin’s leadership, “MCM’s radiology department has made huge strides in improving and acquiring the latest in radiological diagnostic equipment.” Recently, the hospital acquired a 64-Slice CT Scanner, a machine that became known as the “Oprah Scan” after it was featured on an Oprah program for heart healthiness for women.

The 64-Slice instantly produces sharp, clear, 3-D images of any organ in the body. “People would call here and ask, ‘Do you have the Oprah scan?’” Barbarin says. She is proud that MCM is the only facility within a fifteen mile radius that offers this service. “We’re fortunate to have that technology here in McKinney.”

Since Ms. Barbarin has joined the team, the hospital has also added a Level 2 Neonatal ICU. In the past, if a newborn needed intensive care services, the baby had to be careflighted to another hospital. This meant the mother and child had to be separated. “Now, we offer this service,” Barbarin says, “and they can receive the care they need right here.” In August, the neonatal ICU celebrated its first annual preemie reunion. Not only has Barbarin helped McKinney’s hospital physically grow into a superior facility, she took on the challenge as COO four years ago knowing that the hospital suffered from image issues in the community. “That was one of the things that challenged me about taking this position,” said Barbarin. “What could I offer in reshaping our reputation and how we provided care to patients and their families?”

Ms. Barbarin’s kindness is evident. She believes that one patient encounter at a time is the answer. “Sharn is an incredibly dynamic and talented person,” says Ms. Travis.

“She truly cares about the hospital and the people that we serve in the community.” www.mckinneywoman.com

“I always tell anyone I know that, if you come to hospital, please give me a call. I want to make sure everyone is treated as a VIP,” Barbarin says. “We recognize that we have a history to overcome, but our vision is to be our community’s provider of choice.” Barbarin says her job is rewarding. She likes working with the staff in making decisions that have an impact on the quality of care our community receives. “I think we’ve done a lot of good things here at the facility.

At the end of the day, our patients are better off for it.”

Smart and unassuming, Ms. Barbarin grew up in Baton Rouge, Louisiana. She received her undergraduate degree from Louisiana State University, and earned a Masters of Health Administration (MHA) from Tulane University.

Barbarin has always had a strong family network. “Both of my parents have been phenomenal forces in my life,” she says. In September, her father will retire as a field manager for an Exxon chemical plant. Her mother teaches middle-school in Baton Rouge. “She and my husband are my best friends,” says Barbarin.

For the past nine years, Barbarin has been married to her college sweetheart. Before that, they dated for six years. “We know each other’s faults and strengths,” she laughs. “We work well together. I would not be able to do this without my husband.”

The couple has two boys, Court-

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land, 3, and Brice, 1. Like every mom who finds herself away from the family, Barbarin deals with mother’s guilt.

But she’s found that being a mother has forced her to have better work/life balance. Most of her free time is spent with her boys, taking them to their new favorite spot, The Zone. For adult time, Barbarin and her husband enjoy Poppy’s, one of McKinney’s popular downtown restaurants.

On top of being a busy, working mom, Barbarin still finds time to volunteer. As a child, she was often involved with youth activities at the YMCA. “The YMCA really benefits children,” she says. In addition to the activities that encourage adults to be healthy, a lot of the programming focuses on children and on teaching values. Now, she makes a difference by being a board member for McKinney’s YMCA.

What does Barbarin like best about McKinney? “McKinney is a great place to be homesick: the uniqueness of the square, the growth and development….and the great school system,” notes Barbarin. She and her husband like the number of young families in the area and the availability of so many services right here in our town. McKinney is fortunate to have Sharn Barbarin, too, working to make our community hospital one of the best.

Deborah Mitchell is a freelance writer in the North Texas area.

Photos by Wendolin Mercado

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

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September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

Kathryn Heard Craig Victorian Visionary

By Barbara Johnson

The Heard-Craig Center for the Arts celebrated its 35th year of service to women and the community in August. The success of the organization has only been possible because of the brilliance, generosity and vision of a remarkable woman.

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

Kathryn Heard Craig (1884-1970) was an author, artist, and philanthropist who left behind a legacy that few ever achieve. Katie, as she preferred to be called, lived her life by the words “to those whom much is given, much is required.” A friend described her as a “sweet-spoken, genteel loving person, always a lady.”

She could always be counted on to volunteer at her church (First Presbyterian), provide food for the sick, and to offer comfort to friends and strangers alike. She gave of her time, talent and pocketbook without any need for recognition or adulation.

Kathryn Heard Craig was a visionary and she was so convinced of the power of women’s clubs for women individually and for the community that she conceived of the idea of the Heard-Craig Woman’s Club Trust in 1955. It was her wish that upon her death, her family home would become a “club house” for use by the women’s clubs of McKinney. She felt that if she could provide a permanent meeting place for the women’s clubs that they would continue to flourish and provide immeasurable opportunities for their members.

The women of Katie’s generation, growing up in the late 1800’s, had limited educational opportunities.

It was unusual for most of these women to have the opportunity to attend college. Katie was fortunate to have parents who believed that women should be educated. She and her cousins, Bessie and Nina Heard, attended Mary Baldwin Seminary (College) in Staunton, Virginia from 1902 - 1905.

Most women of the Heard girl’s generation joined the women’s clubs of the time in order to further their education. The clubs were based on the study programs of the Chautauqua Institute in Chautauqua, New York. Their purpose was primarily educational or literary in nature.

Many of the

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clubs soon became involved in programs for community improvement. The women raised money to build libraries, provided schools with books and completed civic beautification projects. By 1915, more than 3,000,000 women in America were club members. The clubs have not only enhanced their communities through service projects, but they have enhanced the lives of American women by providing educational enlightenment, social camaraderie, a greater sense of self worth and achievement.

Katie’s dream was to provide a facility that would encourage the “education and enlightenment� of women and appreciation of the arts. She spent the last 15 years of her life planning for the establishment of the Heard-Craig Woman’s Club Trust, the organization that would go into effect upon her death. When she passed in 1970 the seven women who would form the first board of trustees had already been appointed. The Heard-Craig Woman’s Club Trust received nonprofit status from the I.R.S. on August 24, 1971. Since that time more than 50,000 women have utilized the facilities for education, fellowship, and civic benevolence. There are 22 clubs and groups currently meeting in the facilities and during the past year more than 25,000 guests attended events at the Heard-Craig.

Katie’s accomplishments aren’t well known because she didn’t want or need recognition for acts that she considered her civic responsibility. She and her family believed strongly in the power of education and their philanthropy still provides educational assistance today.

The following list outlines a few of the honors she received and accomplishments she achieved: • Endowed an English Fellowship at Austin College • Endowed a Business Administration and Economics Fellowship at Austin College • Endowed a Science Fellowship at Austin College • Endowed a Dean of the Chapel at Austin College • Endowed a Professorship in the Arts at Austin College • Funded a science building at Mary Baldwin College. She later wrote to them stating that she knew it might become necessary at some time to make changes to the structure or replace it with another more modern building. She told them to do whatever they needed to do in order to provide the best possible education for their students. • Established a scholarship at Mary Baldwin College that is still available today. She asked that this be made available for women applicants from Texas with financial need or for the daughters of missionaries. • Established a scholarship fund that provided college tuition for the children of two families in McKinney. • Funded a music building at Austin College and later www.mckinneywoman.com

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provided funding for a Fine Arts wing.

She asked that the structure be named Craig Hall as a tribute to her deceased husband.

When the college asked her to pose for a portrait for the building she wrote, “I am not fully convinced that at the time other things may not be more necessary.” They continued to try to convince her and she wrote once again, “times change things and in later years the music building may be enlarged or remodeled and the Craig name or pictures will mean little to those in power.” After much persuasion she finally posed for the picture although she never really felt it was necessary.

Always ahead of her time, in 1964 at the age of 80, she wrote a letter to the president of Austin College inquiring about the math curriculum currently in place at the

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

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institution. She advised him that math majors would be very much in demand in the future as operators of electronic computers. She hoped the current curriculum would prepare the students for that eventuality.

Served three terms as a member of the Austin College Board of Trustees and was recognized with the Austin College Distinguished Service Award. The award stated, “During your tenure you maintained a record of attendance which was perfect, remarkable and commendable. In this exemplary attendance and in the diligence with which you prepared for and participated in meetings you have won the deep respect and admiration of all of the Trustees with whom you have served.”

Received the Mary Baldwin College Algernon Sullivan Award for distinguished service.

Kathryn Heard Craig would be the last person to boast of her accomplishments, but 36 years after her death, through her foresight, she continues to make significant contributions to her community.

For more information on the Heard family, tours of the Heard-Craig House are offered on Tuesday and Thursday at 2:00 p.m. and on Saturdays at 1:00, 2:00 and 3:00 p.m.

Barbara Johnson is the executive director of the Heard-Craig Center for the Arts.

www.mckinneywoman.com

Hair Care

By Rene Teague Osuna of Lagniappe Hair Design

Q&A

Q How can I keep my color more vibrant between color services?

A

Q Is it true that trimming your hair makes it grow faster?

A

Hair follicles determine the rate of hair growth, not the hair ends. Trimming hair on a regular basis keeps hair looking healthy and makes the transitions seem shorter when you choose styles for each stage.

Color attaches itself to protein in the hair. To help retain hair color, ask your stylist for a protein treatment before your color application. Follow up two weeks later with a second treatment. In addition, ask your stylist to prescribe at-home maintenance products that are free from harsh cleansers such as sulfates and salt (sodium chloride). Keep a hat on when you are out in the sun. If you are a swimmer, be sure to shampoo after you swim to remove the chemical deposited with a purifying or clarifying shampoo.

Q My hair is dryer during the summer

months even though I condition it on a regular basis. What should I do?

A

Swimming, sun, pollution, minerals, blow dryers, flat irons, and curling irons all play havoc on your hair, which causes oxidation and build up that will damage and dry hair. Regular home conditioning is not enough. Salon deep-conditioning treatments are necessary to keep hair de-mineralized and in better condition. Just as a fluoride whitening treatment by a dentist is more effective than whitening tooth paste, so is salon conditioning.

Q Why do red tones fade quicker than other colors?

A

Red molecules are the smallest of all color molecules making it easier for more color to make its way into the hair shaft. This is also the reason red is more vibrant and bold in the beginning. The negative effect is that the red color will fade faster.

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September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

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Surfing for Love

By Jacqueline Bodnar

For those who are weary of spending weekends alone, the online dating scene may just be what you need. Gone are the days of aimlessly searching the local hangouts and clubs, looking for love or companionship. Today, there are many online dating sites that match people, based on compatibility and interests.

Why Online “My thoughts are that online dating’s wide popularity is due to the lack of interest in meeting people in bars, dance clubs, fitness centers, or super grocery stores,” explains Pamela Smale Williams, a marriage and family therapist and owner of Therapist of Path Ways Counseling, located in Plano, Texas. “Online dating is like a catalog full of potentials, no different from a room full of people, but those listed online have already stated their intentions and generally have provided more information to help choose from the throngs of others.”

the ability to be able to chat back and forth before taking the leap of meeting in person. There is also the added benefit of getting to see what someone looks like, through shared pictures on the Internet. No longer does someone have to be shocked when the blind date shows up.

“Most of my clients involved in online dating have made the decision to date only someone who has posted a picture,” says Williams. “Though this might seem a superficial way of thinking about potential dates, think about it. How many folks would walk up to a person in a bar if they were not attracted to some extent physically?”

Open Communication

Playing it Safe

E-mail and online chatting are good ways to get to know someone, as they allow quick communication and a chance for people to become more comfortable. As Williams points out, there are advantages to online dating, such as

A big misconception about meeting people through this method is that they may be an axe murderer or something of the sort. While imaginations may run wild, it’s important to remember that this is not a problem unique to the Inter-

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net; anyone can be deceitful, even the seemingly wonderful person sitting at the counter in a local café.

When it comes to dating, however, there are safety precautions that must be taken, regardless of the way you meet someone. Moreover, meeting and dating someone from the Internet carries some unique concerns that should be kept in the back of one’s mind. One of the biggest downfalls of meeting people online is that those posting or answering ads or chatting in chat rooms may not be who they say they are. The Internet has provided a very easy avenue for those looking to remain anonymous or pretend to be someone they aren’t.

A good rule of thumb to follow is not to give out too much personal contact information to someone online.

Don’t share your complete name or phone number until you are comfortable and feel ready to cautiously move to that next step. Avoid the temptation to arrange a meeting before you have taken some time to get to know the person through e-mail and then over the phone. A faceto-face meeting should only occur once you feel you have spent adequate time learning about that person and feel comfortable.

When the time comes that you both want to arrange a face-to-face meeting, be sure to play it safe. Arrange that first meeting during the daytime in a public area. Be sure to

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provide your own transportation to and from the location.

Also, take the time to inform a friend or family member about who and where you are meeting.

While you may try to be careful about giving out your full name and contact information, your e-mail address just may give it away. If you have an e-mail address that consists of your first or last name, consider setting up a free e-mail account through an online service to use for your personal ad correspondence. Your first and last names are enough, in many cases, to enable someone to gain access to your address and phone number in this information age, and only you should decide when someone gets that information.

Nothing to Lose Most people agree that life is sweeter when spent with someone, and those in the market should surely consider taking advantage of these new avenues for romance or friendship. Just be sure to follow some basic safety precautions, to help reduce the chance of any problems.

“The goal, after all, is to get to know each other in person,” adds Williams. “Online dating is merely a way to start that process.”

Jacqueline Bodnar, a freelance writer, lives in Las Vegas with her husband and two children.

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

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Skin Saver Keeping it Healthy

By Deborah Mitchell

Y

our skin is your body’s biggest organ and first line of defense against the environment. Yet is also the most prone to malignancy. According to the Skin Cancer Foundation (SCF), more than 1.3 million people a year are diagnosed with skin cancer in the U.S. There are three main types: basal, squamous and melanoma, named for the skin cell type in which they originate. While the first two types are the most common cancers in the U.S., they account for less that .1% of patient cancer deaths. Melanoma, however, is the rarest but most serious of the three types.

The SCF reports that the number of new cases of this deadliest form of skin cancer is rising faster than any other type of cancer.

Cindy Safstrom, owner of That Elegant Touch Salon and Day Spa, knows professionally and personally how important it is to take care of your skin. Last November, she lost her husband, Jim, to melanoma. The American Cancer Society estimates that 62,190 new cases of melanoma will be diagnosed this year, and nearly 8,000 patients will die from the disease.

As a result of her personal and professional experiences, Ms. Safstrom takes every opportunity to teach her clients about the risks, signs and prevention of skin cancer. Employees of her salon have been trained to look for any abnormalities of the skin. Any suspicious-looking spots are pointed out so that the client can seek medical advice.

“We also have a newsletter for our clients with educational information,” says Ms. Safstrom. “A lot of it is about taking care of the skin and (skin cancer) prevention.”

Many factors contribute to the development of skin cancer, especially UV light damage from the sun, which accounts for almost 90 percent of skin cancers. Heredity, stress, complexion type, the environment and the number of previous sunburns are also risk factors. Here in Texas, we are at a particularly high risk because of the amount of sun we’re exposed to yearround and because of the reduction of ozone in the upper atmosphere. As a result, UV light is more intense than it was a

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century ago. Artificial sources of UV radiation, such as sunlamps and tanning booths, can also cause damage to the skin.

Ms. Safstrom believes that stress is the big culprit. Perhaps the best thing she does for her clients is focusing on relaxation.

“One thing I was told when Jim was going through all this is that every single person has cancer cells in their body,” says Safstrom. “It’s your immune system—how you take care of yourself, what you do - that determines whether these cancer cells are going to grow or not. Stress is a huge thing.”

Cindy Safstrom, owner of That Elegant Touch Salon and Day Spa, knows professionally and personally how important it is to take care of your skin.

The ABC’s of Suspicious Spots How do you protect yourself from skin cancer? Get to know your skin and perform a monthly self check-up in addition to annual exams by your physician. Early detection of melanoma, in particular, is vital since survival rates of patients with an early diagnosis is 98%.

Once a month, inspect your skin for any new or unusual moles, sores, browns spots or growths. The average person has between 10 and 40 moles. Most are harmless, but you should watch for any changes in size, shape, elevation, or color.

The Skin Cancer Foundation recommends the following ABCD method to inspect all areas of your skin: Asymmetry: Look for moles that have become asymmetrical (the two halves of the mole do not match).

Border Irregularity: Watch for moles or spots that have an uneven or ragged border.

Color: A spot is suspicious if it has multiple colors or shades, including brown, black, tan, red, blue or white.

Diameter: A skin growth that is larger than the size of a pencil eraser (about 6 millimeters) could indicate an abnormality.

Any new mole, sore or growth—no matter the size—should be checked by your dermatologist. A mole that itches, oozes, bleeds or becomes “crusty,” also needs to be examined immediately.

October is Cancer Awareness month. This year, Ms. Safstrom plans to donate a percentage of any salon services purchased on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays through the month of October to cancer awareness programs. That Elegant Touch also participates in the Locks of Love program, a non-profit organization that provides high-quality wigs to children suffering from hair loss due to cancer and other illnesses. Clients who donate their hair (ten-inches in length or longer) are given a free cut and style.

Prevention is your best defense against skin cancer. Know what to look for. For more information or illustrative photos of suspicious skin growths, visit www.skincancer.org.

Complete Services...

Total Indulgence

A hair raising experience we can fix!

Complete Hair Services • Manicures/Pedicures Facials/Microdermabrasion • Body Treatments/Massages Spa Packages • Men’s Salon & Spa Services

That Elegant Touch Salon and Day Spa 3090 Laura Lane, McKinney, Texas 75070 Tel: 972.542.2300 • www.thatet.com Monday: 9-3 • Tuesday-Thursday: 9-9 • Friday: 9-5 • Saturday: 9-5

Deborah Mitchell is a freelance writer in the North Texas area. www.mckinneywoman.com

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

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McKinney Performing Arts Center

calendar of events NIPPLES TO THE WIND ICI Productions

CRYSTAL GAYLE - The Chair, A Community Affair McKinney Main Street

Fri, Sept 8 • Sat, Sept 9 @ 8:00 pm • Sun, Sept 10 @ 2:00 pm Tickets: $25.00; groups of 10 or more $22.50 Info: 972-547-2650

Thurs, Oct 19 @ 6:30 pm Info: 972-547-2661

mholland@mckinneytexas.org

THE OAK RIDGE BOYS SideBar Entertainment

HAL HOLBROOK IN MARK TWAIN TONIGHT! SideBar Entertainment

Sun, Oct 22 @ 7:30 pm Tickets: Season tickets available August 1; Single tickets Sept 1, $50.00-$75.00 Info: 972-547-2650

www.sidebarent.com

Thurs, Sept 14 @ 7:30 pm Tickets: Season tickets available August 1; Single tickets August 15, $35.00 - $50.00 Info: 972-547-2650 or

www.sidebarent.com

AFTER SHOW RECEPTION with The Oak Ridge Boys Sun, Oct 22 @ 10:00 pm Tickets: $75.00 limited to 50 guests!

AFTER SHOW RECEPTION with Hal Holbrook Thurs, Sept 14 @ 10:00pm Tickets: $50.00 -limited to 50 guests!

MARK MCCRORY, Bass Soloist McKinney Musical Arts Society

,

Sat, Sept 16 @ 8:00 pm Tickets: $22.50; students with ID $7.50 Info: 972-547-2650

IN A SCOTCH HUMOR McKinney Kammergild Society Sun, Sept 17 @ 4:00 pm Tickets: $17.50 adults, $7.50 youth Info: 972-547-2650

MICHAEL PATILLA Guitar Music of Europe & South America

N E W L O C AT I O N

Fri, Sept 22 @ 8:00 pm Tickets: $17.50; students with ID and seniors $12.50 Info: 972-547-2650

STAND-UP COMEDY - PAUL VARGHESE from Last Comic Standing & Comedy Central

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

Sat, Sept 30 @ 8:00 pm Tickets: $16.50 Info: 972-547-2650

SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK Word of Mouth Productions Student Matinees Tue, Oct 24 • Thurs, Oct 26 @ 9:30 am & 12:30 pm Tickets: $5 Tickets only available at 972-547-2650.

SCHOOLHOUSE ROCK Word of Mouth Productions General Public Performance Sun, Oct 29 @ 2:00 pm Tickets: $15.00 adults, students; seniors $12.00; children under 12 yrs and groups of 10 or more $10.00 Info: 972-547-2650

www.womproductions.com

THE PHANTOM OF THE OPERA Silent Film Concert Series Fri, Oct 27 • Sat, Oct 28 @ 8 pm Tickets: $18.00, groups of 10 or more $16.00 Info: 972-547-2650

www.sidebarent.com

All the tickets can be purchased online at www.mckinneyperformingartscenter.tix.com.

A $1 facility fee will be added per ticket. Other fees may apply.

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Lake is located between Virginia Parkway and Ridge Road off Glen Oaks Drive.

Offered for $1,996,000 and located at 301 Kings Lake Drive is Casa Bellavita, an Italian style home which features approximately 6,953 square feet of living space, five bedrooms, five full baths and three half baths. Additional features include a wine tasting room with wet bar, wine cooler and racks, a gourmet kitchen with a huge, buffet size island, marble countertops and state-of-the-art stainless appliances, upscale wood floors and tile throughout, a media room and a luxurious pool & spa with a waterfall.

301 Kings Lake Drive

By Karen Link Ebby Halliday REALTORS karenlink@ebby.com

Located at 305 Kings Lake Drive and offered for $2,195,000 is Maison de Reves, a French style home.

This home features approximately 7,802 square feet of living space, five bedrooms, four full baths and three half baths. There also is a wine tasting room, a private master suite with a fireplace, marble countertops, a jetted tub and customized closets by California Closets, dual staircases, a gameroom with a wet bar, a media room and a fabulous Mediterranean style pool & spa featuring columns, waterfalls, special lighting and lush landscaping.

For more information on either of these dream homes, please call the Ebby McKinney office at 972-562-3969 or visit ebby.com to view the online photo galleries and to take virtual tours.

305 Kings Lake Drive

T

he 2006 WFAA Dream Homes are up for sale, and Ebby Halliday, REALTORS, who has represented the areas finest homes for over sixty years, is proud to have served as a sponsor of the dream home project and to be the exclusive listing agent for the homes. The dream home tour, which ran from July 13-30 was a huge success, with over 8,000 visitors, and all proceeds from the tours went to Texas Scottish Rite Hospital for Children, a cause Ebby has long supported.

“We were so honored to have been a part of the WFAA Dream Homes project this year,” said Ebby Halliday, Founder & Chairman of the Board at Ebby Halliday Realtors. “Our company has always been ‘big on little folks’ so we were especially pleased that all proceeds benefited the children at Texas Scottish Rite Hospital.”

Although worlds apart in style and design, the dream homes were built next door to each other in the gated Kings Lake development within Stonebridge Ranch in McKinney. Kings www.mckinneywoman.com

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

19

Jack-O-Lantern Of All Trades Putting Your Pumpkin to Good Use

By Wendy Burt

C

inderella used hers as a taxi. The headless horseman used his as a noggin. But it was Peter, Peter, Pumpkin Eater who seemed to put his pumpkin to best use.

Dating back to the Greek’s “pepon,” meaning “large melon,” pumpkins have a long-standing history of odd uses.

From “removing” freckles and “curing” snake bites, to the Native American’s more practical craft of weaving dried pumpkin into mats, the orange gourd has taken on many forms.

Today, the tradition continues, as the benefits of pumpkin are continually touted by dietitians, doctors and scientists.

Offering lots of taste for its considerably low-fat, low-calorie content, pumpkin is an excellent source of fiber, beta carotene and Vitamin A, and a good source of potassium.

Nutritional benefits include the promotion of bones and teeth; formation and maintenance of healthy skin, hair, and mucous membranes; increased resistance to respiratory infections; and treatment of many eye disorders. When applied externally, pumpkin can also aid in the treatment of acne, boils and open ulcers.

Of course, no one wants to eat chunks of fresh pumpkin for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Luckily, you don’t have to. Incorporating October’s most edible decoration can be as easy as pie ... or bread ... or muffins.

Sound too obvious? How about serving up a main course of pumpkin soufflé, accompanied by a side of warm pumpkin soup? And why not finish off your meal with a rich pumpkin cheesecake, chewy pumpkin bars or homemade pumpkin cookies?

For those of you who just hate to throw anything out, roast the seeds for a light snack and do as the Colonists, fill-

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

ing the insides of the pumpkin with milk, honey and spices, and baking in hot ashes, (okay - a conventional oven will work, too), to get the original pumpkin pie.

As you can see, the list goes on and on when it comes to making the most of your Halloween treasure. So settle into your favorite comfy chair with a cup of piping hot Curried Apple-Pumpkin Soup. You’ve got a month full of recipes to play with – enjoy it while you can. Turkey isn’t nearly so versatile.

Wendy Burt is a full-time, freelance writer with more than 500 published articles, essays, poems and stories.

Did you know that pumpkins ... ... are used as feed for animals? ... are 90% water? ... originated in Central America? ... are members of the vine crops family called cucurbits? ... range from less than a pound to more than 1,000 pounds? ... in the U.S. are most commonly the Connecticut field variety? ... are most available in October? (80%) ... have edible flowers? ... were used as an ingredient for the crust of pies, not the filling, in early colonial times?

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Low-fat Pumpkin Date Nut Muffins 1 cup bran cereal 1 cup apple juice 1 1/2 cup whole-wheat flour 1 tablespoon baking powder 1/2 cup brown sugar, packed 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1/4 cup chopped walnuts 1 tablespoon vegetable oil 2 egg whites 1 cup fresh pumpkin, boiled and puréed 1 cup chopped dates Preheat oven to 400 degrees. In small bowl, combine bran cereal and apple juice. In large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, brown sugar, pumpkin pie spice, and walnuts. Stir. Add oil, egg whites and pumpkin to cereal mixture.

Stir until well blended. Add cereal mixture to large mixing bowl. Stir until just blended. Add dates and stir. Spoon muffin mixture into 12 muffin tins that have been coated with vegetable oil spray. Bake for 18 minutes or until toothpick inserted in center is clean when removed. Makes 12 muffins.

Per muffin: 180 calories, 3.5 grams of fat (less that 0.5 grams saturated), 58 milligrams sodium, 0 cholesterol, 5.5 grams dietary fiber.

Real Pumpkin Pie 2 cups mashed (cooked) pumpkin 1 (12 oz.) can evaporated milk 2 eggs, beaten 3/4 cup packed brown sugar 1/2 teaspoon ground cinnamon 1/2 teaspoon ground ginger 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg 1/2 teaspoon salt 2-2/3 cups all-purpose flour pinch of salt 1 cup shortening 1/2 cup cold water Cut cleaned out pumpkin into chunks and boil in 1” of water. Reduce heat to low, cover, and simmer for 30 minutes or until tender. Drain, cool and remove www.mckinneywoman.com

peel. Return pumpkin to the saucepan and mash with a potato masher.

Drain well.

Pie crusts: Mix flour and salt. Cut shortening into flour, adding 1 tablespoon water to mixture at a time. Mix dough and repeat until dough is moist enough to hold together. On floured board, roll dough out to 1/8” thickness.

Place in pie pan.

In large bowl, beat pumpkin with evaporated milk, eggs, brown sugar, cinnamon, ginger, nutmeg, and salt.

Mix well. Pour into a prepared crust.

Bake 40 minutes at 400 degrees or until knife comes out clean about an inch from the crust. Serves 16.

Cozy Pumpkin Soup 2 2-lb pumpkins 2 large yellow onions, peeled and finely chopped 2 cloves garlic, peeled and finely chopped 2 tablespoons peanut oil 8 cups canned chicken broth 2 smoked ham hocks 2 pounds chicken thighs 1 pinch salt Peel pumpkins. Remove insides and cut into small cubes. In large pot, brown garlic and onions in peanut oil before adding chicken stock, chicken, ham hocks, and pumpkin. Cover. Cook for two hours. Serves 7-8.

Spiced Pumpkin Pudding 1 1/2 cups pureed (cooked) pumpkin 1/4 tsp. nutmeg 1 tsp. cinnamon 3 eggs 1 tsp. salt 1 cup half and half 1 tablespoon butter 2 tablespoons molasses 1/2 cup sugar Blend pumpkin, spices, molasses and sugar. In separate bowl, mix eggs, milk,

butter and salt. Cook second mixture in double boiler until it reaches a soft custard stage. Remove from heat and add pumpkin mixture. Spoon into six small baking dishes and set in a pan of hot water to bake for 40 minutes at 350 degrees. Serves 6.

Pumpkin Fudge 3 cups sugar 3/4 cup butter 2/3 cup (5 1/3 oz. can) evaporated milk 1/2 cup packed fresh pumpkin 1 teaspoon pumpkin pie spice 1 12 oz. package butterscotch chips 1 jar (7 oz.) marshmallow crème 1 teaspoon vanilla extract Butter a 13 x 9-inch pan. In a heavy saucepan, combine first five ingredients. Cook over medium-high heat.

Bring to a boil, and stir regularly for 15 minutes. Remove from heat and stir in remaining three ingredients. Pour into the buttered pan and spread evenly.

Pumpkin Pecan Bread 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour 2 tsp. baking soda 1 1/2 tsp. salt 2 tsp. cinnamon 2 tsp. nutmeg 3 cups sugar 4 eggs, beaten 2 cups of fresh pumpkin 1/2 cup water 1 cup vegetable oil 1 cup chopped pecans (optional) Preheat oven to 350 F. In large bowl, combine first six (dry) ingredients. Add eggs, water, oil and pumpkin. Stir until blended. Add nuts if desired. Pour into two 9” x 5” loaf pans. Bake for 1 hour.

Cool slightly and remove from pans to cool on rack.

Wendy Burt is the author of two women’s humor books: “Oh, Solo Mia! The Hip Chick’s Guide to Fun for One” and “Work It, Girl! 101 Tips for the Hip Working Chick.”

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

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Pilates An ancient practice still strong today

By Wendy Crooks

Born in Germany in 1880, Joseph Hubertus Pilates was a sick child with asthma and other childhood issues.

Small and weak, he was determined to become healthy.

He trained to be an accomplished diver, gymnast and boxer. In 1914, Pilates served as a nurse in England during WWI to many who had been struck with disease. Through his work, he developed a system of “string pulls” that were attached to bed springs in hospitals. Using this resistance training, he worked with his patients to build muscle and exercise. With the thousands who were dying from influenza, Pilates claimed not one of his “trainees” died.

He also claimed that this testified to the effectiveness of his newly developed exercise program.

While immigrating to the United States, Pilates met, and later married, Clara. The two moved to New York and opened a fitness studio which shared the same ad-

dress as the New York City Ballet. By the early 1960s, Joe and Clara had many New York dancers as clients.

By 1964 the New York Herald Tribune printed “in dance classes around the United States, hundreds of young students limber up daily with an exercise they know as a pilates, without knowing that the word has a capital P, and a living, right-breathing namesake.”

Pilates’ hospital bed contraption later evolved into what he named the Pilates Cadillac or the Trapeze Table.

His method of exercise he coined “Contrology” but the name never stuck and people just referred to it as pilates.

Joe and Clara seemed to plug away at their venture, training one person at a time. Before he died in 1967, at the age of 87, only two of Pilates’ students had opened up studios of their own. It wasn’t until the 70s that Pilates became the craze with the Hollywood elite. Since the media keeps superb tabs on the stars, Pilates began to get extensive world-wide coverage. Joseph Pilates once said, “I’m about 50 years ahead of my time.” He was right. Now more than 11 million Americans practice Pilates and more than 16,000 are teaching it.

In McKinney, Phyllis Parker of Pilates Etcetera is one

Pilates • Yoga • Fitness • a fully equipped studio

Phyllis E Parker

B.S., ACSM, ACE PHI & Power Pilates Certified

214-547-0066

Other Programs: Men’s Pilates • Programs for athletes •

www.pilatesetcetera.com

431 Stacy Rd #105 • Fairview, TX 75069

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

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of those capitalizing on this exercise phenomena. In the fitness industry for over 20 years, Phyllis has been teaching Pilates for six years now. With a bachelor’s degree in Exercise Science, Phyllis has always been interested in posture and body mechanics. She, like Joseph Pilates, knows exactly how this great exercise program can benefit the American public. “I wish I could have met the man because I think we would have had a lot in common. I believe that no matter what type of exercise you are doing, you need to be aware of posture.”

Pilates touts a plethora of benefits. From building great strength and muscle tone to lowering stress levels and building better posture, a Pilates’ routine offers full body conditioning. Although Pilates does help respiratory functions, it is not supposed to take the place of cardiovascular exercises.

There are two ways to practice Pilates: with a mat/floor exercises and with machines. Both types of Pilates offer a slow and gentle exercise with good posture.

Another perk of practicing Pilates is that it was designed for variety. With fewer repetitions

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of many different types of exercises rather than many repetitions of only a few, Pilates keeps most people from getting bored. Many quit their exercise plans simply because they no longer find it interesting.

Widely practiced by women, there is now growing support for how beneficial Pilates is for the men in our lives as well. Many men who exercise look tight from the outside but are missing something on the inside – flexibility.

Pilates helps men gain the flexibility that they need to help prevent injury in their overall workout routines, experience greater joint mobility, performance, balance and coordination. Many professional athletes are now embracing Pilates for those very reasons. Some argue that Pilates even improves sexual performance. Apparently men are taking notice of this new trend as there are now books, videos, websites and classes dedicated primarily to Pilates for Men.

Whether you’re interested in looking better, feeling better or both, Pilates can be a unique way to condition your body, tone your muscles, increase your flexibility and align your body thereby improving your quality of life. For more information on classes or programs in the McKinney area, contact Phyllis at Pilates Etcetera @ 214.383.9733, www.bootcamp4women.com or Fitness 4 Life Personal Training on Custer Road.

Wendy Crooks is a freelance writer who lives in Plano with her husband and four children.

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

www.mckinneywoman.com

See Ready for work? on page 29

www.mckinneywoman.com

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

25

Maybe you want to get out of the house.

Or perhaps you want to get more involved in the community. Or maybe you’ve had the sudden urge to do something crazy.

Whatever your reason for wanting to venture out into the depths of the unknown, good for you! Breaking free of your comfort zone is what personal growth is all about.

The good news is, you don’t need to check anyone’s schedule but your own. No waiting to hear back from friends, no begging your partner to get off the couch. It’s time for a solo adventure – and all you need is courage!

The Power of One 12 Solo Adventures for Women

By Wendy Burt

1

Join a sports team.

Whether it’s intramural volleyball or a company softball team, playing sports can help you not only stay in shape, but meet new people. Call your local Parks and Recreation division to ask what activities are available.

The McKinney Community Center offers a wide range of recreational and sports activities such as dance, pottery, music, basketball, volleyball, adult softball and flag football leagues.

For more information, call 972-547-7699.

2

Attend a wine tasting.

Many restaurants, wineries and vineyards offer free wine tastings in the hopes that you’ll become a fan. Call a local winery for a list of upcoming events.

D’Vine Wine in McKinney located at 101 N. Kentucky offers daily wine tastings. Visit www.dvinewinemckinney.com for a calendar of other special events or call 972-542-3030.

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

WineStyles in McKinney located at 3190 S. Central Expwy, Suite 545 offers wine tastings every Thursday from 7-9p.m.

Visit www.winestyles.net or call 972-548-9099.

Lone Star Wine Cellars located at 103 E. Virginia #104 offers daily wine tastings. Visit www.lonestarwinecellars.com for a calendar of other special events or call 972-547-9463.

3

Take a Mrs. Fix-It Class.

If you’ve been thinking about refinishing that old dresser or re-tiling your bathroom floor, consider taking a class from the pros. Places like Home Depot offer free seminars to would-be handymen and handywomen (and even handykids!) on weekends. It’s not only a great way to learn, but also to make new friends with similar interests.

Collin County Community College offers an array of self-help classes through their continuing education department. Visit ccccd.edu/ce or call 972.985.3750. www.mckinneywoman.com

4

Volunteer at your local animal shelter.

Animal lovers will be happy to learn that there’s a perfect volunteer opportunity for them at their local animal shelter. Most “pounds” are always in need of volunteers to play with, walk, or clean animals and their cages. Just be careful or you may have trouble going home alone at the end of the day!

The SPCA of McKinney located at 8411McKinney Ranch Pkwy is always in need of volunteers as well as supplies including newspaper, towels, sheets, bedding, dog toys and dog canned food. For more information visit www.spca.org or call 972562-7297.

5

Take an indoor SCUBA lesson.

Unless you’re lucky enough to be near a lake or coastline, you’ll have to check your local phone book for places that offer indoor lessons. Learning to SCUBA dive is fun, makes a good story, and gets you prepared for that Caribbean dream vacation – (whenever that might be!)

The Parks and Recreation department offers various aquatic lessons including scuba at the McKinney High School Natatorium located at 1400 Wilson Creek Drive. Call 972-547-7690 for more information.

6

Learn to play an instrument.

If you’ve always dreamed of strumming the guitar by moonlight or impressing the guests at your next cocktail party by breaking into a stunning rendition of Beethoven’s Fifth on a grand piano, now is your chance.

No more excuses about being too old, too busy, or too embarrassed. Find the instrument that calls out to you and sign up for a few lessons. Worst case scenario: you hate it and quit. You’re no worse off than before you tried. In fact, you’re better off - now you know what instrument you DON’T like. Move on to the drums! Music lessons are offered by: John Wynn’s McKinney Guitar Studio – 972-562-3993.

Margarita’s Piano and Voice Studio – 972-547-4015. www.mckinneywoman.com

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

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7

Go horseback riding.

You loved it as a kid, so what happened? Why not try your hand again at a local stable.

You can get a quick refresher or a beginner’s lesson before heading out for a day of riding. Be prepared to be sore the next day – but remind yourself that it was worth it.

Prospering Farm – 972-346-3236.

Stony Glen Stables – 214-724-6017.

Lucky 13 Stables – 972-562-0658.

8

Have a portrait of yourself made.

We’ve got more pictures of the kids and pets than we’ve got room for.

But, where are the pictures of Mom? Ladies, treat yourself to something special and indulge in an art piece of yourself! You will be reminded how beautiful you are.

Wendolin Mercado Photography offers Ladies Night Out sessions complete with makeup artist, wine and cheese 972-529-9223.

9

Take dance lessons.

You’re not exactly Ginger Rogers, but you’re no klutz either. Hone in on your inner rhythm by signing up for dance lessons. The variety of styles has changed drastically over the last decade. In most small cities, wannabe Rockettes can learn how to tango, hula, two-step, salsa, meringue – and even belly dance. Find the moves and level of fitness that work best for you and get your groove on!

Creative Dance Elements in McKinney offers adult tap, ballet, jazz, hip-hop and adult competition. Visit www.creativedanceelements.com or call 214-726-9003.

Studio 511 offers adult tap, jazz, ballet and hop-hop. Visit www.studio511.com or call 972-542-7373.

10

Attend an auction.

No matter what you like to collect, you’re bound to find something to suit your taste at an auction. Depending on the type of event, auction pieces can range from high-end art to outright junk. Ask in advance if the event is all antiques, a store buy-out, an estate sale, or just random pieces. Some places, like self-storage facilities, will sell the contents of a space when the renter fails to pay or aban-

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

dons the items. Ask if you can get a listing of the items – or do a walk-through – in advance. Who knows? You may find that perfect lamp for your end table – for less than the price of a light bulb.

11

Sign up for a tour of your hometown.

So you think you know you’re city, eh? Let’s see how much you really know about the mayoral scandal of 1891. Or what about the underground tunnels? The old jail?

Guess you’ve got a bit more to learn. Luckily, there are a few people that are willing to teach you. Just call your local Historical Society and ask about tours – walking, trolley, bicycle or otherwise. And if you really DO know as much as you think, maybe you can host the next tour!

Collin County Historical Society offers tours of the museum and presents several shows during the year. Visit www.collincountyhistory.org or call 972-542-9457 for more information.

Happy Trials Carriage Service allows you to explore the wonders of historic downtown McKinney in style. Visit www. happytrailscarriage.com or call 214-662-6705 for more information.

12

Take a cooking class.

Whether you’re known to your friends as the gourmet or known to the pizza boy by first name, you can stand to learn a thing or two from an expert.

Cooking classes are as varied as recipes; there are candy-making classes, gourmet classes, vegetarian cooking, catering tips, couples’ classes, and even singles’ classes. Find one that fits your interests and then surprise your friends with your new culinary creations.

Market Street in McKinney offers an array of cooking classes.

Call 972-548-5140 for more information.

Just a warning as you venture out on your “Me, Myself and I” dates: once your friends and family start seeing how much fun you’re having alone, you may have difficulty finding alone time. After all, EVERYONE is drawn to a woman with a sense of adventure.

Wendy Burt is the author of two women’s humor books: “Oh, Solo Mia! The Hip Chick’s Guide to Fun for One” and “Work It, Girl! 101 Tips for the Hip Working Chick.”

www.mckinneywoman.com

Deborah Mitchell is a freelance writer in the North Texas area.

Intimate Portrait Parties

by Wendolin Mercado

Let’s go girls!

“It was seriously the most fun I’ve ever had and the most beautiful I’ve ever felt.”

Kristy - 40 McKinney, TX

www.wendolin.com www.mckinneywoman.com

Grab a few girlfriends and treat yourself to an unforgettable photography experience.

Let Wendolin capture you as you’ve never seen yourself before!

Schedule your party today!

972-529-9223

mckinney, tx

September/October 2006 | McKinney Woman

29

Fall for Jackets this Season

By Lorie Fangio Is that a chill in the air? Anything less than 99 degrees seems cool after the blistering summer we’ve had. As the sweltering heat of the McKinney summer begins to fade, we bid farewell to the care free, relaxed feel of the season’s apparel. Soon the days will grow shorter, the evenings cooler and we will be reaching into our closets for something to keep us warm.

Olive Jacket - $137 Cream Tank - $20 Denim embellished skirt - $152 Outfit offered by Urban Allye

As the temperatures dip, we turn our attention to the many fall offerings and an exciting season of fashion. Few of us could afford to discard all of last years clothing, opting only for the newest looks of the season. With so many new styles and trends to choose from, deciding what you need to update your existing wardrobe can be confusing and overwhelming. The good news is that this season’s best looks can be summed up in one simple word.… JACKETS! Jackets are taking shape as the major player for this fall.

Whether casual, elegant, sporty or whimsical, this year’s jacket is a serious fashion piece. It has undergone many changes to create an ultra feminine feel even in menswear inspired styles. The extraordinary detail, refined seaming and unusual fasteners make these jackets almost a work of art.

Never before have there been more styles to choose from; including military inspired with gold toned buttons, mandarin collars and peplums, cropped swing styles with ¾ sleeves.

Mannish tailored jackets with nipped waists and lapels, equestrian inspired jackets boasting clean lines, elegant, short sleeved styles and the newest cocoon looks with lots of volumous fabric just to name a few.

Brown leather jacket - $199.95 Teal Top - $39.95 Camel Pant - $69.95 Outfit offered by PrimaDonna

Fabrication is a key aspect of this season’s hot new jacket and the choices are seemingly endless. Denim jackets will always be a staple but as long as denim jeans continue to be such and important element of today’s fashion, something different on top is a good plan. Some of the best fabrics this season will be the lush opulence of velvet and understated appeal of corduroy. Twill, tweeds, hound’s-tooth and other menswear fabrications are also important this season and enjoy a unique contrast when cropped and nipped to reveal feminine curves.

The newest colors for fall are something important to consider when making your jacket purchase. If you are buying just one, choose a neutral color that works well with other items in your wardrobe. Shades of stone, olive, and chocolate are always a safe bet. Cynthia Elliot, owner of her shop of the same name, on the downtown square says the strongest colors for fall will be rich reds, stunning purples and warm golden tones.

She says these smatterings of color will work nicely with neutral colored basics.

Layering is the key to making your jacket purchases go the distance for fall. Your choice for underneath can be as simple

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McKinney Woman | September/October 2006

www.mckinneywoman.com

as a basic fitted t-shirt for a classic understated look or build your outfit with several layers of color and texture for a more complex statement Add several chain necklaces for added drama . “The key to layering this season is a variety of textures” says Martha Farquharson, owner of Urban Allye. Her shop in the Eldorado Plaza shopping center offers a multitude of options for the layered look.

“A jacket is such a versatile piece” notes Donna Thomas, owner of PrimaDonna also located in the Eldorado Plaza shopping center. “You can easily dress them up with a skirt or nice trousers for the office or throw on a pair of smart embellished jeans for a night out on the town.”

Once you have selected your jackets, start working on the outfit. Play with color and texture. Start with a fresh white shirt, add a colorful sweater, tank or vest, top it with a jacket.

Add trousers and boots and you are ready for the office. To up the ante for a night out on the town, begin with a hip screen printed t-shirt add a scarf, your favorite jacket, the newest skinny jeans and look out! Notice how the mood of the outfit changes but the jacket is the same.

As the temperatures cool down, expand your wardrobe with a fashionable jacket or two. Jackets can be worn with anything so choose styles that flatter your figure and make it work with what you already own to create your personal style. Strong and versatile, jackets are a great investment for fall.

Lorie Fangio is a freelance writer who focuses women’s and children’s topics.

Teal Velvet Jacket – $126 Floral Shirt - $94 Black Denim Jean - $144 Outfit offered by Cynthia Elliot

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